Christmas 2011

Christmas was, honestly...not the same:( I had to work Christmas Eve and Christmas day was spent at my sister in laws place in Des Moines! This year Lance and I decided we'll get the kids mainly clothes and 2-3 presents since we do live in a small apartment with other people so there is hardly any room for toys. I know I shouldn't worry about all the "worldly" things but it made me a little sad that my kids didn't get as many gifts as they usually do past Christmas's. I know I'm just letting my pride get to me but I'm over it and besides, my boys are still happy as could be with what they got. Drey got what he wanted which was an Xbox 360 and Kinect and Zee got a bunch of Car toys, his favorite!
At our apartment, it didn't feel at all like Christmas was coming up...mostly because this year my in-laws decided not to put the tree up because the kids will most likely put it right back down. Lol I thought to myself, "ok, what about my boys...it's not fair to them." for a second a got a little emotional because it made me miss my family even more. I haven't been myself lately because I hate missing out on family activities or get togethers that we always do as a family. Missing out on watching my nieces and nephew grow up. Things like that...I just miss:(
On a good note, we did get to oovoo Elder Alo! We three way'd with my family so it was nice seeing everyone together. He is doing well and loving the mission field! At the same time we were watching my family do their white elephant gift exchange and that's when I got all teary eyed. My family didn't notice but I was feeling so down! Seeing them all have a good time, laughing at what everyone got...I wanted to be there enjoying Christmas with them.
Although I was a super Debbie downer, I can't thank my In laws enough for everything they've done! We did have a good dinner that day and I introduced the White Elephant game to them before the kids opened their gift! It was a success and hilarious too! We played it different so everyone had a limit of $1 or it can be something from your house, something creative. We had 18 ppl play so everyone has a gift. We all stood up in a circle and we sang "Love at Home" every time we say LOVE...we would pass it to the right and when it was finished we opened our gift we ended up with, one by one! The funniest was Stephens gift. It was in a big box but in it, was a can of Pikaki! We all had a good laugh at that. But it was fun and every one seemed to enjoy it as well.

So This season wasn't all that bad.

Next year...it's Christmas in UTAH!!

Mom

One thing that I always wished to have, growing up, was a close relationship with my Mom. You know the kind that you can tell her anything, even if it was something you did wrong, the kind of relationship when you can say, "My Mom is my BEST FRIEND." I'm sad that I didn't do anything about it when I was a teenager. Although my mom wasn't ever one to come up to me and talk about personal things, I could of stepped up to the plate and gone and talked to her. I was going through my journal (from my Jr. High to High school days) and I hated myself for writing so many posts about my Mother. Posts that said all the "bad" things that I didn't like about her, or what she did to make me mad.

I think out of all my siblings, even though they think I was always the spoiled one...I felt like my Mom pushed me the most. There was a time in my life where I had so many things going on. Some I wanted to do and the others, not so much. My Mom forced me to do it. My week was filled with school, piano lessons, singing lessons, guitar lessons, school basketball, club volleyball and church! I was always doing something. At times I would fight with my Mom because I wanted to quit piano, or I wanted to quit guitar...but I would get yelled at and would never win the conversation. I hated that I couldn't have a regular teenage life. I hated that my mother made me go to my basketball tournament instead of my sister, Nita's graduation. I hated that she made me sing and play the guitar in front of the whole polynesian community at flag week..there were so many things that I had on my mind..I don't think I ever sat down and thought about what I can do to have a better relationship with her.

Now that I am older I couldn't be more happier about her pushing me to do all these things! Of course I didn't succeed in guitar lol but I am grateful that she instilled in me to never quit! If it wasn't for her, I wouldn't know how to play the Piano, or play volleyball, basketball, and softball. All those times I wanted to quit doing all of it, my Mom wouldn't let me. As teenagers, we seem to think that our parents are the worst parents ever. When you grow up, you appreciate them more and realize they do it to help us, to prepare us, to keep us busy. I love my Mom so much! Even though still, today I wonder about the things that she does that I don't agree with but she is one of a kind...the best Grandma who adores my kids and sooo much more! 

I love you Mom!

I love my calling!

I love my calling! This I know is where I need to be right now. I feel the spirit so strong when I'm around these young women, (who really aren't much younger than me), who face such strong adversity in their lives, yet have strong testimonies of the gospel and live such virtuous lives. Sometimes I feel they are more an example to me than I am to them!
When I got called to be the beehive advisor, I was excited but scared and nervous at the same time. I have never taught a class before! That is why I know that my Heavenly Father is mindful of me. He knows that teaching is my weakness and that I am very shy when it comes to speaking in front of people but i can honestly say that, that weakness is becoming one of my strengths and I learn something new every week from it!

I am most grateful to be able to utilize my talents with these girls. My music especially. Music has always been a part of me but once again...I was always the shy one to share my talent! Growing up, I did a lot of singing for our church or for farewells, or preludes for sacrament, and most of the time, I got nervous. My hands would start to shake, and my voice will start to be "shaky" too (is that even a word? lol) I think because my Mom always forced it upon me...it was never something that I loved to do (other then singing to myself haha) but it was never my passion... Okkkay, I'm going off track...that calls for a different blog post lol So anyway, for our Young Women in Excellence, I volunteered to teach a music number for them. I found the perfect song that goes with our theme and I can't wait! to hear them sing it next week Wednesday! They sound so good!

 I am blessed to be apart of their lives and thankful to the other leaders I serve with who are great examples to me as well!

Mat Man

I picked Drey up from school today and heard some good things about him from his teacher. It's always nice to hear that your kids are doing well in school! So she told me that they were reading this book today for a good 10 minutes or so. Afterwards they had playing time. They have a choice to either play with blocks, painting, coloring, and so on. Ms. Kim said Drey went straight to the painting area and drew this:

She said he drew so many "Mat Man's" all over the classroom lol She was impressed with his ability to memorize things so quick and be able to draw/paint it on paper. It makes me so proud to see my son learning new things everyday and enjoying it at the same time. All the small and simple things matter the most to me. Like when I hear that he ate all his fruits (he hates fruits!), or that he was a good helper..things like that make me so happy. I'm so glad I made that choice to have him in preschool this year.

Elder Alo

My heart goes out to my little brother who is on his mission in Riverside, CA. I got teary eyed reading his email today. He loves the mission and I know he is not the same since he left...he is much more mature. He is more knowledgeable of the Gospel and I feel the love that he has for our Heavenly Father through his emails.
He's been having back pains lately and said that he's been going to the Chiropractor's office every other day to check on it. He's also been having chest pains most likely due to one lung being darker than the other. And that's not even all of it....I feel for my brother right now and I really hope his doctors appointment on Thursday goes well. That will determine if he will be able to stay or come back home so please keep him in your prayers!

We miss you Rex!

Thoughts

Something is bugging me.

My friend and I were talking about a situation that happened between another couple and how they argue and fight a lot. This couple is married with children and had gone through the Temple. She then says, "I don't want to go through the Temple if thats how it's going to be." Meaning, whats the point of going if the couple is still going to fight and argue..etc;

That's not the first time I heard it. Someone close to us told me the same thing when Lance and I were going through some tough times and said, "I can't believe it..you guys went through the Temple...this shouldn't be happening."

It's like marriage is supposed to be "picture perfect" after you get married or sealed in the Temple. I wish it were that way lol But that's what we strive for! I didn't go through the Temple to have a perfect marriage or a perfect family...I went through the temple to be with my husband and my kids for all time and ETERNITY. I went for many reasons but I don't see my self as being on a higher pedestal than those who haven't gone through.

I wish they could see what I see and feel what I feel when we go inside the Temple and ALL the wonderful blessings it brings to our family.

Families are Forever.

  

Last Nights Convo

Drey: Mommy, your the best mom in the whole world.
Me: Aww, thanks son!
Drey: I'm gonna get you a present.
Me: Ooo I like presents. What are you gonna get me?
Drey: Shoes! Red one's (then he pauses for a second)...with Diamonds on them! lol
Me: Aww thanks son, so when are you gonna get me them?
Drey: Oh! They're a hundred dollars
Me: haha Thats some expensive shoes...whispers to him, "tell Daddy" ok! haha

Then Zeland wants to hop in our conversation...
"Mommy you pretty....I'm pretty too!"

I went to bed with a smile on my face. I love these 2 little boys so much! They are growing way to fast!

Patience

A couple weeks ago I sat down with Dreysen teaching him how to write his first and last name by himself. At first I was very calm and reassuring, and within a matter of minutes, I found myself getting really frustrated with him. I was saying things like:

• Dreysen it is so easy!
• Pay attention!
• Do it like this!
• Look right here...RIGHT HERE!
• Hold the pen like THIS!

Ahhhh! haha I'm pretty sure it was an unpleasant experience for him. I made him do it over and over and over again. It took him at least a week or so to finally get it down. Everyday after school he knows the routine: Go in the room, take his shoes and back pack off and put them away, change clothes then he has to practice writing his name over and over again, which now, he really enjoys. He always draws pictures of himself and his brother and also his favorite, Batman lol

I felt like such a mean mom. I thought back to when my mother would always yell at me if I messed up in sports or what not, and it sucks! You loose the feeling of doing whatever it is that your doing.

Lately, I find myself losing my temper a lot and have a hard to with not raising my voice and using a kind tone. I tend to boil over really silly and unimportant things.

Being a Mother is a sure test of patience. If I can't learn it now, I never will.

I think that when I am really thinking about it, and really making an effort, it is so much easier to stay calm and rational. My kids are so wonderful. They are smart, funny, healthy, kind, tender and sensitive. I love them so much. They are helpful, and capable and I expect a lot out of them.

I've been thinking a lot today about what I can do to not get to the point of losing control and acting like a kid myself. I'm learning each and everyday and my Patience is definitely one I need to work on.

I love you Dreysen and Zeland!

Thick

I Read this story from a friend and fell in love with it! Hope you enjoy it as well!

A while back, at the entrance of a gym, there was a picture of a very thin and beautiful woman. The caption was,

"This summer, do you want to be a mermaid or a whale?"

The story goes, a woman (of clothing size unknown) answered the following way:

"Dear people, whales are always surrounded by friends (dolphins, seals & curious humans), they are sexually active and raise their children with great tenderness. They entertain like crazy with dolphins and eat lots of prawns. They swim all day and travel to fantastic places like Patagonia, the Barents Sea or the coral reefs of Polynesia. They sing incredibly well and sometimes even are on cds. They are impressive and dearly loved animals, which everyone defends and admires.

Mermaids do not exist.

But if they existed, they would line up to see a psychologist because of a problem of split personality: woman or firsh? They would have no sex life and could not bear children. Yes, they would be lovely, but lonely and sad. And, who wants a girl that smells like fish by his side?

Without a doubt, I'd rather be a whale.

At a time when the media tells us that only thin is beautiful, I prefer to eat ice cream with my kids, to have dinner with my husband, to eat and drink and have fun with my friends. We women, we gain weight because we accumulate so much wisdom and knowledge that there isn't enough space in our heads, and it spreads all over our bodies. We are not fat, we are greatly cultivated. Every time I see my curves in the mirror, I tell myself: "How amazing am I?!"

As a bigger woman myself, I can't lie and say that I've never thought of being a size 2 or even better, my pre-pregnancy weight, 140 lbs. I've always been so self conscious about my weight and how I look. Lately, I haven't been too hard on myself. I've come to accept my beautiful body, my curves, my "thunder" thighs lol and much more. Of course I have those days where I get fed up but I am PROUD to say that I love my body! And I'm proud to say that I have a husband who loves ALL of me and doesn't judge the way I look.

All that matters is, I'm HAPPY, HEALTHY, have two beautiful boys and a husband...what more can I ask for?

Yay for THICK girls:) ha!

Siblings

First time in YEARS that we have been together at church. Kudo's to my 2 oldest brothers for making it to church 2 weeks straight! haha I love you guys!

The Yellow Bus

I'm so proud of Dreysen! He is doing so well with his school. No complaints when I tell him to go to bed at 9 pm or even when I wake him up at 7:30 am. Hallelujah! I thought I was going to have a hard time with him since he usually does sleep late and wake up around 10-11 in the morning lol

Anyway, I picked him up from school today and he had this sad look on his face and said to me, "Mommy? Why can't I take the bus with my friends?" I felt bad for him because everyone in his class takes the bus BUT him and pretty sure all the adults look at me like I'm some overprotective mom who doesn't trust the bus system and doesn't want to let him "grow up". lol Is it just me or am I just worrying too much that something might happen to him? That he might get on the wrong bus? or get off on the wrong stop? Even though there is an adult with them and name tags on their backpacks saying which bus they're on. I just want to be on the safe side. Me personally, I don't want him to grow up. Eventually I'll have to get over this phase but for now, I'll stick to self transportation!

Forget me not

I really enjoyed the Relief Society Conference this past Saturday. I didn't think I was going to watch it because I got home around 5 pm and my in laws already left to the chapel to watch the broadcast but luckily, we had the byu channel so I sat comfortably on the couch with my blanket, notepad and pen, to take notes.

Each talk was inspiring and so uplifting! My favorite, as always, was Dieter F. Uchtdorf's talk on the "Five Forget me Not's." I didn't even know there was a flower with that kind of name lol but his talk could not have come at a more appropriate time for me, personally. Our family has been experiencing some difficult trials over the past month, and I have definitely struggled with discourage. 

"...I was never forgotten, and I know something else...neither are you. You are not forgotten. Where ever you are, whatever the circumstances may be, you are not forgotten. No matter how dark your days may seem, no matter how insignificant you may feel, no matter how overshadowed you think you may be, your Heavenly Father has not forgotten you. In fact, he loves you with an infinite love."

As human beings, I think we've all felt "forgotten" at certain points in our lives. In a world where it is easy to feel like just a number, I am so thankful that our Heavenly Father knows us and does not forget us! I literally cried when he mentioned that quote. It was like having my own personal face to face conversation with him and he was speaking directly to me. He always has such a way of making you feel important and loved.

Hold on to the simple joys and don't wast time looking for the "golden ticket" for you have it in your hand now, all it takes is that realization. I LOVED that! Focus on the WHY not the how/what! Loved that as well! I can't say enough wonderful things about this conference! I am a new Woman :) Excited for this weekend to be more spiritually fed.

I hate you Tacoma!

Ok, not really but seriously, why do all the jobs have to be in every other city but Tacoma? Maybe I'm just not looking in the right place or what but it's getting frustrating. There have been some retail jobs but I dont really feel like doing that again. More so looking towards doing clerical work in an office or something.
Sometimes I just feel like giving up. It gets tiring filling out applications online, waking up every morning just to check the job boards, hoping that someone will call you back.

Situations like this gives me headaches! I hate thinking of the past of the should of, could of, would of...because it's over and done with. Mainly about my schooling.

Mood: Trying to find Motivation!

Elder Alo

The youngest of our family! I'm so proud of my little brother. I got to spend so much time with him while we were in Utah, it was great! It's crazy looking back when we were younger. It was always him and I fighting, arguing etc; We both would do anything just to get the other in trouble. Of course him being the youngest, I got the blame for everything! lol I miss him a lot! I just read an email from him (his 1st email in the MTC) and it made me all teary eyed! He said the 3rd day there he got really homesick, which is surprising! He was so anxious to get out and he told everyone he's not gonna be homesick. He's always been so independent so I didn't really expect that from him. I think it's because he said his companion is giving him a hard time. He says they're total opposites from each other but I know that our Heavenly Father gave him that companion for a reason. It's because anyone who knows Rex, knows that he is very impatient! Only because he is a perfectionist! Every thing has to be on time, organized and done at a matter of time. He's always been like that.

My brother has already blessed our family in many ways! He's brought our family closer together than ever before. Now when I'm talking about my family, I mean my mom's side. Her brothers/sisters, their kids and so forth! Our Tafili side. I can't even remember the last time we all had a get together as a family because there has been so much tension between everyone. Everyone put everything aside because of the love we had for Rex! We spent a lot of time together as a family just laughing, reminiscing on old times, talking about our grandpa...

Rex's Sunday program was...Breathtaking! I'm so serious when I say that because the spirit was so strong. He did an awesome job on his farewell talk. Very well prepared and the musical numbers were uplifting! His mission prep teacher audio recorded the whole program so we were very grateful for that. When I got back home from Utah, I had my itunes player on shuffle, cleaning and  listening to some beyonce, adele & brian mcknight then Rex's program played. Once again my emotional self got teary eyed listening to his talk:( Not only that but my little cousins, Jb & kayleens musical number singing "As a Lamb to the Slaughter." One of my favorite songs! Just listen to the words. It tells the story of Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum who sacraficed so much to restore this wonderful gospel.

"As a Lamb to the Slaughter

I willingly go

and I for my Father

His strength feels my soul

I live for my Savior

And I'll die for him too."

Beautiful isn't it! Makes me cry everytime.

I miss you Rex and I know that our Heavenly Father is watching over you! 

Return with Honor. I know you will!

My advice to you: Download the original version by Jimmy Westbrook and Dan Truman! You'll love it!
http://youtu.be/VmU-WRt_5t4

Our little Preschooler!

I'm still in awe that I have a child who is in school already! My how time goes by so fast! Since we've been in Utah pretty much all summer, I couldn't wait to come back to WA and get everything settled for preschool. Drey talked about it all summer and now its finally here!

We took him school shopping which was very exciting being that Dreysen is our first child to go to school but I think he was more excited to pick out his backpack! haha! It was even on sale for $9 when the original price was $27! Can't beat that! Afterwards, we took the kids for lunch and headed back home. 

Before we were getting ready for bed, I asked Lance if he could give Drey a blessing for school. I know its just preschool but looking back at my childhood, my Dad always gave us blessing the night before our first day of school, so I wanted to do the same with my kids. Since Lance got his priesthood, he has only giving a blessing once, and that was for me when I got ill. So he kind of sat on the bed for a while, probably thinking things through his head...what he's gonna say, how he's gonna say it...just so he does everything right since it has been a while. When he laid his hands on Dreys head, I couldn't hold back my tears. I was crying like a baby! At that moment I realized how blessed and thankful I am to have a priesthood holder in our family! I peeked my eye's open and saw how reverent and still both Dreysen and Zee were. Both folding their arms...closing their eyes...It was amazing! Usually during prayer they are often playing with their fingers, making noices etc; but this time was different. I wish they could be like that during sacrament! haha but anyway, This is something I would like to do every year with all our kids.

The next morning I woke Drey up around 7:15 am and he didn't complain one bit! I thought I'd have a hard time waking him up that early since he usually sleeps til 10 am lol but he did awesome. Before we left he kept telling me, "mommy! Don't wake up Zee because school is for big boys, not babies!" haha I told him that the spotlight is all on him today. I told him that because we usually always take Zee with us everywhere we go and Drey stays behind with the grandparents so it was funny when he mentioned that. 

His first day was great! Knowing Drey he is the curious type, very energetic and can't keep still! He kept wanting to go to different areas of the room, asking whats this, whats that. You know what typical young boys would do. 

He ended up not staying for the whole day since some of his paperwork weren't finished from his doctor. They needed an Epi pen for him just in case he gets an allergic reaction to peanuts (hopefully that won't be the case!) so we left to the doctors to fix that and he got to go back the next day!

 I'm truly grateful to our HF for blessing me with 2 amazing little boys who keep me busy everyday! And most of all, grateful that they are healthy and strong! I am excited for whats to come for Dreysen. He is going to learn so much more and yet this is only the beginning! Proud momma here!!!

Stand by

My experience flying standby was completely horrible. I was so frustrated, I cried talking to my husband over the phone telling him how angry and upset I was, and I just wanted to go home. My dad reassured me that we'll be ok, that the flights were wide open, so I agreed to take it.
Our flight was scheduled to depart at 2:50 pm and when I asked the lady at the desk how the flight looked for standby passengers, she said it was completely sold out. I was ok at the time because I knew if we didn't make it, we can just go back home and try the next flight. But lucky enough there were 2 seats open for us. Drey was sitting 2 rows in front of Zee and I so I had asked the lady sitting by me if its ok to switch and she was nice enough to do so.
We had to fly to Long Beach first then catch a flight to Salt Lake since Jet blue doesn't fly straight from Sea to SLC. Anyway, the flight was about 2 hours long and the boys did great. What I was thinking that was going to happen, like any other connecting flight to another state...I thought they would hold my bags til the next flight out to SL which wasn't until 8:00. Little did I know, since we were on standby, We had to go to baggage claim and get our luggage then go back out to the ticket stand to check in. This is where my frustration began. I had two big suitcases, One stroller, 2 kids and there I was all by myself...with no help. I called Lance and starting crying, wishing that he was there with me. I had to pull myself together so I stuffed everything I could on the stroller while pushing one luggage and poor Drey had to push the other suitcase.

It only gets worse from there. I go to check in and the lady tells me that I'm not even on the 8:00 pm flight to Salt Lake City. I broke down. I wish I would of just stayed home in Washington. I felt so bad for my kids because I started to put my frustration and anger towards them, esp Dreysen, being the oldest. Drey kept asking me all these questions about his surroundings and I kept yelling at him telling him to stand still and behave. I got so angry at myself. Drey and Zee didn't deserve that. So I held them for a good minute or two then apologized to them. We got back in line, went to different representative from the 1st one who told us we weren't checked in and the lady had told us that the flight we were scheduled for was at 7:50 the next morning. She was able to switch it for the one that was leaving that night. We had to check our bags in again, go through security AGAIN! and wait for another 4-5 hours. We didn't get on that flight so they rolled us over to the next morning. They said there were 19 seats open so we should be able to get on.

There was no way I was gonna spend the night there at the airport so I called my cousins who live down the street to come and get us. They were actually leaving on the same flight the next morning so we were going to just catch a ride with them. We stopped by Tams to get something to eat, got home, showered the boys then knocked out. Because we were on standby, the kids and I had to wake up at 4 am and leave at 4:30 to get to the airport.

When we got to check out, I asked how the flight looked and the rep stated that there were 16 seats open, 50 people on standby and I was at the bottom of the list, #48. We didn't have a chance getting on any flights to SL that day. I called up my parents, once again crying...I would of been ok, if it was just me, but I had the kids. Thats what made everything so hard. I knew the customer rep even felt bad for me, but there was nothing she could do. My mom kept telling me to just try the next flight, but that wasn't til 2:00 pm and that was the last flight for that day. I couldn't call my cousins who were close by because like I mentioned earlier, they were leaving for UT as well.
We checked our bags in anyway, and crossed our fingers that we'll get on that flight. My dad called an hour later and said he'll just pay the one way ticket for Drey and I. (zee was free) I was so relieved and I didn't have to stress about anything. Hallelujah! haha I was so happy.

That was the first time using buddy passes for the kids and I and sure is the LAST time I'm ever doing that. I know my dad didn't mean for any of that to happen since he was the one who decided to get buddy passes...The kids were so happy to see their grandparents and the rest of the family. We spent the whole day swimming, sleeping, eating and ended the night with my moms side of the family having dance practice for the wedding on Saturday.

We are so happy to be back here in UTAH and are enjoying every second of it.

I thank my Heavenly Father for his guidance and protection for bring us to UTAH safely. It may not have been a smooth trip but we made it here, safe...thats all that matters:) and also to my wonderful husband who calmed me down over the phone with his words of encouragement. I love you and miss you.

Father's Day

Ok so I know Fathers Day was last week but I started typing up this post for my husband then got distracted. Thank goodness blogger saves them when you exit out. Anyway, better late than never.

To my wonderful husband. I love you

From the moment I met you, I knew you were fun, energetic, so attractive, and made me weak at the knees. Weeks went by, months went by, and I learned that you were caring, sensitive, sweet, funny, and we learned we were in love with each other. More months went by and I learned about your work ethic, your hobbies, your talents, your dreams, and your great perspective on life. I have been so lucky to know you, to be your partner, and your wife. From this moment, you have not lost any of the characteristics that I fell in love with, you just keep adding to the list of reasons why I love you. You are a great provider, protector, father, and husband. I could not be more happy about the person I chose to be with forever...for ETERNITY. I could not be more pleased about the person I chose to be the father of our children. Happy Father's Day! [it's everyday]

The Unexpected

All day today I've been thinking about a particular subject that I brought up to Lance earlier when we were on our way to church. The question was, "If anything ever happened to us and we passed...Who will take care of our kids?" I've put a lot of thought into it and feel that it isn't a subject to be taken lightly. Just thinking about it terrifies me! I can't imagine being with out my kids..let alone...my kids being with out us.

I hope and pray everyday that my family may be safe and protected where ever we go, but just like the tsunami/earthquake in Japan...no one expected it! Disasters happen inevitably and no one can predict the future!

Lance was driving when I asked him the question and he seemed hesitant to answer. So I told him what I felt. My first choice would be my parents! Now that I've had this whole day to think of it...I don't even know anymore! But when I told him, he got offended and asked why not his parents? This conversation wasn't going the way I wanted it to! lol It's not anything personal towards his family. But at the time, I was just thinking my parents because....well they raised me! I know my parents better than anyone else and I want whats best for my kids. I want someone who I can trust, who will give my kids a good life. Not that Lances parents can't do the same. Both Lance and my parents love our son's so much, it's hard to make this kind of decision. I've thought of how old each would be when my boys are in their teenage years and of course if they are too old, they wouldn't be able to give them their undivided attention.

I've thought of my sisters who I know would care and love for my kids. Especially Pearl who doesn't have kids yet. Nita already has 2 kids and 1 on the way...

I have 3 amazing brothers! My two oldest brothers are both financially stable, one has a son who lives with his mom and the other doesn't have any kids. I just can't see my kids staying with them though. Rex, my youngest brother, is so good with the kids. He is still so young though.

Lance has siblings as well, that I've thought about. His brother Ben and sis Kalani have come to mind.

Geez, this is not easy! Especially because my family lives in Utah and his in Washington. There are so many pro's and con's about everyone... I hope Lance and I will be able to come to an agreement and talk about this soon so when we do, we can look into doing our will just to be on the safe side.

What are your thoughts?? Have you ever thought about this question?

Indecisive

I hate not having my kids around. Especially if they're gone for a couple days or more. When Lances parents used to come get Dreysen to take him to Washington, he stayed for 3 weeks and it seemed like the longest 3 weeks ever. I missed him. Zee was supposed to stay with them as well but he was still a baby, I had to have at least one of my kids around lol The house was so quiet without Drey and at night, I would get all emotional thinking about him.
Anyway, I'm leaving back to Washington tomorrow morning and Dreysen is staying for 2 1/2 weeks. Lance and I will be driving back down the last week of this month. I want him to spend as much time with my family since we are no longer within driving distance from them but what I'm so indecisive about is whether or not I should leave my baby, Zeland. I can't make up my mind. I'll say he's staying, and the next day he's coming back with me lol My husband is getting so irritated that I keep changing my mind haha I put his name on my ticket just in case since he's free but the downside to that is, my flight is at 7 am...depart to Arizona, wait there 2 hours then head out to Seattle! I'm not even sure if I want him to go through all of that..let alone, I DONT want to go through having to carry him, dealing with his fussiness and carrying bags all at the same time lol My decision right now is to leave him but who knows, it might change tomorrow morning before I leave to the airport. I just know he's going to cry when he notices that I'm not around. He's at that age where he's attached to me and wants no one else but ME. I dont know what to do. It'd be nice to have some alone time with my husband but at the same time, I know if I do leave both of them, by Monday I'm gonna tell Lance, "I should of taken him with me." lol
Well, we'll see what happens:)

American Idol!

This year has such amazing talent! My favorites so far are...

 

Pia Toscano- Pia has just made herself known as the newest great diva of our times. I cannot be more impressed. There is nothing this woman cannot sing. She is a joy to hear and watch. I loved her version of Alicia Keys-Doesn't mean anything. She gives me the chills:)

Haley Reinhart- I love her voice. It's so unique! When she performed Alicia Keys-fallin, she sort of reminded me of Mariah Carey with the way she does her hands lol



Scott McCreery- I LOVE ME SOME COUNTRY! thats all I gotta say. haha

Failed

Today was quite interesting. I've been looking for a job for a couple weeks now and I got a call back from Regence Health Care here in Tacoma. They wanted me to come in and take assessment tests and if I passed, I'll go onto an interview. So there were 3 tests: Math, Typing and a customer service video test. I knew for sure I would pass the typing and video test...the math, not so much.
Just thinking about my last jobs...every time I got a call back, I usually did well in the interviews and got the job so I was pretty confident about this one.
The math test was first. I was thinking it'll be multiple choice but I thought wrong. lol When he gave me the test I knew I was going to fail it! It was story problems and a bunch of percentages and fractions. I gave my paper to one of the guys in the HR and he starts to correct it. When his eyes reached the middle of the paper, he starts nodding his head and says "You didn't pass it so I'm going to excuse you but you do have a chance to apply for other jobs in the company" haha It's all good though. I pretty much laughed about it when I got in the car.
Since I didn't pass the math test, I wasn't able to do the typing or video one. Sucks! I was hoping that if they saw my typing test they'll be amazed at my score and just bypass my math test haha

Math was always my worst subject! lol I knew I should of paid more attention in school ;)

Play Date

We are slowly but surely starting to love Washington. We have met some great friends who share the same interests as us and also have kids who are the same age as Dreysen and Zeland. Thats a plus!
Some of us girls from the ward got together last Thursday and met at the Odssey so the kids could play. Some of the other kids couldn't make it because they were sick but there is always next time. Anyway, they had so much fun. Afterwards we took them to Mc Donalds...they all sat on their own little table while us mom's were just chatting away. Can't wait for our next play date.

Left: Egesi, Drey & Zee

Right: Max, Leila & Tarina 

So much for resolutions...

For the past 3 years since I've had Dreysen, Losing weight was always #1 on new years resolutions and the past 3 years, I've failed to even TRY to attempt to lose what I used to call my "baby fat" has now turned into just fat, cellulite, saggy etc; haha ok, not so much of the saggy part haha but you get the point. It's kind of depressing that I let my weight climb so high. I've tried dieting such as the lemon diet that Beyonce did...I lasted about 6 days of no eating, just drinking the lemon mix and I failed when Lance wanted to go to chili's and I was so tempted to eat a chocolate molten. I tried hydroxycut and I got really sick from it...it's hard. I tend to blame things on the way I grew up, we never ate healthy and just always making excuses for everything. When I was younger my weight was never a problem since I was always active playing sports but now I blame myself. I can't find the courage or will power to do anything.
I was thinking about doing the HCG diet since I've heard a lot of good results that come out of it but eating 500 calories a day for 26 days...I don't think I'll be able to survive that. Plus I don't really want to spend money on something that will just go to waste. I love food so I've come up with a plan.

I'm starting off slow!

Cutting down carbs
No soda (I've been doing good with that)
no drive thru's to mcdonalds
cut down my portions
drink a lot of water
and work out as much as I can. Even if it's twice a week or even once. It's a start!

Wish me Luck!

Trip to the ER

Trips to the ER are no fun! Zeland hardly ever gets sick so it was unusual that it was his turn this time rather than his older brother. This morning he was perfectly fine. We woke up, they ate pancakes for breakfast then they watched a little bit of t.v. and Zee was as normal as he is on any other day. 

Today was actually different since I finally decided to stop being lazy and do something fun and crafty with the boys. lol We cut and drew different kinds of shapes and I let them color it afterwards. Drey was already familiar with some of the shapes so it was fun seeing him teach his little brother how to say "circle" or "square." We did other stuff like color and trace their hands but they got pretty bored with that and started playing with their toys. 

It was around 8 pm when Zee started vomiting everything he ate and within 3 hours, He threw up at least 5 times. Checked his temperature and that was at 96. I waited for at least another hour because I would hate to go to the ER and all the doctor says is to give them plenty of fluids, which I could of done at home instead of waste my gas and $50 copay! lol But we took him in. He threw up 3 more times just in the waiting area and another in the room they put us in. I hated seeing him like this. He was snuggled in my arms the whole time then I get a call from Dreysen who was at home. He called to say that he missed me and he wanted Zee and I to come home. I was in my "proud mommy" moment thinking to myself how blessed I am to have to precious boys who depend on me to love & take care of them. I started laughing after Drey says, "I'm sick too! I go doctor" all because Zee was sick he wanted to be sick too! lol

Anyway, long story short, They needed to get blood work and they poked him on both forearms and couldn't get blood until the 4th try. I was already irritated with the doctor because my poor son his crying his eye's out while they poke him for nothing! I know it's to be expected that drawing blood isn't always going to be successful on your 1st try, but come on...4 times! 

He is doing a lot better. He threw up again when we got home but he should be fine once we get his prescription tomorrow morning.

It's getting late, Lance just got home from work so I'm hittin' the sheets! Night:)

It's a family thang!

T A F I L I

I love my Tafili side! For as long as I can remember, we have all been so close! One thing that I love about my family is how much talent each individual has. Whenever there was a wedding, funeral, party, or any other type of event...we would always get together, some would sing, the others would dance...but that was when we were a lot younger. Those were the best memories.

Can I just brag for a little bit and say that I have an ULTIMATE, amazing...wonderful family?!? haha
I wanted to share a couple video's of some amazing talents in our family...these are all my First cousins on my mom's side so I hope you all enjoy:)

Dont forget to pause the music player on your right--->


JB Ah-fua
Simply Amazing! I could listen to B sing everyday and not get sick of it. My favorite is when he sings church music. It is so calming and always uplifting! Love you B! Dont forget to check out his group 2/27 on facebook!

Kayleen Leung-Wo
Ugh! Isn't she just drop dead gorgeous! Kay has grown up into a beautiful young woman with an amazing voice! I remember when she was younger....Singing and eating Saimini was all she did! lol

EJ Mulitalo
Now EJ just surprises me with how good he is! I had no idea that he could sing until...I think 2 years ago! Him and his other 2 siblings always came around when they were younger until their parents split up. (Their dad is my mom's younger brother, Ely) After that we never really saw them that much so I was pretty much amazed when I started seeing his videos on youtube! He is truly an inspiration!

Celestine Ah-Fua
Another surprise! Hello Lacey! I didn't know you could sing too?? lol Everyone is growing up so fast!

(Click on link to go to video)

Tilly & JB singing at Carla's Quince

(This was when I was prego with Zeland. We sang "This I promise you" in spanish. haha We tried our best and I think singing that song wasn't the best Idea since the majority of the people there were Mexican! lol They were probably thinking..."wth are we sayin?" haha we tried our best.

Hopefully our next get together, I can get more recordings of everyone else. 

vent session lol

I love my calling in the Young Women...as if I haven't mentioned that already. lol I love that I get to plan out activities for the girls and be able to get to know them better! We had mutual today and we decided to catch up on their personal progress. The theme for the night was IHOP "important hour of progress." while working on their personal progress, they had pancakes and OJ, just like being at ihop. Most of them didn't bring their books so we decided to let the girls make their own pancakes and serve it to each other so they can pass off on one of their projects. The leaders this year are awesome! We've come up with some great ideas for the next 3 months and I'm sure the girls will love them.

ok...venting time! lol It's kind of hard to write about something that you hope won't hurt someone's feelings or offend anyone. I just hate being misunderstood period! I've been told that I'm TOO nice, that I can never say no to anyone. Makes it look like its bad or something. but thats just me. I think I get if from my Dad because he is the same way. I know when to say "no" to someone lol I dont think it's just being misunderstood, there's a lot more too it. For example...Volleyball. I play because I enjoy it...because it's my time away for myself to have fun rather than being at home with the kids. I love being with my boys without a doubt, but we all need some ME time to ourselves and I like to play sports. But I get mistaken for being a bad mother for leaving my kids....I would understand if I played 4x a week, but at the most its 2. Am I wrong for thinking this way? 

There's so much more that I don't want to put on here but I'm starting to regret moving here to Washington. Ok, I know it's out of anger that I just said that but I miss my family! I miss my friends and most importantly I miss my parents. I miss their guidance & advice that they gave Lance and I, the way they would always bring our family together and we would just laugh and enjoy each other's company. I miss get-to-together's with my extended family and my nieces and nephews:(

I hope I didn't confuse any of you with my little vent session. lol I didn't go into too much detail with that haha

But good news is...my parents come back from Samoa the end of this month and are planning to drive up here to pick the kids up for 2 weeks. They want to spend as much time with them before they move to Samoa. I really hope they don't though (that calls for another blog post lol). but anyway, 2 weeks is a bit too long, so maybe I'll take a little vaca with them! haha we'll see! 

Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood:)

Today was great! I thought I would hate getting up early since church starts at 9 am now, but it wasn't that bad after all. Even though we woke up a little late, we still managed to get to church on time. My boys seemed to be more calm. When church used to be at 1, that was always around Zelands nap time so he would be fussy the whole day...Drey on the other hand, never takes naps. He is my little energizer bunny! Hyper 24-7! lol

 I need to be a bit more organized. My goal for every Saturday is to pick out our church clothes for the next day, pack the kids bags, make sure they have their church shoes & pack snacks and juice for Drey & Zee. I'll do it once in a while and it makes my Sundays so much easier, but other days when I don't, I'm not happy. lol I yell at Lance for not helping me, I get frustrated and sometimes, I'll not even want to go to church because I'm so burnt out from trying to get everything together. Today, everything went well, till we got to the chapel and I realized I left the kids bag at home. Good thing there were extra diapers in the car so I called Lance to stop by the store and get some bananas and juice for the boys. Zee wasn't too happy in sacrament. He kept looking in my bag since he knows thats where the food is so I took him out and we went into one of the rooms and played on the piano till daddy came. 

The spirit was so strong today in our YW class. I enjoyed listening to the testimonies that were given, especially from some of the inactive girls and loved the lesson that was taught on the true meaning of the YW theme by Sister Leavai. I am forever grateful to have this calling in the young women. I remember when I first got called to be the Secretary and how excited I was and happy that I had the "easy" job but I guess I spoke to soon...couple weeks later I got called to be the Beehive Advisor. Oh how I felt so overwhelmed and inadequate when I received it. Being the Advisor meant that I would teach every Sunday except for when they combine. I haven't taught a lesson to a class EVER and next week will be my first. I know I'm going to be nervous but the Lord knows my weaknesses and I know they will turn into my Strengths:) The Young Women program has been such a wonderful influence in my life and I am definitely a better woman for having this calling.

Anyway, I haven't done a recent update on the kids so here it is:

Zeland- 17 months

-He walks like a pro now!

-Still eats everything! Today I caught him going through the new package of toilet paper we bought and he was eating it. lol The other day, he got into my make up, specifically my eye shadow...and ate that too! haha A little weird, but a cute kinda weird:) lol

-He has an attitude! He'll yell out STOP if he doesn't like what your doing, he'll then...scratch you, maybe throw in a little punch and run a way if he has something that you want. lol

-Loves watching movies:)

-He's awesome with having his NAP time everyday around 1-2pm.

-Picky eater!! He spits everything out just for fun;)

-He likes to pull the switch off of the computer when someone uses it and always turns the tv off when the boys are playing video games...I know it's just to annoy them! lol

-He's my little cuddler:)

-He can now say ALEX, stop, mama, Sasa, chicken lol, and he points to everything he wants

Dreysen-3 yrs

-Starts Head Start this year!!:( I'm so excited for him...I know he'll love it. He's just like his dad...my little social butterfly:) He gets a long with everyone!

-He knows how to identify 4 shapes. Triangle, Square, Circle, Octagon! lol

-He catches onto music so quickly! I swear if he listened to a song twice he'll memorize the whole thing! Current favorite songs:

*Pretty girl rock lol He repeats "my name is kerry, I'm so very..."

*Grenade by Bruno Mars

*Dynamite by ??

*Teach me how to dougie!

- He knows how to navigate the computer! I caught him on youtube one time and I have no clue how he got on there...then, couple minutes later, saw him on the Halo website lol

Next time I'll have to watch him and see what he does because he even knows how to click on Start>accessories>games>Solitare haha

-He is so smart!!



Here's something I don't get...no matter how much BLUE or "boy clothes" my boys have on, they still get mistaken for GIRLS? lol wth! random thought:) 

Happy New Years! 2011

Is it already a new year? 2010 went by so fast. This year was quite different than the past new years eves. Usually we'll go to a ward dance or celebrate it at our home while playing games and enjoying ourselves but this year, our stake reserved the YMCA which is like a rec center, from 8pm-12am. It was packed! We got there and ate hot dogs, chips and cookies, afterwards we headed straight to the courts. Pearl and I played at least 3 games of volleyball, while Marjorie, Ruta & the kids went swimming. We ended up going swimming the last hour before they closed up the pools. It was too much fun and I'm glad the kids enjoyed the swimming pool. Funny thing is...we forgot to bring our towels! haha Luckily the life guards had extras!

Anyway, so it's a new year and time for change:) This year is gonna be GREAT!
New years resolutions:

1. Go to the Temple more:)
2. Lose Weight! (my resolution every year! lol)
3. Finish my externship for my medical assisting.
4. Love more, be a better person, a better wife and mother
5. To always put Heavenly Father first in everything I do!

 My handsome Boys. They're growing up too fast:(

Volleyball!

Slippin lol

Christmas 2010

Christmas was here and over in a blink of an eye. It seems like we prepare weeks and weeks for that one day and it is over so quickly. It definitely is my favorite time of the year. Just to see that big smile on my kids faces when they open their presents is priceless!!

My boys in their PJ's on Christmas Eve.

We watched Christmas movies on Lifetime throughout the week, I ate immense amounts of delicious homemade cooked food and the best chocolate that I've ever had...*Frangos* (I'm sure my job found out that I kept eating all the samples;) lol no wonder they didn't schedule me after Christmas haha) and the best part- I just enjoyed my family and the wonderfulness of being together. It was a bit different for me being a way from my family in Utah for the first time but I'm not complaining. My in-laws are great and I'm grateful for the love that they have for us especially towards my boys.

Thank you Aunty Pearl!

My sister flew down around 5:30 pm on Christmas day!! I'm so happy that she is here with us. It makes me wish that I was back home with my siblings. My boys are already attached to her and we are so happy to have her here with us! I hope everyone had a good Christmas as much as we did:):)

Dreys Spiderman bike. He loved it!

lol Wolverine!

Zee in his outfit that Pearl got him. He loves playing w/the bball.

Thanks Aunty Lani! Drey loves this gift. Mind you that he lost most of the shooting darts. Half of it, Zeland ate the top off  of it! lol

HULK! Drey loves action figures.

Dreys favorite present from aunty Pearl.

Zee's gift from Sarina & Evalon