The Pula Family

New ADDITION!

2011-02-26T23:33:00.000-08:00

GEEZ, it's been so long that I've been on here that I actually forgot my password "EEK"....even my music on here sounds foreign and I highly doubt I remember the password to that account too! LOL...

Just wanted everyone to know that we are definitely expecting AGAIN LUCKY number 8....and I am just in my 13th week of pregnancy! We are excited and are anticipating a healthy pregnancy this time around! We have a 9 moth old little boy who we really had a difficult pregnancy and birth with, but he is thriving and is doing so much better despite those challenges. We are eager to give him a sibling to enjoy and have fun with.

I know I say this so often, but I could not be more on top of the world than now! My children are growing, I have the best eternal companion anyone could ask for and I'm pregnant with our last little one and things so far seem great!

It's always challenging being at home with so many kids to love and care for, but I know that these moments are but a blink of an eye!...

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: LOVE even when you don't feel like it!.......

2010-07-01T12:59:00.000-07:00

All of us NOW

Mark and I sharing a Ice-cream cake...at dinner a few nights ago

All of us wayyy back in 1989!...When Mark served his mission in our Area in Oakley CA.

When I was in 5th grade we met the most amazing elders in our Area! At the time, I don't believe our family was very actively going to church! But these two gentlemen played a huge role in our activity in returning back to church!..The Haole Elder Mark....was a shy young teenager from a small town in Utah, and he remembers the influences of his companion in this picture George Kaka, and my mom really bringing him out of his shell and changing his life forever! They have both been like older brothers to us since then! The last time I saw Mark, I was pregnant with my second child and we met up in SEATTLE and we went down a LOG RIDE at the seattle center....YES, YES, YES...silly me, but that's the story!

10 yrs later since that time, he popped in again on us while visiting on Oahu and took a hop over to the Big Island and we were able to take another group shot together! We had a great time! We always enjoy his company and look forward to visiting with him when he's here!

Pampered Massage DAY at the Marriott!

2010-04-14T20:06:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to get my massage!

The Lounge!

Bathrooms!

My sweetie coming to watch and learn the 411 of pregnancy massage!

Changing into my robe and getting ready for my rub down!

The View from the Marriott Hotel!

Beautiful Showers.......

Me and my big ol Belly..................I love this picture!

My sister Tara treated me to a Pregnancy Massage at the Marriott Resort. I totally needed it, since I am 8 months pregnant and just in those achey stages of pregnancy! Everything hurts!! I was greeted by the sweetest lady and guided into a medium sized dim lit room that had the softest bed with fresh orchids all over them! It really felt like a dream! I so wish I could get one of these everyday! Loved every bit of it...Thanks Tara and Tony!

22 weeks and counting!

2010-01-25T10:05:00.000-08:00

Getting ready to perform

all Q-T'd up!

Mama's baby girls!

My tribe!!!

Our stake just celebrated the 10 yr anniversary of the Kona Hawaii Temple!..It was so much fun as each ward was assigned to do a culture and perform on stage while everyone fed their faces with food from all over the place!...Our ward shared their SAMOAN heritage and really did an awesome job!...All of those 2 hours performances every week really showed their talent. My little 5 year old, was able to participate as the youngest performer and we were all so proud of her and how quickly she caught on!

I am 21 weeks pregnant and things are really looking up from the last few months. I'm enjoying pregnancy and have found out that we are having a LITTLE BOY! making this our 4th BOY out of 7 children! I can't keep my hands off of the TARGET sales racks. There is so many cute things!

17 weeks Pregnant and Counting!

2009-12-18T18:10:00.000-08:00

So this will be baby #7 for us and this pregnancy has had so many dips, curves and uneasy roller coaster vibes that we've really had a run for our money! About a week ago I had some heavy bleeding and cramping and was rushed into E.R. again fearing the reoccuring episode of spotting at my 6 week mark.. Panic stricken with a flood of thoughts of what I could've done to bring this all on, but to our surprise baby is still strong, kicking and very much alive... A huge sense of peace came over me as Mana and I waited in the E.R. room for the long 5 hours we were there. We made use of our time reading books to one another and laughing as we made up songs to totally random things.. It really brought me peace and strenghth to have Mana there with me. Shortly after this episode they discovered that I have a heart murmur. I've had an echo cardiogram done a few days ago and really won't know what the outcome of this will be until my doctor gives me further word of my results!...So far I've been continuing my daily routine but with a little more caution. My mother in law will be here for 2 weeks and I am so excited to have her help during this time. I'm thankful for my family and their efforts in helping wherever they can! It's been a treat to have a helping hand!.. My tummy is growing so much but to my surprise I've lost 13 lbs and I feel really great! wow...atleast that's some great news to share in this post!

So thankful for my family!

2009-11-29T09:42:00.000-08:00

Cheezy Fou!

Opening presents!

Everyone kicking back!

Before we had our grindz!

We set the kids up in the garage, complete with T.V. and all...it was the perfect place to make a huge mess!

As the sun sets...it's breath taking!

My sister and I after a very long day of cooking...

Our H.S. friends visitng from SEATTLE, as my hubby works the grill on Thxgvng! BBQ chicken, Kal bi ribs...it was so ONO..

Where everyone retired too, after eating....

Happy jaron on his b-day!

These girls always have me dying...

We never do w/out a sure game of scrabble...so fun!

why do I love this man so much?..............I'm thankful I have him for eternity!

It's a rare occasion!

2009-11-23T23:44:00.001-08:00

Lov'n the beach

U know we camp until the sun goes down, down, down!

Baby Tony.....

Loading up the Van for a family trip to the BEACH!

Chilly Waimea 65 degrees!

They love the beach so much! the sun is setting...

Gorgeous green Waimea!

So full of "Hawaiian Style CAFE"............

The spot...

Amaya getting her feet wet!

Aryn said she wanted a sandwich now!

Our first stop "The Park in Waimea"

My 3 sweetie pies!

It's always rare to Have "Mana" home so we tend to do a lot of things without him. He usually has to read about it when he gets home from work! (Thank goodness for technology)...But we were fortunate to have a furlough friday with our children and decided to make a day of it!.. So we dropped off the twins at school, took a drive up to Waimea and had breakfast with our three girls at "Hawaiian Style Cafe"!! Got some ice-cream, and hung out at the park for a couple of hours!..It was a chilly 65 degrees and my girls looked so cute to finally be able to use their jeans and sweaters! As we made the trek back home our temp gage in our car went up from 65 degrees to a warm 80 degrees!

We decided to make it a beach day, so we packed up the Van with boogie boards, lunch and lots of anxious little kids and headed for KUA BAY!..Had a blast! and of course we left after the sun set! Absolutely a gorgeous day! Couldn't help but share it with you!

Halloween 2009 and our Big SCARE>>>>>>>>

2009-11-04T17:43:00.000-08:00

All the kids at our Ward Trunk or Treat!

Audrey "my sassy 60's brat doll"..

My "Haka boy and my Gothic Brat Doll Amaya"

My family!

My gorgeous girls!

The Jokerettes!

My crazy Haka boys!

These are my models!

I'm 10 weeks pregnant and Few days ago I noticed that I started bleeding after using the bathroom... Totally freeked me out, so Mana rushed me into E.R. as my sister Tara sped over to p/u our kids and took them to her place! All that kept running through my mind was that we were losing our little baby and we needed to get to the hospital as fast as we could. We drove over to Waimea's hospital which is 45 minutes away and kept praying along the way as we drove that all would be fine! It was surprising so calm driving there, as I tried to soothe my husbands anxiety...but our whole drive to the hospital was so peaceful! The moon was full and it lit up all the pastures and trees along the side of us relaxing me as we rode to E.R. We arrived to a friendly staff on shift that evening and After extensive blood drawn and examination we finally had an ultrasound that confirmed that our little baby was still much alive with a strong heartbeat! A whirlwind of emotions flooded my mind as we saw our little pumpkin still safe inside of me!

The doctor let us know that there could be 2 reasons for my bleeding! I could either 1, be in early stages of a miscarriage or I could be one of those women who actually spot during pregnancy! She mentioned that although it's not normal to spot during pregnancy it is very COMMON to do so! She ruled out miscarriage because the sac of the baby is still very much attached and in place as a miscarriage would reveal a saggy weakened sac that is starting to dissappear. We followed up with an Appt with my reg O.B. and she was able to let us hear the baby via the doppler and wants me to keep a close eye on any changes! Until then, we are keeping positive and healthy!

Update:

Morning sickness and fatigue have become tolerable but I've never been so thankful to have these symptoms more than I do now!...I have my next appt in 2 weeks and I'll update then!

Pregnancy Chronicles!

2009-10-24T15:59:00.000-07:00

So I just hit my 8 week mark this past Wed. and my morning sickness/fatigue/nausea/no energy still hasn't improved! My energy is completely zapped from me and I'm not liking this feeling at all!

My house seems to stay unattended to while my mind tells me to get up and move...I try but my body is like "Sit back down missy"...so I do, but looking at the mess makes me determined to get up!

Today I'm working up the courage to go and take the kids to the beach just to get them out of the house...but I'm afraid to drive anywhere only to get sick on the way there! The heat is buggin me out of control, really makes me miss SEATTLE weather all too much!

I however do find comfort in mints or minty gum accompanied by ICE COLD water. That seems to temporary help me out..but for now tylenol and tums are in my bag at all times! Hope things get better for me from here on out...ughhhhhhhhhh

My little Soccer Princess!

2009-10-05T00:24:00.000-07:00

All pretty to get down and dirty...7 a.m. in the morning!

Huddle, and put your soccer balls down...........

"Mom, I need water please".........it's so hot and I don't blame her...because it was..

Go Aryn...mom is screaming and clapping like a maniac on the side lines!!! (Very Proud Mom)

So It's taken a lot of effort on My part since (I'm the stay at home parent )to convince Aryn that it's not so bad to get out there and try something new! Well 5 weeks of driving her to practice, switching teams, sitting and waiting out in the HOT, HOT, Kona sun...and we finally had a break through! I was so proud of Aryn! Not only was it picture day but she gave it her best, even when I was a little doubtful that today may just be like the past 5 weeks of pulling teeth!..

Aryn definitely proved me wrong and played her little heart out...during all of the drills, warm ups, and her little game...It doesn't help that the heat down on the soccer field is down right ridiculous and HOT, HOT, HOT..I almost wanna spray a hose on those poor kids! But it was alot of fun and I'm looking forward to the last few weeks we have left! Good job baby girl!

Thank you Marta~

2009-09-26T19:56:00.000-07:00

Sweet, Spicy Ginger Chews is a tasty treat when my tummy is not feeling so great!

Along with GingerSnaps, Ginger Ale all Wrapped up in...............this pretty little bag below!

So far this pregnancy hasn't started off that great! I have good and bad days, but you'd think after having 6 children I would've experienced some sort of nausea or morning sickness right?..Well wrong...so I guess there is a first for everything and although this is my 7th pregnancy this is the first for me to experience these dreadful tummy cramps as well as feeling extremely tired! My super hero girlfriend Marta came over to my house today and dropped off this cute little bag of Ginger Goodies to help with the Nausea and crampies! I am so grateful that you thought of me my dear!...You are a GEM! Thank you again...................

The latest news in our house!

2009-09-24T22:10:00.000-07:00

WE ARE EXPECTING A NEW BABY IN MAY OF 2010:

It has been a decision that we've been planning for the past year or so! We really weren't sure why it was taking so long but we're finally 6 weeks pregnant with baby #7. This has truly been a blessing and our kids are so excited to know that a new baby is going to be making his or her way into our home next spring! As we've decided that this will be our LAST pregnancy, it makes me want to treasure every moment of this pregnancy and to include our children in every step of it too! I don't believe I've ever had the opportunity to be this excited about any of my pregnancies because they all happened fairly quickly with little effort (smile)..but this pregnancy took so much longer that we are anticipating a pretty healthy baby! I have my first appt in a few weeks and will find out all the stats then, also to see how many babies there might be!! If there is twins again...we will be just as happy! I'm grateful for this challenge and feel honored to have the blessings of our heavenly father entrust me to be a mommy to a 7th angel!... I can't wait to show this picture to these kids when they are in High School!

Jaron and Kennan first real field trip and their very first pair of shoes! It took me forever to find them a pair that wasn't only easy to put on but that was wide enough and comfortable enough for their flintstone feet! I struggled getting them to wear them this morning, as they love their slippers but after they ran around a bit, they were pretty excited to be wearing shoes! I was so thankful that I Mana and I were able to go and support these little monkeys on their excursion!

Family Time!

2009-09-15T12:50:00.000-07:00

Joe and Sam...

Beach Volleyball

Keahou Beach

love having the family over!

the 3 amigos

Saying good bye to Auntie Dayla and uncle jake

Audrey and Jodeci...........

Jumping off the wall

Joe's visit to Kona...

Lobstah..........

BBQ'n

jaron found a friend

Kennan...

boy scouts...........combined young women

leaving for school!

This makes me pee my pants so bad!!!

My handsome son............

Oh I love him so much!

My two chocolate drops...

Been slacking in my blogg'n sessions, but for those of you who keep up with our fam...here's a little update! I had some pix that I've been wanting to post from some of our favorite family moments lately! Whether it's a family BBQ, a ward beach party, boys scouts or just some good ol family Down time it's always so fun to unwind and take a breather from our chaotic weeks to laugh and have fun with eachother!

UPDATE:

*hosted a chinese BYU hawaii student named Xiaorong Wang whom we called Jean! I have learned a whole different meaning of Charity~ In the 24 hours that she stayed with me, just to have a bed to lay her head in her busy sessions of attending our Kona Temple, I learned to become more humble and appreciate all of the SMALL things that make us happy...My husband and I were able to have dinner with her after putting our kids to bed, and I have to say that the sincerity and innocence of her prayer was so pure that it truly made an impression on my heart! We opened our eyes only to find both of our eyes filled with tears! We knew she was sent to us, as a reminder of "what a priviledge it is for us to attend the temple! We have the opportunity to go, as often as we want so long we make that choice ourselves! This young 27 year old student who used all of her monies to travel outer island on pure faith that she would fine a place to stay to do this sacred work! I truly believe that people come into our lives during different seasons for bigger reasons than we are prepared to comprehend! Thank you for sending this young lady to us! We can't wait until she visits again!

My poor Kennan...

2009-09-03T16:31:00.001-07:00

We had the missionaries over for dinner last night, so we made some really yummy local BBQ chicken and some other great sides! The kids bum rushed the chicken with tongs in hand....YIKES...Kennan grabbed it first and his index finger got caught in between the tongs where it's really sharp...my daughter aryn literally yanked the tongs out of Kennan's hand and sliced Kennan's finger so badly I wasn't sure if she actually severed it OFF...Blood was everywhere, I mean everywhere, it actually made me really scared to really know the true outcome!

Mana was totally panicked as he quickly rushed kennan to get his hand under running clean water...he had trouble getting the blood to stop! We worried he might need stitches...With the missionaries still over enjoying their meal...an overwhelming sense of peace came over me, that everything was going to be just fine!...Mana was still excited about what had just taken place, and a flood of emotions were going through everyones mind. Kennan was crying so loud, and I believe he could feel how anxious we all were! I immediately started singing as many of his favorite primary songs as I could to calm him down and it worked...a few minutes later and lots of antibiotic gels and bandaids and our little boy was back to normal!

Mana took off today to help me take Kennan into the Doctors to make sure he didn't need stitches...it was way too late for stitches but they said it would've been useful for him to have had a few but after 24 hours it's too late!...The ended up just putting some steri strips and some ointment and a bandaid over for him,,,,I know he'll be back and and running in no time!

Crazy days ahead!

Back up and running!!

2009-09-01T14:43:00.000-07:00

Sorry to my faithful frendz who read my blog! Things have been super pure craziness in the PULA household! I don't know what I was thinking that "I'd have MORE time to do what I want as soon as our youngest boys started preschool this year!" I was soooooooo wrong...seems like I'm more busier now, because I do have all the time in the world to grocery shop, wash laundry, cook, clean and low and behold book appointments that I would normally schedule for my husbands ONE day off he has a week!! So I guess there are PRO's and CONS to having ALL of your kids in school! To top if off our computer had a virus...so with the help of my brother in law and my girlfriend Kaulana I was able to get our computer up and running and back on track, thus my reason for updating our blog!

Our AC went out in our VAN....and having no AC in KONA is just as bad as having no water in the desert....so while we have been searching for a AC part on EBAY...to save some money...my husband has been the sweetheart that he is and has given me his car to drive until my AC problem is fixed! I totally miss driving my VAN...

Lately we've had our share of having our faith tried, but when my husband or I feel weakened in that area...I'm so grateful that ONE of us usually has the extra strength the pull the other one up! I've had some really neat experiences happen to me lately that have physically, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally uplifted my heart, and I have to say "Thank you to those of you, who have been there for us, during these crazy times"...It always seems that I have this special bond with friends, that I may not be able to hang out with as often as I want to, but when those "CRAZY" moments come up, it's like this telepathic echo reflects my need and "YOU" are here right when I need you!! So thank you frenz, all of you who are here when I need you! I hope that I am that same friend to you...

The twins are adapting to preschool...no more cries, just sweet kisses in the morning when we drop them off! Kennan has really blosssomed the most...and has found true independancy! While Jaron on the other hand has found comfort in a sarogant (sp?) mother "MISS VEENA"...(his teacher aid at school)...he clings to her like he normally would to me...but all in all I'm just very glad that they are able to go to this program! This past Sunday was our first sunday that they stayed in Nursery by themselves.........after a full year of trying to sneak out! I truly believe that school has played a huge role in letting them stay in class alone!! YIPPEE...

I'm excited to hangout with my MAN tomorrow...we're spending a date day...doing some temple work tomorrow morning...so I'm really looking forward to FINALLy being able to go together! I can't express how in love I am with this man....even writing this right now makes me want to pay him a lil visit at work!....take care everyone!

Official TODAY was their first of Preschool!

2009-08-04T12:36:00.001-07:00

All of you are well aware of how much I have been anticipating/but yet again still holding on to the expectations I had of our twin babies going to preschool! Well the day has come and this time "Without" Mommy or daddy at their side, they bravely took their steps into their seperate classrooms! They somehow felt inside that it was time for me and Mana to go but their cries peirced my heart as I hugged them and kissed them and told them I'd be back to get them! Each of their teachers were so supportive, kind, warm and loving and intercepted my departure as I waved goodbye and promised them that I'd be back to get them. I never thought it was going to be THIS hard....

This is such a HUGE ordeal for not only them but our WHOLE family! The twins were lucky to have the luxury of having ME home with them and vice versa, but the attachment you develop being home with your youngest children I think speaks volumes!!

They both will turn 3 in November and are the youngest children in their class...(I think)..but the other children in their class, as I noticed, surely seemed so much older and well adjusted with the idea of starting preschool! Mana was so awesome...his big ol strong arms held me as I buried my face in his chest and cried so hard! He comforted me and told me, that he knows that this is going to be so hard, but we are HELPING them become more independant from eachother (the twins). It truly is a great opportunity to be native Hawaiian and to be able to take part of such a fantastic preschool program! I feel fortunate that they are able to take part in that.

I came back home, after dropping the twins off, still a little dazed at what just took place! I'm tending to my other children Audrey (7) who is sick with the flu, and Aryn (5) who will start kindergarten this Thursday! It was comforting for me to still have babies to come home to, but starting next week, it's just me, myself, and I! (not sure if I'm prepared for that).. I guess I better start planning for some classes to begin for photography huh?? Wish me luck!

Twins first day of Preschool!

2009-07-31T19:32:00.001-07:00

Kennan put his things in his bin!

Jaron is relaxing after playing hard!

Kennan is having fun!

Two monsters

Their little park, for play time!

Kennan writing his name on the sidewalk

Discovering Blocks.....

Very Shy guy!

Warming up!

Buddies for life, couldn't wait to see eachother!

Jaron really loved this book, he noticed the ukulele

totally loved the classes fighting fish

he loved recess........

and was mezmorized by the "Go..feesh"

He made a few things with play dough!

We visited the block area!

He enjoyed puzzles!

and the big trucks!

made some handprints...and that was our day today!

Thank you to my sister Jill, who was able to come along with me on the twins first day of school! I love how their school prepares and transitions the children to get used to their NEW environment! Today school was from 8:30 am - 10:00 and the parents were to attend with their children for today! I however have TWO kids, and asked my sister if she could help me out today!

They basically were broken up into groups of 3 and came at different alotted times, ours happened to be in the morning! Then next week the boys will go for 4 hours 3 days a week, the following week will be 5 hours with 3 days a week and the final week when they start will be 5 days a week from 7:45 a.m - 2:00 p.m.!!!

They learned the ropes of their classroom, handwashing, experimenting with different areas, singing, circle time, and of course having fun! It was so great! I'm really excited for them to start full time in a few weeks, and I know that they are so ready, it has alot to do with me not wanting to part from them! Whaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!

Haircuts and Ice-cream treats in the Park watchin Late night Baseball games!

2009-07-31T19:14:00.001-07:00

Mana gett'n interested in the baseball game

Dayla and Jake expecting their "BABY BOY" December 2009

Hav'n fun at the Park...Hot night = Ice-cream bars from TARGET...

Family Fun!!!

Blue lips on cute lips.........

My favorite people in the whole world

Watching those players...........

A cold treat for Amaya and Mommy...before getting her hair done!

Sweet kennan has a popsicle to match his FIT...

total teenager response!!!

My sassy princess...

Deez guys love the camera......

My gorgeous MEN...

Brotherly love!

Wackin the Wig off....for school

Pretty Amaya!

Mommy and Daughter day out together!

GEttin that hair did!

With the rush of school starting and getting supplies picked up, seperated and bagged for each child...came the preperation of getting haircuts..which we try to cut costs and do them ourselves! As our girls are maturing I figured it would be nice to take them to go and get their hair done professionally! Although I'm well qualified to do it, I love when someone else can do their hair. I found the best hairdresser by the name of YOLANDA. She is a sylist that works at the Innovations salon right next door to Kona mix plate! Love her!

It was so warm last night around 9:00 p.m. our family decided to cool off for a family ride, we stopped off at our New TARGET (my favorite hang out spot) , picked out some favorite ice-cream treats and headed to the park to watch some Baseball games that were going on. When you have a huge family like ours, anything is fun when your doing it together! I always enjoy hanging out with my children and my husband after a long crazy day. I'm looking forward to this school year and all the changes that are ahead of us!

Thank you Dad and Sue!

2009-07-27T00:03:00.000-07:00

Jare Bear eating Healthy Snacks....

Aryn fell asleep in Papa's BED........sneaky lil girl!

Swimmin...even before the sun comes up!

My girls with Great Grandma Roberta, Grandma Sue and Auntie Erika

Pretty Makana with her Auntie!

Being Silly!

Most of the kids............

Audrey takin a break from swimming!

Crazy Jare............

Kennan is a character, I tell you!

Amari back flipp'n into the pool1

our children are fishes!

Gettin ready to bake cakes with Grandma

Perfect Conversation area.........on this huge lanai

lots of fun = very sleepy kids!

Listenin to her IPOD

Isn't this so sareal (sp?)

Grandkids with Papa!

Aryn made a friend!

Last night, saying Good bye to Papa!

Look at this Sunset!!!..........It was so romantic....

Thank you DAD and SUE! This was such a PERFECT ending to SUMMER vacation for not only US but for the kids! We had so much fun, and this house was absolutely perfect to fit our LARGE family! The kids could not get enough swimming and just had the best time being together as always! I hope our next trip will not be too far away but we'll try to work on coming to visit you next time!...All in all we had a blast........the kids loved their little birthday party, cakes, goodie bags! Sue the thought that went into making all of those bags for the kids made the special touches memorable! Dad...thank you for being a great sport and putting all of the goodies in the bags! I think the kids will be using the Gift Certificates on Wednesday when Mana is off! We love you..................

The latest news!

2009-07-18T14:11:00.000-07:00

Maya, Me, Matt, and STACY

Grubbin in the backyard

Can you believe we live right around the corner from this?

Looks like POOL water but it isn't...

Uncle O with Jaron...

Living in Hawaii brings reunions between friends because of the sole purpose that reuniting in PARADISE makes everything too perfect. All of us in this picture have all come from Federal Way Washington!! Dayla in on bottom in black: has been my girly from way back since H.S. and Matt another H.S. classmate in the gray shirt with his girlfriend stacy in white were visiting family on Oahu and decided to hop a flight over to Kona! My brother and his wife Maya in Pink also obviously are from the same place and it was crazy fun knowing that we Would happen to all be in Kona all these years later! Debbie is a co-worker of mine when we worked for Alaska Airlines together. She was really my heart when I was a single mom going through my divorce. She really was the best person I could've ever met and I'm so glad that she decided to come hang out with me and the family! We truly did have an awesome time. She is like a mother to me and I'm looking forward to many more visits soon!

Aryn was too excited to get her teeth cleaned...

Kennan was so relaxed it actually was SHOCKING! since he usually is the first to cry bloody murder!

My poor Jaron...hated me after this...but you know what it didn't hurt him not one bit! They are so awesome at changing words like : SHOTS= sleepy juice that lets your tooth take a nap...or plaque into "SUGAR BUGS" and flouride into "Can I paint your teeth"... I guess when working with children, it makes it easier when you can break it down to them in a more fun way to take care of your teeth! It was a long day...but someone had to do it huh??

Saying good bye to Efrum...

2009-07-09T15:34:00.001-07:00

Elias, Tenny, Efrum, and Mark at E's last dinner with the family

My siblings....

Goodbye to Efrum

Makana and the twins

it's so hard to say good bye....we miss him so much!

My nephew Ephraim moved to Samoa to live with his Dad about 2 weeks ago! We were able to have a small devotional with him before his departure off with his dad! Everyone had an opportunity to cry and share with ephraim of all the positive impacts that he has on each of us! The hardest part for me was to see our children hug him and cry so hard that your own heart melted. I realized the connection that each of our children have for eachother is so close, to see those ties severed was heartbreaking.....I have big dreams for him and know that even though we miss him so much here with our family, I know that he will come back to us on Vacations with tons of stories of things that he's learned while living with his dad! We can hardly wait until he comes back for those vacations!...

Kukio.........with the family!!

2009-07-09T15:22:00.000-07:00

Amaya

Audrey

Kukio Beach

Having Lunch

I sat in the shade and still got burnt...with SPF 85 applied!..

Sweet innocent Aryn...(yeah right)

Beautiful Audrey!

Amaya and my neice Fou (Tara's daughter..)

We love to spend time together as a family! This summer has been so much fun enjoying so much time with my kids! It must be because our twins our nearing their 3rd birthday this coming November and can walk, talk, and eat on their own...Making it so much easier to do more with the kids compared to last year! I feel a sense of accomplishement looking at our large family and wondering how fast time surely does fly by! This summer sure has been fun hanging out with our tribe!...

Camp Honoka'ia Boys Scouts....

2009-07-09T15:15:00.001-07:00

Yay...Mar Mar is coming home!

Amari and Anton

Kimo, Paul, and Micah Kahanu

Picking up our Boys..

Relaxation in the forest...

Giving it all you got when it's your troops "SKIT"...chee hoo

Park your trucks HERE...

My nephew Anton...smiling cuz he can't wait to go home!

Getting ready for Potluck

Beautiful Honoka'ia

Our boys...pack 131..

By the campfire watchin our boys perform their skits..

Pack 131...June 2009

Okay so Amari had a pretty fun filled summer this year. It really just goes to show just how much older he really has become! I missed him terribly for the short but long two weeks he was away from us. It really made me appreciate having his helping hand in our home and all of the things he helps me with at home! I have to say that I have a greater appreciation for him, and I'm so glad that he was able to take part in Boys Scout Camp and to attend Explorations this year on Oahu!

Home Sweet Home!

2009-06-29T17:52:00.000-07:00

Lots of Memories on "Laie Point"

My Waimanalo Family...............

Beautiful Valley of the Temples...where my mommy is buried!

I went to go and put fresh Flowers on my mommy's grave.......

I cannot believe that we crazy kids used to swim here...why were we not afraid?

These mountains are my favorite when I visit home.........

I was blowdrying my hair outside on my Auntie Lani's porch on the point and this was my view..

It was breakfast at the "Ah you's" with my girlies...we had so much fun!...I love them!

Tala's cutest baby in the whole world...................

At the Ali'i Luau at PCC..

Tala and Ry making B'fest for everyone!

Quick stop for Breakfast with the Isa and Kerry Moeai at "Hukilau Cafe"

Had to get a picture with skinny "BULA"..............while she was working..

Jill and I at the night show for PCC...........

I absolutely miss these tradewinds........it brings back so many awesome childhood memories!

Canoe Show...........I had a blast playing tourist

JIll, Jolene Kanahele and I at BYU

Did a run over to Rainbow School in Kahuku to say Hello to "Sherry Evans"

This is my mom's oldest sister Auntie Moana and her husband Max Hannemann, they live in Kahuku now and are really enjoying being home! Wow she still has her same wonderful sense of humor and stories of everyone, it was such a nice visit!

Buses dropping off busloads of students for the Summer explorations program at Kamehameha School Kapalama campus on Oahu..

Laie...............................................

My boys with their counselors and dorm advisors at Explorations.

They were so sad to leave and has soooooooooooo much fun, I missed my son so much, I cried because right after this he left for another week to Boys Scout Camp...ughhhh

Me and my handsome Boy.........

Jilly and I at the Ho'ike on Oahu at the Kapalama Campus

My sister Jill and I both have boys that are the going to be in 6th grade! Around this time of summer Kamehameha offers a Fantastic Explorations program to Hawaiian Children to learn and explore the language, arts, studies and history of the Hawaiian Culture. I still remember when I attended 21 yrs ago and it was such an awesome opportunity that I promised myself to do with my OWN children.

Our boys flew out of Kona to Oahu on Sunday and we flew over that following Thursday to go and hang out on the Island and visit family and friends and to also attend our boys Ho'ike (performance). My husband took 3 days off to watch our children while I had some sister time with Jilly!

We saw everyone, ate everything, and bought everything we wanted to get on our list of to do, in the short 3 days that we were there! Not only was the tradewinds blissfully perfect, but we were able to sleep in without any kids crying, and get pampered by all the aunties we visited. I have to tell you that I would take this over any pedicure or foot massage there is!!

Thank you to my long time girlfrenz for looking around time for me and then making a huge breakfast with the keiki's, I'm so grateful to have the friends and family that I have! So I guess until the next sisterhood of the traveling pants reunion...we'll see ya next yr...

Amari is growing up!

2009-06-22T13:30:00.000-07:00

Earned his "Arrow of light award"...here is his display board...

Anita and I................

My 5 babies minus Mar Mar...

Father's Day dinner......

oops...same shot

all of us sweaty after dancing the night away.

The 3 amigo's

My neice Makana and I at the kona airport, she was leaving to Kaui for a summer program

Makana and Hiwa Manning and Family all leaving for Summer program

Waiting Patiently........to leave to oahu with all their families

Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa, my baby boy leaving with his group to get on their flight to Oahu

Jill and Elias........leaving to Oahu for Explorations too

oops another double picture!............

My son 11 yr old son just left on his very first trip away from me to Oahu to attend Kamehameha Schools Exploration program where they dorm on the Kapalama campus for one week and learn about the Hawaiian Culture. I remember going to the same program over 20 yrs ago and I can't explain to you, just how awesome this program was! I understand the anxiety, and nervousness he felt going. He was pretty set on "not wanting to go"...I said "TOO BAD", because your going to love it! From snorkeling, to boogie boarding, canoe paddling, hawaiian arts and crafts, and of course the ONO, ONO, food that they serve...mmmmmmmmm. He's a little nervous about dorming with a stranger, and I hope that he'll learn the beauty of diversity through this summer trip away!! I will meet up with Amari on Friday on Oahu as my sister Jill and I will be going there for 3 days to attend our boys Ho'ike performance at the end of this week! I miss him so much and I can't wait until Friday!

and then it's off to Boys Scout Camp next week in Honoka'ia...Whooo Hoo...I miss you!

Twins "FIRST" sleepover.........

2009-06-21T10:23:00.001-07:00

Jaron showing his HAKA moves...................

My girls being good big SIZZY"s.........to the boys

Uncle Jake...reading books to the kids............(MY KIDS love to read so much)

the boys JUMPIN>>>>all around............and having so much fun!

We love these guys so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My bestest girlfriend in the whole world Dayla is "MOVING" back to Seattle at the End of Summer and I am so sad....She is expecting her first baby this Winter and I will NOT be able to be there for her pregnancy like she has been for all 6 of my births..."whaaaaaaaa", so I guess a trip to SEATTLE will definitely need to be on the agenda?

Anyway Dayla thought it would be so fun to have a LAST sleepover at her place before moving home to SEATTLE and before becoming a new MOMMY!! But this time she invited our 2 1/2 yr old twins who have NEVER slept away from me since birth...YIKES. I totally trust Dayla with all my heart and knew that she would keep them entertained...but come on 5 kids...are you sure??

I take them over to her house....and Jake's got Mini burgers fryin for the kids, father's Day card making art work going on, they've got a drawerful of snacks all ready to go for MUNCHIE time, and necklace making in preperation!! I'm always impressed by her ideas, but was still a little leary about the twins. I decided to sneak out the door...only to be greeted by two happy toddlers saying "Bye Bye Mama"...........Nooooooooooooooooooo, was this for real?

I wasn't sure what to even do with my time after this, but made sure that I had something planned other than going home to do laundry, cleaning, or anything else a MOM with no kids does??? yeah right...so I hung out with my sisters and then had a quiet evening with my husband! Dayla said that Jaron needed a little extra love at the end of the night and was pacing around the house saying "Where's Mama?" to each of his sisters ........but he eventually got a little tummy time with DAY and fell asleep...Thanks Day...for being an awesome SITTER...I'm going to miss you when you leave!!!!!!!!!!!! whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

She's an absolute Comedian..and doesn't know it!

2009-06-18T17:43:00.000-07:00

My girlfriend Anita is visiting from SEATTLE, Washington! We go way back when we first met 8 yrs ago working as Ticket Agents for Horizon Airlines! Probably one of my most favorite jobs in the whole world. We got the worst pay, but the co-workers that we had to work with, Man I wish there were more jobs like those these days! Anyway Anita brought her 12 yr old Son "VAY" with her, and rented a beautiful place in Kahakai Estates! We pretty much have spent everyday together since her arrival, and I thought it would only be fair to have her over to our house for a FAB home cooked "PULA" dinner!!

We hung out, got caught up with one another and she offered to have my 3 older girls stay the night at her place, because she's got a pool there. My daughters naturally were so excited to get away that my 4 yr old ARYN ran in her room to pack her things...She was gone for awhile until I asked "Where's Aryn?" She says "Right here MOM"..and comes out of her room with 2 tightly packed backpacks...I'm totally laughing at this point, thinking "Wow, she really is ready to get out of here"!...after laughing I tell Aryn to take off the sweater that she has on, because not only is it 85 degrees and HOT...it's humid with no breeze and she's sweating so bad and this sweater is zipped all the way up!..I'm still telling her to take the sweater off, and as she refuses I end up taking the zipper down and zipping it down for her only to find that she has on a lacy tank top that is about 5 sizes to big and the middle of the tank top is hanging to her belly button! We all get a huge kick out of this by now, and think she is so cute...but she thinks we are laughing at her and starts crying! Evil me...continues to open her packed bags noticing that she's packed the following:

*2 plastic easter eggs filled with rice and decorated with stickers
*2 hooded sweatshirts
*4 pages of folded up painted Art work
*1 undie
*swimsuit
*unopened box of toothpaste
*2 math flashcards
*chapstick
*brush
*one shirt
*two pictures of herself at preschool

HIGHLIGHT of the twins:

They say "Happy Day...Yay...Yay..." translation "Happy Birthday"...I love it

OH my Gossssssss....jaron have a pizza (piko = belly button in Hawaiian)

Summer is Here...............

2009-06-13T19:42:00.000-07:00

Audrey and her classmate at their end of school songfest

Amaya performing her number with all the 3rd graders

Me and Audrey at Jamba Juice

The Crowd at Songfest.......pure craziness, that's my blue tent in the back...I got there at 6:45 a.m. to set up!

My kiddo's enjoying a sweet treat from Jamba Juice...YUMMY

This month my calendar has been full and booked SOLID. From Graduation, to Boys scout stuff, getting ready for trips, meetings, doctor appointments or just plain "ENTERTAINING" our kids with lots of busy Activities throughout the day...it has been surprisingly a lot of fun!

*We have been spending lots of time swimming this summer, as Kona has really been much hotter this summer! Keeping cool is vital, but keeping yourself protected from the heat is just as important...We use SPF 85 and I think I may need to step it up to 100 soon. We all have some pretty amazing color, but I tell you my kids are having a ball!

*I enrolled my kids in the Summer Reading Program and they all have their age appropriate books which we log down and earn a weekly prize from our Local Library when they turn it in!

*Did the Farmers Market run yesterday, My kids washed my Van in the rain and had a blast, and I snuck in a Costco Run and a JAMBA JUICE run as well!!! To tell you the truth, I'm having a lot of fun spending time with my kids this Summer!

*I made it a goal this summer to really be INTO learning something new with my kids, whether it be something Historical, educational, spiritual..whatever just something that they'll appreciate and remember!

3 exciting things!

2009-06-05T22:21:00.000-07:00

Aryn is our lively 4 soon to be 5 yr old on "The 4th of JULY" who has successfully finished Preschool and is well prepared for her first year to Kindergarten! She has really enjoyed attending Kamehameha's Preschool Program, and we have enjoyed seeing her grow as parents. We are grateful that she was able to be apart of MISS ANNETTE's class. Today was Aryn's last day as a preschooler, and they went out with a bang and had goodie bags, splash day, a fab lunch menu. It was a great way to say "A Hui HOu"

Our twins Jaron and Kennan are 2 1/2 years old, and have successfully mastered POTTY TRAINING 101, for the past month. I'm so proud of them, it literally took me one week! We needed to have them trained before school started! They have been selected to attend Kamehameha Preschools 3 yr old program this year. I am so pleased that they were BOTH chosen. Sadly they won't be in the same class, but I'm crossing my fingers that through this seperation they will become more independant! I'm excited to know that they are #1 going to an awesome school and #2 this will be my first time in 10 yrs that I will have no little ones at home (Jaw dropping) I still can't get over it!...I think this would be a great time to break out my book of goals huh?

All of us at our oldest Child "Amari's 5th grade graduation" from Kealakehe Elementary School! His moving on with the Big Dogs, in Intermediate........This transition from child to young adult is such a vital point in any childs life! I am so proud of him. Besides the crazy heat, no parking and no seating during graduation.........it was all worth it to see my HANDSOME BIG BOY strut down the cafeteria and accept his handshake as his name was called! It really made me realize just how much time has passed, and how much Amari and I have been through together as MOMMY and SON! From being a teenage mom and him being pretty much my baby in training, to single mommy, all the way to now 6 kids later.......I appreciate his help with his siblings and for calming me down when I sometimes get out hand, I'm grateful that he is so forgiving when things go sour, and I mostly love him because of who he has become!

I found this quote:

The moment a child is Born the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed but the mother never, A MOTHER is something absolutely NEW!

It has been so overwhelming these past months, knowing what's in store with each child. All 6 children with major life preparations coming their way and me wonderfully witnessing these sweet successes in their lives! I feel so honored to be called their MOTHER~ I love you

I'm sweating like a................

2009-06-01T18:47:00.000-07:00

If you read my page and check out my little Temperature box on the right hand side of this blog, you get to see just how freegin hot Kailua Kona really is this summer!...Plus we're so lucky to get a thick mix of VOG and HUMIDITY rolled into that.......This is going to be a ridiculously hot summer! We've been doing lots of swimming to keep cool and plenty car rides to get out of the house! We do have AC in our home, but the pain of the Electric Bill when it's ran 24-7 is unforgivable!!! YIKES...so I'll be good to our pockets this summer, and find other means of coolin off! I've got a permanent tan from all the water activities I do with the kids to keep them cooled off. Lots of fun, but it literally takes every ounce of energy you have to swim in this heat....Wish me luck for the rest of the summer!

Thank Goodness!

2009-05-29T16:27:00.000-07:00

Okay, so a neglected car = a sad car and a sad car = no car and no car = OUT OF LUCK!...

I try to make it a priority to make sure we do take care of our vehicles, but in these economic times, you almost have to do one thing at a time...I was so happy to get some new Tires and a full service check - up done to our van today, because my car is the MAIN taxi in our family, and we really need to take good car of "HER"...

But in order to this today, I needed a little extra help...I was so glad to have my sister home today who gladly took me around to run my errands while my car was getting a "SPA TREATMENT"... I also had the twins and Aryn with me, which in my book, always makes doing this stuff, 10 x harder! Harder because with the chaos of running in and out of stores, you have potty breaks, lunch breaks, naptime and all that in between!

After all was said and done, we got grocery shopping at Costco done, Walmart conquered, lunch accomplished, and even was able to sneak in a SUBWAY run delivery to my nephew Ephraim for a late Birthday Surprise from me! I'm acutally surprised that we finished before all the kids came home from school, but now I'm like Whewwwwwwwwww wiped out!

Thank you Tara for being off of work today and available to take me around as we waited. It is always awesome having some extra arms available to help me, especially on crazy days like these!

Just so you know...a few things to share!

2009-05-27T12:57:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone~

We got a head start feeling the Summer HEAT here in Kona, and somedays it's okay, but I have to tell you that I really appreciate the overcast weather today and the little sprinkles of rain this morning! It really helps simmer the heat down some!

Yesterday I was absolutely wiped out, and My dear husband came home at the end of his first job with about an hour to spare inbetween him starting his second job! He found me sleeping in my room, and came in my room, kissed me on my cheek and wiped my hair away from my face and let me know that he was home. He said, "Honey just sleep, I got it"....I was still half asleep at this point, but did hear the vaccuum going, the kids taking their baths and Mana cooking dinner! I felt so unbelievably reassured that it was okay to extend my well deserved nap...An hour must've passed, because before you knew it, MY SUPERMAN, was showered and changed into his night job clothing and ready to go out the door!...He says...Honey, I gotta go, the kids are fed, bathed and I'll see you tonight, get as much sleep as you can"...

As soon as I heard the door close, I woke up to find all of my kids comforatably watching a movie in the living room, smelling like so sweet! I relaxed with my tribe, waited up for Mana to come home from work to let him know just how thankful I was for doing that for me. It's not often we get to do that for one another, but It's a wonderful thing when we see eachother need a little extra help, we are there to lend a hand!

Today:

I had a meeting to go to this morning at 8:30 a.m and Mana didn't have to work until mid morning! He thought I'll come with you and take the kids to the park and wait for you?... I got up to take my shower, and when I came out...he had packed little boxes of cereal, milk, complete with bowls, spoons and napkins in a little lunch bag for the kids...He even remembered extra clothes and the twins potty. I was so caught off guard at how quickly he did that! Not that it's a surprise, but just you know...another one of those grateful moments!

Quick note: We both rarely get to see one another between Mana working 2 jobs outside of our home and me being ablet to be home with our children. So on very rare occasions, I'll treat him, or he'll treat me to a little surprise like these that I've shared. These little acts of kindness mean so much to me and I"m glad that I can share these moments with you too!

Funnies.......

2009-05-18T20:25:00.000-07:00

Coversation with my 5 yr old Aryn:

A: Mom I know how to say "Good-bye in Spanish"

Me: How did you learn that?

A: at school

Me: Oh really, How do you say good bye then?

A: Heema...Hoo..nuh!!!

Me: Laffin...Oh really???

A: Mom, whatever, you don't know how to speak spanish!!

The twins are getting ready for preschool this coming August and are fully potty trained! I'm so proud of them! They are expressing themselves a little more freely these days! We have spent a lot of time swimming these days, and have the color to prove it! They are feeling safer swimming around and getting under the water! It's so fun being apart of their growth! I'm going to miss them when they go to school, but I'm also excited to have some ME time coming up soon!

Some Words of theirs:

Garlic Milk: Chocolate Milk

Go----fissssssss: gold fish crackers

Perfect Wednesday!

2009-05-13T22:51:00.000-07:00

Not only did I find out that I've lost another 2 lbs...but I was able to have Mana give me a break and he dropped Aryn off at Preschool and also took the twins to their little Tutu and Me program! We met up at the grocery store, picked up some essentials and then came home and took a well deserved Nap! Totally refreshed, we took our kids to swim at Auntie Daylas house, which is always so much Fun. Mana had to run down to the airport to take a test for his night job, but he met us at home. He already started cooking Roast, with butter cabbage and potatoes!

You mean, I didn't have to cook today either...Wow! This really must be my day!..So the kids helped clean our yucky grose van out! I feel so much better knowing that I'm no longer the envy of hungry rodants, with all of the "CRUD" that was starting to eat up our CAR.

We hung out in our front yard, just enjoying our view and feeling the most perfect temperature in the air! We sent the kids in for their showers and settled in for the finished dinner and prayer! I wish everyday could be like this!!!!

Emergency Dr. Visit!!!

2009-05-11T17:18:00.001-07:00

Got a call from our preschoolers teacher saying that Aryn was crying saying that her nose hurts. I asked the teacher a series of questions before jumping the gun to come and pick Aryn up!! I know, I know....but after having 6 kids you seem to become quite immune to accidents and are a bit calmer when calls like this arise!

I tell her teacher that I'm on my way to come and pick Aryn up! On my way driving to Aryn's school, my cell phone rings and the call gets even worse! I guess now, they've discovered that Aryn has a plastic "BEAD" stuck in her nose! Oh great....so I pick Aryn up and take her to good ol Dr. Laird's office and he goes over the drill with her of what he had to do to get the bead out of her nose! Aryn sadly understands, and then tells me to leave the room! I was like "What, are you serious"...she said yes, mom and pointed her finger to show me the way out!

I left the room and heard a few screams and a couple of seconds later I got my happy little 4 yr old back!...now I've got to take the kids swimming, because that was my bribe for Aryn to sit still while Doctor Bob took out the bead!

I told Aryn, no more things in your nose! Now you know what happens when you put things in your nose!...Ughhh kids are so interesting! You gotta luv um!

Our Wards Mother's Day Celebration!

2009-05-09T20:08:00.000-07:00

I was so excited that Mana took the weekend off! I was able to go to with our sisters in our Ward to the Temple then meet back at our Chapel while our husbands made an awesome breakfast for us! We followed into the classrooms to be greeted by all of our Young Women doing Pedicures, foot massages, Full body massages, and sewing! It was such a treat to get a little pampering in! My kids ran around the chapel with everyone elses kids in our ward! It was great to see how much fun everyone was having. Mana got a little B-ball in and loooked pretty cute on that court might I add!

Tomorrow will make one year that our family was sealed in the Kona Hawaii Temple! So we get to celebrate mothers day and our anniversary all in one! I'm thankful to be a mom to 6 beautiful children: Amari, Amaya, Audrey, Aryn, Jaron and Kennan and to be Mana's Eternal Companion! I couldn't have hit the jack pot any bigger than this! I'm so in love with you guys!

These pix needed to get posted~

2009-05-08T12:46:00.000-07:00

Mana's 10 yr old Cousin Alisi was visiting from Seattle Washington! We loved having her, and the girls had so much fun with her and so did I. I had to capture this moment, with them all kickin back in our front yard! They are going to look back on this and remember how much fun this week was!

Uncle Kenji was visiting from California! We were saying Good bye to him...but he'll be back in December~!

These crazy girls crack me up so bad...............

I'm so proud of my lil monkeys! I just started training them about 3 days ago and they were so ready to do this. I think it took me to make the first move of encouragement! Gotta get them ready for preschool in August! I think we did pretty darn good especially training TWO 2 1/2 yr old toddlers! Good Job boys!

More Craziness

We love Uncle Kenji

More Proud Potty Pictures!

Old video's of Aryn....so funny!

2009-05-07T16:06:00.000-07:00

Our family was having family night last night, and we found a whole file of old video's that I took when we first moved to Kona in 2007! This one in Particular is one I couldn't resist posting of Aryn when she was 3. She made up her own moves to Apple Bottom Jeans... When this song came on the radio, I always turned it up really loud, cuz I just couldn't sit in my seat!

Little did I know, my 3 yr old at the time was plotting her own little dance moves! We all laughed so hard, even Aryn who will be turning 5 yrs old on the 4th of July! Good times, I can't believe how far we've come! I was looking around our old house at all the small stuff we had and how small all of the kids were too! I need to be doing more video's ! Hope you guys enjoyed it!

Boys at the Petting Zoo!

2009-05-06T17:20:00.000-07:00

Time to pet the animals

Leo...feeding the animals some yummy Ti leaves

All the birds cruising!

Trying to get the boys to feed the birds some old bread...they were terrified!

They were ready to grub

The boys refused to ride the horses, but didn't mind watching them ride past and waving bye to them.

This little miniature pony was the same height as the boys, and it scared the living daylight out of them..

Kennan was not touching the ground with pigs walking around....man, this is suppose to be a fun day!

Cute Hoi..seez...the boys say...but again...they weren't trying to feed them.

I was so happy to go with the boys...but so sad that they were more afraid of the animals.

The agriculture farm............at Konawaena High School!

I thought the kids would have so much fun going to the petting zoo with their preschool friends! I made the initiative to drive the 30 minute drive over to Konawaena High Schools Agriculture petting zoo so the boys could go and see their favorite Animal "Ho..seez"...I thought they would be so happy to go, but Iwas so wrong! It was no only extremely humid and hot, but my camera decided to freeze up on me! I had two little boys deathly afraid of all the little animals around them, that I ended up having to hold them the whole time! UH....I wished Mana was off to help me! I pulled it off, and managed to make it through with so much patience! Courtesy to Auntie Dayla for the pictures! She really saved me!

Let's get caught up!

2009-05-02T19:58:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

So sorry to leave my good faithful bloggers hanging! I love when you stop by to see what's going on with us! It saves me all the time in the world to repeat myself, when you read about our latest on this thing!

Potty Training in progress:...The twins got accepted into Kamehameha's 3 yr old Preschool Program! Although they are only 2 1/2 and won't be 3 until November we know that this is a great opportunity for them! We are so happy, but upon entry this coming August they will need to be FULLY potty trained. I have to say these have been the most trying times training two children at once, but the twins have surprisingly done very well. Kennan is a little more ready than Jaron, but they'll be ready soon enough!

Weather: The heat is on, and so is my electric bill!...I'm trying to be really good and not use my AC too much, so on most days we're kickin it at the pool or at the beach to keep cool!

Me: I've lost 13 lbs and counting, and I'm feeling so much better these days. I've really been working towards taking better care of myself and it's been so much fun seeing the change! I am enjoying my long morning walks looking at all of this beauty that surrounds us. I'm not sure what I'm going to do with my time when the twins go to school...Maybe I'll take up so photography courses!

Dad and Sue will be here in July, we are looking forward to their visit this summer. This is the latest!

My 5 yr old said this:

A- Mom, I wish I was a monkey...

Me- What? why...(totally caught off guard)

A- so I can climb up those trees

Me- what would you do when you get up there?

A- I would dance!

FREE EVERYTHING....Oh yes...it's was all FREE!

2009-04-19T18:55:00.000-07:00

Anton is having wayyyyyyyyy too much Fun!

Taking a picture with bro in law Tony, nephew anton and my son Amari!

Little Aryn waiting in line for the Big Slide..........

Cotton Candy never tasted so good!

Amaya...

Audrey!

Honey Bee and Ephraim.

All the cousins waiting in the lonnnngggggggggg lines!

Besides the long lines and the fact that my husband had to work! I worked up enough courage to take all 7 kids (Mana's cousin Alisi was visiting 10 yrs old) to the "FREE" Family Fun Day....Who wouldn't want to go! It was totally crowded, with tons of kids taking advantage of this fun day with their families! FREE: Chili Rice bowls, Cake, Drinks, sandwiches, shave ice, cotton candy, Keiki crafts and games, jumping castles, blow up slides, fun choo choo trains! We even got new Keiki ID's for the kids! It was a lot of fun. After 4 hours of dragging my TRIBE around, it was time to head home and take a little NAP...

If you weren't there, YOU MISSED OUT...It was a great day!

Lee pops...!

2009-04-18T12:17:00.000-07:00

I took my 2 yr old twins to run errands with me and usually if they are good they get a treat! Well their favorite treat is just good old plain lollipops, which I can usually swing by and pick up from a near by gas station. (If I don't have a big ol bag handy at home)... The day went like this

Me: Thank you boys, for being so good today...let's go get you a treat... I keep driving

Twins: saying "Yay" cheering ...totally excited, "Lee Pops..Mommy, Lee pops" ....(Lollipops)

Me: Pull into the gas station...(boys still cheering in the back, because they recognize the store)
"Okay boys,,,,mommy is gonna run in and grab a treat okay"

Twins: still cheering in their car seats....

Me: Looked everywhere for lollipops...they are fresh out of lolly's...so I grab a bag of Ling Hing Mui apple gummies...(Yum right)...so I pay for it, and dash back to the car...

Twins: still cheering because they see the bag but don't know what's in it..

Me: pulling the gummies out of the bag..."Look boys mommy got gummies"...

Twins: with both hands over their ears, shakin their head side to side sadly say...."Oh man"...no no no....lee pops, mommy! lee pops!

Me" laffin hysterically because it was so stinkin cute! Cute enough for me to go to drive to another gas station to find "Lee pops" for my bubba's!

Relaxing Day!

2009-04-15T17:18:00.001-07:00

Woke up early, sent the kids off to school! Packed up the car with coolers, jam packed with cold colorful veggies, lots of water and 55 spf sun screen! (The sun out here is no joke, WE Headed to Kukio with anticipation to enjoy the beach! Our friends Kenji and Christina are visiting from Seattle. Kenji happens to be brother in law to my brother and Christina is best frenz with my sister in law! So it worked out perfect, especially with Mana being off today! The breeze blew perfectly under the canopy we brought, and I'm so glad that I didn't forget my "IPOD" to whimsicaly woo me sleep!

I watched my little ones play in the shallow clear water as I laughed with good friends and family! I watched my husband enjoy himself on his day off, as he smiled at me and told me how thankful he is that we are able to live in such a Beautiful place! I agree...I feel blessed!

Today was a perfect day!

Pancake Breakfast for Audrey at the Clarks.........

2009-04-11T18:45:00.000-07:00

Thoughtful!

Audrey cleaning out the little BUG.........

Pancake Breakfast!

The Table is all set!

Gotta watch this little monkey!

The kids table..........

Look what they were wearng under their clothes..............hmmmm who would've known

hangin out

Flip Flap Jack.........

He's playin while he waits.......

Auntie dayla moved all the furniture outside to the Patio..............so perfect

the boys loving the ukulele with Unko Jake

Uncle jake makin aryn happy and washing off "The dirty stuff" off of Aryn's life vest!

Opening a few gifts from Auntie Dayla and Uncle Jake...

All of us having breakfast together

Perfect weather for an outdoor EASTER/Birthday breakfast for Audrey!

The kids couldn't resist the Pool............

A few more toppings to add to the mix..........

gorgeous sites all around us.......

Playin at the Pretty table!

Maya loves to help make blueberry pancakes with Uncle Jake

A few ingredients to make a Yummy Breakfast.......

Fresh Fruit!

right from the farm eggs....

Sweeter than sweet strawberries.........

Dayla and Jake missed out on Audrey's 7th Birthday so they thought they make it up to her by having a early morning breakfast at their house!..It was so perfect! Jake made some really yummy homemade blueberry pancakes! Dayla mixed up a medly of fresh fruits:Kiwi, cantaloupes, oranges, pineapple, banana's and strawberries. We even had believe it or not VEGETARIAN sausage! I couldn't even tell the difference! I'm a new fan to it and will buying it from now on! Less calories and totally yummy!

The furniture was moved outside on the Patio and it couldn't have been a more perfect morning to have this little celebration of EASTER/pancake party! I love dayla's creative mind and how it works sometimes! We all had a nice swim in the pool for a bit, it was great! Thanks so much for inviting our family over! WE love you guys!

Superwoman isn't real..........

2009-04-09T17:31:00.000-07:00

I've had a life changing experience that happened to me a little over a week ago! I had a dream that my mom (who passed away 8 yrs ago) came to me in that dream, she expressed much concern and disappointment towards me! She mentioned that she was saddened at how little time and effort I was putting towards caring for "MYSELF". It frightened me enough that I woke up from this dream, that seemed all too real! Shortly after having this strange dream, I experienced the worst "Panic Attack" in my whole entire life! It was painful enough that it mended PERFECTLY with my dream.

My body and mind were telling me in more than one way that I not only needed to slow down and take a breather, but I needed to "TAKE BETTER CARE OF ME"... It has been exactly 11 days since this all took place and let me tell you that these 11 days have been the best days for Kierstin in a long time.

Simply because I've decided to put ME first. Me first, so that I can give 100% of me to my children, my husband and towards whatever else I need in my life that will make me better! It's made such a difference making little adjustments in my eating habits, fitness habits, attitude habits and sleeping habits. I now listen to my body more, and what it's telling me, especially when it's time to sleep. Getting those 8 hours of sleep created a new inner peace, less aches and pains and a more complete day without feeling tired.

I was such a clean freak before, and a worry wart! Without me knowing, "this way of living" was taking full control of my life! Now, with Chores getting done when I can do them, it leaves me about a 1/2 of the day left over to spend on my family, with my family, for myself which = better attitude and a better mom. I don't worry about how long it's going to take me to walk a mile, but rather enjoying the walk while reaching my goal. I actually hear the sounds around me, the wind, the birds, the ocean crashing against the rocks. I have greater appreciation for the nature that surrounds me. I feel spiritually and physically opened to my mind and soul and I'm taking SMALL steps to make BIG changes to better my life.

So whoever said superwoman isn't real???...........they lied, because we have this "SUPERWOMAN" in all of us! We just need to take the time out of our busy busy lives to listen and feel our inner self speaking to us.

Swimming at Auntie Day..da's....

2009-04-04T21:48:00.000-07:00

Amaya trying to sneak a ride on Tony's boogie board

Jaron enjoying the side walk chalk............

His art!

His discovery!

Kennan playing bubbles!

Beautiful Audrey!

Silly Fou and Anton relaxin in this freezing cold water...

Double Shot

My handsome Mar Mar and silly crazy Fou......

Kennan showing off his hands...........

Little Aryn...smiling after ripping off someone's paddle! Crazy girl!

So I had some extra time to hang with my kids + my neice and nephews! I took them up to Dayla's house while we hung out and swam! It was really nice to celebrate the last few days of spring break, before school is back in session! OH YES!,,,It's been a very long 2 weeks, but jam packed with activities, family visits, etc!...I'm ready to get back in the game!

Mariteragi Family comes to Kona Town!

2009-03-30T12:17:00.001-07:00

Kids out of the Pool, "No swimming on Sunday"!!!!

Does dipping your feet in Count???

Even the twins were tempted.....

Setting Up!

Dinner at the Larai Dumaguins Home...sorry no swimming on Sunday's

Caught Clint putting away chairs with Mana........the best clean up crew

Lucy and Clint's daughter...."Hiridau"..sp?? Isn't she so cute?

Mariteragi Boys...Teahu and Carson.......

Friends Forever...Lucy and Keers...I was so glad to spend the little time we had with them! it's always fun catching up! I love this girl! I cant' believe we've been friends since uh 6th grade, only to see our kids now playing with eachother! Ughh makes me feel old! We tried to meet up on their families vacation to Kona, but never got around to what we planned. So they invited us over to the Dumaguins for Sam Kekuaokalani's 5th daughters baby blessing dinner! We took over a pot of Kalua Pig and Cabbage and endulged in a spread of ONOLICIOUS Food prepared by their family! Kudo's to Sam's cinnamon butter cake and Richards crazy soft thick loaves of homemade bread! It's fun to be hosted by someone else this time! Thanks everyone!

Day off with DADDY!

2009-03-27T22:15:00.000-07:00

"Mom are we going right now"???He loves this little rocking thing

BRITEX carseats tend to be so comfortable........................obviously!

Mana not feeling so hot, just coming home from his doctors appointment....strepthroat and sinus infection!

Girls with their "DaDDY"..

Family Time..

"MOM, I want to go on it now"!!!

Say cheese Kennan

My sweet baby girls!

My poor husband...got so sick that he took OFF from work today, so he could see a doctor! Only to find out that he has strepthroat and a pretty crazy sinus infection! ..He's so thoughtful to have came with us, even with as bad as he was feeling to be there watching our kids burn off some energy!

We got some JUNKFOOD and hung out at the pavillion with our little IPOD speakers playin the jams! The air was PERFECT for a "PARK Day with the Fam...

Hauula Town comes to Kona Town

2009-03-26T12:54:00.000-07:00

O dogg and his wifey Maya Lookin Hot...

Kerry forever makin me die from laughter...

and obviously Fala too

Joe Mannn...

Setting up shop in the yard...

These two FWAMZ

kEAHI AND mANA SITT'N AT THE DOCK OF THE BAY!

mY SWEETY AND HIS SPOILED BRATS

This is my favorite look that Mana gives me! ......................

FALA THROWING A CONCERT

eVERYONE ENJOYING THE MUSIC

hAUULA FO LIFE

tHE BOYS LINED UP FOR A PHOTO

jUMP JUMP JUMP

fOU, JONAH, AND mAKANA SCRUBBING UP THE LEFT OVERS...

mY BABY PLANKIN AWAY

i LOVE THIS SHOT

GO BABY GO

OBESSED WITH GOLF

GO BABY GO

FALA AND jOE

Rich Man Poor Man

Kanikapila outside in the "BACK"

HILTON WAIKOLOA...shops

WE swam in this............. Auntie Maya and Kennan boy

CRACKIN UP HARD....

FUNNY FACES.........................saying goodbye to the Kahana family

Pretty girls having fun

Goodbye to Kerry!

Our Hauula gang came up for their annual golf tournament with the boys, and it turned out to be a fun filled week of stomach crunching laff'n, eating over and over, stayin up late til the we hours of the morning...and gettin caught up and err...ones lives!

It's the best to have all of these visitors crammed into our house, making our house feeel so much love within our walls! We had a big pot luck at our house and everyone was able to come over and enjoy the great food that was prepared! We got to hang out with Keahi's family at the HILTON WAIKOLOA...and it was perfect and refreshing to swim in their beautiful pool!

It's always sad to say goodbye but we are looking forward to next years gathering! See everyone next year...all our love.........................the pula's

2009-03-15T00:20:00.000-07:00

Getting our things situated in Windy, Cold, Waimea........

Fou, Tia and Makana........

Before the game Mar tells us to move closer

My poor Mar Mar sprained his ankle ...rushed him to the ER after his game to get a splint put on it..he was such a trooper..on crutches for the next few days...He is so brave! My little love bug...

My sisters and I with our Cheering gear on..........

E...towering over his auntie...he's so handsome yeah!!!!

The only time you'll see my kids wearing sweaters...Waimea was so cold!

Getting their rights read to them..before they play Waimea's team..the boys did so good today! My crazy children.
Jaron taking a turn at the UKE...he's so into it...

Woke up at 6 a.m., Packed lunches, Loaded the Van up...got our kids ready and we were out the door to Waimea for Amari's Rugby game! I am so proud of him. He really did well, even though he sprained his ankle. This is Mar's first year playing a contact sport like Rugby..and he's really done well. He'll be out on Crutches for a few days, so no school for him and I'm sure he's not complaining either!!

It was rainy, windy, sunny, cloudy...off and on all day today..It felt like we were driving through curtains of rain, then all of sudden sun out of no where...cold breeze, then rain, it was nutz..but all in all a beautiful day! We came home and was greeted by a rain party in Kona and decided to cuddle up on the couch and watch movies! So nice!

Funnies for ya!

2009-03-13T01:39:00.000-07:00

This is Kennan's camera face.............Isn't he the funniest little kid....I love this face!

I went to Costco today to just Exchange some vitamins that I bought........but instead everything on the shelves started calling me by name......then a few more things actually started JUMPING inside of my cart...no serious........ So MUCH for just EXCHANGING HUH???

Chillen with Daddy at work before he starts..........they love daddy

The twins had a field trip to the Library today with their pre school group...They had books read to them...in so many fun ways! The little songs were so catchy.

This was the best song..."Flip flap jack".......the boys loved it! It was so much fun!

Mommy's and Movie Night Out....

2009-03-13T01:27:00.000-07:00

Grubb'n with the Girls....Mexican style...

Then headed over to watch that movie "New In Town"...we totally cracked up! It was such a great feel good movie. Thank you to all of our husbands for appreciating us enough, that they babysat our children while we took off for the evening together. This was a great group of ladies to chill with. My sister Jill "IN PURPLe"...thank you for driving...so glad that I went!

On Sunday...............

2009-03-10T01:47:00.000-07:00

We got our cutie patootie's ready for Church....

Then we got ourselves ready too..........

We snapped a few more million dollar shots of the kids

Then posed again for the camera............gosh...

The we came home after being spiritually fed...we needed some physical Food, and the girls helped me in the kitchen........making their all time fav's Hamburger Patties........

MMmmmmmmmmmm...you can never go wrong with these............this is how you do it right here...we made some tofu kim chee, cornbread stuffing and Rice............it was perfect for this evening.......

My girls are such big helpers, and wanted to show off their patties that they made........

Then our good friend Kylene who is visiting from Seattle, came to say good bye..with Vanilla Ice cream and Mugz root beer for the perfect combo of the best Root beer float.........mmmm

On Saturday...............

2009-03-10T01:10:00.001-07:00

This Very Busy Mommy, had a very busy Weekend................

I thought this was the cutest shot of Kennan Falling asleep on our ride home at the end of our day...

WE went to KIMO KAHANU's mission farewell Party in Hawaiian HOMEs.....Elias, Efrum...and Kennan boy...kickin back at Kimo's Luncheon

Elder Tepoki shows off his Maori culture by sharing a very enthusiastic HAKA...with the missionaries in our stake...............It was HOT...they all really had tons of Energy!

Aryn...had her placement test to attend a local private school here called Hualalai Academy

This is just how confident, vibrant, and beautiful this little 4 year old is........

Then we headed over to Amari's very first Rugby game...Uncle Raymond is one of the Coaches...and here is giving orders right from where he stands...

Our Big Ol family...camped on the sidelines amongst music playin the back of us, BBQ going on in the Parking Lot...while the rain poured down..............So fun.........

The boys played against Hilo...man those were some really tough let alone HUGE 12 year olds...

This is what happens when you forget your camera!

2009-03-05T19:10:00.001-08:00

Amari, Anton and Elias after "Rugby" Practice..................all stink and dirty!!!

Uncle Raymond warning the boys that their faces will look like his if they come to practice late...

Everyone...getting down and dirty.................

Okay every now and againa I forget my camera...and always have to steal photos from Tara's page...so these are a few that we took yesterday at our sons Rugby practice! It's so much fun to see everyone competing! Shoot, I was tired just watching them do small kine drills...Whoooo...

I'm so excited for Game Day...this Saturday!

A few new things!

2009-03-04T13:08:00.000-08:00

My kids love to spill things on my WHITE carpet...thank goodness for RESOLVE carpet cleaner to undo the spills and bring my carpet back to life! But I found this carpet at Costco for a steal and thought I'd add it to the front room so both area's have a throw rug!...I love it!

I found this cutey patooty surfer girl bedroom set at ROSS of all places marked down...all the way down and couldn't resisit picking it up!...The comforter is THIN which makes it perfect to have living in Hawaii! I love the cute little pillows that come with it!

Just wanted to share a few of my new little things with you....

BBQ'n at our Place...!

2009-03-01T09:34:00.000-08:00

Mar in the teenage stage of attitude...even though he'll only be turning 11

O's always are BBQ'er he makes the best of any meat....good job on this one...

Javen, Dayla and Tara

Javen first time to Hawaii Period...and Kaela was just loved by my daughters!

BAby tony and Maya...grubbin on some spicy Bean dip.................Wow!

Catch'n O and day makin a plate...................

Uncle Jake and Audrey scoopin some Furikaki spam and crab rice squares...

Maya........................Kylene.....................and Day...........so fun..

We put the keiki's out in the garage to spill their food in an area that we could HOSE it down on...not on my carpet..........no way................

My baby girl being cuddle by her auntie....still not feeling well.

This is my little but "HUGANITIC 14 Yr old NePHEW"....Efrum....I love him to pieces!

I'm takin a break in the Kitchen to pose for a picture with friends...I love these guys!

This bundle of joy "Siueli" is only 2 months old is Titi and Jarom Hao's first baby girl! She stole everyone's heart! Such a beautiful little girl! Good Genes man.....

Jarom and Titi....so cute! Thank you for taking the time to come and hang out with us! It was so fun having you over!

Our family gets together as often as we can, even though we live only minutes from one another! It's "Vital" somtimes to come over and grub too, especially when good friends are in town! Titi and Jarom Ha'o came from Oahu, with their 2 month old daughter "ELI". She is beautiful and everyone was fighting over her! Our dear family friend Kylene came with her husband Javen and their 2 yr old daughter Kaela all the way from Seattle! It was so much fun, having good spirits in our home mingling together it always turns out great! Welp we were snapping away like the paparazzi last night... Thank you everyone for coming over. It's always so much fun to get together!

2009-02-28T01:07:00.000-08:00

These two little boys are so handsome and so sweet....even when they......
Fall asleep in random places like on the living room couch...so comfortable and cute!

or in Mommy and Daddy's room at the same time............................

But sometimes, those cute little moments turn into terror...at times like this...

Oh yeah.....while mommy was taking a shower...they decided to have a party with all of the paper in the shredder (It was unplugged) and they dug all of the paper out of the bin...and

trashed the whole house with it.....this was all over my house.........................ughhhh,

My poor baby has been home from School for the past week...she's got a really bad bug righ now...I had to catch her sleeping off some of those germs in the living room! She looks so peaceful!

This was at around 5 p.m. on the front street of our home....

Sun spraying it's ray's on the front of our house!

and the sweet winds blowing down our street..................it was so beautiful...perfect ending to a crazy day!

My New Hair....

2009-02-27T10:29:00.000-08:00

BEFORE.....................................

Snap the the camera and.............

Flick.........................

Flick.........................................

Okay, so I promised some pix of my new hair do...I just needed to be modernized and feel apart of the world again and out of the pulled back pony tail that seems to take over my life when things get wayyy too hectic! LOL...anyway I walked into the salon, sat in the chair and said cut away...after about 8 inches gone and lots of thinning of my hair...VOILA and I am a happy wife, mom, whatever you want to say! I"m just Happy! I can do so much with it, so many styles...but in like 1/2 the time it took me to do it before! I'm kinda digg'n the short thing again! One thing you should know about me...I love NEW HAIR...and will always do something fun to it....enjoy

Had to snag this one!

2009-02-24T15:35:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of our twin baby boys that my sister Tara took at her house! Man, they are so cute..........................SOMETIMES....LOL!. Kennan is in the Red shirt and Jaron is wearing the blue one...! It's never planned to put them in those colors but it somehow usually ends up that way...

Over the Weekend!

2009-02-23T13:22:00.000-08:00

My sweetie and I after church on the lawn!...he's so hott!

This what makes it so nice to live close to family! The whole brood after church!..............

Wayy to fun baby shower for Frannie...we had a great time!...

Over the weekend we attended a baby shower for a friend of ours Frannie Hooper that was held at the Aholelei's Home in Pua'anahulu! My girlfriend Dayla babysat our tribe while I headed out for some girl time! I had so much fun, it truly was an enjoyable evening! The Aholelei's have a beautiful home, and the breeze was just right up there in the colder climates! While I was away enjoying myself...Dayla and Jake took our kids to Waikoloa to walk on the Kings Trails...I left my van home so they'd have enough room to take all of my babies! I cooked a big pot of Spaghetti, Brownies and Rosemary Olive oil bread for them to enjoy while I was away! They all loved it!

I finally bought a charger so here are some photos for you to enjoy over our weekend!

Totally got TAGGED by MEGAN...

2009-02-21T16:47:00.000-08:00

Game Rules:
1. go to your pictures
2. Go to your 6th picture folder
3. find your 6th picture and Blog about what was happening in that photo!

I tag....
Whoever reads my blog today!.

While I was looking through my file folders I was hoping that I wasn't going to find a "Dumb" Photo!!! that I'd have to blog about...so glad it was this one!

First of all I was so so so so so single in here and just barely moved back to Seattle about 5 years ago from living on the Big Island. It was such a huge adjustment for my kids. I can't believe how small they are in here...My kids were all under the age of 5 I'm not sure how I raised those kids on my own then! This picture was taken at a funeral of a loved family friend Uncle Manu Baker! It was such a beautiful service! That's my daddy in the middle holding my babies and my brother Owen and his wife Maya! Wow! everyone looks so different! Thanks for tagging me Meg...

Pizza at the Park...

2009-02-20T23:34:00.000-08:00

A few hours after I wrote about my fabulous Mommy day at M.O.P.S, I ended up waiting for all of my kids to make it home from school. It was one of those days that I felt like just hanging out! We grabbed a large pizza from Costco a couple fruit smoothies and headed down to the park for some Pizza in the Park. It was a little later than usual around 4:30 p.m. The air was perfect with a Cool consistant breeze, a little overcast but it was beautiful! To my amazement the Park was actually PACKED...

My kids love going to the park, and they pretty much ran out of the van once I turned the ignition off! There were several baseball, rugby and soccer games happening in the midst of our arrival. My friend Dayla joined us and it was so fun cracking up about all of the funnies that happened to us today! We hung out until the street lights came on..the kids were pretty mad about their fun being cut short. It was a bummer that I had to share over the phone with my husband about how perfect TONIGHT was at the Park, rather than him being with us. But we understand that DADDY has to work...so it's not a problem.

I don't have any pictures up, because I lost my charger for my camera...but I'm finally going to go and pick one up tomorrow...anyway hope you enjoy the jots down in my blogger today.

M.O.P.S "Mothers of Preschoolers Program"

2009-02-20T14:26:00.000-08:00

I was invited to come to this program called M.O.P.S. "(Mothers of Preschoolers) by another "MOM" ,Shawna who attends the same traveling preschool that my twins go to twice a week. Today was my first day, and I'm so glad that I went. It's really a day for us WOMEN to rejuvenate ourselves as Mothers and Wives of our households. It was very welcoming to arrive, sign in and get our little ones dropped off into the daycare rooms of their age group. They wear a cute little blue sticker that you fill out and then stick on their back, that tells the care taker what their name is and who their mom is and where your actually seated! So in case they need to find you, it's all on there for them! It's actually really nice! But for me it was reassuring to know that they would be okay.

I was seated at the tiger table or the "TWINS" table near other mothers who also have multiples like me! Our tables were decorated so beautifully, it was rather nice being able to have a couple hours for ME and only me. We had a fabulous breakfast spread...which is traded off in groups every other week. I just took a huge bite of the most yummiest chilli corn muffin, when my name was called for a door prize!...It was so cool, I won some fun CD's and video's for the twins! Yay..MOMMY..We also did a fun craft together and had a group discussion about different questions that other women submitted pertaining to parenting. The Questions were read aloud and discussed with us as a whole.

I believe what took from today's class was the question about "How do we make our dinner time more resourceful for our children?"....What I learned is that I need to be a better LISTENER to my children. I know sometimes while I'm getting dinner ready, my children will come to me randomly and fire off questions at me that I can't necessarily answer at that moment. I learned today after hearing other encouraging words that I can really create a stronger line of communication with my children if I just take those few minutes to "LISTEN" to whatever it is that they want to share with me at that MOMENT rather than telling them to WAIT and trying to hurry to get dinner made, the house cleaned, etc....It can also be a great time for my children to get in there with me and help out, while I'm getting dinner ready for our family! That was my AHA moment for today and I'm sure other mothers had their own AHA's with questions they had about other situations of concern.

The twins did okay in their classes, being that this was their very FIRST time that they were ever babysat by someone else other than my family.............they cried a bit here and there and I forgot to mention that even with your crying babies"........they have what they call "RUNNERS"...they are individual people who go and to check on your babies for you while your relaxing in your discussion groups. They will actually be the ones that PEEK in on your little ones and they'll come back and let you know how they are doing...so your kids don't freak out and scream as soon as you pop your head in their classroom!...Last bit of advice...this is nationwide program, so find out where the nearest group is in your area, it's so fun! There is a small fee of $53.00 for the year, but I'm sure you'll enjoy it. Thank you Shawna for inviting me today! I had a great time!

Valentines Day!

2009-02-16T01:16:00.000-08:00

I have been taking tons of pictures since Grandma Val has been visiting...and thought that I'd post them on here...but to my surprise, I never had my memory card inside of my camera the whole time...including during our wonderful valentines day dinner last night!!! YIKES...

I'm pretty bummed about it, but maybe I can make a better impression using words...it'll just have to do!

I spent most of my day running errands with the kids and Grandma Val. I really wanted to get everything ready for her while she watched our kids for the evening. So I picked up a few things for dinner, cleaned up, got the kids settled, then I took off to the Salon for some "LOVE" that I so desperately needed! I cut about 6 inches of hair off and whipped up a cute little "DO" and treated myself to an overdue PEDDY~ My feet have never felt so great! I came home met my sweetie, and we double dated with My brother and his wife for King Kamehameha's seafood buffet. I'm not a crab lover but I did enjoy watching Maya and Mana get DOWN on some crab legs! We ate until we could no longer breathe and then we hung out at the beach until midnight just laughing and cracking up! It was such a nice evening, and I'm kicking myself in the Butt for not having my memory card in my camera!! Ughhhh

Anyway, it was stake conference today, and my sisters and I swapped kids...so I have Tara's two boys, Jill's son, and my three girls and Tara's daughter and other son Ephraim went with Jill! It's nice for the kids to get away too! I made a BOMB turkey tonight with the most Chewiest chocolate brownies...MMMMMMmmmmm and I'm turning in for the night!

It's a boy for Fran and Quinton Hooper!

2009-02-13T20:29:00.000-08:00

Brown and Blue is so appropriate for this Baby shower

Trampoline and Teather ball keep the kids busy!

Kennan boy lovin the cool air in Puanahulu

Quinton being a good sport dressing up in all the bows from the gifts!

Man, I can't believe Amari is this big....I love him so much!

Audrey always so full of life,

Proud Parents, can't wait until their baby gets here

Mar and Makana really having so much fun together...

The twins on the little slide.....luv'n it!

Putt'n my hammer to work!

2009-02-13T00:14:00.001-08:00

My sister Jill, counting her blocks she needed

KOna 2nd Ward Relief Society...gett'n busy

My sister Tara gettin started...lining up her nails..

And this is ME...hammering away to bring home my proud box to show my hubby that I can actually build something...Yay

The strength of the sisters in our Kona 2nd..

The finished product......

Tonight at Enrichment night in our Ward...us sisters made our very own "Garden Boxes"...the wood and the fillers inside were pre-cut for us by brethren in our ward..so all we had to do was partner up and get to hammer'n! Man after a couple tries at nail'n it in...I was really appreciating my husband a whole lot and wishing he wasn't working so he could help me out! But luckily Olani and my Bro. inlaw tony came to the rescue when we got stuck! I totally value my husbands craftsmanship after givn' a few wacks to our garden boxes with the hammer tonight!...about 25 sisters signed up! It was great...all of us on the floor making a garden box to take home! I love our ward, I'm a little bias because it is so different being a member of this gospel in the Islands! I've lived on the mainland for the majority of my life and I don't believe we have this same kind of connection like we do in Hawaii! My older son Amari had cub scouts at the chapel, so it made out to be a long evening for the kids! They had babysitting, so our kids were able to hang out with Iris in the nursery while we built our boxes! Then they had the best dinner following our "gettin' all rough wit our hammers"..of chicken enchilda's with fresh toppings of cherry tomatoes, mango salsa, feta cheese, beans, tortillas, parmesean egg plant casserole and chocolate brownies...Yum OH...by 9:30 we wrapped it up and I drove home with a van full of sleepy kids!..It's times like these that you want your kids to stay young forever! I can hardly believe that I'm going to be 31 this October!! Where has the time really gone? Today made me very grateful and thankful for all that I have in my life!

Chicken soup for the Mothers Soul!

2009-02-07T00:36:00.000-08:00

I've been reading the book Chicken soup for the Mother's Soul lately, and there have been so many stories that have touched my heart! Some sad, and others gave me a reality check with certain situations with my own children! All in all my Chicken Soup for today came from our twins who are 2 yrs old! They have their own way of communication with one another, but have become so much more vocal now.
It's fun to hear them actually have a conversation with us!..A little different for me to not be pregnant while having a 2 yr old running around the house, or not having to work outside the home or to actually be able to have this time with the twins. I've always worked outside of the home with my other children and a part of me feels like I definitely missed out a huge chunk their life. I missed this time that I have right now with our twins. I'm very fortunate to have a husband that works and allows me to be home with our children to raise them. It's very rare these days that we see that happen anymore in families! Honey, thank you for giving me this opportunity to be apart of our children everyday! This is all temporary sweetie! I love you so much, you are a spectacular husband, I feel so lucky to have you as my eternal partner!

I'm on a mission to make my own personal chicken soup memories!

A few funnies from the twins vocab

Tee All pau= See All done

Tennen= Jaron calling Kennan

Pop= Lollipop

Ukulele= Anything that they can hold against their body and strum like a ukulele

Go see Sissy= Pick Aryn up from School

Come go Au Au= I want to take a bath

Go-Peesh=goldfish crackers

My friend Shauna from Seattle came to visit!

2009-02-02T00:03:00.001-08:00

No pictures please

Kennan smiles before running into the water

Audrey loves to dig around in my make up bag...she knows the only thing she can use is my gloss

How much more prettier can this beach be????????????

Our kids making friends with some Tourist kids from Europe

My glamour girls gett'n ready for Church

Mommy and Honeybee playing with the Camera

Attached to Auntie Shauna

Playing with Kennan in the Tide Pools,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Mommy and Honeybee being silly before Church

Jaron spots a few Black crabs on the rocks , on a mission and not worried that his pants are falling!

Shauna submerged in the warm water in Hawaii

Getting ready to swim..............

These guys are Hams!

Auntie Dayla and Aryn at Kukio Beach putt'n on Sunscreen

Sweet Kennan Boy ready to go Swimming

Everyone coming from Auntie Shauna's Beachhouse Audrey posing on Auntie's Porch.........

Look at those waves behind us...............

My friend from Way back in the day, Shauna Lenoble came to Hawaii for the first time this past weekend! It's been a few years since we've seen one another, and it was so awesome being able to show her around our little town! She couldn't believe how warm the water was at the Beach, and how beautiful everything was! It made me really thankful that I am able to live here on this gorgeous island! It was fun catching up on old memories and new ones too. In fact Dayla, Shauna and I all went to the same High school in Washington, so it was pretty crazy all of us hanging out this weekend in Kona...who would've ever thought? We have to do this again Shauna!...

2009-01-31T00:35:00.000-08:00

Are these not the cutest cards! I had so much fun gathering photos throughout the year to put together...It's always so hard to get my whole family together to be happy all at the same time, just to take a yearly family photo... a collage was just going to have to work this year! I have a few friends here who haven't gotten theirs yet, but for those of you who haven't recieved theirs it's on it's way in the mail and here is a preview for ya! Again Happy Belated New Year Friends...enjoy

I found these pictures that I never posted....

2009-01-29T22:30:00.000-08:00

I found these fun pictures when we were acting like Tourists and took our kids to the Sheraton Keahou Resorts. We had so much fun watching our kids go down their huge waterslide, sippin colas down by the pool, scarff'n down burgers and fries! It was great, we had a great time! Very memorable time for us, so I thought that I'd share them with you!

Having Lunch by the Pool Keahou Sheraton Resort

Jaron so happy to go swimming

The view from our Room

Family Breakfast

Family shot

Signed, Sealed Delivered...they are on their way!

2009-01-28T20:56:00.000-08:00

Hey People....

My Belated new year photo cards are printed and out in the mail!

Thank you so much for emailing your addy's to me...you should see them in the mail in the next week or so...They are adorable! I really loved them and so will you!

Be checkin your mail..........

ILOA's were in Town.....

2009-01-24T20:43:00.001-08:00

For those of you who grew up with them...you know how much fun and crazy "The Iloa's" are! And if you from Hau'ula then you know how things are done and it's just understood! Well we had the luxury of having Maile and Joe and Joe's daughter Il'e visit us this past weekend! Since the Laie Temple is closed for the next 18 months, this makes the perfect excuse to have visitors here on the Big Island to attend the temple with!....Maile, who is everyone's BIG SISTER recently lost about 85 lbs and looks just beautiful! Joe brought his daughter to hang out with my kids, they had so much fun together~ Joe and Mana took one day to play a round of golf, we made some fabulous grindz and enjoyed desserts, movies, games, and plenty of laughing with everyone!

Today Maile and I took in an early morning session at our Temple then took a 2 hour drive to Hilo to visit another friend, Maria Waite. When we arrived at Maria's the aroma of her mothers famous baked rolls permiated the house! We found Sister Waite in the Kitchen,cooking her famous thanksgiving spread for Maria's baby's first birthday party! Man,everything was top Notch as always! We even had time to stop in at the "Two ladies kitchen" to get the best MOCHI in town! WOO HOO...it's always sad to see everyone go...but we are so lucky to have had some great company this weekend! Can't wait to see them again.....Maile, Thank you again so much, for everything, it's always a blast!

Maile relaxing with "IL'e" while joe and mana went for a round of golf!

NO....that is not Kristy....it's Maile....no seriously does she not look amazing????

Joe is laying down the rules for the "What if Game?"

They love their freedom in the backyard..........

OMGoshness....Playing the "What IF" game...in the living room with everyone!

The girls being silly in their room.................

We love our backyard..............................and we hang out so much together

Baby Tony, Amaya, baby maile, and Aryn playing baseball in the backyard!

Getting ready for the "Low Blows"...in the game of "What if?"....... It got wayy out of hand, and laughing way too hard!