Da'Gorgeouses

Isn't it Romantic?

2011-01-19T21:34:00.000-08:00

Super cute ideas by Jessica over at Craftily Ever After, but the cutest thing I've seen by far is her free Valentine's Day Subway Art click on over & check it out! P.S. Our high school is gearing up for their Valentine's Day dance & I'm thinking her felt rose decor flowers would be PERFECT for their decorations!

Giveaway @ Simple As That

2010-07-19T22:58:00.000-07:00

AWESOME give away SUMMER FUN WEEK @ SIMPLE AS THAT blog...head over to check it out! Day 1 Florabella Actions Gift Certificate (now available for PSE). :) Hooray!!

Sock Monkeys!

2010-04-12T21:39:00.000-07:00

There is an awesome giveaway at www.go4prophotos.com for a sweet sock monkey template design by All Things Baby (www.allthingsbaby.biz) and I want to win it! Sure I'm not a pro photographer, but how cute would this be to send out pics of Da'Gorgeouses? LOL!

Epiphanie Giveaway...

2010-03-23T22:15:00.000-07:00

EPIPHANIE IS GIVING AWAY YOUR CHOICE OF

A BRAND NEW CANON 5D MARK II!

OR

A $2500 GIFT CERTIFICATE TO SOUTHWEST AIRLINES!!!

Check it out @ http://www.haveanepiphanie.com/home/2010/2/28/epiphanie-give-away.html?lastPage=true&postSubmitted=true

I'm Doing This!

2010-02-15T16:29:00.001-08:00

Originally uploaded by h e i d i b u r t o n

I saw this on the kind over matter flickr pool & I've decided I'm going to be participating. What better way to get over that dreary yuck feeling than to pass on a little kindness & make someone's day a little brighter! Join me in paying it forward...who knows, it just might come right back to you!

Thank You!

2010-01-15T21:42:00.000-08:00

A BIG thank you that have been sending prayers our way. Da'Gorgeouses have had a much smoother time of it these past 2 nights. Whew...'cause I was beginning to wonder from the way they were acting out at night if someone had stolen my children & replaced them with wild, temper-tantrum maniacs.

If You Wouldn't Mind...

2010-01-12T22:48:00.001-08:00

Lately I seem to be struggling in my role as MOM 2 Da'Gorgeouses. Of course it doesn't help that they seem to have entered that stage where everything is a challenge, a struggle for independence and a down-right battle of wills. I'm grateful that they're healthy and for the most part well-behaved, but when they put their mind to it, they can REALLY make me CRAZy! Bedtime in particular is difficult. So if you remember and have a chance, could send a few prayers my way? I'd be much obliged to you---right now I can use all the help I can get!

We Didn't Disappear...

2009-09-24T22:50:00.000-07:00

We didn't disappear off of the face of the Earth, but I am having a very difficult time juggling work, mommyhood, wifehood and the rest. I hope to settle into things soon and be back to posting on a slightly more regular schedule. I'm still taking pics every now and then, but am finding it difficult to find time to process and post.

Thanks for checking in on us!

July 1 Hotel Pics...

2009-07-28T22:15:00.000-07:00

With the wild world of busy busy around here, it's taken awhile to get some of my
photos edited and uploaded. These are a few pics taken at the hotel we stayed at
when we went to Sea World. Da'Gorgeouses loved it and the weather was
AMAZING!!

Pics From Sea World...

2009-07-22T22:31:00.000-07:00

June 30, 2009

I always dreamed of becoming a marine biologist &
working at Sea World. Instead I majored in biology
and married a marine! LOL!!

I didn't know that we'd get to visit with
Elmo, Zoe, Abby & Grover!
Da'Gorgeouses had a BLAST!!

Too Cute Not To Post Here...

2009-07-22T22:27:00.000-07:00

You always know someone loves you when they send you a GREAT email like this one!

This is something we should all read at least once a week!

Written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland , Ohio

"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me.
It is the most-requested column I've ever written."
My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once
more:

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick.
Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch..

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea
what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't
be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But
don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But
the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life,
don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie.
Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In
five years, will this matter?'

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of
anything you did or didn't do.

35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood.

38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved..

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone
else's,we'd grab ours back.

41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

42. The best is yet to come.

43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

44. Yield.

45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."

AMEN!!

For My Sis...

2009-07-21T15:41:00.000-07:00

I must have taken 20 of these, and wouldn't you know that I liked
the FIRST one the BEST?!

Our New Family Pic...

2009-07-20T23:58:00.000-07:00

Hmm...Wanna Guess Who Had a Hard Day?

2009-07-20T22:44:00.000-07:00

Not a single tear, no whining, no complaints, as a matter of fact...we had to REMIND them to give us a kiss as we dropped them off at their first day of preschool today!! Being the cautious mommy that I am, I packed their backpacks with TWO sets of clothes this morning and I'm happy to report that BOTH sets came back (yes, mom, we told our teacher we needed to go potty). HOORAY!!

Okay, so I will admit, I'm SUPER proud of them...and I'll also admit that both DrillSgt. and I had a hard time with it all today. We both complained of feeling nauseous, of tightness in our chests, and of slightly watery eyes (which magically disappeared as soon as we walked in to pick them up). We wondered if we should call and check in on them, we had a difficult time knowing what to do without them (let's just say the laundry basket is finally empty), and the house was so quiet I had to turn on the music. We said we'd pick them up at 4pm and then ended up getting there at 3:30 (it's just down the street from our house---LOL!!) I'm seriously glad that they handled it well, and I'm really happy that we started a few weeks early and I didn't have to worry about their first day at preschool AND my first day back at work.

Secretly, I'm also happy that they were both ready to come home too!

LongRifle said, "Come on mom, let's go home!"

Update...Sorry...

2009-07-17T22:14:00.000-07:00

So sorry I've neglected you all. Here's the lowdown since my last post...

Potty training is going VERY well. LongRifle took to it quickly and has done EXTREMELY well (minus an accident here and there---but few and far between). Pistol has taken a little longer, and for awhile we seemed to be headed in reverse with those Pull-ups, so Grammy gave me the suggestion of going COLD turkey on the pull-ups when out and about, and wouldn't you know, IT WORKED!! She's had an almost SPOTLESS record this week! HOORAY!!

I turned 39 at the end of last month, I don't feel any older and made the mistake of telling someone I was still 38 (not on purpose I just don't think this year's birthday really registered).

We took Da'Gorgeouses to Sea World and had a WONDERFUL time!

Da'Gorgeouses just finished their 2 weeks of swimming lessons & they're signed up for 2 more!

They start preschool on Monday *sniff, sniff*

We went camping with DrillSgt's family for TWO nights and had a BLAST!!

I signed my official contract this week and know WHERE I'll be at and that I'll be teaching science (I just don't know what courses exactly and what grade levels exactly---the school is 7-12).

Hope you are all having a busy, wonderful summer too!

More to follow...

MCP Actions Lens Giveaway!!

2009-07-08T14:12:00.000-07:00

Seriously cool!! MCP Actions is giving away a Tamron lens to one lucky winner! The WINNER chooses from the 18-270mm (for a crop sensor Nikon or Canon) or the 28-300mm (for a full frame Nikon or Canon). I'd love to win one & if I don't, well then I'd love one of you to win one!

To enter, you will need to do the following:

- Post to your blog, twitter and/or facebook about this contest (let people know how to enter and provide a link). Hmm...I'm thinking I might need to join facebook, any suggestions or advice?

- Go back to mcpactions.com/blog and leave a comment writing where you posted (with link so that it can be verified if your post is picked from the random drawing)

- In your comment, please write why you want to win this lens, where you would want to most the lens, and for fun tell them how many lenses you currently own.

Hurry, and head on over to http://mcpactions.com/blog/

These Must Have Been the Looks...

2009-06-27T08:28:00.000-07:00

I should probably just get over it, because truthfully it could be the case, but dang it, it just really offends me! You might be wondering what I'm talking about, well, it happened again. DrillSgt. and I took Da'Gorgeouses out for lunch yesterday (and yes, we were on the other side of town again--the same side it happened the first time) and our cute, really young waitress asked as we were leaving, "Are they your granddaughters?" I must have had one, if not BOTH of the following looks on my face!

Of course I just managed to stammer out, "No, we just started late. I'll be 39 in a few days." If she only knew what I'd been through to even get them. I really have to come up with something clever to say, any suggestions?

In Case You Were Wondering...

2009-06-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

She did make it ALL the way up. Only I had to put my camera down and head over there (just in case) because my heart wouldn't stop trying to beat itself right out of my chest, my stomach was doing flip-flops and I won't even tell you what else was happening to me as I watched her attempt all of these! LOL!!

Awww...I Love Her Too!

2009-06-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I'm just very lucky and happen to catch just the sweetest moments! Here's Pistol and my aunt (TiaTela) whom I happen to love very much too!

She's a super great aunt and a wonderful person. My mom's youngest sis and only a few years older than me. She's shared many a secret of mine along the way, and has often been the first to hear many a good news (and not so good news) from me. I know exactly why Da'Gorgeouses love her so much!

I couldn't decide whether I liked the color or b&w the best, so I posted them both!

A Day @ The Park In Sepia

2009-06-16T21:08:00.001-07:00

June 16th~ I ♥ Faces: Sepia Toned

2009-06-16T15:13:00.001-07:00

I had a difficult time choosing which sepia toned photo I wanted to enter into the I ♥ Faces Sepia contest this week. I decided this one spoke to me the most. I totally love the fact that, for the most part, Da'Gorgeouses get along so well. Makes me feel better about having them later in life, at least they'll have each other!

For more cool sepia toned pics check out the I ♥ Faces website...you're sure to be impressed!

Adventures In Boot Camp Potty Training...

2009-06-12T22:35:00.000-07:00

Sprry I've been MIA for the last few days I've been knee & elbow deep in bodily fluids--just kidding! But I will tell you that this will be a post WITHOUT pictures---LOL!!.

I worked Monday decided I'd finish all my paperwork come hell or high water and start my lovely summer vacation. I also decided that this Wednesday I'd begin our rigorous boot camp potty training (or as DrillSgt. would name it BCPT). Btw, thanks to Grammy, LongRifle had already been pottying in the morning for about a week, but she kept telling me any time I asked her later in the day "I already went potty mamá". Since I was still working I decided not to push the issue. Tuesday we headed to the library and I asked my friend for some advice, she shared that m&m's worked well for her daughter. I also decided that we'd go cold turkey on the diapers during the day (except for naptime & nighttime where we'd be using pull-ups) and we'd only be wearing Princess chonies (underwear).

Here's the run-down so far:

Day 1:

LongRifle goes potty in am, Pistol refuses (we sat for quite awhile). I tell them IF they pee in the potty they will get a sticker to put on, one for their chart (for free potty charts click here I used this one) and an (yes ONE) m&m.

I then put them in Princess chonies (which they were happy about) told them not to pee-pee on the Princesses and head off to make breakfast. Pistol follows me into the kitchen, squeezes her legs together and pees on the floor (so glad we have linoleum)! I scoop her up, run her to the bathroom, sit her on the potty where she does a mini-trickle of whatever was left. I make a BIG deal of her tiny trickle, give her the Aurora sticker she's been waiting for, we wash her hands, give her the m&m, and go put a sticker on her chart. Before breakfast is totally consumed we have gone through 3 wet Princess chonies between the 2 of them.

Then I get the bright idea to move the potty chairs to where we are (in the living room), let them watch cartoons and sit on the potty, I start pushing the fluids like a madwoman, and keep encouraging them to watch TV and sit and drink. Woohoo, it worked, Pistol, grand resistor extraordinaire, FINALLY goes in the potty! After doing our routine, dump it, flush, wash your hands, get your m&m, put a sticker on the chart, we get on the phone to call Grammy & Welo and give them the good news!

Sure we had a couple more accidents (for a total of 5 chonies) and a couple of wet pull-ups, a total of 3 stickers for LongRifle and 2 for Pistol, A LOT of "I gotta go pee" and hurry and run to help them, but not too bad for BCPT Day 1.

Day 2:

Seemed a little more difficult for some reason. Only 3 wet chonies, they held it A LOT longer. 2 stickers for LongRifle, 1 for Pistol. Pistol had a dry pull-up after naptime. Spending some time outside seems to be helping (our sanity--so much easier to hose off the concrete--LOL!), potty chairs go outside too! Head to Grammy & Welo's for dinner, wearing pull-ups, both introduced to Dora potty seat @ Grammy's. LongRifle uses potty there, Pistol has an accident. Return home, both use potty before bed, a couple of accidents during the night. Pooing is an entirely different story---I don't think they're convinced.

Day 3:

Pistol woke up with a DRY pull-up (of course she didn't fall asleep until 1 am and I woke them up @ 7:30). LongRifle doing well. She tells me, "Don't worry mamá, I won't pee on my Princess!" Had appointment to visit preschool I want them to attend this fall (probably middle of July, just so we can get used to the routine), so we put them in pull-ups & met Grammy there. Filled her in on the scoop. Had grand tour, which included a visit to the restrooms there and a chance to see other kids their age using the potty. Both Pistol and LongRifle asked to go SEVERAL times while we were there but did nothing. They play & have snack with kids while Director gives us the rundown of the program, finally @ 10:30 am Pistol goes potty there, even the teachers make a BIG deal & give her a sticker. Left preschool @ 11am and both of them still had dry pull-ups!

Go have lunch, return home, both still have dry pull-ups, LongRifle uses potty before nap time. I head off to store leaving DrillSgt. in charge. According to DrillSgt.'s report, both wake up from nap with dry pull-ups, both sit & try, LongRifle uses potty before heading outside w/ DrillSgt. Pistol has accident outside while DrillSgt headed indoors to get sandals. I return just as DrillSgt is walking back outside.

LongRifle pottys before dinner, spent dinner getting up A LOT because Pistol asking to go potty. She does finally, but acting a bit strange, like she still has to go. She asks for pull-up I realize she has to poo, try to convince her to go, she's not buying it. Hangs out with DrillSgt. sitting on his lap, after a while she gets up and sits down on potty (after some cajoling on my part). I decide to up the ante and offer 2 stickers & 2 m&m's if she'll go poo in the potty. She smiles slightly and I offer to paint her toenails and fingernails pink while she tries. She buys into it & tries, goes poo a little and I make a big deal of it, give her 2 stickers & 2 m&m's (after our hand washing routine AND a quick tushie rinse) and while we're washing hands she gets a look of panic on her face and says "MOM, I'm standing up & I gotta go poo!" I pull her off the step stool get her tushie over the toilet just in time AND she goes!!! Woohoo 4 stickers and 4 m&m's, AND then we follow our routine of hand washing and she tells me she's gotta PEE!! Put in a call to Grammy & Welo. She ends the night with a total of SEVEN stickers on her chart and a HUGE smile on her face!! AND LongRifle ended her night with six stickers on her chart and NO accidents for the day!!

*Please pray for us that this BCPT continues to go smoothly*

A Little More Daring...

2009-06-09T22:43:00.000-07:00

than they used to be, I'm doing my best to let them grow and explore (but gosh it's sometimes difficult not to have a heart attack!) LOL!!

especially with this one!!

This Is The House That DrillSgt. Built....

2009-06-08T07:53:00.000-07:00

It was their birthday gift and it's FINALLY complete, roof and all!

One Door Closes...another opens.

2009-06-07T00:12:00.001-07:00

May 28th was not just DrillSgt's birthday, it was also the last day of group AND Bright Start (support program for high risk infants) for Da'Gorgeouses. These wonderful ladies were with us almost every step of the way starting the month we brought Pistol and LongRifle home from the NICU. Marisa, the lovely lady holding Pistol on the far right, came to the house to work with them EVERY week (except the 6 week summer vacation). Teacher MaryAnn, seen here holding LongRifle, came to our house that first year to teach Grammy and I infant massage and she ran the get ready for preschool group they've been a part of these last few months.

I cannot speak highly enough about Bright Start. It is a wonderful program and the people we worked with were EXCEPTIONAL people. I really appreciated getting to know them, having that extra set of unbiased eyes watching over the girls making sure they met their developmental milestones, but most of all I appreciated the genuine love and affection they all showered my girls with. Just look at how happy Da'Gorgeouses are sitting there with all those wonderful women. I know we'll keep in touch, after all, I still have their cell numbers programmed in my phone! LOL!!

Memorial Day Weekend Part 2

2009-05-28T08:12:00.000-07:00

It's important to wear A LOT of sunscreen and protective clothing when spending time playing at the beach. I will admit however, it makes for some really CUTE photos too!! LOL!! Just look at my mini-Jackie O's having a blast in the sand--they made quite a few heads turn and smile while we were there! Can you believe they kept their hat on the ENTIRE time (unless you count the time I took it off to get a better picture..haha!!).

DrillSgt. Turns 39!!

2009-05-28T00:00:00.000-07:00

Goodness how I love this man.

See those strong arms watching over our little ones?

Those are the same arms that give the biggest hugs and let us all know that we are being watched over and protected.
Those are the same arms that ever so gently held Da'Gorgeouses when they were but tiny little beings.
Those are the same arms that lift them up and make them squeal and giggle and laugh and ask for MORE.
Those are the same arms attached to the hands that pray over and bless our girls every night before they go to sleep.

♥ What a wonderful man he is! ♥

Happy Birthday Love!

Memorial Day Weekend Part 1

2009-05-26T21:38:00.001-07:00

AVILA BEACH, CA
MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND 2009

Because DrillSgt. wanted to head "somewhere" this weekend, and because he asked Da'Gorgeouses if they'd like to go to "the beach", and because they said "YES!!", and
because I asked if we could go to the Strawberry Festival...well, because of ALL that
we have these lovely photos. Although the coast was full of people, we really enjoyed
our small patch of sand at Avila Beach. It really is a lovely place to take our little ones,
it's just so family friendly there.

It's Just Not a Birthday Party...

2009-05-14T23:10:00.000-07:00

unless it's complete with piñata pictures!

Not An Easy Task...

2009-05-13T23:33:00.000-07:00

M-365: *Group Photo*

Let me tell you, when it comes to getting ALL of DrillSgt's. family members together it's QUITE a difficult task. I start verbally notifying everyone of the date in March, formal invites go out ~1 month in advance, etc. I was so glad that EVERYONE was able to make it to Da'Gorgeouses 3rd Birthday party (my girls were SO excited that their Tios/Tias and cousins were all there) AND lucky for me, one of my SIL's decided to motivate everyone to pose for a "RARE" family photo!

DrillSgt., his 9 other siblings AND my MIL

MIL & ALL her grandchildren!Believe it or not, this was the best shot out of all of them, too bad
my oldest nephew wasn't looking forward--LOL!! I still can't believe
he was only 3 when we got married! YIKES, has it really been that long ago?!

BTW, I REALLY love the fact that my girls are hugging each other --LOL!

Okay girls, this post was 'specially for you!

May 11th~I♥Faces "Laughter" Kids Entry

2009-05-11T22:59:00.000-07:00

Whenever I'm looking for that all out specific expression,
I somehow always end up with a picture of Pistol.

Her laughter is that deep down, raspy, belly laugh
that you can hear across the yard or playground.
It's the kind that's so infectious you can't help but join her.
Whenever we're in public and she starts laughing, everyone
around her does too, her laughter is that amazing!

I'm so blessed to haveDa'Gorgeouses in my life,
they truly ARE "endless hours of entertainment!"

For more contagious "laughter" pictures please visit I♥Faces.

THREE!! This many...

2009-05-11T22:19:00.000-07:00

Only Because I Know...

2009-05-10T23:34:00.001-07:00

some of you might have been waiting...LOL!!

I made their tutus, bought their crowns & wands, bought their
leotards & added the bits of flair. Their birthday party was a hit,
all the people that loved them & were able to attend did, food was
wonderful, company was great, bounce house was well used, and both
Pistol and LongRifle were EXHAUSTED by the time we put them to bed!

Thanks to all that made it & to those of you that wished my very special Princesses
a very Happy 3rd Birthday and were with us in spirit!
We love and appreciate each and every one of you,
thank you for being a part of our lives!

Goodbye 2, HELLO 3!!

2009-05-06T22:47:00.000-07:00

Da'Gorgeouses turn THREE on Friday. Our house has been a hustle and a bustle trying to get ready for the BIG Princess party on Saturday. The cake is ordered, the bounce house is hopefully showing up, we have borrowed tables and chairs, the meat/chips/drinks and favors are purchased, and invitations were sent out a month ago. I'm almost finished with their birthday outfits & if I have a chance I'll take & post a pic soon!

We've invited family and a few of Da'Gorgeouses close friends (who by the way are all over 30---can anyone explain to me why that is?). Their BEST friends are coming too, did I mention that they're in their 80's?! So as we say goodbye to the "terrible twos" we welcome the "trying threes" (TIMES TWO remember?) with open arms--LOL!!

So CELEBRATE with me, the joy of having TWO wonderfully amazing, super funny, super smart, silly, beautiful girls!

M-365: 123

2009-05-03T23:12:00.001-07:00

123

M-365: 122

2009-05-01T21:45:00.001-07:00

122

M-365: 121

2009-04-30T23:09:00.000-07:00

121

M-365: 120

2009-04-30T22:27:00.000-07:00

120

M-365: 119

2009-04-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

119

As promised, here's the other!

April 27th~ I ♥ Faces "Reflection" Kids Entry

2009-04-27T22:15:00.000-07:00

Oh, I had a little trouble with this week's Kids entry,
there were TWO I really liked!
I'll post the other on my next post---LOL!

Go check out all the cool reflections on I ♥ Faces!

M-365: 118

2009-04-27T21:24:00.000-07:00

118

Da'Gorgeouses made sure they were always in the front row during
"Our Town" Reads event. Such a wonderful event with many
booths promoting literacy in a variety of ways.

April 27th~ I ♥ Faces "Reflection" Entry

2009-04-27T00:09:00.001-07:00

Adult Entry

I just so happened to be wearing a green blouse that day!
Check out all the other "reflections" @ I ♥ Faces!

Hmm...now to search or create one for my Kid entry!

M-365: 117

2009-04-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

117

This is a "terrible" shot, but sometimes it's all about the learning curve!
*Note to self: remember to check the settings BEFORE taking
a picture! LOL!!*

M-365: 116

2009-04-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

116

An Unexpected Gift...

2009-04-24T23:24:00.000-07:00

I'd like to thank my blogger friend Holly for the wonderful surprise that arrived in my mailbox yesterday. She and I share the common bond of being preemie moms---now times TWO, and you may have seen my previous post about her Superbaby. She was so wonderful to think of me when she saw this, and had an extra pearl added to represent Da'Gorgeouses!

And the super-extra special thing is that she has the same one too!! How cool is that?!

Dear Holly,
Thank you for brightening my day and my tiny section of the blog world! If my wishes came true, you'd live right next door too!

M-365: 115

2009-04-24T08:07:00.000-07:00

115

M-365: 114

2009-04-23T07:00:00.000-07:00

114

You know what I think?

I think that when you survive
being born 16 weeks premature the entire world becomes
your stage AND every day is a day of CELEBRATION...

One should always take time out to sing and dance...

and we mustn't ever forget to bow and acknowledge
the applause!

AND every day is the PERFECT day to give THANKS!

Thank You VERY much!

*stage courtesy of the Fresno State "Free Speech" area*

M-365: 113

2009-04-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

113

I was just glad no one slipped off of the wooden stool!

My Future Photographers

2009-04-21T22:53:00.001-07:00

I think because I always have my camera within arms reach these days, Da'Gorgeouses are becoming very interested in taking pictures of their own. They're really good about not touching "mommy's camera" but they have started to walk around framing things with their fingers, stopping to say "say cheese" and making a clicking sound. Last night DrillSgt. used their inhaler boxes to cut a hole through so that they could have their very own camera. They LOVED it! Pistol even took a close look and noticed the box had a small orange square on it and said, "this is the button you push right here!" They had fun running around, asking us to pose and then they'd say, "okay, it's ready, mail for you!" Too cute! DrillSgt. of course was super impressed at their top-notch business skills stating, "WOW! That's ingenious, split-second turn around is sure to keep the clientele happy." LOL!!

April 22nd~ I ♥ Faces: Self-Portrait

2009-04-21T12:40:00.000-07:00

Well, it was somebody's bright idea to have this week's contest as a self-portrait.
I like taking pictures because then I don't have to BE in them! LOL!
BTW, does anyone realize just how difficult it is to take pictures of TWO three
year olds and yourself?! You don't even want to know how many shots
this took.

Kids Entry

Adult Entry

Go check out the other self-portraits @ I ♥ Faces there a lots of REALLY
creative ones out there. I was just lucky to be able to get these done I have
really short arms (like a T-Rex).

M-365: 112

2009-04-21T07:00:00.000-07:00

112

I'm so glad they feel right at home with a book in their hand!
Pistol enjoying a book on foreign policy (umm...genetic thing maybe?)
@ the newly opened, beautifully renovated,
Henry Madden Library at California State University Fresno
(our old alma mater).

M-365: 111

2009-04-20T23:29:00.000-07:00

111

M-365: 110

2009-04-19T12:19:00.000-07:00

110

This one is courtesy of Grammy!

M-365: 109 Did I Mention our 2 New Additions?

2009-04-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

109

Aren't they cute?!!

Seriously, these little ones are small...

The Easter Bunny dropped them off at our local feed store
and DrillSgt. brought them home!

M-365: 108 It's All Fun & Games Now...

2009-04-17T22:46:00.000-07:00

108

...but wait until they turn 16 and find out they really have to
SHARE their mode of transportation! LOL!!

What I Love About You RIGHT Now...

2009-04-16T22:08:00.000-07:00

I love...

how fiercely you protect each other and look out for each other
how you love to perform and then take a bow afterward
how you can stay up for hours giggling and talking to each other (even if it does make me a little crazy at the time)
how you wake up asking "Where are we going today?"
how quickly you notice things (like the picture of Olivia the Pig that I drew for you and hung above your table yesterday)
how well you've learned to sit still for your time-outs (even if there is a lot of verbal drama)
how pure of heart you both are, sharing your hugs and smiles freely with all those that surround you
being the recipient of those big hugs and smiles AND kisses, in the morning when I get you out of bed, whenever I come home from work or at night when you're headed off to sleep
how well you've learned right from wrong, and how you are quick to let me know when someone at the playground is not playing nicely
how you, Pistol, seem to be getting less cautious the closer to 3 you get
how you, LongRifle, can learn practically all the words to a song after just one listen
how you both break out in song no matter where we are or who is around, in the car, at Target, while we're getting ready for bed, etc. and the way you sometimes just sing whatever it is you want to say
how there are days, like today, when you make me realize that this is what I always dreamed of

I LOVE YOU BOTH VERY MUCH!!

M-365: 107 YEEHAW!!

2009-04-16T22:02:00.001-07:00

107

You can't live where we do and not own a pair of boots or a cowboy hat!
LOL!!
I'd say there's a couple o' new Sheriffs in town!
Da'Gorgeouses even rode a pony!

M-365: ? For Today

2009-04-15T23:33:00.001-07:00

Da'Gorgeouses Go Hollywood

2009-04-14T22:39:00.001-07:00

M:365---I'm SOOO Behind! LOL

We had a family date night tonight. It was a pleasant dinner and Da'Gorgeouses had loads of fun sporting their new "Hollywood" sunglasses!

April 14th~I ♥ Faces~Easter Kids Entry

2009-04-14T19:24:00.000-07:00

Da'Gorgeouses were good about sharing their Easter basket loot! Check out all the wonderful Spring/Easter pics on I ♥ Faces!

April 6th~ I ♥ Faces~ "My Friend & I"

2009-04-05T21:43:00.001-07:00

I was really happy to capture this tender moment between Pistol and LongRifle. It's one of my all time favorite pics. I just love how Pistol has her eyes closed her hands wrapped around her "little sister" (you know that minute really does make her the little sister) and how LongRifle is gently patting her head.

Seriously, not only are they twins but they really are the "BEST" of friends! From the get go we knew they would have a special relationship but we were really able to see it take fruit early on when after having been kept in separate incubators for the first 13 weeks of their lives (they were born 16 weeks early) they were finally allowed to share one. Right away they found each other, and from that moment on they were always connected, little arms entwined, mouth nuzzling the back of sissy's head, or we'd find them embracing each other as they slept. Sure now they're older and they argue and drive each other crazy every now and then, but...they also feed each other food, stand up for each other (even against DrillSgt. and I), and tell each other "I love you sissy, you're my best friend!"

So head on over to I ♥ Faces and check out all the other great My Friend & I pics!

Another Milestone?!

2009-03-31T15:33:00.000-07:00

We may have found a part-time daycare for next year! Hooray!! Da'Gorgeouses loved it and even CRIED because we were leaving---I have no idea why they're so social?! Grammy & I met with the director this morning and then had a small tour of the facilities. She was very thorough and gave me the breakdown, days, times, prices, curriculum, nap & even bible studies time. Sounds heavenly & a place Da'Gorgeouses would benefit from. They'd spend the rest of my full-time work schedule with Grammy & Welo if/when he retires. They really do need some type of social interaction with other kids their age, the whole learning to share, take turns and interact with others besides just themselves and all of the adults in their environment. Okay, excuse me while I go cry now!

Update....

2009-03-24T22:48:00.000-07:00

So my blog updates have been neglected to say the least. I was super busy, then we were on Spring Break, I attended a teacher's recruitment fair, was offered and signed a contract with my former school district, so now I'll have a full-time job come August. I'm of course both excited and saddened. Thrilled to have landed a job in this economy but a little sad that Da'Gorgeouses and I will see less of each other. They'll be staying with Grammy for the most part, looking into part-time daycare for the socialization and so that they don't drive Grammy to complete exhaustion--LOL!!

Da'Gorgeouses are doing well. They had their first dental appointment Tuesday of last week, no cavities, but the fact that they're preemies and that they have to take the inhaler medications means that their teeth are super fragile. As a matter of fact, most of the enamel off of Pistol's front teeth has been worn away. Both DrillSgt. and I were super sad to hear that. At least the dentist said we were doing a good job with brushing because although their teeth are pitted the fact that they have no cavities is a good indicator. They both did well, had a cleaning and a fluoride treatment.

We also took them to Disneyland again during Spring Break. Overall they had a great time. We stood in a long line to see the Princesses and even bought them one of those ridiculously priced autograph books so they could get signatures. I didn't think that at their age they would even understand or be excited about it, but they were! After the first stop with the Princesses they made sure to ask for their books each time they met another character. If you ask them which one was their favorite they'll both tell you Tigger (must be a genetic thing 'cause he's always been my favorite too!).

We did have one MAJOR meltdown while there which was our fault for not getting back to the hotel within a reasonable time for a nap, and one very embarrassing moment for me. As we were coming out of the Jungle Cruise we ran straight into Princess Jasmine and her hubby Aladdin, of course Da'Gorgeouses spotted her right away and quickly asked for their books and got in line to wait. As we were waiting, both girls were fairly calm and really focused on her. Pistol hanging with her dad turns to me and loudly says, "Mom! Princess Jasmine has big boobies like you!" This exclamation was heard very clearly by the group of teenagers directly behind us. Without skipping a beat (I had to say something right?!) I said, "You're right darling, she does, only hers are MUCH perkier than mine!" Of course then to further add to my embarrassment, once they got up close and personal, LongRifle just couldn't keep her hands off of all the bling that adorned Princess Jasmine's top...you know, the one that looks just like a bra?!

And just so you don't think I made this all up...

March 23~ I ♥ Faces Kids Entry

2009-03-24T22:38:00.001-07:00

Oh well, I guess I missed the deadline, but it's only 10:40 pm California time!! LOL!! This would have been my NO FLASH entry for this week. It's a pic of my nephew born just one month before Da'Gorgeouses but actually on time. Such a cutie pie!

March 9~ I ♥ Faces Creative Crop Adult Entry

2009-03-09T23:51:00.000-07:00

SOOC

Creative Crop

DrillSgt. can be pretty intense when he wants to be! LOL!!

For more creative crop photos check out
www.iheartfaces.blogspot.com

March 9~ I ♥ Faces Creative Crop Kids Entry

2009-03-09T22:41:00.001-07:00

SOOC, I decided to use my camera to creatively crop & the ring
to "frame" (see I'm learning new things every day)
my photo.

I did use editing software (Paint Shop Pro XI) to slightly crop some more,
I tried to crop out her other hand, but it just didn't pack the same punch!
LOL!! I might have thought a little too outside the box.
Feel free to let me know what you think!

Go check out the rest of the creatively cropped photos at
www.iheartfaces.blogspot.com

M-365: 65

2009-03-05T21:57:00.000-08:00

Da'Gorgeoues had a pretty sleepless night (up @ 2 am, 4 am, chatting with each other from 5 - 5:45 am) which they managed to drag me into. They did however, get a taste of how Mamá was raised. You will learn that you can play all you want to @ night but you will still get up early the next morning and meet your responsibilities (yes, my old college roomie & I met all our friends @ a dance club every Wednesday night and closed the place down AND I still made it to my 8 am class EVERY Thursday---AND earned good grades to boot)!!

I can truthfully say that we had a WONDERFUL day!! We made it to our 9:30 am group time, despite some serious protesting from my lovely girls pictured here. We were even inspired to have some watercolor time by SouleMama & this (click on it, you won't be disappointed), had a great nap, remained fairly calm and stayed on schedule the rest of the day. Can I hear a whoot-whoot?!! LOL!!

M-365: 64

2009-03-04T22:27:00.001-08:00

Umm...we forgot the cake AGAIN!!
It was my Tia's birthday (right), my mom's (far left) youngest sister,
that's our goddaughter in the middle. We all wanted to sing, and well, you know
Da'Gorgeouses were all revved up to really party. Pistol was pretty upset that
we forgot the cake, she kept telling us about it ALL night---LOL!! I guess I'd better
not forget their birthday cake. The shot is pretty out of focus (I'm still working on those low
light settings) but I thought she'd enjoy seeing it.

M-365: 63

2009-03-03T22:54:00.000-08:00

Seriously, all this drama because DrillSgt. was outside on his tractor mowing
the lawn. She kept crying out, "Daddy, I LOVE YOU!! Daddy, can you hear me?
I LOVE YOU!!" I guess I should have caught it on video, DrillSgt. would have loved it!

M-365*: 62

2009-03-02T23:09:00.001-08:00

*62

M-365: 61

2009-03-02T00:14:00.000-08:00

I know that LongRifle is blurry in this one, but
I just couldn't resist the look on Pistol's face!
*correction...I know that LongRifle's face is
OUT OF FOCUS in this one, and "of course"
I meant to do this---LOL!! Thanks Tracy!

March 2~ I ♥ Faces Beginners "Messy" Entry

2009-03-01T23:19:00.000-08:00

This messy photo was taken August of 2008 at the ice cream shop
in Avila Beach, CA.

I'm an amateur photographer, a full-time mom to Da'Gorgeouses born 16 weeks premature
weighing 1.4 and 1.5 lbs. (they are now healthy & happy almost 3 year olds), a recently
returned to work part-time teacher, and a full-time wife to the DrillSgt.

Just this past year I've started to take photography more seriously and learn
about some of the settings on the camera I received as a gift Christmas of '07---
there are just so many buttons & I know that I have a long way to go!
There isn't much time for working on the learning part of it (Da'Gorgeouses keep me
pretty busy). I'm clueless when it comes to a lot of the photography lingo like aperture,
I've borrowed a few books from my local library, joined a few online blogs & groups, would
really love to take a class as I think this is one of those hands on learning things.
I do have Paint Shop Pro XI and have just recently started to use it to edit some of my photos.
I take A LOT of pictures and find myself lucky sometimes---LOL!! I'm open to constructive criticism, so shoot away!

To view many more Messy photos go to www.iheartfaces.blogspot.com, kids, adults, beginners.

M-365: 60

2009-02-28T23:34:00.000-08:00

M-365: 59

2009-02-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

A nice family dropped by for a visit with Da'Gorgeouses yesterday, Marisa brought them over. There were 3 adults (or maybe 2 adults one teenager?) and 2 kids. Nice enough, but when they came in they were a little out of sorts, so it took us awhile to help them compose themselves. They kept Pistol and LongRifle entertained, but I think the youngest one looked a tad bit worried about getting stepped on. Before they left they were kind enough to let me take their picture.

M-365: 58

2009-02-27T07:00:00.000-08:00

My youngest cousin AND our Goddaughter

She's the whole reason DrillSgt. and I began our journey
to have kids. I still can't believe I saw her come into this world,
what an AMAZING experience! Of course she's now taller than me
(who isn't?!) and she's a total BRAINIAC--gotta love a kid that carts a book
with her everywhere she goes, says PLEASE and THANK-YOU, sings at her
school talent shows with her father backing her up on guitar, AND is a HUGE
TEAM EDWARD fan!! LOL!! Love YOU!!!

What I Love About You RIGHT Now...

2009-02-26T23:33:00.000-08:00

I LOVE...

that you've both memorized the names of the President, Vice-President, Secretary of State and Speaker of the House (DrillSgt. has sophomores that can't do that)!

that you've both taken a liking to preforming "on stage" (our hearth) and will bow like pros after singing one of your favorite songs like Old McDonald or How Much is that Doggie in the Window (which Grammy & Welo taught you during one of our date nights).

that you grab book after book running over to one of us and yell earnestly "Read it to me, read it to me!"

that you (Pistol) have made it a habit to run to me after I come home from work, give me a huge hug and say "I missed you today mom!" (melts my heart EVERY time!)

that you (LongRifle) have memorized almost word for word the entire story of Olivia and the Missing Toy and will bring the book over and say "Let me read it to you!" (sooo stinkin' cute!)

that you both know the schedule and routine and in the morning when I'm home on Tuesday you ask "Are we going to Story time today?" or on Thursday you say, "We're going to group today" and of course we can't forget Friday's greeting (which I no longer get to hear because I'm at work) "Marisa comes today!"

that others compliment you all the time, about how well you behave, how smart you are, what happy girls you are---I'm so VERY proud to be your Mamá!

M-365: 57

2009-02-26T23:01:00.000-08:00

M-365: 56

2009-02-25T23:15:00.001-08:00

Pistol as promised!

M-365: 55

2009-02-24T22:42:00.000-08:00

Trips to the snow, some maintenance stuff, giving in to the need for sleep---things like these have me neglecting my 365 project. I have pics, but need to edit! So I'll have to go back & play catch up, but since I have pics from today(with my favorite subjects of course) I thought I'd post one! Pistol's to follow...

Feb 23~I ♥ Faces B&W Kids & Adult Entry

2009-02-24T17:11:00.000-08:00

Adult Entry

My parents & Da'Gorgeouses @ the Beach (Morro Bay).
I wanted to make this one more of an old fashioned b & w.

Kids Entry

Pistol (isn't she hilarious?!).
For some reason this photo looks better in B & W.

To see more B & W photos go to www.iheartfaces.blogspot.com
or click on Kids and Adults.

M-365*: 54

2009-02-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

54*

Self-Portrait

It took me awhile to complete this assignment (well, I"ll admit
that I took A LOT of pictures but didn't quite like any of them).
This one I actually liked! My reflection in the playroom window.

February 16~ I ♥ Faces "Wonder" Kids Entry

2009-02-17T23:21:00.000-08:00

The wonder of blowing the dandelions,
remember how much fun you had doing it?!
I just love the intensity of the look AND the small
droplet of spittle hanging off of her lip! LOL!!

To check out more wonder-struck
kids AND adults click on the links to visit
I ♥ Faces

M-365: 47

2009-02-16T22:47:00.000-08:00

M-365: 46

2009-02-15T22:43:00.000-08:00

It was a complete accident but I fell in love with it nonetheless!

M-365: 45

2009-02-14T00:25:00.000-08:00

M-365: 44

2009-02-14T00:21:00.000-08:00

Weird reflection of the sunset light through the window pane in our door.

M-365* : 43

2009-02-13T23:50:00.000-08:00

43*

M-365 : 42

2009-02-13T23:43:00.000-08:00

42

You can take the man out of the Marines and Army,
but you can never extinguish the
DrillSgt.!!

Even our trip to Lowe's becomes an opportunity to teach and learn!!!

Feb. 9~ I ♥ Faces "Silly" Adult Entry

2009-02-10T15:32:00.001-08:00

My family is full of joksters. This is a pic of my sis & bil taken with my point & shoot camera for the purpose of teaching Da'Gorgeouses the names of the people in our family. LOL!! I guess they wanted their faces to be unforgettable! Check out all the other silly faces at www.iheartfaces.blogspot.com, you won't stop giggling!

Feb 9~ I ♥ Faces "Silly" Kids Entry

2009-02-10T14:12:00.000-08:00

This pic was taken with my point & shoot camera, when I saw the category was Silly, I thought of this one immediately! Every time I see it, it makes me laugh. It was taken right outside of Costco after we had just purchased those jammies for them. We had originally given them to Da'Gorgeouses to keep the wind off of them, but they quickly turned it into a silly game! Go check out all the silly faces at www.iheartfaces.blogspot.com, you won't be able to stop laughing!

M-365: 41

2009-02-10T00:14:00.000-08:00

M-365 : 40

2009-02-10T00:11:00.000-08:00

What I Love About You RIGHT Now...

2009-02-09T22:33:00.000-08:00

I love...

the way you come running up to me for hugs after I walk in the door from work.

how you (LongRifle) tell me you need some "chongitos" (ponytails) as you pull the hair away from your eyes.

how you (Pistol) replace the word "thing" that I use when mommy brain has struck again with the correct word like "bib"---LOL!!

how no matter if you've just been fighting over something or screaming at each other, you protect one another.

how you share things like food and even go so far as to feed each other---it's too cute!

how you (Pistol) will wake up crying out "I LOVE YOU mamá, gimme a big hug!"

how you (LongRifle) never fail to ask "Where's papá, is he alseep, is he at work" through those slightly opened eyes when I wake you up to change you.

how you love to run and jump and play and climb, and how you get ever so excited when we head to the park.

how well behaved you are around others, you're polite, say "please" and "thank-you", smile and giggle and even engage others in conversation, sometimes it's just like talking to a mini-adult!

this stage you're in right now, where you tell Grammy, "No I'm not a baby, I'm a big girl, Grammy!" and turn right around and tell mamá, "No mamá, I'm not a big girl, I'm a baby, and I'm a princess!" (That's right! And no matter how old you are, you'll always be my babies AND my princesses!---right Grammy?!)

M-365: 39*

2009-02-07T21:15:00.001-08:00

39*

We were driving along & I was complaining to DrillSgt. that I hadn't
even attempted my reflection assignment for the Mommytography
group this week, when I looked out the window & had a bright idea!
LOL!! Excuse the streaks on the mirror, it's been raining around here.

M-365 : 38

2009-02-07T00:12:00.001-08:00

The view of the sky outside our back porch this morning!

Dear Holly...

2009-02-05T23:22:00.000-08:00

Okay, my dear blog friend Holly went on bedrest not too long ago and happened to stop by and leave a comment today. She used to be a California girl, but right after I found her blog she decided to move to Wisconsin of all places! I secretly wonder if she thought I might visit her someday, seeing as how we have so much in common---LOL!! Anyway, of course I've been checking up on her, stalking her blog daily, waiting for her to post how she's been doing. Seems she had a pretty good excuse for neglecting her blog, please stop by and congratulate her, on her precious bundle of joy!!

Praying that Little Flower Bud's NICU stay is short and only includes the happy parts of the rollercoaster ride!

M-365 : 34-37

2009-02-05T17:21:00.000-08:00

Finally, back on track! LOL!! Well, except for the reflection assignment.

M-365 : 30-33 Trying to Play Catch Up!

2009-02-05T17:07:00.001-08:00

February 2~ I ♥ Faces "EYES" Kids Entry

2009-02-03T23:36:00.001-08:00

Head on over and SEE for yourself, all the cool "EYES" on I ♥ Faces Kids!
So far so good on keeping away the mommy guilt! LOL!!

Bright, Sun-Shiny Day

2009-01-29T23:30:00.000-08:00

Here's a few of the photos from our outing with GardenGirl and Red...(click the link to view her super cute photos)!