Mother's Day

 Growing up, I always felt as though I had been cheated out of something so special, having a mom.  My mother died from cancer when I was almost 7 (Gracie's age). Through the years, I couldn't help but feel sorry for myself and I hopelessly tried to create a barrier to my emotions so that I could not feel the sadness swelling up inside. I couldn't help to feel that God owed me something for taking my mother away.

My immature mind could not understand that through my loss, God had provided, abundantly!

It has taken me these 33 years to realize that He gave me a host of mothers to look up to. Women who have cared for me and taught me so much about unconditional love, patience, forgiveness, raising children, and above all, love. These women are strong, devoted, and amazing and this Mother's Day I just want to say, "Thank you!". Even though my own mother was not here, you all gave me hope and have taught me so much, whether you know it or not.

 My Grandmother 

She is my rock! She is more than a grandmother to me and I am constantly amazed by the depth of her endless love and devotion to her family. She has always been there in my life and is the greatest blessing. I don't know what I would have done without her throughout my life and I only hope to become a part of the mother, wife, grandmother, and great-grandmother that she is.  

My Aunt Barbara

She is always so joyous and interested in what is going on in my life despite the miles between us. She has raised 3 beautiful daughters of her own and has always been supportive and loving. She never fails to be a blessing to all who know her and especially to our family. 

Mom (Nana)

When I married my husband, I received so much more than a wonderful husband, I also received his amazing family which includes his mother, grandmother, and two sisters. From day 1, I have always been included into the family and have been adopted fully into their family. Mom is devoted to her family and is a special part of all her grandchildren's lives. She is constantly giving of her time and love and never asks anything of herself. 

Angie

My father was able to find love again! I only wish they could have found each other sooner because she has brought so much joy into his life along with 4 amazing step-daughters. She has brought light into a dark place in our family's life. She brings magic to our lives!

Aunt Maria

She is so kind and loving and is ready to help her family in any way she can. She has always taken an interest in us and never forgets to inspire us with her love.

Thank you to all the women I know who are mother's who have shown me so much. This Mother's Day is for you! A day to remember that you are an influence in this world and that you are truly loved!

Rheygan is already 1

We have been having a lovely weekend and an exciting one at that! Rheygan is already 1 year old! Saturday we had a little party at Nana and Papa's house with the whole family and 2 special guests. Grandma and Uncle drove down from El Paso to spend this special occasion with us. Jake cooked some delicious burgers and we topped the evening off with cupcakes and presents. We all sang "Happy Birthday" to her and she was amazed and confused at first as to why everyone was singing and staring at her but she loved it and especially loved her first cupcake. She is a plain Jane when it comes to flavors so she got a simple vanilla cupcake and she loooved it!

Here's to loving family, great friends, and the love of God for bringing this sweet girl into our lives. She loves being the center of attention and especially loves to laugh and play with everyone. She will always start to dance when she hears a beat and she adores her big sisters who look after her like little mommies. She has been really walking now for about the last 2 weeks and curiously chases George the cat around the house. In the evening she wants to grab hold of someone's finger and take a walk around the yard, picking up rock souvenirs along the way. Her favorite food are sweet peas and she will not drink anything other than water out of a cup. She can say "momma", "dadda", "hi", "nigh-nigh"(night-night), "up", and "woof". She also has her own language and is constantly having a conversation with herself in it with hand gestures and all.

Sharing her grapes with Grandma

Doing some pull ups

Looking wide eyed as everyone starts to sing to her

Happy Birthday my little cupcake!

El Paso - Summer 2013

Headed down to El Paso last week to visit the family and also see Uncle Chris who came down from Colorado.

Sprinkler time!

She's growing up far to quickly!

Sophia and Gracie

Uncle Chris taking advantage of a comfy couch.

 We went to the Rancher's Market which is a very festive grocery store that reminds me of when my Grandmother used to take us to Juarez when I was little (before it was dangerous!). They had an amazing produce section that had amazing prices too! We ate lunch there too. They make all there tortillas, meats, aguas frescas and more right there so it was really fresh and delicious.

9 months old

Chris and McKenna

Getting some energy out

playing story cubes

Uncle told them a secret word to make them giggle!!