Es Una Vida Hermosa

It's been a while...

2011-02-15T09:28:00.002-07:00

I bumped into my own blog this morning and realized it really has been a while since I posted anything. It would be a gross understatement to say that there's been a lot going on in the Marquez household. We've recently purchased a home, celebrated Christmas with Mateo's family in California, moved into our new home, and celebrated my little bear's 2nd birthday, not to mention all the "stuff" of daily life. It has truly been a whirlwind of a month and I don't think the storm has settled yet. What I'm learning today, and leaving with you, is that I am being asked to be brave. I'm being asked to be obedient though I don't understand everything that's going on. I'm being asked to remember that God is still on the throne. The smile on my little bear up there proves it.

Gobble Gobble!

2010-11-24T12:45:00.001-07:00

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Prayer for Today

2010-11-16T11:15:00.002-07:00

Dear Lord, help me to embrace the privilege and process of motherhood. Remind me that parenting is an opportunity to invest beyond myself. I need Your help. Guide me so that I can model You every day in every way. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

My Little Monkey

2010-11-01T11:19:00.001-06:00

Isaias' 1st Official School Picture!

2010-10-22T14:19:00.002-06:00

This is literally a picture of his school picture. I took it with my phone, so the quality isn't the greatest but you get the gist! I can't get over how grown up he looks! He's 20 months old and looks like a 1st grader!

Harvest Farm

2010-10-21T13:10:00.001-06:00

Just a little snack - more fall fun pictures to come!

A Gift

2010-10-18T11:33:00.004-06:00

Yesterday morning was a dictionary definition beautiful morning.

We actually got out the door on time, early even – an astonishing feat some Sunday mornings. I took a different route to church and believe now that in some way God told me to.

I made my way into a Starbucks drive-through for my skinny vanilla latte and Isaias’ chocolate milk. Little did I know that drive-through stop held a delightful, and certainly unexpected, blessing for me. As I pulled up to the window to pay the barista let me know, grinning ear to ear, that the car in front of me wanted to show me a random act of kindness by paying for my order! What a gift!

As I enjoyed my extra special latte I cleared a hill and was met with a truly stunning view. The sky was a perfectly clear shade of blue and was graced with a lively hot air balloon. The mountains in the far view were sprinkled with snow and the cherry on top was that this whole picture was framed with the colors of fall leaves draping the trees.

This, I know, was God saying, “This is for you Michelle, because I love you.”

Sinking

2010-10-13T14:23:00.003-06:00

This morning I had a doctor’s appointment to get my right heel checked. It’s been bothering me off and on for a few months and in the past few weeks it finally got the point where I couldn’t let it go unchecked any longer. I spent most of Saturday and Sunday on the couch because of the pain. Diagnosis: Plantar Fasciitis. Ugh. The doctor asked me lots of questions, poked and prodded, and then said, “Well, you aren’t 20 anymore!” Ha! Thanks Doc.

A lot of “yuck” has been going on at work. Yesterday I literally went outside to scream just so I could let off a little steam. It helped.

Signed up for Weight Watcher’s last night. This will be my 4th time. The first time was VERY successful – 35 pounds off. The 2nd time, not so much – followed the plan for a little over 2 weeks. The 3rd time very successful again, but saw last night that I’ve gained back 8 pounds. 8 very heavy pounds - 8 pounds that make me tired and sluggish.

BUT, in ALL of THIS…a song came to me. I’m letting the words sink into my soul. That is where the truth should be.

All of the sudden I am unaware of these afflictions, eclipsed by glory. And I realize just how beautiful You are and how great Your affections are for me.

And oh, how He loves us…

A Few of My Favorite Things

2010-10-04T15:44:00.001-06:00

The heavy weight of a quilt.

The smell of apple crisp baking.

A handwritten card from my Grandma.

Hearing Isaias say a word for the first time.

A bear hug from my husband.

A mini bear hug from my son.

A hot cup in cold hands.

The crunch of fallen leaves.

A good quote or verse that resonates with you all day.

An unexpected smile or compliment.

A tidy house.

Snow days.

Welcome, Change....

2010-09-09T16:15:00.002-06:00

Last night as Mateo and I were cleaning house I realized that a transformation has taken place in our home - subtly and slowly, but surely. While glancing up at the mantle above our fireplace I smiled at the pictures of my beautiful baby boy, realizing that the Jazz lounge painting that had been there before Isaias came into our lives could never compare. Ever. And I loved that painting.

While sorting through his tubs of toys and books that now grace our living room, I remembered how we used to have precious trinkets and collections out on the shelving and table tops. No longer.

But this is not a complaint - not at all. Our home has taken on a much more relaxed and playful vibe, and while it does sometimes drive me crazy because of my neat-freakishness, it also does my heart good. I know Isaias loves our home - feels safe and cherished there. And so do I.

And so I welcome you, Change.

Just because I love him...

2010-08-23T12:55:00.005-06:00

Those eyes get me everytime.

Who doesn't love to enjoy an ice cream cone while swimming?

The face you might get if you ask him to smile.

Hee...hee...I don't even know how to explain this one, but it cracks me up.

Pretty sure there was shouting involved here.

With new cousin Lucia.

Switcheroooo

2010-08-16T11:43:00.007-06:00

Phillippians 1:9 - And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more...

It always surprises and stuns me how, in my humanness, I go to a place thinking, "I'm going to do so much for them!", only to leave knowing they have done so much for ME. As much as I tried to fight it, I know that was part of my mentality going to South Africa last November, and I came back changed - and certainly not from anything I did. This past week at WYI was the same. The girls in my cabin, the speakers, the fellowship, the theme: LOVE, all changed ME.

During the very first meeting I got a Jesus kick in the face by the suggestion of letting go, and hanging on. I was challenged to love others - I mean REALLY love others, especially the ones I don't want to love. I've been hanging on to bitterness and resentment, frustration and discouragement. Jesus is ripping off those shabby and restraining clothes and giving me something much lighter and more radiant to wear - righteousness, humility, and compassion. These are the essentials I’m now taking hold of.

The swap, of course, isn't immediate, nor really ever accomplished in its fullness here on earth, but I’m praying for a teachable spirit. One that will be open to this exchange. One that will quit the constant bartering. One that will strive to always conduct itself with LOVE.

Dreaming

2010-08-04T15:59:00.008-06:00

“It is God who takes old dreams and turns them on their sides, laying out a course for a new dream”.
-Flower Patch Farm Girl

This week I’ve been preparing devotions for a group of 18 year old girls that I’ll be counseling next week at The Salvation Army’s Western Youth Institute. I’ve been digging up a few questions to ask the girls each night so that I can better gauge their maturity and better understand where they are spiritually.

One of the questions I came across asked, “As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? How similar or different is that dream from what you really do now?” I realize most of these girls won’t have started in a full-blown career yet, some may only just now be considering what to do in college, but it’s an interesting question to consider – How have your dreams changed?

I don’t necessarily recall what I wanted to be as a young child, but I know that through middle and high school I wanted to teach or practice Interior Design. I remember being torn between dreams. I wanted to make an impact, change lives, be remembered as someone who did a good thing here and there. It seemed obvious to me that the best way to accomplish those things would be to teach….and I loved it. Interior Design wasn’t practical, it wouldn’t foster a stable income, it wasn’t realistic….but I loved it too. I took what many would call the “easy road”, but if you’ve ever taught or known someone who did, you would know there is nothing easy about teaching.

It’s remarkable how dreams change as we mature and realize how multifaceted the world is. We strain to understand that while some dreams sour and go stale, others ripen and flourish. We struggle through it, finally realizing that amending our dreams is acceptable, even vital.

After all, who knows what they really want until after the age of 23 anyway?

What I know is that I want my dream to be a reflection of God’s dream for me. It is God who will change my old dreams into new and vastly more beautiful dreams. And I'm pretty darn excited about it.

The Rest of Summer

2010-07-26T10:43:00.005-06:00

While autumn is my absolute favorite season, there is something to be said for the fun a little boy can have in the hot summer sun. The picture above is perfect in my eyes - my happy, healthy little boy, enjoying a beautiful day in God's creation.

The "tough guy" pose - love it.

Family picture at a friends house. Isaias wouldn't stay still. The cure? Why, chapstick of course!

Some fun in the pool - he loves the water.

(Will post a video of him swimming soon!)

Learning to brush his teeth. I think he secretly just likes to eat the toothpaste.

Praying your summer is full of rest and beauty. Enjoy the time - it passes so quickly.

An Unexpected Answer

2010-05-20T10:28:00.002-06:00

At the doctor’s office I saw a sign that said “Area of Refuge”, with a little green arrow pointing toward a cave-like space. I realize that it was simply a place to go should a tornado take shape, but in that moment I pictured Jesus with a sign around his neck, like a name tag, reading “Area of Refuge”.

I’ve been facing some heavy frustrations lately. I’ve prayed many, many prayers about those frustrations. And I believe that sign was a message, an answer to my prayers - “Michelle, I am your Area of Refuge. I am your strength in times of trouble, your rock and salvation, your fortress. Trust this and you will see my unfailing love”.

10 Commandments

2010-04-15T09:32:00.004-06:00

Inspired by the author of The Happiness Project, I decided to create my own list of commandments - attitudes and actions that I want to work on. Some of them are obvious, some of them require a little explanation. In any case, I've been working on "practicing" this list for just under a month, and I've really found it helpful when I'm in sticky situations and when I'm just not feeling very motivated to accomplish much of anything. I'd encourage you to check out The Happiness Project, or even just come up with your own list of commandments that you want to challenge yourself with. Here are mine!

1. Practice Skillful Emotion - sometimes my emotions get the best of me and I don't react to situations in the best way possible. Remembering to practice skillful emotion helps me to take a moment (or twenty) to consider my feelings, and then respond.

2. Act with More Joy - in general, just practice being a joyful person. I have so much to be joyful about!

3. Love Mercy - pretty self-explanatory, but I just want to have mercy at the forefront of my mind in dealing with difficult people and difficult situations. Everyone deserves a little mercy!

4. No Deposit, No Return - obviously we think of this phrase in terms of finances, but I want to apply it to EVERYTHING - friendships, my marriage, studying, church life, work, raising Isaias - if I don't put my best into it, I'm not going to get the best from it.

5. Pollyanna - If you haven't read the book or seen the movie, Pollyanna was an orphan whose philosophy on life centered around playing the "Glad Game" - having an optimistic attitude and finding something to be glad about in every situation. It's harder than it sounds!

6. Simplify - this too, is harder than it sounds.

7. Be Present - I find myself not remembering details about things I've done and places I've been and I think it's because my mind isn't always in the moment. I'm thinking about what didn't get done at work or what has to be done on the weekend. I want to remember my experiences and the special moments of my life. Practice being present.

8. Tackle Nagging Tasks - just do them. You'll feel better when they're done.

9. This Too Shall Pass - no bad moment is going to last forever.

10. Be Michelle - I wrote a whole post on this commandment. Check it out.

Everyday Blessings

2010-03-23T20:25:00.009-06:00

Sometimes in the midst of the busiest and most frustrating days I find myself reminded of how incredibly blessed I am. I know it's a "God thing". He uses the beautiful dailyness of our lives to keep us mindful of the great gifts He has given us.

These are a few of the everyday moments I've loved in the last couple of weeks...

Isaias and his girlfriend Michaela - one of the rare moments we were able to catch them both smiling and chatting with each other.

Our first trip to the park. Though Isaias wasn't sure about the swings or the slide, "firsts" are always fun!

Another 1st - trying to feed himself. He kept grabbing the wrong end of the spoon, but he eventually got some applesauce in there!

Yet another 1st - big boy bath time! No baby-tub anymore!!

All tuckered out. My little bear fast asleep in his highchair.

Thank you God, for reminding me of how great You are,

And how blessed I am.

1-Year Photos

2010-03-10T10:28:00.003-07:00

Last Saturday we took Isaias to get his 1-Year pictures taken. It was a crazy event! Besides not having had a good nap beforehand, Isaias was not one-bit interested in sitting still, which made for an interesting portrait session. Luckily, the lady taking the photos was very patient and did her best to handle our rambuncious little guy! I was really worried throughout the session that none of the pictures would come out very well, but she got some GREAT shots. Here are a few of my favorites...

I love this picture. His eyes are so full of wonder!

My happy boy. Always a big grin on his face!

I know, I know. It was torturous for me to dress him in this outfit, but seriously - he has to have some goofy photos for his wedding slideshow! And even in this outfit, he looks darling.

I LOVE being a mommy!

Family

2010-03-08T09:51:00.006-07:00

“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.” - Dr. Suess

Be Michelle

2010-03-01T10:25:00.002-07:00

I’ve just finished reading the new book The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin. I loved the practical ideas and advice so much I’m starting on my second read.

In her book Gretchen has a list she calls her “Personal Twelve Commandments”, my favorite of which, and the one most referred to in her book, is BE GRETCHEN. The further along I got in her book, the more I realized that I need to adopt this personal commandment for myself. BE MICHELLE. Sometimes I get so caught up in my nature of being a “people-pleaser” that I forget to be myself. I am a “yes” person, always afraid to say no because I don’t want to upset anyone. I also have a tendency to agree to do things that I don’t really like doing, like playing in band. I don’t hate it, but I don’t love it either. And though this has now mostly passed, I used to be a bit ashamed of some of the things I did like – crafting, (some) country music, being a neat freak. I’ve also been one who tries to force myself to like things I feel I should like, according to public-standards – partying, classical music, visiting museums and galleries, and the like. And when I realized I really didn’t like those things, a sense of guilt would inevitably follow. Gretchen addresses the whole issue in her book, and if you’d like to see a tid-bit of it, check out her blog post on the subject. When I came across this in her book all I could think was “wow, that’s me”.

I also realized while reading the book that my husband does not have this issue. He is Mateo through and through, and I love that about him. He doesn’t let others convince him to do things he doesn’t enjoy. He is not ashamed of the things he loves – technology, zombie books, doing magic, exploring the outdoors. He is himself and he’s happier because of it. Being Mateo has never been an issue for him, and I’m going to try harder to follow his example in this.

This isn’t to say that we shouldn’t try out new things, try to expand our horizons, and try to better ourselves; it’s just a simple reminder to be you. You are you, just as God created you - accept your likes and dislikes, acknowledge your strengths and weaknesses, be authentic. BE (insert your name here!).

Cloudy with a chance of sunshine...

2010-02-25T13:34:00.006-07:00

Just wanted to post a link to a blog that I keep up on regularly. Her post today impacted me in the kind of profound way that leaves you feeling encouraged, knowing you're not the only one who has "those days". Hope it's a blessing to you.

http://flowerpatchfarmgirl.blogspot.com/2010/02/mostly-cloudy.html

Lovin' his Kix

2010-02-12T11:48:00.006-07:00

He's Walking!!

2010-02-11T20:32:00.002-07:00

Walking is one of the developmental milestones that I find amazing! Can you imagine taking your very first steps - how exciting! I know we all do it, but to SEE your own baby's first steps - what a joy!

This video shows a few of his first steps when he was just getting started...

Here he is a week later, getting more confident...

Our Little Monster

2010-02-11T17:50:00.007-07:00

Playing a little catch-up here....

For Christmas my lovely Granny B. gives us each $100.00 cash to spend as we please. This year I honestly couldn't think of anything I wanted for myself, so I decided to put my money to use redecorating one of our bathrooms - specifically the bathroom Isaias uses. It's still a work in progress. I never imagined finding cute "monster" artwork and wall-decor would be so difficult, but alas, it's February, and I'm still searching. Anyway, here are a few pictures of some of the "monster" items you'd see in our Little Monster's bathroom!

I fell in love with this stuff when I spotted it at Kohl's, especially the green towel that says "clean" on one side and "dirty" on the other. The soap dispenser is also a "fave" of mine - as you turn it around there are different monster faces. After finding those fun items I found the monster feet bathmats at Target a few days later. It was meant to be!

Isaias' 1st Birthday!

2010-02-03T21:12:00.008-07:00

Last weekend we celebrated Isaias' 1st birthday! We went with a "safari" theme for the party. Each of Isaias' little buddies got a safari hat to wear - a great find from Michael's! Isaias LOVED the cupcake he was given, and though hesitant at first to dig in, he ended up with chocolate frosting everywhere! We've decided to make it a tradition to measure him each birthday to see how he's growing. I can't believe it has really been a year already. Mateo and I feel incredibly blessed to have been given such a wonderful gift - a handsome, happy, healthy little boy. And, by the way - he's WALKING! I'll post a video soon! I love being a mommy!

My Current Itch

2010-02-03T15:37:00.005-07:00

I have a deep and desperate desire to craft. I want to fasten myself to a chair at home and create. I have lists and lists of things in my mind I want to make, bake, fashion, design and construct. I want to get my hands dirty and knick up my knuckles. Oh to live in a world where I could routinely submerge myself in my inspired consciousness like a bad habit.

Saturday please don't delay.

Down for the Count

2010-01-15T09:41:00.003-07:00

A few interesting statistics from the February 2009 issue of Self Magazine:

34% of women had their first negative thoughts about their body before age 11.

33% of women went on their first diet between the ages of 11 and 13.

26% of women started dieting in high school.

47% of women say their body image has been affected by photos of models and stars.

65% of women say if they could go back in time, they wouldn't make themselves any slimmer; they would change how they felt about their looks.

I'm finally starting to feel like part of that last 65%.

Trading Game

2010-01-08T16:07:00.018-07:00

A few weeks ago I was invited to join a “Biggest Loser” challenge with some friends. We each had to contribute $30.00 to a pot of money as an entry fee and had to commit to weighing-in with each other for 12 weeks. Whoever loses the biggest percentage of weight by the end of the 12 weeks gets the money! I’ve been doing Weight Watchers since last March and have lost 22 pounds so far, so I figured this extra challenge would give me a little boost and some encouragement to work out regularly.

Yesterday the facilitator of this “Biggest Loser” challenge asked each participant to send in their “Top 5 Tips” for weight loss, exercise, and general healthy living. Here are my “Top 5 Tips”:

1. Don't trade what you want most for what you want in the moment. This is a quote my Weight Watchers leader shared with me. I say it to myself when I'm about to grab a Twix or something equally unhealthy! :o)

2. Stock up! Keep healthy snacks in your fridge, pantry, desk, purse, car...everywhere! Then when hunger hits you have no excuse for grabbing something that isn't a good choice.

3. Put your alarm clock/phone somewhere other than right next to your bed. I have a tendency to hit that snooze a few times, which means I won't have time to exercise. Putting the phone on my dresser across the room means I HAVE to get up to shut off the alarm. Once I'm out of the bed, I'm good to go.

4. Build up! If you're trying to do too many new things you are bound to get overwhelmed trying to keep up. If your goals are to eat healthier, exercise, and drink more water, try doing just one of those things for a week, then add on the next the following week, and so on.

5. Everything in moderation. Have a cupcake - but just have one and make a commitment to walk later that day. If you get too strict you are bound to break at some point and eat a whole tray of cupcakes!

Don't trade what you want most for what you want in the moment.

I’ve been dwelling on this little pearl of wisdom recently, realizing that it applies to so much more than weight loss. In my quest for FREEDOM, this quote is a constant reminder to me to think about what I really want:

Why yes, I’d love to wear cute new sweater to work on Monday. BUT I want financial FREEDOM more. Sure, I’d enjoy just watching T.V. and snacking on chocolate-covered pretzels. BUT I want FREEDOM from feeling sluggish more. Of course I find it easy to just shut the closet door and ignore the stockpile of hidden clutter. BUT I want the FREEDOM of organization more.

Here's to Freedom!

Managing Magazines

2010-01-07T14:51:00.009-07:00

While browsing the internet yesterday I came across a REDBOOK article entitled “26 Organizing Tips That Actually Work”. I’m not a regular reader of REDBOOK, but I found the tips in this article very DOABLE! I emphasize “doable” only because I often find the tips and advice given in magazines a bit impractical.

Here was my pick of the day yesterday -
20. Sift through your ever-growing stack of magazines and catalogs while on a plane, train, or bus trip. Bring a few clear plastic envelopes along with you to stash recipes you want to try, decorating ideas, and reference articles you tear out.

I did this activity while Mateo watched “Braveheart”. :o)
(If you're wondering "Why the smile?", refer to yesterdays post!)

I took clear plastic envelopes like those pictured here and started a frenzy of cutting and tearing. I had all kinds of clippings – everything from articles like “Terminating the Terrible Two’s” to “4th of July Craft Ideas for less than $1.00”. Not wanting to keep every little page, I also jotted down a few websites and products featured in the magazines that I’d like to try out.
This whole endeavor took a little over an hour, but I think it was well worth the time. I took a huge stack of old magazines and condensed it in to 4 plastic envelopes. I think the easy access of the reference articles, recipes, and crafting/decorating ideas will make me much more likely to actually refer to and USE them.

Ultimately, this is the tip that got me going -
2. Do one small organizational task daily, no matter how small. Clean out one drawer or the top tier of the spice rack. Just think: After a month, you'll have checked 30 things off your to-do list.

Incredible! Just do something small each day! Who would have thought…

Word Up!

2010-01-06T11:15:00.008-07:00

Yesterday while looking through some favorite blogs of mine I came across a post on TipJunkie that challenged me to pick a “Word of the Year”, inspired by this quote from Alli Edwards:

“A single word can be a powerful thing. It can be the ripple in the pond that changes everything. It can be sharp and biting or rich and soft and slow.”

I read through numerous comments on the post and decided in that moment that I needed to pick a word that would apply to my goals for the year. I ultimately concluded that FREEDOM will be my personal anthem for 2010.

I’m sure my husband loves that I’ve chosen this word, as one of his favorite movies of all time is “Braveheart”. At the gripping climax of the movie, Mel Gibson, with all the strength he can muster, shouts “FREEDOM!” as he takes the final torture that will end his life. I haven’t chosen this word for that reason - I don't feel tortured.

For me this word encompasses everything I want for myself and my family. It’s FREEDOM from my dodgy relationship with food. I’m not putting myself on a crazy strict diet, but I am working on changing my habits and dealing with the past demons that influence some of my food choices on a daily basis. Along with this I want FREEDOM from worrying about how I look. I have recently accepted that my body is changing. I’m getting older. I’ve had a baby. These aren’t things to feel guilty about – they are things to celebrate! With age comes wisdom (I hope!) and I ADORE my son.

As a family it’s FREEDOM from debt and worrying about money. We have college loans, have racked up a couple credit cards, and are paying for a car, not to mention childcare! But we’ve made it a goal to stick to our budget and spend wisely with future FREEDOM in mind. Who wants to spend their days worrying about money? Not me. I’d rather spend my days enjoying my family and friends.

I’d also like FREEDOM from clutter. If you’re reading this blog, you know me, and know that I am all about organization. But sadly, clutter can be displayed in an organized fashion and that’s how I’ve masked all the clutter we’ve got. I don’t know where some of the clutter came from – it’s just been building up for years I suppose. But now it’s time to say goodbye to it. I want to live in an organized, clutter-free home. I am a self-proclaimed “neat freak” and believe me – when the house is clean, organized, and clutter-free, I am a much happier person.

The word FREEDOM has spiritual implications for me as well. I know that life in Christ brings FREEDOM and I’m seeking to live out my life filled with that assurance. “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” - 2 Corinthians 3:17

I’m sure as the year progresses I will come up with other issues and items I’d like FREEDOM from, but for now those are the major ones I’ve made concrete goals to work on. I encourage you, as this New Year begins to choose a “Word of the Year”. You may just find yourself encouraged, challenged to take on something new, deal with something old or simply enjoy every bit of what you have.

Happy 2010 ya'll!

Just a few favorites to share...

2009-11-30T09:17:00.005-07:00

We woke up to a beautiful morning snow the day that I left for Africa. I decided to get my little monster bundled up and take him outside. He LOVED the snow and kept trying to touch it, but was bewildered by the little mittens I'd put on him and couldn't figure out how to use his hands with them on. It was really fun to see him trying to take it all in!Thanks to a work friend, Isaias had a special outfit to wear while rooting for the first Raiders game of the season. I won't say much more because the Raiders stink right now. Ugh. But Isaias sure is a winner!

What can I say? Just look at that face all lit up with happiness! He discovered this rocket-ship at our friends house. I've now purchased a similar one for him for Christmas! If I get that smile every time he plays with it I'll be happy as a clam.

Happy Fall!!

2009-10-28T10:16:00.006-06:00

Happy Halloween from Baby Isaias! These pictures are from a recent visit to a local pumpkin patch. Isaias LOVED the pumpkins and seemed to especially enjoy putting the corn stalks in his mouth. Ick! I'll be missing Isaias' 1st Halloween, as I'll be in South Africa - but was delighted to get to see him all dressed up and having fun at the pumpkin patch! Hope you all have a great Halloween holiday! HAPPY FALL!

Already?

2009-10-21T15:40:00.007-06:00

Enjoying a little nibble on my cell phone...

A natural on the laptop!

It appears Isaias has an affinity for technology - ALREADY!

Like father, like son.

9 days and counting!

2009-10-20T09:23:00.002-06:00

Only 9 days until I leave for South Africa! I am feeling very anxious about the trip but also very excited!!

I've been assigned the duty of "official blogger", so check out the link below to keep up on all our exciting adventures while in South Africa!

Can't wait!

http://imsamission.blogspot.com/

Who needs toys?

2009-10-13T09:12:00.003-06:00

Ms. Molly is very clever! Who needs a car when you have a Rubbermaid tub?

Brow-raising News!

2009-08-11T12:43:00.000-06:00

From the headline you may think that I have something marvelous to share, but alas, this is not the case. I do have a little tid-bit that is a joyous discovery for me, but may not be all that thrilling for you.

Recently, while reading a magazine by the infamous Martha Stewart, I came upon some beauty news that my heart had been longing to hear for some time. Here it is: “Your eyebrows are sisters, not twins”.

Told you. Not all that exciting, but for a girl who, for years has struggled with blonde, skinny eyebrows, one of which always seems longer and fuller than the other, this is glorious news!! I have tried almost every eyebrow pencil, powder, brush, and shaper available at Target & Sephora, and have never found the perfect match for my little brows. But, at last I can feel okay walking out the door with brows that aren’t perfectly exact!

Now, I like to think that this little gem came straight from Martha herself, so I am going to shush the little voice telling me it was most likely one of her brilliant assistants, who undoubtedly dreams up all of the Martha Stewart material. Don’t spoil my image of Martha please! But do leave this post with the knowledge that you are free from the house-arrest of the eyebrow police.

Some Summer Fun...

2009-08-04T12:31:00.008-06:00

A few snapshots from some of our summer adventures with Isaias....

From Isaias 1st trip to the zoo! I love this little grin - like he's trying to resist smiling!

Mateo helping Isaias "swim"!

Getting him ready for his 1st dip in the pool!

A personal "fave" of mine! Is there a cuter smile??

At the Renessaince Fair - like father, like son!

This is one happy baby!

My little duckling after a bath!

New adventures!

2009-07-15T09:50:00.003-06:00

Isaias started baby food a few weeks ago. Here he is looking a little surprised by the carrots!

They are a little hard to see cause they're tiny, but there are baby teeth in there! SO CUTE!

5k

2009-06-10T11:14:00.011-06:00

My friend Cari and I completed a 5k this past weekend in beautiful Colorado Springs. It was a fundraiser for The Salvation Army called Walk of Hope. We didn't come in first, but we weren't last either! We did get put to shame by an elderly man though, who consistently stayed just ahead of us. Here are a few snapshots from the adventure...

Dedicating Isaias!

2009-06-04T15:37:00.013-06:00

On May, 24 we dedicated Isaias Abram Marquez Conley at the Centennial Corps. It was truly a wonderful day that we were blessed to share with family and friends!

Both of our families were able to be there for the service. My father led the dedication service, as our mothers held the Salvation Army and American flags. Mateo's father led the dedication blessing at the conclusion, both in English and Spanish, as a way to celebrate our family heritage. Isaias was a wonderfully behaved little boy, as he always is, and looked very "studly" in his special outfit, complete with sweater vest.

There are many, many more pictures, that I will be scrapbooking very soon, as this will always be an incredibly special day in our hearts - dedicating our first child, Isaias.

Mommy & Daddy love you baby bear!

Stick Figure Family

2009-05-22T11:29:00.001-06:00

Make your Stick Figure Family at FreeFlashToys.com

Loopy Granny...

2009-05-21T16:24:00.000-06:00

Here is a conversation my Grandma had with our waitress yesterday -

Grandma - "Are you kidding me?"
Waitress - "I'm sorry?"
Grandma - "Your name is Gabby?"
Waitress - "Oh! Yes, it's short for Gabriella. Some people have trouble pronouncing it, so I use Gabby."
Grandma - "That is the strangest name I've ever heard!"

Needless to say, I left a rather large tip. Silly Grandma!

Isaias 1st Easter!

2009-04-13T15:39:00.000-06:00

I bought some giant eggs for him to take pictures with...but I couldn't get him to hold still! We got him a little duck for his Easter basket - which, as you can see, he wanted to eat! And this last photo is one of my personal faves - like an old man - big grin, but no teeth!

Smile caught on camera!

2009-03-16T15:43:00.000-06:00

After weeks of trying catch the smile on camera my wonderful mother finally got it! I can't help but smile myself when I see it! Enjoy!

Our Baby Has Arrived!

2009-02-10T20:27:00.000-07:00

Isaias Abram Marquez Conley

January 28, 2009 - 9:52 am

6 pounds, 6 ounces - 20 inches

Some Prego Pics!!

2009-01-21T21:06:00.001-07:00

Adorable flower bouquet made from baby socks, onesies, and hats! Babies room - safari theme! And some random ones of me and some of babies new clothes - Raiders gear for Grandpa Baker and Camo gear from Uncle Jeremy, the Marine. The whale outfit I bought cause it was just so darn cute!

16 days to go!

2009-01-16T08:56:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning and realized that there are only 16 days until I am due to have a baby and be a mommy! I'm kind of in shock! I mean, I knew it would happen, but the time is really almost here!

We had an appointment last Friday and the doc said all is looking well and that the baby can safely come any time now! Today I have another appointment and they will be checking to see if I am dilated at all - wow!

The whole family is anxious to meet our new little one! Daddy Mateo can't wait! And obviously I am MORE than ready to pop this little man out!

EXCITING TIMES!

Big Belly Update!

2008-12-15T10:09:00.000-07:00

Here I am, big ol' belly and all, getting things ready in the baby's room! I have a little over a month to go and then I'll be a mommy. I'm still in shock, still trying to mentally prepare, and STILL trying to decide on a name!

Updates: The doc's were worried about my iron, but that appears to have stabilized, and they are now concentrating on me eating more protein and drinking more water. I'm talking 80 grams of protein and at least a liter of water per day! Who can really eat that much protein? It's tougher than it sounds!

We attended some baby-momma classes that were very informative...and scary! I'm seriously hoping to be one of those ladies with a half-hour birth!

The baby is moving around like crazy - I'm starting to think he is going to be a soccer player or Olympian runner or something when he grows up...the kicking never stops.

And luckily, I haven't had any weirdos trying to touch my tummy. I heard about strangers just walking up and touching pregnant ladies bellies and I'm just glad it hasn't happened to me!

More pics and continued updates to come! I will REALLY try to be better about posting more often!

It's a BOY!

2008-09-29T10:43:00.001-06:00

Here is a pic from our latest ultrasound confirming that our baby is indeed, a BOY! In the first pic the little arrow is pointing to his pee-pee, just in case you need proof! Now we just need a name....

2 days and counting!

2008-09-16T16:10:00.000-06:00

On Thursday, as long as baby cooperates, we will finally find out if we are having a boy or girl! I am DYING to know and so is the rest of my family! We have picked out a girl name, Ema Elise, but haven't agreed on a boy's name yet...so wish me luck! It's a big decision. I mean this child has to live with whatever name we chose for an entire lifetime! I will keep you posted! Thursday's the big day!

On a side note - I have a bunch of baby shower pics to post up - they'll be on the way shortly. In the meantime, here is a little snack from the baby shower of me and my baby-daddy!

Go nuts for doughnuts!

2008-09-12T10:23:00.000-06:00

This morning at work some lovely and wonderful person put out two boxes of glorious doughnuts in the break room for all to share! Normally, being the WW inclined person I am, I would have forgone the doughnuts, but since I'm pregnant and am happy to put on some poundage, I decided to indulge. Not mention that I needed a bit of a sugar boost this cloudy AM.

Later this morning I went down to the break room to make some tea, only to find that while the doughnuts were still there, and still calling my name, someone had taken the liberty of placing a South Beach Diet Book on top of the closed doughnut box lids.

Who in their right mind would be so foolish! Why ruin a perfectly good Friday treat with a diet book. I say "Go nuts for doughnuts!" and feed a happy doughnut to the person who left the book!

Nostalgia

2008-08-15T14:36:00.000-06:00

It is grey and raining outside. The air smells of chimney smoke and spice candles. Parents are walking their children to school with new backpacks and freshly sharpened pencils. And my wonderful mother is baking apple crisp. I am brimming with wistful melancholy for the charming days of Fall.

Baby Adventures

2008-08-05T15:40:00.001-06:00

I never in my life imagined it would be so hard picking out baby things! I have been looking online for the past 3 weeks, scoping out bed linens, cribs, clothes, baby toys, strollers, car seats, and the list goes on. Now I know this sounds fun, and it really is for the most part, because you get to see all the adorable options that are available - but it's so hard to actually pick one! What if I pick the wrong crib or stroller? What if the clothes I chose aren't comfy? What if baby doesn't like the toys I picked out?

Here is the part that really frustrates me though - these people who have previously purchased these items write reviews on the product and rate it somehow, which you would think would be helpful...but it's not. Not at all. There seem to be an even number of good reviews and bad ones for every item! Someone throw me a bone here - or a diaper perhaps!

Our Baby!

2008-07-20T19:53:00.001-06:00

Here is the latest ultrasound picture of our baby (aka - sweetbun, as affectionately named by Auntie Anna!). Sweetbun was moving around A LOT and waving at Daddy Mateo! I thought it might be weird to post my uterus for all to see, but Anna assured me that in this instance, it is not weird! So there you have it! Next appointment in about 3 weeks!

Moving

2008-07-12T18:39:00.000-06:00

We are finally into our Colorado apartment after chilling at my parents house for a few days, and I must say that I LOVE it! It has 2 wonderfully sized bedrooms with huge closets, 2 bathrooms, a small but lovely kitchen, a washer and dryer, and a great living room - all for the glorious price of $800 a month! Can you believe it! Twice as much space for less than half the price of our Cali apartment.

We hired a moving company to come unload our U-Haul today mainly because I'm prego and was told not to lift more than 10 pounds, and Mateo simply couldn't do it on his own. I'll just say this - if you EVER move, hire a company. Ours was wonderul! What took Mateo and our siblings a much-appreciated day and a half to move took these dudes a little over an hour! It was amazing and allowed us to start unpacking right away. 5 stars to them!

Other than that, we've just been exploring our new town, finding all the important things - like Target!

Doctor Visit #1

2008-07-07T13:47:00.000-06:00

Sorry for the delay in posts! I've been out of town all week!

We had our first baby-doctor appointment about 2 weeks ago and saw the baby on the ultrasound! It looks like a little cashew and we could see the heart beating at a crazy 155 beats per minute, which I don't even get up to when I exercise! The doctor said I am 10 weeks along and due on February 3rd!

I had to get several vials of blood drawn for a series of general tests they do on pregnant ladies. And I must say - I was wishing that Jenny had been my nurse because the lady who took my blood was NOT very gentle and left my arm bruised and hurting. That doesn't usually happen to me, so perhaps it's not really her fault - maybe it's a pregnancy thing?

Anyway - I had planned to post the ultrasound picture up for you all to see, but it appears that Mateo packed it while I was out of town! I promise to post the next one!

We have another appointment tomorrow, so stay tuned!

Fertile Myrtle

2008-06-19T16:08:00.001-06:00

And so it begins! I am officially PREGO! A little Mateo/Michelle is on the way! I've been extremely tired, thrown up a heap, and already had to go up a bra size! Fantastic times ahead! This will be the first of many "adventures in pregnancy" posts I'm sure! Get ready to be aunties!

My Spill

2008-03-20T21:51:00.000-06:00

My wonderful husband helping out to the car

My foot and leg in a cast! At least my toes look cute!

Well, I wish I had some really cool story to tell about how I injured myself...like that I was snowboarding, or boxing, or rockclimbing...I'd even settle for jogging...but in reality, I was just walking. Speed walking!

Heather and I were walking Sunday afternoon and I stepped on this little acorn seed thingy and rolled my ankle and then fell over on it cringing in pain. Had to hobble home and then went to the emergency room, where they told me it was a bit too swollen to be sure about the x-rays, so I have to go back for more on Tuesday. The doc said it looks like a nasty sprain and perhaps a strained ligament of some sort! Yipee!

So I spent Monday and Tuesday in bed watching TV - which sounds like heaven to some, but not for me - I was bored out of my mind. I attempted to teach on Wednesday hobbling around on my crutches but saw when I got home that I had only made my ankle look more swollen and bruised. So today I broke down and rolled myself around school in a wheelchair.

The perks - Mateo does anything I ask! And my students do too! :o) Take advantage while it lasts huh!

St. Patty's Day

2008-03-17T21:42:00.000-06:00

Well, I had planned on going out with some of my "teacher friends" tonight, but alas, instead I am stuck at home, not wearing a bit of green. I am, however, popping vicadin and elevating my foot, as it appears I have a nasty sprain, and a torn ligament of some sort. Pictures and explanation to follow.

I will however, leave a little St.Patty's tidbit for you each to ponder.

While at a lovely St.Patty's dinner with my grandma on Saturday night we sang an Irish Folksong titled My Wild Irish Rose. Please read the chorus lyrics and let me know what you think of the last line....hmmmm.....

My wild Irish Rose, the sweetest flower that grows. You may search everywhere, but none can compare with my wild Irish Rose. My wild Irish Rose, the dearest flower that grows, And some day for my sake, she may let me take the bloom from my wild Irish Rose.

Small Life

2008-03-06T23:01:00.000-07:00

Just watching a good oldie tonight and this quote stuck with me....

"Sometimes I wonder about my life. I lead a small life. Small, but valuable. And sometimes I wonder, do I do it because I like it, or because I haven't been brave? So much of what I see reminds me of something I read in a book, when shouldn't it be the other way around? I don't really want an answer. I just want to send this cosmic question out into the void. So, good night, dear void."

-Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan), You've Got Mail

A few Christmas bits...

2007-12-21T11:41:00.000-07:00

Playing outside!
My dad wanted you all to see his lovely Christmas lights!
It's freezing!

Galileo...In Honor of Jen and her love for dear Christopher

2007-10-08T21:57:00.000-06:00

In the year of fourteen ninety-two

When Columbus sailed the ocean blue

Had he landed on India's shore

You might never have come to knock on my door.

Who needs a rhyme or a reason

Some dreams were made to find

So I know that I must follow

Ask me just how much I love you

You are starlight, I'm Galileo

Even on the darkest night oh

I will find the shining light of our love.

Through the rain clouds thundering nights

Mr. Franklin stood there holding his kite

He was crazy always pressing his luck

But he got what he wanted when lightning struck, yeah.

Who needs a rhyme or a reason

Some dreams were made to find

So I know that I must follow

Ask me just how much I love you

You are starlight, I'm Galileo

Even on the darkest night oh

I will find the shining light.

I believe in you and the special love we could share

And maybe one day darling you'll turn around

And all I really know is I will be there.

Why yes, in fact, I AM a hula dancer...

2007-10-06T22:37:00.000-06:00

This past week we had a "Unity Day" program at our school that the students put on. As teachers, we choose whether we'd like our students to do a "cultural" song, reading, or dance of some sort for the performance. A teacher friend of mine suggested we join our two classes and do a hula dance together. I thought this was a splendid idea because I really had NO idea what to do. (Plus I have fond memories of a special friend of mine doing the hula at church...enough said there I think!)

Practices commenced and the day of the program came and I must say I was VERY proud of my little hula dancing class! They really were adorable. After the program one of our vice principals came up to me and applauded our performance and how beautiful and creative our performance was....and so on.

I was very pleased with this reaction from her because she tends to be a bit of a joy killer on a normal basis. Saying she isn't particularly friendly is an understatement.

Back to the story though - our conversation progressed and she asked if I had ever had hula lessons and if I was a professional hula dancer, etc. Now, anyone who saw the performance would know that I am not a real hula dancer - I mean, I did my best but...but really...real hula dancers are amazing. I am not.

I started laughing and said that I wasn't a professional and hadn't had any training, but that I had lived in Hawaii as a child, just to appease her. (I lived there when I was 2, and only for like 3 months!) Well, she took my saying "No, I'm not a trained hula dancer" as modesty since I had lived in Hawaii. She insisted I stop being modest and take credit for how wonderfully we'd taught the kids to hula. I had no idea what to say! I kept telling her that I wasn't trained in the art of hula, but she what adamant. What could I do?!?

So I gave in. "Okay, okay...I AM, in fact, a hula dancer."

A+ for Mrs. Marquez...at least from that principal.

At First Sight...

2007-09-26T18:32:00.000-06:00

This is a picture from the very first time I met Mateo. As you can imagine, he was hard to miss in this bright yello jumper! But just look at those pretty eyes (with eyelashes any girl would envy), and charming little grin! What a handsome devil he is!

We were at a retreat in Northern California, and had been "eyeing" each other all weekend, but both of us being quite shy, neither of us made the first move. We actually had to have a friend intervene on our behalves...thanks to Mike O'Brien is ceratainly due.

Finally, Mateo worked up the nerve to say hi to me, and because I wasn't expecting this, I just said hi and kept on walking. I'm a jerk.

But then fate (a.k.a Mike and Jesus) stepped in, and we ended up going to Starbucks with a group of people, and when the baristas called out "Potatoe" instead of "Mateo", I knew it was meant to be.
I quickly grabbed his drink and strategically placed it next to me so that he would have to sit there. Conversation started, and continued throughout the day, into the early morning hours after our meetings that night. And then Sunday morning he asked to sit next to me in the Sunday Service.

And the rest, as they say, is history....

Margarita Marilyn

2007-09-25T19:10:00.000-06:00

I have a student named Marilyn who has provided me with plenty of commical fodder. The greatest to date was probably when we were playing a game called "Picnic" where you say your name and then what you will bring to our class picnic. The key here is that you choose a food that starts with the same letter as your first name - for example...I'm Michelle and I'll be bringing macaroni to our class picnic. Now most students just went right down the line with the usual foods - Andrews bringing apples, Marcos bringing milk, Jacquelines bringing jam, etc. But then, my friends, we get to Marilyn. 7 year old, 3rd grade Marilyn, who decides that she is bringing Margaritas to our class picnic of 7 year olds! Well, bring it on Marilyn! You are invited to my picnic any day! With Virgin Margaritas of course!
Today Marilyn provided me with another great moment of laughter when she was presenting her "All About Me" poster to our class. She got to a section of the the poster that said "I'm super cool because....", and she was to fill it in. Well boy did she! She proceeded to tell our class that she was super cool because she "Keeps it real!" Do 3rd graders even know what this phrase means? Well, it was a fabulous moment, and I laughed quite a bit, and though my students didn't understand why they were laughing, they laughed along too.
The crazy thoughts and conversations with children will never cease to humor me!

Wii and Mii

2007-08-30T20:37:00.000-06:00

Okay, I don't know who out there has tried the Wii but if you haven't you are SERIOUSLY missing out! My lil sis and her fiance brought theirs over the other night and it was sooooo much fun! Not to mention a killer work-out!
We did a few rounds of bowling, which was pretty much just like going to the alley itself! And then it got really good with the boxing! My sister is pro at this, so my first few rounds against her were a little weak. But after some practice I am proud to say that I took down Mateo and his brother hard-core! I am one tough boxer! Don't mess with the best!
So, if you know someone who has one, try it! If you have one...come over so I can play some more!

By the by - I'd love one for Christmas! (Hint, hint Mateo!!)

Space Ranger #2 - And you can see why...

2007-08-04T21:59:00.000-06:00

I don't know what it is about this Disneyland ride - but I love it! I obviously stink at firing lazer guns at little aliens (in my defense - Mateo turned the car every time I aimed!), but you can clearly see by the expression on my face that I don't mess around! This ride is no laughing matter! To Infinity & Beyond!

Just Call Me Betty...

2007-07-26T19:10:00.001-06:00

While today was not the most interesting of days, I did have a bit of a giggle while riding in to work. Mateo had to leave insanely early this morning, so I elected to get a ride with his little brother. Thinking back, this may not have been the smartest of choices, as the fear for my life was at the forefront of my mind the entire journey, but it's what I did. Now, Mateo's brother, Lucas, drives a 1992 Honda, which he has turned into a super lowrider. This car of his is in dire need of a paint job (or two) and is lacking some of the finer things in life - carpet, windows that roll up or down, door panels, etc. He did buy this car with the intention of it being a "project car", so while it isn't supposed to look "ghetto", it does. Now, picture this - Lucas driving like a mad-man, bumping Kanye West in the car, while I sit in the passenger seat, looking very teacher-ish in my button-up shirt and dress pants, holding a pan of freshly baked cupcakes made as a special treat for some of star-students. I looked over at one point, wondering what someone that pulled up next to us might think, and thought to myself - Betty Crocker in an R&B bumping, ghetto lowrider. Lean like a cholo!

The Hacker

2007-06-04T22:21:00.000-06:00

Every morning around 5:30, when I am gently rising from my sleepy slumber, I encounter a man I have come to call "The Hacker". I've never actually seen this man, but he and I collide every dawn. You see, in our apartment building there is a mystery man with some kind of terrible coughing problem. Only, I am doing his "cough" an injustice, calling it a mere "cough". This isn't just ANY cough, its one of those coughs where you can literally hear the repulsive phlegm coming up out of this mans throat. It is truly revolting, and I have to put up with it every morning. Just imagine the most disgusting "cough" you've ever heard and you'll have some idea of what I'm talking about.

A few mornings ago I was up watching the news and making toast and tea, and I heard The Hacker start his own morning routine of walking outside and clearing his nasty throat. I have lived in this apartment for a year now, and I finally got fed up. I yelled out the window, "Go to the doctor already"! Well, he must have known I was talking to him, because seconds after I said that he retorted back with, "I can't! I don't have any insurance"! At which point I quickly dropped to the floor, trying to avoid being seen, and just started laughing because I had started this strange conversation through my kitchen window with a person I've never even seen but loathe entirely.

Perhaps I should have gone down and talked to him. Maybe I should have politely asked him to take his vile hacking to the alley so the entire apartment building wouldn't hear it in the early morning hours. I didn't though, sadly. So, much to my dismay, The Hacker and his early morning phlegm live on.

Educational Exerpt

2007-02-06T21:23:00.000-07:00

I was writing a post to my class and Michelle thought this was funny. So here goes...

"Just recently I had to use critical thinking. This may sound funny, but I used it to decide whether or not to get married. I gathered all the information and made a well informed decision to get married, and it has definitely been a good choice. It has impacted my life in a positive way."

--Mateo