Briam's Family Blog

The school year ended, and Paola got a chance to take another group of students to Europe at the beginning of summer.   What a life?  She kept sending us great pictures of having fun while I stayed with the kids and we worked hard to keep everything running without her.

I guess it was well deserved after a long working year with all the students.  Next up is summer time and a trip to Ecuador to visit Paola's family.  That promises to be a lot of fun.

Paola and I have started taking advantage of our Wednesday evenings when our kids are at the church youth activities.  On this occasion, I even got Paola to ride on the motorcycle with me.  That was a lot of fun.  If you know Paola, you know that she is was very entertaining when the speed picks up or there is a sharp turn.  I am trying to take her to places she may not visit often.  So on this occasion I took her to Bella Vista.  It's tucked away in the back of an old shopping center on the conyers exit.  Authentic and Delicious!!

Last week we had a little surprise guest in our basement.  The window had been left open and a little friend decided to climb in.  It had warpped itself aroudn the curtain rod.  I had walked downstairs to go to my office and had felt a breeze.  I thought that had been odd.  Perhaps one of my kids had left the fan on.  I walk in and turn on the light and noticed the fan was not on.  I did also notice that there was a snake on top of the curtain rod.  I thought it was Matthew's rubber snake and reached for it.   Just short of grabbing it, I thought to myself, 'I don't think that Matthew's toy snake was this big..."

So I stopped and stared at it for awhile.  It did move a little and so it was time to prepare for war.  I make a snake catching tool from a broom and a telephone cord.  Matthew helped me to get it in a box so we could take it outside.  It was heavy and almost five feet long.  I think if Paola would have seen it, she would have had a heart attack.

Let's not talk about the fate of our little friend.  I think I will either have to keep the basement windows closed, or brush up on my snake handling skills.

Another year has passed.   Tons have happened.    My daughter Megan said to me a few weeks back, "Dad" why don't you post anything anymore.   Yeah, sorry about that.   Life has been pretty busy, but I think I just need to find the time to record a lot of the little things, and it will be better than trying to do it all.   This really is a cool place to record a lot of what happens to us.  So I will re-kick it off with this:

When Paola and I got engaged, she did not want for me to keep riding motorcycle.  During that time we knew a few people that rode that got in to a couple of bad motorcycle wrecks.  So it has been many years, but before Chirstmas, Paola said "I guess you are responsible enough now..."       That day I called my sister to see if she still had that motorcycle in the garage.   Man I love riding this thing.  It's a beutiful ride and so very relaxing.   Since then I have been riding almost every day.  Along the way I seem to have picked up a riding budy.  Sophia loves riding with me.  Now we just have to keep it safe out there.

Well with that, one final thought.  I love my kids, and my wife.   God has been good to us.

This past weekend we had an alignment of stars.  There were so many things going on for all the kids, that our tires seemed to be on fire.  Matthew and his wresting team had a great season and they are in the final matches next Saturday.  Matthew won all four of his matches this day.  Below is Matthew throwing down with his crazy wrestling moves.

Sophia and her team did excellent on their reading bowl competition.  It was a lot like the wrestling match because they threw down on their opponents without mercy.

And not to be left behind, Megan and her team also did some stomping at the Middle school level.  But also it was her day for the photography competition.  She came in first in the district.

Overall a great day for the kids in the things they have been working so hard on.  We are so proud of our kids.  They are hard working and determined.  We pray they work hard at the things God has in store for them as they grow.

We had a chance this past week to go out to dinner after Matthew's music concert.  It was a chance to not only celebrate the performance, but also get some dinner with my parents at a little place that we liked to visit.

My Dad's birthday had just passed and we also wanted to celebrate his 200+ years... (ok .. .maybe a little less).  Here is a picture of the fire they set at the Hibachi table before they get cooking.  That is a good way to get a birthday / concert celebration started.

One nice night with no work, music concert, and a family dinner.  Busy but good.  Man these kids are growing up quick.  Man my father is growing up quick.  :-)

This past weekend it was time for the 2nd annual Flapjack 5K run.  Last year we did awesome!  We had all been practicing and running regularly.

It was a fun day for everyone.  We did our run and had fun as well.  I was really rough on the run, but glad I did it in the end.  I was really proud of my family for doing this.  We almost chose not to do it since several of us had been slacking for a while.

Now some of us (not me) really did good.  Matthew was in the top group but there was stiff competition.   Sophia and Paola were able to get first in their age group.  So we were all very proud of them (and a little jealous).  :-)

There is this really cool burger place near the project that I am currently working at.  It's called Killer burgers (or at least that is the sub title).  One of the cool things about this place other than the delicious burgers and the bacon ranch French fries, is the cool robots on the counter behind the bar.  Its a line up of really cool and old robots from throughout the ages. 

Some of these robots bring up great memories from times near and far... and some of them are just cool looking although I have no idea where they came from.  This place is really interesting, not only in the decorations, but that they show old black and white movies as well on the wall and screens.  Some are SciFi and some are kung-fu, but its all awesome!

A couple of weekends ago we got a chance to have a little date.  Just Paola and me.  We hit Agave, a place that we had visited some time back with some good friends.

Last weekend was also busy as usual.  The kids of course are even more demanding than ever!  But I guess that is part of growing up.  I had to bribe the girls with delicious milk shakes from Chick-Fil-A so that they would not shave my head while I slept.  I wonder how long that will last.

And as the season winds down I finally got a chance to catch one of Matthew's game.  I have been hard pressed to be available for some of these games already.  Although they were close on the score, they were not able to pull out a win.  But I was glad to be able to see my son get some field time.  He is number 75 in the picture.

What a great time we had this year at Elkmont.  Time to unplug and rough it up for a few days in the Smoky Mountains with family and friends.  If you click on the picture or HERE you can go to the Gallery where there are a bunch of more pictures so you can get a taste.  God is so good for allowing us this little break away.  Remember these times!

Well ever since Sophia used her powers of persuasion and pouty face to convince Paola that we needed a kitten, things have been a little more exciting around the house.  The last couple of days we have had not only the kitten but another little visitor.  When ever the cat does anything that warrants a severe beating, she will make a cute little kitten face.  I am starting to think that Sophia has been training her to do that to avoid exile.

Well, the other day I was working in my office and I saw something out of the corner of my eye moving behind the bookshelf.  Lo and behold a little visitor.

We have been living here forever, and this is the first time we have had one of these little guys paying us a visit.  Well, although it was mostly uneventful, and we were able to take him to the woods and let him loose:  Paola was not to happy about having this uninvited visitor.

This morning I got a chance to go climb stone mountain with the kids.  It was a nice cool day and the climb was not too taxing.  We had a great time climbing and talking about life.  The yellow flowers  were blooming everywhere (weeds).  They really did look nice.  The gang is all in pretty good shape so it was pretty easy.  Now we have to clean up and get some of our favorite Taco Bell and play some D&D.  Yeah, that's right:  D&D!

I got a chance to have lunch with Megan and her crazy friends today.  She is growing up so fast, and I am sure at some point she wont want her old dad embarrassing her in front of her friends.  Well today was not that day.  We had some good laughs and I got to see some of Megan's personality when she is being silly with her friends.  A good bunch.

Me and Taco Cat got a chance to visit Sophia for lunch today. A very rare and auspicious occasion. I am working from home for a few days so that gives me some flexibility.  Well, as part of the entertainment, Sophia tried to drink her shake with a straw through her nose. Where ever does she get these crazy ideas?  I am sure I did not encourage such crazy behavior.

I was backing up some of the photos that Paola had on her phone before she finds a good way to blow it up.... please don't tell her I said that.    Well Anyways, I came across this picture of Matthew shaving.  It was August of 2014 and this was the first time that Matthew did a full shave.  How quickly they grow up.  He was only 12 years old but his mustache was already kicking him in the nose.  Better get that under control before it gets out of control.

In February we got a bunch of the family together to go on a Cruise.

Well we got a bunch of pictures scanned that we bought and we added them to a gallery HERE.  Follow the link to see some of those.  We will add a bunch of the camera pictures when we get a chance (but don't hold your breath too long).

One of the new things that has happened to our household is the loss of our cat Sarah.  She has been my pet since 1992.  That is a very very long time indeed.  Well with the passing of time, we had the clamoring for another fluffy companion.

And on a completely different note, a quick storm passing by near the night a few days lead to the opportunity to do some bouncing with the rain for Megan.

Oh to be young and carefree (and fluffy).   There is a joy in that.

How long has it been?  I have not been posting for over a year.  "Why would you abandon us this way, Briam?"  Well I went back to finish my degree at Georgia Tech.  And then the truth is that I got really lazy. 

Well now I am back.  And so much time has passed that I think I should really start now and then every now and then do some back tracking until I catch up (which is pretty much never).  Either way, Onward!

On Friday Night, I turned 43 ... or 430, I don't recall.  But we went to celebrate with some Chicago Style pizza.   Umm umm.  One of my favorites.

After some awesome pizza, we then moved next door to watch the magical world of Krispy Kreme creations.  Below is the machine that makes the magic.

Oh look closely at the sugary sweetness that pours down.  It must be healthy for you!!

And to top it off a little chuckle at the warning on the side of the machine.  Be careful with the hands.

And with that.  The first post is in. 

This past September we got a chance to go to Elkmont again.  Another great camping trip with some great friends.  And as in the past years, on the Labor day, we throw in for a nice biker ride around Cades Cove.  The kids ride like champs, and the reward after the 11 mile bike ride was a nice tall ice cream treat.  We ate like kings around the campfire... For a short days,... life became simple... and we ate like kings.

Click HERE for more pics.

What ever happened to long relaxing weekends with rest and no alarm clocks?  Those days are long gone.  Most of the weekends are packed full of activities and events.... games and projects...This Past Saturday was no different.  But I think these were some pretty good events.

Matthew did great.  But more importantly, he really enjoyed the competition. The last thing we want is for him to burn out and not enjoy these events.  After that we celebrated with a little Taco Bell!!  ...oh yeah. Nothing says "I Destroy Math" .... like burritos.  We got a little rest, and then we were off to the Soccer game.

Where were the girls during all of this?  The girls had a girl scout Science field trip instead.  They also had a blast.  They got to see a ton of cool stuff.  From race cars to experiments.... arts and crafts with robotics.  Pretty cool stuff, ... I wish I could have also gone.

The weekends don't seem to be getting any lighter... and the kids aren't getting any younger.  Onward!

We had Paola's brother in town for a few weeks.  They came with the whole tribe.  And boy did all of the kids have soo much fun!!

On this day the gang got a chance to go get some wings...  there were many chickens in fear that day.  This is a good picture before everyone dug in and got sauce on everything.

The reading bowl for 2013 got here quicker than I would have thought.  Last years bowl was full of reading and testing late in to many nights before the competition.  This year was no different...  But the day finally arrived and the Shoal Creek Sharks were ready... and they did great.

So now it is more studying and practice since next weekend they now go to Regionals.  I do have to say that one of the biggest aids in Matthews practice has been Paola.  She is the motivator... the one that is up late and up early helping Matthew to practice.  She is the one that reminds him of the goal and encourages his progress.  Paola and many other parents and teachers helped the team reach their goal.

A little over a week ago, we got a chance to have our Breakfast with Santa.  It was good to see a lot of friends and their kids coming to take pictures with Santa.  You forget how many kids everyone has until they are all in the same room together.... and it is a little nice... and a little scary when you finally do see it. 

 The breakfast was provided by Waffle House... Oh yes... and it was syrup-licious!!  And in our rare photo with Santa, all eyes where open.  Another bonus! 

Megan recently had her birthday party [Nov 24 th was her B-Day] and had a bunch of her friends stay for a sleepover.  I was all about painting nails, watching movies, playing games, and eating pizza.  But even though they did a lot of things... I don't think they got a lot of sleeping in.

There was way too much giggling...and to be honest I was a bit scared and hid in my room.... every now and then I would listen to see if it was safe to leave my room, but I was trapped almost until lunch the next day.   Well at least Megan loved her birthday party.

Some people like to put up their Christmas Decorations early... Way Early.  I am not sure where the find the time.  We were lucky to even start talking about it after Turkey Day.  ... but the time did come to bring out all the Christmas boxes. Including old faithful. The tree that is older than my kids (It might be time to get a new one).

And here are the volunteers.  Ready to get the decorations under way.  We added everything around the house and some lights in front.  And at the end the sun had gone down and we sat around the fireplace with some hot chocolate and talked about some Christmases Past.

This summer we got a chance to to get family passes at White Waters for the family at a really good discount.  So, what does that mean for this merry band of kids and their two chauffeurs?  Yes, you guessed it, we went to White waters as much as possible.  With the season passes we also got a bunch of coupons so that we were able to head to the water park with some friends, so the kids hot turns picking who they wanted to bring.

So on this particular day [September] it was Sophia's day and she invited her friend Kyden.  The kids had such a great tan.... and I actually started to lose some of my pale white skin this summer. 

We had so much fun at White waters this summer that we are definitely going to have to do this again.   And of course the kids agree.

Like the tales of old where the mad scientist brings to life a new creature...  Well kind of like that.  Sophia got a chance to create a new teddy bear.  From warming up the heart and filling the bear with stuffing.  Paola and Sophia got a chance to go on a little date to use Sophia's "Build A Bear" gift that she had been holding on to.

They had a great time of course and Sophia made a new friend... [Literally]  Click on the picture or click HERE to follow the whole saga.

There is one thing that you can't stop... no matter how hard you try, you can't stop your age.  Well at least I know that I can't.  Last month [Aug] I hit the big 40 !!!  And that wheel of time never stopped rolling.

The whole family has been on a kick lately.  More family bible time... A little more order in the house... More exercise... and a little healthier eating.  The family has lost over 40 pounds.  Everyone is doing really good.  So as you can see in the picture, no birthday cake.  Just a healthy sandwich and some carrots.  

Last month we got a chance to take a little trip to Stone Mountain.  The climb up the mountain seemed harder than I remember, and the temperature was a bit warm.  But we did prevail, and it was well worth it.

At the top of the mountain awaited us a beautiful site.   The rays of the sun punching through the clouds was awesome!!

It was good to see that the climb up the mountain is getting a bit easier each time.  We are keeping active and getting fitter.  Soon it will be hard to keep up with these kids.

The sun was setting... and the fridge was empty.  What were we to do?  So Matthew and I went out to forage for some food like real men.  That's right.  To the nearest store.

What do you think Matthew was in the mood to eat? 

Sometimes as I work away the hours to support my loving family, I wonder what they are up to.  Wife working hard with all the things that she is in charge of.  She does too much... and then I reflect upon my kids, and wonder if they are studying hard and making every moment count to excel in their work....

Then I get this picture from Sophia's teacher about what they did that day.  Looks like they had a visit from a Black Hawk Helicopter!!   I don't remember having school days like that!!

In days long gone, (in a galaxy far far away),... I remember a time when the muppets ruled the world.  Well at least they ruled the living room every time the show was on the air.  The Muppet show...never did I think that they would seep in to the lives of my kids.  I thought their days may be slipping past...  Even my most favorite of muppets:  Beaker....

So when the latest Muppet movie came out... I did have some doubts if it would live up to the tradition of the original show.  My son actually wanted to go see it so we made a night of it.  And low and behold, there was a little sitting area where Matthew would rest just in time to capture this picture for posterity.

And the legend lives on.  Matthew loved it ... and wants the movie when it comes out. 

What is in a name... or a last name.  There aren't too many Fachisthers left in this world but in this photo we capture a few. 

This next generation I am sure will surprise us...  You can just see it in the smiles.

I have never figured out why they call it a bowl...  Super bowl...  Science bowl... Reading bowl.  But what I do know is that it takes a lot of hard work on everyone's part to make it a success.  And in today's world, the definition of 'success' can be very different from person to person.  What do I call a 'success'?  Well it really is not about winning the competition.... or having the highest score for me.  To me, I try to step back and see the 'success' as the hard work and effort that is put in.  I tend to see it as the team working and practicing together.  You can see some of it in the reactions, when the team wins, ... and when they lose.

Matthew was part of the reading bowl this year.  And the whole team did great.  They put in a lot of practice as a team every single week.  And Matthew also did a lot of hard work (reading and studying) on his own as well.  Of course Paola also helped out a lot with the practice questions and reviews.

This year, they won first place in the the competition at RCA for the county which means they went on to the next regional level.  There the team won second place and also went to the next level of competition.  At that regional level they came in fourth place and did not move to the next level.  Matthew was a bit hard on him self and was not happy with the results.  All that hard work and effort that he and the whole team had put in.  We had to chat...  and remind him that team did amazingly!!  They hit a new level for the school that had not been reached before.  Even if the team had never passed the first competition, the 'success' was in the team work and in the experience.  And that follows you through the rest of your life long after the trophy is gone.

The other day we were in the front... throwing and attempting to catch the old Spiderman Nerf football.  Matthew was trying to teach me the proper technique to no avail.  When I noticed the grass... it really was not-green.   It was dry and stiff.  Running around barefoot was not as nice at it used to be.

I know that it is supposed to be something like winter... although this year it really has been a lot not-winter-like.  But I saw this picture from last year.  It was a warmer time.  The kids were a little younger and they had some friends over.  But the grass... man it was greener.  No chemicals or service or anything.. It was by no means a great lawn.  But it was soft to the feet... and it made the memories sweet.

A couple of weeks ago we went to the annual Chick-Fil-A Father/Daughter date night.  This was the second year that we have been able to go and we had a blast!!  Normally I am very suspicious of those Cows.  They always seem to be plotting and planning something.  But I have to say that this time they seem to have gotten right on the mark.

There is something about that time with the girls where they can be the center of the world.  Where they can dress up... and its all about them.

The place was well prepared. Table cloths... flowers... balloons.   The works.  They even came to our table and took our orders.  But I really think that their favorite part was when we shared multiple desserts.

In the end it was not about the food...or the flowers... or even the awesome milkshakes.  My hope is that the girls remember how they are to be treated when they grow up (much much much later).  

Mere words can not describe how slack I have been on posting on the Blog.  There are no excuses.  Except perhaps that I have fallen in to a deep hibernation.  Well, ok, maybe not.  Tons of things have happened in the months of absence from the posting world.... and where do I begin.  

So I guess that I first need to organize the thousands of pictures that have been accumulated.  But oh yes... I am on it now!!  

This past Saturday we got a chance to get out there an run the annual Fuzz run in Covington, GA.  A great little family run for a good cause [“Police Who Care Fund"].  The kids did great on the Fun Run... and the parents survived the 5k.

I was happy with my time compared to last year.  I did notice that once I get in to the 70+ age group, I will be able to dominate due to lack of participants!!  ... just a few more years to go.  Well on a furrier note, there was a special guest appearance by the famous Chick-Fil-A cow.

The cow was not fast enough to escape Sophia's crushing hug.  Better luck next time, Cow!!

This Summer we have been trying to stay more active.  What that usually means is that I end up carrying a lot more stuff and everyone is sweating. 

One of the places that we have hit a couple of times this summer was Stone Mountain.  I brisk climb for a nice family picnic.  The first thing we have to do is convince the kids that this is really a cool thing to do... even when it is really hot.  DON'T FORGET THE WATER...

We did make it up there... with not too much fuss.  The view up there was great, and the kids were proud of their accomplishment.  After a nice (hot) climb to the top, the hunger sets in.  We all gather under a little tree for some lunch.

The lunch was good... not just good, but also enhanced by the strong desire to eat after climbing that mountain.  As we sat under the tree and enjoyed the breeze and the lunch we started talking about Jonah... and his little tree.  Matthew pretended to be a worm and started eating our tree. 

Johan 4:9 ...But God said to Jonah, “Is it right for you to be angry about the plant [tree]?”

As I was looking back at the backlog of pictures I have not had time to post about, I came across these photos.  While the kids and Paola where in Ecuador, I did get a chance to do some bike riding in Arabia mountain.  And a couple of my rides actually took me to Panola park and back.  There were some really nice places to ride through...

I had actually gotten to this bridge with the kids at some point in the past.  They did complain about how long it took to get up that hill... but they did love riding back down that hill.

There are some cool bridges and crosswalks on the path.  But I do recall that in this summer heat, I contemplated jumping off the bridge in to the creek below. 

 There were TONS of rabbits.  Well not actually a measurable ton, but rabbits seemed to be everywhere.  Every time I saw one I thought about how Sophia would love to see them.

And then there was this wall.  I am not sure what this place used to be... perhaps some storage while they mined the rocks.  Who knows.  But it reminds me of Matthew.  He swore this was a prison from a long time ago.  I think I have a picture somewhere with him behind the bars.

Oh, am I a little late with these? 

Well I guess it can't be helped.  I was doing some clean up and ran across some of these pictures.  Click on the picture to go to the gallery and live the past!  ... some things never change... some things change too quickly.

Enjoy!  ... I know that I did.

The local library had a chess program for the kids for a few weeks, and Paola thought it would be great to enroll them.  At first I had my doubts about how interested they would be in chess at their age, but it was really amazing how quickly the wanted to jump in... learn the moves... and start destroying their opponents.

At one of the classes, the local Rockdale paper was taking some pictures for an article the wrote.  Little Sophia made the picture in the paper.  Here is a scan of the article... It did come out a little rough.

I hope they use these new found powers for good... 

Here we have one of the worlds finest bakers (under 8) working his craft.  This is Matthew (at the end of 2009) performing his magic in the kitchen.

Since he was able to walk (7 months old) he has had a passion for eating... and cooking good food.  The best part about all of this is when we all get to sit down and share in the good cooking.  I will have to ask him for his recipe. 

I know, I know... I am so on it that I am posting about our Youth+Kids Ski trip from February in December!!  I am such a slacker.  

Click on the picture above or HERE to see some cute pictures from our trip earlier this year.  We had a great time with the youth and our kids also had a great time.  It was the first time that they had ever gone skiing and they did awesome! 

A few months back... in a galaxy far far away there lived a bed head monster.  This terrible beast would attack any resting soul without notice.  As you can see Sophia and I were both victims of the beast.  Sophia was a bit 'lolly pop' while I seem to be a bit 'Elvis'. 

I found this picture from a few months back and could not remember why we had gotten up so early (dark outside)... but I am sure it was for a very good reason.  If you will notice in this picture, Sophia seems way to happy for it being this early...  I must ask  her how she does it.

Last Saturday we got the call.  It was time to run down to the Airport to pick up a couple of special people.  Paola's parents (The "Abuelos") were arriving.  Paola and Matthew stayed at home so they could finish up some last minute preparations so it was up to me and the girls to give the Abuelos a warm welcome.

While Abuelo Humberto had to go and guard the luggage, I was able to get this rare photo of the girls (not jumping around like crazy monkeys) with Abuela Isabel.

It's really nice to have them with us.  It has been too long, and we look forward to having them with us for quite some time.

Last night we had a chance to visit Tio Juanito and Tia Debbie.  Since Paola's parents are in town, we loaded up the wagon and headed over for some fun and delicious food!

As usual it was a mad house!!  But I mean that in the best of ways.  The kids were running around and laughing and playing.  Everyone had a great time.  It was really good to see and hang out with everyone again.  We really should do it more often. 

A couple of weekends ago, we got a chance to go to Six Flags.  No just any trip, but a trip earned with the cold hard sweat or our kids and their diligent reading.  That's right.  They were rewarded for there fabulous (and voluminous) reading.  And some of the nice teachers provided a couple of tickets for the parents (so that someone would watch the kids while they ran around the park).

First things first, we had to decide what we were going to do while we where there.

Then we had to find all the Loony Tunes character and harass them for pictures.  It was key that we all stick together so that we did not lose anyone.

...especially not the parents.  Good thing there is a place for that.

Click on any of the pictures or HERE to see the rest of the pictures we have from that day.

This year Sophia is in public school kindergarten.  How quickly they grow up.  This is a picture of Sophia the week prior to school where they had a Kinder Camp to prepare the little ones to be acclimated to the new big kid environment.

She did not skip a beat.  She loves her new school and her new friends.  Thank goodness that we didn't have any issues with the change over.  Now if we can just get them ready for the college entry exams... 

Each Summer, the kids seem to be heading back to school sooner and sooner.  This year the kids started their classes back on July 29th.  Thats right... you heard me:  July 29th?!?!  I figure its only a few years before they are just going to school year round.

I think they were all ready to get back to school.  Don't get me wrong, they did tons of fun stuff this summer.  But I think they also like the structure and hanging out with their school friends.  Sophia was very excited about school since this was her first year at the "Big" school with her brother and sister.

I am sure that it will only be a few weeks before they are back to wishing for the summer... Just like we used to when we were their ages.

Last month we had a little visit from Aunt (Tia) Karin and Cousin (Prima) Liliana.  It was great seeing them again.  Where does the time fly,   The kids picked up like they had just seen each other a few days ago... wile the parents stood back and wondered where they got all the energy.  Below is Sophia and Liliana with the rock star sunglasses...  who do they get their fashion sense from?

And of course... while I was hard at work, the kids got a chance to go out and enjoy a little ice cream on such a hot summers day...  I wish they would have saved me a cone... even all melted, it would have been delicious.

We are so glad they could spend some time with us... We hope to see them again soon..  [We love you guys!!]

Where did the school year go?  The time has blown by so quickly and now the future is on the horizon.  We have not known the youths for very long... but how quick we grew attached to them.  How proud we are of all the hard work and accomplishments.  Last Sunday the graduating seniors where in charge of the worship portion of the service, and it was awesome.  We pray and hope for the plans that God has for these young adults.

After the service there was some great time of fellowship.  We got a chance to chat with everyone and even had a surprise from a certain dog that was not my schools mascot. 

Don't let Sophia's innocent little smile fool you.  We had to stop her from pulling out the dog's tale.  She thought it was the funniest thing ever.  And then of course the other kids wanted to do the same thing.

The bible speaks of how the church is our family... And its times like this that you realize how true that is.  I'm going to miss a bunch of these kids when they go off to college.

The previous season of basketball came to completion a couple of months ago... and Soccer season has just begun for Matthew, Megan, and Sophia.

The games change... the uniforms change... the kids grow... but one thing always remains the same.  They will always be our little angels.  [That and the driving them every week to practice... that never gets old.. 

Earlier this month, was a very interesting time.  In a very rare show of snow force, the blizzard of 2010 was upon us!  The kids were very excited about the school days, but more importantly, they were very excited about actual snow (accumulation).  A rare thing in Georgia indeed!

There was snow enough to play in ... (and Sophia's favorite : to throw!)  We got a chance to slide in it ... make angels... and almost make a decent snow man.   But that may have been more of a skill thing, than a snow thing.

This was the first serious snow that the kids (and Little Mac) had ever seen.  ...and good preparation for the ski trip that followed the next week (I just have to go through the pictures).

Lately there has been a lot of time with Matthew and Megan on the basketball courts.  They sure do love to play around.  And they even get a little bit of basketball in from time to time.  We are just glad that they are having so much fun as well as learning some good team skills.  That will come in handy no matter what they do in life...  I guess at some point I should put some basketball pictures here... but instead, I wanted to post about Princess Sophia today.

A couple of weeks ago, the girls where watching Disney's Ice Princess movie.

So they were showing one of the skating scenes near the end, where the entire competition depends on this one performance.  It was at that time that Sophia looked at me and said "...this is so beautiful, its making my eyes cry..."

She looked so sad and cute when she said that , that I had to cover my smile so she would not get mad at me.  Sometimes Sophia is the most interesting mix of serious and adorable... so much so that its hard to know how to react.

Back in November (Yes, I know... I am a little late as usual) the kids got a chance to show us some of the songs that they had been practicing.

They performed for us a beautiful collection of worship music.  I was surprised at how well they all did.  I remember back to my younger years... and the singing that we did (and I am thankful to God that Matthew sounds better than me). 

Before the end of last year (again) it was time for Daddy Donut Day at my kids School.  It is much better than Daddy Broccoli day... trust me.  You don't want any of that..

I wish I had more time to visit them at school and go to these kind of events.  They enjoy them so much (and so do I).  After the healthy donuts, we got a chance to go to Matthew's class to say hi.  A great group of kids.  Megan came with me since we dropped her off after this at her class room.  I wonder if years from now they will think back to these things?... or if they will look at the pictures one day and remember...

The cold weather reminds me of warmer days (odd isn't it?)  I found some pics on my blackberry from when we were last at a nearby park (Johnson Park) and got a chance to take our dog (Little Mac) out for some fun.  A good friend, Tracy, came with his two dogs.  One of them we call Big Mac (Ha... I crack myself up).

It's funny how dogs are like little kids...  they want to run and play and before you know it all your time has disappeared.

The kids had a great time... the dogs had a great time... and the adults?  Well they seem to have a good time watching the others have a good time.  How our perception of time changes as we get older.  Those wondrous memories... how quickly they pass.  Hold On To Them!!

Mission Frog is always watching... always waiting.  I think this was in the airport on the return from the Jamaica Mission Trip.  Here we have Paola looking at a picture of one of our kids...  and Froggy wants to see also.

Have you ever noticed how easy these things come to this next generation?  How easily they are able to pick up on how technology works... and use it as if it is second nature?

Here is a picture of Matthew building out a system.  This is not the first one that he has built out, but it is the first one that he has built out from scratch by himself.  I have been there to guide him on previous hardware changes... but on this one, he only needed me to get the empty case out of the box.  Wow... age 7, and already building out a computer...  I did not get my first computer until I was a teenager (let alone build one out).

But he did not stop there.  Afterward, he installed Windows 7 on this system and a bunch of other stuff.  Oddly enough, he now has Windows Seven on his home machine before I have it on my home machine.  Matthew is also hard at work studying for the A+ Certification that he wants to get before the end of the year.  Not sure if there will be enough time... but we will see.

Silly long work filled days.  A person must work and get the job done... and there I was doing my part.

...minding my own business, when the Cup attacked.  What could I do but defend myself...  Well OK, my co-worker thought it would be funny taking this picture of me at work.  Some times its the silly moments that make the long work hours bearable.

Ahh.... I had forgotten about this picture.  When Sophia turned four, we got a chance to have the party with a few friends and some horses.

The horse looks a little startled, most likely from the line of kids waiting for their turn.  The kids of course all had a blast.  How the girls love the princess horsey ride.

This picture is from a few months ago.  We were rushing out of the church on a busy Sunday (as usual), and thought it would be nice to get a picture by the front of RBC.

It really is hard to get a good picture of the kids... dressed up... not setting things on fire. 

Some time past, we got a chance to visit my brother for some pizza where he works part time.  "Avondale Pizza"  The pizza was really good, and the atmosphere was very interesting.  One of the things to note is the little knight below.

The odd thing is that this little night was in a corner behind a both.  But that did not seem to stop the kids from wanting to play with him.  I call these, the Knights of the round Pizza!

Where does the time fly?  I was looking at the blog and noticed that I had not posted in over a month.  Well we cant have that, can we?

Here is a picture of Sophia and Cousin Liliana, when Tia Karen and Liliana came to vist from California.  It was so good to see them, and the kids all had a blast.  Cherish these moments... time slips away all too quickly.

Last month we got a chance to take a quick weekend get away to visit Paola's brother (and family) in Florida.  Nice warm sunny warm beautiful warm Florida. 

While we were there, we were able to get together and celebrate his son, Gabriel's Birthday!

If you look closely .... you will notice that there is already chocolate on Gabriel's face.  I think all the kids had an abundantly healthy serving of sweets this day.  They all had a lot of fun with the games, bouncy, little pool.  And after all that sugar, I remember all the kids crashing that night (and some of the adults).

Life is busy and always packed, so we don't get to visit very often, but its great when we have a chance to get together.  God has blessed our family!

A few months ago (before schools end), Matthew and his class got a chance to go to the zoo.  Paola was happy to tag along and assist (and that also meant that Sophia and Megan would also get a chance to tag along).

Here is Matthew with one of his humble subjects.  As you can see, Matthew practically has this subject eating out of his hand.

Here we have Megan.  She seems a little apprehensive about this crazed bird of pray.  Luckily I think there is enough food to keep him subdued until the field trip is over.

Here is Sophia in her element.  She has always been our little Dr. Doolittle.  She could have wondered around the Zoo for days... and never noticed the rest of the class had gone home.  A good time was had by all... and no one was left behind.

My favorite Suegra just had a birthday last week [July 8th]!  [Suegra = Mother in Law]

Here is Suegra Isabel with some birthday cake on her nose.  Here with Maria Daniela and Maria Paula (Two of her granddaughters).  Isabel is such a wise and wonderful women, we are so glad that God keeps blessing her and others through her.  Happy Birthday Suegra!

So there's a new puppy in town.  Well, actually its the first puppy we have had as a family.  We have had cats before, and still have Sarah (Who I am sure is loving the new addition to the family)

Little Mac comes to us from a universe far far away... in a little unknown planet called Conyers, Georgia.  Actually a good friend of ours (Tracy) brought him by and though he would be a great addition to the Fachisthers family.

After some serious debating and analysis ("PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE, CAN WE KEEP HIM!!!") from our kids, we decided to accept Little Mac in to our clan...  The interesting part will be see the loving bond develop between Little Mac and Sarah

We have some great friends who keep our kids from time to time.  They are wonderful people, and I don't just mean that because they keep our kids (and survive)... 

Here we have Matthew versus the leaf blower...It is hard to tell who will win.

Here we have Megan versus the leaf blower.... but between you and me, I think our little chatter box has got this one hands down.

Well a few weeks ago, Soccer season came to an end.  Megan and Matthew were on two different teams, and have been really playing great and loving the game!

One of the mom's donated trophies for all the players on Matthew's team (very nice of her).  Here they are showing of the new trophy.  I was out of town on a mission trip for the last game... but I was there in spirit.  They are growing up so fast... even Sophia wanted to get in on the games (but spent much of her time just catching bugs).  Maybe next year Sophia.

A few months ago, the kids got invited to a Birthday party.  But not just any birthday party... it was a Girl's Tea Birthday Party.

Of course the girls had a blast.  There were tons of cool stuff for the kids.  Now, I must say that it being a girl's birthday tea party, it was more geared to girls.  But that would not stop the boys from having fun with the games and prizes.

Here is Matthew showing off some of his bling that he had collected from the tables... Cool idea, but it might look more menacing if they weren't pink and red. 

Ah yes, the season of basketball has come to an end.  Matthew was not a towering giant in this sports of heights, but he did enjoy the games, the friends, and (most of all) the snacks that came at the conclusion of every game.

Matthew had a great season.  His skills were improving and his shooting had gotten a lot better.  But what stood out most was how Matthew loved to steal the ball.

Sometimes  a little too much.  But I guess at the first grade level, its better to focus on the fun they were all having.

Although there were a couple of times when parents got a little over zealous with their kids playing... Note To Self:  Never scream at my kids while they are playing about mistakes they just made.  The last thing I want is for my kids to have bad memories about these events and games which are supposed to be fun.

I think back way back way way back... (if I had a decade for each 'way back' I think I covered them all).   So I think back to a time when I was in school... and I was young (yes, no beard yet).  I recall having show and tell or a little one page report on some person in my life.

But then I see the project that Matthew had to do and the requirements, and I am impressed.  I am so glad that Paola is home to help guide and encourage our kids during these projects.  Working at them little by little so that it does not overwhelm them near the due dates...  now if only I could get my beautiful wife to help me on my big work projects... 

This is a picture from when we were at the girls school (Rockdale Baptist Church) for a show that each of the classes was putting on.  After the spectacular performance we were able to go back stage and spend some quality with these super stars.

This reminds of a conversation I had with Sophia a few weeks ago.  I had noticed that she had some scratches on her legs...

[Briam]   "Sophia... how did you get those scratches on your legs?"

[Sophia: Age 3] "I was practicing my kung fu on the cat..."

It would be some time before I stopped laughing enough to ask her to please not practice her Kung Fu on our little old cat...

A couple of months back (yeah yeah, I know I am very late with the pics), the girls got a chance to go to a birthday Tea Party.

Of course I (and Mathew) was not allowed to attend.  Something about "No Boys Allowed".

From the pictures we were allowed to see it looked like everyone had a great time and the layout was spectacular!   They even had those little cakes with the fancy names.  I wish I would have gotten a chance to taste one.

Here is the birthday girl (Ellie) and her mom (Marilee)They grow up so fast, but these are the memories that they will remember.  I guess a little part of us will always remember our

As I was catching up to the long list of things I have not yet posted about, I ran across the pictures from the Tennessee Aquarium (Nov 2008).  We had a chance to go and meet my sister (Ivana) and Nicky.

Click on either of the pictures to see a lot more from this day.  As you will notice the picture above, the kids got out of control and started destroying the sidewalks.

If you dig through the pictures carefully, you will find the picture of me almost losing my hand to a ferocious beast! 

Ok ok... I know that I am a bit late on putting some of Megan's birthday pictures up on the blog.  Her birthday was in November.  But I have a good excuse!  I was abducted by aliens...

Well... any who.  I wanted to do a quick post and put down some of the pictures we have.  We had a chance to invite some friends from church.  All of which had bunch of kids.  That makes the numbers grow very quickly.  Click on the picture or Click HERE to see.

Almost a national holiday, Daddy Donut Day was upon us.  Before the holiday I got a chance to go spend some time with my son Matthew at his school.  There was enough sweet donuts to put me in to anaphylactic shock!

Here we have Matthew enjoying a nice healthy donut.  It was a good turn out, and it was interesting to see the kids in their natural habitat... roaming almost freely. 

Matthew gave me a little tour of some of his popular hang out spots around the school.  He seemed to know everyone at the whole school.  All the teachers knew him by name... and so many kids.  I know I was never that popular at school.  I got a chance to take a picture of Matthew and his class mates.  It seems like a very good bunch.

A few months ago, we were at a small activity at Lakeview.  It was like a little Holiday festival with Hot Chocolate and face painting.    That and an overwhelming truck load of sugar laced treats that was sure to work up a frenzy in the most reserved of kids.  But not my well behaved kids... (yeah right!!)

Megan:  "That is a beautiful flower with a crystal star in the middle." 

Megan: "That is my butterfly... isn't it cute?"

Sophia:  "I don't remember what that is but it was very pretty"
Megan:  "Sophia you don't know what that is... thats just a heart with curls..."

Sophia: "That is a cute spider... I want to keep it forever!"

They passed out from sugar overdose that night.  All their talks about wanting to keep the paint for at least a few weeks or days on quickly faded...  By morning they awoke from their sugar induced comas and we were able to clean up the faces before they became clear headed enough to demand that we hire art restoration experts.  That was a close call.  Lesson learned?  Always carry handy wipes when on the run...

We just got home this morning from a Christmas visit to see some family in Miami... and we came back to a stack of mail (not email).  Among the ads, spam and offers of financial freedom was this little gem...

Our Niece Liliana and Tia Karen sent us this  precious picture.  How quickly they grow up.  This is a picture of Liliana who is three (if I am not mistaken).  The kids loved this picture.  We send our love!!

At the end of October (2008) we got a chance to go to Arabia Mountain with some good friends of ours (The Lents).  Its a cool state park area, that I am surprised we have not gone to before... since we live so close.

Click on the pic or HERE to see more picture from our outing.

Where does the time go?  They seem to be growing up so quickly.  It seems like just a few days ago we were changing dozens of diapers per day...    Well I guess its not all bad that they grow up.

Even from their early days, their personalities seem so different.  They all come with their own idiosyncrasies, quirks, moods, and even hair styles.  Although I am starting to thinking that the last item may not be as important.

I guess what is really important is mitten selection.  That and "TIME".  No, not the magazine.  "Briam, of course time is important?"  Yeah, we all KNOW that time is important, but its much harder to do it than to say it.

The work week does get hectic, and time seems a bit limited, but on the weekend, we tend to have more opportunities to do things as a family.

Here is a picture of us all all ready to go out for a rare treat at McDonald's (breakfast).  I am normally in charge of breakfast on Saturdays, and I was feeling especially lazy.  Where is Paola?  (She is taking the pictures...)

Megan seems to be the one that really tends to love the eating out for the food, where as Matthew and Sophia I think just like the concept of being out and about.

As long as they don't go berserk and drive us crazy, its usually a great time out.  Talking about deep world shattering issues like their politics, global warming, and finger painting:  Its never a dull moment.

Can you spot the trapped parent in the picture above?  I am just glad we did not have to call the fire department to get me out of there.  How truly blessed we are... and how sad it is when we don't keep that in mind, because then we are really missing out.  Yeah, it is about 'time'.  And its not easy... but it is worth it. 

The fever for the flavor of a pringle... minus the crunchy chips, I guess.  Well thats what story time is like around the house.  The kids have a love of story time.  I know that Paola gets more chances to read them the story... but more and more it is the kids who get to read the stories to us.

Well, perhaps when they read the stories, perhaps they dont get all the words right... (or even perhaps any of the words), but the stories are very interesting.  These pictures all come from the kids personal bible story time.

Here we have Matthew reading a little deeper.  But you cant really dig deep without a nice hot cup of coffee... (or maybe that was Paola's).

Sometimes the story time leads to some interesting questions.  Sometimes quiet bible time is not so quiet.  But I guess its good that we are working with these habits at a young age.  Now if only we could get them to clean their rooms... 

What a crazy busy day yesterday was.  I hope to post a little more about Cuba later today, but first things first.  The other day I was heading to work early early early, and my kids happen to be awake.  Sometimes they will get up just to give me a goodbye hug/kiss before I go off to work.  Well, I give all the kids a hug and a kiss and tell them to be good and to have a great day. 

Well, I am at the door and Megan had followed me to close the door behind me and she says "Daddy, you be good today... and try not to get fired."  Hahaha... I am not sure where she picked up a line like that, but it did make my morning.  I told her I would try my best not to get fired today.  But in all reality, with so many blessings at home, how could I be down even if I was fired today.  The Lord will provide... always.  In a book I was reading the other day (Facing your Giants), one of the lines jumped out at me.  “You will never know that Jesus is all you need until Jesus is all you have…”

Last month there was a big project that Matthew had to do for his school.  It was called "All About Me"  They had a few months to work on it, so it was a pretty big project for them.

Matthew did great on his project!!  It looked great.  And all the information on it had to be hand written.  We were so proud of his hard work.  Matthew was able to put together tons of information on all the different parts of the project.  But the biggest part (which I wish I could have seen) was the presentation of this information to the whole class.

He had practiced over and over until he knew all the information by heart.  Matthew really does have a good memory... and with a splash of charm and pleasant smile, he delivered his presentation.  He did so well that they even choose his presentation out of the whole class to display in the library.  And check out that cool pointer that he used during the presentation.... I wonder if he will let me borrow it.

Ah finally made it to first grade!!  Of course Matthew says its old hat now.  He has his own alarm clock.  He gets ready all by himself.  He focuses on getting the work done.  But what does he miss while he is out and about?  ...What are his sisters up to on days they don't go to school? 

Well, maybe some days are more exciting than others... but we always feel that when we are not there, was the day that they did the coolest thing ever!!  This day was just about towers.

The girls did play some nice games while Matthew was out.  I guess they needed to practice a bit so that they could surprise him with their mad ninja like skills when he got back.  Of course like all fun games... the inevitable happens.

Once the blocks come crashing down... some smiles turn to frowns.  But I am hopeful that they will recover and live to play another day.  Because this too shall pass.

There are little things in life that we take for granted... and I guess that is ok.  But then there are big things in life that we take for granted, and that really is not ok.  Sometimes we need a smack to the head to remind us not to ignore the important things in life...

We have been pretty good at doing bible stories with the kids...and also a kids devotional every couple of days.  They love it, and participate eagerly.  Its hard to do this all the time, but I think we are doing good if we are getting to it three or four times a week.

Now that Matthew is getting older and reading like a college student, he has been reading more during our family sharing time.  And now that Matthew is in 1st grade, he is also moved to a new class in Sunday school.  So, on  the first day of the new class, the students all got a new Bible.  Not a kiddie bible will mostly pictures, but a real full bible (with some pictures).  Matthew was ecstatic! 

He was jumping in to bible verses and doing memorization.  He was asking questions and asking where to find things... Have I grown so old that I do not remember that level of joy?

Now, I (the father) am being motivated by Matthew (the son).  He is teaching me the appreciation that I have started to take for granted.  Is this not what sharing the gospel is supposed to be like?

Here we have Matthew reading a bible story to his sisters.  Its a new shiny present that far surpasses any of the others he has received.  It truly is THE GIFT.

It seems as if the days of summer are slipping away and school is on the horizon.  Its not just the tax free shopping day that reminds me either...  Ok, well maybe it is.  That and Paola running around buying school supplies was a big clue...

Here is a pic of the kids at a school function with Matthew kindergarten teacher:  Ms Gamble.  She is AWESOME!!  Constantly challenging Matthew.  Which is not easy by any means.  Of course the new year will bring on a new teacher.

The girls will also still be at the same pre-school (Rockdale Baptist Church).  They also love their classes and teachers.  Not sure what changes this year will have for them.

They are growing up way to quickly.  So much so that sometimes it is hard to remember their ages... or maybe I am just getting old and forgetful.  What?  ...who said that?  

So I believe that my brother has the same allergic reaction that I have.  He is allergic to the phone... just like me, we are not much for the chit chat or the phone calls.  Some might say that most men are like this (and I would not disagree).  Well, so my brother Damian (Kurt) calls me last Wednesday.  What what?  Yeah.  Thats what I said.  We had not talked in a long time, and it was very nice to hear from him.  He is doing well, and looking forward to trying out some new business ventures soon.

Well, we were chatting and he mentioned he had taken some phone pics of Liliana since she had recently had a birthday.  He sent them to me so I thought I should share.  How quickly they grow up!!

Its great that the kids are all getting bigger and older... but somehow I can't help feel like I am older than the wind.  Specially when you start getting questions like "...who is fred flinstone?"  They say it will get easier... (yes, but for whom?)

I hope we get to go visit soon.  It would be very nice to see Lili, Karen, and Kurt.  I know that my parents are talking about going out there in a few weeks.  Maybe we can sneak on the trip with them.  Perhaps hide in the luggage.  Happy belated B-Day Liliana!!

There once was a little girl name Sophia.  She was a cute little three year kid with a great love for animals.  She was constantly asking if she could have different pets... from lions and wolves to turtles and rabbits.  From dogs and cats to horses and whales...  And like all smart parents who wish to avoid picking up poop after lions and horses, we told her that she could save up for a fish.

But not just a fish.  She would have to save up her allowance for the tank and food and possibly one little fish.  With the modest allowance that she received, we figured that would buy us enough time for her to lose interest in starting up her Noah's Ark.  But we had overlooked one thing.  For her 3rd birthday she had received some cash!!  Oh well.  At least with a stern father to take her shopping we would be able to control this situaion... Unfortunatly I was not as stern as I could have been, and we ended up buying more fish than we have space for....

So the aquarium started out with around 9 or 10 fish... We quickly realized they would not all survive in the little 1 Gallon tank.  We ended up donating a few... and a couple died.  We were not sure if it was the overpopulation situation or over feeding.. or what.  I think one of the fish had a drinking problem... anyways.  The end result is one fish in one little tank.  Sophia named this one "Goldie" ...and then renamed him later "Swimmy" ... I think there was yet a third name, but I don't recall what that was.

Every now an then, its good to have some 'do nothing' slack time.  Around our house we are usually go go go... so those rare moments are hard to find.  A few weeks ago, we have a lighter than normal weekend that started out with a quinceanera.  A what?  Thats right.  Its the right of passage party in Spanish culture for girls.  Kind of like a sweet sixteen party, but they do it at 15 years old.  And these get very elaborate.  Sometimes more than a wedding!  You should see the dresses and shoes and other stuff that goes along with this celebration ...

So, this picture above is us at the party.  We had a great time, and got a chance to see some friends that we had not seen in a long time.  Four or five hours later ... we were off to our home for some rest and relaxation.

Step one in achieving the perfect slack day is to find the perfect spot to lounge.  It is important that this location be comfortable and free from distractions (like work or ... a tribe of kids).

Step two is to make sure that when distractions come your way, that you don't let them knock you out of your lounging spot... as you can see in the picture, I lost this battle.

Step three... listen carefully.  This is the most important step of all.  Every now and then you need to STOP DOING STUFF!!  ... sit back. ...appreciate the blessings that you have been given.  Now go out there and SLACK!!

Ah summer time heat means summer time swimming.  We did not put the kids in swim classes this summer... due to global warming.  But that did not stop the kids from finding water (in large quantities)

So, one day while I was out having tons of fun (working at the office on computer stuff ... yeah, I know you are jealous), the kids got an invite for a little pool time with some good friends of ours.  Click on the Pic or HERE to check out some more pics.  Next time, I hope that I will be around so I can participate...

What a special day today is.  “What day would that be Briam?”  Well, I’m glad you asked.  Today is our wedding anniversary!!  Nine unbelievably blessed years of marriage.  Inevitably someone will ask the old question “…are you guys in as much love as you were when you were first marriage?”  Ok, well maybe not too many people will ask this.  But I will answer it anyways.  No andYes.  HaHa… well I hope my wife does not stop reading there or I am in trouble.  No?  Well, when we are out together, people no longer have to hose us down to get our attention…  I guess you could say we have matured a bit (Paola more than me).  Yes?  (This is where it gets sappy)  The Love I feel for Paola gets deeper and more meaningful each year.  It’s hard to describe, but I am constantly surprised by the growing amount of Love I feel for her.  It changes my attitudes… It changes my behavior… It changes my thoughts. (In a good way)

I grabbed some of my favorite family pictures and put them together.  They remind me of how blessed I truly am.  Sometimes I wonder how Paola puts up with me.  Each day is another gift that I did not earn or deserve.  I hope that as I grow older, I will keep that mindset and live each day that God has given me to the fullest!  Happy Anniversary Baby!!

What a great time we had going to Amicalola falls with our friends (The Lopez Family).  On top of it all, we actually survived with all the kids... (and without starting a forest fire).  We had to make the reservations a couple of months ago, and the only thing left was a lodge room.  I had thought that it was a cabin, but it turned out to be a really nice full service hotel/lodge.

The weather was perfect!  Warm and sunny... when the heat was to much, nearby shade and a cool breeze awaited.  We were able to get some hiking in from the base of the falls as well as from the top area (near the lodge).  The kids did great on the hiking (with our nice and leisure pace).

We had expected to be in a cabin, so we had brought a ton of food to cook.  So, for the meals, we headed out to the picnic areas where we could cook and grill out.  The food was great (Thanks to Jose who saved me from setting myself on fire)...  Also, there was a neat little animal museum and a couple of playground sets right near the area where we ate at.

Here is a picture of our friends that went with us.  We took tons of pictures, so click on the pictures or HERE to see more.  The one thing that we did not take pictures of was the tubbing we did.  On the last day there we went to Helen after check out.  We all went tubbing for a few hours followed by a picnic.  That was a lot of fun, and the camera was glad that it had not gone with us... for surely it would have been its demise.    So in its place, I will work on my etch a sketch drawings to try to capture the memories...  or not.  

Paola and the kids got a chance to go do some strawberry picking last week with the cousins.  Of course I really really wanted to go to work instead... what can you do?

Here we have the kids in their strawberry picking outfits with their strawberry buckets.  The sun was blazing, so they had to all use hats.  I did not even know we had that many hats.

Here we have Paola and Sophia going around the field.  I believe they are 'taste testing".... I hope the owner does not catch them.

The kids, of course, enjoyed the trip and talked about it for days.  Paola made some delicious strawberry jam from a bunch of the strawberries.  The trip was a great hit.  But I bet they are all still jealous that they were not able to hang out with me.... and work... the same daily work chores that I do everyday....  yeah.  I know behind those smiles and laughs, they are just hiding the regret.  For more pics click on any of the pics or click HERE.

Ah ... can you smell it in the air?  Graduations are among us!!  The future leaders of this world are stepping out in to the real world.

Here we have Ricky and his Magic Hat!!  I am sure he is now ready to conquer the world.  He even had a bout with fame!!  Check out Ricky on the big screen...

We are so proud of Ricky... and now we get to harass him every time we see him with "...now what are you going to do?"  

We also got a chance to go to Jonathon's graduation with a bunch of the youth we know that were graduation.  We had a great time.  It is amazing how quickly these kids group into adulthood.

Well, the weekend is almost upon us.  And Paola is heading out for a women's conference.  I wonder who is going to take care of the kids?  

I guess it will be me...  Well one thing is for sure.  I promised to try to squeeze in an escape to the sugar ice cream shop...  They are eager to use some of the birthday gift cards that were received (even the chica who did not have a birthday is eager).  It promises to be a nice quiet peaceful getaway.... or perhaps sheer collision of anarchy and sugar fueled mayhem.  Where would you place your bets?  

Matthew really enjoyed the tadpole Tia Karin gave him as a Christmas present.  He was super excited that finally he was going to see how his little new friend developed to be a little froggy.

He did feed him everyday as planned, but with probably the help of the younger sisters, the little buddy probably got too much to eat and died this past week.

He cried and cried.  He did not know what went wrong.  Sophia almost cried with him  ( she is an animal lover)  And finally Megan confessed that probably she gave him a little too much to eat. 

Luckily the tadpole is insured!  And as soon as Matthew is ready again we will be getting another one.

He was so happy, and then he was so sad.  I hope he is ready to try again.  I am trying to teach him that when we fail doing something, we keep trying until we achieve the goal.  It does not matter how many times we have to try, we try harder until we make it , until we do it right!  

I hope he gets encouraged soon!  ; )

Love,
Paola

A couple of weekends ago, we got a chance to celebrate Matthew (April 15th) and Sophia's (April 16th) birthdays.    Matthew just turned six years old and Sophia just turned 3 (going on 30)...   It turned out to be a beautiful sunny day.

 We had a few hundred of our closest friends.... ok, maybe not a few hundred (but with the amount of kids that came, it felt like a lot more).  

We had a great time, and the kids had a great time.  Some how you think that after all the fun and play they would be satisfied for months (or at least weeks) to come.  But our little Sophia asked me "Daddy, can we have another party tomorrow..."  When those great big eyes look up at me, what can I do but say "...ask your mother".    Well we took a bunch of pictures.  Click on the pictures above or click HERE  to see more pics.

A few weeks ago, Rockdale Baptist had a family camping trip... where?  Right in the churches back yard.  

I have not been camping in so long, I figured the camping skills would have the tent collapsing on us in our sleep.  We were lucky to have some set up help from the Burkeys... (and the loan of the equipment!).

We had a BLAST!!!  We had a lot of fun with the family time and the fellowship.  What the kids really loved the most were all the games we played.  Nothing like a potato sack to bring out the killer competitive streak in our little angles (and some of the adults).  And of course they loved the smores at the campfires that were set up at night.  A great time, and great memories with our family, and with our friends!!  Click on the pictures to see more or HERE.

The weather is getting nice.  We are even getting some rain here and there to help fight the drought that we find ourselves in.

Here is Megan and I last month when it was a bit cooler, but that doesn't seem to stop the kids from getting out and playing.

Here is Matthew a few weeks ago when after some practice, started riding his bike without the training wheels.  He loves it, even if there is the occasional fall from time to time.  He looks a bit big on the bike, we may need to get him a bigger bike soon.

Here is Sophia on her old bike.  She did indeed get a larger tricycle for her birthday a few weeks ago... (I will have to get to the B-Day pics soon)

And here is the clan.  Dressed and ready for a day of worship.  The kids were a bit reluctant to pose for the picture.  They were ready to go play in their classes.

But a little bribery (or threat) helps to get some smiles in the picture.  My Girls!

A couple of weeks ago, we got a chance to kidnap the nephews and niece, (plus the grandparents) and escape to the Mountains.  We were up in north Georgia near Helen.

We had a great time... boating, playing games, eating, more eating, .... more games... bike riding....  It was a good reminder of how old I am getting.  Or perhaps I should of how Young I am no longer.

And there is a picture I never thought I would ever ever ever ever see....   Even the abuelos showed us a thing or two on this trip.  We took tons of pictures so click on the photos to see more or click HERE.

With the ever climbing gas prices... comes the challenge:  Make More efficient Cars!!!  But that is easier said than done.  One promising option for the taste future has been found.  It is still in the early development stages, but with a little more development and funding, it may be a real potential for the future.

Its call the Breakfast Mobile (trademark pending).  Composed of a waffle center, banana tires (with a spare), and strawberry comfort center.  Add a little whip cream on top, and who can resist this ride?  This baby does zero to sixty... if you are eating while driving in another car...  Here we have proud creator, Matthew Fachisthers.  He is dedicated to test driving this until he finds a break through in fuel/motor efficiency!  (or until he has a tummy ache..)

End of March, there was a fund raiser / Art Show at the girls school.  They had been making things all quarter and it was time to show them off.  Such creative ideas from the teachers.  There was a ton of stuff to look at, and a chance to buy some of the art work in various forms.

Click on the picture or HERE to see more of the stuff that they worked on.

Last weekend we were able to kidnap some of our friends kids and head down to Brook Run Park.  Its a giant park in Sandy Springs. 

Tons to do and play with.  Jumping around like a mad man... swinging from all the play sets....  and the kids had fun too!  We played the morning away, and even had time to have a picnic at the picnic tables...

After a hard day of play play play, who could deny a little ice cream break?  What kid doesn't like ice cream?  Here is Paola, Megan, and Grace enjoying a cool refreshing treat...  Once we finished off the ice cream(s), it was time to run.  There was a birthday party for one of Grace's friends, and it was a jumping place!

I don't know where the kids get their energy.... Above we have Daniel and Noah showing us how its done!  Paola and I jumped and ran through the mazes.  I half expected to find some cheese at the end of the mazes, but time and time again I was tricked... and left empty handed.   We had a great day...  and took a bunch of great pics.  Click on the pictures, or click HERE to see more pictures from that day...

Once upon a time, there were three little pigs.  These were not ordinary pigs, these were money savvy pigs with a lesson to teach.  Each little pig comes with four sections.  One section for saving, one for spending, one for donations, and one for investing (Tithe).

The first little pig is red and belonged to Sophia.  Sophia's dreams for his spending money is pretty much anything that is a high concentration of sugar covered in something sweet.

The second little pig is pink and belongs to Megan.  Her spending plan also includes candy of some sort, but she also has some higher goals and dreams that include some princess coloring books.

And last but not least we have the blue little pig.  This little pig belongs to Matthew.  His spending goals point to a new video game for his Nintendo DS.  Or possible another Wii game... who knows what the future will hold for these kids.  These cool little pigs are helping us to teach some important money lessons to our kids.  Not only about savings and donation to the needy.  But also about how investing in God's kingdom is #1 priority.  We give that part first from our allowances.  A lot of good learning opportunity and the kids seem to really be enjoying it.  Hope these good lessons and habits stick.

Oh rare indeed.  Rare that moisture of any kind would fall from the sky in a frozen state.  Probably so infrequent that the little ones don't remember what snow looks (or taste like).  So everyone puts on the gear....

All bundled up, they poke it... they catch it... Maybe not enough to make any good size snowball... but they still try to throw it (at me..)

Click on either of the pictures or HERE to see more pictures.  I did pull this picture of Megan out the bunch.  Look at that grin.  I wonder what that could mean.  This was before we ran outside to play in the snow.  Maybe she is thinking "OH I am going to get Matthew good with a giant snowball!!"  .... the world may never know.

For some time I have known about the Pod people out there.  Waiting.  Watching.  Plotting.  Their plans for world domination are being finalized, and it is only a matter of time before they start their attacks.  But for the most part, we have been powerless to find them and stop them.  No evidence that they exist... until now!  Check out these pictures...and you will be convinced!   Click on the pics to see more from the pod people headquarters.  This alien base has been cleverly disguised as a kids museum called "Imagine IT".

In lieu of all this undeniable evidence, we have gathered our greatest scientist to put together a plan to stop these evil invaders.  We have thrown all our resources in to preventing their evil world domination plans.

Only time will tell if we will be able to succeed.  We will not rest until we can assure the safety of the human race!

I was trying to catch up on some pictures from January, and I noticed a couple of cute one's from when Paola's parents were in town.

Here we have Abuelo Humberto reading the girls a Dora story.  I have seen that show so often, the theme song haunts my dreams.

Here we have Matthew reading Abuela Isabel one of his favorite "Cat in the Hat" books.  He really does not like green eggs and ham.

And here is Sophia showing off her control on the horsey ride.  When it's her turn I don't mind so much, specially since she is still so light... but when Matthew and Megan have their turns, they really twist me up.

I was looking through some of the pictures from around Paola's birthday and I came across one of Paola and Migdalia.

I was thinking of the friendships we form... the real friendships and how important they can be to our lives.  It is not something to be taken lightly.  These are the people we confide in ... the people that lift us up when we are down.  They are the ones that we share with in the good times and in the bad.  They are the ones that give us advice when our spouses don't understand (or we don't understand)... Friends try to correct us when we are in the wrong.  Friends celebrate with us when we are blessed... In the truest sense, real friends are an extension of our 'family'. ...who are my friends?  ... am I a being a good friend?  I am glad that my best friend is my wife!  ...and that is truly a blessing.

Sophia is a cooker.  Loves to help make, blend, mix, stir, season, pat, prod...all in the name of yummy eating!  Specially when there is yummy goodness intended for mommy's special birthday lunch.... some home town delectables that Paola dreams about on a regular basis.

To see her and the joy that she gets from cooking and helping is almost as gratifying as seeing Paola eat her favorite meal!

Patty cake, patty cake, Sophia's choice... or I guess in this case it really should be Paola's choice.  Cook on little princess!

There's no place like home!  There's no place like home....  Our journey home can take us to a lot of strange places... down the yellow brick road.  Off to see a wizard... but who is this guy behind the magic curtain?  It turns out that its no wizard at all!  Sure he makes some mean pizza for the kiddies.... but its all smoke and mirrors... and animatronics.

So we had taken some family and escaped to a magical place called 'Chucky Cheese'.  We had a lot of fun with the kids.  Even when the giant rat behind the curtain started talking and singing, I thought everything would still be ok.  Megan did not seem to like the rat too much, but Matthew seemed to have other issues going on.  How did this giant rat move... and talk... why did it it not respond to any of the surrounding stimuli?  So of course, he had to go take a peek.... and here he is climbing up and over to check out the rat behind the curtain.  He did not get far before Paola spotted him and had him come back out.  But I think he got enough info to satisfy his curiosity.  Just a giant robot rat.  Click HERE to see some more pictures of us at the Rat's house.

Oh the weather outside is frightful... but the fire is so delightful.  The chill hit us a few times over the last month.  What happened?  We hit 70 in January... but also had two different snow days.  I guess its not time to bust out the shorts.

Here is Megan all snuggled up and warm.  You know what?  I think that I have a hat just like that.

Not to be out done.  Here is Sophia in her winter wear....  Looks like they are almost ready for a blizzard.  

Ok, I promise this is the last of the Christmas pics... I know we are in February now, but I could not help but put one more pic here (and add some more to the previous Gallery). 

In this picture, we just happened to be in the Mall...and walking past the big tree in the center.... then the oddest thing happened.  We became 'those' people.... the picture takers.  Almost as if we were tourist or something.  There was a picture or two... then one more.. then the parents... then just the kids... on and on...   How could this have happened to us?  Now we are just crazy mall picture people.  I wonder if there is a therapy group for us?  

Some time after Christmas, and before Paola's parents and Brother's family had to go back to Ecuador, we had a chance to go out with some friends to see a blazing fire.

Here we are shortly before we are engulfed by the smoke!

Here are Paola's parents, deep in the smoke.  Where was all the smoke coming from, Ah yes:  Fondue.  We got a chance to eat out at the Melting Pot with some friends and family, so click on the pictures above or click HERE to see more of the pics.

This past Christmas, my favorite in-laws were able to come for a nice visit.  We were able to save some Christmas presents to open with them.  I put together some of the pictures from their visit.

You will notice some of the pictures have that smoothed out format.  An expert level of photographic skills I like to call 'smudgy lens' with just a slight taste of 'cheap camera'.  But the pictures did come out nicely.

We had a great time with them (as always).  We got a chance to do a lot of shopping, eating, and destruction of presents!  As always, click on the pictures or click HERE to see more pictures.

What What?  At some point when I say that I am still catching up with the Christmas pictures, someone is just going to shoot me.  ...but what can I do... we must have had dozens of cameras hidden around throughout the holiday... or something like that.  Well here is another collection of pictures from pre Christmas.  I think I am almost to Christmas day. 

The thing that jumped out at me about most of the pictures was the sheer amount of Red that was in them... Good thing there were no bulls around, we would all be running for our lives.  Ok, not really, specially since bulls are color blind, and they really just react to the motion of the cloth.  But I digress... Click HERE or on the picture to check out even more of the pre Christmas pictures.

I have memories ... of when I was young (not too long ago).  When my brothers and sisters and I would participate in the Church Christmas singing/plays.  Oh man, I remember how we stunk..  ok, well at least I think that I remember that I stunk at singing.  And looking back (so many years ago), I wonder if it was in my head, or if I really was that bad... but the parents and church seem to love it.  They would smile and cheer.... I guess Love is blind.  Well, isn't it a shame that we don't have any recorded proof of said events?  

Well, as you can tell, I am all torn up about that.  So in order to not let my kids miss out on this when they grow up, I did take a few vids, and a bunch of pictures.

They loved going to the little rehearsals, and practicing their songs.  These pics are from the actual performance date, and they are all decked out in their costumes.

It was all the kids below the Youth Group age, and they all played a part... of sorts.  Some were more hams than others, but isn't that always the case.

And of course, at the center of any Christmas time play, there is baby Jesus.  This year, the role of baby Jesus was played by Raggedy Anne.  (I had to google to find out what her name was). 

It was a great little play/singing production, and the kids did great.  No one crashed and fell... no one ran off screaming... no one was hurt.  A win in my book!!  And now I have it all documented, and video recorded for posterity.  I am sure the kids will appreciate it.

So many pictures still to go through... from before Christmas, all the way to New years.  Here is a picture of a lot of my family before Christmas.

A rare picture indeed.  Its so hard to get us all in one spot.  Click on this picture or HERE to see more pictures from this pre Christmas gathering.  If you look closely in this pic, you will notice that I dragged my sleeping Sophia in to the pic... no smile from sleeping beauty this night.

Before the holidays, the kids had their little Christmas parties at their school.  Paola got a chance to go and participate... (and make sweets...and take pictures).  They all seem to have a lot of fun.  Almost as much fun as I did.... sitting in my cold office.... almost all alone... clicking away at endless work tasks on the computer.... oh yeah... they are missing out.  

...oh well, although I am sure they did not have as much fun as me... (at work..) ... I guess I can still enjoy the pics of their little Xmas parties at their schools.     Click on the Pic or HERE to go see the rest of the pictures.

While we were looking at pictures, Paola came across some pictures from last year (2006) in Ecuador.  We had a wedding to go to, and look at us...

All fancy like... Paola looks STUNNING!!  ...as usual.   Truly a beautiful woman... She becomes more beautiful each year.... inside and out.  What did I ask for Christmas?  .... I asked God to bless me with another wonderful year, with my wonderful family.  

Oh yes... I almost forgot this one.  We did a bunch of pics that we thought might be good for sending out as Christmas Card pic... but in the end we did not use any of the ones we thought we would... but I did like this one...

We did end up sending out one like this that was a little more serious.... but I tend to like the sillier ones.   Happy Holidays Everyone!!

I finally got the time machine built... and we were able to travel back from when Christ was born.  We had a really nice trip, and  I took a lot of pictures.... but on a sad note.... I had no film in the camera.  So all we have are some pictures or a re-dramatization.

Ok, so maybe no time machine.  But we did have a nice time at our girls School/Church.  They had a nice Christmas day event, with tons of arts and crafts for the kids.

As you can tell, this is the "Make the gooiest, stickiest, Christmas craft that you can" contest... and I am pretty sure that Sophia came in first... and Megan in second...  (I'm still cleaning up their Christmas goo...)

Here is the kids, sneaking in to be part of history.  The Nativity had it all.... real baby... real animals... real animal smell...    We had a great time... and got a chance to share with the kids, the real reason for the season!    Click on the pics or HERE to see more pics from that day.

The pics are rolling in, and I am doing my usual job of procrastinating until there are too many pictures to choose from and then can focus on procrastinating a little more...    Oh well, here goes an attempt to go through some of the pictures at least.  We did get a nice surprise with Christmas this year, as all my sisters and brother came in to town (my parents house) for some Pre-Christmas gathering festivities!  We did not get to see Uncle (Tio) Damian or Aunt (Tia) Karen last Christmas since we were in Ecuador.

Here we have my baby brother (Tio Damian) corrupting my little angels.  Trying to teach them all the things they can do to torture me during the holidays.

And here we have Tia Karen trying to correct the chaos that my brother causes.  We all had a great time, and ate too much.  It was nice seeing everyone again.... we don't do it enough, so we have to capture these moments.  And thats where the pics come in.  Click on the pictures, or HERE to go to the first of the Christmas Galleries...

The season is upon us, the Christmas food is hitting hard.  And nothing says Christmas time like a little poem.... about the three little pigs.   Well, this was a few weeks ago (the poem), and of course here is Princess Megan during one of the family Christmas events...  Megan started singing and rhyming, and Paola heard her and wrote it down... very cute... but then she, of course, she got board with this game... and Paola had to 'help' her finish the last part...

Yesterday, I was playing a little game with Megan and Matthew, and we were about to start. Here is the conversation that took place:

Megan:     "Girls go first!"
Matthew:  "Thats not fair!"
Dad:         "Matthew, be nice and let your sister go first..."
Megan:     "Thats right Matthew, girls should always go first...."
Matthew:  "Oh man!..."
Megan:     "...and when there is no girl... you should pretend that there is one, and let her go first."

The tree has been up for some time, we had a good old time of putting it off as long as we could, but we finally got it completed last week.  The kids all helped, and for some reason, like to see how many ornaments a single branch can hold.

I think it turned out well, once we did a little re-organizing.  Also here is a picture from the company Christmas party a few weekends ago.

Its an OK picture.  Paola does not really like it... but I think it may be the only proof we have that we went... that the bill I guess...  

Its a Christmas Miracle.... ok, maybe not a miracle... but close enough.  In search for the illusive family picture.  There always seems to be one kid making funny faces (or parent)... or one kid looking the wrong way (or parent) ... or one kid with eyes closed (or parent).

Well with a little computer help, I put these two half pictures together.  Ok, well you can tell by the color tones on the coach its two... and not all the kids are looking... and oh well, I guess I do have my eyes closed.  (Like I normally do).  I guess this isn't the Christmas magic that I was looking for... But we do look happy don't we?  At least give me that.  

All the worlds greatest chefs probably started out with the love of cooking while young... and impressionable.  Maybe they enjoyed seeing their parents cook... or maybe they just loved the food that they made... who knows, but in Sophia's case... Cooking (baking) is a delicious path that leads to sweet eating.

Here we have Chef Sophia putting a few eggs in to the mix.  She loves to help... and prefers to help with you out of the room.... just in case you had any intentions of messing with the master piece. 

Here we have Sophia adding in some sugar.  ...and some more... and some more... 

 And now we add the bananas.  Break them up ... smush them down... mix them in.  I guess by now you have some idea of what she is helping to bake.

 And now time to mix mix mix.  The blender is so big to her, I have images of it spinning her over the edge, and making a giant mess ... but luckily that was avoided.  The price of the sweet baked goodness will not be deprived.  I guess the hardest part for her after this is the waiting.... waiting while the banana bread cooks... (and the constant looking in through the little oven window to see if its done.

On a totally non related note... Megan was a bit distracted... distracted about a lot of things going on, but more importantly about the gum that used to be in her mouth... and later ended up in her hair.  So like a good father, I knew just what I had to do.  CUT CUT CUT.  I wonder if my wife would have suggested a different course of action? ... I guess its a bit late for that... 

Ok, so I finally got thought the pictures.  Megan's birthday was Nov 24th (weekend long).  We drove out to visit my sister and her family in TN (Ivana, Tommy, and Nicky).  We stayed for a few days... destroyed everything....ate all their food, and had a great time.  

Well, here we have Princess Megan after the deluxe Tea party.  Click on the pic to see much more... Ivana set up a great Tea Party Spread...and even made us all wear little Tiaras.... and I mean EVERYONE!!  Well, in this pic you can see Princess Megan playing with her new makeup set. ...Paola and I have known we would be in trouble since Megan was 2 years old and started asking when she could get some make up... The clock is ticking!

Here we have the two Princess sisters hugging.  Megan is excited because of another party (Jump Zone) with more presents... and Sophia is excited about all the large amounts of sugar that she will be allowed to consume unsupervised!  (We paid for that later...)

We had a great time, both in TN with family and at the Jump Zone party.  Everyone seemed to have a great time.... but when we got home... and the kids were all passed out... Megan opened up half an eye and said to me : "Daddy...how long until my next birthday party?"     Click HERE for more pics....

This past weekend, was really all about princess Megan.  She is now the big FOUR!!  And the day after her birthday was asking when her next birthday would be.  Well of course there were a ton of pictures, but I have not had time yet to go through them.  I did stumble on a few pics from some months back that have absolutely nothing to do with Megan's birthday, so I figured it would post it to buy me some time...  :-) 

Here we have Matthew and a little friend playing a game of Chess.  Its all business... a true life and death struggle to the end.  Even if a few of the "rules" were adjusted to make the game more interesting...but they did take it seriously.  Maybe too seriously.

Growing up I remember always dreading the hair cut.... why, I am not sure, but I think it has something to do with the fear that it would turn out all crazy and pointy... possibly clown like.  I know that the odds seem unlikely, ...but the fear is there none the less.  I am sure there are adults that still have that fear... (and some that do come out with crazy freaky hair)... but social etiquette dictates that we give the cautious : "... It looks... good on you" 

Matthew seems not to have a care in the world... never did.  I think we took him his first time before he was even one... so maybe he is just used to it.  Or maybe he would not mind if it turned out crazy.

Here we have a high quality picture from my cheap little camera phone... but that is not important.  What is, is that I was able to capture a bonding moment from a "Girl Power" meeting.  This is Calla with Megan and Sophia.  Calla is Casey (Squirrel)'s daughter....

Well, some time back I was able to grab the kids and head to a near by park... (before it got chilly).  The goal was to give Paola a break since she had some stuff to work on.  So we headed over to the pirate play set park thingy (official trademark name).

Here we have pirate Matthew steering the boat.  He is the commander of the pirate ship "Candy Hawk".  A ship that strikes fear in to all who encounter it.

Here we have Captain Peg Leg Matthew and his crew with some treasure chest (that they still cant open) and also a coveted 'Treasure' map that will lead them to some more treasure that should set them up for life...

But all is not fun in games on this ship.  Those that appose the iron rule of Pirate Matthew are forced to walk the plank!!!  ....

I did find some more pics from our Halloween/Festival day ... its an odd thing really.  Paola and I growing up never really got into halloween.... we don't picket its existence... or avoid it.... we just never really got into it.

So we were trying to let the kids figure out what they liked and did not like.  Since all the kids they know at school were dressing up, they did want to do that...

...and who doesn't want to eat tons and tons of junk food.  I even helped them with that part of it.

Now when it came down to it, the kids did do a little 'door to door' trick or treating.  But only a few doors into it, they were ready to go home.  The big hit this year was the festival we went to (downtown Conyers).  There they got the best of all worlds.  Tons of kids to play with.... lines to games and slides... tons of candy...  Perhaps as they get a little older they will want more of the challenge of door to door treats.

While cousin Marcus was in town, we got a chance to do some bowling.  Of course it was a cut throat game.

Tempers were on the raise as the competition picked up... but it was obvious who was going to win.

Behind that little innocent face lays the heart of a killer.... killer bowler.  no mercy was had that day. .... the only thing that was missing was the cheer-leading section....

I have no idea where Megan got this cheerleader outfit... its not like she is in training.   Although Matthew was playing with us... I did not see any pictures of him.  Oh here he is... attacking the camera with a giant pencil!!

It took us a while to get organized, but we finally got a chance to visit a farm this past weekend.  Not only that but we were able to con convince a friend of our ours (Casey) and his daughter Cala to come with us!!

We have seen a couple of other farms over the year, and this was one of the coolest we had been to.  They had tons of stuff to do... and we all had a great time.  The kids even to to ride on the Cow Train...

They had a bunch of different farm animals to look at (and pet... and smell).  They even had pig races!!  Matthew and Megan did participate in a couple of the races (as managers... not in the race).  But it does not seem like the pig racing force runs strong in this family.  They did have one neat area where you could fire a pumpkin or corn gun.  This thing was a monster with some kick, and that corn FLEW!!!

We even had a nice little picnic that Paola had made for us.... it was a very nice day.  One of the last things we got a chance to do was to enter THE CORN MAZE!!  There were three levels of difficulty... and we only hit the 'Beginner' one ..... for the kids of course.   We roamed around for hours... (ok maybe it was only a few minutes).  Check out this pic, the kids seem to know where we should be going....

Good thing we hit level one... because I have a feeling level two or three would have eaten us up alive.  ....The kids loved it... and once we escaped the clutches of the corn, there was freedom (and much rejoicing)

We all did have a great time.  The kids love it, and no one was lost, killed, or maimed.  

My sister Ivana came into town this weekend, for Astrid (my older sisters) birthday party.  With her she brought a few pictures from the cruise that I did not have a copy off.  So, I added them to the last Gallery of cruise pics...  Click on the pic or HERE to go to that Gallery.

A few days ago, we got the school picture proofs from the girls school.  Take a look...

Well the moment Paola and I were looking at them... we both looked at different ones and said... "that one is better"   I wont try to sway your vote to my side, since Paola and I tend to like different pics... but I guess in the long wrong it will all be ok as long as I remember to agree that she is always right...

Its that time of year again.  Halloween is just around the corner.  The kids start changing their minds every day as to what they want to dress up as... But we got lucky this year... or at least Paola did, and was able to pin the choices down for the dress up day at the girls school.

Here we have Sophia as a doggie and princess Megan.  Pink is all the rage I hear.... Ok.  Maybe not the rage, but it was definitely hitting hard this day.  Now if we can just get Matthew's costume before he has to dress up...

I finally got a chance to scan the pics that were bought on the cruise.  Some of them are a little wack, but some were pretty neat.

Click on the Pic or click HERE to see some more pictures.  I was able to put these on the Picture CD I made for everyone.  (All except for the one Ivana is hiding from us).  Good times... Good times...

A few weeks ago, my younger sister Ivana was in town visiting.  My dad was out of town on a missionary trip, so we kidnapped my Mom and went to have have a little seafood.  You know the old joke... Seafood... Seefood? 

I know ... I know, thats horrible.  The broccoli on Matthew's plate had mysteriously disappeared, and i had my doubts that he had eaten it.... "Matthew, what did you do with your broccoli?"  Well I guess he showed me.

We had a great time... The kids got jacked up on black sugar water.  My mom seemed constantly amazed at the crazy things my kids would do.  As if there was some sort of divine justice for all the torturous things my siblings and I did in our childhood.

While my son worked off some of the sugar high by flying around the room, my little princess Megan tried to con Aunt Ivana out of some candy money.

Once the realization that this little girl was working the con, I think my sister was able to defend herself a little better.  Its hard to think that a sweet little innocent three year old would have such devious and deceptive intentions...

Amusing as the lunch was.... with good conversation with family that I love.  Sharing time with those we care about.  Amusing as all that was, the look of the smiles and my family... the shared laughter... who am I to deserve all these blessings?  My cup runneth over...

Paola's cousin Marcus swung to town for a couple of weeks, and we got a chance to sick our kids on him.  They were gentle, and Marcus did survive the ordeal.

 We took him around to see some of the sights.... we did spend a lot of time doing geeky stuff.  Movies... games... and a lot of eating.

One night we did get a chance to go get some Hibachi.  Marcus had never seen the show or tried Hibachi so he was in for a treat...   He was a bit spooked when the cook set the room on fire.... he also seemed a bit reluctant to believe that it was on purpose... so we asked the chef to do it again.

From there it was unto the volcano.  The onion volcano on the mushroom veggie island....  An island that I like to see, but I don't think I would ever live there...

We took Marcus to the airport this past saturday....  Heading home.  We had a great time with Marcus, and we hope to see him soon, and wish him the best in all his future decisions! 

So during the last bible study at the church, while the kids were all tucked away in the nursery area reeking havic.... there was a little incident.  The kids formed a couple of teams (gangs) and started a friendly (not so friendly) game of dodge ball (death-ball).

If you look above Matthew's left eye, you will see a bit of a bump/bruise.  Apparently while doing some Matrix style lunge in the air, there was a collision of heads... and like most head attacks... there are no winners.  Matthew seems to take it well, and he has really made a fast recovery.  We knew he was hard headed... and now we have proof.

Ah ... back to work.  The weekend almost killed me.  I think we were doing too much.  Paola's cousin (Marcus) is in town visiting, so we have been trying to keep him entertained.  He is a bit geeky like me... so it has not been too hard.

It was a beautiful day on Saturday.... So, we grabbed Marcus and the kids, and went to the Greek Festival.  It was huge!! And tons of fun.   There was music, dancing, some performances, shops/stores, games, food, more food, and a little more food.

We met some of our friends out there (Aaron and Jacqui and gang).  It was a very good time.  Click on pic or HERE to see more pictures!

Before our little get away cruise, we got a chance to go to our friends son's birthday (Gabriel).  I think he was turning either two or twenty... I cant remember.  Probably due to my advanced years.

Well, a few of the kids wanted to play with the cars on the cake, but once they were put back ... and we rounded up the kids... we were able to properly celebrate and sing Happy birthday to Gabriel....  then they destroyed the cake.

Of course, this was a huge party, and there were tons of kids.  Getting them all together was pretty easy once they realized there was candy and cake... and a pinata... I think that on the next party there should be some kid tranquilizers or sleeping gas ... or perhaps some riot gear, in case they get out of control again. 

Of course the real master minds behind the chaos distraction was the girls... I am sure it was just part of their plans to get their hands on more candy than the boys...  We gotta keep an eye out for them.... their tricky!

Ok, so I put all the pics together.... and there was over 700!!  Yikes.... well that was from four cameras... Well, some of them were dark.... wacked.... cut heads...  (and some of them were bad just because I had taken them)

So a few days later here they are.  I finally put them in a gallery.  Check them out.

With so much family (and so many kids)... I think I need another vacation just to recover.... 

A couple of weeks ago, we were at a friends house for a barbecue.  It was several of our friends and their kids... well one of these little angels was Elena (Johnny and Amy's little girl).

Well, Elena chased Matthew around a bunch and declared to the world that they Matthew and her were getting married.  The first few times she said this I thought she was playing around... but after looking into those eyes... I think there is definitely some determination there...

We have survived the Family Vacation.  We are back in town...  this was a pretty big family trip.... Grandparents...  aunts and uncles... and all the little ones.  Most of us took a nice little drive to Miami from Atlanta.... (From there the cruise would start).  We tend to like our road trips nice and late.... it allows Matthew, Megan, and Sophia to sleepy time... and we can get some good miles under the tires.

Of course, such trips don't come easy... it takes a lot of experimenting with sugar coated munchies.  Combined with an assortment of power/energy drinks before I was able to find the right balance between sugar coma and uncontrollable spasms.  Meanwhile, the kids did sleep like babies... (they cried all night and wet themselves... no just kidding)

So I have not posted in a week... work has been kind of busy... (getting ready to go out of town)... and studying for an exam.  Well.... work week is over... and also I passed my exam!!  Woot!

So, I guess its now time to relax... and take some pictures... have some fun... and do some blogging...    The picture above is from months ago.... cant remember the occasion (as if we needed one)...  Next stop:  Family Vacation!!

...there is no escape (there is only Zuhl!).  I guess Matthew and Megan thought they were free.  Oh, how could they be so wrong.  No one escapes the unstoppable forces of the Dental Team!

We all have to pay the price.... sooner or later.

Well, I guess it was not as scary as it used to be in the old days.  The kids had fun... and loved the stickers they were given.  Also they loved the new cool toothbrushes that they got.  They were pretty excited about it actually ... which was a bit alarming.  What ever happened to the age old fear of the EVIL DENTIST ... whose sole purpose in life was to inflict dental pain upon its innocent sugar mouthed victims?  I figure at some point I am gong to start sounding like some old geezer who talks about the good old days when we walked 100 miles in the snow barefooted just to get to school....

Do you remember the first time you went to the dentist?  I really don't.  I have no idea when that was... but I am pretty sure it was not when I was two years old.

Not only that, but look at that comfy chair.... its warm and inviting.  And look at those cool spittle protection shades she gets to wear!!  Where was this stuff when I was a kid?  

Its labor day weekend!!!  And I guess this is the day we take a moment of silence for all that Labor lost...    We got a chance on Saturday to visit this huge park near my work.  It had a skate park in there.... and over 6 play sets with foam floor... this is a good thing so that I don't cry as much every time I fall off these crazy contraptions....  The play sets were big and spaced out.... and for various age groups.... But that did not stop us!!  We visited each and everyone.

Check out the pics!!  The name of the park was Brook Run Park (Sandy Springs).  We had a picnic and rode bikes... and some friends stood us up.... but thats ok!   ...but I am sure they will make it up to us.  We managed to have a good time, and no one was killed or hurt!!  (Especially me!!)

A few months ago, while we were in California, we got a chance to celebrate Liliana's 2nd birthday.  Click on this pic or HERE to jump to the rest of the pictures.

My wife had sent me some pics that she liked from our trip to Ecuador (2006/2007).  How did I miss these?  These pics where when we were hanging with the Cousins. 

We were there for Maria-Daniella's birthday party..... which of course the kids love any excuse to eat large amounts of sugar coated goodness.

 Part of the time there we went to "Las Penas".  The whole little area is a climb up the side of this giant mountain (ok maybe it wasn't a mountain).  There are tons of stairs up ward and upward. 

Along the way all the buildings and shops have been painted various colors.  A very colonial type of theme flavored with Pirate/War memorabilia.  Paola told me if I did not behave myself that she would shot me with this Canon... I think that she was kidding...  

 This was still close to the time they had the "Viejo's"  Here is one from the movie Ice Age.  The kids of course looked at this long climb up the stairs as an adventure... and challenge.... (I saw it as a chance to see how out of shape I was...)

At least during the long hike up there, near the middle, there was a fountain and some vendors selling some cold frosty drinks. 

I enjoyed the cool drink... while my wife enjoyed the shopping.... The kids on the other hand just enjoyed running circles around us on the way up to the top.

Although in this picture it looks like the girls are trying to fight for freedom!!  But before you knew it we hit hit the Pirate Museum!

 Near the top is where they had the big guns.... literrally...

Looking back at these pics brings back the memories... but its odd how long ago this seems... and it was less than 9 months ago!!  Is that part of getting old?  Or perhaps I need another vacation....  

I was going over some of the pictures that I still had in the "To Do" list.  Lo and behold I ran across some pictures with the family doing a little bowling in California.  I had not seen my brother in a long time.  It was good to see him, and hang out.  ...enjoying a cool beer.  Of course he is my baby brother... and I guess he always will be no matter how much gray hair he grows.

My parents, Brother, Karen, baby Liliana, and my Clan all had a great time throwing some balls around.  Our kids of course thought it was the greatest thing since sliced bread.  Sure maybe the ball didn't always go down the right lane... and sure we may have left a kid or two behind... but at least we had some fun.

Click on either of these pictures or HERE to see a bunch of other pictures from the bowling tournament.  I learned a few important things while we were bowling.... 1.  You should never bowl with the heaviest ball in the place... it will mess up your fingers.  2.  Do not bet your money on any bowlers under the age of 6... you will surely lose.  and most importantly 3.  If you are going to beat your wife,...make sure its only by a small amount!

They say that every day that passes, is a day closer to death.  Ok, so I am not sure who said that, but I say it from time to time.  I mention this today because today is my birthday.  I had a lot of calls and emails and attention... (I'm not big on getting attention...but what can you do).  My wife and kids surprised me by going to my office to drop off a little birthday Flan!!  But I surprised them by not being there...  I ran an errand and then had lunch with a couple of friends... so when I got back to my office, Paola and the kids had already headed home...

But thats ok.... It was the thought that counted... right?    I am so blessed.  Too blessed if you ask me.  (But no one really ever does).  It was a nice packed day at the office... (time flies when you are super busy).  I talked to my boss and he did not mind me heading out early.  I went home and spent time with my family.... played some games.... tickled some kids... I was so tired... what I really wanted to do was take a nap, by my kids knew that it would be better for everyone if I just played with them.  We did a little birthday pizza (my fav) and the Paola busted out a little mini birthday Flan!! 

I did try to take a nap here and there, but the kids quickly noticed that I was missing, and came to help me join society again.  I think my girls told me Happy Birthday over 30 times... probably also in case I forgot how old I was getting.   How old am I?  The big 35 today!!  

A very cool birthday over all.  I just hope that I get a little rest this evening... perhaps even some sleep. 

A couple of days ago I got an email from an old friend of ours (Diego).  It brought back some fond memories... so I dug around for some photos.

While we were out these visiting them, we got a sitter to watch the 50 (or so) kids, and went out on a double date.  They took us to a great little place (that I cant remember the name of).  All I can say is the food and wine(s) were very good.

The service was also very good.  This is a picture of "The Guy"....  I remember us all talking and laughting... enjoying the great food... and enjoying each others company. 

I remember them especially now that they are all off in Ecuador.  We hope they have a great time... we wish we were there with them!!

Looking at this picture reminds me of the nice sunburn that I picked up along the way.... Still that did not put a damper on our dinner date.  White or Red.... can't I just get a tan??

My wife noticed that some of the pics we took were not in there... and as usual she was correct.  There were more pictures of this part of the trip tucked away in another folder. 

There were some really cool pics that I added to the same Napa gallery.  We got a chance to check out this huge park.... and share a little ice cream!!

And here is nice picture of our friends (and tour guides) Ronnie and Ruthy!!  Thanks for everything guys.  We had a great time.

It seems like we will never catch up to the amount of pictures we have taken...   There are just way way way too many.  But that does not mean we wont keep trying. 

While out in California, we got a chance to visit some really good friends of ours in Napa Valley.  Ronnie and Ruthy.  They gave a great tour of the area which included the vineyards!!!  Wine Wine everywhere!

We got a chance to try some of the wines... We say Ruthy and her sister (and family).  We even got a chance to have a little sleep over at their house.  Check out the pics by clicking on the pics above or HERE.

So, some time ago, we had our little escape in California.... well part of that escape was an escape from the escape...????  Well, we were able to leave our kids with some friends and head to the famous "Pier 39"

We rode in with Diego, and then jumped some trains.  Before you knew it... we were walking around in San Francisco!  We had a lot of fun... walked around and saw some sites.  It was all fun and games until I was attacked by a giant finger!!  NO really check out this picture (my evidence)

I was nearly crushed.... but luckily I escaped into a safety toilet pod like thing.  Yes, thats right.  A Toilet room... (for public use).

Those were very interesting indeed.... They even come with a map on the side (that came in handy).  Well we reached the Pier and tried some great food.  And you cant go to San Fran without trying out the great sourdough soup bowls!!

Paola said it was marvelous... I stuck to the more traditional sourdough sandwiches.... for I fear food change.  We even got to see the world famous Boudin Sourdough bakery.  We had time to do a boat tour... check out the sea lions... see Alcatraz..... the foggy San Fran bridge...

Over all a very great little escape.  Click on any of these pictures.... or HERE to see more of the pictures we took.  There are a lot of cools ones...

So yesterday was a big day for Matthew.  His first day of school.  Kindergarten to be more clear.  I know I know... In July?  Well Rockdale starts a little early ... but they pad in more days off etc...  Matthew was so excited!!  And now his day starts off very early : 6 AM Get Up!!

It was a strange mixture of excitement and nervousnes.... a queasy feeling ... like you were going to be sick... or maybe just hungry.  And Matthew was nervous too... 

They grow up so quick... but maybe not as quick as these back packs.  Look at the size of that thing.  Almost as big as Matthew.... oh well.  Breakfast eaten.... teeth's brushed.  Backpack on.  Time to catch the bus.

It is still a bit dark out.... but Matthew sits, and patiently waits for the bus....  I don't remember ever going to school when it was this early.  Maybe I just blocked it out of my mind...

The bus arrives, and on he goes.  Ready for his first day of school.  I of course was not there for this... I was at work.  But I did call my wife to see how everything went.  She said he was very excited...

They grow up so fast.  Yeah.... now I can say, "my kid is in school... hes studying to be a doctor..."  ...ok ... maybe not yet.  No call from the school.... no news on the TV about some crazy kid starting a fire at the elementary school.... all seems quiet...... too quiet.

And quicker than the wait to go.... The first school day is over.  Matthew runs home...

Tired... He had fun... All went well.... only got time out once (for hitting some kid that him him first).  Not bad for the first day of school.... we did not have to go to the hospital even once.  I think he will be just fine...

We actually got a chance to get some rest this past weekend.  (We even rested from taking any pictures... buts thats ok... you didn't miss much).   My mom and sister Astrid (and one of her son's Andree) came over to spend the night.  The kids played until they passed out, and the adults watched movies until after 2 or 3 am.

 The kids seems to focus on mostly playing, but periodically they would stop to graze... that reminded me of the (long gone) Candy eggs of yester year....

Little tiny candy eggs.  That came in a little tiny egg case.... ???  I am not sure what that was about.... or why the emergency need to transplant them to the larger egg carrier.  But one thing is for sure... You should never put all your eggs in one basket... If you look closely you will see a little hand helping herself to some candy eggs, while older sister is being distracted for the picture.

Yeah thats right.  Tricky little Sophia.  More and more Sophia is using that silly smile, and innocent "...I didn't do it..."   Almost like she is preparing for bigger and more sophisticated violations.  ... we are really going to have to keep an eye on her.

How often do we not do the right thing?  Sure its easy not to kill people... or rob banks...  Things most of us would never do.  Its easy.  We just dont have to do anything.  Sometimes I think we take the easy road just because its less work, not because of right or wrong.  Are we just basically lazy?

(A picture from our wedding)

Last week I was thinking of some nice things about my wife, and how blessed I am, and a thought passed my mind.  Why don't I tell her.... a simple sharing of good though can make a persons day.   So why don't we do it more often?  I need to ... I have too many people that I love in my life not to share my good thoughts with them...  This is what I wrote about my wife:

Eight short years of marriage and I still look at my wife like we are on our honneymoon...

While we were in California...we got a chance to go to a Wine fair.  But to tell you the truth, we did not really make it to any wine.  With all our kids and our friends kids, we pretty much were planted at the rides and ponies.  Which was fine.  The big boys were mostly on the bouncy things... and the girls were mostly interested in seeing the animals and ponies.

Click on the pics to see some more pictures from this day.  The kids (as always) had a great time.  They ran around until all the parents were tired... and never once asked us to buy them any broccoli or asparagus..... just candy and popcorn.

The best part about the whole thing is that there was no pain on my back (like when I am the horsey).... only down side is the pain that I felt on the old wallet ... thanks to the nice ponies...  Click HERE to see more pics from the festival.

Ah the pains of being a father.... they go deep.  Very deep.  Sometimes down to the lower vertebrae.

Either these kids are getting heavier...or I am getting older.  Most likely both....  Pray for me.

So we just got back from Florida (yes... again).  And as normal there are tons of pics... so I will get to them as soon as I can (yes... again).  Well one of the 'events' was my nephew Gabriel who turned the big UNO.  Very cool cook out party on the beach...

So Matthew comes to me... and says "Daddy, can I have a cup cake..."  I of course ask him if he has already had one.... Look at the pic... the chocolate around his mouth.... So I say "Matthew, are you sure you did not have one?"  At that point he knew the game was up.  I did what any respectable father would do..... I told him to ask his mother... 

Kids are at it again... Swim Swim Swim (Click on the picture to see more Swim Pictures)

Matthew took one of the classes, but the teacher said he was bored with the class.  So we had to get him some semi-private classes teach him something new.  They told us he is ready for swim class... Sometimes he says he would like that... and sometimes he says he would rather be playing video games.

Here they are taking a little snack break after some hard working swim classes... Megan is doing really well.  She loves to play in the pool, as long as someone is there to cheer her on.  Sophia on the other hand is more of a free spirit, and has no fear...  both love their noodles and are doing very well....   Dont forget to click HERE for more pics (or the pics above)

      

      

 

All in all, this is turning out to be a very busy summer.  The kids are running around crazy with no school..... for now.... and this summer is hot.  At least they do get a few days a week in swim class....

Who knows... maybe I will even be able to get a little sun tan on my pale white skin...

Eight wonderful glorious years of blissful marriage.  And here are the pics that don't really prove it... but we like to share.

Its good to reflect on ones life... as often as possible... why?  why not....  I will tell you why (even if you didn't ask)....

When we reflect, we can appreciate (or learn to) the good things God has given us... and on the bad things, we can work on improving or fixing what we can...  and because we are human... and we tend to forget...

We were trying to get away for a few days... but it did not work out that way, so we did the next best thing... we lined up babysitters for the major part of three days... and just went around doing stuff together....

We had a really good time.  But it was not what I would have called relaxing.  We did so much stuff...we caught some movies... we ate at a couple of cool places...  we went to the park.... we went dancing.... yatta yatta

One of the nights we ate at Nava with some friends... Tons of fun.  We also got a chance to go dancing at Havana club... before they tear down the Buckhead area.  Here is what I always wonder.... why do people always want to take a picture of the table with food?  That always just seems like an odd picture to want...

This picture.... I just wanted to posts Onofre (friend on left).  If you know Onofre... you know that he is a clown... and this is the most serious picture of him I have ever seen!

So a great anniversary weekend!  But you know what... even if we had not been able to get away.... or get baby sitters.... I would still have been happy and grateful, because I am truly a blessed man.  More than I could ever deserve.

Here is little Sophia... "I will not beat up the other kids..."  100X

I really have no idea what was going on when this picture was taking... I am sure that she was just playing and drawing.  But it always reminds me of the Simpsons.. the intro where Bart is punished and has to write on the chalk board.

In case you are curious... I generated this HERE.

One of the biggest reasons for heading to California was to visit our very close friends.

Diego (Dad) of course took one for the team.... or more accurately, is not in the picture because he is taking it.

Here is Sophia and me with Maria Jose.  We have known them for years, and they have become like family.  Our kids call them Tio Diego and Tia Maria Jose (Aunt and Uncle).

When we all get together the time flies by... (not just for the adults, the kids play til the pass out).

Here is Mikaela and Megan dressing up like princesses... waiting for the prince to come along.... oh wait...

So there is always some joking around that Diego and Megan may one day marry..    Its all in good fun... but as they get older... I think the joke is becoming more serious...  Also here is Sophia... not interested in boys yet (thank God!!) ... but very fascinated in the little Rubik's cube she has...

I guess I should not worry about what may come.. and just enjoy the blessings I have at hand.

While we were in California a couple of weeks ago... we had a boys night out.  Of course it first required written approval from the bosses (Paola and Maria Jose)... signed in tripplicate... deposit in cash.... significant calateral.... etc.

This was Matthews first baseball game (not sure if it was little Diego's first).  We drove to the nearest BART (Transit) station and took the train to the station.

The kids were ready for the game.  They seem to enjoy the journey as much (if not more than) the destination.... [That is good enough to put in a fortune cookie]

We passed the train time playing around... and the kids loved it.  It was hard for them to keep still... jumping around... hanging around...  and we had not even started spoiling them with sugary junk food at the ball park yet...

At this point I am supposed to show a bunch of the pictures from the game.. but we did not take that many when we got there.... and they were all a bit too dark...  I think it might be time for a new camera... this one is all beat up.

It did get a bit chilly at night... and Diego (dad) and me were soo smart, that we did not even bring warm clothing...  We had a great time.  We ate tons of junk food [Cotton candy, hot dogs, pizza, ice cream....]  A couple of die hard fans next to us gave our kids some baseball cards....  Well the kids did start getting tired... and it was getting really cold.... so we ended up heading out before the end of the game... which really only seem to partially be part of the experience... but the most important part of the whole adventure?  As we were leaving my son turns to me and says "Dad, that was the greatest game ever!"

Big boy.... First Tie ever... Mr. Cool himself.  Ready for church...

Looking like GQ.  More and more he is telling us how he is old enough to do it himself... and for the most part he is..

Now if only we could get him to completely drop the old thumb habit.  He is almost there... this is a rare thing these days...

So a few weeks ago we took some time to fly out to California.  We had a great time visiting really good friends, and also some family.  (Yay Lili turned 2!  more pics later)

At first we were worried about the flight out there... and due to a large miracle, things went great.  The kids had a blast... they loved it.  Here is a nice pic of half of my head.  I thought it would be best since I can't seem to keep my eyes open for any of the pictures anyways...

I think it was like a big game to the kids... waiting for the plane to pick up speed and take off... using the fold out tables ad their personal desks.... and of course the ever popular musical chairs.  At first I thought this would drive people around us crazy... but they all seem to smile at the kids... which means either they have kids and understand or they had a lot of little drinks from the flight attendants and they did not care so much anymore...

Speaking of little drinks...if you look closely.. .you will see that Matthew has not finished the bloody Mary on his table...

Very good trip... and very good flight with the kids (going and coming)...  I guess we really don't have much of an excuse to fly with out them anymore...  I guess they are getting older....  I guess it is getting easier.

The Abuelos (Grandparents) from Ecuador was treating us and the kids to a little McDonalds Celebration.

I think we were celebrating the kids finishing school or something.. I dont recall.  This was before our little escape to California...  Well here is my beautiful wife, and me... non showered and early morning... 

I was a bit smelly but I was dressed to play... so into the McMaze we went... chasing each other around.  It was a hard reminder that I am not as small as I used to be...

...or maybe they are just making these things smaller these days...

Paola and I had gone on a date last night... so our Sitter Cynthia was still over.  She is super cool.. and the kids love her to death.

 Its very nice having her around... it gives Paola and I the little breaks we need to go catch our sanity... while we still have it.  The kids know that mommy and daddy need their alone time... (and boy do we!)

Besides... nothing puts a smile on these kids faces like the 'healthy' food we get at McDonalds.... (yeah right)

Well ok ... maybe the milk is not too bad for you...

The kids got to have fun.... we got a little break... The kids even called the grandparents to tell them thank you......   Gracias Abuelos!!! 

So we have been away for a bit... more than none and less than ever.  I had hoped to get a little down time and rest to catch up on the blogging...  (The journal [blackmail] for my kids)...

...as usual I was wrong... no rest.  But my wife did help out by taking over 600 pictures...   

I am still trying to catch up to some work stuff, but I think things should stabilize soon... (i hope)... We had a blast... the kids where great on our little trip to California... we got to see a bunch of really good friends... and also see my brother. 

More to follow.... as soon as I can go through some of these pics...  

...we are on a short little trip... but I did get a chance to catch up on some pics that I have been putting off...

The streets are getting dangerous around our neighborhood.  Its not safe to walk around alone anymore..... gangs of roving motorcycles own the streets!

Like most dangerous gangs of bikers, what they really are looking for is not power or control... not to cause fear.... what they really want is a hug.

Every generation has its little differences.... Ok... maybe they have a lot of differences... but I guess from time to time they find some common ground...

Here is Sophia and Cousin Ricky checking out his tunz collection.  Chillin in the mini cuz his peeps aint got wheels baby!

Look at Sophia... she is very serious about her music... no games here.

This past Sunday we went to Matthew's Graduation!  Check him out in his cap and gown..... Cap and Gown???  ....when did they start doing this before you went to Kindergarten???

Sorry for the dark pic, ... I have some more, but this one was in hand and from a scan of a real picture the school gave us.  Look at him!!  They grow up so fast!

Nothing like a lazy Saturday morning to catch up on some much needed rest.... (That is my usual unrealized wish).... 

...but before I sink too deeply into my "Lazy Saturday" dream.... My kids help me to wake up from these dangerous dreams... with a little horse play.  Sure, who does like to play fun games like .... "Knock Daddy Down..." .... or "...Giddy-up horsy"... or everyone's favorite... "kick um where it hurts!"  

So I am a little late posting the valentine day's pictures.... Paola and the kids made these little heart cakes for the school valentine day event.  And .... for those of you that where watching your weight.... but still want to get your hands on one of these cakes.... Follow this simple recipe and just tell your self that it was fat free, sugar free, guilt free....

 Step 1:  Get colorful box of love and three willing chefs to make the magic.  If they do not choose to participate, threaten them with no TV for a week.  Also you may wish to mention that they can lick the left over cake mix.

Step 2:  Open box and gather ingredients.  Make sure that you use care when using scissors.  Try to discourage running around with scissors even after the mix bag has been opened.

Step 3:  Add mix to bowl, and make sure that your siblings don't try to eat the ingredients.  If they try, make sure you run screaming to parents to put a stop to this undesired behavior.

Step 4:  Add in the eggs.  At this point you may be wondering if it is the right time to tell your children that eggs are really little unfertilized baby chickens... that will never be born.  This of course might put a damper on the cooking festivities... so you may want to mention this at a later date.

Step 5:  Mix in the rest of the ingredients.  It is also a smart choice to carefully watch your kids so that they don't throw in any other unwanted items, such as small toys, or remote control.

Step 6:  Time to mix the ingredients together.  Make sure that they are blended together evenly.

Step 7:  OK, so the mixing is really done, but at this point if you don't let the second oldest also mix, you may cause a fight that may end with cake mix all over the floor.

Step 8:  There is no doubt now that the ingredients are thoroughly mixed, but to not let the youngest also participate in the mixing would lead to some crying and whining that would add even more delay in to the process.

Step 9:  Now that the mix is done, Mom steps in to assist.  The kids help clean the bowl for good measure.

Step 10:  The mix goes into these cute heart cake pans and are ready for the oven.  Add time and love... and you are almost done.  Almost... because from here they go to the school for an extra addition of the artistic touch.

I am speechless...  As a parent I am supposed to say how beautiful it looks... but those eyes keep staring at me... and I just don't know what to say. 

I often wonder what my family is up to while I am hard at work... (or hardly working)...  I know its not all roses and caviar....(or is it).  Well, luckily my wife takes at least 1,203,239,192 pictures a day so I get to get a little glimpse of those moments I miss.  ...digging back a couple of weeks I found a good bunch.

Start the day with some light reading.  Something useful that may one day save your life....

...A cousin visits, and one must have some TV Time to share the favorite show... notice how Matthew is the first to grab the remote... he drives that thing like nobody's business...

A couple of toy tests to determine what political party you may be a part of later on in life...

Then its Play-dough time.... A test of hand eye coordination?  .... a test of artistic representation skills....?  ...some kids just pound on the play-dough to get out their daily frustrations...

...I have no idea why Matthew and Megan are screaming on this one.... but I am going to go ahead and blame it on global warming.

...and Here is Sophia... several times I have caught her talking on a cell phone. I think she is secretly planning something.... something big.

Ornaments.... cheap ... pretty .... imported.... I think Matthew took this picture.  Not bad.

Another Matthew original picture.  There is something demanding about King Kong's presense... something that demands respect.  Well at least it would be if he wasn't just slightly larger than my hand...

I am pretty sure I took these white hat pictures.  I think I had said "Say Cheese"... not "... love the spoon!"

....the only thing I am missing is a white hat pic with little Sophia... 

Once again, we had a few issues on the "Carpeted" areas of the house...  enough to warrant a cease fire.  Well, what does that really mean?  It means the kids have to sit in the kitchen area while watching TV in the living room if they want to drink their chocolate milks...

Its not really the first time we have tried to enforce this rule due to messy circumstances... and I am sure it will not be the last.  But the most important thing is not to get pulled into the "who's fault is is that we are not allowed to drink in the living room..."

 It does seem to be a sour spot with them.  These little battles for power that they deal with on a regular basis.... for example... when something breaks or spills.... whats the first thing that happens?

At first glance you would thing that the culprit is obvius... but that is not always the case.  Sometimes interrogation is needed to determine to true person responsible... 

...I wonder where they learn that from?  ...well, the good thing is that these little angels may be quick to point... but with a little time, they all come clean... they also like to sit down and talk about their differences to help resolve issues.

Sometimes little is said during these negotiations.... but sometimes that is for the best...

The end result is usually peace... and perhaps a little bit of lessons learned... then its back to 'normal'...and the next big project...

...what ever that is.... 

One place that always seems to be a lot of fun for the kids is the Yellow River Ranch of I78.  We had some family in town (Tia Karen and Cousin Liliana) and of course it was a beautiful day so Paola and gang, and my mom, and my sister, and everyone else who wanted to have a good time went to the Ranch.

Megan is so cute....trying to feed the deer from a distance... while I think Matthew is planning on capturing this one to use as a pack mule.

Here is cousin Liliana, cough red handed trying to help some rabbits escape.

Here is Sophia and her bag of peanuts.  I wonder how many of those she ate on her own...

....right about here I think the kids are thinking.... Turkey Sandwiches!!  If only they could unite and carry out their plans together...

Part of the entertainment is not just seeing how the kids react to the animals... but watching how Paola reacts to the animals... 

Run Rabbit Run!!  Don't fall for that Innocent face... she is just trying to lure you into her trap!!

And of course ... here are the people who had fun.... You may be asking yourself where is Briam...?  ....perhaps he took the picture..... nope...

Here I am ... and my beautiful smile.....  yeah yeah.... Where was I?  Well.... I had some problems at work... and had to work all night.... so I was just going to sleep when everyone was going out to have some fun..... maybe next time I can make it.  Well at least I got to see the pictures they took....

I would say its at age Five that I realized my little boy was not so little any more.  They grow up so fast... and start to weight more every day...

So you may be asking your self what this is.  Some might might say it is a measures of a mans worth.... or more accurately, a measure of a mans weight.  This my friends is one end of the towel holder/rack that used to hold up the towels.  I guess he is getting bigger, because one moment he is jumping up and down, the next he is trying to pull himself up the wall holding the towel holder/rack.

....just a few days ago we had Daddy Breakfast at the kids school.   I got a chance to hang out with my kids... we played a bit.... I got a tour of the classes, and we had some yummy breakfast.

It was Megan who taught me that day, that its not how good the food is.... its how much you can stuff in your mouth before someone takes the plate away.  And then, you sneak food from your neighbors plate until they catch you.  Wise one that little Megan.

 And then there is Sophia.... in this picture you see two extremes, a little boy with a pacifier, a teddy, and a blanky.....  This is the farthest that he stood away from the teacher, and that was only because she walked away quickly.  The other extreme?  most likely Sophia... Does not really need anything/anyone around.... can pretty much play independently...  Even on Daddy's breakfast day... she seemed more content to play play play....  I guess that was my gift from her. 

...a couple of weeks ago.  One Sunday... tucked away in a back corner of our church...in a little thing called Kids nursery  (a.k.a. Kid's Prison).... there is Chaos.... there is anarchy.... there is a lot of screaming.

A tribe of sugar fueled little people rally.  They work themselves into a hunting frenzy.... screaming louder and louder.  There seems like very little can calm these savages.

I think the best bet is to divide and conquer... but you cant let them smell the fear... or they will eat you alive.  I separate three of the rougher looking ones with promises of candy...  But the ultimate plan here is to make them look a little more respectable.... and that starts with a nice haircut.

Luckily the hair cut place had some monkey bars to keep the kids entertained.

The wait is long.... almost too long.  We almost lose control of the situation... but there are enough breakable items laying around to keep them entertained until it is time for the chair.

Maybe it was the stern threats of discipline or possibly the tranquilizer injections we gave the kids... but we were able to get them all at least a little trim.... next time DUCT TAPE!!

Before the end of last month, we got a chance to head down to Florida to visit some family... and to see how many miles we could add to the mini-wagon master!  There was family in town from Ecuador that we had not seen in a long long long time... (a few months).

Of course we asked these kids if they just wanted to sit around for a few days and rest... but of course they did not like that idea.  So we headed to a place that lets the kids work at doing real type of jobs... doctors, cooks, fireman..

The kids had a blast.... they did some jobs.  Then got some bling bling.... they ate some pizza.... They did have a cool little play area for kids that were too small to do the jobs (like Sophia), but it seems like all the kids wanted to play there....

We where in Florida for a couple of days, we got to see family and also got to go to an outdoor park as well.  There are tons of other pictures from that day. 

As a special treat there are also some pictures of Gabriel, Paola's brothers new baby boy.

Click on any of the pictures to go to the gallery or click HERE.

So I had mention some time ago about the stuffed dolls that they make in Ecuador near years end.  These things are made from wood and paper... and then stuffed lovingly with tons of fireworks for good measure.

They make these dolls to represent all kind of things.  Cartoon characters, heroes, villains, poloticians...

These pictures where taken down one of the streets that gets filled with tons of Viejos.  Blocks and blocks of all of these elaborate creations.  Click HERE to see a bunch more pictures.  So as they count down to the years end, each neighborhood collects all of their 'viejos' into giant piles.... and they burn them.... fireworks and all...

Some months ago I had posted a few pics from a trip that we had take to Fernbank last year... I was finishing up on some emails and I noticed some of the pics that my wife had sent out.

....this is a picture of some of the wild 'people' that come to check out the Fernbank museum.  They may look nice and friendly ... just don't get too close.  Specially during feeding time...

Sophia tends to love the animals the most... As if they are magical stuffed animals that she is supposed to grab and drag around...

Matthew tends to like the more dangerous items that may be fun to play with or strike fear into those around him... He also seems to think these would look cool if we had them at our house.

I did not get a good one of Megan, but we did have a bit of a scare as we ran around looking for Sophia who decided it was time to play hide and go seek without letting us know...

In the end, it was a lot of fun hanging out with the family.  No one got hurt, or lost too bad.  I am not sure why, but this picture reminds me of one of the scenes from The wizard of oz when they are all walking down the yellow brick road....

So it took me forever (slightly less) to go through all the pictures from the the Bahamas trip that Paola and I took last month... but there are finally here.  Just lick on the pic or HERE to jump to the gallery.

Some of the pictures turned out a bit too dark, and I did what I could... but I think its time to get a new camera...

Looking back at the vacation... It was soooooo relaxing... If only we could do that once a month...

There are few places that you can take to a truck load of kids to... specially this rowdy bunch.  A couple of weeks months ago, it was all we could do to keep these crazy monkeys in line.

We did take these kids to the park (in Riobamba).... of course they had a blast.  Want to see some more pictures?  CLICK HERE ...of course it was not all fun and games.  There was also food!  We went to a local pig roastery (is that a real word?)

On all sides, there are pigs cooked and roasted.  Each stand with a different pig is making a different offer... People walk in and walk around hearing the deals, and then they choose... sit in the center seating areas, and the food is brought to them.  The whole room smells of delicious roasted piggy goodness.

But what is this sad face we see on Matthew.... sometimes we want things in our own special way... and sometimes when we don't get it... we show our bad side.  Luckily he did not stay like this for too long.  He apologized for his behavior, and we were able to move on with our lives.

In a little town, tucked away in the mountains of Ecuador there was this little village.  Not just any village mind you (why do people say 'mind you'?)...  Home spun taffy, made from hand picked sugar canes...

A couple of months back (when we were there), we got to see the process up close and personal.  The canes are cut... chopped... then put through a grinder thinga ma jiggy (This of course is the official name for this device).

When the 'stuff' is ready its time for the pulling.  They pull and hook the taffy over and over and over.  We counted, and its about one million times... roughly.

Then comes the cutting and wrapping into perfect portions.  And finally the part everyone was waiting for...

...if candy can taste fresh... I guess this would be it.  The only thing I forgot to do was to ask if it was diet...

Here is an interesting conversation Matthew and Paola had the other day...

Matthew: "I need a Nintendo"
Paola: "If you get a Nintendo, all you will do is play video games ALL THE TIME..."
Matthew: "...no I won't.... sometimes the battery will need to recharge..."

A true gamer in the making... Just like his dad.

Ok Ok ... Enough with the mean emails telling me to get off my lazy butt...

  Due to technical dificulties... I have not been able to post as much...

...why?  I have been really over worked... and over booked on the weekends...  So sorry for the delay in postings... I will try to catch up now that some of the madness has died down.

So... I am taking a break from telling the holiday story vacation... and that means time for another vacation!!  We got some really good deals on a Bahamas cruise... and how could we say no.  Besides, we know that our parents were just dying to watch our kids for a few days.

(Well before the cruise pic above...) It was a nice relaxing drive to Port Canaveral.  We got there sooner than we thought, and got a chance to check out the port cove.  A nice little Sunday brunch place (on Thursday morning).

We were one of the first couples on the boat... and got a chance to chill, find our place in the world, and check out this boat.  Very nice... very relaxing... very quiet with out the kids... :-)

 Next day we hit Freeport Bahamas!

...and of course a lot of shopping...

The beaches were UNBELIEVEABLE!!  Clear green/blue water... soft white sand.

The first day there was just shopping around... eating overlooking the ocean.  A little beach and sun... some great food.

Day two we hit some more neat places.  It seemed like we were getting rest, but the days where packed fill of activities.

A short little boat ride to the platform...

...and Paola was off Parasailing... I stayed behind to guard her purse...  :-P

She had a blast...a bit pricy but well worth it.

Then we went off to find some typical food... take a left at the giant sand castle (this thing was bigger than our minivan)

The sun was in full effect, but I think that I am doing pretty good at protecting my fair skin...

Typical Local foods on the menu... Crack Conch was a local special, and it was delicious.

Several times the guys that worked at this place kept saying that Conch Salad was the bomb... and that "it will help give you more kids!!"

So we did not try the Conch Salad.... at all.  Well we are leafing Freeport and heading to Nassau...Paola is at the gymn and I have decided to spend some time on my laziness...  I have been neglecting it lately.  More to follow!

Near the town of Banos, on the way past the volcano in Tungurahua, we ran along some winding roads.  To one side there was usually some nerve recking drop... and along one of these valleys ran a river that feeds into the Amazon river.

The scenery was gorgeous.  So, the road eventually stopped near some little road side stands, and there was a Sky bucket that would take you across the river, high high up over the valley.  The sky bucket was a little scary... and you could see that with the winds it swayed a bit... I am sure it would be safe for 5 to 8 people...

At the other side, the bucket would take you to some jungle area.  There was some places to walk around at, and also you could see the famous monkey Martin... He seemed harmless enough.  There was also a creek/stream that feed into the valley, turning into a nice water fall to the river at the bottom of the valley ravine.

We went with Paola's uncle and a bunch of the cousins and their kids...  Click on any of the pictures or HERE to see more pictures (and the monkey).  You will also be glad to know that we made it back safe and sound.... at one point the guy controlling the bucket stopped it right over the middle of the ravine... so we could take some pictures...  This abrupt stop was a bit startling to some of the adults, but the kids did not seem to mind it at all.... I wonder if they had insurance...

From Riobamba we were just a jump skip and a small car ride to Tungurahua.  Last year, this was the Volcano that erupted last year.  Here is a picture of what it looked like last year.

The area had started recovering, and the people were back to their lives.  This is what it looked like in December 2006.

They say it is not the destination, but the journey.  I find myself saying that a lot...  We had a great time driving through the beautiful country side, through the little towns.  It is not until you get right up unto the volcano that you start seeing the ash buildup (near the river bed) and where the lava poured down the mountain.  I put together some of the pics from the journey in a little gallery.  Click on the pictures or HERE to go there.

Sorry for the delay.... crazy week at work.   (well... I still have a lot of pics to catch up on...so here goes)

So we survived the bus ride... a very memorable bus ride.  And we were there:  Riobamba.  We stayed at Paola's Uncle's house with some family... and one of the first things we all noticed were all the Christmas decorations all over the house.

My son stood in awe at all the lights, and ornaments... he stood there looking over everything as if we had wondered into a Christmas store.  I noticed that he also lingered too long staring at the natvitiy scene.... and I thought we would have another accidental nativity death on our hands.  I would have to keep my eye on him very carefully on this trip...

More Santas than you could shake a stick at... but that also meant more things my kids could break.  I was glad that there was actually very little destruction, but I think that was due to the fact that there were so many other kids for them to play with.... if there had not been, I think we would have spent more time there looking for replacement parts...

I guess it does not matter what part of the world you go to... kids will be kids... You would think they had a special code... or something.  They all went straight to playing as if they had known each other for years...  Maybe they know something we dont...

The best part about visiting places that have other kids.... is that they play so much they wear our kids out.  Running playing.... whatever... in the end, it means that Paola and I get a little more rest time...

Riobamba is in the mountains... Its a bit cooler... and a stones throw from several spots we were going to visit (which I will have to post about later)..... valcano.... parks.... mountains... Pig Roasting Market... 

...if you look closely enough at the last picture... you will notice my red face.... this is not embarasment... this is me recovering from my beach "lobster" burn....

No time for rest.  Just because we finished one family gathering, doesn't mean we get a break!  So we packed our stuff, convinced Paola's parents, and headed for the Bus Station.

Where to?  Riobamba, of course!  Paola had some family up there, and they were waiting.  At the last minute, Paola thought that it would be great for her parents to take a couple of days off and join us.  (I think they would have had more rest at home without the three little angles running around, but that logic flew out the window)...

To some of the adults, this was a long bus ride full of twist and turns in the mountains.  My father in law gets a little motion sickness.  And by a 'little', I mean a lot.... a very much lot.  But to the kids, this was an adventure.  The scenery and sites where beautiful.  So much lush countryside.  And the mountains were beautiful.

But the ride itself was a whole other adventure.  Like the runaway train at Disney world.  Except that there was no track for this bus to keep you safe.... and add to that as it got darker, there was a low mist that made visibility harder and harder.

The driver seemed like he knew this route blind folded... and with so much low visibility when the sun set, and with the rough roads... and with the mist... I believe it!!   But the kids did have a blast, and I found it amusing how they enjoyed the ride..... but every now and then, I would wonder if our wills were up to date... or where we left it... just in case

Day after Christmas.  It had been a late night... we got very little sleep.  You would think that the kids would let us get a couple extra hours of sleep.  Right?  Wrong!

The early kid gets the games? ...well, I guess they feared that if they slept (or let us rest too long) that the games and presents from Christmas would magically disappear.

Day after Christmas is also a time when you get to play with your siblings toys.  Almost like a limited time barter system.  So, why would you think that the kids would even want to wake us up?  Well take a look at this race car track!

Well, these race car tracks don't build themselves.  ...and that is why kids need their parents... at least on this day.

Well, one thing was for sure.  These kids all had big smiles on their faces.... always a good sign.  Sure there is the occasional fight over who gets to play with what... but I guess that is just part of the Christmas game.  We just hope they remember the more important parts and meanings of Christmas...

So I finally got around to doing some more pictures.  I am caught up to Christmas!  Coming home has been hard.  Changing from vacation mode, back to work mode is not easy... but what can you do.

Ok, so first thing... yes, in this picture I am a little read still from the first trip to the beach.  At this point in my recovery, I am no longer able to hear my teeth crying.

The second thing you may be wondering is where Sophia might be.  Being as it was a late night, Sophia did not make it.  She slept .... well... like a baby.

The traditional food for the season is Turkey.  There was tons of food for everyone, but my favorite was the stuffing that my mother in law makes.  It is a sweet stuffing and went great with the turkey and gravy!!

After a few hours of eating... and eating... there was a pause.  Then came the presents!  So many relatives and kids, it was a flurry of wrapping paper and ribbons.  I think in this picture, Matthew is actually trying to open presents with his teeth. 

The phones kept ringing... all different kinds of cell phone tones... Everyone calling everyone to wish them a happy Christmas.  The kids seemed oblivious to everything but their loot.  The parents seems to enjoy more the expressions on the kids faces when they opened up the presents more than anything else.... It almost seemed like the presents would never stop coming.

But like all things... they must.  The kids did also get a chance to play with some fireworks and sparklers.  The laws governing fireworks seem much more liberal there.  You will get a better idea of what I mean when I post the new years pictures.  This picture was taken shortly before Matthew burned his fingers.... yeah.  He just had to test for himself...  He is stubborn, but I must admit I was surprised how little he fused about the burn, and just ran back to play with the cousins.

Click on any of the pictures or HERE to go the gallery for Christmas... again... too many pictures.

There have a been a few of these portable Mc Lunch places that have started to open up in different area's of Ecuador.  Portable Lunch places that serve various things... but the food is not what really caught my eye.

No where in your wildest dream could you franchise something with a name remotely similar to this in the states... I wonder how their burgers taste?  I hear their grilled... 

Well we are back in the states.... safe and sound.  The trip back took a few days longer than expected.  A couple of re bookings by Delta.... a couple of nights at the Hilton due to their mistake.... I am sure if I ever catch up on the pics (and am not abducted by aliens) I can post more about it.

After day one of fun in the sun .... I was red... it usually takes a couple of hours for the red to show it self.  I guess this is where I am supposed to have a picture of my redness.. 

But oh well, since I was taking most of the pictures, there is not a good one of my redness.  But don't worry, on the second beach trip (the second burning), there is a good one with Lobster Briam!

(This is what it looks like when you take a picture of a picture)

Well, we survived the first day out there.  None of the kids were killed... or lost... or imprisoned.  They all played enough to wear themselves out and give the parents a small break.  The second day we spent a lot more time out and about.  The morning was all beach time.

we got there early so we could have one of the shade huts... and all the home town services where everywhere.  We took a couple hundred pictures... (Matthew took a few of my feet which made it to the editing room floor).  Out of all of those, there were a good 75ish, so I created another Gallery. (Click HERE or on any of he pics in this post)

One thing that surprised us was the number of vendors that comb the beaches.  We bought some coco-nut services... jewelry... shirts... shorts... baskets... beers... all from the comfort of our shade refuge.

I think the ice cream visit was the same day (or the day prior), but those pics are also in the gallery.  The company that rules all ice cream in this land with an iron fist is called Pinguino! (Penguin).  It never ceases to amaze me.  The universal power of ice cream to resolve all problems and bring all kids (irregardless of origin) together.

Since this is a coastal country (mainly), there is plenty of seafoods (and specialty sea foods) everywhere.  One of the dishes I prefer is Ceviche de Camaron.  This is like a Shrimp soup/cocktail.  Very delicious.  My wife has had a long list of home style Ecuadorian favorites that she has been crossing off since before I got here.  If you notice the pictures where she is eating/drinking... you will see the shear delight she takes in enjoying her favorite foods.  If you know Paola, you know that people enjoy watching Paola eat... just to see the passion in a simple meal.

Ah, ... still not even close to catching up on the posts.  (Today is Paola's birthday ... and I will have to post about that later... much fun... and her birthday party is tonight!)

This trip has been one of the longest vacations that I have ever taken in my entire life.... (next to those years where I really did not work at all...and pretended to go to school).  Paola (and family in tow) has gotten a chance to see tons of friends and family that she has not seen in years.  Every day there are errands... visits.... lunches... dinners.... all involving friends and family.  In the few short weeks here I have been introduced to so many people that it makes my life seem quiet (and peaceful) in comparison.  I now suspect that Paola knows every person's name in this country.

Well any-who.... We were off to the beach.  Paola's brother (and wife and kids) invited us to their beach house.  We were just going for a couple of days, but day one of course was just getting there ... and making the plan of attack.  The kids of course wanted to go to the pool while the 'adults' planned.  Above is Maria Daniella and Megan showing of the latest swim apparel.

Here we have all the kids enjoying their pool side transports.  There are a bunch of pics, so I just picked a few and added it to another gallery.  Click HERE or on the pool pictures to go to the gallery.

Ah yes... here we are in 2007 and I am no where near caught up on the pics from this vacation (that we are still on).  Before Christmas we did get a chance to go to one of our cousins kids first birthday party.

Here is grumpy Matthew... we were early (which is a very rare characteristic not found in most Spanish genetic build up).

First birthdays are a big deal in these circles.... clowns ... games... face painting... food.... more food.... cake candy!!  That is exactly what we need for the kids.  Sugar with some sugar on top!!

But what goes up must come down... down hard like a plane crash!  This kids spazed out for an hour or two after all the food and sweets.... games and running around.  Matthew was a little sweat ball from all the activity.  Sophia crashed hard on the way out..... like a sack of potatoes we had to carry her out of there.  Megan ate so much she had to go purge a little... sometimes its good to know your limits... and I guess this is how they start learning them.

Click HERE or on the pictures to go to the Gallery for more pictures.

A couple of days ago (before Christmas) we got a chance to go check out Paola’s younger brothers new house.  They had just moved into that house in the last couple of days, and we went to kick it old school!

Xavier is Paola’s younger brother.  Lucy is Xavier’s wife.  They have two lovely daughters, Maria Daniela and Maria Paola. 

We are lucky because the kids all get along really well... like roaming packs of wild gangs from the Bronx.  They play for hours and barely destroy any furniture... well at least not the easily replaced ones...  Luckily, Xavier and Lucy are still moving in with all their stuff, so there are less things for the kids to destroy.

Xavier (and Gang) have come to the states a couple of times to visit, so we have gotten to see them from time to time and also to see their kids grow.  Xavier and Lucy are going to have their hands full when these girls hit their teens! 

Can you see the family resemblance? …and if you look closely you will see Sophia sucking her fingers   …that has got to stop!!  Wonder where she gets that from?

These pictures are before we headed to the beach (Salinas) with them… and I had yet to taste the wrath of our merciless sun on my fair skin!! 

But these kids are ready…. (this is at Abuelo Humberto and Abuela Isabel’s house)  Ready for the sun and the fun…

How the kids are growing.  They are mastering the mixture of Spanish and English with a good division of what to use with who.  We keep at it.  Asking them to say things in Spanish and English…. And in complete sentences…. And please… and thank you…and put the knife down...

…they say that the constant reminders pays off…most likely only like 2% or 3%   I am sure that it will … (hopefully sooner than later…)

The kids had  a couple of days of school and did a nativity scene.  Matthew was a Shepperd, and Megan was a star.

This one did have too many pictures to post... and even out of the ones that we liked it was still too many ... so click on the pic to go to the gallyer... or click HERE.

Of Bananas and kids… Very much like people… bananas come in all shapes and sizes.  Well, ok … maybe not to such a level of differences, but there is one here that you don’t see very often.

Well, in case you did not know, a couple of Ecuador’s biggest exports are bananas and flowers…a flower is a thing of beauty…. So I guess I should focus on the bananas: King of Comedy slapstick

These small bananas are called “Oritos”…a very small and very sweet mini banana... but as the kids like to call them, “baby bananas”.  Of which of course no adult is supposed to eat.. ever! ...so I was told by my all knowing wise three year old daughter.  I know I have seen some of these before… but for the life of me I can’t help think they are part of some dastardly evil plan involving a mad scientist and the testing of a shrink ray…

…or perhaps I am just paranoid…and its all part of natural selection, in where the smaller sized bananas were able to survive their hungry monkey like predators by being to small to see???

Ok… maybe that’s just crazy talk.  Check out this two liter bottle of Coke Light.  The subtle fact that just the shape and name is slightly different is enough to amuse me hours on end.

Irregardless (I love that word) of the food, size, names, etc… one thing is for sure… our kids love to eat.  Does that come from Paola’s side of the family or mine? … most likely both...

Time for a treat.  All this running around is making us hungry, and Megan (since before I got here) was asking me for Pizza.  One of the kids favorite foods.  So we gathered the troops and headed to a strange placed called “a mall”.  This ‘mall’ was called Mall del Sol (Mall of the Sun).  A strange a magical place, where no matter what part of the world you are in, you are transported to a standardized sterile environment of comfort.  The air conditioning flows strong, and the food court rang the familiar names which put the smiles one the kid’s faces…

“Pizza Hut” was the mantra for the evening…. And the kids chanted “Pizza! Pizza!..”  …and a promise is a promise, so we waited.  The kids have been trying a lot of different foods, or foods that are a little different here, but some favorites never change.

The order was placed… the kids waited for the personal serving pleasures.  They talked about how they were going to eat the whole thing all at one time… and I joked about how I had ordered each of them their favorite.  Elephant Pizza!!!   “…NO Papi!!  Yuck!!”   ...someday I am going to have to try Elephant...

Pizza Pizza Pizza  Sometimes its more the emotion or the memory of a thing than the actual thing itself.  Like when you go back to a place you had not been to in many years, and it looks smaller… different.  Or you had your most favorite food from that favorite place…. You come back years later and you think that they must have changed their secret recipe.

Well, my old elementary school did not shrink…I got bigger… (or my memory[image] was getting bigger)  It wasn’t Paola’s favorite pizza place in New York that changed their time honored secret recipe (the same guy was still there making the pizzas)…It was Paola who had changed…

Enough philosophy.  Now time for some games.  What mall would be a mall without some distractions for the kids…(and adults)

If you have ever watched kids play in ‘game/arcade’ places you quickly pick up on the fact that it could be a flying bucket for all they care… and the kids would still have a blast.  Maybe it’s the lights and sounds… or just the motion…. Or the thought that someone may drop some coins in the machine and their may be an opportunity to carry out the attack plans on a neighboring sibling.

…or maybe the kids just dream of getting on a plane…and taking a trip to a magical land where their parents let them eat all the junk food and candy they can stand.

…maybe it was all the ice cream they ate before we played… or maybe it was just the novelty of visiting this fun filled place…with my sugar jacked up kids…but a wave of nostalgia hit me… and thought back (..way back)... I remember also trying to gun down my brothers and sisters in an arcade…  …ah good times…. Good times.

They say it is not the destination but the journey …. And this journey is a long one.  A large portion of our time is spent getting around from place to place.  Mostly doing some errands that Paola has tucked away in her vacation schedule.  Too many things to really do in the time allotted… but one can dream.  But one must never speak out against the Dream … or SMACK!  Moving around is mainly by cabs and the family taxi/friend (“Mr. Ochoa”).  Better to help a friend/family than some random stranger (Paola always says).

Well one of our stops on this day, was Paola’s replacement Ecuadorian ID.  Oddly enough this was stolen three or four years ago in the US and mainly gone unmentioned until now, where it has become a subject of utmost urgency.  But before you could apply you had to have either the old one (to renew) or a reported ‘theft of’ from the local government office.  Well the local  “Governacion” office is where we had to go.  Well first off, the first thing you start to notice is that there are no wood and Sheetrock buildings ANYWHERE.  And these office buildings where no different.  All of the buildings are stone, marble and concrete.  This collection of buildings was no exception.

We were greeted by this statue in front of the government buildings.  Soldiers and police are everywhere.  That is another big difference here.  Labor cost are much lower, and it shows at any place where there are people or things of value.  These buildings are near the newly remodeled area of Malecon.  We will be going back there when there is a little more touring time.  It’s an area right on the river with shops, restaurants and parks.  Well any-who, We go into the office and it is the incarnated essence of ‘red tape’ and paper work.  No two government workers tell you the same thing.  Directions to the rooms you need to visit are cryptic and half way incorrect.

After visiting half a dozen wrong rooms a couple of maybe right rooms…and getting the wrong forms…. wrong forms again… bad copy forms…. Out dated forms…. Then correct form, we were then informed that we would have to take this ‘Holy Grail’ form and go somewhere with it and make a copy of it????  No Lie!!  So we went to the first friendly copier guy…. But he had the copying machine that made blurry and faded tilted copies that were not accepted… (but he kept working there anyways)…. Then we found a guy in another building who got us what we needed.  Now it was time to get it filled out… The old guy in the picture is a single finger slow motion typer that fills out the forms.  I felt like we were in some silly government sitcom.  No way this was a real situation…

We did get to see one of the new year “Viejos”.  This is a giant tradition here in Ecuador where they make a giant ‘doll’ of famous people, characters….etc.  Then they are displayed … everyone shows of their great work on making these dolls.  These dolls represent the old year (Viejo)… and when it is new years, they are all set ablaze.  Well in this government office we got to see this Viejo… waiting for his turn at the flames to kick of the new year!

The city has gone through a lot of renovations since last I was here.  There are a lot of new areas, and a bunch of the historical places have been revamped.  There are a bunch of new parks and a lot of new decorative statue/display thingies.  This is a giant iguana that is built near one of the parkways.  There is also a giant bird that I need to capture on digital film soon….

Well the kids let out of school…. Some more running around and we came home to join them.  Sophia looked sleepy, so I tried to talk her into a nap.  The kids were all still very clingy since they had not seem me in so long... so they all followed me to Nap time… but oddly enough, none of them would stay still long enough to nap…. And I had hoped that I might get a nap in since I had not gotten much time to sleep, and my little angels had woken me up early.

Before I knew it, Paola was grabbing my arm and telling me we had some more running around to do.  Of course we did…  We had to buy Megan’s star wand and Matthew’s shepherd outfit.  Along the way she noticed a old sweet shop that she used to love…. So of course, how could we not stop.

A lot of the home made and typical foods here were very affordable, but a lot of the imported items cost the same as in the states…. Or more.  Funny how you start noticing a lot of the little differences…. Or not, but you know something is different about it.  For instance, the Diet Coke… I had not thought about it … but realized that here ‘Diet’ has no meaning… so its Coke Light.  …in the stores you see 3 liter cokes as a norm?  2 litter bottles look like the single serving bottles…

The plane trip really did seem uneventful.  I finally did start reading that book that I was not able to start at the airport.  I guess once I was locked into a moving plane with no escape… not much else I could do.  It’s a really great book by Stephen King … a book he started back in the 70s … and just finished in 2003+  “The Gunslinger” Series  Have I mentioned that I have not read a book for leisure in over 10 years?  Well, before I could even finish my book, we were there… another country, on the other side of the planet.  Ecuador!  It’s a very different world and culture that never ceases to amaze me.  I have been to Ecuador several times, years ago, but this was the first time that I had come since the new airport opened up.  It’s all new and modern, very nice.  The older airport, you had to climb down from the plane on the portable stairs, and walk to the terminal on the runway (which was kind of neat).

My wife and her brother picked me up, and it was like I had not seen my wife and kids in months.  The kids had stayed at home sleeping, since it was a late night arrival.  I had the urge to wake them up, but of course that was crazy since it was almost one in the morning.  Since my wife and kids had left (a couple of weeks ago) I had started to grow a fuzzy beard.  Not the cut one that I normally wear, but she did not really notice.  She kept saying that I looked different, but could not put her finger on it.

Of course we were all beat when we got to the house, we chatted for a little while, but we had to get some sleep.  The little angels would be up bright and early to make sure that I was not accidentally getting any rest.  We can’t have any of that on vacation…

The kids were all very excited that I was finally there… most likely they suspected that I had secretly been getting rest and quiet…. (and they were right).  But that was all over now.  It was time to have fun (and tired times) with the family.  

The kids were all so excited about the little school they were attending this week.  They were having so much fun with their new little friends, and also with the Christmas play that they were going to put on in a few days.

The school was putting on a Nativity scene.  Megan was going to be a little star and Matthew was going to be one of the shepherds.  Sophia, of course was going to help supervise while eating as much candy and junk food as her little stomach could handle.

It is so good to see Paola and the kids again.  I did not think I was going to make it.  I don’t think I ever want go without them for that long again… (or at least until they drive me nuts)…

I could have used a little more rest before the kids woke me up…maybe tomorrow will bring a little more rest, but ‘All signs point to no”

So much to post… and time is flying.  Paola already has the days filled with activities that are a MUST… Family…. Friends… food…. Parties…. Plays…. Food…. Beach…. Food…. Sunburn….food… mountains… food…. Volcano…. Food… giant tralantulas... food.... burning 'the old man'... You get the idea.

The time had finally come… it had seemed like months that I had not seen my family…. My beautiful wife… my wonderful little angels (fallen)… The closer the day came… the more I thought about them.  My life seemed a lot different these past few days… Everything I planned was happening on time… where before, we could not be on time to save our lives.  Everything that I cleaned around the house stayed clean, where before, there was no way to catch up to the mess left by our three mini tornadoes.   …and the quiet!  Oh the blissful silence that filled the house.  I kicked on some tunes every now and then…. It was nice…   I put on some Christmas music…. It was nice… for awhile.  After some time (who knows how long) it became a haunting curse.  This giant house was now just a huge clean quiet museum.  It was maddening…. How I started to miss the noise of my family…

So the journey begins!  I did get a chance to see my parents for lunch before I left.  My Dad took me to the airport.  The last couple of days it had started to dawn on me that this would be the first Christmas/New Years that we had ever spent outside of the US in countless years (I can’t count very high).  Who is this lady in the picture?  I think she is some famous actress that my generation does not remember…

Well any who…. After a quick check in…. and a quick tran to my terminal, there I was…. In my seat in front of this picture on the wall.  On the international terminal…. Waiting.  Just a few hours till boarding….

Time seemed to slow down…. Almost stop.  And of course I knew the cause.  That cursed carrot was mocking me… delighting in my torture.  Delighting in prolonging my waiting and suffering.  I knew I had to fight back… but how?

Nutrition….. Time to eat!  Nothing says health and prosperity like an airport hot dog.  No skimping here… I even had two packets of ketchup to splurge on it.  A nice cold diet Pepsi to wash it down… I guess my real goal was the expectation that I would finish my meal, and magically the time to my flight would disappear.  I had tried reading a book… but every other paragraph lead me back to the clock on the wall… I felt like I was in the movie “Ground Hog Day” except for it was “Airport Day” …. And it wasn’t the day repeating… it was these last few hours.

I had started to lose hope… as if the plane would never arrive… but then I heard the sweet soothing sounds of Christmas carolers…. In the Airport?  At that point I knew that my hot dog must be tainted.  Spiked!!  Who knew what elicit drugs where causing my delusions.  The paintings on the walls were talking to me… the carrot was mocking me… the food was yummy (for airport food)…. And now Carolers going terminal gate to terminal gate singing Christmas songs????  Surely I was on the brink of madness!

Well… maybe the madness has always been with me.  But my time was up.  All aboard!  I got on my flying corn plane and headed out to Ecuador.  I asked them if there was going to be a meal and a movie… and sure enough … “Children of the Corn”, corn bread, corn flakes, and pop corn.  :-P

Not too long ago, I was thinking to myself .... "I can't get any work done with all these kids distracting me..."

...but now I find myself alone with my fuzzy shoes... and no one to distract me.  Now that I think about it.... that seems more like a distraction than having the kids always playing around me... but not to fear...  I will soon be with them!! 

Well.... the madness is setting in.   I dropped my wife and kids at the airport last week.  This is the longest we have ever been apart.  I miss them something terribly.  They are in Ecuador at my in-laws.  The kids are having a blast and playing a lot with their cousins and uncles and grandparents ... oh my.  Paola is also having a blast (its a bit hard with three kids... but she has some help now).  She is getting to see old friends and family that she has not seen in years.

I don't get to go out there to visit for a couple more days... but it is starting to seem like a lifetime.  There is an old saying ... "...distance makes the heart grow fonder..."  At first I kept super busy with all the stuff I had to finish for church and work... and around the house... and saying 'goodbye' to friends....  but now that I am almost all ready, I have time to focus on the silence in my home, and all I keep doing is replaying memories of my family.  You start to forget all those little things that drove you nuts.... the mess the kids make... all those things we take for granted.

Technology today helps to make the world seem smaller.  I do get to talk to my wife and kids almost every day.  Her parents have a Internet phone thingy that lets us call them for free....  and on top of that.... theirs email....every day....   Its almost like they are just at a friends house or something...

I thank God everyday for my wife.... my kids.... my family.... my friends ...and all the blessings He gives us that we don't deserve.  Its times like this that remind me,... its not about 'stuff'.  It does not matter so much what we have.... but who we spend our lives with.  I miss them so much, that if I think about it too much I get chocked up.... (guys are not supposed to hint that they might possibly ever think about maybe crying.... maybe)

Well, the thing that has helped me out is knowing that its only a few more days away till I am back with my family...

Last month there was a thanksgiving family/parent thingy at the kid's school.  Full of Indians and pilgrims.  Paola and I both got a chance to go, and through the wonders of modern digital photography, this glimpse back in time to the first Thanks Giving was captured.

Not only that, but they all lined up for us... All the kids participated, and there was  nice little play/song/dance(?) they put together for us.  I am sure this will be the next big hit on Broadway.

Well the Indians did not keep their 'gear' on too long, and soon they were released to sit at the assigned seats.  They brought with them their arts and crafts.  I thought that I would buy some stuff with beads and nick knacks, but this little Indian wanted real $$ for this hand crafted genuine piece of American History.... and of course I could not say no.

Ok Ok.   I am sorry that I have not been posting much lately.... birthday... vacation... Ecuador.... Lonely Briam...  :-P   ....I guess I better start catching up.

Lets start back a couple of weeks.  Megan turned 3 on 11/24/2006!!  Thats right.  She is already asking Paola if she can wear make up....  seriously....

Well, any-who.  We had a party at one of those inflatable able bouncy wear your children out places.   Click on this picture to see more!!!

or HERE ....

Its hard to remember the first time I faced death.  I mean when I was just a child.... was it a bug... a pet.... a plant/flower.  I know that if I touch a plant now.... instant death.  I kind of have a black thumb.

Well anyways, our cat was nice enough to bring us a little mouse friend.  Unfortunately this one was not very talkative.... he also did not eat much...  or move...

...ok ... well, he was dead.

The kids did have a few questions.... and I can only imagine what was going on in their heads.

 I guess we all go through the phases of "Death" differently..... from knowing..... to understanding.... to accepting.  And I guess this little guy is part of that process.

Sometimes you need a small cooler to carry around some cold refreshing things...   specially on nice hot days like (not) today....

The real hard part is just getting everything in there... its like it all just doesn't want to fit.  Maybe we just need to call in some help from the three amigos.

Ok,... maybe not the three amigos.  But our three kids.  This is a picture from the dress up party that they had at their school.  This is a rough group if ever I saw one.

So thanksgiving is upon us.  The local part of the clan came over today to gorge away for hours.... more food than should be normally allowed for that many people.

We have so much to give thanks for.... at the end of all that eating... I was glad that we survived so much eating.  And just when I thought that I would burst from too much food, then came the desserts.

Well, one of our little princesses has some other celebration on its way.  Tomorrow Little Megan turns the big 3. 

She is already asking when she will be allowed to wear makeup....  I guess Paola and I will have to take turns putting her off..... until she is 40.

A couple of days ago, the kids to a chance to go to one of their friends birthday parties.  It was full of fun and cake... and a lot of rides.

Here is princess Megan on her zebra.  That sure is not something you see everyday.

Here is Matthew on his new pet dragon.  We told him he could keep the dragon as a pet, but only if he potty trains it.....

...So I laid down to take a little nap when I got home... and fell flat out asleep!  So now I need to go back to sleep... but thought I would post a little late night Pic.

I thought the porch days where over... but I guess there is still a couple of days left...  I guess at some point I will have to get a grill.... and learn how to cook out.  Buenas Noches everyone!

Everyone knows the story of The three little bears... well bears don't just go on trees you know.  Before they can have their little home invasion story, someone has to make and prepare those bears for the long story ahead.

First we have little worker Sophia.... she paints the innocent face on the little bear.  He will be the one that is most impacted when the little blond girl breaks into his home and eats his food, breaks his little chair, and sleeps in his bed.  Poor little guy.

Next we have worker Megan making the mama bear.  Her face will need to be caring and loving.  She will need to be the voice of calm after the break in so that the father bear does not fly off the handle.

Last, but not least, we have Papa bear.  He will need the stern face.  After the home break in, life will change for this bear family.  Maybe change the locks.  Maybe file a police report.  Maybe file a lawsuit....

Here they are hard at work.  It takes a lot of work and effort to make these fairy tales come true.... but in the end, it is well worth it.

Last month we had a chance to take a little get away into the woods for a few days.  But before I take you to the woods... I have to share this cute picture.

This is Queen Tut... she came to visit at one of our little family get togethers...  But now, into the woods.  That weekend, we also did have a birthday party there for Christian, full of burgers, dogs, and pirates!

You can click on the picture to go to the photo goodness... or CLICKHERE!!

You know that old song... about the bears sleeping in the bed.  One feels crowded.... "I'm crowded...roll over... so they all roll over..."

 Well at the beginning of the story in this bed, I was all the way to the left..... and one by one, my little bears wanted me to roll over.... they were crowded.  So I called out to my wife for help.... since I surely soon would be doomed to fall off the edge of the world.  So what does she do? ...she runs to get the camera.

No not me... I don't get to take a break.... 

I was talking about my little helpers.  A few weeks ago, Paola sent out this picture of the deck that we had finished.  It is a bit chilly now for the deck, but it was fun while it lasted...

Here are our little angels resting...... after a hard day of helping me put together patio furniture.... (hard for me that is...) 

The girls are growing.  Its amazing how one day they are just sucking their thumbs and then the next day they are asking to drive the car.

These girls are hard to keep up now... I can only imagine what it will be like when they are teenagers.... heaven help us.

The weather is starting to get a bit chilly.  Not much to say tonight..... oh so tired.  We have been over booked lately.

Just chillin with some cold beverages on the deck.... while the warm weather lasts.

...good times.  Good times...

Some of the greatest structures in life are built right in the comfort of our own home.  First we have the Baby Lego tower, built by the three resident architects.

Next comes the big kid Lego House.  Not sure who put it all together, but you can guess who took it apart.

This last one is just the stairs.... This one is more of Daddy's play structure since it is connected to the desk.

So we have not seen much of Bob lately... but we did get a chance to meet Bob II.

Bob II is not as spunky as Bob (1), but he is still polite enough.  He does not say much, and he did not stick around long... but at least he did have that cool leaf camouflage thing going.

That oh so familiar sound.  The simple chime mounted on a van.  That simple tone that you can't confuse for any other....  The song of the ice cream truck.

Matthew had been saving his coins for some time..... he thought it was an eternity.  Several times he had come to me with coins in his spider-man wallet asking "...dad, is this enough to buy an ice cream?"  Megan and Sophia take the easy road, they just smile and give me that sweet innocent smile they know that I can no resist....

We are now in October... and the weather is getting colder.... I think that the ice cream truck visits will be far and few between.  But not all sweets come with a theme song...

The sweet taste of chocolate pudding.... can put a smile on anyone's face.  Either that or Megan is putting on a fake mustache to fool the paparazzi.  You never see broccoli putting a smile like this on anyone's face.

Its good to have heroes.  People we look up to and admire.  Specially if they taste good on a stick....

I guess there are some reasons we try to reach our heroes.... in some ways, we need to surpass them or be them to reach our goals....  Matthew is holding Raphael, one of the Teenage mutant ninja turtles...... so cold ... so tasty.... I guess Matthew will have to find another hero.

...when someone knocks on the door, you normally expect a friend... a neighbor.... or even a vendor/sales person.

 The last person you expect to come visit is the 'Bob'.  Thats right.  Bob the conquerer.  Bob the future ruler of the world.  He is really quite daunting at first glance.... and don't mention his beady eyes.... but for a praying mantis he is pretty well mannered, as long as he is not angered.  ....It was nice meeting Bob, but I think the kids were a little relieved when he finally left.

There are some lessons in life that are harder to learn than others.   This lesson was learned a couple of weeks ago by Matthew.

This is the top of a can.  So... I had a drink... and what does Matthew usually do? ...he likes to snap the flip top piece from the cans.  Their shinney... their neat.  Why not?  Well, here is one good reason for "why not?"

So this is a picture of the flip top after Matthew decided to experiment with it.  If you look closely you will notice that it has snaped... and has some black charred sections.... what could a little four year old boy do to destroy this piece of metal?

...and here is Matthew's tool of choice.  I know I have told him on several occasions that he should not play with outlets.  And that he should never stick anything in an outlet.... but I guess he did not really learn it when I told him.  He had to learn this lesson the hard way.  He was in pain... and kept shaking his hand saying it stings.... but he did not cry.  I think he was more shocked than anything else when he was thrown back from the outlet...  Thank God he is ok... and hopefully it will be awhile before he does something crazy like this again.... maybe a week or two? 

Some crimes have no rhyme or reason.  Some crimes have no purpose.  ....but you do the crime... you do the time.

But thats just the start.  The real question is, who planed this horrible crime against man kind (...or the living room)....  but these evil doers are now paying the price (time out chairs)  Those kids can't fool me... specially Sophia... playing like she is all innocent.  I think she is behind this plan.  Luckily, local law enforcement(Paola) was at hand to stop them.

There are special people in our lives.... the kind that we share special moments with.  Special moments like growing a plant... or fighting over the crayons.

Here we have a special moment captured in time.... a rare time where friends aren't fighting or throwing things at each other....  rare moments indeed.  Lets just hope the plants make it.

Sometimes I feel so truly blessed it hurts.  Its not about the bling bling or the shiny toys and gadgets.  Although I do like my tech toys.  Sorry, back to the point.  If you stop and think about it... what do we work so hard for every day?  It should be our family.

Here is a picture of my Queen Paola and half of my princesses (Megan).  Well anyways, I come home soooooo tired sometimes.  And sometimes in a grouchy mood.  But as soon as I walk through that door, my kids cheer me up.  They all come running and hug me, yelling "Daddy's Home!".  Even Sophia comes running yelling "daddy!"

So I work so hard to give them what they need/want, but in the end what they want/need is my time.  I guess I just have to keep reminding myself that every day.

To become one of the worlds greatest puzzle masters takes a lot of things.  Skill ... a Keen eye....and an iron will!

...and I guess it does not hurt if the puzzle only has three pieces.  Well I guess its a start.

So a couple of weeks ago the kids were all about playing with their toys and such, when a brilliant idea overpowered Megan.  Why was she wasting all these times playing with these lifeless dolls, when she had a real live walking talking baby sister doll?

Megan tried a few of her princess outfits on her to see how she would look.  And then she showed her of to her family.  The odd part is that Sophia did not mind her older sister dressing her up at all...

I know that I would probably have some issues if Megan asked me to put on the princess outfits......again.... 

I am sorry that I have not been posting as much as normal.  Let me tell you why.... Two weeks ago I started getting up earlier than normal.... so that I could go to work earlier.  Sure I am walking around like a zombie... but hopefully I will get used to it before too long.

The end goal is so that I can spend more time at home.  Sounds very good in theory... but the problem is that the kids wear me out even more.... and I have to try to go to sleep early.... and the cycle starts all over.

Above is a picture of some flowers I got for Paola.... she deserves them... and so much more for all the hard work she puts into raising our kids..... but these are no ordinary flowers.

They seem to not want to die..... more than that... they were a bit creepy.... Maybe they have been genetically enhanced, or chemically injected with something.  But it was getting a bit scary how long these were lasting....   It seemed unnatural.

A couple of weeks ago, we got a chance to see some friends and enjoy a birthday party.  It was a lot of fun seeing all the kids run around like crazed candy powered destruction bots... afterwords some of us got a chance to go out to dinner (where there was also a kids playground)....

Click on the picture to check out of some of the birthday pics!

Most battles at home are not over territorial despuits.... or trade agreements.  Most of the battles at home are over who gets to watch their favorite show...

...I guess all is fair in love and war.  But if you don't get your way with the remote... you might as well go get the phone and call the grand parents.   Sophia knows that if she can reach the grandparents, they may be able to help.

 ....With help on the way... what are the kids to do..... here is one idea.

I had been wondering why the toilet paper roles are always so squished.... well if you look closely, it turns out that Matthew has been using the packs of toilet paper rolls as a sled to go down the stairs....at some point I think I am going to have to have a talk with him on proper in house sled use....

 If you could not tell, one of Megan's favorite colors is pink.  She says that pink is the color for a princess.  Here she is ready for school.  This would be a very special day filled with animals. 

 ...and by animals, I mean that Megan made a bear at school.  Yes a bit frightening, but we must all face our fears.

 Meanwhile, Sophia was being attacked by a giant snake monster.... a vary rare but colorful species of toothless snake!

 Look at the fear in her eyes.... no one wants to be eaten by that crazy snake.... so its time to call in the hero.  Well ok, maybe the hero in training.  Matthew to the rescue!

 The battle was fierce and lasted a long time.  Almost five whole minutes.  But in the end the kids escaped and all was good.

The only thing that scares me now is that crazed look on Matthews face.... like I am next! 

Tonight's story is a story as old as time... About a hero,... a beauty in distress, and the never ending quest for sleep!!

To reach the sleeping beauty we must first cross the perilous land of dinosaurs.  Not just one or two.... but all of them I think!  They roam the land like uncontrollable beast of destruction.  Thankfully they all lined up for the group photo.

 Also in the picture is Matthew "Dino Trainer" Fachisthers.  He makes it look so easy.  Unfortunately after the photo the dinosaurs were spooked and he was trampled.  He should recover in a few weeks.  But his sacrifice was not in vain.  He was able to buy you enough time to reach the land of Sleeping Beauty.

And here we are.  Beauty and the Sleeping...... I play the role of sleeping... or at least trying.  And Beauty is played by Sophia.  Her job is to not let me rest and to try to wake me up if I try to sleep.  Don't let that cute innocent little face fool you.  She is good at her job, and very few of my days are filled with the recommended allowance of sleep.

Unfortunately that is where this story ends.  And it does not end happily.  Well at least not until Sleeping gets some rest when the kids go off to college...

So its official.  Sophia no longer fits in the breadbox.  She is getting so big.  She used to be tiny (about the size of the breadbox that she is leaning on)

Now Sophia is saying more words than ever... she pushes the chairs to the counter and climbs up to get whatever she wants.  Maybe if we ask her to stop growing so fast she will slow it down for us. 

A few days ago we had a little birthday party for Me and My mom.  It was a little get together and some good old fashion BBQ.

Click on this picture to check out some more pictures or go to the Gallery (Right Side Menu).  If you look closely at the pictures.... you will see some pictures of my nephews and nieces who really hate having their pictures taken.... that makes them even more special...

Last week we got a chance to visit some family in Florida.  Alejandro and Soraya just had their baby boy Gabriel and we wanted to go visit.... well I guess we were not the only ones.... Click on this picture to see the gallery.

Our kids got a chance to meet and play with a bunch of their cousins.  We also got a chance to hit the beach.... ah sun.... sand.... surf.... sunburn.... peeling...  good stuff.  If you stayed still too long you would most likely get ambushed... or fall into a sand trap...

In the end we all made it back alive.  Don't forget to click on the pictures or HERE for more pics from Florida!

"Dear Santa, I know I am a bit early, but I wanted to send you this email to beat the rush.  I know that you get busy so I wanted to send you my Christmas request early..."

"...I want to ask for a few things for myself, but also a few things for my brother and sister..."

"Look Megan!  I told you if we stopped beating her up it would pay off!"

So I was playing around with a new free little tool from Microsoft called:  Photo Story 3  It was a pretty easy even for someone like me with very limited artistic ability...

So click on the little windows Media Player button..... I am sure that with this level of skill and sheer genious I will win an oscar or emmy.. or something....

....so school is back in session!  And what a relief.  Well at least it does give my wife a little break in the day so she can recover from their craziness.  We all react different to things that excite us. 

Matthew celebrates with some jumping around and screaming for joy....

Megan wants to get all prettied up for the occasion...

Sophia is just in shock over everyone making a big deal...

I just hope that they behave themselves and don't hit on any kids.  They do play a bit rough at times and some kids are not used to that....

New backpacks for the older two... and also lunch boxes.  Sophia has to suffer with the lady bug that Megan used last year.  A new year... some new friends... some new learning.  (...and some rest for the mom)

There are lots of races.  All the time.  Some are for fame.  Some are for money.  But few hold the honor and prestige of The Ultimate Race.  Years and years of tradition to even qualify for this race.... well ok.... all you have to do is show up.... and this was the first time.  But I am getting ahead of myself.  First there is the excruciating training and preparation.  Part of this preparation, of course, is a healthy nutritious POWER SHAKE!!

 Ah THE POWER SHAKE.  Only a super secrete blend of things and stuff that Paola has to hand select.... and mix... but it may just be what these kids need to win an edge over each other.  Because soon it is race time!

There is no wimpy starting line.... or checkered flag.  (because we don't have one).... there is only grit and determination in this race.  Its every kid for themselves...  But in the end, there can only be one victor... or is everyone a victor?

Here is our latest contestant.  She was only able to come in third... but she seems happy enough just being allowed to race with the others.

And after the dust settles.... its time to wind down with a celebration ice cream!  It just so happened that the ice cream truck came by.  If you look closely, you can see the imitation sponge bob ice creams.  I always asked myself if they like him so much, why do they want to bite his head off? 

....who knows what will happen at the next annual Ultimate Race... only time will tell.

 So this past Sunday the kids finally had their day on stage.  They have been practicing for weeks some of their cute dance songs for the church.  We were very proud of them.

Megan was a little shy at first, but soon she was dancing and jumping as if she had ants in her pants.  Matthew was a little more serious about the whole thing, but he put on quite a show.

The pictures are a little blurry.... (I was not the one taking the pictures) and I have to assume it was for one of the following reasons:

1. The kids were moving
2. The camera person was moving
3. The camera person was nervous from being so close to the Rock Stars!!!!

... But these kids did love their fans.  They all receive a giant applause from everyone.  And you could see the huge smiles on their faces.... its good to be loved by your audience!

A couple of days ago, Alejandro and Soraya's baby was born.  Gabriel is his name.  And he is a bit early, but doctors say he is doing great.  Just a few more days to fatten him up a bit.

We will get a chance to see him this weekend... and I am sure after he has a few Ecuadorian meals he will be feeling a lot better.

As for the kids... they are doing fine.  Sophia keeps wanting to join Matthew and Megan in swim class.... but swim class is almost over.  Just one day left... but if it keeps raining, that may not happen.

Megan is getting bolder... but will need more practice before she swims without her noodle.  Matthew is doing great.... and learning different swimming styles.  He has already swam the length of the pool several times and the instructor has said he can join the kids swim team next year.

As for Paola and me.... we are being attacked by a mountain of cloths since we are cleaning up our closet....   ... keep us in your prayers!

 Some days seem much longer than others... and normally its because of what fills it.  The day had a lot of promise right from the beginning.  The rain was stopping for a few days.  The kids were sleeping a little longer because they are worn out from the swimming classes.  Sophia was feeling a little better.  She has been suffering from a slight ear infection, but it was passing.

 So, I was trying to get up for work... but it was hard to, because the bed kept calling me.  Oh sweet blissful sleep.  The only thing I was missing was the quiet part.  Thats when the wake up crew arrived.  Sophia and Megan were the first to arrived.  They did not hesitated to make all kinds of noises to try to get me out of bed... but I just pretended I was asleep.... hoping they would give up.... but they didn't.

 ...shortly after this peaceful picture, it was all jumping and hitting until I got up.  And off to work I went.  I wanted to get as much done as I could at the office so that I could rush home.... why? ...because I love my family.... and the Matthew's new bedroom furniture had arrived.  Matthew is now big enough to get a bigger bed.  And get his own room.  So Sophia is now moving in with Megan, and Matthew is moving to Sophia's old room.  I rush home and work feverishly to put together all of Matthew's new furniture.

 And of course we had to get Matthew a cool new Superman theme for his bedding.  Along with that we had to get Megan the princess theme bedding so we would not start another civil war....  We are still trying to recover from the last one...

So what to do with Sophia.  She has already jumped out of her crib a few times, so she too was ready for a toddler bed.  She seems all excited and playful when everyone is awake and she is on the bed... but when it is time to sleep.... she doesn't think play time is over!!  I guess it could be worse, but the one that is really suffering is the roommate Megan.  The other downside is that now when Sophia wakes up... she is not in a cage... and free to come complain!!

So sure, Sophia is ready to go.... but OH NO!!! ... She is too young to drive...Well at least thats what the law says... So what do you do then? .... you have to go to your big sister!

Besides... what are big sisters for.  When you need that helping hand for the things you are not old enough to do on your own yet.  ...well maybe she should be wearing shoes before she drives... but at least she has her seat belt on.  I think she will need it.

No time to stop.  Purse in hand and stroller ready to roll, nothing can slow down this toddler on the run.  Sophia has to many errands to stop for a quick interview with me... but I am sure that once she has some time for me... she will give me a ring from her celly.

I really don't know where she thinks she is going... she is not yet old enough to drive...   But maybe if I take her, she will give me a nice tip. 

Check this out.... Matthew is now 4 and going to Vacation Bible School.  Click on his picture and he will tell you all about it.

Ah to be young and crazy.  To be old enough and mature enough to make ones own choices.  To choose ones own life style... and mostly.... to choose ones own cloths!

I don't remember having that much fashion sense when I was two... or having such cool clothing options.  But with my fashion sense... that is probably a good thing.  I think they get their tastes from Paola.

So some time ago, the kids had convinced us that it was time for a new play set.  The little plastic one was no longer holding its amusement for them.  So a little over a month ago we bought one of those "build it yourself" play sets from the store (Sam's club).  I have had a ton of odd hour work lately... so it took me awhile to put together.

Actually it took about a month.  Board by board... piece by piece.... stain it... attach it... but finally it was done.  The kids seem to like it.... which makes me happy.  Now if only we can grow some grass around it.  That will take a little more time.  On the 4th of July we had a little barbecue here, and we had a bunch of kids put the play set to the test.  I am glad that they did not destroy it or set it on fire.... 

The kids are still on break..... except for swimming classes, but Paola still finds the time to work with them when she can.  Here is Matthew practicing his spelling....

Paola emailed me this picture and said:  "This was the day he spelled 50 words correctly from 53 And knew all the vocabulary in Spanish except for 6.  Isn't that amazing???"

Now that he is spelling ... I will have to watch my back, its only a matter of time before he starts correcting my writing.... (I am a horrible speller)...

The weather is getting kind of weird.... hot ... rain ... hot ... rain.  Makes me wish I had some ice cream!!

This was also from Hilton Head... nice little ice cream parlor they have near the beach.... oh that would hit the spot right about now...

We finally got a chance to take a little break and drive out to Hilton Head for a few days of rest and relaxation.... Here we are at the beach right behind the hotel.  The weather was great.... maybe a little too hot for me (and my white skin).... but I lived.

 There was plenty of rest time, and sun time.  To be honest... I did come home looking like a lobster from all the sun... but I am all better now.

 The hotel we stayed at did have kid activities that helped distract them from time to time.  They had arts and crafts.... and some fun games and activities that the kids loved.  One of these such events was the world renown 2006 Turtle National speed master race.

 This was a very grueling and challenging competition.  Selecting the champions was just the first step.  Then there was some intense training sessions... but in the end there could only be one champion.

 If you look into these turtles eyes... you see nothing but desire for victory.  The races where on...  and in one of the elimination rounds Matthew and Megan's turtles ran head to head.

 In the end, Megan's turtle blew Matthew's turtle away..... it was sad really.  Matthew's turtle did not even move while Megan's ran for its life.  Above is Matthew on one of the stone animals around the pool.  Below we have a picture of some sand castles that we found on the beach.... as the tide came in... these fortresses fell.  Matthew did enjoy jumping on a couple of them.

One of the other activities that they had at the hotel was Battleship!!  But not the game that I remember and love.  These cool inflatable wave runners were batter powered..... they were driveable...(not very fast).... but they did come with a water gun in the front center.  And the wars began..... no one was safe.... even innocent passerbys where easy target for these sea pirates.

 Here is a picture of my girls... Fun in the sun and a little work on the tans...

We had a great time, but sometimes you need a vacation from your vacations..... Or maybe thats just the sun burn talking. 

After weeks of swim class... sometimes you just want to go home and get away from the pool.  Well at least the big pool.  Maybe start a hunt.... a scavenger hunt for rainbows?  They say there is gold at the end of the rainbow....

But some rainbows do have gold.... but not just any gold.  Golden pineapples from the sky.

So perfect and sweet....  So the moral of the day.... "seek and you will find"....  But we don't always know what we are seeking.... and we never know what we will find.

.....where to begin?  So a couple of days ago some friends gave Matthew a turtle.  Well sure before he got the turtle, there was some begging and promises about how well he would take care of the new family pet....

So, this is what our turtle looked like... except his eyes where green.  This picture is stolen from the Internet since we did not get a chance to take our own picture or our now former turtle.  So what happened to this turtle?  HE TRICKED ME!!

He looked at me with those sad turtle eyes.... all he wanted was a little fresh air... some dirt under his feet... was that so bad?  ....besides... he is a turtle... its not like he could out run me...

I put him outside in a boxed in area.... under the new playground I am building while I did a little work.  No way that turtle could have climb it..... so I thought.  I came back a few minutes later... and poof... gone.... I searched around and around the area, but to no avail.... that turtle had escaped!!

Oh if only that was the end of the story.  My son was so mad at me.  "Dad, you were supposed to keep an eye on him..."  "Dad, I can not believe how irresponsible you were..."  It almost broke my heart to see my son crying because I had let the turtle get away...

I guess I will have to be more careful with the next pet...

Sometimes I just have no idea whats going on in some of the pictures that get taken while I am at work slaving away for my loved ones...

Anyways.... check this picture out.

What started out as a nice gesture of assistance in the kitchen could blossom into a thriving career!  There has to be a big demand for singing chefs..... I think...

No more need for hand holding... and baby spoons.  Sophia has been hitting the big league for awhile.

So sure, there may be a little bit here and there that did not make it to the right place, but I think we can call it a victory when the bowl does not end up on the floor.

At some point.... Story time will not be fun.  It will be filled with homework and assignments... it will lose its appeal and become a chore.

But for now... it is still enjoyable.  Even I enjoy it.... thats right.  Story time before bed is one of my favorites.... well, at least when they are paying attention.... or don't ask for the same book for the 100th time.... Other than that, it is one of my cherished time with the kids.

So the other day I saw this picture that Paola took of one of Matthew's drawings.

At first glance, this appears to be a sweet picture of Matthew, family and friends.... but if you look closer....you will notice that the smiles on the faces are really an elaborate system of determining if they are in good favor with Matthew.  One has to ask, why would you need to keep track of how good/bad people are to you?  ...perhaps if things get rough and the smiles become frowns, then this happy little portrait becomes a hit list...   I knew he was up to something.... now I just have to figure out how to stay on his good side.

Its that time of year, and swimming is in the air..... ok, maybe not in the air, but you know what I mean.  I hope.

This year Matthew is not alone.  Megan is also taking swim classes.  We were very lucky that the class was not full, so the teacher for Matthews higher class said she could also make time for Megan (who should be in the beginner class).  I think it helps her out since she is more confident with her older brother around.  Matthew is back in rare form, and doing well in his class.

By the end of this swim session (two weeks) he will be able to swim across the whole pool.  He loves the water.  I wish I could go with them to swim class.  Last year the classes we took were later in the day, so on days that I got out of work earlier I was able to go swimming with them too....

Well ... there is no more classes for the kids right now... but that doesn't mean that there are no more classes for the kids right now.... at home. 

This past Saturday Matthew says to me "Dad... I want a girl friend" ... I was a bit shocked.  Specially since a week prior he had said how he never wanted to get married.  Or grow older... because adults have to do boring work... and that was no fun.

A couple of days ago, Paola set up painting day for the kids.

These works of art are (like the previous) are on display at the High museum refrigerator of our Home.  For a limited engagment...   

Now Sophia on the other hand (ha ha no pun intended)... was isolated to the table.  Something about the paint disaster of 2005...

I had asked my son at one point if he wanted me to paint with him... but he had assured me that it would not look as good as his work so I should just sit and watch him.

...chores chores.  We all have to pitch in... or total caos...

But it is nice to see a smile while the kids do their part.  Here is Sophia taking out the trash with a big smile on her face.  Maybe she is just to young to realize that some work is not really fun at all.... 

... a blue and pink basket?  What exactly is a tisket.... or a tasket?  All I know is that my little girl tells me that you need two of them...

The smile says "happy happy ....." while the fact that she wont share the baskets says ""...mine mine...I am the princess..."  So lets say you are lucky enough (or sneaky) to get your hands on one of these coveted baskets.... what do you do with it?  I asked Sophia, but she did not seem to want to share the answer.  I guess my only option now is to find my own basket.

Enough of these sticky traps, and we start to train to kids to carry wipes with them... just in case.  Have you ever seen a lollipop stuck in someone's hair?  Not a pretty sight.

I have been to many parts of the world.  Seen a lot of things... one thing stands out.... there are crazy cab drivers everywhere.  I remember the last time I was in Argentina, and how common it was for the cab drivers to take short cuts through the sidewalks... and people would just jump out of the way... then go back to their regular lives... maybe an insult or two.

I guess you don't have to travel to the other side of the globe to see a crazy cab driver... in fact I think we have one right here.  They must be in an awful hurry..... I am just glad that I did not get run over....

I was thinking the other day, how lucky we were that someone had given us a play-set for the kids to play with.... one less thing to have to buy or worry about... because kids can get bored.  They need some time outside to play and climb and have fun.  They do seem to have fun with it...

But then I started thinking about how they climb all over the top of it... and Matthew jumps off of it.  ...Who am I kidding.... they have out grown this thing...    ....its only a matter of time before they start climbing our house.  Maybe I should look at getting something a little bigger.

So I started to notice that our kids are starting to copy some of our daily activities.... they watch... they mimic.  They wait for the perfect time to pull out the old "...but I saw you do it..." card.  Which, by the way is an excellent card.  It is usually trumped by the "...well when you are 5, then you can do that..."

....I think I will have to change that strategy soon ... now that Matthew is four! 

Well, lets get to it.... what was I talking about?  Oh yes, they copy us... Here we have morning Sophia going to check her emails just in case there is some important gossip that she needs to be made aware of.

She throws up that innocent smile, but I know she turned off the monitor so I would not catch her surfing inappropriate sites again.....

Well, after catching up on the old email, its time for a well balanced nutritious breakfast.

Makes you wonder why they don't just make a big food bucket so you don't have to use those tricky spoons..... After a nice breakfast... its jump on Daddy.... while smiling for the camera.

I guess the plan here is to weight me down so much that I have back issues and must stay home and play all day....  Not this time girls... Daddy loves you guys!

This past Wednesday it was Daddy Donut Day at the kids school.  A chance to enter the crazy world in which my kids walk every day.... while enjoying the occasional donut.

Part of this tour of duty revolved around the kids creating a work of art that they would give to daddy dearest.  Sophia's artwork was hard to capture since it mostly revolved around drooling and asking me to pick her up....

Matthew on the other hand was a little less than shy.  While we enjoyed our tasty snacks, Matthew was hard at work creating the next  'Rock Your World' master piece. 

When he was done, he sat back and let me soak in his genious!.... the use of colors... and shapes..... the deep placement of symbolism.... he had capture the essence of life in one single master piece... and he knew it. 

Megan seemed less than enthusiastic about the completed work.  She did not say anything mean... but nice girls never do.  She just kind of nodded but did not seem to truly be impressed. 

Megan's art work was a self portrait.  A self portrait of her hands..... very cute, and on the same page it says "I love to sing songs with my dad."  As nice is that is, I recall Megan mostly asking me to stop singing when she is, so that I can focus on just listening to her...

The works of art are currently under exhibit in the Kitchen Museum of Art.... for a limited time.  A must see for all true art connoisseur.

Sorry it took me so long to get these pictures out there.... I have been playing catch up since we got back.

Click on the picture to see the whole set... or go to Gallery section (on the right) to see those and others.

We had so much fun on this trip.  First of all, a special thanks to my parents and the Limey's for watching the kids...

We had a chance to take a historical tour of the main Island (Nassua)... we did some shopping... some snorkling... dinning... dancing... lounging... beach.... pool.... and drinky drinky....

I really do need a day or two to get back into 'work' mode...  

Oh were to start.... we are not even home yet.  Just using a little free wifi at the airport until our plane gets in.  Tons of fun... and there are also a bunch of pictures we want to share.  But that will take me some time to put it together.

But for now... here is the little tug boat we escaped on...

no wait.... this is the one.

Happy Cinco De Mayo!

Paola and I set on the cusp of freedom..... today we drop the kids off ... and prepare for a short little vacation.... KID FREE!!!  .... why is this important?  the time apart from our kids will help us to appreciate the time that we have with them....  Its like the old saying goes:  "...time makes the heart grow fonder..." ...or something like that.  Well ok, that just part of it... the other is we just want a break.  Paola finally has her green card... so we are not able to travel outside the U.S.  ... so we are going to go on a Cruise to the Bahamas.... 

I am sure this break will be good for us and the kids....

Most of us remember growing up with rules.

• You have to brush your teeth. 
• No playing at the table. 
• You have to eat your food before you can have dessert.
• You are not allowed to eat in that room because you will make a mess.

Anyone else remember any rules like this?  Year after year... these types of rules guided our lives... as we slowly grew up ... and learned to embrace them.

I now show you exhibit A:

The kids are with my parents for just a few hours... and all the rules fly out the window.  This picture shows you an obviously happy child, indulging in dessert.... Did she finish her meal? ... I don't think so.  What room is she in?  That does not look like the kitchen or dining room...

.... I guess I should have read the fine print:  "...once you become a grandparent, all rules are null and void...."

The secret growth hormones that we have been feeding Sophia are starting to work.  She is getting taller.  Taller every day.  Normally we would not have resorted to such drastic measures....

...but its for her own good.  How else will she be able to defend herself against her older brother and sister?  Next step... Ninja fighting techniques!!

Ah a cowgirl's work is never done.  Special today ... it was 'farm' day at the kids school.  They all got a chance to see the farm animals and learn a little bit about farm life. 

 Right away Sophia was put in charge of the animals because of her skills.  Well ok, it was because she had the cute hat. 

Once Sophia was in charge, it was all down hill for Matthew.  All those times Matthew had not let Sophia play with a toy were about to be paid back in full.  Matthew was put to work brushing the animals.

 Megan was a little luckier.  When ever Sohpia was not watching, Megan would slack.  Just stand there and look pretty... and enjoy the beautiful day. 

In the end it was not the kids that learned the most.... it was Paola, since she had to go to see these animals three times.... One for each of our kids class. 

Another master piece from Paola.  The second cake for the party was Matthew's cake.  It was a spiderman... very nice.  She made a bunch of cup cakes, and turned them into the brick wall.

Click, Click, Click on the cake to see more pictures from the party

Oh man that was a long day... Too long... and tiring.  Almost a week has passed and I am still tired. 

An interesting thing happens when kids get presents.... all form and reason goes out the window.  The day of the party was too fun packed to have any time to open presents... so the next morning (very early) the kids started their attack!

Have you ever noticed how different boys and girls are.... not just what they want, but the way they react.  ...And I guess it also changes the older they get.  Matthew was a wild man... a storm of shredding paper and tissue!  His dreams are filled with Spiderman, Superman, Power Rangers...etc...  While the parents appreciate the presents that were clothing related... Matthew seems less than enthusiastic about those.

On the other hand take Sophia's reaction.  She was a little more cool headed about it.  She examined her gifts... and played with her toys.  She even checked out her new outfits with a smile.  But then.... it was all about calling her girlfriend to chit chat about her big plans now that she was the big UNO!  Her celly was all blowing up! Ring Ring...

I am now starting to see that for ever year that my kids gain.... I gain four or five years.  At first it was subtle with only one kid.  But now with three kids, it is very apparent that at this rate, I will be dead before they hit their teens.  At  least it has been a good life...

....or basket.... Gently down the stream? ...theres sharks in them there waters... row for your lives!!  Can you see the fear in their eyes?  I hope that boat makes it to shore... supplies are running low...

Its not all shark chases and canabalism.... ok maybe not canabalism...  Well anyways, there comes a time when you have to stop ... and look cool for the camera.

Here we have making sporting her Nike ware.....
and her cool new Dora The Explorer shades....

Here we have Matthew sporting his Incredibles glasses
and his "Birthday Boy" hat made in class.

So this weekend is Matthew and Sophias birthday.  Matthew turns four and Sophia turns one.... and where there is a birthday ... there is cake.  But not just any cake... A couple of Paola's hand crafter master pieces...

This was one of the two cakes... there are a bunch of cool pictures... but we are still a bit wiped out.... maybe tomorrow will be a little more restful.

"Run Run ... As fast as you can... You can't catch me... I'm the Watermelon Girl!"

They are always happiest right before they fall.  And sometimes I think when they fall and cry... the parents hurt more than the kids.  Well I guess it really depends on who it is... 

Ah,... the season is upon us.  Wedding season that is.  Paola and I got invited to Brian and Jen's wedding.  It was all beautiful... and a lot of fun.

Click on the picture to check out the rest of the pictures.

 Once upon a time there was a great contest.... one with the ultimate prize!  The challenge was to build the perfect mess.  A mess that would have lasting effects for days to come...  The winner would wear the title "Mess Master"

And then came the challengers.  First was Matthew.  For over a year Matthew reined supreme in the world of messes that went unchallenged.  Such great messes like the toy room bombing of 2004 and the paint wars of 2005...

 Matthew starts of strong with with his tools and the sculpting.... Still, it is to early to tell who the judges will choose.

Next we have Megan the Destroyer.  Famous for breaking up Matthew's Lego creations... and ripping pages out of books.  Megan is a strong contender for the title.  Here she is making the perfect blends of mess and potions.  Obviously trying to to find the perfect explosive balance of ingredients.

 And last but not least we have Sophia.  She is new to the game and does not yet have a title.  Although she seems a bit inexperienced with the materials, she is a natural at making a mess.  Unfortunately she does not seem to be enjoying the taste of the mess...

So who will be named "Mess Master"?  ...still too early to tell....  and so many messes left to make.  I just hope we survive the tests! 

Well Mommy is back!  Paola had to go to New York on Saturday to get her passport renewed so she would have it for the immigration appointment on next Monday.  Any other Ecuadorian embassy would have FedExed it there ... so why not fly?

While Paola was out... I had some 'Quality' time with the kids....   ...It really is amazing how Paola does it.  She makes it look so simple.  I did have to work hard to keep my sanity.  The three kids are a handful.  On a couple of occasions, the kids were acting bad... and one or two of the got a spanking... and it was all ".... I wish Mommy was home!!" ... All I could think was "...me too"

Well Paola was able to get her renewal done without issue and was back on Monday night.  The weather is turning nice again, so that means more outside play time.

.....ah yes.... the old outdoor games.  Wait a minute... I never learned to play hopscotch when I was a kid... and I am pretty sure Sophia does not know how either??!?!?!  Oh well, if I did that I would get yelled at... but all Sophia has to do is smile.... I will have to ask the kids to teach me how to play sometime. 

Ah The Craft..... The Art.  They say a picture is worth a thousand words.  Have you ever wondered who 'they' are?  Well, more important than words is .. taste?  And by the looks of this one, I bet it would taste great.  I don't think that my wife will let me try it... She says it is for a special occasion..... hmmm  What is more special than hunger?

Maybe if I am good she will make me a cake someday....

The other day, the kids started to unite.  One a regular school day when we were running late as usual.... they decided to revolt!!  It normally starts out with a parent saying "...if you don't get ready ... you will have to stay home all by yourself!"

What happens that day that the kid decides that staying home would not be a bad idea?   ...and worse, what happens if that young little boy convinces the two sisters that revolution is the only answer?

What in the world is going on here? ...this was one of the pictures from the other day, and I can honestly say, "I have no idea what they are doing?"

Maybe some kind of competition?  Paola says she did not put them up to this... but I have my doubts...

We got a chance to see some old friends this past Wednesday.  ....my old friend from college (GA Tech).  Crazy old mike... we are both married now.... we both have kids now (his second is on the way).   [Click on the picture to see more photos]

...my wife asked me... "why did you pic that picture?"  .... she did not like it at all.  I on the other hand like the chaos.  Everyone is moving around.... Megan is about to slide...  Audry has finished her run.  Parents are arguing about who's kid is craziest... Matthew is fighting the dark forces that have come to destroy the playground!!

I had a nice long chat with Sophia today.  She was pushing her new agenda today.  Something about needing more snack times and keeping her brother away during her meditation hour.

At first I thought I had won the negotiations, and was not really giving into any of her demands.  I mean really.... she wanted a Hershey's kiss every hour on the hour.  But then she pulled out a wild card.  Apparently she had some compromising photos of me in a chicken suit.  And she threaten to start her own blog and post those pictures.... so I had to give into her demands....

She may have won this round.... but she has not won the war.  I will prevail in the long run!!

Ah ... finally home from Vegas.... and getting a chance to catch up on some pictures.  At last count (Today) Paola's picture collection has climbed to 17,869!!

"OK ... which one of you made this mess?"

"...if I can clear this... I can do anything!"

"Hello... Police, can you arrest my Brother?  He is picking on me..."

"...I bet I can sell this on eBay for a sweet mint..."

"...quick Sophia ... pretend like we are good little girls..."

Hey everyone... I know there are a few blog post missing.  My websited was hacked. 

I was able to put back a copy I had from last week, but wont be able to put the missing ones in until I get home on monday.... (I am out of town in Vegas)

....there sure are some mean people in this world with too much free time on their hands...

They say its as much fun as watching grass grow.  I have tried that... and it was not very fun at all.  "Is it growing yet?  Is it growing?  I think it needs more water...."

New and entertainment things.... a new project, growing  a little plant.  But I think for than the plant, I think this might teach them to work on their patience.  And maybe after they learn that lesson ... maybe they can teach it to me.

In the war to control the 'Dad' ...there is only one loser ... and that loser is me.  When the girls smile they pretty much get their way.  I try to be strong, but sometimes I just can not discipline this cute bundles of destruction.

Look at that smile.... there is no hope for me.  Sophia is now walking all the time... with the occasional fall ... bump head.... cry.  But I guess that is just part of life.

Oh relaxing days.  Nothing like kicking back and enjoying a nice video games without your little sisters around. 

Obviously Matthews game did not go as he had hoped.  I am sure this has happened to all of us.  But then a bad thing happend.... he took his anger out on his sister Megan.  And like any good little girl, Megan ran off....

ran off to hide?  I don't think so.... more like ran off to get a weapon.  Only the adult supervision from a level headed parent could stop this from escelating.... and as you can guess, thats not me.

...but not to worry.  When I got home this day.... all the kids were still alive and unharmed (mostly)

I was able to put back a copy I had from last week, but wont be able to put the missing ones in until I get home on monday.... (I am out of town in Vegas)

....there sure are some mean people in this world with too much free time on their hands...

There has been a lot of flu and colds floating around lately.... we had some sickness visit our house.... and we all had a rough time with all the coughing and sneezing.  So, after a few days, we had to call in the big guns!

Full of wisdom from years of practice.... Dr. Sophia comes to our rescue with the proper prescription.  She gave us a couple of shots and told us we just needed to get some rest and eat some candy....  Time heals all wounds..... mostly.

In the Lego wars... there can be only one victor.  Only one that rules supreme... The battles are fierce and long... and the rules are dirty.

If you wonder by during one of the raging battles... be careful not to get too close.  A stray Lego may take you out!  But like all great wars... in the end, there are no winners.

On a sweeter note... in the battle in the kitchen, there are no more battles.  There is only one victor... one supreme ruler.  That's right....

....and that winner is not me.  This picture would not look so sweet if it had come from my hands.... Paola's skill keeps getting better... and her sweets keep getting more tempting.

At first when I saw this picture.... I was thinking that Matthew and Megan were trying to help Paola make something... but I just can't figure out what.

I did not see any cake with icing appear after this.... or any moldings.... So I am still a little confused.... I am scared to ask in case it went horribly wrong... 

Some things are best left alone....

So I have been sick for a few days.... so have most of us (and our visiting family)...

I was not able to work today .... or most of this week for that matter... so I thought about sending in my backup.

Time and time again, Briam II puts on my shoes and proves a successful replacement.  More proficient than myself in many of my daily tasks, Briam II is the perfect substitute for when I am feeling under the weather.  I did sleep for 18 hours so I am feeling much better....

Just ran into this picture from a new years part we had in Florida at the beginning of the year.

They all so cute... ready to party in the new year.

We just got back from Florida earlier today... and no sleep.... so so tired.  We did manage to pick up some company for the return trip..

We got a chance to see Paola's brother Xavier and Lucy while we were down there for a few days.  We were able to kidnapped all of them but Xavier... something about having to get back to business.

It is apparent by this picutre who runs the show at home....Good night... time for some sleepy time.  But don't let that serious look fool you....she is ticklish just like all the others...

I just got a picture from my mom (Liliana).  It is a picture of my niece (Liliana).  Its a cute picture of baby Liliana eating some cereal.... that it looks like she was not supposed to get in to.  Due to some legal restrictions I am not really allowed to use the name of the brand of cereal without proper permissions...but I will give you a hint...

I must also state that this brand is a registered trademark of General Mills, Inc.   With that said, here is the incriminating copyright infringing photo.  Of course it has been edited so as not to show the product logo.

I thought that I was the clever one when I was a kid.... I always had a good excuse for why it was not time to sleep yet.... "...im too hot..."  "...im thirsty..."  "... i need to go to the bathroom..."   "....the room is on fire...and I need to watch tv..."

...here's one I did not have in my bag of tricks... "...how can I possibly go to sleep without another good night kiss.... "  

Sandy places call for sandy playgrounds....

...and Sandy friends.... We met another little girl who's name was also Megan only a little older (4 years old). 

After a few hours of sandy play... it was time to wash that sand down with some ice cream.

...when it was all gone, Matthew tried to convince me that that his ice cream was not really that good, and that he needed another one that would be better.  ...he almost convinced me.

"Briam.... are you dead.... you aren't updating your blog..."

Gee... thanks.  Yes I am alive... just working a bit much lately... and going out too much also.  But that is our rock-star lives... haha.

So, Still catching up... this up coming week, we are going back down to Miami, like we did for new years.  Some of our family is in town an we are going to go kidnap them and bring them back.

Here was a dinner we had when we were down there...  Enrique and Viviana let us stay with them ... (Thanks!!) ... and with the kids!! (Double Thanks!!)

Like that rare photo of the abominable snowman, so have we been able to capture a rare photo of the jolly guy himself.  No not the jolly green giant.  Santa Clause.... yes ... on Christmas eve, we were able to capture a quick picture of Santa with the Santa Cam....

He had snuck in through the glass plated chimney.... sneaky little guy.  He completely circumvented the bear trap and electric snare that we had put there to capture him..... oh well... maybe next year.  We will meet again chubby boy!!

I know I still have not caught up on all the Christmas goodness.  And tonight is no different.  Just some tidbits to tide you guys over until I have more time....

For example, did you know that little kids like receiving a severed head in a box? 

So Megan had some great plans for painting the face... combing the hear...etc.  Matthew on the other hand had some crazy ideas involving sharp knives and prisoner demands.

This last Christmas we did try to focus on the real reason for Christmas... but all the kids heard was... only one present to each person!!  We are still talking with their lawyers to dismiss the child abuse accusations.

...some did break the "One Present" rule this Christmas, and we are looking at next Christmas, breaking into their homes and putting stuff back.

I, on the other hand, received blackmail as a gift.  I know have a monthly payment to an unnamed gift giver.... in order to keep my sorted secrets properly tucked away in the closet.

....thats all I got for tonight.  Soak it in... and reflect.  And keep your "secrets" closet locked up tight!!

....when you get a little lost in the technology....

I don't blame Tommy for asking these guys for a little help... I do the same thing from time to time...

You think I would be caught up by now.... or you know me... and you knew I would not be caught up by now...

Don't worry ... Sophia did not mind getting rid of the hat.  But if you look carefully, you will notice that Megan has some protesting remarks to share....

These pics are a little closer to Christmas... which means that my brother (wife and daughter) were in town.  Maybe it was the stubborn streak in the family... but harsh words soon broke out into some crazy kung fu action!!  ...hopefully time will heal these wounds.

....and then it happened.  As rare as a solar system alignment of all the planets!!!....  East meets West..... (they live in California....)  Ha Ha .. I kill myself.

Liliana and Sophia.... as different as night and day....  They both seemed very serious to see each other.  More of a curiosity really.  they share half the blood line... and look so different.  But both very cute.

Maybe a new Christmas tradition in the works.  You pick the youngest member of the family.  Then you find a funny hat and make them wear it while you take a picture.

Well, I don't know.  Sometimes I see these pictures and I kind of have an idea what happened before I got home from work.  But sometimes.... I just have no idea....  I keep thinking one day it will be a picture of me asleep.... with some silly hat on.

Here was a cute picture form the kids Christmas party before the holidays...

Its hard to get these kids to stay putt in one place... but here it is.

Paola and I can not have any more kids.  It is true.  Some think it is a matter of money.... or space in the house.  Some even point to the fact that I got a vasectomy.   But the real reason that I can't have any more kids is even simpler....

...its just a matter of logistics.  I don't have any more arms.  I can't carry any more kids.  So its settled.  This is the right amount of children.

The holidays brings out the good in most people.  But in some ... it also brings out some bad..... bad hidden secrets that can't stay hidden for too long.  Like poor innocent Sophia... so full of life and hope... and possibilities.... Just to find out that she has a drinking problem...

....the shame.  Hopefully we have caught it in time, and will be able to get her some counseling.

Before there was Christmas... there was happiness in the expectations of Christmas!!

...these kids always seem to be full of questions.... even with out Christmas... So we got our learn on... and actually read a Christmas book with out the jolly red suited guy.

We just got back today from Florida... and I know I have not put anything up here since before Christmas... but there was no time.  I will get a chance to catch up now that we are back.

They look so cute and innocent.... no not the kids... the snow men.  Paola loves them... and I think they are up to no good.  I have seen them whispering things to the kids... asking them to break things... and eat candy.... I am sure the kids would not be doing these things if someone was not putting them up to it....

Sophia is still safe from their influence... today she was saying "Mama... and Mami..." .... she no longer seems to have any interest in saying "Papa".  I must remember that... and deduct it from her allowance when she is older.

She is still not walking ... but that that is ok...that gives us more time.  So we can catch our breath.  My brother and Sister (should be) are in town!!  My dad and brother came by for a quick visit.  We hope to see them some more during these holidays.  Yeay!!

There are a lot of happy good stories during Christmas..... but no one speaks about the dark side.... about the evil Snowman Monster that terrorizes the countryside.

Like capturing a rare photo of the Lockness monster... or the abominable snowman (if you will).... so is this photo ultra rare....  I have a few calls into a couple of newspapers to see who will pay the most for this rare rare photo.... Sadly enough the other person in the photo was completely destroyed by this monster.... and I was powerless to help... but do you blame me.  Look how intimidating this monster is!!!

... and unlike the storey.... you could hear all the creatures (kids) stirring...  and with stirring comes of course, Christmas pictures....

You will notice that the tree has no presents under it..... thats for the safety of the boxes... they would surely be destroyed instantly... [Sooooo tired... more to come]

One game that all kids seem to love... and never get tired of... is "knock down daddy and beat him up...."

It does not seem to matter how old.... or young.  They seem to love this game..... basically they push on me... and I fall over... then they jump on me until I cry....  Matthew still loves this game.... and so do the girls..... 

I just hope they are not still playing this game when they turn 18!

Its not all parties and travel being a super rock star baby.  Deep down past all the glimmer and stars.... there is a normal baby.

Here is Sophia's assistant (Megan) helping during the morning wake up routine.

Short of bringing in the morning paper, Megan helps by yelling "WAKE UP SOPHIA"... and still our rock star baby is able to keep a smile for the camera crew.

Here we have Sophia brushing the four teeth that she currently has... I think a few more are starting to poke their way out.

...I guess that is just about it.  After that its all parties and travel.  We will have to work on her party habits... she is starting to show bags under her eyes from little sleep.... no wait... the bags are mine. 

Skill.... Thy name be PAOLA!  Getting better every time.  Its amazing how wonderful these cakes are becoming.... almost life like.

....I have seen some of the stuff that Paola aspires to create... and she is getting closer.  The best part about it is the smile that she gets when it is completed..... she almost does not want us to devour it... since it is destroying her work of art. 

Beware!!  There is a new street gang in town.... well ... not so much a "street" gang ....more like a kitchen gang.....

.....you better not be carrying change ... or candy.  They will take you down!!  You have been warned!

In our house there is a law of physics that can not be broken.  For every Girl in Pj's there is an equal and opposite Boy in Pj's...

Behold ... Matthew in his sleepiness...!!

....too late.  Time to get some sleep.  Too tired for words?  We just got home from a long long weekend.  But tons of fun!

....this was last week... "I can't sleep... I need some chocolate milk..." Isn't that always the case?

...and this is another picture of the kids in pajamas... and not wanting to go to bed....  I guess they feel that they might miss something.  Now sleepy time calls...

...What truly makes the world go round?  ....passion for our work... or loving someone.... or being loved.  Oh so close!  I think I have found the perfect formula.... unfortunately the formula is only good for one day.... and as it happens, it was Megan's day..... Not really on the day of her birthday ... but the day the family could get together and celebrate.... this was over a week ago... but I have been busy/lazy.

INGREDIENT ONE:  For the perfect day: CLOWNS!!  I know that some people fear clowns... and it freaks them out.... (Emi?)

Paola got a chance to show of some of her new found skill and put together these darling little (no fear causing) clowns.  The irony here is that they are supposed to make you laugh or smile, but they you are expected to pop their heads of and eat their bodies?  I don't think I will ever understand that part of it.

INGREDIENT TWO:  For the perfect day: A Monkey!!  Well, since we could not get a permit to keep a monkey in the house, we had to do the next best thing.

Some kids, when you ask them "What sound does a monkey make?" all they do is make the sound.  But not my little girl.  That question alone triggers a transformation that turns this sweet little girl into a crazed wild monkey!  But no one has gotten hurt, so we have not felt the need to lock her away.

 INGREDIENT THREE:  For the perfect day: Cake!!  Not just any store bought cake.  It must be lovingly hand crafted by the "Mom".  No other substetute allowed.  It would make the formula not work properly.

...down to the smallest piece of icing and flowers... made with love. 

....and what is the result of this?  THE PERFECT DAY!!!

A loving family.... and blessing we don't deserve... Thank God that the day did not pass without us appreciating it..... like many we do.

I have this cute picture of Megan .... playing with Play-dough... as if she were going to cook something.

Maybe she will grow up like Paola and love to cook... or maybe she just likes to squash things....  At least she has not asked me to try anything she has made.... but I am sure that will come in time.  As for Sophia... I think she is currently working on being an animal trainer.

Although that can be a dangerous profession, especially with Lions, I am sure that once you command their respect, it is not too bad.  Be careful Sophia!

I did promise a couple of times that I would get the pictures out there... and it took me awhile... but I finally did it!

It was a fun party, but the part I enjoyed (I don't know why....) was putting the number 2 candle on Paola's cake...   ...she did not seem to want to destroy the mater piece.

The pictures are all here in the Gallery.

The temperature is dropping.... and the mittens and hats are coming on.  It is getting cold... and might actually start feeling like winter soon.  Good thing too... because we are in December.

I am hoping that this picture will distract you from the fact that I don't yet have Megan's birthday photos out there already....   ...soon ... I promise.

Last weekend we had a blow out party for Megan's birthday party.  I have not yet gotten a chance to put all the pictures together... but I promise.  Soon.  But here is a picture of the Dora cake that Paola made.  She made the cake and decorated it... and all the little cup cakes... very delicious!!

Paola and I are the perfect match.  She has the skill for making these beautiful works of food... and I have the skill of eating these beautiful works of food...   I will get more pictures of the party together soon... I promise.

I am the recovering turkey.  Man, I am tired.  Well turkey day went nicely.  Too much food... too much eating....then there was some gorging.. and then we eat some desert.  But lets not forget we also sang a little happy birthday to Megan who turned the big 2! 

Here is mom and daughter sharing a nice moment.  Paola made the cake... design and all.  Very nice.  And if you ask Megan how old she is, like all women, she will lie about her age and tell you that she is only one.

I think I can ... I think I can.... I think I can.  Ever ask yourself "think I can what?"  Where is this train going?

Well just look at this train.... It has disaster written all over it.  For starters, look at the conductor at the front.  The conductor does not look like she is old enough to drive a car... let alone a high powered locomotive!

But that is not my biggest concern.  It looks like there might be a passenger that did not purchase a legitimate ticket.... if you look closely at the passenger in the last car... you will see the shifty big eyes of innocence... but don't be fooled.  I would not be surprised if this passenger was carrying explosives in her backpack.... no good can come from this.

So a long long time ago, the pilgrims came to this country.  They had a rough time, but like most of us, when we have a hard time, it helps to take everything away from those that try to help us.  So the pilgrims took everything from the Indians, and that is why we now have Thanksgiving day.

Well.... so maybe that's not the whole story, but the important thing here is that I went to my kids Thanksgiving lunch last week.  And they were the Indians.  (some of the other kids got to be pilgrims)

You would think this picture was of an Indian making that noise (that they always make in the movies) but it is her covering her mouth because she just burped.

I did take some pictures... but they are hidden away in the Gallery section.  But if you are nice to me I will give you a quick link to them.  Well, here is a link anyways:  Thanksgiving

 And lets not forget that Megan also turns 2 TODAY!!!!

You think that you spend most of your time watching the kids.  Making sure that they don't hurt themselves.... or each other.  But every now and then.... when you are looking at them, they stop everything they are doing and look right back at you.

Its really a bit disturbing.... since normally you think of the kids as the ones that are being observed.  But don't forget for one moment that they see and hear everything you do.  Only time wil tell what their master plan is.... I am sure it has everything to do with world domination...

OK, so today was Megan's birthday party.  And we have a ton of pictures of the fun and cool stuff that went on today.  Oh the fun we had.

...but I don't have those pictures ready yet... so you will have to suffer through the Hairy Feet!!!

That's right you heard me.  The other day, my son had asked me why my feet are so hairy.... and I had not really given it much thought.  I had to buy some winter slippers, as my last had been destroyed by a bizarre mustard GI Joe accident... (I'll tell you later...)

So, what did I buy, but some giant black hairy bear feet.

....I thought I would use them as a form of punishment.  "Don't be bad or the bear feet will get you..."  But like all good plans that I execute... it failed.  What has it turned in to now?  A game.  "Dad, can we please play Attack of the Bear feet?"

I will have to come up with something more intimidating... maybe a belt or something... let me know if you have any good ideas.

...tomorrow is Megan's birthday party.... will the world be ready for what is ahead?  Most likely not.

 

Look at this face.  Only a matter of time before she rules the world.

The came form all sides... like rain falling from the sky.  They jumped and croaked all over the place.....

...ok ...maybe not from all sides...... and not like rain.....

...ok ...maybe not jumping .... and not much croaking either....

...well fine.  It was one frog.... and he was just trying to get away from us.  Matthew was very excited to see this little jumper.  It was almost the size of my hand.... I have not seen a frog that large in a long time.

...meanwhile... Megan slept.  Not a normal restful, glad I am sleeping nap... but more like a "if you wake me up I will kill you" nap.  Sound familiar.... she is so grouchy when she gets up...

....normally the only thing that cheers her up is candy..... or time... maybe she will grow out of it?  (I wish....)

Yes, I am ok... no need to worry about me losing my toe... or my foot.... or leg.  Sure sure... lets get to the more interesting part.

Sophia is now standing herself up on things.  She has been pulling herself up on stuff for the last couple of days.  And so starts the count down clock.  Soon she will be walking... then running.... and from there it is a short jump away from destroying the place.  I think that is the only thing that Matthew and Megan are waiting for..... because then there will be three of them... and they will out number the adults.

I apologize for this horrible disgusting picture... but the truth must come out.  I think I broke my toe.... or just very badly bruised it up... top and bottom.... I did swell up a bit... and hurts if you look at it funny...

So here is what happened:   Matthews troops had already beached my Lego defenses.  He was heading straight for my power grid.  I had sent my to monsters to stop him... but to no avail.  So I did the only thing that I could do.  I grabbed the power core and jumped over the wall (the couch).... unfortunately for me... my cat like prowess were not at its sharpest.  My pinky toe caught the couch top corner on my way down the back side... and my toe did this 90 degree salute thing.... a bit disturbing.

I of course was laughing from the pain and unable to speak coherently.... right about then ... Matthew comes around the corner and pellets me with a barrage of missiles... and then jumps on top of me... thinking we were still playing.  When in reality we were not playing... I was merely laughing to keep back the tears of pain.

[A couple of days have passed .... and the toe is doing better... I still have a slight limp]

...We took the kids to go see "Disney on Ice" today... it was a lot of fun and the kids enjoyed it a lot.  It wears you out traveling around with three kids.... I don't see how my wife does it all the time... well I guess today she went around with four kids... (me).  Well after a long day of seeing the Incredibles (on ice) save Mikey and Minnie (on ice) .. we build up a big appetite (not on ice)...

We went out for some food to a wings place, and Sophia got a chance to sit in a kids chair (for the first time).... she even ordered up a nice little Daiquiri...and spicy buffalo wings.  Party on!

Sophia is on the move.  No more dragging her body around like a corpse from the "Land of the Dead".  She is now starting to crawl like an old pro.

....she is really developing her leg strength quickly.... she likes to stand up while holding on to stuff.  I don't know if she will be walking as fast as Matthew did (7 months) ... but she sure is giving it a try...

Last night Paola and I got a chance to go see Luis Miguel in concert.  It was a lot of fun... more than I thought... specially since I am not that up on my Spanish music collection.

We were able to find a friend to watch our kids.... ALL OF THEM!!  ...and that was our chance to escape to the concert!  Luis puts on a great show.... a very good stage presence.  I might have to listen to my wife more on outing... 

Our church collects coins from the kids and their families.  Its a program that used to be called pennies for Peru.  But since then the program has grown and helps a lot of children in a lot of different countries.  They take turns.  The church feeds hundreds of kids breakfast every Sunday.

Well today, Matthew was asked to give the prayer after the coins were collected.  He was a bit nervous, but he did great.  Actually he is a bit of a ham... and he loved the attention.

....after the prayer... he was so please that everyone liked it, that he wanted to do it again.... So, I am not sure if he realized the whole purpose of it... but at least I know it motivates the program.

Yes, there are no pictures of Matthew today.... why?  Because this was the day that the aliens abducted him for some follow up research.  That is the only reason I can think of why Matthew was not in any of these pictures.

So, Megan got an invite from her little friend, Mikaela, to go the "Little Gym"  I hear it was a lot of fun.... It's a chance for the little girls to prepare to beat their future husbands into submission.

A carefully design program aimed at teaching young girls how to quickly immobilize any male opponent.

... I did not get a chance to go... due to that pesky thing called "work" ... but when I got home I did get a chance to feel the wrath of the training from our little angel Megan.

Little Sophia is not ready to start her male bashing training, so she was happy to be at home and play with daddy.  She is crawling a lot more... and loves to stand up.  I guess its only a matter of time before she runs faster than me... (like a week or two).

....Oh these sweet kids.  They look so innocent and peaceful.... but don't let that fool you.... you turn your back on them, and its "Get Him!!" and they will pounce on you like and old squeeze toy.

...sometimes.... all you want to do ... is eat a donut.

...that being said... I am going to get something to eat...

Today, the kids had a dress up party at their school.  So very close to Halloween, how could you not?  Here is a picture before things went crazy.

In case you did not know... Megan is a princess... and Matthew is spider-man (but don't tell the bad guys... that would rune his whole gig).  Because after a long day of saving peoples lives and defeating the evil doers of Atlanta..... you would think there would be time to take a nap...

Matthew is only three ...hehehe... but this one will be great to black mail him when he turns 15!!  I just hope he saves up enough allowance to pay me off.

Ah to be young... and to have to do every little thing that your parents tell you to.  You know how in prison, if you break the rules, you are given some terrible work to do.... or when you are newest at a job.. .they give you all the bad chores.

Well, life at our house is a lot like that.  (at least for the kids) 

Here we see worker Matthew.... doing his assigned chores.  I wonder what he did?  Maybe he would not share a toy with his sister?  Maybe he robbed a bank?  It is hard to tell in these situations, and sometimes it is best not to ask (in case it is a violent crime).

But he does not seem to complain.  He is just doing his time.  Waiting for the chance to move on to something else... or maybe for a chance to escape.  This would not be the first time.  So, what do you do about the ones that try to escape the "work"?

Thats when you have to put someone in place to oversee that no one is slacking on the work.... and that no one escapes.  Here we have Megan over seeing the work and making sure that it is getting done properly.  If any attemp by a prisoner is made, it will quickly be followed by a "MOM ... MATTHEW ISNT HELPING ANY MORE!!!"

Yesterday after church we got a chance to go bowling with the kids.  We met up with some friends from the 99x forum site FT.

It was a ton of fun.  The kids all got to bowl ... except for Sophia.  She refused to play since there were no balls that matched her outfit.

I added a gallery with pictures (as if you could escape without seeing them)  So click HERE to see more.

Here is princess Megan this past Sunday.  All decked out in here princess dress.   And of course what outfit would be complete without the matching bow.  That's right... the pink bow on top.

 

The Bow ..... That Bow kept falling off.... almost too many times to count.  At first its like "oh well" and you put it back on .... after six or seven times you start to wonder why you would even keep that bow around.  Maybe you could just put it away and stop using it.  But no, "The Matching Bow" has power over the Mom.  And the Mom has power over the Dad.  ....so the battle went on all day... "Where is the bow?"  oh ... it fell again.  Put it back on. 

The last thing my wife told me that night was, "Hey ... where did you leave the Bow?  You didn't loss it did you?" ....no ... we still have the Bow.. and I can't wait until we have to use it again...  :-(

I don't say it enough and I really should, but we would all be lost without the love and guidance from Paola.  I don't know how she puts up with all of us and continues to keep a great positive outlook on life. 

 

We got a chance to get away for a bit on Saturday morning from some brunch and a walk at Piedmont park.  Very beaustiful day ... with my beautiful wife.

....The kids and I were able to scrape together our allowances and buy Paola some roses.... just because she is so wonderful!

So, I get home to find that Matthew learned something new in class.  Today they showed Matthew how to make fun of people with big ears.

Well, that's the only thing I can think of for making him wear the big ear hat.  Is this some cruel way of preparing the kids for entering the harsh cruel world?

I guess it could be worse.... they could have done the nose too.  And of course, as you can tell, his sister is very heart broken with her brother being tortured in this way.

Have you noticed the inordinate amount of times I have taken pictures of my kids cooking.  Or my wife showing my kids how to make stuff...... cookies.... muffins.... bread... you name it.

.......is my wife raising some baking army?  Is she preparing them for some master cooking plan?  I could understand if they were creating some form of giant cookie house to lure children to their doom... but they are not yet, maybe they are still in training.   ...I will have to keep an eye on them.... just in case.