MELANIE AND JOE

Calvin, Older Pics

2011-05-06T23:08:00.001-07:00

Here are a few pics to catch up on the last here. these are the oldest pics. he looks so small here. these are some of my favorites

On grandpa's tractor

getting into the powder. found him like this. i wasn't too happy

his new big boy race car bed

mom, i can do it myself!!!

Penelope Alynn, Older Pics

2011-05-06T22:49:00.002-07:00

Since I haven't been blogging, I thought I'd go back in time a little and show off my baby girl. Here are a few pics from the many I have to show you how cute she is.

Here she is with her Great Great Grandma Myrtle

MAJOR Catching UP

2011-05-06T22:40:00.000-07:00

Well, I've been away from blogland for quite some time, almost a year. I have to admit, I wasn't sure if I wanted to start blogging again, but life is good and I want to share. I stepped out for quite some time. I have to say, I'm pretty sure that this was the most difficult, soul searching, inner peace finding, heart wrenching, crazy year of my life. And I am happy to say I am a better person for it. But without all the icky details, I have a lot of catching up to do. The biggest and best news of all is the birth of our daughter, Penelope. She is beautiful and so sweet. I adore her. She was born last August and the time is flying by so fast. Mister Calvin just turned two. He's absolutely hilarious. He's of course in the terrible two stage and I want to pull out my hair about every 5 seconds. But when he's not busy driving me crazy, he loves to play with leggos, cars and anything (i mean anything) with buttons or cords. He's a couch hurdler, and loves to play outside,especially with the hose (did i mention the cord thing?) both my kids are what I live for. Joe is still at Luke AFB. We are planning on moving back to California to live with my folks next month while Joe goes and serves a year long tour in Korea. And if all goes according to plan, Italy will be our next destination. Okay, so much has happened. And now for the fun. Pictures in my next post to high light the past year.

COUPONS

2010-06-17T14:29:00.000-07:00

So, a lot of people have been telling me how they have been saving with coupons. I thought it was a great idea. So, I ordered the Sunday paper to get all the coupons, plus I've collected some from my favorite websites and at the grocery store. Today was my first attempt. I thought I did pretty good for shopping at the commissary on base. I would have originally spent $72.29 without the coupons (sad because it doesn't even look like that much). But I only spent $44.06!. That is a 39% savings. Now, there is a large bag of dogfood and a gallon of whole milk missing from this photo. And, I normally don't buy all this stuff at once, like all of the air fresheners. But what I am learning is that you stock up! I plan to go to Fry's Market and get their VIP card. I think I will be able to save even more there because they have more sales than the commissary. Hopefully next time I can save even more! It is kinda fun going through the isles with your coupons and seeing how much you are going to save! If anyone has any tips for me, I'd love to hear about them!

SPLASHING AROUND

2010-06-05T22:16:00.000-07:00

my friend alyssa and i took our kids to this little splash fountain area in this shopping/movie/arena area. i saw it last summer when we went down there but calvin was too small. so i was so excited to take him. he LOVES the water and even though the fountains splashed up in his face, he loved that too. i'm so glad he enjoyed it. i enjoyed just watching him and the excitement on his face. here are a few pics of our afternoon.

CALIFORNIA

2010-06-02T23:01:00.000-07:00

So we had a wonderful time in california last month. it was quite a busy week. we got into town on friday morning. saturday we took a trip to san francisco to visit joe's sister, rachel. it was a fun day. we started down at the pier, walked around. looked at sea lions, took a ride on the carrousel and then went to ghiradelli's square where i ate the most delicious of cupcakes.

we then went back to rachel's place for presents and a brownie cake. one of the presents was this awesome bubble blower. i think checkers enjoyed it more than calvin. it was a lot of fun. thank rachel.

then we went to the beach with calvin and that was a lot of fun. it was his first time there. he ate a lot of sand. dad let him get wet in the waves. he loved every minute of it.

i also got to visit with some friends this week. thursday was wendy's baby shower. that was a great turn out. friday we headed to the park with joe's folks. calvin loved the tunnel and the swings. but mostly he loved to pick up leaves off of the ground and any garbage he could find.

i got a surprise that becky was coming up with litty maddy. it was fun to see her with calvin. they did pretty good together but they both liked this giant toothbrush. so we had to let them take turns.

here's a cute picture with calvin and my dad. we went to d'boni's for pizza with my family and my grandpa. don't they look so cute in their hawaiian shirts. my dad took calvin out to see all of the old cars in the parking lot. they were having autumn cruise night at the plaza.

joe's mom gave joe a bag of clothes from when he was little. here is one of his outfits. it's so dang cute on calvin. what a little 80's man in his little shorts and tank top!

saturday we had calvin's first birthday party. it was a lot of fun and quite a few friends and family came to celebrate it with him. he enjoyed all of the people. when it came time to opening up his gifts he could care less and just walked around with the balloons in his hands. it was cute.

here he is eating his yummy cake. it was a mickey mouse cake (his favorite cartoon). he got most of it on the floor and all over himself. boy did he like it!

well, that's a quick recap of the great week we had. i am hoping to get lots of pictures from everyone else that was there this past week. i was so busy having fun that i didn't take as many pictures as i wanted. so hopefully there will be more to come in the future. but i did have a great time and was so nice to see everyone again. hopefully we'll get to come back soon.

BIRTHDAY BOY

2010-04-28T09:29:00.000-07:00

Calvin turned the big 1 yesterday. I can't believe how fast he is growing. We had a great time watching him eat his first birthday cake. I might add he definitely takes after me. He sure does have a sweet tooth. Here are some fun facts about Calvin.
1. He loves to feed the dog his food. He thinks it's the funniest thing in the world.
2. His favorite game is playing peek-a-boo with his dad
3. His favorite toy is the remote control for the tv. We tried buying him a toy one, but it just isn't the same i guess
4. He can say "mama" "dada" "baba" and now he says "cha cha". that is what he calls our dog, checkers
5. he thinks he's superman and just flies off the couch (getting hurt of course)
6. he loves bath time.
7. he loves our dog and loves to jump on him
8. he has learned how to pinch (which i do not like one bit)
9. when he laughs it's like he can't breathe and tries to suck in a lot of air. it's so cute
10. his favorite cartoon is mickey mouse. he loves the songs and loves to dance to them in the mornings.

his one year pictures

getting ready to eat some yummy cake

it was soooo good. he would have eaten the whole cake if we had let him. love you buddy. Happy birthday!!!

CRICUT CAKE

2010-04-12T21:49:00.000-07:00

Ahhhhhh! You won't believe what I've just discovered!!! It's a cake decorating made by the company Cricut. Yes, this machine will actually cut out your gumpaste (fondant-like dough) into different font words, pictures, so many coooooool things. I'm in love with this new machine. Too bad it costs way toooooo much. Very fun idea though.

CAKES BY MELANIE

2010-04-05T22:26:00.000-07:00

So I decided to create a blog with all of the cakes I have made and also include some fun ideas I have found that I would like to use one day. I also plan on adding cake and cookie decorating tips for all of those who would like to learn a bit more about cake decorating. Check it out. It's www.cakesmelanie.blogspot.com.

EASTER EGGS

2010-04-01T16:42:00.000-07:00

We went over to a friend's house today to dye some Easter eggs. Unfortunately my son was mr. grouchy after his nap. So I got one sticker on one egg. and then the fits began. poor guy. well, it was fun to attempt. hopefully next year will be a bit more successful!

PENELOPE ALYNN

2010-03-30T11:34:00.000-07:00

We had our ultrasound today and we found out we are having a little girl. Joe was right. I was pretty sure it was going to be a boy again. We are super excited and can't wait to meet our little princess!!!!

Comin' to Cali

2010-03-19T21:05:00.000-07:00

Okay, just a heads up!!! We're coming to California in May. We should get there on the 7th and be there until the 16th. Planning on having a b-day party for calvin while we're there so I'll keep you informed about that. can't wait to see everyone. keep your schedules open friends!!!

WALKING!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-02-25T14:35:00.000-08:00

My baby is walking!!!! I can't believe it. It's so cute to watch him go. He's doing really well and walks all over the house. He took a few steps the other day and since then he's just mastering it. I love him and so excited to see him grow up!

5 YEARS

2010-02-12T21:13:00.000-08:00

So, I've been really bad at blogging lately. I'll blame it on the pregnancy because it makes me lazy. BUUUUTTTTT, I can't not write about my husband and the fact that we have been married for 5 YEARS! I can't believe how fast the time has flown by. I really wanted todo something nice for our 5 year mark. However with moving all weekend it just didn't work out. So we waited until the next day. I worked all that day, so we just headed out to a fabulous sea food dinner and ate to our hearts content. Shrimp, lobster, crab an much much more. No pictures were taken (again blaming pregancy brain). So, instead I thought I'd reflect on the past five years....Joe and I were sealed in the Oakland Temple on Feb 5 2005. We moved to Gilroy where Joe got hired at his uncle's machine shop. I got the glamorous job at In n Out burger and BBB. After a year, we moved back home to escalon. Joe worked at Hogan manufacturing and I workd at DBoni's pizza. We lived there for 3 years. Now, joe is in the airforce, we've moved to Arizona and have one amazing little boy calvin and one on the way. Together we've been sky diving, camped and hiked, gone for drives on streets we had no idea where we were going and didn't care where we ended up. We've lived in 6 different houses, owned 3 different cars, 3 motorcycles (yes crashed 2 of them), had 2 dogs. i've had 5 jobs, joe has had 6. it's been a crazy 5 years and after each one i wonder why time has to fly by so fast. I love being married to my best friend. I can't wait for him to get home every day. And I am so happy to spend many many years to come with him. Happy Anniversary honey.

playtime gone awry

2010-02-11T13:26:00.000-08:00

So, yesterday, I was at our old house doing some last minute cleaning because we have to be completely gone from there by friday. I had to bring Calvin with me. I put up a baby gate in his old room and threw in some toys to keep him occupied. I was going along doing my thing when it got just a little too quite. I peaked around the corner to see why..........

.....yeah. word of advice.....never leave the diaper bag around with a can of formula in it. I wasn't even thinking he could get into it. And to make it even funnier, he acted like what he had done was perfectly fine, almost like he was expecting me to join in the fun. Oh, Calvin, you make me laugh!!!!!

THANKSGIVING

2009-12-22T14:16:00.000-08:00

So, I forgot to post our Thanksgiving happenings. The McGowens, a family here on base, invited Joe and I to come over for dinner. Alyssa and I split the menu. Just want to add, I think we did a prett good job considering it was our first Thanksgiving meal we had to make. It was a fun day and am grateful for friends to share a fabulous day with.

MOVING.....

2009-12-08T21:37:00.000-08:00

DRUMROLL PLEASE...........JOE GOT AN EMAIL FROM THE AIRFORCE YESTERDAY. APPARENTLY WE ARE MOVING TO........................................................................................

SPANGDAHLEM AFB IN GERMANY. THAT'S RIGHT FOLKS.....GERMANY!!! ALL I CAN SAY IS WOOOOHOOOOO! SO EXCITED. IT IS VERY UNEXPECTED. ALL I KNOW FOR NOW IS WE ARE SUPPOSED TO LEAVE APRIL 1ST. WOW. I THOUGHT WE WOULD BE HERE A WHILE. PEOPLE WHO COME TO LUKE AFB END UP STAYING HERE QUITE A WHILE. BUT HERE'S THE SCOOP...

JOE IS A CREW CHIEF ON THE F-16 FIGHTER JET. THIS PARTICULAR JET IS BEING PHASED OUT BY THE NEW F-35. THEY ARE GETTING RID OF QUITE A FEW AIRCRAFT HERE AND THAT MEANS JOE WON'T HAVE PLANES HERE TO WORK ON. THEY ARE JUST BRINGING NEW GUYS IN STRAIGHT FROM TECH SCHOOL WHO ARE LEARNING ON THE F-35. THAT MEANS THEY NEED TO SEND US SOMEWHERE WHERE HE CAN STILL WORK ON THE F-16......................AND I GUESS THAT MEANS GERMANY FOR NOW. DON'T KNOW THE DETAILS. DON'T KNOW FOR HOW LONG. BUT I REALLY HOPE IT HAPPENS THIS TIME. WE DEFINITELY HAVE HIGHER HOPES. HE ALREADY GOT CHECKLISTS AND PAPERWORK TO START. YAY!!!!!

2009-11-28T22:53:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

CRAWLING

2009-11-16T20:15:00.000-08:00

CALVIN IS OFFICIALLY A CRAWLING MACHINE. Here is a video of his first attempts. Pretty good I say!!! Love you buddy!!!

MORE OF CALVIN

2009-11-09T19:17:00.000-08:00

Some more of my favorite guy. He's so much fun. I love taking pictures of him.

I LOVE YOU, LUANN

2009-11-05T19:46:00.000-08:00

This is not a happy post. I don't know if anyone who reads this post knows a woman by the name of Luann Barton. She is a lady I've known since I was sixteen. We worked together at D'boni's Pizza. She has been battling with pancreatic cancer for the past six months. Yesterday I got the news that she is not doing well. Then I just found out she may not make it through the night. She may never read this and now I most likely won't get the chance to talk to her again. But I just want some people to know how amazing she is. This woman has had a hard life. She got pregnant when she was young, moved cross country from New York with nothing. She's had hard times left and right, trying to raise two boys who have not been very easy to raise. She's always worked like a dog trying to make ends meet as a single mom. Living a hard life, she's pretty rough around the edges...doesn't let many people in to her personal life. But, I've worked with her for so long. She is an amazing person. If ever you needed to talk to anyone or needed some help, she was there. She has a great laugh and is quite a funny lady. She always had the dream of taking a cruise around Italy. Always working for her boys, she's never really taken a day off. Sometimes, you could see how tired she was, but she always keeps fighting. And even though I can't talk to her because she isn't even conscious right now, I just need for her to know that so many people love her. And my heart breaks that I won't get the chance to say goodbye. It just makes you realize how important it is to tell those you love how you feel. To not let dumb things make you forget how fortunate you are and how blessed your life really is. So, I hope to never forget, and to all of you who read this, I love you and hope you take the chance today to tell those around you how you feel too.

HALLOWEEN

2009-11-01T14:30:00.000-08:00

Halloween turned out to be a great day. We met over at our friend's house to barbecue and go trick or treating. Our friend Jessica came over too. We went around a few blocks so the "kids" could get their baskets full of candy. Calvin did good for about a half hour then, it was around his bed time, so he decided he'd rather ride around in the stroller for most of the evening. After trick or treating, we came back, ate some yummy burgers (way to go hun) and watched New In Town. Overall, a great success.

Lilly as Red Riding Hood, Calvin the Giraffe, Wyatt as an Air Force Pilot, and Faith as the Sheep.

LOVE the tail!!!!

Wyatt is 3 and had a blast getting his bucket full of candy. good job Wyatt

Calvin had no problem getting his own treats!!!!!!!!!

Our friends Jessica and Faith

Calvin with his trick or treat bag that his grandma Archuleta made for him. It's decorated on one side, but we didn't manange to get it on film.

Some neighbors dressed up pretty great while they handed out their candy. Here is calvin with one of our favorites. Pretty scary!!!

Calvin's only taste of candy....a few licks of a sucker. Might I mention he wanted to keep eating it.

The kids got pretty worn out after a while. Little Faith fell asleep in Shane's arms.

Joe is so fun!!! He loves to put Calvin on his shoulders. Calvin loves it too.

6 MONTHS OLD

2009-10-28T10:34:00.000-07:00

My little buddy is six months old. I can't believe it!!! He is doing some pretty amazing things now. He is always full of big smiles and loves to squeel and laugh. He sits up without support now. His new big thing is getting on his hands and knees and rocking back and forth. No teeth yet, no big babbles. But he is one healthy happy baby boy. We went to the doctor's today and he weighs in at a whopping 18.1 pounds. He's 26.5 inches long. short and chubby. My perfect baby!!! He did really good today with his immunizations too. Only cried for a minute, then passed out the second we got home.

FABULOUS FRIDAY

2009-10-23T21:55:00.000-07:00

Tonight was FABULOUS FRIDAY. I brought my friend, Alyssa, to the enrichment craft night. We had a great time and made some great things for the home.

These were cardboard letters painted black. Used scrapbook paper for the front. Used sand paper to age them a little and coated them with decopage (spelling?). Added a few spooky touches and voilla!

These were different size blocks of wood, sanded at the edges, painted, sanded again to give it an aged look, then used vinyl letteres to spell out the words.

This was the easiest project I did. Got a black frame, a black and white photo, and a copy of the Proclamation to the World on vellum. It was such a great idea. LOVE it!!!

And this was my last project of the night. Easy peasy!!! Different colors of scrapbook paper arranged just so. Add some vinyl letters and some cute ribbon and you're done. Got a dry erase marker also to complete the project.

Glad I went. Got to talk to some ladies at chuch that I don't usually talk too. A great missionary moment with my friend Alyssa. And some great treasures to boot!!!! I can be quite crafty when I copy what someone else did!!!

ORDERS!!!

2009-10-23T14:30:00.001-07:00

I'm really excited. Got my first wedding cake order today. It's for a girl I work with. It's a four-tier fondant covered cake with swags and flowers. Also doing her favors...sugar cookies with chocolate on top decorated with chocolate transfer sheets. It's not until march so no pictures any time soon. Just excited to get creative again!!

PICKIN' PUNKINS

2009-10-20T21:11:00.001-07:00

Today Joe and I decided to take Calvin to a local pumpkin patch to pick out some fun pumpkins to carve. Calvin did a great job helping us pick out the perfect ones! We got a big one for Joe, a smaller one for me and a baby one for Calvin. Here are a few pictures of Calvin enjoying the day.

FAMILY PORTRAITS

2009-10-09T21:26:00.000-07:00

We had family portraits taken when we went back to visit everyone in August. Here are a few of the poses I got. Sorry they aren't the best quality. We don't have a printer/scanner yet so I had to take pictures of my pictures.

The family picture...
Joe and I. Now that I look at it more, I'm dissapointed you can't see more of Joe's face.

The whole Archuleta Clan

Mister Calvin. 3 1/2 months old

Three generations of Archuleta men

The grandparents and the grandbabies. I love calvin's expression in this one

GRAND CANYON

2009-10-09T15:45:00.000-07:00

Joe and I took Calvin up to the Grand Canyon last weekend. We woke up about 5 in the morning and got on the road about 6:30. It's about a 4 hour drive so we wanted to leave early so we could spend the whole day there. As we began our trip, the clouds starting rolling in. And when it storms here, it STORMS! I was really nervous about how the weather was going to be. When we got about half way, we stopped for gas and the wind was blowing so hard. I had checked the weather report the day before and was not expecting this kind of weather. Good thing we dressed appropriately. We got to the Grand Canyon about 10:30. We stopped by the visitor's center to check out where we should go.

After that, we walked along the trail and looked at the amazing view. Wind and all, it was a spectacular view. Words can't really describe what you see, except maybe GRAND.
The colors of the different layers of rock are so distinct. And to see how tiny the Colorado River is below is absolutely breathtaking. It was so neat to watch the birds soar in the wide open spaces with nothing in their way. We learned about the native americans that lived there in centuries past. Over all a wonderful day despite the million mile an hour winds.

Calvin had a great time. It was really fun to see him interact with objects at the gift shop. He liked the wind for the most part and it was his first time having to wear a sweat shirt. Brrr, it was pretty chilly there.

He fell asleep with his hoody over his face. It was pretty windy by the trail and it was blowing up sand. So cute.

Some of the amazing views we got to experience. Pictures just don't do it justice.

Calvin, you are so cute, even with your silly faces. And you sure do love your daddy.

Daniel Boone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He really didn't apreciate this too much as you can see by his expression. But cute none the less. What a good sport.

Joe at the top of the stone tower at the east end of the canyon.

Another great view among the trees.

Okay this was sooooo cool. There were signs posted up everywhere about deer and moose. But I never actually expected to see any. As we were heading out of the park at the end of the day, there were a bunch of cars parked along side the road and a lot of people to one side taking pictures. At first I thought, the grand canyon is not over here. What on earth are they taking pictures of and what is so great that they have to practically block the road? Well, this is why!!! I made Joe do an illegal u turn and I jumped out of my car to
catch this amazing moment on film. There were so many moose. I couldn't believe how calm they were just grazing on the grass. We got pretty close. Such a wonderful sight and a perfect way to end the day. Afterwards, Joe took us to Prescott where we stopped in at a restaurant to eat a great dinner. Then we headed home. We were so tired from our adventures that we went straight to bed. Great Day, Wonderful Memories

CALVIN'S FIRST BIG LAUGH

2009-10-05T12:25:00.000-07:00

JOY IN PURPLE

2009-10-02T17:34:00.000-07:00

Now, I know you aren't supposed to really find joy in material things. But I have to say, this hand bag that I bought today sure did make me giddy. I LOVE IT. Very cute and very bright. Just the right kind of punch to spice up an outfit. I don't buy many things for myself lately because, well, the budget just doesn't allow for it. But I couldn't pass it up. I was at Lane Bryant today with a friend. Just checking out what they had because I had a coupon if you bought $50 worth of stuff, you get $25 off. Soooo, not only did I get this great bag, I also got a cute pair of earings for LESS than what the bag was originally worth. Got to love great deals.

MY LITTLE STUD

2009-09-29T11:31:00.001-07:00

So, Joe was taking Calvin for a walk while I was working on Saturday. He finally fits into his little sunglasses. He looks so stinking cute here. I think he actually knows how cute he is. Just look at his little expression!!

ENRICHMENT NIGHT FUN

2009-09-24T21:51:00.000-07:00

So, I just got back from enrichment night a little while ago. It was a lot of fun. First however, I got way lost. I tried using my GPS. It works most of the time, but this time it sent me on a wild goose chase about 15 minutes out of the way. I finally called the RS president because it was going to be at her home. Come to find out, it was right around the corner from the base. Oh, well, got to see part of Arizona that I never saw before. After arriving 30 minutes late (I hate being late by the way), I got to try some amazing food. It was a holiday pot luck. Bring a treat and the recipe. Fun for all!!! After stuffing my face full of goodies, we learned about how to get organized for the holidays to make it go a lot smoother. Learned some great tips, found out how to by gifts DIRT CHEAP, and laughed with some fun ladies. Had a great time and glad I got to go. Now I can't wait for Super Saturday (actually Fabulous Friday now). I love being crafty! I envited my friend and she is super excited to go. I am sad I will miss the RS General Broadcast. Have to work until 6 so I will miss it. Maybe it will come on the BYU channel and I can record it. I am so blessed to be in a great ward here. It's good for our family and it is bringing the Spirit more into our home.

ALL IS GREAT

2009-09-22T11:36:00.000-07:00

So, just a quick post. Not a whole lot of news going on here in Arizona. Just want to say how happy I am. We are doing great. Joe just got asked to work on the 56th fighter wing jet. basically that is the commander's jet. So excited for him. He is working on his CDC's which are a bunch of tests he has to take to move up in his job. He is doing good and only has 2 more to go. As for me, still working at BBB. They have offered me more hours. I'm now up to about 30 hours a week. More than I originally wanted, but I am figuring I better take it now, because you never know what life brings. I like it a lot. The people I work with are nice. Getting excited about the holidays. We are spending all of them here in Arizona. It will be fun to have our own little traditions to begin. I plan on coming to California in January with Calvin. Speaking of that little guy, he is so cute and fun. He rolls over constantly and is beginning to laugh. I love it so much. Ok, so like I said, not a whole lot of news, but everything is going so well for us right now.

CARROTS

2009-09-11T19:28:00.000-07:00

4 MONTH STATS

2009-09-03T12:50:00.000-07:00

Calvin had his 4 month check up today. He is a healthy happy baby boy and is doing great. He even endured the shots pretty well. He is 16.3 pounds (80th percentile) and 25 inches long (55th percentile).

CALVIN 4 MONTHS

2009-08-31T13:11:00.000-07:00

My baby is getting so big. He is 4 months old now and can do many awesome things. He can roll over from his back to his tummy. He can sit up with a little bit of help. He loves to stick his whole fist in his mouth. He loves to bite on his fingers. He is beginning to eat solid foods now and doing a really good job. He has begun to mimmick your expression (if you stick your tongue out, he sometimes does the same). He loves to look at himself in the mirror. He loves to be surprised. He likes it when you blow in his face. He scooted backward on his tummy today for the first time. He has a new walker and loves to sit in it. He can go forward and backward sometimes. He LOVES to scream. That has to be the new favorite. He has definitely found his voice. Joe gave him his first hair cut the other day. He is losing his hair in the back and it was still so long in front. Now he looks so cute. Like a little boy. I think he is beginning to teeth a bit, so here we go!!!!!

He is looking at Joe in this picture and copying Joe by sticking out his tongue

He graduated to a big boy tub from the smaller mesh one we had before. He loves to splash the water

His new "jeep" He looks so excited here.

BEEP! BEEP! Watch out here I come!!!

He is surprised here when Joe was blowing in his face. He loves this

He loves to reach for his toes now

Here he is rolling from his back to his tummy

Sitting up on his hands

Falling over after sitting up for a second

Again with the legs and feet.

FIRST ATTEMPTS AT FOOD

2009-08-31T13:03:00.000-07:00

Calvin has been acting like he is ready to try some solid foods. I wasn't planning on starting him this early, but his bottle doesn't seem to be doing the trick these days. Plus he's eyeing us while we eat. Pretty cute. So a few days a go, before we came to California, we tried to give him a few bites of rice cereal. He did okay. He did good with the spoon, but he wasn't really liking the texture I think. So, we waited until we got back to Arizona. Now he loves it. He's a pretty messy eater and loves to stick his hand in his mouth between spoonfuls.

Here is Calvin with his first attempts at food

These are the most recent pictures. You can't tell by the picture, but he does actually eat more than is on his face!!

I love the awesome pink bib. Hey, it was clean!

A GREAT WEEKEND

2009-08-27T16:25:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, Joe, Calvin and I drove up to Escalon to be with friends and family. It was an easy drive when we left on Wednesday night. We chose to drive through the night in hopes that Calvin would sleep most of the way. And he did. He was such a good baby. We only had to stop a few times for gas and once to feed him. It took us 12 hours to get there. We arrived at my parent's house around 8:45. My mom was there to great us. It was so much fun to see her with Calvin. He looks so much different from the last time anyone saw him. Later that afternoon after a much needed nap, we visited the Archuleta's for a few hours. Friday was fun. Calvin and I went to go visit his grandmothers. We first visited his great grandma Schuler. Then it was off to see his GREAT GREAT grandma King. I am so glad we got to visit with them. They are both neat ladies. Friday night we ate at D'boni's with my Grandpa, cousins, and family. That was such a great night. Just like old times. Saturday, the Archuleta family decided to get portraits taken. It's not very often that we are all together anymore. Rachel lives in San Francisco and Becky and her family live in LA. So, we took the opportunity to take some family photos and they turned out great. Sunday was a very special day. Calvin and his cousin, Madalynn, were blessed. it was very special. His grandpa Archuleta blessed him. And it was very nice because my parents came to the blessing as well. We are so blessed to have such a wonderful and supportive family. Calvin, we are also blessed to have you in our lives. We had a Sunday bbq at the archuleta's afterwards and just spent the afternoon together. Monday I got to see some friends. Had lunch with Misty, Lorilee and Tami at Cancun Restaurant. I love them alot. They are great friends and it was just like old times. Later, my friend Heather came over with her son Nolan. It was such a great day visiting with friends. Then, sadly, Tuesday we left to come back to Arizona. We were hoping calvin would do just as good on the way back. and he did!!! we have such a calm baby. the only adventure of the day was shredding a tire on the trailer we were using to haul Joe's motorcycle. It was not so fun to stop on the side of the freeway with a baby when it was almost getting dark. luckily the spare tire to our car fit well enough to the trailer. i called a tire place that said they would remain open for us to get the new tire. Lesson learned....keep a spare!!! I was just talking to Joe about an hour before that happened that we needed to get a spare for the trailer. But everything turned out ok. However, our 12 hour drive turned into a 16 hour trek. We got home about 1 am. Now we're getting back to our routine and missing everyone like crazy. I hope we are able to go back home pretty often. It was such a great weekend.

Tami, Me, Misty and Lorilee at Cancun Restaurant Sweet little Madalynn. She is so petite and cute!!!

My parents with Calvin. they are so fun to watch with him.

Grandma Archuleta with Calvin.

Cute profile of Calvin

Grandpa Schuler with Calvin

Grandpa Archuleta with Calvin. they are "super buddies"

Us on Calvin's blessing day

I am so glad my parents came to calvin's blessing

My two handsome men

My cousin Staci and her son Alex at D'boni's

Having fun at the mall after the family photos

It's such a cute photo.

calvin with his GREAT GREAT grandma King

Calvin with his great grandma Schuler

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LORILEE

2009-08-14T00:20:00.000-07:00

Lorilee's birthday is today. I am so glad she is my friend. She is an amazing lady. I think she is a wonderful primary president, and great mom and wife and a true friend. She's the type of person that will stop what they are doing to help you. In fact she took me to the ER around midnight a while back because I was home alone. She didn't even hesitate. She's one of the funniest people I know. Her sacrastic wit will make anyone laugh and she loves to quote movie lines. She is a lot of fun to be around. I look up to her in many ways. She's been there for me when I really needed an ear to listen and advice given. I miss her a lot and I just want her to know that I love her and that she is definitely an eternal friend. And even though we don't live close by anymore, I think of her often and hope she has a wonderful birthday.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LORILEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

MONSOON SEASON ARRIVES....

2009-08-13T14:31:00.000-07:00

So, Arizona is known to have some crazy weather. I've heard about the monsoons, but never really experienced one....that is, until last night. I was driving home from work, and right as I pulled into the security gate here on base, a bunch of lightening starts flashing in the sky. Within seconds, a downpour begins. Not only was I driving in this monster, I was also parinoid because I thought Joe and Calvin might be out in this storm. Joe had arrived at the baby sitter's a few minutes earlier to pick up Calvin. They live on base too, but several blocks away from our house. So, driving blind (because the rain was so heavy and practically sideways because of the wind), I'm driving towards their house to see if they were stuck out in the rain while walking home. I couldn't find them, so I went to our house. The light was on but nobody was home. Just then lightening practically struck in our back yard. Very scary. Finally Joe called as I was about to get in the car again to go looking for them. They were safe, thank goodness, just a little wet. Our friend was driving them home. When we got back in the house, we realized our floor in our kitchen was flooded. The weather stripping on our back door is not so great. So, it got our laundry room and kitchen floors all wet. Needless to say, we will be getting that fixed in the next few days. All night long, thunder and lightening kept us up. It was INSANE. It is great to have the moisture. It's not so great to have 100 plus temperatures and the humidity. Oh well, welcome to life in the desert.

YUMMY

2009-08-12T15:45:00.000-07:00

So, I've been trying new recipes out lately. I came across this one a few months back. Joe and I really like it and the best part is, it's pretty healthy. So, I thought I'd share because we can all use a bit of a change now and then.

SPICY ORANGE BEEF WITH VEGETABLES
4 servings, but i usually double it because it's yummy.

3/4 pound beef top round, cut into thin strips (i just buy whatever thin cheap steaks are out there, the thinner the better)
2 Tbsp. cornstarch, divided
2 tsp. orange rind, finely chopped
1/2 c. beef broth
1/4 c. orange juice
2 Tbsp. reduced sodium soy sauce
1 Tbsp. sugar
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
4 tsp. canola oil
1 tsp. ground ginger or 1 Tbsp. fresh grated ginger
1/4 pound green beans, cut in bite-size pieces
1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into thin strips
1 carrot, cut into thin strips (I just grate it for sake of time)

Combine beef, 1 Tbsp of cornstarch and orange rind in bowl. toss well to coat and set aside. Combine remaining cornstarch, broth, orange juice, soy sauce, sugar and chili flakes in small bowl. set aside. heat nonstick deep skillet. add 2 Tbsp of oil. stir-fry beef until cooked through (about 2-3 minutes). transfer to a plate. add remaining oil to skillet and add all of the vegetables and ginger. cook until done5-7 minutes. add the broth mixture and cook, stirring constantly until mixture boils and thickens, about 1 minute. add the beef back to the skillet and cook about 1 more minutes. this dish is GREAT over white rice.

if anyone tries it let me know how they liked it

1 cup serving: 227 calories, 8 g. fat, 2 g . saturated fat 16 g. carbs, 2 g. fiber, 22 g. protien. this is without the rice.

PICTURES

2009-08-11T13:58:00.000-07:00

I just can't get enough of this little guy. He's so much fun. He's starting to show his personality and it is so cute. He is a happy baby boy who rarely ever fusses. But on those rare occassions, I get to hear his scream and other fun noises. He is getting so big. Here are a few fun pictures from the past few weeks.

He has the funnest time when we change his diaper. That is usually when he is the most talkative for some reason.

It is so fun to watch him grab for toys. He doesn't always hit his target, but he is doing great.

I think this is my favorite one. He can roll over most of the time from his belly to his back. but sometimes he can't figure it out. Here is one of those times. Check out the drool!

hanging upside down. Joe always plays rough with him. I'm trying to get used to it, but he is still so little. However, Calvin doesn't seem to mind one bit

Calvin playing with his daddy

CALVIN 15 WEEKS

2009-08-09T10:53:00.001-07:00

Calvin is getting so big. He loves to smile and scream now. His new mastery skills are blowing bubbles, laying on his tummy and rolling over. He is growing so fast and it is so much fun to see what he can do.

MY FAVORITE PEOPLE

2009-07-30T21:28:00.000-07:00

Here are my two favorite people in the world. Aren't the so handsome in their Sunday best? I love you guys.

AWESOME SUNDAY

2009-07-26T21:49:00.000-07:00

Today was one of those days that was just perfect. Calvin woke up in a great mood. We took our time getting ready for church (doesn't start 'til 1). Then church was great. The talks in sacrament were very inspiring. It was about being a modern pioneer. Calvin slept through the whole thing so I actually got to listen to the talks. Then Calvin slept through most of sunday school too. So, I got to participate in that as well. it was on keeping your faith through trials and why heavenly father gives us trials and it is up to us what we do with those trials. Very good topic. always need that reminder for some reason. Then relief society was good. only a few sisters there today probably everyone is on their last vaca before school starts. and the lesson was on temples. it was such a good lesson. oh, then i got a new calling today. i am going to be the assistant librarian. sounds pretty easy compared to counselor in the primary. but none the less i am excited. i'll get to help out people with pictures and videos. get chalk and do all kinds of stuff. after church we came home. i made joe's favorite dinner...chicken, rice and mixed veggies. then we just hung out as a family. I am feeling really blessed right now. and so i just wanted to write about my great day. i also want to express the things that i am thankful for.

1. My membership in the Church. I love knowing that I am a daughter of my Heavenly Father and that He loves me. I love going to church and being with fellow saints and learning and getting those much-needed reminders to help me become a better person and disciple of Jesus Christ.

2. My family. Joe is a great husband who has matured a lot this past year. He is providing for me and for Calvin and I am really happy that he is my husband. Calvin is the most precious thing in my life. And I love him so much. Just thinking about him makes my heart ache to hold him. He is so much fun and so sweet. I love his smile and his noises he makes trying to communicate with us. He is a doll.

3. My family that is far away. I love my parents, my in-laws, my grandparents and sisters. They are all such wonderful examples in my life and am really grateful that I have been blessed with such great people for me to look up to.

4. I am grateful for my new job. It wasn't an easy task to find a job. And I am grateful for that hunt to be over. I am excited to help out my family save money and be more financially prepared for whatever may come our way.

5. I am grateful for the scriptures. I am not always the best at reading them. A fault I plan on fixing. But when I do find the time to read them I am always uplifted and enlightened.

6. I am grateful for friends (old and new). To my great friends back home. I love you and miss you a lot. I think of you often and you are always in my prayers. To friends in far-off places (like Utah and even as far as the Netherlands), you too mean a great deal to me. And for friends I am making now. I know we have friends wherever we go. Sometimes they are just for the moment and sometimes we meet someone who will be a friend forever. But friends are great no matter what.

7. I am grateful for the Air Force. never thought that would make my list. But I am grateful because it is giving our family an opportunity to be on our own. It will bring about a whole new set of opportunities to meet people, to travel, to be of service. It is something my husband loves to do and I am grateful for that as well.

8. I am grateful for so many things. These are just a few. I am glad to have this moment to reflect on my life and realize I have a pretty awesome one. Sure life brings you crazy trials that you never thought would come your way. But, through it all, life is wonderful and I really should never complain. Remind me of this if I ever do.

SATURDAY

2009-07-25T09:21:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I am really excited for today, basically because I have a few things I plan on doing but have no schedule whatsoever. Joe left earlier this morning to go on a bike ride with some guys from his squadron. He's been fixing up his motorcycle and is really excited to take it on a good long test run. As for me, Calvin got up around 7:45 to eat. He was in a good mood, so that was great. I've since then sent him back to bed, while I myself am still lounging around in bed playing on the computer and watching a movie. Well, today I have big plans to go to walmart to get a few things I need for the house (especially a swiffer wet mop that I am desperate for). I am also on the hunt for a blessing outfit for Calvin. That is only a few weeks away and so I hope to find one, otherwise my mom said she would make him an outfit. So, that's it. Isn't that great. I love days where I can do what I want when I want and have a way to do them (Joe has been needing to use the car while fixing up his bike these past 2 weeks). So, hopefully all will go okay and I will have a great day.

CRYING AT BATHTIME

2009-07-24T22:06:00.000-07:00

Okay,first I have to say Calvin is such a good baby. He hardly ever cries and when he does, it's really not that loud. He sleeps through the night, eats good and is learning new skills all the time. The one thing that just started about 2 weeks ago is he starts to cry after he gets out of his bath. He loves the actual bath part. But then once he is in his towel and the whole time I try to dry him off he screams at the top of his lungs. He never did this before and I wonder why it just now started to bother him. I'll get his diaper on...he still screams. Put his clothes on and still is screaming. It doesn't matter what time of day it is. Hmmm, any thoughts to why he started this. I actually think it's kinda funny. Poor little man.

NEW COUCH

2009-07-24T16:05:00.000-07:00

I really want to get a new couch. The one we have is someone else's. Joe picked it up here on base. It is actually really comfy, but I think it kinda smells. I have to put blankets all over it just so I feel comfortable sitting on it. The little loveseat we have is not as comfortable. So I want a new couch. I'm thinking about a set or maybe a sectional. This is my absolute favorite. I love the blue but it comes in many colors. We'll have to wait a bit until we save up money (thank goodness for a new job!). And this will be our first purchase. Can't wait.

BABY BOY

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

Here he is sleeping in his crib

And here he is in his stroller on one of our walks

Doesn't he look like a little man here?

He loves his little chair. He thinks he's pretty hot stuff in it because he can sit up and look around

Oh, how cute he is when he is asleep

WORKING GIRL

2009-07-24T15:18:00.000-07:00

Well, I've been looking for a little part-time job to earn some extra money that we can use to start a savings (fyi the air force doesn't pay all too great). I've been looking on and off base for something and getting pretty discouraged. All I wanted was something really easy for a few hours a few times a week. I had applied to quite a few places. Unfortunately most of them require on-line applications which I think sucks because you really can't make a great first impression on line. Soooooooooooo, after a month of looking, I finally snagged a job at Bed Bath and Beyond. I worked there previously when we lived in Gilroy. I thought about applying earlier but I was trying to find something a bit closer (it's 8 miles away). So, I walked in yesterday afternoon for an application (I remember they didn't make you apply on line). Filled it out on the spot and got to speak with the store manager. He gave me an interview right then and there. He told me I was definitely in the running and would here from him the next day. I was pretty sure I got the job because I thought I had a really good interview, had previous experience at the same company, he gave me his business card....well, that same day he called me up and offered me the job. Woohoo!!!! I really liked working there before. I'm really excited. Joe is such a big help. He will watch Calvin while I work and if our hours overlap a bit I have a babysitter all lined up. Ah, the power of prayer. It wasn't anything desperate for me to get a job, so I didn't pray much about it. But I finally let go of my pride and prayed to Heavenly Father to help me find something. Hmmmm, what do you know....the same day I prayed about it I got a job. Coincidence...definitely not. Wish me luck on my new job and earning some moolah for our family.

CALVIN 12 WEEKS TODAY

2009-07-20T12:51:00.000-07:00

Calvin, you are getting so big. You are doing so many more things now. You love to smile and coo funny sounds. You love to be with your mommy and daddy. You've moved up to your 3-6 month clothes. And you are so interactive now. Your favorite things to do right now is hold up your arms and stare intently at your fists. You also like to stand up and also, you really like it when daddy does superman with you. You are getting a lot stronger and I love your little personality. You are so cute.

Calvin's crazy 'do after dad gave you a bath
Staring at those fists

Beautiful eyes little man

Making your cooing noises in this photo

SWIMMING

2009-07-20T12:34:00.000-07:00

We decided to take Calvin to the pool that is near our house. I was so excited to see how he would react to the water. He did such a good job. It was really hot so we only stayed for about 15 minutes. But the water was so nice and I can't wait to go back. Calvin loved the water. He didn't fuss one bit. He loved it when Joe would put him on his belly and "swim".

Check out those shades. Mr. Cool

This is one of my favorites. His little legs just float at the surface of the water. It looks like he is really swimming

Chillin' after the pool

FHE=HUNTING FOR LIZARDS

2009-07-18T13:16:00.000-07:00

Okay, so the other night, around 10, Joe decided to help me clean out the vacuum because it was giving me problems. He opened up our sliding door that went to the back patio. There was this little lizard on the outside window. Well, before I could tell Joe to shut the door, it ran inside up our kitchen wall. Joe tried to get it, but it was too quick. Next thing you know, it went inside our laundry room which is just off the kitchen. it went under the washing machine. So, here I am with a broom right by the door, so i could scare it out the door in case it came my direction. Joe got on top of the washer and was trying to find it. We couldn't really see it, so we got a flashlight and Joe tried to scoot the washer forward. Well, we couldn't find it anylonger, so we lifted up the washer and dryer. We saw this pool of red and thought it could be blood. EWWW! I didn't want to leave a bleading lizard in my washing machine because that is just gross and i didn't want it to smell. Well, we looked and looked and looked. And to no avail, we could not find this stupid little lizard. Let's just pray that it found it's way outside when we weren't looking and it's not hiding somewhere (dead now probably) inside my washer or somewhere in my pantry. I have to admit, it made for a very interesting evening. Nothing like good quality time hunting for lizards. I have a few pics to post, but that will have to wait a few more days.

UPDATE

2009-07-15T10:15:00.000-07:00

So, once again I'm without the internet. We'll get that taken care of really soon. I'm back at the library and just wanted to post that we are doing good. It is starting to get really hot here. It was 95 at 9 oclock this morning. Supposed to only get to 111 today. There is a pool by our house, but it is too hot to take Calvin out. I'm just staying inside most days where it is cool. I'm currently looking for a very small part-time job. Just something to get out a bit, meet new people and make some extra money that Joe and I can put away for a rainy day. So, that's about it for now. Oh, for those that know I'm trying to lose some weight. I've lost 3 pounds this past week. I never really got started in June and so now in July I'm doing double duty to make up for being a slacker.

ASLEEP

2009-07-07T14:47:00.000-07:00

Calvin was pretty cranky this afternoon. I tried to rock him, feed him, do all of the usual. It wasn't working so I decided to pick him up and rock him over my shoulder. Within 30 seconds he was out. Isn't he soooo adorable?

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY

2009-07-07T13:50:00.000-07:00

We had a very nice 4th of July. We didn't really do anything during the day. Around 6 we headed to the park on base where they were holding the festivities. We found a great place in the shade and we set out the blankets and chairs. We ate hotdogs and hamburgers, listened to live music and enjoyed the time with our new friends. Here are a few pics from that evening.

Calvin slept for the first while. So cute.

This is our little friend Wyatt

and his little sister Lilly

Joe took this picture of Calvin's feet when I was playing with him. Good job honey.

Playing with Calvin

Family picture.

Super Baby! Check out the belly!

Cute babies

Fireworks time! Calvin did a great job for the fireworks. He was looking at them with a lot of interest. The noise didn't bother him at all!

SUMMER STORMS

2009-07-03T22:25:00.000-07:00

I was just sitting here a few minutes ago goofing around on the computer and Joe comes inside and says "Melanie come outside now" okay so I go. Then right as I walk outside (under our car port thankgoodness)....BOOM! lightening and thunder. It is a summer storm. It was really beautiful to see the sky light up. But I'm a scaredy cat and after a few minutes of watching it outside (still under the car port) I'm quite content being back inside and watching it from the safety of my home.

2009-07-02T14:03:00.000-07:00

Calvin, 9 1/2 weeks....is now reaching aimlessly for toys. When he hits them, he gets so excited and keeps swinging his arms to try and hit it again.! Sorry it's sideways. I can't figure out how to fix that.

MORE PICS

2009-07-01T12:21:00.000-07:00

Here are a few random pics that I thought were cute....

DESPERATE TO DECORATE

2009-06-29T20:51:00.000-07:00

I really miss decorating my cakes and cookies. I know I really don't have the time right now to do it, but I keep looking up pictures on the internet and there are some amazing ideas out there that I want to try out. Don't these all look so great. One day I'll get around to it.

I NEED HELP!

2009-06-29T20:20:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know I had some help getting the cool background on my blog. Well, I really want to change it because I see so many cute ones you guys have. Well, I need help. Yes, I am blogger wallpaper challenged. If anyone is willing to take the time to help a girl out, I'd really appreciate it!

MESA TEMPLE

2009-06-29T19:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon we headed over to Mesa to check out the temple. It was 114 degrees outside and after we got there I thought it might have been a mistake. It's not like I could just take my 2 month old son out for a stroll around the temple grounds in this heat. But we decided to walk around it and found the visitor's center. It was open and even better it was air conditioned. We went inside. I am so glad we went. A couple of nice sisters showed us around and we saw an exhibit on the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Then we watched the Joseph Smith movie. I loved it and balled. It was so moving and I felt the spirit so strong. It was a great experience for our family and I can't wait to go back there soon. Here are a few pictures we took at the temple. I'm never in any pictures because I'm always the one taking them...

DOCTOR'S APPOINTMENT

2009-06-29T19:38:00.001-07:00

I took Calvin to the doctor's today for his 2 month check up. He's doing really good except for an annoying blocked tear duct. He weighed in at 12 pounds 14 ounces. Yep he's a moose. And he is 23 inches long. Then came the nasty shots. He got three. And he screamed pretty good. Afterwards mom and he had a pretty good cry together. We've pretty much chilled the rest of the day, taking it easy watching movies and just got back from an evening walk. Overall a pretty good day (minus some tears).

THUMB

2009-06-28T11:02:00.000-07:00

So the other day, I walked in to Calvin's room to check on him. He's gotten used to his crib and doesn't even cry anymore when I put him down to take a nap. He usually kicks off the blanket first thing (hates them aparently). But this time it was so funny. He scooted himself all the way to the corner of the crib, his blanket off (of course), knees up and his THUMB in his mouth. He was just sucking away. Aparently he's found a new toy and is in love with it. But for now he only seems to suck his thumb when he is sleeping. We'll see how this all plays out. But here are a few pics of the awesome Calvin and his yummy thumb.

FAMILY PHOTOS

2009-06-25T13:08:00.000-07:00

I wasn't able to post these when we first got here to Arizona. Misty took some fabulous pictures for us before we left california. These are a few of my favorites. There are so many good ones. thanks Misty

NIECE

2009-06-24T20:32:00.000-07:00

My new little niece, Madalynn, was born yesterday morning. She weighed 7 pounds 8 ounces and is 20 inches long. I can't wait to meet her and hold her. Isn't she precious?!

HE'S GOT SKILLS

2009-06-24T20:29:00.000-07:00

Calvin is learning to sit up and lift his head using his arms. you go buddy. it's not perfect yet but it's a start. it's amazing what they didn't do one day, they can the next!

2009-06-23T18:00:00.000-07:00

Calvin really likes his play time. His mat is his favorite toy. he loves to look at the lights and kick the rattle at the other end. But he can only be there for about 10 minutes before he gets bored and cranky.

EXERCISING

2009-06-23T17:32:00.000-07:00

Calvin is getting to be very active. His favorite exercise is kicking his little legs.

A FUN MORNING

2009-06-22T21:32:00.000-07:00

Today, Joe finally started his job in the Air Force. Since arriving at Luke AFB Joe has done training and gone to briefings for several weeks. Tonight, he started the swing shift. It started at 9 pm this evening and goes to about 5 in the morning. But he said it could change to 4 pm to midnight (which I would like a lot better and I think he would too). So, we had the whole day to spend together, which was nice. Calvin had fun too.

Calvin and his daddy (happy belated father's day hun)

Joe has so much fun with Calvin. Here he is trying to get Calvin to make funny faces. I don't think he was having as much fun as his dad was.

Here is Calvin flexing those huge muscles

This is my favorite. Can you say Elvis Presley?!? "Thank ya, thank ya very much"

It's a bird...it's a plane...it's SUPER BABY!!!!!!

We sure do love you little man. You bring us such joy and many laughs too

ZOO ADVENTURES

2009-06-22T21:09:00.000-07:00

When Janelle came to visit last week, we decided to check out the near by Wild Life Park. It was a lot of fun. We saw tons of beautiful birds, fun monkeys and lots more. Then this saturday, we were going to go to the flea market in Phoenix, but when we got there, it was closed. So, we used our handy dandy little gps system and found yet another zoo to check out (it was the closest and cheapest thing we could find). That zoo was also great. They had a larger selection of the big animals like elephants and rhinos. Here are some fun pictures that captured the days.

Here we are as a cute family outside the park
A cute capuchin monkey. He was so interactive and playful.....

He even grabbed Joe's hand!

This ostrich was hilarious. It kept opening its mouth over and over again like it was trying to attack us through the fence.

Here's Calvin ready to check out the zoo.

My sister, Janelle, and I outside the aquarium.

Feeding the giraffes was another big highlight of the zoo. Except for their scratchy and slimey tongues

This was at the Phoenix zoo. I love the giraffes in the backround!

CALVIN 7 WEEKS OLD

2009-06-19T10:32:00.000-07:00

Well, I think my little Calvin is definitely the cutest thing ever. He is so precious and makes me smile. I love that he is starting to interact more and I just can't get enough of him. Here are some fun Calvin facts. He is 7 weeks old. He can hold his head up pretty good, but only for a short while. His favorite toys are his swing and his little play mat that has a light that plays music. His favorite pass times are eating and sleeping. He likes to smile and coo. He loves it when his daddy carries him around the house. Calvin loves bath time. He doesn't like to fall asleep on his own, but is learning to do so despite that fact. He is my little cuddle bug and I just love him. Here are a few of my favorite pictures.

This one is hilarious. He looks like he's posing for the picture.

Okay, here's my favorite. You just can't help but smile when you see this picture.

I'm not sure what this face was all about but I love it.

Joe likes to let his hair go all wild after bath time and so it ends up being a wild mess most of the time. I love it though.

Janelle and Iattempted the whole faux hawk thing with little man, but it totally curled over. So cute

Another cute photo

Bath time!!! Look at that belly

Playing on his matt. fun fun fun

He loves to sleep on our bed

Another great shot of the the belly

Finally Got the Internet

2009-06-18T20:02:00.000-07:00

Okay, I've been dying because I've had to use the internet at the library for the past few weeks. Well, we finally got it today so now I will be able to stay more up to date on everything. And big bonus....I will be able to post pictures. I have so many that I want to post. So, it may take me a while to get it all done. What did we ever do before the age of the internet, I'll never know.

THINGS ARE GOING GOOD

2009-06-09T16:45:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a week since I've been on to post anything. Things are going good as you can tell from the title of my post. Just need to unpack a few more boxes and we'll be DONE!!!! Calvin is doing good. He turned six weeks yesterday. He is getting so big. We weighed him last week and he was over 11 1/2 pounds. Way to go little man!!! He is also sleeping pretty well through the night. Thanks Tami for the book, it's been helping me out a lot (especially when I want to give in). I wish we had our computer so I could post a bunch of pictures, but I'm still having to use the computer in the library on base. We went to a BBQ on Sunday after church. Joe and some of his married buddies at work decided it would be fun to get all of the couples together to meet and have fun. It was great. Met some cool girls. They are married, but so very young. They have kids under a year, so I'm excited to have some friends for Calvin to play with when he gets a bit older. My sister Janelle comes to visit us this weekend. She'll be here for a few days and then will go up to cali to visit the parents. I'm so excited for her to come. Don't know what we'll do yet. Doing good on the whole weight loss thing as well. I've exercised everyday except sunday and have lost 2 pounds!!!! Yay. hope I can keep it up. I've found that rewards work wonders. So, that's what i've been doing to stay motivated. We are going to the Mesa Temple this weekend. I'm looking forward to going there with Joe and Calvin. It will be a fun day I'm sure. Last thing to post is I am trying to get into this program here that the Red Cross does. It is a dental assistant program. Basically if you get in, they send you to a dental office where you would internship for 6 months. The on-the-job training will then qualify you to take the exam to get you certified to be a dental assistant. It's all for free thanks to the military. Basically they have a lot of these programs here for the spouces. I'm hoping to get in. I could kick myself for never getting my bachelor's degree. I have my AA, and I love doing cakes. But I want something I can fall back on. The prophets are always telling us to get more education and that is what I plan on doing. Hope I get in.

MOTIVATED

2009-06-01T15:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, so today I started working out. I haven't been really motivated until now because, well, I was preggers, then getting used to being a mommy, then moved out of state, then had to unpack everything. So, today was the BIG day. I'm now ready to begin losing weight. Yeah, I didn't really think I would post this, but I could use all of the encouragement I can get. Besides, it makes me accountable to more people than just myself, and I feel like that would be more motivation. I have many reasons why I want to lose weight. First and formost-for my health. I know what being overweight can do to your body and I don't want to have lots of complications when I get older. Second, for my son. I want to be able to get on the floor and play with him and run around and coach a soccer team or two. I don't want to be the down and out mom who can't keep up with her kids (no fun). Third, I just want to feel better about myself. I know appearence isn't everything, but it's something. And to get out of maternity clothes (for a start) is so appealing to me. Fourth, I'm in a wedding next fall and I wan't to come back and just WOW everyone. Maybe that is a little bit vain and all but well, it's the truth. My plan is to do weight watchers. it worked for me in the past. also, i am walking in the morning with Calvin and in the evenings with joe. I want to throw in an exercise video here and there to get me started. So wish me luck everyone. I'll keep you updated on my progress.

106

2009-06-01T15:51:00.000-07:00

106...that was today's temperature as I drove to the library this afternoon. pretty crazy. can't wait for summer to come along.

ARIZONA

2009-05-28T15:36:00.000-07:00

Well, we're here!!!!!!!!!!!! Joe got here to Luke AFB on Friday. My mom, Calvin, and I arrived Saturday. We spent the whole weekend unpacking and cleaning. Thanks mom for all of your help. Now, were are just about moved in. I love my little place. Two bedrooms, one bathroom. But so cute. It is so nice to finally be a family again. Already we have had a few of Joe's friends over and the Relief Society from our new ward made us dinner. It is definitely H-O-T HOT here. But I have to admit, it doesn't feel all that bad. Granted, I stay inside most of the time with my baby boy, but when I do venture out, it's not that horrible. I guess it's because it is so dry. For example, today I went out to our back patio where we threw all of the empty moving boxes. I went to go take them apart and it was a whopping 99 degrees. But, it was totally bareable. That is a pleasant surprise to adjusting to life in the desert. I miss everyone so much, but I am so excited to be here. So far so good. I will post pictures later. Right now we have to use the internet at the library because our computer is out of service for the time being. So, my posts might not be as frequent (not like they ever were). Miss everyone back in Cali.

MOVING....

2009-05-18T13:33:00.000-07:00

Well, everyone, it looks like this is the weekend. We are officially moving to Arizona. It happened all so fast it is almost unreal. It is a pretty long story as to why we are moving on such short notice, but basically it is now or never. So, I will keep you all updated on the move. Joe is coming on Tuesday I think. Then he will leave Thursday. My mom and I will probably leave either Friday or Saturday. WOW!!! Wish me luck everyone.

OH, CALVIN

2009-05-14T17:57:00.000-07:00

I love my little Calvin. He is so precious to me. But, I have to admit, he is not the most photogenic baby. Well, not yet anyways. Here are a few of my favorites.....

By the way, we had our 2 week check up today. He has gained over 1 1/2 pounds and moved from the 50th percentile to the 75th. Yay baby boy!!!!

MORE OF CALVIN

2009-05-09T17:51:00.000-07:00

Here are more pictures of Calvin.

Calvin with his GREAT GREAT GRANDMOTHER, MYRTLE

He's so cute. I love all of his little expressions he makes!

CALVIN EDWARD MARTIN ARCHULETA

2009-05-09T07:04:00.000-07:00

Calvin was born on April 27, 2009. I went into labor around 6:30 pm on Sunday and he was born at 11:20 am on Monday. He was 8 pounds 4 ounces and 20 inches long. My labor went pretty well. It progressed quickly once I was admitted to the hospital. Then the poor little guy was having some troubles, so after an hour or so of pushing, I was wheeled into the O R to get ready for a C-section. But, little Calvin and I endured and we made it without the operation. It was love at first sight. He is beautiful and perfect. A week overdue with peeling skin, I couldn't believe I was finally holding my son. He has changed so much already and more pictures are coming soon.

40 WEEKS 5 DAYS

2009-04-25T19:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, so today I thought I'd recap on my pregnancy. My due date was on Monday, April 20th. Today, 5 days later, I am still waiting.....waiting for my little man to make his grand entrance. He sure does know how to keep us all in suspense! On Wednesday evening, I wasn't feeling that great, so we came home early from a nice dinner at my aunt's house. Well, a little while longer I started having some small contractions. By midnight they were getting stronger, but still pretty far apart. Around 6 in the morning, they were about 5 minutes apart, still pretty strong, but pretty bareable. Then around 9 they were about 2 to 4 minutes apart and so we decided to head over to labor and delivery to get checked out. Well, on my way over, the contractions pretty much stopped. And after getting checked out, they sent me home. You could imagine my dissappointment. Then, to make me even more discouraged, I hadn't even dialated or efaced any more than I was a week ago. And now it is Saturday and I haven't even had any more contractions. Not sure what that was all about, but I have to say, I think it was a pretty mean joke for my body. I just wish that you would get signs that would tell you that ok, now that this happens you are this amount of time away from having your baby. I don't think it's too much to ask. But, Calvin is still healthy and pretty darn active. He isn't slowing down much and must love it where he is. He is in no hurry to leave his happy home. Me, on the other hand, I'm ready to have this guy. I go back Monday to see if I'm progressing. That will put me at 41 weeks and if I don't have him by then, they will most likely schedule me for an induction. I never thought it would be so long and so hard to wait. Wish me luck everyone. I really don't want to be induced. But, I guess I gotta do what I gotta do.

Here's what Calvin looks like right now. Isn't it amazing????!!!!!

DUE DATE

2009-04-20T13:09:00.000-07:00

Okay, today is supposed to be the magical day. But, so far no contractions, not a one. I love Lorilee for taking me out today to the mall and to Target to get me walking around. I hope your efforts aren't in vain friend. As for my pacience. I'm pretty convinced if one more person calls to ask if the baby is here yet I'll scream!!!! Don't get me wrong, I really appreciate all of the love and concern and excitement that everyone is sharing, but it's so dissapointing to have to tell everyone that "nope, no baby yet, not even close".......Okay, I know I won't be pregnant forever, but for a control freak planner like myself, this is the hardest thing ever. I really think you should have labor signs and then labor ACTUALLY begin. Not this guessing game that is happening. Okay, I know this is a total venting post, but it just goes to show how excited I am to meet my son and hold him and love him.

NO MORE WORK FOR ME

2009-04-09T11:18:00.000-07:00

Well, it is official.....I'm officially done working. I have to say I have quite a bit of emotions about this transition in my life. I have never not had to work before. I started working for D'Boni's Pizza when I was 16 years old. At the time it was for extra spending money and for me to save to buy a car. Well, as college rolled around, I continued to work until I graduated. Then I decided to go on a mission (a different kind of work). When I returned from my mission I got engaged and I needed to work to help make ends meet since we were moving to a more expensive part of the state. Then we moved back and again, I worked to help pay off our debt. Well, the time has come that our debt is pretty much taken care of (except for our car) and Joe has a very good career ahead of him in the Air Force. Now, the baby is almost here and I am taking maternity leave. I have been so excited for this day to come, when I wouldn't have to be on my feet all day long or deal with crazy customers. But truth be told I'm pretty sad today. D'boni's is like family to me. I practically grew up there and worked with many different family members and great friends throughout the years. And since I've always worked since I was 16, I'm not sure what life will be like with this big change. Yeah, I know I will be working hard taking care of a little baby boy, but it will be different, that's all. So, goodbye to a great job and great people whom I love very much. Another chapter in our lives is taking place...moving to a new state....having a baby......a new career for my husband.....wow!

20 YEARS AGO

2009-04-08T09:01:00.001-07:00

Over 20 years ago, I befriended a little girl who moved here wither her family from Mexico. Her name was Marizol Fernandez. Even though she didn't speak English and I didn't speak Spanish, we became best friends. We did everything together, so when she moved away 18 years ago, I was devistated. We never stayed in contact and I always wondered what happened to her. Well, about a year ago she located me on Myspace (gotta love technology). Well, yesterday, she and her boyfriend were returning home from a trip and decided to take a detour to Escalon to come and visit me. So, after 18 YEARS of not seeing eachother, we met again and it was so great. I was nervous at first, but we just fell into conversation and talked about the good ol' days of Van Allen and learning eachother's language. It was so much fun. I took her around to see her old house where we used to play. Then we went over to Van Allen to show her all of the changes that have taken place there since we were little kids. Then we headed over to get some D'boni's pizza. Sadly, they couldn't stay for very long, but I am so glad she came to see me. She is doing really well down in Riverside and I told her that we can't let another 18 years go by again. I love how you have those friends that come into your life and no matter how much time goes by, you can just pick up and be great friends again. I love you Marizol!!!!

GENERAL CONFERENCE

2009-04-06T08:57:00.000-07:00

This weekend was the 179th annual General Conference. I missed Saturday's sessions, but I got to go over to my in-laws' house to watch it with them on Sunday. The conference was so great. I love to hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir sing. They are absolutely amazing and I always feel the spirit. The talks were so good too. I learned quite a bit and I am so thankful for our Prophet and Apostles. They have such a love for the Savior and you can feel the love that they have for each one of us. My favorite talk was by Elder Holland. Most of the talks during the first half were about the atonement of Jesus Christ. His talk was so insightful. He talked about how the Savior really does know what we are going through during our trials and when we sin. He said something that I never knew or thought of before. He said that Christ too knows what it is like to be alone spiritually. He talked about when he was on the cross and that He kept calling to his father and asked why he had left him alone. We really know that he wasn't alone, but Christ needed to feel that. He needed to make that connection of being alone so he could know how we must feel when we do not have the spirit with us when we sin. I LOVED THAT. My savior really does know me and understands every part of my thoughts and feelings because he too has experienced it all. He has a pure knowledge of everything and I am so grateful for the trials that he faced and overcame so that one day I too will be able to overcome all of my trials and know that He understands. That to me was the best talk of the day. I also liked many of the other talks and really got a lot out of conference this April. I can't wait to read them again in the Ensign so I can learn even more.

38 WEEKS TODAY

2009-04-06T08:48:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I'm at 38 weeks now and I am going crazy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I do not do good with waiting and I just cannot wait to meet the little man inside my tummy. All I can think about is my son and I don't want to wait anymore. BUT on a good note, if I do wait just a few more days Joe will probably make it here for the birth. That is something I just thought would never be possible. He graduates from Sheppard AFB training on Tuesday and will move to Luke AFB in Arizona on Wednesday. After that he will be so close that he can just jump on a plane and HOPEFULLY make it here in time. I'm praying so hard that he will make it (I know there is a chance he might not). Okay, well I have another Doctor's appointment on Thursday. Maybe I will have some progress. Yesterday I had quite a few Braxton Hicks Contractions. I really haven't felt too many of those during my pregnancy so yesterday was quite a workout for my belly! Okay, I guess 2 or so more weeks isn't really that long to wait, but like I said I don't have that much patience for waiting.

SO YOUNG SO IN LOVE

2009-04-01T14:57:00.000-07:00

I was cleaning out some of my things down in the basement the other day. I came across this picture of Joe and I when we were dating. I LOVE these photos. First, we look so young, second, we look so in love. I know they are a bit dorky but I thought they were lost and I was SO excited to find them. It was all folded up and wrinkled but I think they came out great. I love you JOE!!! By the way I think this was the Summer of 2001

BABY SHOWER

2009-03-31T08:13:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, March 26, my great friends Misty, Tami and Lorilee threw me a baby shower!!! I had such a great time. They spent so much time and effort and it turned out absolutely gorgeous (thanks girls). It was mostly women from the ward. It was fun. We played games, ate yummy food and of course opened presents for little Calvin. My mom came and had a great time. She usually shys away from church things because she isn't a member. But after the party she couldn't stop talking about how everyone was so friendly to her and during the party I saved her a seat to sit by me during dinner but she just went and sat down somewhere else and started talking to some of the ladies. Thank you everyone for making that experience great for my mom too. Got to plant those little seeds. I really do have the best friends in the entire world. We are always there for eachother. And it means the world to me.
Me, Misty, Tami and Lorilee (yep I'm the odd one out with the brown hair!)

The cute decorations that they did at Tami's house

Tami and Misty made this adorable diaper cake. Way to go girls

Here I am before the party with little Sydney. She love to kiss Calvin in my belly. So cute!!!

SHOPPING SPREE AND DOCTORS

2009-03-26T18:43:00.001-07:00

Today I got to go on a complete baby gear shopping spree. First I went to Babies R Us where I met my in-laws. They bought our stroller travel system for us. Yay for great parents!!!! I also was able to buy all of the bedding for Calvin's crib and a cute coming home outfit for him when we go home from the hospital. After that had a great lunch with my good friend Heather. We ate at the Brighter Side in down town Modesto. If you've never been you got to try it out. Very delicious sandwiches at a great price!!! Then went home and tried to relax, but I'm in a crazy 'let's get everything ready for the baby' mood. So, even though I had huge swollen legs, I didn't really rest. Then I went to my check up hoping for a little progress in the baby department. Well, nothing's happening so far. Not dialated at all and he's still just hanging around. He hasn't dropped. But I guess that gives me a little extra time to get everything in order. Plus, now I won't have to worry about our fun temple trip we are taking tomorrow night. It will probaby be the last time I will get to go for a while. After the doctor's appointment, I decided to go to Target to use some more of the gift cards I received. I bought a glider for the room and Calvin a cute little sun hat to protect his little head. Now I'm back home with my huge swollen legs and I am beat. But I had a really fun day spending a lot of money without really spending any money. Gotta love those gift cards. Thank you to everyone who got us them because they helped out sooooo much. I can't wait to post the pictures of my last baby shower. It was a blast.

BIRTHDAY FUN

2009-03-19T15:49:00.000-07:00

This was the only picture I took the night the girls took me out to celebrate a belated birthday dinner. Thanks Misty, Lorilee and Tami (and Tami's friend Alyssa) for spending the evening with me. I had a great time and it was complete when I got to wear the blinking feather birthday crown. You girls are awesome and I had so much fun being with all of you. Check out my sexy pose!!!

WEDDING BELLS

2009-03-19T15:33:00.000-07:00

My sister Wendy was sealed to her husband ,Jason, at the Oakland Temple on March 7th. It was a beautiful day as well as a beautiful sealing. Afterwards there was a ring ceremony and a reception. they look so happy.

Here are some fun pictures at the temple. Janelle and I were two of her bridesmaids as well as our cousin, Jordyn and friend Lupe

And yes, It was so much fun being preggers while being in a wedding. Look at those ankles!!! Congratulations Wendy and Jason!!!!!!

WENDY'S BACHELORETTE PARTY

2009-03-19T15:24:00.000-07:00

We threw Wendy a Bachelorette party the week before her wedding. Lupe, Katie, Myself, Wendy and Lupe all had a great time. We played games and ate a bunch of junk food. Wendy also got some pretty awesome gifts (wink wink)

This is Fabio. It was the ugliest blow-up doll we could find. He wasn't anatomically correct, but looked wierd without any clothes so we put on some swim trunks. Oh yeah!!!

Isn't wendy sooo pretty in her veil and boa?!

BABY SHOWER

2009-03-19T15:03:00.000-07:00

On March 4th, my sisters and cousin, Staci, threw me a baby shower for little Calvin. It was a lot of fun. It was great to have so many friends and family members there. We opened gifts (thanks everyone), ate some yummy food and played some funny games.

Wendy trying to determine what kind of baby food that was.

I got a lot of cute clothes along with some great basics

These are the gals from D'boni's that came. Left to right...Aunt Barb, Luann, Diane, Jane, Me, Wendy, Teresa, and Maria

My family. Back row....Great Aunts Linda, Pat and Barb. Front row....cousin Linda, My mom, and Great Aunt Gretchen

More friends from High School. Dana, Heather, Veronica, Gena and her cousin Addison

PICTURES

2009-03-13T16:47:00.000-07:00

My awesome friends Tami and Misty helped me make these pictures happen. I wanted to take some nice pictures to remind me of my first pregnancy. I am so excited to be a mommy and I was trying to find a way to capture that. Tami styled my hair beautifully and Misty was the creative photographer. I love the almond orchard in the backround. It was a perfect day and I am so glad I did this. It was pretty fun too except I was pretty unsure of how to pose for some of the pictures.

YOU KNOW YOU HAVE GREAT FRIENDS WHEN.....

2009-03-10T07:54:00.001-07:00

I'm pretty sure I have the greatest friends in the entire world!!!! Sunday I was having a pretty tought time at church. And had to bolt out of sacrament meeting. I am very pregnant, miss my husband, and have a few issues I'm dealing with. It was pretty embarrassing. But I couldn't control my emotions. I wasn't in the bathroom more than 2 seconds when in walks in the greatest friends in the world. Lorilee, Misty and Tami... You guys are the best. Thank you so much for being there for me when I needed you the most. You made sure I was okay. I'm sorry for the breakdown on Sunday. Like I said, it was very embarrassing, but it's times like these when you see who cares the most. I just want you all to know how much I care about you and that I don't take our friendships for granted. Lorilee, I really feel like Heavenly Father brought us together. You have been there so much for me and I hope I can do the same for you. Misty, you always know what to say to chear me up and Tami, you are such a great listener. I really wish we didn't have to go through some of the trials that we do go through. But through this trial, I have found the best of friends. Thanks again girls. I love you so much.

28

2009-02-19T07:34:00.000-08:00

Well, it's official! I've turned 28 years old today. So, I thought I'd give a little reflection back on my life and come up with 28 things that I've done over my lifetime.

1. Married Joe on February 5, 2005.
2. I am expecting my first child, Calvin sometime in April
3. When I was 6 I had my appendix removed
4. I've been to Hawaii 6 times.
5. I served a full-time mission in the Louisville Kentucky Mission, Spanish Speaking
6. I'v had the same best friend, Heather for 24 years (we met in preschool)
7. I've worked at D'boni's Pizza, Moss Rose Bakery, Stanislaus Medical Society, Blockbuster, Bed Bath & Beyond, In-N-Out Burger, Franklin Mechanical, and was a hostess for model homes in Stockton
8. I've played several instruments over the years including guitar, piano, clarinet, oboe and accordian
9. I've attended MJC and received my AA in culinary arts
10. I decorate cakes and have made approximately 100 cakes and cookies for family, friends, and other clients
11. In highschool I went from being the slowest runner on the cross country team (2 miles in 27 minutes) to being on the top 7 varsity team (3 miles in 21 minutes). I also was the starting right halfback for my highschool soccer team
12. I joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on February 4, 2001.
13. I went skydiving in May of 2008
14. I've learned to speak Spanish fluently
15. I've served in Primary as a Sunbeam teacher, Valient 11 teacher, CTR 5 teacher and am currently 2nd Councelor in the Primary Presidency at the Modesto 5th Ward
16. I have stood in 19 of the United States of America
17. I have lived in California, Utah, Kentucky, and Indiana
18. I have biked down from the top of a crater on a mountain in Hawaii
19. I was a straight-A student in school and graduated 3rd in my class
20. I have been to many concerts including: Jack Johnson, Shania Twain, Reba McEntire, Keith Urban, Linkin Park, and went to Summerfest twice
21. I have seen Phantom of the Opera, Aida, Carmen, Rent, A Christmas Carol, The Nutcracker, and Riverdance live
22. I've mastered saying the Alphabet backwards very quickly
23. I've had pixy short hair all the way to hair that goes down my back
24. I have read the Book of Mormon completely in both English and Spanish
25. I've been to 11 temples so far
26. I have been a part of 9 people entering in the Waters of Baptism
27. I have seen in the wild one of the most rarest sea creatures (the whale shark)
28. I have had the best life so far with such great family and friends. That is the biggest accomplishment so far. I continue to want to try new things including traveling, food, learning new skills and have a strong desire to continue my formal education. 28 is GREAT!!

MORE CAKES

2009-02-19T07:27:00.001-08:00

Here are my latest cakes. The top one is a boy baby shower cake that I did for a family friend.
And the bottom one was for the first birthday of my friend Tami's little girl, Nikell. Yay for cake!!!

WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS VALENTINE'S WEEKEND

2009-02-18T13:34:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm back from going to see Joe in Texas. It was a really fun trip. I got to Wichita Falls Friday afternoon. I picked Joe up from the Air Force Base that evening. I was tired, so we ordered Chinese Food and took it back to our hotel room. Then we pretty much just hung out that night. Saturday he took me to the mall where we hung out and met some of the guys that are in his squadron. They all get their hair cut by Joe and were telling me how cool my hubby is. After the mall we drove around town and then Joe bought me a locket for Valentine's Day (no picture of that yet). It was very sweet. Now I will be able to put his picture in there along with Calvin's in a few months!!! We were going to go to Red Lobster that night but it was packed so we had a really romantic dinner of Taco Bell and Burger King after a really romantic movie "Paul Blart, Mall Cop". It was a pretty funny movie by the way. Sunday we pretty much just hung out. He took me down to the base where he showed me where he goes to school, a bunch of planes and other little sites. Not much going on that day because everything was closed for the weekend. Then we decided to drive up to the Oklahoma border which was only about 15 minutes away. Then we realized that there was nothing to do that direction so we headed back down to Wichita Falls. We kept going a little south to Arrowhead Lake. We got there and well, it was pretty much the same...nothing to do. So, we came back to town saw another movie and then went to Red Lobster for our belated romantic dinner. Monday we totally just vegged at the hotel. I was so glad I got to spend real quality time with Joe. It was fun to just hang out and goof off (what we do best!). I love him so much. I hate being apart. I know it's going by quickly but there's nothing like having your best friend around. Here are some pics from our little reunion......

Joe and I waiting for our pizza

AWWWWWW.....how cute are we

okay, these next few photos are backwards. At Red Lobster I totally got Joe shoving his mouth full of food so he took these beauties of me. Payback is not so cool

Shove it in Joe!!!!

I took this picture for my dad. He loves to fish

This is Wichita Falls

There are all of these oil drills around the countryside

We ate lunch from our car at the base while we looked at the airplanes.

Here we are at the mall

This little restaurant was so cute. They gave everyone little Valentine's packages with your purchase. By the way, everyone is so friendly in Texas.

More of my cute hubby.

AIR FORCE UPDATE

2009-02-11T08:39:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I thought I'd do a little air force update. Say goodbye to Italy everybody. Now it's exoctic ARIZONA!!!! We will now be going to Luke Air Force Base which is located near Phoenix. At first I was a bit dissapointed about not getting to go to Italy. But, Arizona was one of my top picks if we stayed in the US. And more people will get to come and visit, I'll get to come home to visit a little more often and it won't be quite a culture shock first time around in the military life-style.

Okay, so incase you didn't know already, this is the F-16 fighter plane that Joe will be working on. He will be crew chief and basically have to know everything about this plane. Pretty cool I think. He really wants to fly one but for now working on them will be the next best thing.
And here is where our base will be located. It is north of Phoenix, near Glendale.