The Winslow 5

Happy Memorial Day!

2010-05-30T22:13:00.000-07:00

Again, it's been a long time! Just thought I'd post a quick update to let you know what we've been up too since my last post.

In April, Michael turned 9 years old, it's so amazing to Ed and I at how fast the kids are growing up!! We went to Disneyland to celebrate Michael and had a great day. Michael is such a wonderful, determined boy and he really makes life in the Winslow house exciting!! We love you very much Mikey!!

Samantha was in the choir at church this last year and they had their final concert in May. She had so much fun and made so many great friends!! Sammie is gifted with a beautiful voice and we love watching and hearing her sing.

Sammie also finished up her softball season, which is a good thing! It was fun, but it's really neat when I see the kids decide on what there interest is and is not. I was so proud of her during the season when she knew this wasn't her thing but she gave her best effort during the whole season! Good-bye Softball!

Robert had a first, the first you don't want to have - a broken wrist! Of course, it's the height of baseball season and Rob has a broken wrist - bummer. The good thing is the day before he broke his wrist he tried out for a tournament team and did outstanding. What's cool is they had the draft and the coaches knew he broke his wrist and he was still drafted - Yeah! He gets his cast off this week then has three weeks before he can start playing. He's so anxious to get back in the game but Ed and I keep telling him to lay low so your not out for longer. We'll see how is goes!

Here's a pic from mother's day. I have been so blessed to have the most wonderful Mom and Grandma!

That's all the highlights in a nutshell. Ed and I are still both working and it's exhausting! I am really enjoying having a three day weekend, I really appreciate the time off, as does my house! This weekend I am also feeling very patriotic and am very thankful for our soldiers who are serving and fighting and those who have given their lives for my freedom. God bless America and our military!

Our weekend

2010-03-15T12:41:00.000-07:00

Sammie was is the annual Talent Show at Skyblue. She sang "The Best Day", by Taylor Swift. She did great, fabulous, terrific and makes me cry every time she preforms!! I am always so proud of her!! Here's a clip of the end...

Michael gave Sam some pink tulips after the show.As soon as the talent show was over we ran to Sam's softball game, in the meantime Robert was already there playing his game.Sammie is on the American Wolverines, in the pic she's on second. She really enjoys the girls on her team, that makes it really fun!Robert is on the National Dodgers this year. Having a great season so far!Michael had his game on Sunday, he's on the American Nationals this season. He is growing into such a great player and he is enjoying himself.

Winslow Sightings

2010-03-11T12:29:00.000-08:00

It's been a long time since I've posted, three months to be exact!

HELLO!!!

I'll start with the most recent events and work my way back to catch you all up on what we've been up to.

Sammie was just awarded the citizenship award yesterday at school. As you all have heard me say before, this is the best award in my eyes because it speaks mostly of someones Character. We are so proud of Sam, her kindness and good example to those around her is being noticed by her teachers. I love it!

Last week Robert was inducted into the Honor Society at his Jr.High - WOOT WOOT!!!

Baseball & Softball are back in full swing so there are really no nights that we are at home, it's exhausting but we love it!! I'll post picks later in the season.

Ed and Sammie went to the father daughter dance at school & banquet at church all in the same weekend. They had so much fun!!

Why I've not been posting much is because of our next event. I'm working again.....I work for a company called Miracle Assistant. It's been a blessing but I'm having a hard time juggling our crazy, busy lives, work, and keeping up on housework. Ed has really been so helpful, but my house is a mess!!!

Fenway is the newest addition to our family. Robert bought this sweet little (BIG)golden mix with his own money. She is the cutest, smartest puppy I've ever met. We love her but not so much the mess she leaves behind ~ paper shreddings everywhere. Good thing she is so cute!!
Here's a movie of Fenway when she was smaller riding her favorite toy. This was the end of January.

2010-03-11T12:28:00.001-08:00

Christmas festivities

2009-12-21T22:13:00.000-08:00

Last Friday we went to Disneyland and to our surprise Dean and Carrie were going too!! We had such a blast with them, like always!!

On Sunday we had our Christmas with Mark & Pam. We always have such a great time and their house is decorated beyond great!! They are so great at throwing parties but they are just super fun to be around!! It was so good to see Abby, Landon & Rochelle (Landon's girlfriend)!! We missed Matt who is still living in Thailand and Chelsie who married Scott and is living in Germany.

We are truly blessed with a great family!!!

2009-12-21T21:54:00.001-08:00

Back in Blogland

2009-12-21T20:03:00.000-08:00

Well it's been quite a while since my last post, a lot has happened since October!

First, thank you, thank you to those who kept my dad and family in your prayers. His surgery was very long but best of all very successful!! We had many church friends (about 12) at the hospital to support my family - amazing testimony to the family of God and the love we share!! I was so blessed to have my friend Cherie Vann there the entire day and night to be my support. She stayed with my mom and I until we were able to see my dad in his room and make sure he was as comfortable as possible. The mark of a really great friend ~ they will let you go to Tommy's Burgers at midnight and eat right along with you. Just to show support! Love you Cher Bear!!

We are continuing to pray that the nerves in my dad's face will come back sooner than the 6 months the doctors project. Also, for the hearing in his ear which is gone.

Thanksgiving was a really relaxing day with my parents and Grandma. We had so much to be thankful for it was so good just to be together!!! Here's a few pics:

Surgery Tomorrow!

2009-10-21T08:32:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all who have been holding our family in your prayers! Tomorrow morning is my Dad's surgery here's a clip of my dad's email to explain it all....

"I received relatively good news this morning from the 10 member Kaiser Oncology Board. After each had felt my neck (and cumulatively given me about an hour neck message), I told them this was an awesome deal ... one hour message for $5 fee (my Kaiser plan payment). They laughed...
Result. It appears to them than the skin cancer (from sun radiation) had traversed down to the lymph nodes. Therefore the total path of travel must be removed. So, they plan to make an incision above the ear down to the lower neck to remove all flesh (fat) and lymph nodes (which hide in the "fat"). So, I will have a skin depression in this area. They will not remove the skin but merely fold it back while they remove the "insides". They must remove the Parotid Gland (as that is the "travel" route).... being careful to not injure the facial nerves that go through the Parotid Gland ... (or all I could give you is 1/2 a smile)."

Well there you go! Please keep him and the doctors in your prayers! Don't forget to put on your sunscreen my dear friends and family!!

A journey we never wanted to take...

2009-10-01T11:00:00.000-07:00

On September 24Th, my dad called while I was helping the kids with their homework and the story begins... Cancer is the verdict. My initial response was tears and heartache. My next response was tears and nausea. Then I moved onto more tears and just feeling numb. After the waterfall of tears and about three hours of sleep, I start thinking clearer. I came to the realization that God loves my Dad even more than I'm capable of loving him and like me God does not enjoy seeing His children suffer. I haven't been able to update my blog until now to let you all know whats been going on. I think, I've been thinking if I don't talk about it it will go away -dumb, I know! So, here we go on this journey that we never wanted to take. As of right now we are in the waiting mode. Biopsy confirmed the cancer (Squamous Cell), good news the liver test came back clear. We are waiting on the MRI that he had last Sunday morning, then we'll get a surgery date. We are praying the cancer has not spread to more than one module, the MRI will confirm. So, if you all would keep my Dad and Mom in your prayers, it would really mean a lot to me!! God has given my dad and mom great peace in this. I'm trusting God, still occasionally my heart hurts, I'm my dad's little girl.

Back in full swing!

2009-09-20T19:40:00.000-07:00

This weekend Fall Baseball, Softball & Club Ball began. Our first game was Michael's he's on the Dodgers this season. Michael's big moment was when he was playing third base and a line drive came right at him and he caught it! Great job Mikey!!!Samantha is playing her first season ever of softball. She is on the Titans this season. She had a great game and Ed and I were so proud of her!!! You go girl, Peace!! FYI, Peace is Sam's nickname for her jersey - cute, my flower child.Robert had a great game today. He is still playing with his travel team, The Fury. Here's a clip of him pitching, let me brag, he is really good!

Just another day

2009-09-15T19:46:00.000-07:00

Michael loves to help with cooking, so yesterday after he finished his homework, I asked him if he would peel the potatoes for dinner. This is his work station planted right in front of the TV, what a crack-up! I love his helpful sweet self and the fact that he thoroughly enjoys himself!Since I had my camera out I needed to take a picture of what Robert spends most of his time doing.......Homework! Lots & Lots of Homework!! Robert is a great student and we are very proud of how diligent he works!Up the stairs I went looking for Sam, to my surprise the phone was not attached to her ear! Instead she was contemplating cleaning her room - NOT! Sam is also a very great student and incredibly creative. I've heard that creative minds sometimes like messy rooms because they are so busy organizing the thoughts of the next great story!! Sam, please dedicate your first book to your mom and dad!!

2009-09-12T20:07:00.001-07:00

Happy 12th Birthday Robert!!

2009-08-19T11:44:00.000-07:00

August 19, 1997, 1:13pm, 21 inches long, 8 lbs 11 oz.

Robert turned 12 years old today - WOW!! Time truly flies by! Robert you are such a blessing and we love you with our whole heart!! Happy Birthday Bud!

Vacation Part 2

2009-08-11T09:21:00.000-07:00

We've been home for a week now, so I decided I need to post the rest of our vacation before I forget all we did!!

My last post we were in Billing, Montana. Here's a picture of General Custer's maker where he died at Little Bighorn. All the other markers are where other soldiers fell.
On to Yellowstone, WY where we saw Old Faithful
Morning Glory Pool
On to Beautiful, Jackson, WY
We went to a rodeo and Michael got to participate in a pull the ribbon off the cow chasing contest. He didn't get the ribbon but he got slim (cow saliva) all over his arm - yuck!
Snake River, innertube freak Mom out trip....long story!

Shoshone Falls, Twinfalls, ID

Boomtown, Reno, NV
We stayed in San Francisco, CA for almost a week it was freezing but we really had alot of fun!!
Golden Gate Bridge (don't you love these jackets in July)
Went to an Oakland A's game
Fisherman's Warf
Robert's 1st Cracked Crab, he loved it!
Pier 39 Sealions
Alcatraz
Spongebob and Sammie (seriously!)
Sundaes at Ghirardelli Square
Last but not least, we spent the last week at Pismo Beach. I'm a California girl so I had to have my beach fix!! It was absolutely beautiful!! A super fun part of the week was collecting sand dollars!
Thanks Ed for working so hard to provide us with a vacation of a lifetime! We love you!
THE END

Our Vacation Part 1

2009-07-08T18:00:00.000-07:00

We are currently 13 days into our 5 week vacation and having a great time. Yes, it is alot of driving
but the kids have been doing great!
Our first stop was in Cedar City, UT, all I could say is that it was gorgeous and I would definitely go back! Our next stop was Salt Lake City, UT. While we were there we took a tour of the State Capitol which was absolutely beautiful - a must see if you ever head that way. We also walked around the Temple Square and ate lunch and Bringham Young's old home, by the way Mormons don't drink coffee, that it just crazy for someone with my addiction to coffee - I settled for a nice cup of ice water. The grounds were beautiful the temple is off limits to only the chosen people. I thought that was amazing that a "church" could be off limits - obviously they have something to hide. It was really amazing as we drove though the entire state of Utah, every couple blocks there was a church, I don't think I've ever seen so many churches in my life. In Rawlins, WY we had so much fun and I found something I love - Deep Fried Pickles!! We took a tour of the Frontier Penitentiary est. in 1888 - so interesting! They had a gas chamber and a Gallo for hangings - yikes!
We also went to the Carbon County Museum, it was a journey back in time - another must see!!

On to Mt. Rushmore, I don't think we missed much here's a list of where we went - Sturgis,
Wall Drug,
The Badlands,
Crazy Horse Memorial,
The Mammoth Site,
Mt. Rushmore! Amazing, Amazing is all I can say!
Seeing wild Buffalo up close!!
Today we are in Billing, MT. We toured Little Bighorn Memorial and it was - WOW!! It made me sad to see what greed does, how many senseless deaths because the white man wanted more. This trip has been such a great history lesson for the whole family. We are all enjoying every moment. I will try to post more often. I hope you enjoy the pictures!

So far this summer....

2009-06-21T08:45:00.000-07:00

We have been nonstop so far this summer. We are getting ready to leave on our 5 week vacation, so life has been happening fast. We brought our trailer home a couple weeks ago to clean it and get ready for our trip, it was fun to have all the kids help wash it! We took it back to storage and will be bringing it home this week for me to load - Yea!! We also went to Disneyland with our cousins, which is always a favorite, we love when they come to Cali! Last week and this week I get to watch Dean and Carries girls who are the sweetest! It's very helpful because it keeps my kids busy so I can get my work done before we leave on Friday! We just wrapped up baseball and I'm in shock - no baseball games for 5 weeks since we are not going to be around. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE baseball but a break from it is going to be really nice! Yesterday, Sammie and I went to, my niece, (Dean's oldest girl) Chelsie's bridal shower in Santa Barbara. Chels is getting married while we are gone so we are sad to miss the wedding. She is going to be the most beautiful bride!! She is marrying Scott and will be moving to Germany, he is a missionary to military youth kids - isn't that neat!! So here's some pics from the last two weeks.

2009-06-21T08:42:00.001-07:00

Robert Opening his main gift!

2009-06-05T19:32:00.000-07:00

Robert's Graduation!!!

2009-06-05T14:28:00.000-07:00

Robert graduated today from 6th grade. The ceremony was amazing!! Robert received a Citizenship award that was a letter signed by the President - cool!! Here's a little clip of Robert getting his diploma. We are so proud of Robert!!!

2009-06-05T14:27:00.001-07:00

Way to go Yankee's!!

2009-06-02T13:46:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we had our end of the season party for the Yankees. Ed was the manager for Michael's team this year and he did a terrific job!! I was so proud of how Ed gave individual attention to better each player throughout the season. Michael fell in love with the game this year and it is so exciting to see him grow into a great team player!! Thanks Ed for making me a proud wife and Michael for giving me a reason to cheer!! I love you!!!

2009-06-02T13:44:00.001-07:00

2009-05-28T09:56:00.001-07:00

Time goes by so fast!

2009-05-18T20:27:00.000-07:00

This morning I took Robert to a 6th Grade Introduction to Junior High at his new school. I am amazed at how life is going by so fast! My baby, my first born, is growing up! Robert graduates on June 5th from 6th grade, not so long ago I was walking him into kindergarten. Today, I had mixed feelings as I watched him at his new Jr. High Assembly, one of excitement, one of emptiness, if that's the right word. I'm so excited for Robert to be starting this new stage in life. It makes me excited when I see him get excited! On the other hand, as I drove Robert back to his elementary school, I got a pit in my stomach as we approached. The thought that things will never be the same, they are going to change because he's growing up. Tonight, my thought is to savor the time I have with my children because time goes by fast when I'm not paying attention to it!! I remember, my parents telling me when my kids were babies, to enjoy this time, it will go by very fast. Like always they were right, it is going by too fast!!

A Special Day with Robert!

2009-05-12T10:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I took Robert to Disneyland. Robert was sick when we took Michael for his birthday, so it was his turn to go!! We had a lot of fun, eating, going on rides, eating, rides, eating, rides, eating - get it, he's a growing boy. When you look at the pictures notice how tall Robert is getting, he's an inch away from my height. It was a great day together!! Robert is a really cool kid and I'm so glad he's ours!!

2009-05-12T10:21:00.001-07:00

Rattler #2

2009-05-07T09:38:00.001-07:00

Two rattle snakes in one week is more than enough for me to handle. The bad news is this one got away!!!

It's officially Snake Season at the Winslow's

2009-05-04T11:00:00.000-07:00

Yes in deed, we had our first rattle snake for the year yesterday. I really hate snakes, they send my heart racing!! Ed was still out of town with the boys, so I went looking for a neighbor to save the day. I found a friendly neighbor and asked him to come kill it for me. Yes, I am a chicken!! This snake was not huge like the last one, this one was a baby - the deadliest kind! I took a picture once it had no head and after I did the grossed out dance. So, my thought today is to always go out of your way to show kindness to your neighbors!! I so appreciate Jim helping me out!!

Girls just want to have fun!

2009-05-03T10:22:00.000-07:00

The boys were having a special weekend with Ed at a fisherman's conference up at Hume Lake. So, on Friday I took Sammie out of school to go to Disneyland. Sam and I had an absolute blast!! Roller coasters, ice cream, shopping who could ask for a better day!! Sammie and I bought matching earrings - Tinkerbell with our birthstone (topaz) in it. Sam is so fun she loves all the fast roller coasters, so we laughed and giggled the whole day!!

2009-05-03T10:20:00.001-07:00

Happy 8th Birthday Michael!

2009-04-29T12:56:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been 8 years!! On Monday, Michael turned 8 years old so we had planned on taking all the kids to Disneyland. Unfortunately, Robert came down with a high fever the night before so he was unable to go with us. Ed and I took Michael and Sammie and we had a great time even though we all missed Robert. As you can see in the pictures Michael hammed it up all day, he's a crack up!! We are so thankful for the blessing Michael is, he is such a gift from God. We love you Michael!!

2009-04-29T12:51:00.001-07:00

California Gold Rush

2009-04-24T13:25:00.000-07:00

Sammie's 4th grade class studied the California Gold Rush in school this week. They celebrated the end of the week with a old fashion Hoe Down. It was so much fun we all got to join in the dancing at the end of the performance. Here's a video of one of the square dances they learned. Sammie is in the brown skirt and vest, her hair is in a pony tail.

Fun filled day!

2009-04-18T18:31:00.000-07:00

This morning we started off at Samantha's talent show. She has been singing in the Talent show every year since 1st grade. Sam has a beautiful voice and is such an enjoyment to listen to. This year Sammie sang with two of her friends and they did a great job!! Here is a picture of Brianna, Rebecka and Samantha. Both Michael and Robert had games today, and they did great!! These are the best of times!! We finished the day celebrating Granny's Birthday, which is actually tomorrow. Here's a video of her opening up her gift from John, Sue, Ed, me and all the grand kids.
Ed's mom is such a blessing to me and I really lucked out with having the best Mother-in-Law in the whole world!!

Cleaning fun!!

2009-04-16T11:50:00.000-07:00

Today has been very productive day. Cleaned the kitchen, finished the laundry then started to put it all away. Usually, Ed puts all his laundry away but today I thought I'd do it for him. Then it hit me, no really it hit me, when it all comes a tumbling down. This is why my poor Ed can't find anything in his closet, it's because of this... I decided it was time to attack this beast and tame it. My sweet husband has so much on his plate with providing for our family that it's silly of me to make him put his laundry away. So, hopefully my little chore will make his life a little bit easier.

2009-04-13T09:23:00.001-07:00

Santa Clarita Fury

2009-04-13T08:36:00.000-07:00

Robert is such a great pitcher and really enjoys it. It's so fun watching him!
Here's a picture of Robert's travel ball team. He had a great time this weekend!

Twilight Addict

2009-04-08T19:37:00.000-07:00

Well I have to confess that I truly have an addiction to the Twilight Series. I know, I know, it's the craziest thing. For the last year all I kept hearing is how great the Twilight books are. I really had no interest in reading about vampires and were wolfs personally it sounded repulsive. Seriously, who wants to waste time on such nonsense! As a side note, I run the Book fair at our school and the Twilight Saga was at our fair. I was talking to people about these books because I didn't understand what the big deal was with them. One of my friends said just read them and let me borrow her four books. Let me tell you, I could not put them down! I read them all in two weeks. I then decided that I had to have my own copy - thanks Amazon! I have reread them and they are going to Yellowstone with us this summer - CRAZY, I know.

An apple a day.....

2009-04-06T18:46:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I've not blogged or read blogs in a while because I have been sicker than a dog. (Where does that expression come from?) I'm feeling much better obviously, so I thought I'd check back into blogland. Hello everyone!! Today, was a beautiful day, 85 degrees a perfect day for Sammie's first ever golf lesson. She has been wanting to learn for a long time so this was very fun!! She is attending a Jr. Golf Academy at one of our local golf courses and she loved it!!Before I was down for the count I took some pics of Michael and Ed (kind of) at one of Michael's game. Ed is adjusting Michael's catching gear - cute!
Doesn't Michael look cool as a catcher, he loves that position.

Robert is doing GREAT with his two teams, people are starting to call me Robert's mom rather than Sandy - hmmmm. Robert has a tournament coming up this weekend with his travel ball team which will be a blast. I'll post pictures!

Everyboby can now leave a comment

2009-03-26T16:14:00.000-07:00

Sorry to those who have wanted to comment on my blog but have not been able to. I have now adjusted my settings so that all you friends and family can leave comments even if you are not a blogger. Enjoy!!

Please pray for Todd Ridenour

2009-03-25T18:09:00.000-07:00

Todd is my brother Deans ex-brother-in-law - that's a mouth full. He was in a serious accident doing construction work at a church in Mexico. He fell though a roof and landed on a 13,200 volt transformer. He is at Grossman burn center being treated for very serious burns. Please check out his blog so you know how to be praying Toddridenour.blogspot.com. Thanks friends!!

Happy 53rd Anniversary Mom & Dad

2009-03-23T07:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad!! We love you very much and are so thankful for your example of togetherness!! Have a fun day celebrating 53 years! XOXO

Watch out Danielle Steel, here comes Samantha Winslow!!

2009-03-20T14:38:00.000-07:00

Samantha received an award at school for "Outstanding Author" Yeah! This is a huge honor given by her teacher, Miss. Peak, who's specialty is literature! Sam has been writing stories before she could ever write! She would draw pictures to tell her story, now she's a writer - No, an Author!! Great job Sam! You have such a talent and your stories are amazing!!

Michael's first hit of the season!

2009-03-09T21:33:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that I caught it on camera!! He's an amazing kid!

Math Wiz

2009-03-09T15:18:00.000-07:00

Michael received an award at school for outstanding achievement in Math! Here's a picture of Michael and his teacher Mrs. Hamilton. We are so proud of him and how hard he tries at school!
Michael you are an amazing 2nd grader and our cherry on top of our Sunday!! We love you buggie!!

4x4 Challenge

2009-02-27T20:22:00.000-08:00

My friend Andrea tagged me two weeks ago with the 4X4 Challenge. I had to go through my photos and go to my 4th folder and post the 4th picture. I love this challenge because it takes you back in time. This is Michael and Robert with his very best friend during kindergarten and first grade, Zachary Roberts. I love this photo and the memories it holds!! Zach and his family were moving to Hong Kong a week or two later after this picture was taken. It was so hard to see Robert say goodbye to his best bud, at the same time I had a hard time saying goodbye to Suzy (Zach's mom) who had become my very dear friend. I miss those days and wish we lived closer longer!! Note to self: Cherish those around you and don't let life get so busy that your friends pass though without knowing how important they truly are! I had to include the 4x2 pic. also because it has all the kids in it Sammie, Zach, Robert, Michael and Joel (baby Daniel not pictured).

Happy Anniversary Ed!

2009-02-17T07:22:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's only been 13 years, I don't really remember my life without you in it! I love you Ed and am very thankful for you! Thank you for being a wonderful husband, father and provider for our family. We are truly blessed! XOXO

Ed and Sammies Date Night

2009-02-09T10:17:00.000-08:00

Every year Ed takes Sammie to the Father/Daughter banquet at church. This is a night that they both look forward to and really enjoy! Sammie loves getting dressed up, doesn't she look so grown up!!! They had a blast and to prove that it was a true date they both came home with Starbucks, I was a little envious!

Back from Iraq!!

2009-02-06T20:30:00.000-08:00

I am so excited that Chris is back from Iraq. Jen was so strong while he was gone! I stole these pics from her facebook because they made me cry, sweet happy tears. I love seeing Chris back home safe and sound with Jen and the boys. Thanks Chris for how you honor and serve our country!!

Been too busy to blog!

2009-02-03T20:25:00.000-08:00

Life has been going by fast. Baseball is in full swing! Ed is Managing Michael's Pinto team this year, which is going to be a lot of fun. Michael is so excited to have his Dad be the "coach." I am helping out with the team parent responsibilities with Sammie's help too, and Robert is helping the team with their practices and sharing his expertise. It's a family affair for the Yankees and we are all so excited to have a great season! Robert is playing for the Twins this season, he was drafted by his travel ball coach along with three others from his SC Fury team. This season looks to be a very fun and competitive time - Love it!! Sammie is busy with preparing for her performance in the schools annual talent show. She has been singing in it every year and is so gifted! I love to hear her sing, she has a beautiful voice!!

Super Stampin fun day with Sam!

2009-01-24T19:35:00.000-08:00

Today Sammie and I went to a Stampin Up workshop and had a blast! It was so great to spend time doing a girly thing with each other! Sammie made these cards all by herself! Didn't she do great!! She also won her very own stamp set - hopefully she'll let me borrow it!! It was a great day just hangin out with my girl!!

Our weekend!

2009-01-20T19:25:00.000-08:00

Robert played in a MLK Tournament this weekend and wow, was it awesome!! Robert had the most amazing weekend, he blew Ed and I out of the water with how incredible he played!! Even the manager from the other team came out to shake Robert's hand TWO times in the Championship game!! Robert made a terrific double play when he was at third base, the crowd went wild!! He pitched the last half of the game and did the best we'd ever seen him do!! Ed and I were so happy for him! His team came in second place, the boys all played their best and were really excited! Way to go Fury!! As for Sammie and Michael they had a fun time playing with their friends, poor Michael with all those dolls!! One cool thing after Saturday's game we went out to eat and saw the best basketball coach ever - John Wooden!!

2009-01-20T19:24:00.001-08:00

Sam's California Mission

2009-01-20T19:07:00.000-08:00

The last few weeks Samantha has been hard at work building the Santa Ines Mission. She did a terrific job and got it to school today with it still intact - Yeah!! By the way she has on her painting shirt in both pictures, different days same shirt. Why ruin more than one shirt on a project - Hee-Hee!!

Friendly Neighborhood Bobcat, Not so Friendly!

2009-01-10T16:05:00.000-08:00

I just witnessed my sweet bunny that I had saved from our mean, ugly, rattlesnake taken by one of our "Friendly neighborhood Bobcats". I emotionally adopted this sweet brown bunny back in November 07, it was about 4 weeks old when I first found it. The cutest tiny little bunny I have ever seen. Everyday I look out my window to check if my bunny is okay, well, today was a different story. I was standing in my kitchen from just coming in from the backyard and saw "him" our over sized Bobcat. He's quite beautiful! As I watched him, he looked at me, then... he got into pouncing position, out of the side yard hops my bunny. My bunny made a run for it but the bobcat was much faster. My heart dropped into my stomach as I watched that mean bobcat carry away my bunny in his mouth. :( Boo-hoo, I'm sad!!

Bon Voyage!

2009-01-04T13:36:00.000-08:00

Today Ed and I took my parents, Grandma and Aunt Bette to Union Station. They took the train to San Diego to board a cruise ship which they will be living on the next 33 days! They are going to Hawaii, Tahiti, Marquesas and many stops in between. We are so glad they are leaving on this trip for fun and relaxation!! I'm hoping one day that Ed and I could do this trip, it is so beautiful in pictures!! Have a great time you crazy cruisers!

Go USC!

2009-01-01T10:48:00.000-08:00

Today is going to be a fun, relaxing day with snacks and USC football. Lois is coming over to hang out and celebrate the beginning of a New Year with us. We love watching the Rose Bowl each year escpecially when USC is playing. My sweet husband and Dad are USC Alumni's so SC football is a big deal around the house. Fight On USC!!

Christmas 2008

2008-12-26T18:34:00.001-08:00

Christmas Day

2008-12-26T09:36:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas and hope you all did too!! We started off the morning opening presents with the kids. Roberts favorite gift was a David Ortiz Jersey. Samantha's was a Samantha American Girl Doll. Michael's was a Lego Indiana Jones PlayStation game that was suppose to be here by the 24th but has not arrived yet - bummer!! Later in the day we went to my parents house and had a blast! We went in with my brothers and had given my parents a Wii, something they really wanted! So you know what was happening the entire time - family competitions! Dean and Carrie brought over the American Idol game for the Wii which was really fun for everyone. Ed wants to go professional for sure - Ha!! It was really a great Christmas Day!!

My Sweet Husband!

2008-12-24T17:40:00.000-08:00

Every Christmas Eve we spend at home and celebrate Christmas with Ed's mom, aka Granny. This year she is really sick and is not able to come over - we really miss her tonight. The tradition is that Ed cooks his World Famous Turkey Enchiladas. In keeping with tradition he is slaving away in the kitchen right now! No, they are not really world famous but they should be - they are soooo good!!! Thanks Ed for always working so hard at all you do to make life so nice for all of us!! Kisses!!

Hello Santa!

2008-12-24T17:31:00.000-08:00

This morning I took the kids to see Santa, I know a little late!! Robert is such a trooper to still go so I can have my picture!! Today was so funny Michael asked Santa for "a small knife" the look on Santa's face was hilarious!! (Michael was asking for a pocket knife.) Do you see Robert cracking up!!

Christmas Baking

2008-12-23T21:31:00.001-08:00

We love our family!

2008-12-23T20:29:00.000-08:00

John, Sue, J.R., Annika and Sonnet came into town for a week and we had so much fun. We love them so much and are so thankful for anytime we get with them! We wish they were still here, miss you guys!!

10 squished in a car for 8 - Shhhh!

2008-12-23T20:16:00.001-08:00

Christmas with Mark and Pam

2008-12-17T11:43:00.000-08:00

Sunday night we had our annual Christmas at Mark and Pam's beautiful house. It is always one of the highlights of the year!! There house is amazingly decorated, I call it the Grizwold's, and Pam's terrific cooking - it's always a perfect night!

2008-12-17T11:42:00.001-08:00

Winter Tournament

2008-12-17T11:16:00.001-08:00

Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Robert' travel ball team played in a tournament. They did really well and beat out one of the top teams around - Go Fury!! We were so proud of the boys but mostly Robert he really did great!

As for Ed and I - just keep the coffee coming!!

Playing catch up!

2008-12-17T11:04:00.000-08:00

Life has been so busy since my last post here are a few highlights
Michael's second grade class put on a program called "Christmas at the O.K.'Corral." It was really great and Michael was terrific. It was so much fun watching him perform with his classmates! .
Here's a picture of him sitting at his desk - what a cute kid!!

Hawaii

2008-12-17T11:02:00.001-08:00

Back to the Mainland

2008-12-10T21:50:00.000-08:00

Well, can I say fun or what - I had a blast!! It was so good to see Jen and the boys! We even got to talk to Chris via skype! He looked really good and should be coming home from Iraq in February - Yeah! Jen took us all over the place we went snorkeling in Hahauma Bay and Cherie saw a 300 lb. turtle - picture to follow! We also went to this beach called Lani Kai it was the most beautiful beach the sand was as soft as baby powder! We kayaked in a hammerhead shark breeding ground - thanks Jen for not saying anything until we were out of the water! Went to Duke's in Waikiki - yummy! It was the best trip, never a dull moment! Seeing the base life was so amazing, I felt very patriotic, people just stopped their cars when they played colors. Some of my favorite times were when we just hung out talking and laughing. Kyle and Derek are just the cutest and I had sweet moments of cuddling with them. Thanks for the fun times girlfriends!!

Aloha

2008-12-04T06:00:00.000-08:00

I'm leaving for Hawaii this morning! Cherie had this great idea of going to visit Jen in Hawaii for the Holidays. Jen is living in Hawaii on a Marine Base with her hubby and two adorable boys Derek and Kyle. Chris, Jen's hubby is in Iraq until February so Cherie found us great, cheap tickets so we could have a special Christmas time with Jen and the boys. I'm so excited to spend time with two of my closest friends and did I mention it's in Hawaii of all places!! These gals mean the world to me and I am so blessed to have them in my life.

I'm a proud Mama

2008-12-03T14:17:00.000-08:00

Today has been a day when outsiders have awarded two of my kids on there character. This morning Robert was awarded the Citizenship Award from his 6th grade teacher. Robert wins this award every year and I couldn't be prouder. This award is for being an exemplary student, always kind, helpful and respectful. To me this is the best award given at school because it speaks of their character! Tonight, Samantha is being awarded the Sportsmanship Trophy from AYSO. Her coach nominated her due to the fact that Sammie always came to practice and games with a positive, encouraging attitude towards her teammates and even those she played against. I am so proud of Robert and Samantha for being examples of good behavior and to have others take note of it. I don't want to leave out Michael because he is a super, terrific, wonderful kid too! His award is a big smooch from me:)!

Decorating for Christmas

2008-11-30T14:16:00.000-08:00

You would think we were moving with the amount of boxes we have spread all over the house, 17 in total and that's just decorations! We have a total of 5 Christmas trees, every room is transformed! I get this from my mom she would have the most festive house around. I loved growing up with these memories and love that Ed enjoys our house being completely transformed at Christmas time too. I am not nearly finished but hopefully I will be done by tomorrow. This is one of my favorite weekends of the year!! The kids love to help and it has become a fun family event with Christmas music playing and memories being shared!

2008-11-30T14:13:00.001-08:00

Sammies Birthday

2008-11-26T09:42:00.000-08:00

Sammie picked Red Robin for her birthday lunch, yummy!
Mor Mor, Papa, Amber, Bethanie and kids
Sammie with Mor Mor and Papa at church
Opening presents!!

Michael's Field Trip

2008-11-26T09:30:00.000-08:00

Last Friday I got to go on Michael's field trip to see the high school play Cinderella. I was so much fun just hanging out with him!! Michael is in second grade and his fifth grade buddy Ryan hung out with him the whole time! It was really sweet even though Michael had Ryan, Michael held my hand the whole time. I'm going to miss that when it stops!! Michael is so tender and loving he really melts my heart!

Wild Tigers Team Party

2008-11-26T09:00:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Samantha!!

2008-11-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

We can't believe our Sweet Samantha is 9 today! It feels like it was yesterday that you were born! You are a precious gift from the Lord and we are so thankful for you! You always bring such joy into our home and alot of pink - Hee-Hee! God has blessed you with a beautiful voice, a very smart mind and a sweet disposition. We love you so much and wish you the best birthday yet!!

Happy Birthday Grandma!!

2008-11-20T07:30:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Grandma!! Let's party, your 93 today! We love you tons!!

The Winslow's Wildlife Park

2008-11-19T12:38:00.000-08:00

This morning as I'm cooking breakfast Robert says look outside. Well, our sweet bobcats are back. About 8 months ago we had a bobcat mom and three cubs living in our backyard. They were so cute!! Only two come around anymore but they are now grown and are really beautiful!! Just now there was a beautiful hawk on our back fence, so I thought since they are all paying us a visit today I should blog about it. Since we have been living here we have always had a lot of wild life like rabbits, quail, hawks, raccoons, possums, coyotes, bobcats and of course a gigantic rattlesnake. I thought it would be fun to show you some pictures I've taken. Most have been taken though the glass so they aren't that great.

2008-11-19T12:31:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Mom!!

2008-11-18T08:55:00.000-08:00

We love you so much!! You're the best Mom, Mor Mor, and Friend in the whole world!!

2008-11-18T08:19:00.000-08:00

I had a great birthday last Sunday! Robert and Sammie both had games and they played terrific. Sammie scored an awesome goal - Yeah Sam!!! Robert had an over the fence right next to the foul pole - darn that wind!! His hit would have been a three point home run, instead he got a double with 2 RBI's - Yeah Rob!! To me that's the highlight of life seeing your kids faces beam!!

Birthday Week!!

2008-11-15T17:19:00.000-08:00

This week is a birthday week in our family, tomorrow is my birthday, Tuesday is my Mom's birthday, Thursday is my Grandma's Birthday and Sunday is Samantha's Birthday - Whoo - did you get that!! For my Mom's, Sammie's and my birthday I took them to see Wicked. I have wanted to see it for the longest time so, I decided that was what I wanted to do for my day. If any of you have not seen it yet GO SEE IT!!! I have seen almost every stage play yet and this was by far my favorite!! I laughed, I cried, it brought out every emotion!! It was so fun to have a girls night with two of my very favorite people!! One of the best parts of the evening was watching Samantha, I have never seen her enjoy something more - priceless!!

Pray for Connie!

2008-11-14T19:56:00.000-08:00

Today at school I was talking to my friend Wendy who use to be on the PTO with me and she also attends our church. She proceeded to tell me about her sister-in-law Connie who had a stroke two weeks ago. This blew me away because she is only 44 years old, a homeschooler to her kids (the youngest is only 18 months old). She cannot move anything below her neck. Please pray for this mom, her family and the doctors.

Procedure

2008-11-13T08:31:00.000-08:00

Procedure, don't you hate that word, well it's not in my top 10. Today I get to have a procedure done at the dentist (another one of my least favorite words - dentist). I don't think anyone really cares for the thought of having a procedure done, but we hope the outcome is worth it. Mine is really not a big deal, but I know of other procedures being done today and they are a huge deal!! So, I just want to encourage any of you reading to uphold your family & friends in prayer because you might not know what today holds for them. We can remind them Who is holding them!!

Fall Sports

2008-11-09T20:57:00.001-08:00

Our Weekend

2008-11-09T19:57:00.000-08:00

Our weeks and weekends are always packed with sporting events. This weekend was a little different because we added in a shopping spree for Samantha. It's Sam's 9th birthday coming up and all we have heard about since August is "I want an American Girl Doll." My Mom and I took her down Saturday, after her soccer game, for some early shopping. I had a 10% off coupon and you who know me well, know I love a bargain! Sammie was in awe of the store, it's 2 stories of dolls, it was heaven on earth. She had picked out the doll she wanted back in Sept. so this was huge for her! Ed and I let her have Emily early, we couldn't make her wait!! Now she has to wait for all the outfits/accessories to open on her birthday. That was a very fun and short (1 hour) shopping trip due to the fact that I had to get back to Santa Clarita for Roberts game. Note to self, take the baseball bag out of the car before you go shopping.

Emily enjoyed watching her first baseball game with Sammie.

Robert had a great game both yesterday and today!! Just so you know, he is doing great without his favorite bat. He still misses it but you would never know with how he's batting!!

Michael just wrapped up his first season playing flag football. I'll tell you he was born for this sport, he really loved it and was a natural at it! We had his team party today right after church and he received, the first for our household, a Football Trophy!! You go Michael!! We are so proud of Michael giving it his all in every game!! Here is a picture of Michael with his coach Mark Harris.

Happy Birthday Carrie!!

2008-11-07T15:31:00.000-08:00

How lucky am I to have you as a sister-in-law!! You are so much fun, I hope your day is terrific, just like you!! Lots of love being sent to you!! Boy, I wish we were at Senor Frogs right now!!

Pray for my Grandma

2008-11-07T14:40:00.000-08:00

Well, my Grandma has been in the hospital since yesterday due to Vertigo. She will be fine, but just thought I'd ask for prayer. She will be turning 93 in 13 days - WOW! So, being sick at her age is nothing to be taken lightly! We are going to visit her tonight after Sammies soccer practice, hopefully that will lift her spirits. I am so blessed to have my Grandma and I love her more than I can put into words.

For my hurting friend

2008-11-05T10:34:00.000-08:00

My sweet friend, you know who you are. I found this song "No one else knows" on playlist and thought I needed to share this with you. I know everyone has days where they are broken before the Lord. He wants us in this place for His good work in our lives. Remember, Trust Him, not your circumstances - He loves you and so do I!!

Wow!

2008-11-05T08:46:00.000-08:00

History has been made - Wow! Whether you were for Obama or against him, he is now going to be our president. I just am so thankful God is the ultimate controller of all things. Isn't it neat to see Gods plan in action! My personal opinion is we are seeing the beginning of Christ return and I am excited! Things for us as Americans might get better or much worse but like I said to my kids this morning "this world it not our home we are just passing though!!" Praise the Lord!!

God Bless America!

2008-11-04T07:05:00.000-08:00

Well, today is the day. I've had so many emotions leading up to this election scared, hopeful, frustrated to name a few. I have resigned to the fact that no matter who gets elected or which way certain propositions end - God is still God!! Even though this election is huge in my eyes, this is all part of God's plan. I just keep feeling sad because of how ungodly our country has become. Some of these propositions are so against God's design and yet to be for or against your called prejudice or ignorant. Being a Christian in America we have not been "persecuted" for our faith but it's slowly changing as we stand up for Godly statutes. I'll tell you though, great things that have come out of all the signs & commercials as it has given Ed and I great opportunities to talk to our kids about knowing what the bible says about these issues. A couple years ago I never dreamed that I'd be talking to my kids about these topics, but I'm thankful for this now. I want my kids to know that the bible has ALL the answers and instruction for our lives. So all that said, I'm going to go vote now! God Bless America!!

Happy Anniversary Sue & John

2008-11-03T09:09:00.000-08:00

We just want to wish you a very Happy Anniversary!! You guys are such a great example to us!! We are so thankful for you and your love for eachother! We love you so much!!

"I have bad breath!"

2008-11-02T14:56:00.000-08:00

Last night we went out to dinner with my Mom, Dad and Grandma. My parents had just arrived home from a 10 day cruise - lucky them! So, we had to do a lot of chit chat to catch up on what they had done and vise-versa. As conversations are going Samantha starts rummaging though my bag. She pulls out this lip gloss I have and asked if she could use it. I say yes then my mom said "what is that" because the gloss is in a miniature toothpaste looking tube. I proceed to tell her about this great lip gloss I got at Bath & Body Works it glosses your lips but at the same time is disguises your breath (just in case) because it has a strong minty smell. Michael (7 years old) who is very confident, outspoken and has no problem announcing things proceeded to say in a loud voice, "Mom, I have bad breath, can I have some lip gloss?" Well his announcement gave those dinning in the restaurant quite a chuckle. I love when little kids speak truth! Michael always makes us laugh and we are truly thankful he is ours!

Everyone's Hero

2008-11-01T22:30:00.000-07:00

Have you watched the movie Everyone's Hero? In the movie Babe Ruth named his bat Darlin'. Well Darlin' was a great bat and would go down in history. Was she going down in history because of great things she did? If you watch the movie - Babe Ruth says it's the person behind the bat that made her so special. Well, why am I telling you about Darlin'? Robert has such a bat, he loves this bat, he has not named it but it is special. Trust me, this bat better be special due to how much it cost! From the time we got this bat for Robert something happened - Kaboom!! The ball flew like it was shot out of a canon. This has become "The Bat." Well this week we have been dealing with a very painful loss for Robert.

This is the beloved bat. A genuine Louisville Slugger TPX Catalyst Big Barrel.

No really look closer...

Can you say crack!! We had tears over the loss of this bat, come on, to an eleven year old this is huge!! Especially when we can't replace it - did I mention - very expensive bat!! So we have been reminding Robert daily that it's not the bat but it's the person swinging the bat! We have two club games Sunday afternoon so I'll keep you posted on the very wonderful person swinging "a bat."

Happy Halloween

2008-11-01T10:39:00.000-07:00

Crazy Coconut

2008-10-20T08:17:00.000-07:00

For the past year, maybe two, the kids have asked if they could get a coconut. I kept saying, "No, it's a waste of money and you really won't like it anyway." Well yesterday was the day. We bought one after church, looked up on the internet on how to open it and wha-la it opened! The kids were so excited as Ed opened it up, Ed proceeded to cut out the coconut so they could eat it. Well, the kids were so grossed out, it was hysterical!! They made the funniest faces as they were trying to get the taste out of there mouths. It was a good laugh for Ed and I, so 2.99 for the coconut was worth it!

Go Boston!!!!

2008-10-19T12:38:00.000-07:00

Robert got this hat for christmas last year as you can see this hat is glued to his head. He only takes it off when he has to wear his team hats (2) at his games. He is a true fan, so you know what we will be doing tonight - watching Boston win (we hope)!!

Fun With Our Cousins Sept 2008

2008-10-18T15:02:00.001-07:00