The A-Team

Happy Balentimes Day!!!!!!

2012-02-15T20:39:00.000-08:00

We've been hearing a whole lot of "Happy Balentimes Day" around here... it's awesome! (In case you were wondering I was referring to Peyton.... okay and Wes a little too). Every time we've had cookies, cupcakes, or balloons she says it. And out of nowhere today she busted it out... too funny.

And we've done quite a bit of celebrating Balentimes Day here too.

1st: Church Playgroup party at my friend Kim's house. (seriously if you live near me and want in... regardless of where you go to church/ or don't, let me know, we mom's have just as much fun as the kids). :) We decorated cookies, decorated our Valentine's bags, played with all of Kim's fun toys, and passed out Valentine's to our friends. It was a blast! Ella's friend from next door came with the Brobergs and exclaimed half way through the party that, "this is the best Valentine's Day party EVER!" It was special.

2nd: Peyton and I went to story-time at the library where they read lots of Valentine's books followed by cookie decoration. That's at 10:30am at the Perris branch library for any interested in joining us each week.

3rd: My parents hosted a Valentines/FHE for all the kids and families... heaven for them all. Sugar high with cousins... nothing is better. We decorated cookies (I hate this activity because I can't resist a good frosted sugar cookie and always eat too many). :) Then the kids did a scavenger hunt for their loot from Nana and Boppie (pop rocks and fun dips). Then we all played a good BINGO game. Followed by heart shaped pasta and poison lemonade... it was bad! The lemonade that is. :) Fresh lemonade 2 days later is NOT fresh anymore. We ended the night with face painting and balloons.

Thanks Nana and Boppie

Valentine's Day: I made blue pancakes (man's pink right? Okay, really I did not know I was out of red food coloring) and heart shaped eggs and heart shaped bacon for breakfast. Then Wes went to work and Peyton and I prepared the house for him to come home. We made him a finger painted card, wrote nice notes around the house, and had a candle lit dinner for 2 set and ready for him to come home too. I even wore his favorite outfit, which I will not post photos of. :) (P.S. Peyton was asleep before he got home, so no weirdness for her). We finished the night with a romantic movie... i.e.: The Bourne Ultimatum. :)

On our way to our favorite place... Walmart! Not really but it's across the street so I go often just to get out of the house when I don't have a car. So... we went there for some fun V-day activities and ingredients.

We finger painted a big card for daddy... that I framed for him from Peyt.

And when he got home dinner was hot and ready for him...along with the cheesiest "romantic" songs... we kept laughing during dinner at the stupid songs that would play (I used an online "romantic" play list- so bad).

I love my family and love to share my feelings of love with them daily. But, it is fun to do special things on occasion like fancy dinners at home with music and candles... so I embrace all holidays, even silly ones like Valentine's Day. Plus, we did a nice lesson for Peyton on Christ's love and gift for us... I am sure it really resonated with her too. ;)

Ye Ole' Cross-eyes

2012-02-03T16:21:00.000-08:00

Peyton learned a new trick this past week... she is obsessed with doing cross-eyes. Once she does it, she knows how, then she'll keep doing it over and over because she loves to make us laugh. We have to cover her eyes or tell her to stop or she never will.

This video below, we tried to get her to do it on command... which is a little harder because she wasn't in the habit. But, you get a good idea, even if it is not her best.

Chick-Fil-A: Super Heroes

2012-02-01T21:53:00.000-08:00

Every Tuesday the Moreno Valley Chick-Fil-A does a 'Family Fun Night'. We go on occasion. This last Tuesday Peyton and I met the Broberg family there for their "Super Hero" night. Unfortunately Weston B. was working. I found out about the theme in the middle of the afternoon and was away from home all day. So, don't judge me on Peyton's poor costume, I put it all together in about 10 minutes and I woke her from her nap to go, thus her crazy hair. :)

We had fun though. We got our dinner, which was "soup"er (free soup for dressing up in a super hero costume, and Peyt and I went in matching capes). Then Petals the clown painted the kids faces, made them balloon art (a poodle, a dinosaur, and a sword), and Peyton hassled the cow the rest of the evening. He made the mistake of dancing with her for a while and she would NOT leave him alone after that. She kept chasing him trying to hold his hands. I finally had to come rescue him after a while. And every time he would walk by our table she would grab her little balloon sword and try to get him.

Like I said... we love taking advantage of fun free activities around where we live. It makes life a little more interesting. Plus, it passes the evening more quickly... always a plus.

Peyton was "Super Cute"

Lunar New Year

2012-01-31T20:31:00.000-08:00

We spent Saturday in Downtown Riverside for the Lunar New Year celebrations. It's fun to take advantage of the free, fun festivities that happen around where we live.

The festival was basically a lot of local businesses with booths set up, either selling things, giving away things, or doing demonstrations, etc.

This booth was doing drum demonstrations. Peyton was NOT having it.

And there were a lot of interesting people there.

Including these sumo guys.

My mom and I dressed up in traditional Korean (?) outfits.

We also tried some new and interesting foods.

We weren't there very long, but we had some fun.

18 Months

2012-01-29T20:36:00.000-08:00

Peyton had her 1st 'official' day in nursery!!! Unofficially, she has been going since the beginning of January- per the nursery leaders request. :) The first day she went they said she did awesome. "Just a few tears when they sang 'I am a Child of God.'" Only my crazy baby would cry when they sang that, and at no other time. It all started when I sang it to a baby doll of hers when we were playing and she got jealous. Since then she cries every time she hears that song. We are working on that though. (Must admit, I think it is hilarious though). They also commented on how smart and sweet she is. It makes me so happy to hear those things.

My baby and I on her big day as a big girl.

She was totally staring off into space and must have had a comfortable stare going because she refused to look at me, and this was after like 30 seconds.... :)

Other things about my 18 month old toddler.... not baby.

-Weighs 24 lbs, don't remember her height or head. (whoops)
-Dr. said she has a high IQ, and is at a 22-24 month old level.
-She obsesses over our fish, Gill. If it was up to her we would feed it every 5 minutes and she would do it every time.

-Has 12 teeth.

-When she sees someone eating and she wants some, she will walk up to you and make a 'chomping" noise.
-Loves to wave 'hi' to people and is very VERY friendly. She makes new friends old and young wherever we go.

-Favorite activity is still reading.

-Jumps off things with no regard to the result and rarely cries even when she biffs it.
-Loves Sesame Street. Favorite characters are Elmo (of course :/ ) and Cookie Monster. When she sees him she says, "Coooookie. Yeah yeah yeah yeah."
-She talks all day long. I can't even count anymore the words she knows. She repeats everything we say and can communicate effectively with words or sign language almost anything she wants. But, when we are in a group she is quiet and plays but doesn't talk much. I truly think she is taking it all in. She understands soooo much it is quite amazing. Learns funny new animals sounds all the time too... like Hippo, rhino and duck.
(This is her face when she makes a hippo sound)

-She likes to stand on her head... with no arms is her favorite.
-She does a funny glare.
-Favorite food: anything noodles, fruit snacks, and apples (but only whole she gets angry when I cut them up).
-Throws tantrums... like roll on the floor tantrums. (It is funny because she gets on the floor so daintily)
-Loves to load and unload dishes (she puts all the silverware in and out, and does the pots and pans well too-seriously she does a good job).
-Has gone pee-pee on the potty about 3-4 times.
-Can almost repeat the entire alphabet with me. (Most of the letters sound pretty similar though).
-When asked her name she will almost always start with "Ummmmm". Sometimes she will answer with "Ummmmm- Pey Pey", and sometimes it is just "Ummmmmmm", followed by nonsense.
-Cries when singing Child of God" except for before bed or nap.
-Sleeps between 7:30-8:30 and wakes between 7:30-8:30. 1 nap.
-Loves to sing songs, and will try to sing or do hand effects with you if she knows it.
(Singing "happy and you know it shout hooray")

-Loves the park, especially the slides and swings.

-Loves looking for and waving to the moon.
-Everything she likes and we do, after we are done she will look at us, put up 1 finger and say "one more" (probably only we could understand what she says though).

-Tries to make silly faces with us.

-Gives GREAT hugs and kisses to almost everyone. And if she won't it's usually because she wants you to chase her.

2012-01-26T22:51:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know we all use it. We all have become subject to spending hours on the site pinning and liking crafts, hairdo (one which I am sporting now in hopes of having curly hair tomorrow morning), but let's be honest the real reason we love it is all the food ideas. I swear I pin more food, sweet, and snack ideas then anything else. There is an occasional work out pin (to get the gluts I want), but then I see how to make home made Snickers and I've completely forgotten the arms I want!

The problem with Pinterest is this. I just went out in my garage and ran/walked for 30 minutes in hopes of getting some sort of exercise in. Don't judge me for my short attention span. However, once I am done "working out" I come on the computer to relax. After looking at Pinterest all I wanna do is snack. I give in to these urges, then instantly feel guilty. Why do I do it? Because food looks really good. What I need to remember is this.... "Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels." And once I feel skinny, I will tell you if that is true or not.

Some pictures of Pinterest recipes I've tried.

Zucchini baked with tomatoes, mozzarella, basil and bread crumbs. So good!!!

Crescent roll/string cheese pizza bites.... ehh.

Meanwhile.........

2012-01-25T00:54:00.000-08:00

While Wes and I were out frolicking in the city of San Francisco, Peyton was having a world of fun without us.

She spent Friday night, all of Saturday and most of Sunday with her Aunt Kati and Uncle Patrick in Hermann. They took her to the L.A. Zoo and seemed like they had a blast together. When we would call she was either sleeping or reading books... which made me feel confident that she was happy (those are her favorite things to do). I know she also had fun playing with Happy and George, Kati's cats, although I can speak for the cats when I say they probably didn't enjoy it as much as she did. I think Patrick enjoyed changing her diapers the most... we got the funniest text message from him in regards to the size of her turds. hahahahaha

Hayley was off school and kindly offered to take her Sunday night and all day Monday. (We got home at about midnight Monday, so we spent the night at my parents and took her home in the morning). Hayley sent me texts throughout the day that said things like, "Ry is excited for Peyt." "She is playing with cousins and we are getting ready for a bath." "Peyton just bombed on Pinkberry with mango and strawberries." And, I got this awesome picture of her with flowers in her hair and no pants. Just like her, loving to be nude after a diaper change and bombing on frozen yogurt.

So, it's no surprise she didn't miss us and we missed her like crazy. Although, she was giddy once we got home. She just laughed and ran around the house for like an hour. Cute lil' thing!!!!! I will tell you this though, knowing she was in good hands made the entire trip SOOOOOO much more ENJOYABLE. Thank goodness for willing, loving and trustworthy family!!!

Her she is wearing her new China town pajamas.

San Francisco: Final Day

2012-01-23T22:07:00.000-08:00

Our last day in San Fran... we were so sad to leave. But, man we were also so worn down we actually looked forward to relaxing for an hour on the airplane. We also had 1 more full day in the city and just a few more things we really wanted to do.

Starting with...........

Yes, that IS the Full House park with the "painted ladies" in the background. Finding the house where Danny, Joey, Jesse, DJ, Stephanie and Michelle lived was VERY important to us on this trip. And, we did sing the theme song the majority of the time we were driving around.

If you've somehow forgotten what I am taking about (heaven forbid) watch this link. It is sure to bring back found memories. "Du wa du bop ba dou!"

However, as we were at the park we realized that this was NOT the house they show at the beginning of almost every episode... so we had to find the actual house too. You know this one below.....

And........

We did!!!!!!! :)

After this life altering moment we went back and parked our car again at our hotel to utilize the free parking. Then we walked a few blocks up and rented bikes for the day. My thoughts on the bikes: awesome to bike the bridge and hell to bike around the city. The hills (even the ones that don't look huge) were pretty tough. There were a few moments we would be biking uphill and I just couldn't go any more so I would have to jump off walk to the top and jump back on once we got there. However, biking downhill was AWESOME!

This was the worst hill of all. It was HUGE!!!!!!!

So, now that I've said that, I assume you know what we did this day. We biked along the marina (almost all flat land) and over the Golden Gate bridge. It was a beautiful day, with a slight breeze and the ride was great. Our initial plan was to ride into Sausalito, but once we got across the bridge we decided against it and headed back to eat lunch and get a Ghirardelli's ice cream sundae and enjoy the area roundabout (the Cannery, Ghirardelli Sq, Hyde Pier, etc). :) (P.S. I had some fun editing these photos, just saying.)

The other side......

With our sailor friend.

Meandering back in the city after our initial bike ride. We just kept on riding around. Luckily our bike rental place provided baskets to hold our stuff and locks when we wanted to leave them for a while. Seriously, if you are going to be around pier 39 or the marina... biking is the way to go. (In these pictures to come, please disregard our hair... we both suffered painfully from helmet head).

We had lunch in Ghirardelli square at some diner (like Ruby's). We didn't like it, but it did have a good view of Alcatraz and the ocean and Hyde St Pier.

Hyde St. Pier

This one is for Ned and Heidi :)

As the time approached to head to the airport, we drove along with coast and enjoyed the beautiful view of the ocean at sunset. We stopped at a restaurant called The Cliff House on the coast (just for the great view) and happened to come across a search for a lost swimmer so we watched that for a bit. We walked into Golden Gate Park for all of 5 minutes to find the Dutch Windmill and although we saw it from a distance it was too dark to do much more.

Once we returned our car and were all checked into the airport I finally felt safe enough to mention how lucky we had been on this trip and how perfect everything had gone. I didn't want to jinx us earlier. But, I jinxed us anyway... because not half an hour later we realized we left our Ipod and headphones in a drawer at the hotel. We called but to no avail. I am not going to lie, I was pretty ticked for about 2 hrs after this. Just thought I would mention the 1 bad thing about the trip, so you don't think everything is always perfect. ;)

Wes reading as we waited for our flight. I had to throw this in because since he started the 2nd Hunger Games book, he and his conversation have been M.I.A. ;)

Obviously, I got over that, and can tell you we had a good time. That is actually an understatement. We had an absolutely-fantastically wonderful-awesome-enjoyable-spectacular time!!!!!

It was like a 2nd honeymoon and I am so looking forward to more anniversaries just like this with my Hubster! Thanks again Weston B. for making my life so wonderful even when it is hard, I am glad to be by your side. :)

P.S. Our song of the week was definitely M83- Midnight City

San Fran: Day 3

2012-01-23T11:46:00.000-08:00

This was probably my favorite day of our whole trip. And, we probably walked a good 5-6 miles so it was a good thing I brought tennis shoes. We just decided after spending so much on parking the day before we would leave our car at the hotel (free parking) and walk, trolley, bus, or subway the day away. And, it was AWESOME!!! I love doing that because you see the nitty-gritty of a city. However, we didn't totally plan it well, because there were no buses or trolley's on the street to get to our hotel. So again... we did LOTS and LOTS of walking.

We started our day by walking the cute streets all around our hotel. And, it just so happened that only about 3 blocks from where we were staying was the Palace of the Fine Arts and the Exploratorium. The Palace of the Fine Arts is one of the most beautiful places in San Fransisco. We loved that building and park. We walked around, sat on the grass and ate our "breakfast" (little complimentary danishes from the hotel). And, we walked into the exploritorium without realizing where we were or that we were supposed to pay... whoops. It wasn't until we were far into it that we started noticing everyone wearing admission stickers. But, it was an awesome place, and we would love to bring our kids back someday. This was like a science nerds heaven. It was a pretty rad place with some cool things to explore. After these fun activities we walked to a nearby frozen yogurt shop and ate our yogurt and people watched for a while... I don't know about you, but people watching is a favorite activity of mine in any crowded place.

I was the photographer in the Exploratorium... but I swear I had fun participating too. :) However, Wes truly was like a kid in a candy store in here. He absolutely loved this place and would've spent the day in here if I didn't have so much else I wanted to see.

This camera/water thing was neat. It was one of those expensive high res cameras (like Planet Earth) that you could change the speed and catch a water drip at different times. It was so cool... plus, you could put yourself in the picture, like so.

More fun, "sciencey" activities.

After the Palace of Fine Arts, Exploratorium and yogurt we started our 2 mile walk towards the marina to buy our trolley/bus/transportation pass for the day. Again, we saw some fun things; like Alcatraz from different vantage points, Ghirardelli sq. (I became quite familiar with the bathroom here because it was clean, and we found ourselves in this area quite often, so it was a good go to place to pee), and a number of "characters". While waiting to board the trolley we witnessed "escape man" who gave us a good show, butt crack and all.

Wes and I both agreed riding the trolley was probably one of our favorite activities of the entire trip. We almost always chose to hang off the side. And we really had to tuck in a few times to avoid hitting loading trucks, moving cars, etc. It was great!

We rode the trolley into China town and walked around there for a bit. Talk about entering a new country. I swear we left America for a bit and truly were in China. The parks were crazy, the food was crazy, the buildings and people seemed very foreign. I loved this place! We bought P.J. (Peyton) the cutest little green Chinese pj's while we were there.

This is Wes, just trying to look like a native of the area.

From China town we took the subway to the Castro District. In case you aren't familiar with the Castro District it is the gay/lesbian area of San Fran, and apparently a mecca for gays. And, that is no joke. We will leave it at that.

We walked from the Castro District to the Mission District so we could eat at a place we saw on Man Vs. Food. It supposedly started the mission style burrito. I don't know if it was because we were starving by this point or what, but the food was Delish!!!!!!!

It got a little dicey from here on out. We just started walking and ended up in a shady area. The only other people around were bums, and men on unicycles. However, we did find the City Hall building which was gorgeous, but even this area was a little ghetto. So, what did we do? Oh, we just kept on walking. Of course, it wouldn't be a trip for Wes and I if at some walking point we weren't asked if we wanted to buy weed. So, here we checked that off our list. ;)

We walked through Union Sq. again, we walked by the Grace Cathedral, we found another trolley and rode it for a while. After walking for a long time and not really knowing where we were or where we wanted to go we found a safe place to rest our weary legs for a bit. Ruth's Chris Steakhouse. We popped in and ordered the greatest dessert on the planet. Literally. Berries and Cream......... oh mercy help me! It is so good. We got that and a Creme Brulee to share.

Then we finally made our way back to the hotel where we soaked and rubbed our tired little feet. It was a good day!

San Francisco: Day 2

2012-01-20T07:03:00.000-08:00

Saturday!!!

We had most of our day planned out, thanks to a nice local lady we met at Benihana. She was there with her 12 year old daughter and 3 of her friends. They were the nicest, cutest, table mates. She gave us some ideas for the week and we took her advice. So, Saturday morning we found ourselves at The Ferry Building for the Farmer's Market. We had so much fun walking around, testing out all the organic fruits, vegetables, hummus, and scenery. It was such a neat building with some really cool views of the city. We checked out the booths lining the walkway and ended up having some caricatures done of us by a homeless man.... hahahaha. We liked it though, and he too gave us some fun ideas of things to do that weekend as well.

Some photos at the Farmer's Market (Ferry Building) and round about.

Ewwww... look at all these mushrooms!

Our caricature

From The Ferry Building we headed down to Pier 39 and the Fisherman's Wharf area to just hang around. We ate at the Boudins restaurant on actual Pier 39, saw the sea lions, a juggler, street performers (our favorite was a guy who had a bush he would hold in front of himself to hide from people, then when they walked by he would make a noise and shake the bush.... people freaked, it was Hi-Larious!) and ended up by Fisherman's Grotto and the end of the pier by the old weird arcade, Musee Mecanique. We spent way too much time in the Arcade laughing at the weird games, watching people attempt them and finding out how cool we are. BTW, I had my fortune read there and it was spot on!!! (It was a machine fortune). We talked to another local lady in there who swears by the machine. She said before she makes any life changing decisions she comes to the Grandmother machine and sees what it says... she also said it has never been off) Curious!

Yummy, fresh clam chowda'. Wes got their chili, which was pretty good too.

We watched some of the fishermen bring these big boys in fresh off the boat.

We got our 1st photo booth photos done in the arcade too. Funny story... the 2nd photo was supposed to be us kissing, I messed up and thought the flash went off (my eyes were closed) so instead we got a true candid-utterly surprised looking photo. Seriously, I know our faces are crazy but totally unplanned crazy.

After the arcade, we walked around a little more and did some window shopping, we didn't really know what else to do or where to go... plus, we had spent way too much on parking so we decided to head towards the hotel and see if anything "called" to us. It did.

We stopped at the bottom of a street in the North Beach area directly under Coit Tower (Telegraph hill) and decided to hike to the top. We walked up a TON of stairs... somewhere close or over 500 we think (someone had chalked numbers all the way up but they became hard to read towards the top). It was super dark and did I mention we hike a kajillion stairs? The craziest part was the whole way up lining the sides of these stairs were homes, with front doors facing us. CRAZY people! They are all probably in awesome shape though. We got to the top... a little winded and our legs sore, and then saw the parking lot to drive up there. Hahahahaha... we know, we are dorks. BUT, we had some more cool views and a better experience then those who simply drove to the top. The tower ended up being closed (not surprising as it was late), so we just walked around and looked in the windows.

While this is just a small glimpse, you can see the kind of stairs we were climbing on our way up, as well as the awesome view of the city lights in the background. It was pretty stupendous!

I was being the Coit Tower ghost... the one I made up at least. :)

After that, we headed back to our hotel and planned for our next day.

Our San Francisco Treat!

2012-01-19T21:51:00.000-08:00

Wes and I spent our 6th anniversary (January 6) in San Fransisco City for 3.5 days! Boy did we have a BLAST!!!!!! I wish we were still there. We left Peyton at home (which was best for us all) and in good hands, with the Alemans on Friday, Kati and Patrick on Saturday/Sunday, and Hayley the rest of the time. We are so blessed to have family nearby and willing to help out with her. Thank you again everyone for the help and rides to the airport. Peyton honestly didn't miss us one bit (she cried when we left for home). And, while I missed her fiercely, it was so nice to just be with Wes enjoying time alone together! By the end of our trip we felt like we had practically seen everything in the city, even if we just drove by or through an area, and were tired and ready to come home.

Friday:
We left from LAX on our first flight ever together! I love to fly; probably because it means I am going somewhere fun and far.

Just a few photos to document our first fight.

After the flight, checking out our rental car and the drive we got to our hotel located on Lombard street and decided to just drive around and see what we would find. Btw, we loved our hotel location. It was a clean, safe, bum free area, that had tons of shops and restaurants all around. It ended up that our hotel was probably a mile or a mile and a half from the crooked part of Lombard (possibly the most crooked street in the world). So, we decided to drive it. After we drove down, we parked, walked back up via the stairs on the side of the street, and then ran down screaming. People just laughed and pointed at us, but we just had to do it.

Our view driving down

We had to take a photo of this garage just to show how "hilly" the streets here are. I am sure garage doors are super expensive being that they have to be custom made. Notice the slant of the door?

After Lombard street we just kept on driving and enjoyed the scenery, having no idea where we were or where we were going for that fact. We drove through North Beach, and by Washington Sq. We ended up in the Japanese Area (on purpose) to enjoy dinner at Benihana. This is a yearly tradition for us on our anniversary. In 2005 we had our first kiss at Disneyland and after had dinner at Benihana. And, each year we get our photo taken there. You can see past years here, here, here, and here (maybe 1 day I will put them all up on 1 blog post).

Just some awesome views of the city.

After dinner we went to Union Sq. did some window shopping, walked around, watched the ice skaters (and had our photo taken there by a radio station who hooked us up with free Pirate tattoos. :) (http://www.wild949.com/cc-common/gallery/photos.html?album_id=306154#/16/18536287).

And then, being pooped, full and chilly we decided to head back and relax at the hotel. ;) What a wonderful day and what a wonderful way to spend our anniversary!!!

I will post the rest of our trip soon. We still have 3 days to go!

Flashback Wednesday???

2012-01-18T14:55:00.000-08:00

I just thought that before I posted about our San Francisco trip I would throw out this little goody.

Ahhh... the good old years of the perm. Lovin' mine and my mom's matching hairdo's.

This was the last time I was in good Ole' San Fran. Ere go, I remembered very little. And, Wes has never been there.

Funny Girl

2012-01-15T23:33:00.000-08:00

I'm sure most of you mom's out there (much like myself) want to write down all the funny things your kids do on a daily basis. And, like myself, there are too many to write or you forget, or we just don't take the time to document these funny occasions. But, I want to give it somewhat of an effort.... so here it is. My small effort.

Background: Peyton is HILARIOUS. Seriously, I would say once an hour she has me laughing out loud. She is NOT shy at all. She waves or says "hi" to almost anyone who looks at her. And, she will do just about anything we ask as long as she knows we will respond with a laugh. Sometimes, like the moment I am tp share with you, she surprises me with something 'gold'.

More background. One of her most favorite things to do is look at the pictures on my camera. She knows how to scroll through them, so many times she will come sit on my lap and we will look through the photos and videos together.

Yesterday, I was showing her pictures of our San Fran trip (blogS to come on that one later). Well, she got to this photo of Wes at Ghirardelli chocolates and stopped and looked for a while.

Finally, after some time, she took the camera brought it up to her face and licked the screen. It was so stinking funny!

The Quest: Part 6

2012-01-14T22:35:00.000-08:00

Challenger: The Back Abbey

Reigning Champ: Umami/~~The Habit~~

So, I must say that the best part of this "quest" if you will (well, besides the awesome food obviously) is that so many people have become very involved and anxious to introduce us to new, GREAT burger joints. And, what's better then a good burger? Well my friends, the answer is obviously a good burger with great friends.

When Michael invited us to join him at 'The Back Abbey' in the Village of Claremont (cutest little area ever, I would recommend this place just for the area if nothing else), we had no other option but to agree. (Note: if you are willing to take us to a good burger joint, I swear we will join you, you name the date and time, and we will do our best to comply).

The Back Abbey is a... what's the popular term nowadays for these types of places? Gastropub. That's it!!! It's a gastropub. You know a bar that is also a restaurant. A lot of business/college people enjoying the ~~scene~~ beers... we didn't participate in this scene. And, like I said before, the area surrounding is quite the cute little scene.

Consensus: FINALLY, a restaurant that I can compare to Umami! Insomuch that it was another great gourmet burger. It was similar in style, taste and looks. Wes and I ordered 2 different burgers (+ an awesome cheese platter appetizer to share with the table). Mine was the more classic burger, you know, onion, lettuce, tomato, etc. And, it was GOOD. Really, really good. (Personally, I liked mine better than Wes', though he always gets his undercooked in my opinion, which may have swayed my decision). Wes ordered a gourmet burger of aged Gouda, caramelized onion, bacon, and micro beans served on a brioche bun... I know right? Yum! So, needless to say our burgers were good.

But, after a LONG debate with the 4 of us, (we were joined on this "double date" by Michael and Ryan (both who have enjoyed Umami as well) we made a decision. We kept continuously going back and forth between which we liked better. I said The Back Abbey (I liked the options and the taste), but, in the end I was the minority. All 3 boys said that Umami's 'hatch burger' with the green chilies was the superior burger.

Also, the 1 thing I really did not like about The Back Abbey is that they did not have seating, it was on a first come first serve basis. There was a line and people pushing and attempting to find a seat for their group, which made for a few awkward moments and a lot of awkward hovering. I mean, we are not past hovering in order to get food but it was definitely not preferred.

So, WINNER and still champion (in the gourmet burger category) is Umami!!!!!!

P.S. I wish the burger places would start paying me to eat at their restaurants..... hmmmmmmm.

2011: Ra ra ra Reeeee Caaaaaap

2012-01-13T09:43:00.000-08:00

In case you didn't get that, this is the recap of 2011. The past year was challenging yet so much fun. Peyton's 1st year and all the growing she has been doing has made this year so much fun! However, Wes stopped working full time in June, so that has made for some hard time. I don't think I mentioned it, but he has been working part time at Nike Vision Training at EM in Rancho and likes it, but without working full time life has just not been the same. With that said, we did a lot of fun, interesting and challenging things.

-Celebrated 5 year anniversary
-We started "The Quest" for the best burger
-Welcomed sweet little Trent "Tug" into our family
-Went to a few Clipper games
-I turned 26
-Wes turned 28
-Trip to San Diego
-Ran and swam in a mini-triathlon (Wes did the bike ride... I did the run and swim)
-My Sentra (Mr. T) pooped out... my car since 2001
-Found out that Wes has scoliosis
-Hiked the "Hollywood" sign
-Ran my 1st Half Marathon
-Trip to Yosemite
-Peyton turned 1 year old!
-Indio family vacation
-William was very VERY sick with E-Coli
-Midnight showing of the last Harry Potter (sad day)
-Celebrated 4th of July with our family
-Went out on Lake Perris for the 1st time
-Best. Date. Ever. Death Cab for Cutie concert with Weston to the B.
-Went to the circus
-Peyton started walking
-Fun at a magic show at the Magic Castle
-Great Memorial day in Camarillo
-Grandma Gubler passed away in October
-Fun Mafia party at the Duncans
-Raine hockey game
-L.A. County Fair
-Spent Thanksgiving in St. George with the Gublers/Aleman family
-Welcomed Kati Price into the family when Patrick married her in the snow in November
-Had a really Merry Christmas; Mission Inn, Santa Claus twice, Santa Cow at Chick Fila, Disneyland, Hawaiian style Christmas

So, like I said, we had some great times, some sad times, and learned a lot on the way. I can tell already that 2o12 is going to be AWEsome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Garage Sale: Todd Style!

2012-01-11T10:16:00.000-08:00

About 2 weeks ago my extended family decided to do a garage sale. Let me show you how this goes down.

We set everything up early in the morning... about 7 am.

The kids then move everything, step on everything or cry for things.

We sell a few good things, for really cheap!

We start dressing Ryan up in things we are selling... like part of a tux. (Remember the SNL skit with Patrick Swayze and Chris Farley, Ryan is Barney in that skit).

Then, we send him down to the end of the street to dance and bring people into the garage sale.

From there, Carter and Ryan take artistic rights on the sign they were holding.

If you read carefully, you will notice their sign says something like" Pay us for our performance, all money to the Children's Hospital." So not true and they crossed out the real writing... little buggers. :)

There will ultimately be tears of some sort. I think multiple times for the most part. Peyton face-planted and cut her nose and lip fighting over a ball with William in the street while the rest of the big boys played football.

In the end we gave most of our stuff away, brought it to the D.I., or threw it in the trash. We made $9 whole bucks.

All in all, I would say this was a successful garage sale.

New Years Eve 2011-2012

2012-01-10T21:10:00.000-08:00

We celebrated New Years Eve with our friends the McCook's and the Duncan's. We did it pretty low-key. As you can see the boys were ready to call it a night early... this was before 9 PM. : /

Since we all have little kids, we decided to celebrate the Eastern New Years with them (9:00 pm). Nate was hilarious with his little "happy New Years" voice and smile. The kids played until we pulled them into the front room a few minutes before 9 to help them celebrate. We counted down with them, did some blowers, and poppers. Peyton was fine until I did a popper with her, then she cried because the noise was scary to her. I couldn't help but laugh. Then we put the kids down for the night, and the adults played some games.

We celebrated at midnight, and can you believe it? We forgot the sparkling cider!

After that, we just talked the rest of the night, and our group trickled down as people went to bed. We spent the night there, got up, had breakfast and headed home for church. I don't really get the whole New Years Eve thing, but I am glad I have wonderful friends and family to celebrate with.

Mele Kalikimaka: 2011

2012-01-03T21:17:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas All!!!!!!!!

Christmas Eve theme: Hawaiian Luau

The whole fam (-) Heidi who was taking the photo.

Our family went as a "shark attack"

The boys

The Hammy Fammy

The Todd Jr's

Nanna and Boppie with the grandkids (-) Willy who refused to sit still.

We ate Hawaiian haystacks for dinner.

Nanna prepared the pinatas.

We also did a white elephant gift exchange with the adults.... I think Sarah and Danny came out on top. They came home with a bump-it, and feather extensions. Notice Sarah's awesome hair.

My dad had to try out a feather too.

The kids played pin the tail on the donkey.

Then we opened gifts.

Our family also has a long standing tradition we always did growing up. My dad was a teacher for all of my childhood, so every year he would bring a long roll of paper home from school which we would color on Christmas Eve. Then before bed we would tape it up across the hall so that the tree and gifts would be blocked from everyone's view. Christmas morning we would all run out together and break through the paper and 'Christmas' would be exposed. So now, we don't have access to the long rolls of paper, so we color on the back of wrapping paper. Then we take our paper home to our individual homes and the kids break through on Christmas at their own homes. I loved this tradition because it made Santa so real to me... how could my parents be Santa if they were on the other side of the paper like us?

Notice Heidi and Ned's paper.... Ned did a Lord of the Ring theme. "You shall not pass!"

All the kids coloring on the paper.

We also attempted a nativity this year... but it was more comical then reverent. While we did make it through the whole story, I sadly have to admit there were kids running in and out, most of the characters left mid story. And who knew Winnie the Pooh was one of the animals present at the birth? Ella and Claire were probably our best actors, although Claire went from being a good strong angel, to a pretty lazy one, as shown in the pictures.

Christmas Morning:

We went to church with my parents. Then came home and opened our stockings and gifts from Santa. Then Peyton napped and afterward we went to the Aleman Sr. house.

We played some games with the Alemans... like this fun Disney game where you have to ask questions to figure out who you are.

Then later that night (everybody finally got there at around 6) talk about a long wait, we opened gifts and ate.

Peyton also bombed on Sandie's caramel corn.... yummy. Yes, that is seriously the whole bucket she is eating out of.

We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas season, and a great New Year!!!

The Mission Inn

2011-12-27T21:40:00.000-08:00

One of our very favorite things to do at Christmas time here in the I.E. (okay, like the only fun thing to do around here) is visit the Mission Inn in Riverside. It is decorated so festive, there are tons of good places to eat at, and it just feels so nice and Christmassy.

This year Wes' mom and dad joined our family for the night. We walked around and looked at the lights. Then we got some of Casey's Cupcakes. They were the winner on the popular show, "Cupcake Wars." I think they were pretty comparable to Sprinkles.

Overall, we had a great night and will definitely keep going back every year.

The Christmas Spirit

2011-12-27T21:23:00.000-08:00

What better way to prepare for the holidays then by attending Christmas parties... ugly sweaters and all? I failed to get photos from the first of our parties (the Bock's) but it was super fun and we always have a great time there.

I was good the 2nd time around and did get some at the Hull's party. They threw a great 'Minute to Win it Party'. There were 4 teams, and some great games. Best of all, my team won. However, I MUST admit something quite embarrassing....... I was by far the worst on my entire team. Seriously, I sucked! hahahahaha.... but I embraced the whole competitive spirit of Christmas and cheered my team on.

They also had an ugly sweater competition, with 4 different categories. Wes and I entered the ugly home-made Christmas sweater category. Yes, we lost... but we have some great ideas for next year.

First though..... check out Wes mad-dogging the winner of our category. Seriously, this face of his is classic.

The other great category was the ugly non-Christmas sweater........

The winner definitely had to be Ryan McCook.

A lot of people came... this is not even everyone there.

Some friends (I don't know where the Hull's were here)...

Left to Right: Wes, me, Jill, Paul, Heidi, Ned, Ryan and Taryn

Santa Cow

2011-12-21T15:46:00.000-08:00

So, Peyton may not like Santa Claus but she is alright with Santa Cow. We went to Chick-Fila last Saturday with the Brobergs and family to enjoy a Chick-Fila party. She usually hates the cow there, but throw on a Santa suit and she is down (the 2 balloons she was given may have helped a little too). She high-fived and "pounded" his little hoofs. We even got a tear free (yet semi-awkward) photo with him.

Don't know about you, but we love Chick-Fil-A!

Santa Claus: Take 2

2011-12-16T11:25:00.000-08:00

So... after the 1st Santa Claus debacle (okay, let's be honest I LOVE that photo) we decided to take another go at it and took Peyton to Bass Pro Shop on Monday and have another photo taken with Santa.

We had to wait an hour and a half to get our photo taken so we made the best of it, and had a lot of fun.

We rode the FREE carousel a couple of times (maybe 2-3). Peyton really liked it, although you can't tell from her facial expressions.

Spent some time in the North Pole.

Colored at the kid's craft area. That lasted all of 1 minute. Luckily they had a bunch of free games, shooting things, car racing, etc. So, Wes and I had fun too.

We walked around and looked at the HUGE fish (Peyton LOVES fish for some reason), and we also walked and shopped around.

We also had a worker take a family photo of us.

And all through the night Peyton waited very VERY patiently. :)

And, FINALLY, it was our turn to see Santa.

Why would I expect anything more? hahahahahahaha
Sweet lil' Pey!

P.S. I was far too lazy to scan the photo, so this is a photo of the photo.

It's Official

2011-12-15T00:13:00.000-08:00

So.... we in the Aleman household have what we consider some very exciting news. Maybe some of you have heard (it's been circulating) but I think it's time to make it "blog" official.

The Clippers got CP3....... also know as Chris Paul!!!!

I know exciting right? For the last week or so, my husband has been on the phone non-stop (quite truly) discussing trade deals, things that have happened, the owners, the league, new deals, etc. etc. etc. And, if he hasn't been on the phone discussing it, like he is part of Clipper management and they care what he thinks, then he has been on ESPN watching for updates and listening to what Chris Brussard or Skip Bayless have to say about it all. But, it is official, our team now has him, and are now in the running. :) Yeah baby!!! Too bad stupid Lakers! (Again, my Laker viewpoints are not shared by all Aleman household members...... yet) :)

Christmas at the Happiest Place on Earth

2011-12-12T22:23:00.000-08:00

We spent a night last week at Disneyland. We got there just in time to watch the Christmas parade. We then headed over and just lucked out to get a prime spot for the lighting of the castle and the snow. We then went on a few rides like Star Tours, the tea cups, Pirates, Big Thunder Railroad, and Buzz Lightyear a few times. We had a wonderful time there. Unfortunately, my pass is now expired and we don't know when we will renew, so it was a nice way to end the year.

On Buzz.... (That's Peyton's little head next to me, she was happy just holding a gun)

On the car ride there, I asked Peyton to say cheese and do a happy face, so this is the sequence of events that took place after. I love her funny chipmunk face smile. It's so crazy but so darn cute.

We got stuck right in front of the castle unknowingly as they were lighting it up. We are sooooo cool.

(Btw, Peyton's face may look disgusted here because right before this photo the kid next to us upchucked).

We ended the night at Red Robin, where Wes ate himself silly. Literally. It was a bet.

Here Comes Santa Claus

2011-12-10T21:57:00.000-08:00

We've been busy preparing for Christmas here at the Aleman household. It's definitely my favorite time of the year.

We put up our Christmas tree (too bad we don't have a good enough camera to take good photos of our nice night). She has 3 ornaments she really loves and likes to play with. She also calls all the round ornaments "ball."

We also spent a night at my parents where Peyton played with their new dog Oscar and LOVED their light up Santa.

Too bad she didn't feel the same way about meeting the "real" Santa Claus. This was at our ward Christmas party tonight. She was having so much fun, then she sat on Santa's lap and was terrified, then instantly was fine again once she was off.

About 1 minute after the "Santa incident".

Greatest Family Picture Ever

2011-12-08T22:29:00.001-08:00

I think... YES!!!

She was crying because I tried taking off the hat for the picture... go figure. She was loving just running around (and into things) making everyone laugh.

Just me and my girl

2011-12-07T00:20:00.000-08:00

My sister snapped this photo on her phone the other day while we had a girl's night out, thanks Hay. Boy do I love this little funny girl of mine! She is just the greatest!!!!!!!!!

Oh Dixie

2011-12-07T00:08:00.000-08:00

In October when we were in St. George for Grandma's funeral we took a hike with some of Wes' siblings and his cousins up to the Dixie sign. It was awesome!!! Not scary at all... but I would not recommend taking little children up there because there were no railings at all (I am sooooooooooo paranoid with heights). We had a lot of fun doing some make-shift rock climbing, posing, and just enjoyed walking around. I would highly recommend going up there.

Guess What Was Under Our Bed?

2011-12-03T21:13:00.000-08:00

About 2 weeks ago Wes and I were in our room getting ready for church. Peyton had been showered and dressed and was just wandering around the room picking things up and moving things; you know the usual. I was over by the closet getting my shoes on when Peyton bent over and got something under the bed right next to me. She then walked up to me and held up.... wait for it............... a dead bird. Like a sparrow- bird. Like the kind the flies through the sky- bird. You know a dead bird. How the devil did it get into our room? How the heck did we not know it got inside? How on earth did it end up under our bed? And, how disgusting is that? I quickly (and not very gracefully slapped it out of her hands--- a direct hit) and may have muttered something not to be repeated. But, we did take a picture before Wes returned it from whence it came. I think he threw it over the fence into our neighbors yard. And, yes, I did wash her hands well. And, I'm not going to lie, I am kinda glad it happened because it was Hi-larious.

The end.

So... Remember July???

2011-12-02T09:39:00.000-08:00

Well... way back then (only 4 months ago to the day in fact) our family (The Aleman side) took a family trip to Indio. Yes, by Palm Springs. We spent almost the entire time we were there in the pool, in the lazy river or playing games. So, 6 days of playing in the water or playing games around the table with a movie or 2 thrown in there.

To be fair, the boys spent a day golfing, a lot of the family went to a nearby water park, and we did spend a day in Palm Springs. We rode the aerial gondola up to the top of the mountain and did a hike. It was supposed to be a small hike since we had the 3 kids (Tyler, Brinley and Delanie) and Shaun, Re and myself were all in sandals. However, it ended up being about a 4 mile hike and my feet hurt by the end and for a few weeks after.

We did have some great deer sightings and the end left us at a beautiful meadow, so it was pretty good all around. However, at the end of the day while we were trying to get back to Indio the gondola broke and we had to wait for it to be fixed. Talk about anxiety for a girl who despises heights. And, Patrick and Kati were stuck in it for a few minutes when the door malfunctioned after the rest of us made it out safe and sound.

The reason it took me so long to post is because my camera ran out of batteries and I just got some photos back from Patrick.

Thanksgiving in St. George 2011

2011-11-30T00:06:00.000-08:00

Well, another fantabulous holiday spent in St. George with the Aleman/Gubler families. Am I not the luckiest girl to have such cool families surrounding me? I mean, if I am not with my own family the next best just HAS to be the Aleman family which I get to be a part of. A week of laughing, lots of games, hot men (Weston B.) playing basketball, and too much food. I mean when you eat so much junk you throw up at night too much food... and yes, I am speaking from experience. :0

In all honesty we have so much to be grateful for. This year was hard on the family. As I mentioned before, Grandma Gubler just passed away a month. She usually organized everything and put everything together, and knew what was supposed to happen and when, and without her, we all felt like something big was missing. And, it was. Her. We sure did miss her. With that weighing heavy on our hearts we are blessed to know we will see her again, and she is with our Father in Heaven. I know I can speak for Wes and other family members when I say how grateful we are for eternal families and the power of temple sealings which allow families to be together forever. I am grateful to be a "Mormon" and have the gospel of Jesus Christ in my home. I am grateful for not only my extended family but my small and wonderful little family... myself, my husband Wes, and my sweet baby Peyton. I am grateful for our health and our strong capable bodies which allow us to live comfortably and have so much fun! I am grateful for our warm home and soft beds. I am grateful for at least 1 working car. I am grateful that my husband has a job and does his best to provide for us, and most importantly allows and desires me to stay home and raise our child to be a good, smart and wonderful little person. I love my job and am grateful to do it!!! There is so much to be grateful for and I love this time of year when I am extra careful to do so... it is too easy to get lost in the hubbub of life and overlook all the wonderful blessings I have.

Moving on.... Thanksgiving week/weekend! As I said before, we were able to go up to St. George Utah with some of Wes' family for the holiday weekend. And, as always up there we had a grand ole' time. Here is our week in photos. We did a heck of a lot of game playing which I failed to photograph, and even more eating which, obviously, I was too busy partaking of to photograph. But, I think you will get this idea of the amount of fun we had by what you see. And, did I mention how really, REALLY, grateful I am to have kind, good, patient in laws who willingly watch my child so I can go off with the hubby and folks to have adult-like fun? Cause I am really, REALLY grateful. ;) (Thanks Sandie and Fred)!

Thursday/Thanksgiving: Annual Aleman vs. Gubler Pre-Thanksgiving Basketball game (Aleman 2, Gublers 1) My boo even dunked that mug. And boy... he is one sexy bearded beast!!!

Btw: This picture cracks me up... here are all the men warming up and stretching. Then, there is Matt in the background. Love this family!

And, I had to throw this one in because Fred looks like a crazy old man not knowing how to take a photo (Be it known however, he has NOT lost his jump shot). And, Robb busted out Uncle Rico.

Here is the little girl cheering section... poor Tyler and Tug are sadly outnumbered.

Also, you would think with all of these cute, happy, willing helpers my life would have been cake. BUT, Peyton has decided in the last month she will go with no one else or be happy unless Wes or I are holding her. If we aren't around she will pick another soul, but the moment she sees or hears us, it is all over and she cries until we hold her again. Even if I am 2 steps away that is too far for her liking, so I was unable to take advantage of all these sweet girls. Grrrrrrrr.

Thanksgiving dinner was wonderful. We had a smaller group than usual. Too bad, I missed seeing all of Wes' cousins.

Left to right: Top: Ashleigh, Michael, Kristy, Ross, Rhonda, Grandpa Gubler, Sandie, Fred, Lynn, Ron, Peyton, Me, Wes and Kent. Middle: Andy, Jacob, Robb, Patrick, Kati, and Matt. Bottom: Hannah, Kaylah, Kristana, Trent (Tug), Kenna, Carly, Brinley, Jaime, Tyler, Kari, and Kody (Delanie was sleeping inside).

We were also able to go out and have fun taking lots of fall photos.
My family:

The "booted" gals:

Lots of "Fall Frolicking":

Wes and the cute cousins, Peyton and Tug

Here is Peyt telling Tug to "come here" with her hands. She loved looking at him and saying over and over, "hi".

One other thing I LOVE about being in St. George is the location and Fred and Sandie's home. They are located about 15 houses away from Grandpa Gubler. The kids (and myself) love the walk back and forth between the homes. Here is a cute thing I found on my way to Grandpa's.

It was faster than her walking and she LOVED it.

Friday:

Sandie and Fred were kind enough to take Peyton so I could go along with Wes, the boys and Kati for some paint balling. Grammy and Papa took Peyton to a little bounce place nearby and she LOVED it! It's a shame I don't have the videos that Uncle Andy took of her while she laughed and laughed while being bounced. A part of me is sad I missed it, but at the same time I had so much fun it pays off. Oh, and Sandie said she tried laying Peyton down for a nap in her closet (where Peyt slept) and she said she was in there for about 30-45 minutes really quiet. Well, Sandie had to go in a get something and assumed it would be safe, so she said she opened the door very quietly and there was Peyton sitting up playing with her blankets and she looked up at Sandie with the biggest, happiest smile... so needless to say she was taken out and hugged immediately. :)

We also had a BLAST paint balling and still have the bruises to prove it. Matt had a great story about his show down, we laughed about the experts we played against, and Kati and I loved waving to Patrick up in our tower during one of the matches. It was such a fun experiences!

The paint balling group: L-R: Tyler, Matt, me, Wes, Ross, Jacob, Michael (those Gublers must not have know we were trying to look tough), Kati, Patrick, and Robb.

Saturday

Wes and I relaxed while Peyton napped. She had been sick most of the week and needed a good rest day. Later that evening Wes went with the rest of the family to shoot. I stayed behind because the baby, and am so bummed I did. It was pretty boring being all alone in the house. BUT, the next day (Sunday) we went out again with a smaller group and Fred stayed behind so I could go out and shoot a little.... and this was probably the most fun thing we did. I am so grateful I was able to go.

We had a .9mm Smith and Wesson handgun. Oddly enough this was the hardest weapon for me to shoot. I was so inaccurate and had a hard time controlling the recoil. The little guy had a lot of "umph" to it.

We then moved on to a little .22 rifle. This was so fun and easy to shoot and pretty un-intimidating (that's a word right? If not, it is now.). I think I know what I want for Christmas. :)

Next we busted out the clay pigeons and shot gun. I love doing this and am happy to report I was able to hit a target or 2. Wes is a sharp shooter with this gun and didn't miss a target. He was awesome with this, I say bring it on Zombies. :) The same can't be said for his throwing abilities however. ;)

Now comes the fun stuff. Andy (Ashleigh's hubby) is the reason for the season. He brought all these bad boys up and has a fun little arsenal.

Our next gun was a M-16. Gawesome (great and awesome)! This was probably my favorite gun to shoot. But, just maybe and you will see why next.

Andy also brought a M-1 Garand. Holy Cow!!!!!!! This was so, so, so fun to shoot. You could feel it shake you chest. Man was it fun! It had a special scope so we were shooting things about 250 yards away with no problem. These last 2 guns were so cool. Did I mention that we liked shooting these?

The really wonderful thing about St. George is that it is perfect for people who like the outdoors. We found a perfect place 5 miles from where we were. It was beautiful, be it a little chilly, and we all had a blast.

Kari and Sandie showing off our beautiful little area.

Kenna and her massacred target.

If you look around you will see a scattering of targets and clay pigeons on the hillside.

Here is Andy throwing the clay pigeons, Kody shooting the shot gun, Wes with the M-16 and Sandie with one of the .22 rifles. So fun!

Bonnie and Clyde? Nope, April and Wes!

Sunday Night: We ended our night at Cafe Rio and at the St. George temple to walk around and enjoy the Christmas decorations. It is so beautiful and peaceful there.

We came home Monday, and I must admit sleeping in my bed is most enjoyable. :)

The Quest: Part 5

2011-11-21T16:18:00.000-08:00

Challenger: Marv's

Reigning Champ: The Habit/Umami

As serious burger connoisseurs we don't limit ourselves to local burger joints. Therefore, while in Utah we had to try a good old fashion burger joint that we have heard has the best burgers around. This place is known as Marv's (yes, Marv like the wet bandit on Home Alone). Marv's has that old fashioned feel about it. Similar to a 1950s soda shop or something. Although be it known, it is located in a strange spot.

So, we, along with practically all members of the Aleman clan, headed out for a light meal of burgers, fries, onion rings and milk shakes the last time we were all in town.

Consensus: The burgers were very, very good. Similar to 5 Guys in my opinion. I would go back and I would partake. However, I would not at this point claim it to be the best burger. However... they have the BEST sides to go along with their burgers that I've had yet.

Growing up my family would frequent a place called, "The Burger Bar" in Roy Utah. St. George used to have one of these as well, but in the last few years it shut down (much to my dismay). The Burger Bar is very similar to Marv's, insomuch, that I would go there for their shakes, and fries (Marv's also has the best onion rings ever). The burgers are almost a side to those in my opinion.

So, while they don't make the best burgers, I am going to make a plea that all go and try their shakes and onion rings for a pleasant culinary experience. And, if we are around, we would love to accompany you!!! In fact, I think we may just go this week. :)

Ashleigh and Andy Moore (and Delanie Huefner) showing off our food. The middle side are onion rings, only they cut them into bite sized pieces and cook them to perfection so that you don't loose the onion after the first bite....... genius!

The rest of the clan inside of Marv's. It is definitely a family friendly restaurant.

Baby Einstein.... eat your heart out!

2011-11-17T14:00:00.000-08:00

My baby is a genius. Okay... not really but look how cute and smart she is. She says a lot more, but without preparation and knowing I had rare camera time (she usually won't perform once I get the camera), I had to take advantage of the small window of opportunity I was given. (You'll also notice when I do a video she is usually half naked in her high chair... it's the only time anymore she sits still for me).

Just Sayin'........

2011-11-16T12:28:00.000-08:00

At least once a month he gets, "So, you must get this all the time but you look like that one actor......what's his name?" Bradley Cooper. I am one lucky lady. ;)

Kati and Patrick 11-4-2011

2011-11-11T23:04:00.000-08:00

My brother in law Patrick married Kati Price last Friday. It's funny because I grew up with Kati as she was best friends with my sister since about 6th grade. Her mom was my 5th grade teacher and I used to "babysit" her brother (more like hang out with him and make his mom feel comfortable that he wasn't alone). So, who would've thought 15+ years later she would be my sister in law?

Anyways, let me start with the night before. AKA: the bachelor party, if you will. It took place at Dave and Buster's in Ontario. And, from the sound of it, the boys had quite the night and more fun than I think I have ever seen by the way they were acting upon coming back. Pumped would be an understatement. Let me paint you a picture... imagine. 6 men, the youngest being 28 and the oldest being 65 running around like a bunch of school boys hooping and hollering at the top of their lungs from all over the room. Let me explain. Patrick (hearing how much Wes and Shaun LOVE their X-Box) has been wanting one for a long time. So, Shaun has spent months, lots of money and time earning enough points at Dave and Buster's to win him an X-Box. Their plan was to bring him their give him all the tickets and tell him to pick something (knowing it would be the X-Box). However, upon arriving there they noticed the cheap X-Box was no longer being offered and their was only 1 more and it was 16,000 more points than they had. So, they told Patrick the dilemma, his response.... "I'm up for a challenge." So, they had 1 1/2 hrs for the 6 of them to win 16,000 points/tickets. So, they only paid ticket games. With 15 minutes left before the place closed they still needed 6,000!!!!! So, they had a runner who would bring the last card with money on it to a person swipe it for them to play then run to the next so they could all play at the same time. They said it was intense. They even had a small following of teenage boys who couldn't believe how many tickets they were winning. At the end of the night, this group of men did it! They got all the needed tickets and thanks to Shaun really, Patrick was able to get himself an X-Box, plus they all had a blast!!!!!!

The boys on Frogger, where they won some big points.

Patrick and his loot... notice the full cups of tickets under the ones draped around him?

Patrick and the prized X-Box. Along with Wes, Fred, Robb, Matt and Shaun.

After hearing how much fun they had, I demanded Wes take me on a date there too.

The wedding took place the next day on Friday the 4th at Riley's Farm. And......... it snowed! Who would've thunk? Kati was set on it being an outside wedding; so all the guests braved the cold, and were hauled (literally) up the hill, under a tent into the cold to witness the ceremony. I would love to say that I paid lots of attention to what was being said, but in truth I was so focused on keeping myself and Peyton from frostbite that that became my major concern. I literally lost feeling in my feet. Luckily Peyton didn't seem to notice as long as she had a sucker. :) Too bad she became so sticky I was forced to wipe her down with cold wipeys which only increased her hand chills. And, she refused to keep the blanket over her... ah well.

Here we are braving the cold. (me, Peyton, Kaylah, Rhi (Shaun's sweet girlfriend Rhiannon) and Kristana.

Patrick and Fred

The happy couple, Patrick and Kati.

Funny note... Wes and Heidi were both in the wedding so they walked down together, huddled together for warmth since the bridesmaids were told NOT to wear a jacket until AFTER they got up to the front. Did I mention it was snowing or pouring rain the entire time?

Well, once we got back inside the barn, and got our hot chocolate and sat under the heaters I was able to notice how pretty everything looked. It was a beautiful reception with ridiculous amounts of fun just as the invitation promised. They had an awesome Irish band which really made the night. Peyton loved dancing and loved all the attention she got doing it. So in spite of the cold we really enjoyed ourselves.

Before the wedding... waiting for Daddy to get gas, we took some photos.

My parents were also there to enjoy the festivities.

Patrick gave the sweetest, best toast/speech... Kati is a lucky lady.

We all toasted the happy couple.

However, give a baby a little bubbly and this is what your family picture looks like. Kidding guys, it was only cider ;)

Daddy and daughter dancing.

Peyton was not happy with me when I stopped her from causing a ruckus, or getting tripped all over by the dancing people./

Having fun in the photo booth. Wes was M.I.A. a lot of the night, helping out and taking photos. Oh, and doing what he does best, eating. :)

Congratulations Patrick and Kati.

Our October

2011-11-09T21:10:00.000-08:00

We had a fun, busy, sad, good, bad you name it October.

After 2 months in the hospital Willy boy came home, and we finally celebrated his kidney recovery with a "pee party". We had a Potluck, with Pizza, Pretzels, Punch, Pistachios, Peanuts, and a number of other fun "P" foods at the Park.

We attended Grandma Gubler's funeral in St. George.

My parent's got this awesome bench for their front room. It used to be a bench in the Chicago Train Station... it's so cool.

Ate at the Avocado House.

Dressed up in Halloween costumes... even ones we didn't wear.

Had fun at a number of Halloween parties. Including Landon Biggs' Halloween/30th b-day bash. Which was loads of fun and so well put together. Plus, we had some friends that came with awesome costumes.

The Tolman's as Daniel and the lions from the den.

Michael came as Vanilla Ice.

Peyton and her future b-friend... Nixon. They are 1 month and 1 day apart in age. He's an absolute doll.

Went to the L.A. County fair... Love to do this every year!

Carved pumpkins and went Trick-or-Treating. Plus we went to my parent's ward's trunk-or-treat.

Plus, Peyton seriously has grown up so much in the last few months. She can now do pig tails... which is just my most favorite thing. She loves to dance, run, spin in circles, jump (on the ground and off things), and especially read books... all. day. long.

She now says a number of different words, including: mama, dada, dog, moon, see ya (Backyardigans), nite nite, ball, brocoli (she picked that one up on her own from a book and probably says that best of all, though only when she wants), bath, yeah, no, ouch, hi, and bye (she says bye really well and clearly too), eyes, nose, do-jo, a LOT of animal noises and actions. She signs more, milk, water, please, book, and all done. She knows where her hair, eyes, nose, mouth, belly, hands and feet are.

She LOVES to wear hats and wigs. But, thinks it is sooooo funny to take out the bows I put on her.

She loves to play peek a boo.

Sometimes she will give the best hugs and kisses, but she is selective about when she is willing.

All of the sudden she is a mama's girl, and only wants me to hold her.... exasperated sigh. But, I also love it at the same time.

She LOVES to perform and have people watch her and laugh at her. Which, I love.

Just like when she was a baby, nothing gets her more excited than when she hears the theme for the backyardigans begin. Even if she doesn't watch the show well she loves the music. And at the end when the characters say good-bye it's like she can't help but run in and wave at the screen and say bye to them back. She enjoys watching Sesame Street and Yo Gabba Gabba more.

We stopped giving her a pacifier at the beginning of the month, but she hasn't seemed to notice or mind. Just one day I forgot to give it to her, and she fell right asleep. So we stopped giving it to her at night and only at naps. Then after a week, we stopped naps too. No problems there which was a relief. So now she only sleeps with her bear and elephant blankey.

We also stopped giving her a bottle. That was a little harder because in the beginning she refused to drink milk out of a sippy. But, now we really aren't having any problems with that either.

Mostly she is VERY busy. She is still such a good girl, but she is active and sweet. Her favorite thing to do EVERYDAY is take a walk down the street and back collecting rocks on the way.

We had a good October.

Holiday Boutique

2011-11-08T11:16:00.000-08:00

I will also be there selling tutu's. I made Peyton's for Halloween and fell in love. I can do any color (multi $20, single $15), or size. Let me know if you are interested. Hope to see you tomorrow at the boutique.

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T21:57:00.000-07:00

So.... are you ready for our awesome costumes this year???? Well, here it is.

So, we had grandiose plans for our costumes, but after a lot of time (the day before that is) and even more frustration making our costumes we ended up just giving in this year and going the cop-out route. Cats and nerds..... so easy and no purchases required. Our good idea just weren't going to work in time for Halloween. So, maybe we will use them next year and hopefully we can figure out how to solve the problems. Mostly though, we just ran out of time. Peyton's costume would have gone with our theme, but even so, she made the cutest little rubber ducky anyway.

Our cop out costumes..... everyone has cat ears, which makes for an easy costume? Hayley and I both showed up like this... hilarious, right?

Wes threw on some clothes he had and used 3-D glasses without the lenses. I may be partial but I thought he looked hot. Minus the hair and the jeans. But seriously, he looked good to me. And, disregard the goonie smile.

We met at Danny and Sarah's house along with the rest of the family, ate some chili and did some trick-or-treating. They have a wonderful neighborhood. It was so crowded we actually had to wait in lines to get up to the house porches. Some neighbors even put on haunted houses. It really was so much fun to watch the little kids so excitedly run up to the houses, with Peyton and Asher slowly following.... Will got a sucker at the first house so he was content eating that in the stroller the rest of the night.

See how crowded it was? This picture doesn't even do it justice.

Peyton refused to let anyone hold her bucket but she trucked along happily. She was a little slow so we skipped some houses, but she truly enjoyed the whole evening.

Claire and Ella loved their nook and stayed there almost all night long. Little divas.

Hayley, Adam and Ryan. Ryan's costume was gawesome!

Asher... a little monkey.

The Todd's were the characters from The Little Mermaid. Danny was Eric, Claire was Ariel, Carter was Triton, Willy was Flounder and Sarah was Ursula.

All the kids at the door trick-or-treating.

Like I said, Asher and Peyton kinda fell behind, but were so cute together. These next few shots are by far my favorite. It shows how cute my baby is and how much she loved the whole evening.

Especially these next 3.

At the haunted house... see how scary it was.

Doesn't my mom look terrified? :/

Halloween night 2011 was awesome!!!

Pumpkin Carvin'

2011-10-31T22:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, the Sunday before Halloween, we went to my parents's house to carve pumpkins. We had a lot of fun. However, Peyton wasn't at all interested in helping. For some reason I thought she would actually enjoy scooping the goo, boy was I wrong. She wouldn't even touch it, seriously. Peyton and Asher were happy being half naked playing in some spilled water out back. Oh well, as long as they are happy right? Plus, they were super funny together.

The carving group... I swear I helped, but someone had to have clean hands to get some photos. :)

Dad's B-day

2011-10-31T22:04:00.000-07:00

We spent dad's 56th b-day at Lucille's BBQ.......... with most of the family, minus Wes and Adam who had to work. The kids all love being together, especially when they can run wild by a fountain. Good times!

Joann Weech Gubler: Sept. 23, 1931- Oct. 16, 2011

2011-10-26T22:37:00.000-07:00

Wes' Grandma Gubler passed away about a week ago. She was diagnosed with breast cancer a few years ago. She won that battle. However, about 1 year ago she started to have terrible pain, and after exploratory surgery it was discovered she had cancer in her gut area that had spread. After chemo and a lot of pain, she decided it was time to just stop and live what life she could. She was put into hospice and with a very loving husband spent the remainder of her days there surrounded by friends and family.

I have never seen a more devoted husband than Grandpa Gubler was to that woman during these last few years. I hope Wes and I have their kind of love after 63 years of marriage. Our hearts go out to him.

The funeral was a true celebration of Grandma's life. Her love for her family, for fun, games, children, grandchildren and the gospel. We remembered all the good times we had with her, and heard a number of fun new stories. All 4 of her children were able to be by her side the last week she was alive. What a blessing.

She was a GREAT Grandma. We loved her so and will truly miss her.

The funeral was held in St. George this past weekend and we were lucky enough to be able to attend along with the rest of the family.

Grandpa and Grandma Gubler

Grandpa and his children. L-R: Kent (who just 2 weeks ago was in a terrible bicycle accident where he broke his collarbone, 6 ribs in different places, and shoulder blade, thus his left arm stuck to his side), Lynn, Sandie, and Ross.

The pall bearers, (all of Wes' cousins). L-R: Patrick, Konnar, Kody, Jacob, Michael, Wes, Shaun, Chad, Blake and Robb

Sandie and her dad (Grandpa Gubler)

The Aleman Family

L-R: Shaun and Re, Ashleigh and Andy, Matt and Jaime w/ their kids Trent (Tug), Delanie, Tyler and Brinley, Robb, Fred and Sandie, Patrick and Kati, and Wes, me and Peyton

Sandie and her kids

The Mafia

2011-10-24T21:58:00.000-07:00

Wes and I were invited to a really fun night of Mafia. It's a game in case you aren't familiar. We had a lot of fun, a lot of food, and a lot of laughs. Everyone came dressed to kill... literally.

Our hosts, Jill and Paul.

Some of the guests, Holly and Spencer.

Richard and Kelly.

A few of the Russian Mafia showed up, Ryan and Taryn.

And Wes brought a guest too... no, not his mustache.

His last kill. In a body bag.

We probably made the neighbors a little worried as he taped me up in the drive way....... good times.

The whole group... apparently Holly and Jill didn't get the memo. We were mafia by all means.

The Quest: Part 4

2011-10-20T13:39:00.000-07:00

Challenger: Portillo's Hot Dogs

Reigning Champ: The Habit/Umami

Naming a champ is getting harder and harder as Wes and I really can't come to a consensus on which burger we like best. I name The Habit here because if you gave me my choice of all the places we've had thus far and said choose where we go, I would choose The Habit. Wes goes back and forth with most of the places but still stands firm on Umami being his #1 without doubt. So since he has Umami, I choose The Habit.

Anyway, while out and about last week running errands we became starved. It just so happened that we were driving by a place neither of us has tried before and we've been wanting to for years. And, it just so happened that they had a banner on the front of their restaurant claiming they had "the Best Burgers Around." We'll just see about that.

Since their name suggests they are best known for their hot dogs we decided to split a dog and a burger.

Our thoughts: A+ for the decor inside. It had a retro theme and was darling! The music, the lighting, the lay out, the chairs, the art, everything was super fun and super cute. I loved everything about it, and would return solely on that if nothing else. I definitely think they are smart to call themselves Portillo's Hot Dogs because not being a huge hot dog fan I was a fan of the dog I ate there. I got their original dog with no substitutions or changes. It was delicious and reasonably priced. Their hamburger was.... good. Not great, definitely not even close to being the best burger around but it was solid. The bun was yummy and soft, but there just wasn't enough flava' for our liking.

Consensus: I would return. However, when I suggest to someone where to find the best burger it will not be from Portillos.

Forgive the poor photo quality here, but as I mentioned, our trip to Portillos was spur of the moment. And, because of such, I failed to bring my camera and we fell back to Wes' blackberry for photo evidence.

Our food: Can't eat a good burger without a nice large soda and fries to go along with it.

And notice that my child is being hung upside down. She was not happy with our choice to not let her wander the parking lot. Thus, the only way to bring a smile to her face was this pose. :)

Cal Poly Pomona Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-17T20:47:00.000-07:00

On Saturday (a super fun busy day) we headed over to the Cal Poly Pumpkin Patch with Peyton and Claire to enjoy a day of fun in the sun. I think they purposely plan the pumpkin patch weekend to be the hottest day of October.

So, we got there, and picked out our ideal pumpkins to bring home, took a few photos and walked around a bit. Wes and I tried to get Claire in the corn maze or get her face painted, but she was so tired and hot she asked to go home, which was pretty funny. Then, we tried to get her a Slurpee but she instead asked for water, so we got that instead. So, try as we might, we could not get this little girl to have little girl fun. :)

But we really did have a good time there.

Let It Raine!!!

2011-10-11T21:10:00.000-07:00

Wes and I went to our first hockey game this week. My sister gave us 2 tickets to the Ontario Raine game for Saturday. We had a blast pretending like we knew what was going on. Unfortunately, we lost. But, the 3 of us really did have a lot of fun.

So Happy Together

2011-10-08T00:32:00.000-07:00

I love my family. Everyday I feel so blessed to have Wes as my husband and Peyton as my daughter. Sure, we have hard times. We've had personal and individual struggles we've had to work through. But, we have been successful because we share the same goals, and desire to have an eternal future together. One of the best advice we were given as a couple before we were married was by our wonderful (really, really wonderful) Stake President, Scott Knecht. He told us that if we always put the others feelings first and our #1 goal was to make the other one happy, we would in turn both always be 100% happy. Wes, I think is a little better at it than I am, but I truly do try to do my best.

With that said, I got the most wonderful text message the other day from a past young woman of mine. She made my day, and gave me a wonderful blessing through her words. I hope this doesn't embarrass her, but it was so wonderful, I need to have it written down, and this is my only journal.

This text came out of the blue:

"Hey just wanted to tell you that I love you, and that you are such an amazing example to me and that I hope to one day have a marriage like you and Wes. You guys are my goal."

Have I mentioned before that we have awesome youth in our ward and that I have had the privileged to get to know the young women very well through my callings. In fact, by serving in the Young Women Program (and going to camp with them for a week), being the youth Sunday School teacher (currently), seminary teacher, Youth Conference parent, and having the youth over to just hang out, I've gotten to know them very well and they have taught me a great deal. They have given me hope for my own children to grow up as strong members of society who stand for what they know to be right and have fun doing it.

This young lady made my day. She made me evaluate my actions and how I want to be seen. I hope that I always live up to what she thinks of me. I love my husband, he is my best friend and confidant. I love my daughter, and I love my Heavenly Father. There is nothing I want more in this whole world than to be with them for forever.

L.A. County Fair

2011-10-01T23:08:00.000-07:00

Thursday Wes and I decided it was finally time to go to the fair. Plus, they had their deal that if you brought in a new or slightly used book you get in for free. Well, we have a few books we had to buy for college classes that have never been used.... whoops. :) So, we brought those.

We stopped and ate at Miguel Jr's. on our way out... to save money and we never love the real food, we like the junk you "snack on". We got to the fair at about 6 pm, and went with a grumpy baby. Peyton has decided she is now a 1 nap girl (regardless of how hard I try to convince her otherwise), so I knew we were in for a ride.

She was good most of the time, until we decided to let her out of her stroller and walk. Once she is out and free there is no containing her. But, with the crowds in the main area I wanted her either to be held or in the stroller. She wasn't having that. She bucked, and screamed and cried and threw a true tantrum. Wow!

I know, how can this little face throw a tantrum?

So, from that point on she was on edge. She would be fine, then something small would happen, like she would trip or bonk her head slightly climbing on something and the water works would start all over again.

So, after seeing some animals in cages and in the petting area, we decided to let her cry it out in the stroller. She threw another great tantrum, then calmed down enough that we were able to walk around and enjoy the lights. Why we ever let her out is beyond me. j/k..... kinda.

She honestly didn't really know what to do in the petting zoo with so many animals so near to her. She touched a few... at my encouragement. But, she mostly just walked around looking at them, going near to them then walking away quickly. She actually liked the chickens the most. But, once a goat near her jumped off the haystack next to her, she was officially done. She tried to escape and cried until I picked her up and we went out. Don't worry, we washed our hands and arms very well.

The 2 escapees.

She went from this...

To this (after the jumping goat)...

Looking for daddy to save her.

It is so funny to watch kids evolve. Now that she walks she is determined and their is no stopping what she wants once she sets her mind on it. It is actually cute to see her personality come out in full force. BUT, I surely wish she was napping 2 times still. :)

But, even with a temper tantrum 1 year old we seriously had a wonderful time. We got our pirate names.... April: Blind Tooth Tom. Wes: Stub Wreck Kid. Tried some new fair foods, like chocolate covered bacon. Pretty good, it had the same taste as nutty chocolate, except I am not a fan of dark chocolate. We had an amazing 4 berry smoothie... yummmmmmmmy!!!!!!!! And, we got a Crispy Creme Chicken Sandwich, which is actually not as gross as it sounds. Surprisingly, because it sounds gross, especially the fact that it is a jelly filled donut. I know, right?! And just enjoyed being out with the rest of the fair people and carnies.

So, until next year fair L.A. County Fair!

Angels Game: Friday Fireworks

2011-09-27T15:09:00.000-07:00

My mom purchased massive amounts of Angels tickets for the whole season, and so she invited the whole family to the game last Friday night. I was slightly worried how Peyton would be in a high confined space for such a long time, but with her dancing cousins, food, the rally monkey, lots of happy screaming, a little booing, and a great firework show at the end she did absolutely wonderfully. Sadly the Angels lost, but we had a great time anyway.

We even met Vernon Wells (an Angel player) after the game in the parking lot. He smiled really big and waved really nice at Peyton and said "hi baby". He is now my official favorite player on the team. :)

Henry Hamilton and The Treasure of Yosemite

2011-09-24T11:43:00.000-07:00

And at last....

Background:
While my family was in Yosemite this last July, the little boys met Cole. Cole was the coolest 11 year old... EVER! The boys spent every waking and available hour with Cole. They developed little man-crushes on him. Their faces would light up when they would hear Cole approach, or he tried to contact them on their walky-talkys. And, Cole was such a nice, polite, patient boy with Ryan (7) and Carter (6). During this time, Cole, a hopeful director, decided to shoot a movie. So, with the creative efforts of Ryan and Carter, the 3 of them made 'Henry Hamilton and the Treasure of Yosemite' together. He has been keeping us up to date on the release via email and the last week their movie debuted. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

Walking Tall

2011-09-21T10:20:00.000-07:00

Remember a month ago when I mentioned that Peyton started to get the whole "walking" thing... well since then she has taken it and run with it. Almost literally.

She is so dang cute walking. And, I must admit, I like the fact that she is actually walking now. It keeps her cleaner, it keeps less things out of her mouth, and she has more fun while we are out and about.

Needless to say, Peyt's walking has been a wonderful thing! And, she almost does it exclusively.

My girl is walking tall!!!

Some videos that show off her walking... and the 2nd shows off some of her finer skills.

The Magic Castle

2011-09-19T10:06:00.000-07:00

Ryan has been raving about the Magic Castle in L.A. for over a year now, so when he said he would be getting a months membership and we could go as his guest we jumped on the opportunity. Even if it was on a Monday night. Plus, how could we resist going to the place of employment of Gob Bluth? (Club-sauce anyone?)

So, as I mentioned before we left Peyton with Wes' wonderful parents (we are so lucky to have great, trustworthy family to leave her with, that not only saves us a few dollars, but leaves me in particular feeling okay about leaving her with anyone else... I still have issues with that) and we headed into L.A. for a magical evening on the town.

Our first stop was at The Habit with Danny and Sarah (see our last post), and then we headed straight there. The building itself is awesome. It was an old house they converted into this exclusive club. Read more about it here. In order to enter you have to say the magic words, abracadabra, for a bookshelf to open in the wall and allow you to walk through. The magicians probably can't tell you this as it might break the "magicians alliance".

Once inside, you can go a number of different ways to see shows, eat, drink, watch Irma the ghost and her parrot play at the magic piano (you request the music), or watch any number of magicians performing at tables located around the building.

We joined Ryan, his parents, Bill and Jayne, and his sister Kristin. All of us were able to participate in the shows at one time or another, and can therefore attest to the fact that we knew nothing of the illusions prior to the performance, and yet they still worked and blew our minds. The magicians (cheesy as some of them were) could do some awesome things. Some we still can't wrap our brains around!!!

I mean, how does someone make a bowling ball fall out of a notebook, seriously?! Or how does Wes not realize their is a sticker with his exact card stuck to the inside of his forearm under his long shirt and suit coat?! Really though, their illusions were unbelievable. I could have done without the obnoxious drunk girls in our group however. Really though, who is so desperate to throw themselves at a magician... a magician?

And, because we were baby free and wanted to make a night of it, we headed over to Mel's on Hollywood and Highland (next to the El Capitan Theater) and got a waffle sundae to share after we left the club at about 1 am... I know we are party animals. We really had such a fun night!

We ran into an old friend here at Mels. You might remember her from here, though we've seen her a few times since.

If you ever get the chance to visit the Magic Castle in Los Angeles, and like magic and a good show, I would not hesitate to go!

We made Ryan (who was our host, and the person who introduce us to Arrested Development) pose like Gob in front of the Magic Castle... against his will I might add.

BTW, we weren't allowed to take any photos inside, and what, with being surrounded by magicians, I just didn't dare. Who knows what kind of tricks they've got up their sleeves.

The Quest: Part 3

2011-09-16T20:09:00.000-07:00

Challenger: The Habit Burger

Reigning Champ: Umami/In N Out

(I haven't sold myself 100% on Umami, though Wes is all about it. So I will put it in a different category (gourmet burgers) based on the fact that their burgers are too different to compare).

We've heard great things about The Habit Burger from a number of friends and family. Well, it just so happens that Camarillo happens to have a Habit Burger that Matt and Jaime really enjoy. Er go, we made the journey there on our quest for greatness accompanied by Matt, Jaime and family.

Yummy!!!!!!!! Need I say more? Well, I suppose I do.

It reminds me of 5 Guys Burgers. Wait for it... only better!

It wasn't quite as heavy or greasy. I enjoyed the taste more. I added bacon on my char-burger and it was spectacular. It was crisp and fresh and delicious! Wes also added avocado, which if you like avocado he
says is a must. (I like guacamole, but not straight avocado, though I don't despise it or anything).

To make this place even better is the fact that they have good fries, with great ranch to dip it in. AND, the best sweet potato fries. They were, how should I say it... the bomb!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Consensus: This is a hard debate. And, the decision is not an easy one.

Umami: Really stands alone. It is the best burger of its kind... gourmet! I really cannot compare this burger to any others I've had... yet. So, it stays as top dog, but in a different category.

I know I am going to make some enemies here, and let me say, In N Out is still one of my favorite places to eat ever. I have grown up on it, and it is hard to compare any burger to In N Out. I love their sauce and their awesome burgers. However, I loved how the Habit had options. Things to add on, different sandwiches, sweet potato fries (mouth salivating) and it is cheap. Comparable to In N Out for sure! So, I think I will say I go with The Habit now. Reigning champ!!!!!!

In fact, we liked it soooo much we brought Danny and Sarah to the new one in Chino Hills just recently and shared our love for this awesome burger!!!

Summer of 2011....

2011-09-14T06:20:00.000-07:00

What a strange summer. I feel like we spent the entire time at the hospital visiting Will, or worrying about Wes' Grandma Gubler who is very sick. Plus, with it being hot and not having a pool and only 1 car, sadly we spent a lot of time inside. But, even with all that going on, we did have a wonderful summer, and did some pretty fun things.

Our summer:

Will's Journey

2011-09-13T21:02:00.000-07:00

Remember Will?

Well, if you don't, Will is my nephew. He got really REALLY sick in Yosemite. He was air lifted from the hospital in Fresno to the Children's Hospital in L.A.

From there he got worse. Had surgeries. Got a little better. Got worse. Then got better enough to be transferred to Kaiser L.A.

From Kaiser L.A. he was then transferred to Kaiser Fontana. (great day!)

In Fontana he continued to get better. With that came cabin fever. He was ready to get out of there!

FINALLY, last week the time came to get our little guy home! 1 day later he started throwing up violently and was severely dehydrated. Back to the hospital he went. After Dr. Slaughter (yup, I said Slaughter) took a look at his insides, and determined it was nothing serious he was put back into the ICU and watched overnight. So, after an I.V. was hooked up and he was re hydrated and all, he was sent HOME!!!!!!!!!!

*****
When we were 1st on our family vacation and William got sick we decided to get together up in Yosemite in the campground for a FAMILY PRAYER for William to get better. Ironically almost all of Sarah & Danny's family were up there for camping that week (my family, or Danny's) AND (Sarah's family, brothers from up north and her parents). So we felt very blessed to at least be together to offer a prayer for William, and to get the daily updates from the hospital all together (usually from the Grandma's: Grandma Sue & Nana Todd).

So through it all, Danny & Sarah have felt SO much support, love, and thousands of PRAYERS offered on William's behalf throughout this journey. So they felt it only appropriate that we "end" this journey with a family prayer with all of us together again to say THANK YOU to our Heavenly Father for blessing us with Will in our lives and for his health. So they had a FAMILY get together Sunday night to express their gratitude and offer a prayer of THANKS.

The best part of it all was William running around us in circles the entire time we talked and prayed. He had his little vacuum and vacuumed under all of our feet and throughout the room and periodically would run and jump into someones arms for a "short" William style cuddle (usually one of the males: Grandpas or Uncles) and usually only about 30 seconds before he got restless again. I loved seeing him full of energy and happy. He ran over to "my" Ella and bonked her on the head and pulled her hair a few times, and I have NEVER seen her laugh and smile to have her hair pulled. :) I think we are ALL just so happy (children included) that our little Will is home and on the mend.

We also have NOT forgotten the PEE PARTY which will soon follow. They just felt that we should get him in a little established routine first and make sure he is back and healthy (no more ER visits) before we start ALL the partying. SO TBA.

So PLEASE now in your homes, for us, offer a prayer of GRATITUDE on William's behalf, and KNOW we are SO grateful to ALL of you who have been (& continue to be) such a HUGE support through the trial. We have felt the Lord's hand in our lives and thank you for your PRAYERS!

Will was even able to attend church on Sunday! What a miracle this little boy is!

Labor Day Getaway

2011-09-08T19:39:00.000-07:00

We didn't have any plans this year for Labor Day, so we called up one of the most fun couples we know and asked if we could intrude upon them for the weekend. They obliged, and the rest is fun history.

Friday: We got up to Camarillo about 6:30 pm and waited for Matt to get home from work. Then, we went to dinner at Los Arroyos near the Camarillo outlets and then hung out the rest of the night.

Saturday: We had a SUPER fun day! We headed to Santa Barbara, which included a beautiful, short but trafficy ride down the coast, a few hours at the Santa Barbara Zoo (which is a perfect little zoo), dinner at Rusty's Pizza (the same chain the Todds used to always enjoy in Bakersfield when we would visit Heidi), some fishing off the pier, the best yogurt and crepes ever, and a fun time playing at this awesome park (except for the 2 little girls who were sleeping and Trent who was being a little Piglet)! Like I said, it was a perfect, fun day!

Peyton loved the animals (especially amphibians) at the zoo. Although, she was more into her snacks towards the end. :)

Flamingos!!! I think I will submit this to awkward family photos.... hahahaha

My favorite animal... elephants

Condors/Vultures

The Rusty's pizza in Santa Barbara is actually an old lighthouse. It was a super neat building with cool decor.

This specific pier is great for fishing. It is lower to the water than most piers and does not have a rail. Makes for some fun catches and anxiety as a parent. :) We saw a big pelican, a few fish being brought up, a huge crab being caught and a number of seals/sea lions swimming.

Notice the life preservers in the container behind Matt.

Sunday: Church. NAPS! Games. And, a wonderful summer BBQ with steak, corn, rice, watermelon, strawberry salad and pudding dessert and crepes.... again. This dinner is so much better than just a bowl of pasta. ;) We also enjoyed a nice walk to the park across the street in the twilight hour. Ahhh, Camarillo is the best!!!

These 2 cuties were very sweet together. Peyton who was kind of a bully to the 2 girls never mistreated little Tug here.

Monday: Breakfast at the Airport Cafe... so cute and so fun. Plus, Peyton has a fascination with planes since we live under the March Air Base flight pattern and we see huge planes all day. In fact, airplane was the first sign she learned. Then, with some deliberation of how the day would proceed, we took naps, figured things out, and then changed plans all together. So, we ended the day at the beach for some boogie boarding and wave chasing. And, dinner at The Habit Burger. This will have it's own post as it is part of the quest for the best burger.

We ate outside and were lucky enough to have a few people come and go in their small planes.

Oh, and did I forget to mention this awesome neighbor of the Huefners, whom Tyler informed us likes to wear really short shorts around the hood. I guess he forgot to wear his short shorts while we were there. :)

At the beach all Peyton wanted to do was walk around holding someones hands. She loved the water and loved playing with the Alaskan Husky one of the neighbors had near us.

Seriously, if you ever want to hang out with the nicest/most easy going couple who have the cutest kids, head out to Camarillo... the Huefners do NOT disappoint!!!

Thank you again for having us!!! Sorry Peyton was such a little bully!

And if you needed to see her bully face... her you go. :)

I've Never Been More Excited....

2011-09-05T22:59:00.000-07:00

For the holiday movies to be released! Especially: Henry and The Secret of Yosemite.

It looks soooooooo good!

The Noise

2011-09-04T14:00:00.000-07:00

We moved into our house in April of 2007 (4 years ago). Since that time every single night we have heard a noise. We've always wondered what it was and have made several guesses and have talked about driving around until we've figured it out. Finally, on Wednesday, Wes had enough. He left at 12:20 am and drove around until he figured it out.

Which he did!!!!!!!

It was simply a big vacuum cleaner at Walmart they use for the parking lot. Not the U.F.O. we had hoped it was.

Mystery. Solved.

Flashback Friday: 80's

2011-09-02T07:27:00.000-07:00

Here is just a little preview of how totally awesome the 80's were. I mean we had the Bon-Jovi party bangs and perms, rockin' outfits, and just the whole vibe going. Yea Team Todd!!!

Here is Danny... looking a whole lot like little William. This was probably the very late 70's, but needless to say, Dan was quite the ladies man in this leisure suit.

I am woman, hear me roar! Heidi's theme for this 80's classic. (Although, Heidi definitely has some of the best (worst) 80's photos. Ties, vests, high ponytails and crimpy bangs. We should just do a post on her in the 80's. :) (We blame my mom for our unfortunate looks in our younger years).

O.G. flowers in the hair. Also, I am notorious for having 1 eye smaller than the other when I smile in photos. Peyton appears to be taking after me in this regard. This hairstyle btw is known as "the wolfman". It is an attempt at a mullet, but not going all out with it yet.

Hayley on the other hand (also known as Harry and the Hendersons at this age) really shows no shame when rocking her mullet. You go girl!

And, last but not least, enjoy the family Todd portrait in all it's 80's glory. Big hair and big collars.

Lake Perris

2011-08-28T15:21:00.000-07:00

Some friends from the ward invited us (and the Brobergs who are also in the ward) out for a fun day on the lake with them yesterday. They have a great boat and an awesome tube which made for some crazy rides and killer wipe-outs!!!

Here are the gals all lotioned up and ready to go.

Asher loved riding on the boat... and just wanted to jump around. Peyton loved eating her hat, and fell asleep both times we got on the boat.

This is her "happy smile" btw.

We started out with Ned and Wes on the tube. Their facial expressions were priceless. I really wish we had it on film. Butter-grip Ned was the first to let go. As he wiped out, Ella who was a little freaked out with the whole idea as it was, had a pretty traumatic moment! She thought Ned was lost to the world. She started sobbing and frantically screaming "daddy, daddy, Noooooo!!!!!!!" It was sad and hilarious at the same time.

After the spill, they switched to riding this way... which was equally funny.

Then, it was Asher's turn. He took it well. Ella came next, it was pretty much the same as when Ned wiped out. Only this time she yelled.... "He tricked me! Forrest tricked me!" Me, Kim and Heidi had a good laugh at that one.

After tubing for a while, we went back, bbq'd some wieners and corn. Hung out in the water for a bit. Then headed back out.

Peyton absolutely LOVED the water and wanted me to dunk her and throw her in. It was so cute and funny.

Here Forrest gave Wes, Ned and myself a crazy ride. We were all flying in the air. I swear at one point we got up like 6 feet. It felt like forever before the tube hit the water again. Too bad we didn't get any photos of that ride.

The best part of the day was that it was a 3 minute ride home. We had so much fun. And, are so grateful to have such great friends!!!!!!! Thanks again Hernandez's. :) Seriously, we had a blast!!!

Unofficial: 13 Months

2011-08-25T21:30:00.000-07:00

I won't be doing monthly posts on my baby anymore, but today was a big day, and it just so happened to be her 13 month b-day... so, I will make an exception.

At my parent's house today it just clicked for Little Miss, and she started to tentatively walk on her own. We've been working with her, but today she did it with no prompting or help. She would crawl over to the couch, stand up and turn, make sure either myself or Wes was watching, then teeter off until she fell. And then repeat the pattern over again. She took 7 straight steps at the most,. and numerous times at least 4-5. (Obviously, she still prefers to crawl though).

My little girl is growing up.

And just for kicks she also:
Folds her arms for prayers (sometimes without being asked)
Knows her nose, mouth, tummy and hair
Does an Elvis Presley impression
Waves
Says "hi" "yeah" (and claps) "uh oh" "mama" and "dada"
Signs "more" and "airplane" (these may be the only 2 signs I know too) :)
Knows to clap during the song "If you're happy and you know it..."
Has killer dance moves
Fake laughs
Crys with her tongue hanging out
Loves to nod and shake her head
Does a fish face
Loves to shake her whole body with an intense face
Fake eats food
Does a refreshing "ahhhh" sound after she watches us drink
Loves to balance things on her head
Has a bottom moler coming in
And points to everything

She is right around the 25th % in both weight and height.

Here is Peyton just chillin' (wide awake) in her stroller at Disneyland. She thinks she is pretty cool when she has on her sunglasses.

Here is a video that shows off most of her tricks.............

Death Cab For Cutie

2011-08-22T23:34:00.000-07:00

Friday was a night Wes and I have been looking forward to for months and months and months. If you'll recall I got Wes tickets for his birthday in April to see our very most favorite, the most awesome coolest band ever, Death Cab For Cutie. I mean, we really like them! And let me just say the night was NOT a disappointment!

Starting with dinner at the Cheesecake Factory at the Americana shopping center in Glendale where we sat outside on the patio, enjoyed the beautiful cool weather, the water show and people watching. That in itself was a fun date night. But, the night just kept getting better and better.

We then headed to the Greek Theater, got a primo parking spot, had pretty dang good seats, and were then honored to witness pure musical magic. Seriously, we just kept looking at each other and smiled, giddy with excitement. With each song we would get a little anxiety thinking it might be the last. They were just that good.

The band was awesome live. We knew every single song they played. They performed most of our favorite songs, and even ended the encore with "Transatlanticism" which is OUR SONG!

*Transatlanticism is our song because in 2005 while I was across the Atlantic Ocean in London for my Semester Abroad, we both unknowingly listened to that song and thought about the other. We had this epiphany when I got home and deemed it our song.

Okay, and I may have got teary eyed when they played "What Sarah Said" because it made me think of my sweet little nephew William.

We were also groupies at the end of the night and hung out by the bands bus for a little over an hour trying to meet the band (I've had some luck in the past with other bands doing this). We met a few characters, a name dropper, and did see the lead singer Ben Gibbard drive off in his Prius.

This was one of the best date nights we have had in our married life, and one I won't forget any time soon. It was honestly So. Much. Fun!!!!

The Gubs

2011-08-21T23:42:00.000-07:00

So, Wes has amazing Grandparents on both sides. Being that almost all of mine are dead (except for one Grandpa I've only met a handful of times) I have officially adopted his. I love them! Especially the Gublers... and I love them for more than their awesome last name by the way. Gubler (hehehehe). :)

Unfortunately, Grandma Gubler is very sick. A few years ago she got breast cancer, but after some heavy chemotherapy that almost killed her, she beat it. Then, about a year ago she got really sick again, and could not figure out why. In October we went and visited her and the poor lady was doubled over in pain, had to stop mid sentence because it was so bad, and all in all she was really bad. After a number of Dr. and hospital visits where the just couldn't figure out what exactly was wrong, they went in and did exploratory surgery. They found a large mass which they removed, and later discovered it was cancer. Sadly, the cancer has continued to spread and at this point she is in a hospice just trying to stay as comfortable as possible.

Poor Grandpa Gubler (who looking ways is the same as the man from the movie UP) does everything in his power to make her happy and comfortable. He is by her side all day. When we showed up on Friday to visit her in the hospice he was out with the workers cleaning the porch. I just can't say in words how much I love that man! He took us to breakfast, made some hilarious jokes, and sat and played and talked to Peyton the entire time.

We were so happy to spend time with the Gubs, and hope they know what a wonderful couple they are and how loved and prayed for they are. St. George is all the better because they are there.

The last time we were able to make the trip up there to visit was in January. Then she was doing very well and seemed pretty good and healthy. I didn't take any pictures from this trip because I knew she would have been too embarrassed. So, this photo below is from January of 2011. The photo with Grandpa Gubler below was taken this trip.

Another reason we LOVE going to St. George is because Fred and Sandie have an absolutely beautiful house there that we love to stay in. It almost feels like a resort while we are there.

AND... there are a few eating places we like to go to. One in particular is a beverage place called SWIG. It is so fun, and you don't even have to get out of your car. The only bummer about St. George is that everything closes at 7:30 pm. We showed up to 2 different places to eat and both were closed. Seriously?

We also went to the St. George temple (even though it was a sauna outside) and enjoyed walking around and going through the visitor center. One sister missionary showed us a beautiful video on the family in a rotating room and brought me to tears. I love moments like that. Well, not the tears but the feelings. :)

We also decided prior to leaving on Monday (btw, we decided on a whim to head up there) that it was time to move Peyton into a bigger, forward facing chair, since at her 1 year apt she was exactly 20 lbs. And, she loves it. She just smiles every time we look back at her, and talks non stop. Plus, it is easier to hand things to her and see what she is up to. A win win for us all.

The Circus: AKA The Greatest Show On Earth

2011-08-15T00:17:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we went to the Barnum and Bailey Circus. It was definitely fully charged, which also just happened to be the theme of the circus and the day!!! We were joined by my family and my friend Jill and her daughter Kaelyn. I think it is safe to say we all had fun. Although, some parts of the circus were, how might one put it? Cheesy!!! But, the acts were incredible and we were thoroughly entertained. Peyton loved it, although she did get a little antsy until she got soda, licorice and popcorn from some other members of the family. ;)

If you get to the venue early (we saw the show in Ontario), they let you go down on the ground and dress up and see some of the acts and elephants up close. It was pretty fun actually.

Like I said, Peyton loved it. In the beginning she just stared and danced around. It was darling.

My favorite animal is an elephant. They are so dang cute. One of my (actually our) favorite parts of the whole show was when one elephant started to poop... and lemme tell you they are BIG turds and the lady worker ran around following it trying to catch it in the shovel. Pure comedy!

And, what's a circus without man eating tigers. Sorry Sigfried. BTW, it was always a life long dream of mine to see Sigfried and Roy. It still breaks my heart to this day that I will never live my dream.

Photo Shoot

2011-08-12T00:07:00.000-07:00

My dear friend, who is also a great photographer, did an amazing photo shoot for my bugga-boo. Check them out. And, honestly, I can't tell you what an amazing photographer and person Camille is. I highly recommend her!!!

Here is a link to her blog... which also shows off some of the cute photos she got of my gal.