The Cervantez Family

Let's Play Catch Up

2011-12-02T07:43:00.001-08:00

Alzheimer's Walk Oct 9 -Eugene, OR

2011-10-03T22:30:00.001-07:00

My family will be walking this weekend in memory of my grandmother who passed away in April due to complications associated with Alzheimer's. Alzheimer's is a terrible disease that robs you of your loved ones. Please help my family by donating to our team to find an end to this disease. Anything helps even $1!

Alzheimer's Association

Week 5 Weigh In

2011-10-03T22:13:00.000-07:00

Week 5 down! Much better week than than last week!

Down 2.2 lbs! Total Loss = 9.6 lbs

Highlight of the week. -
A few months ago all my pants were fitting to tight. So what is a girl to do.
Go to your husbands drawer and pull out a basically brand new pair of his pants, because he insists on only wearing three pairs of pants. The ones with a few holes, the ones with that one hole and the ones with a lot of holes for work. Side Note: what happened to the man I fell in love with that wouldn't even leave his house until he spent two (yes almost 2) hours applying gel to his hair and getting all the wrinkles out of his shirt?
I pull his jeans up and oh what's this I can't get them past my thighs! Oh my god....My husband wears smaller pants than me! I was so upset I actually started crying. That was my breaking point. I knew I had to do something I knew I had to get back into shape, because even if Danny wasn't saying it to me I am sure he was asking himself "Where did that girl with the size 4 waist go that I married." Granted if he said it to me 1. he would have a black eye and 2. I would point to Thing 1 and Thing 2 (affection little nicknames I just gave my girls). But I know that in some ways just like Danny I have started to let go of myself a bit.
When I think of where that could lead (not talking physical looks here) its scary. Diabetes (or as Misty refers to it "the sugar") runs in my family. It was a main cause of a lot my grandma's health problems and I couldn't imagine having to live with that disease.
So here I am this week. 7.4 lbs litghter and I noticed my pants were really starting to feel baggy. So I have no smaller pants and money is tight because it's a big birthday month so no new jeans for me. What to do? Go to your husbands drawer. Now when I opened the drawer I felt that pain of pulling those jeans up and them sticking at my thighs. I almost shut the drawer right there for fear that I would lose my mind if I put these on. Would all my hardwork pay off (to wear his jeans?!?!)? So I took out a simple cute pair (yes Danny has cute jeans) and pulled them on. No effort was needed they pulled right on. I AM SO HAPPY I CAN WEAR MY HUSBAND'S PANTS! And tried on pants at the store to hint to my mom what she can buy me for my birthday and I now am back down to a size 8. Coming from 6 months ago when I was in a 14. I am pretty happy about this victory.

Weigh In Week 4 (and Week 3...oops)

2011-09-26T21:22:00.001-07:00

The past two weeks were semi crazy around our home. Danny went to Denver for a work conference and I played single mommy that whole week. It was easier when it was just Bekah, but when I am out numbered for a whole week I tend to slack on everything....house work (had 3 laundry baskets full of clothes to fold and put away), cooking (we ate a lot of sandwiches), and ummm parenting (I think Bekah got away with WAY to much). But Week 3 for Weight Watchers I totally ROCKED! I lost 1.8lbs for a Total Loss of 7.4 lbs which was 5% of my starting weight!

Then there was THIS week. Oh week 4 please be my worst week! After getting back home on a Friday night Danny had 1 day off and then began a week of GRAVEYARD shift. I again was single mommy. (Props to all you single moms, I don't know how you do it!) I was able to get the laundry put away on Danny's day off and gave the house a good cleaning, however today I did 3 loads of laundry. Slacked on laundry, dishes, dusting, and opps exercising. I didn't walk all week. And after a girls night (where I wasn't planning on drinking too much) I couldn't make it to Zumba. At least I did good on the eating (well except those triple double Oreos). So needless to say there was no loss this week. Bright side NO GAIN!! So I am still at a Total Loss of 7.4lbs

Here is to this week!

Pintrest

2011-09-25T17:31:00.000-07:00

Oh Pintrest, what did I ever do without you. Oh yea I was forced to try really hard to be crafty.

I can't wait to start working on different projects.

Weigh in

2011-09-14T14:25:00.001-07:00

Week 2 of Weight Watchers - Down 1.8lbs Total 5 lbs!

Punkin Seed Year 2 Starts

2011-09-14T14:24:00.000-07:00

Time to Shape Up

2011-09-10T11:41:00.000-07:00

Back in March I had started weight watchers to lose the 30 + lbs I gained during my pregnancy. I was doing the online program and was very successful between WW and breastfeeding. Then the world was tipped upside down on me. 2 months of fast food and hospital cafeterias was havoc on my success. I didn't track anything I ate, and I went back to every bad eating habit I had. Granted I was able to still lose about 15 lbs. but I stopped the WW and I was slowly beginning to gain back. Not only that I felt horrible. I was always tired and just blah. I finally decided I have to do something about this!

1st Step - Restart WW

But instead of just doing online and going it alone. I decided to do meetings. Meetings give you an accountability. I will weigh in every week (only in my second week). And attend the meetings when I can (Danny's schedule is crazy the next few weeks) but I will work around it.

2nd Step- Cleaned out the Fridge, Freezer and Pantries.

I went through and threw out anything that wasn't something I should be eating. Because of Bekah yes there are some goodies still in the pantry (like gushers) but she is starting to snack like I am. And because I cook Danny is eating what I eat.

3rd Step- GET MOVING

Twice a week Bekah goes to school. So twice a week I will be walking. I will slowly work into jogging and then eventually start running!

4th Step- Go to the Chiropractor

9 years ago I had a drill dropped on my head from 11 ft above me. LONG STORY.... I have had migraines ever since and neck pain. After having MRI's and being on migraine medicines for years, even going as far as having braces because they thought it could be TMJ, I decided to go see a chiropractor! THANK GOD I DID. I finally have an answer!!! My neck is as straight as an arrow (it is supposed to have a curve) After having an adjustment yesterday and muscle relaxing therapy I feel like a whole new person!!!! Going again 2x per week for the next 4 weeks and then once a week til December.

5th-Step - ZUMBA

I built up the confidence to go join a Zumba class. Saturday mornings Danny will have daddy time for 1 hour while I go do Zumba! I went to the first class today and LOVED it. I highly recommend it for anyone that hates workouts.

WW week 1 - Down 3.8lbs. 1st goal is 7lbs

Scentsy

2011-07-16T18:26:00.000-07:00

I am now selling Scentsy!!! Contact me for all your Scentsy needs!!!
http://mandycervantez.scentsy.us

Back to Blogging

2011-06-02T23:01:00.000-07:00

One of my New Years resolutions this year was to actually start posting on this blog. I wanted to use it as a way to document the changes in our family with the addition of Annie. I was doing great up until April. I was even doing the 60 Day picture challenge. Here is a run down of the past two and a half months so you can understand why I haven't posted. I hope to start posting regularly as things become a new normal in our lives and I will also be restarting the 60 day challenge.

Lets begin back in March....
On Friday, March 25 my sister, Misty and I were going to go down to Grants Pass to spend the last weekend of spring break with her in laws. That morning we got a phone call that our grandpa had a small stroke and was at the hospital. He was in the hospital for 3 days and then transfered to a rehabilitation center. On April 5, my grandparents celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary. My grandpa was still in the rehab center and my grandma was at her assisted living facility. My grandmother was there because she had Alzheimer's disease.
We all thought things were heading up, grandpa was improving and he would be released soon.
The day after their anniversary April 6th my mom called, Grandma was having diabetic seizures and they couldn't control them, she was unable to take medication and they were going to take her to the hospital. She had an infection through out her body, the infection was causing a spike in her blood sugars. I was in with my grandma and my mom when the doctor told my mom that it was the end. My mom, my sister, my cousin Tony and I stayed at her bed side that night. We slept in shifts not letting grandma be alone. I actually left my 2 month old home with her daddy ALONE. But I needed to be with my grandma. On Friday April 8th with my sister by her side, my grandmother let go and went home to the lord. She was released from the 5 years that she lived in a prison of her own mind, finally she is able to remember all the loved ones around her.

One month to the day of my grandma's passing, my grandpa was taken back to the hospital. He spent 2 weeks in the hospital. The doctors treated him for lung damage and pneumonia. But you can't heal a broken heart.
On May 21st I received a phone call from the doctor at Corvallis Hospital. She said my grandpa didn't look good and she wasn't sure he would make it through the night. We rushed to be with him. My mom and walked in to find my grandpa sitting in bed with a smile on his face. I held his hand and cried. He looked at me and said "It's my choice." I knew what he meant. We spent Saturday with him, he was having delusions which got worse as the day progressed, he used my hand as a fishing reel more than once. Sunday morning my grandpa was gray, he was unable to communicate and we knew he was fading. I stayed all day Sunday by his bedside with my mom, my cousin and sister.
On Monday morning my grandfather was having more trouble breathing and his nurse said his breathing was a sign of "impending death". My cousin had went to get coffee, my sister was at my house with my daughters, and my mom had to run home. I was alone with my grandpa. I knew he wanted to let go. When my cousin walked out of the room my grandpa's breaths grew weaker. So I sat down and I talked. I talked to my grandpa. I told him what he meant to me, how much I loved him, what a wonderful job he had done on this earth. Then I told him what I think he needed to hear. I told my grandpa that grandma needed him more in heaven then we needed him here on earth. His job was done here. He had taught us all the lessons he could and he could go home. After a smile my grandpa took his last breath and went to be with his true love and the lord.

The loss of both my grandparents in 45 days has taken its toll on our family. Heartache doesn't describe the pain I feel from the loss. These were two of the greatest people I ever knew. My grandpa was my hero, he was the example of a father and husband for me growing up. My own dad isn't that great of one. (He would tell you that himself) My grandpa also had a special place for me, I was the twinkle in his eye.

We have laid my grandparents to rest side by side. I feel better knowing they are with each other, but I would give anything to have them both here with me.

2011-04-04T21:23:00.000-07:00

Two beautiful pics from the talented Jaime Hazen of http://jkpaperstudio.net/

2011-03-07T17:10:00.000-08:00

Day 6- A picture of someone who you'd love to trade places with for one day.

Because I wanna know what WINNING feels like.

60 Day Challenge Day 4 and 5

2011-03-06T22:50:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Bekah was sick and I was exhausted so I wasn't able to get to this. But here I am at 10:30 with the older daughter still up.... (can't sleep because of her coughing) and the youngest daughter fast asleep. Shouldn't I be in bed right now.

So here are the photos for Day 4 and 5

Day 4- A picture of your night

Well I really didn't wanna put a picture of puke up, that would be my night though. Taking care of these two girls, that was my eventful Saturday night.

Day 5- A picture of your favorite memory.

I have 3 favorite memories. I couldn't chose one photo. So I have 3!

June 3, 2006, the day I married my best friend.

October 21, 2006, The birth of my daughter Rebekah

And February 11, 2011, The birth of my daughter Analeah

60 Day Challenge- Day 3

2011-03-04T09:28:00.000-08:00

Day 3- A picture of the cast from your favorite show.

60 Day Challenge- Day 2

2011-03-03T15:04:00.000-08:00

Day 2- A picture of you and the person you have been close with for the longest.

60 Day Challenge- Day 1

2011-03-02T12:14:00.000-08:00

Day 1- A picture of yourself with fifteen facts.

15 Facts About Me
1. I have 2 beautiful little girls
2. I am a 4th degree black belt
3. I consider my big sister and my mom, my best friends
4. I have a wonderful husband, even if I don't always see it this way
5. When I was little I wanted to be a secret service agent
6. I have the worst vision in my family.
7. I used to consider my self short till I meet my husbands family. Now I am average.
8. I am addicted to reality tv. Especially Intervention.
9. I love to read in the bath tub, however the library doesn't like it when I drop the books in the water.
10. I hate water, and the dark.
11. I have 1 brother and 2 sisters biologically
12. I love cooking, but hate cleaning up after myself
13. I started a garden last year....so far all I can grow is weeds
14. When I was younger my sister told me I was the UPS man's. This is an ongoing joke in my family
15. I have some of the best friends a girl could ask for!

60 Day Challenge

2011-03-02T12:12:00.000-08:00

60 Day Challenge

Day 1 - A picture of yourself with fifteen facts.
Day 2 - A picture of you and the person you have been close with for the longest.
Day 3 - A picture of the cast from your favorite show.
Day 4 - A picture of your night.
Day 5 - A picture of your favorite memory.
Day 6 - A picture of a person you'd love to trade places with for a day.
Day 7 - A picture of your most treasured item.
Day 8 - A picture that makes you laugh.
Day 9 - A picture of the person who has gotten you through the most.
Day 10 - A picture of the person you do the most messed up things with.
Day 11 - A picture of something you hate.
Day 12 - A picture of something you love.
Day 13 - A picture of your favorite band or artist.
Day 14 - A picture of someone you could never imagine your life without.
Day 15 - A picture of something you want to do before you die.
Day 16 - A picture of someone who inspires you.
Day 17 - A picture of something that has made a huge impact on your life recently.
Day 18 - A picture of your biggest insecurity.
Day 19 - A picture of you when you were little.
Day 20 - A picture of somewhere you'd love to travel.
Day 21 - A picture of something you wish you could forget.
Day 22 - A picture of something you wish you were better at.
Day 23 - A picture of your favorite book.
Day 24 - A picture of something you wish you could change.
Day 25 - A picture of your day.
Day 26 - A picture of something that means a lot to you.
Day 27 - A picture of yourself and a family member.
Day 28 - A picture of something you're afraid of.
Day 29 - A picture that can always make you smile.
Day 30 - A picture of someone you miss
Day 31 - A picture of a tradition you have.
Day 32 - A picture of a crazy night.
Day 33 - A picture of the house you grew up in.
Day 34 - A picture of your currently most played CD.
Day 35 - A picture of your favorite place to eat.
Day 36 - A picture of your ‘other half'.
Day 37 - A picture of the people you spend most of your time with.
Day 38 - A picture of the best part of your day.
Day 39 - A picture of your favorite movie.
Day 40 - A picture of your favorite Disney character.
Day 41 - A picture of your pet.
Day 42 - A picture of your dream house.
Day 43 - A picture of something you can’t function without.
Day 44 - A picture of someone you’re told you look like.
Day 45 - A picture of your room.
Day 46 - A picture of where you wish you were right now.
Day 47 - A picture of your favorite place to shop.
Day 48 - A picture of your favorite actress/actor.
Day 49 - A picture of where you live.
Day 50 - A picture of your most frequented place.
Day 51 - A picture of your dream car.
Day 52 - A picture of your favorite sport.
Day 53 - A picture of someone you think is hot.
Day 54 - A picture of the one thing you would bring if you were stranded on a deserted island.
Day 55 - A picture of the last movie you saw in theaters.
Day 56 - A picture of something that makes you happy.
Day 57 - A picture of your favorite holiday.
Day 58 - A picture of your favorite animal.
Day 59 - A picture of a random item that you own.
Day 60 - A picture of something you’re excited about.

Analeah is Here!!!!

2011-02-13T16:15:00.000-08:00

Analeah Danielle arrived Friday, February 11, 2011 at 3:42 pm. She weighed in at 5 lbs. 15 oz. She was 19 inches long and a head full of black hair.

36 Weeks Down....Only 4 to Go!

2011-01-30T09:59:00.000-08:00

As of Thursday I was 36 weeks...Only 4 more weeks till my due date. Which means I am "this" close to having this baby girl in my arms and not in my tummy!

This last week, Bekah got sick. She ran a fever on and off for a few days and has had a terrible cough and runny nose. I am sure its just a cold, but Misty and Jonas both tested positive for strep throat this week. They visited us last week right before Bekah got sick. So today a visit to Bekah's pediatrician is on our to do list. I can't have a sick little one when I am about to have a very very little one coming home soon.

Since I am on my maternity leave I am starting to plan what I wanna do for valentines day for Bekah's class. I have found some cute ideas online. I just don't know how creative I feel right now. A visit to Micheal's is on my list this week as well.

Since I posted pictures of Annie's Room

2011-01-26T19:50:00.000-08:00

So since I posted pictures of Annie's room, Bekah asked that I post some pictures of her room and her too.
Here they are...

Bekah's Room from the door way

My little model

A pose on her bed

She really wanted me to post this one, because it has her pink cast in it

And With A Little Bit of Prepping....

2011-01-26T19:46:00.000-08:00

I decided to finally get some photos taken of all the little things (and big things) we have gotten done to prepare for Miss Analeah's arrival. She is due in 4 weeks, but with a lot of hoping, praying and some tricks from the OB nurse in our family she will be here in less than that.

Analeah's Room....It reminds me of neapolitan ice cream

Still need some wall decor, but I haven't gotten that far

My custom diaper bag I got from TweedleTotes on Esty.com
http://www.etsy.com/people/TweedleTotes?ref=pr_profile

These little shoes belonged to my grandma when she was a newborn.

Annie's new car seat, I can't wait to see her in this!!!

35 Weeks

2011-01-23T10:17:00.000-08:00

35 Weeks....Only 5 more weeks till my due date!

We are in the process of finishing up everything for the little one. Her car seats are bought. Her clothes are all washed and put away. Her room is finished up with the exception of her rocking chair. We are still looking for one. Planning and prepping is very much underway. We are almost all packed for the hospital. Danny hasn't packed...He is kinda a procrastinator.
I am eager to meet this little girl who has made my tummy into her own little punching bag for the past nine months.

Hopefully I can remember to update the blog in the next few weeks with pictures of her room and all of our events.

Welcome Home Alex and Desaree!!!

2010-12-21T11:36:00.000-08:00

Last night my brother in law got our family together for dinner. Danny and I found it odd that we were getting together with only 4 days till Christmas but thought ok lets go. So we all got together at Ciddici's Pizza which is a favorite of ours. Danny's parents, his sister and her family, and his brother Robert were all there. The only people missing were Danny's youngest brother Alex and his wife Desaree. Who have been in Honduras for the past 4 months working as teachers in a bi-lingual school.

I have been talking to Des the past few months and and was bummed when she told me their plan for their Christmas vacation time was to head to Costa Rica. So when her Dad and his girlfriend Cate walked in to the room my heart leaped. I thought yes they came home....Then he said "I just ran into Robert and thought we'd come back here to say hello." My heart sank. NO DES and ALEX. So we all sat visiting for awhile talking about Des and Alex and their trip. My mother in law even asked when they walked in did you bring my son (just joking around).

So about 10 minutes after Dean and Cate came in. In walk Des and Alex. Very casually I might add. My mother in law jumped up and ran to Alex. She was so happy to see him. I even cried I am so happy to have them home. They really made our Christmas! Even better they are 99.9% sure they aren't going back to Honduras!!! Which means Des will be here in February when Miss Analeah makes her big debut!

WELCOME HOME ALEX AND DESAREE! We are so excited to have you home!!!

Alex and Delfina

Bekah is happy to have her Auntie home!!!!

30 Weeks

2010-12-19T17:19:00.000-08:00

This week has been alot of Holiday fun! Thursday Bekah had her Christmas program at school. The kids were so cute. Bekah made us a wonderful calendar.
Friday night we went up to the Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway with Misty, Leo and the boys. Hot cocoa, and christmas lights. Ahhhh so much fun!
And then we topped the week off by celebrating with The Edminster's at their holiday party. Bekah even got to see Santa and got an early Christmas gift!
Only 5 more days til Christmas!!!!

30 Weeks down 10 to GO!!!!

Oh Man Oh Man

2010-12-14T19:25:00.000-08:00

So I am now almost 30 Weeks, I will post a pic Friday. This past two weeks has been a little crazy and I totally forgot to have my weekly pics taken. Sorry Miss Annie! I had my 28 week visit and saw another doctor in the practice. She seems to think I am measuring just right. Except my weight. Its hard enough to be gaining a lot of weight, even harder when I'm told I am gaining to much weekly. It was THANKSGIVING was my excuse, but it might have been the two things of ice cream I ate in 2 days. OOPS! So needless to say I have started watching what I am eating and trying to exercise a little. But this little girl is making exercising very difficult.
Bekah had her first testing on Friday. She made me so proud! I love seeing her taking class and being so serious about it.

Punches...She yelled so loud!

Bekah, Me and Papa Barry along with Jenn and Shaun

My little Orange Belt!!!!

Ebates.com

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

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27 Weeks

2010-11-29T11:39:00.000-08:00

I am now 27 weeks into this pregnancy. I had my 26 week appointment last week and I am measuring at 29 weeks. Apparently I have been measuring about 2 weeks ahead of where I am for the past 2 months. Umm what could that mean? Here is what Babycenter had to say about it

Your due date is off. (The ultrasound can help your practitioner figure out your correct due date.) This seems like the best option for me!! I would love to have this baby sooner than I am supposed to!

You have looser abdominal muscles than most women as a result of an earlier pregnancy. This is most likely what is going on since I had Bekah.

You have uterine fibroids. Don't think this is it

You're carrying twins or more. BETTER NOT BE, I am not prepared for two...just one thank you!

You have too much amniotic fluid. Hope not

Your baby is positioned high above your pelvis, which might be the case with abreech baby or if you have a placenta previa. Okay anyother one I don't want....I was breech and my mom ended up having to have an emergency c-section
You have a bigger-than-normal baby because of gestational diabetes. This condition is known as macrosomia. You may need to be tested to rule it out. I have my gross glucose test next tuesday, so hopefully this will be ruled out.

Or you might simply be carrying a big, perfectly healthy baby. I can go for this, but really I don't know what I would do with a baby more than 6 lbs. Bekah was 5lbs 10.7oz. and 18 inches when she was born full term!

And of course I absolutely hate pregnancy! I constantly have heartburn. Anything causes it, even water. I have tried so many things to relieve it. Ginger, peppermint, ginger tea, and of course antacids. Then there is the back and hip pain, along with my knee. I can not wait to hold this little girl in my arms and see her face!

In other news we have gotten her room almost finished. I still need to put up some decor and of course her shelves (this is on Danny's to-do list). Along with finding her a dresser and a new glider rocker since Danny has destroyed mine using it as a game chair.

Bekah had a snow day last week due to the 1/4 inch of snow we had. My niece Amelia was out of school for the week for conferences and Thanksgiving so she had come to spend the night with Bekah the night the snow started falling. Thank goodness she did, because Bekah didn't even ask about school since she was busy playing with Amelia. The girls had fun playing on the deck and getting all the snow off of it. We also had left a ice cube tray out with water in it to see if it would freeze. (Easy entertainment for my little one) We got some ice cubes!!!

We had a great Thanksgiving and now we are looking forward to a GREAT Christmas!!

24 Weeks

2010-11-08T21:09:00.000-08:00

24 Weeks

My beautiful little girl

My Little Future Black Belt

2010-11-03T20:01:00.000-07:00

As a martial arts instructor I've struggled with the idea of when to put Bekah into classes. After her 4th birthday I changed my work schedule so that I could just meet Danny at my work with her. Well the first day of the new schedule Bekah walked out upset that she didn't get to take class. So the next day I figured we could let her try out class and see how she did. Well she did great. She followed directions and didn't play around.She takes it very serious and always shows me what she learned when I come home a few hours later.

She told me today as I was changing into my uniform that she is going to be a black belt just like me. Let me tell ya it melted my heart. I've always said that due to the benefits I received by doing martial arts my child or children would have no choice they would do martial arts. Now I am just so relieved that she enjoys it and is having fun learning skills like listening and respect. Here are a few cute pics of her 3rd class as a Tiny Tiger!

Halloween & 23 Weeks

2010-11-02T14:41:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a great Halloween. We had a good one. Bekah did great going up to the door....some she went to by herself even. We told her she had to be loud in order for people to her her. Well some people were yelled at because of this....And did I mention Bekah doesn't call it Trick or Treat....It's "Trick my Treat" so you can imagine how many times we had people giggling after she yelled it at them. Like my sister said...That will be cute til she is about 13. I am so happy that October is over...now on to Thanksgiving and CHRISTMAS!!!

Halloween Party at school

Carving her pumpkin at Ama and Apa's

Jessie and Woody

All her loot!

And now 23 Weeks.....

My Baby is 4!

2010-10-24T18:44:00.000-07:00

I meant to post this Thursday...but I guess I didn't so here it is

Happy 4th Birthday to the wonderful little girl that made me a Mommy!

Bekah's Birthday Week

2010-10-24T18:35:00.000-07:00

This was Bekah's birthday week...Her birthday was officially on Thursday. However she celebrated 3 days this week plus got special gifts at the doctor and the dentist! This is our last birthday with Bekah as our only child. It was a great week for her and a wonderful week for me to celebrate the little one that made me a mommy.

On Tuesday she had her birthday snack day at school. It was so fun to watch Bekah in school with all her new school friends. And she was so happy to give them cupcake....Or as she still calls them Upcakes.

On Thursday, Danny and I had our first teacher-parent conference. It went great and we found out Bekah has adjusted well to school. After our conference Bekah got to pick out where we would have her birthday lunch and got to pick out a birthday gift. Lum Yen buffett and a pink toy laptop. (That's my girl) We also had her traditional cupcake at home with mommy and daddy. That will be one we will be keeping when Analeah comes!

Friday Bekah had her 4 year well child visit. My little one is still on her own chart. She is 26 pounds and 38 inches tall. But she has grown 2 inches in 2 months....so maybe we are hitting a growth spurt. We also got some good news on her eyesight. 20/30 YEA, so she isn't like mommy! Bekah is also extremely brave! 4 yes 4 shots and flu mist! Luckily no more shots for 2 years!

Then there was Saturday, the birthday party. Cupcakes! Cake! and PRESENTS!

Bekah and Lori

Bekah and Linda

Bekah getting the mail at school on her birthday.

Reading her birthday card from Linda and Lori

SHE IS 4!

We've been taking pictures with this Curious George since the day she was born

the traditional birthday cupcake with mommy and daddy

Cupcakes Mommy and Bekah made

Bekah practicing her Big Sissy kisses on cousin Adele

Bekah and her presents.....She loves Barbie!

A new baby doll, this was after warming up to it....it was a little scary at first

A REAL GUITAR!

MY BABY IS 4!

Such a great birthday!

2010-10-18T13:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my 28th birthday. Wow 28...how did it get here so fast. Saturday night Danny and I went up to Tualatin and went to Claim Jumper for my birthday dinner just the two of us. It was a wonderful dinner and nice to spend some quality quiet time together. We stayed up at my sister Misty's house so that her and I could do something the next day together while my WONDERFUL, TERRIFIC brother in law Leo watched all three kiddos. Sunday morning Misty took me for breakfast and hot cocoa (since I can't drink coffee). Then we head over to Lincoln City and hit the casino. It was so great to spend my birthday with my sister. I miss being able to spend time just the two of us without interruptions. Thank you Misty for making my birthday a great day!

And the NEW BABY IS......

2010-10-13T10:34:00.000-07:00

Sorry this has taken so long, I think by now most of you already know what the baby is. Last Friday I shorted out my power charger for my laptop and haven't been able to use it since it was dead. I have a new charger! So here it is....The Baby is a GIRL!!!! Our little Analeah Danielle is healthy and measuring right on for her due date!

See I am literally the worst blogger EVER!

2010-10-03T19:14:00.000-07:00

Well I am finally back to update everyone on our crazy little life. Where to start...Maybe where I left off a few months ago when I posted that I only had a few weeks til Vegas. Back in March, we went to Vegas for ATA Spring Nationals and I tested for my 4th degree black belt. It was something I had been working on for 5 years. I had to put it off when I had Bekah and then getting back into shape for it was a challenge. But I did it and I passed my testing. The trip was a wonderful break from the norm for Danny and me. My older sister Misty also went along for support and well the gambling

After Vegas, it was back to the swing of normal life for us for a few weeks...

The end of June we found out we were expecting again! I am now 19 weeks along and due Feb. 24, 2011. We couldn't be more excited to have a new addition to our family. Bekah is over the moon about being a big sister and getting to help with a baby. She is pretty sure that their our 2 babies in my tummy even though the doctor has told her that she can only find one in there.

As you may remember Danny's dad was diagnosed with stomach cancer in November of last year....Almost 1 year ago. As a family we have grown so much stronger this year. Danny and I have a stronger marriage and "don't sweat the small stuff" anymore. I've seen my husband in a new light. He has always been my rock, the one that takes care of me when I am worried, scared or upset. For the first time I saw him cry. If you know Danny, you know that everything is a joke. He finds the humor and light in every situation. But we spent many emotional nights sitting and talking about the unknown. What if... Danny would break down at the mention of his dad losing his battle. At one point Daniel (who had already been through surgery to remove his entire stomach and 2 rounds of chemo) was ready to give up. He was in an immense amount of pain and didn't want to keep going. The family came together and rallied to convince him to just do it one more time. This was just a few days after Danny and I found out we were expecting. I remember after Danny and his brothers talked with Daniel we came home that night and Danny just sat in the chair exhausted from all the emotion, looked at me and said "I can't lose him." For the first time in our relationship I felt he needed me the way I always need him. I have grown closer to his parents who I value so much more than I did a year ago. I don't feel like I am on the outside as I once did but part of their family now. (Danny's family is extremely close to a point that I wasn't comfortable with it for a long time, since I come from an extremely dysfunctional family)

We spent the rest of our summer enjoying family time with camping trips and outings.
A great experience and tradition I hope that will continue. In August Daniel finished his treatments and in September we found out he CANCER FREE!!!!

Bekah started preschool last month. I can't believe my little girl is in school. Now we are preparing for Bekah's 4th (OMG) Birthday. And of course we are prepping our life for baby #2. I will try to keep posting on this crazy new adventure we are on.

Well I think I did okay at posting....Check back to see if I stay up to date on this!

Mandy

I am so bad at keeping up with this!

2010-09-29T14:06:00.001-07:00

So back in April I vowed to myself that I would try to stay up to date on this blog. Our little family has such a busy life that I would always have stuff to write. But alas I find myself on here almost 6 months later and I haven't kept up. I am so disappointed in myself. So later tonight I hope to put up a whole post with pics from this summer and all of our big news!

Almost time for VEGAS!!!

2010-03-18T20:11:00.000-07:00

I am so excited I just had to post. Next Wednesday I head to Vegas to test for my 4th degree!

Year in Review

2010-02-28T15:55:00.000-08:00

After a year of not posting single thing....trust me I always almost did. I have decided to relive the past non blogging year in pictures. This way everything is out of the way and I can start all over. Hopefully I can remember to blog when something important happens!

A year in pictures

APRIL 2009

April Showers Bring May Flowers, but Bekah found some in April at Grandma and Grandpa's

Because Gabe was finishing school in Seaside it had been awhile since we had seen him and Michelle. We made a special day trip over to visit and had a ton of fun!

MAY 2009

Easter with the cousins at Grandma and Grandpa's
Who knew chocolate ice cream could lead to this??
Brotherly love at it's cutest!
A little Jonas...and his faux hawk
Guess what.....Carson got a girl to marry him!!!!

Sunshine and baseball go hand in hand

JUNE 2009

Spending some quality time with the boys

A special trip to the zoo with Misty and the boys

Desaree's Bachelorette Party......this was a FUN night!

Desaree and Alex's Wedding

JULY 2009

The start of our festival VIP summer, 4th of July Parade

2nd Annual Cervantez 4th of July Party.

Not the best picture of our little family, but this is us

AUGUST 2009

My little girl is growing up.
Gabe and Michelle's Wedding

SEPTEMBER 2009

Birthday Dinner for Lolo

Danny started dieting LOST 20 lbs!!!!

One Last weekend of summer to dog pile on AJ before he starts school!

OCTOBER 2009

Welcome to the family Teddy

Happy Birthday to me!

My Baby is 3!!!!

With this family there is always a celebration....Veronica's 50th

My sister in laws Maggie and DesareeHalloween and Trick or Treating with AJ

NOVEMBER 2009

Did someone call the fire department?

Alex's Birthday at Impluse......Here's the story, Danny's dad had just been diagnosed with stomach cancer the week before this, everyone came together to celebrate Alex's birthday and show our love and support for Daniel

The best father in law a girl could ask for.

DECEMBER 2009

Time for Holiday Fun!

Santa pictures at the Mall

ZooLights with the Castellano's

Ugly Sweater Party

Christmas Dinner with the Yoder's

Charades with the family

Annual White Elephant Exchange between the family

Christmas Morning for my babygirl

January 2010

Delfina's 50th Birthday

A trip to see my grandma.

New iPhones.....

There is will be so much happening this year, I will try to keep up on the blogging!

Sunshine

2009-04-05T16:25:00.001-07:00

Ah the wonders of what a little bit of sunshine can do for one's attitude. After being sick for a week I was growing quite crabby. Poor Danny, I really don't know how much of my smart remarks he could have taken. But after a little bit of time in the wonderful sunshine today I am in a much better mood. I feel good finally!

Yesterday I went to the Kidz n Power seminar held here in Albany. Its an awesome child protection program through the ATA (American Taekwondo Association). Its part of our 40/40 program that will offically launch in June this year. It is the goal of ATA to help protect 40,000 children nationally and help improve the fitness of 40,000. I am now in charge of organizing my own community wide seminar in the West Salem area. I have so much to do, but can't wait to get started!!!!

Photoshop fun

2009-04-02T13:30:00.000-07:00

I am still not feeling very good today. Still in a lot of pain, so I'm getting a chance to play a little on photoshop.

Danny and I were married in Vegas at the Little White Chapel. (Micheal Jordan got married there, as well as Britney Spears) I played a little with the sign and I'm going to do a new scrap page for us. I'll post it when its complete.

I'm so sick of being SICK, but Happy Birthday Danny!

2009-04-01T19:14:00.000-07:00

Warning long post!

I have come to the conclusion that being sick sucks. Monday I started feeling sick to my stomach around 2 and by around 7 I was doubled over in pain. Luckily, I was over visiting my parents and my dad had my mom take me to urgent care in Lebanon. The doctor there saw me for no joke 2 minutes and theynever even took my temperature. I left there around 9 and by 11 I was vomiting and couldn't stop.

We called the ER at 1 and asked to speak to a nurse and they said they'd call back but never did. I now know I should have just had my mom drive me to the ER in Albany! So yesterday morning I came home and Danny took me in to urgent care here in Albany, I had a 102.5 temp and they took blood tests and stuff. I was there for about 3 hours (with the doctor, not waiting) They came to the conclusion that I have a double kidney infection. The doctor that saw me wanted to send me to the hospital right away but called the hospitalist and he advised

that I just have some fluids and see if they could get the vomiting to stop. So they gave me a shot of a heavy antibiotic, a shot of an anti-neausa medication and sent me to the hospital for IV fluids. I was at the hospital for 2 hours getting fluids. Which I can tell you was no fun! I also got another dose of the anti-nausea medication so that I could get some sleep. Man that helped! I came home and slept from 6 pm to 9 am this morning.

I went back in to the doctor today for follow up and the nurse that saw me yesterday said I looked so much better than yesterday. I felt that way since I had even showered this morning. I am starting to feel a little better.

Still so much pain! And the neausa is back but hopefully with all the meds I am on and water/ juice that I've been drinking I won't have to go back to the hospital! Its also Danny's birthday today. I know April Fools Day. Happy Birthday Baby! Sorry that I'm sick and you have to take care of me! : ( I took some cute pics of him and Bekah with his cake. (we only had the pink candle from Bekah's 1st birthday) If you don't know Bekah's favorite song is Happy Birthday. And everytime she hears it she thinks its for her.

Get Away from the Kitty

2009-03-30T11:00:00.001-07:00

Our neighbors have an outside cat that comes around whenever I am outside. Its a very nice cat. And I believe its good around little kids. (they have a 3 year old) We were outside playing the other day when it was nice, the cat came over. Bekah was quite interested and wanted the cat to come to her. However, Bekah wasn't to sure about it...

Bekah says....

2009-03-23T13:13:00.000-07:00

Bekah: (hiccups) "Oh mommy I have the kick ups."

Finally Feeling Better

2009-02-25T14:39:00.000-08:00

After a week of being sick, Bekah and I are both finally feeling better. I was suffering from a bad cold. Bekah had a terrible ear infection. Thankfully we are feeling better and getting back to our routine. Being sick of course is the downside to working with alot of kiddos.

A Daily Helping of Bekah

2009-02-09T16:15:00.000-08:00

Bekah is really starting to become a very funny little girl. I've decided I'm going to start posting the funny little things she does and says. And I'm starting with two very funny things she did today.

So Bekah walked in with my bra on her chest, I asked "What is that you have on baby" she said "Mommy it's my boobies diaper"

Boobies Diaper - - Meaning a bra

In the process of changing Bekah's diaper she says "Oh that's me....yuck mom"

The Spicy Chicken Leg Race

2009-02-09T15:53:00.000-08:00

This is so funny I had to share...

The contestants

Desaree AKA Des the Mess....(you'll understand)

Robert AKA Frankie

They are ready for battle..... Look at the intensity in Robert's face

Maggie was the starter....and GO!

THEY ARE OFF....LOOK AT THE MESS THAT DES IS MAKING!

Appartently they were really hot....This is his way of letting us all know

She may have lost, but at least she had a good time...

A Night Out

2009-02-09T15:34:00.000-08:00

Saturday night Danny and I went out with his family for his brother, cousin, and uncle's birthdays. We had a great time in Portland. We enjoyed good food, drinks and the family.

These four little words...

2009-01-14T22:40:00.000-08:00

The best words you can ever hear your child say.
"Mommy, I love you!"
Bekah is saying it all the time and it just melts my heart eachtime!

Picture of us

2009-01-12T17:42:00.000-08:00

Can we ever have a good picture of the three of us? New Years Eve 09. Poor Danny, he had an eye infection.

New to this whole Blogging thing!

2009-01-12T16:00:00.000-08:00

I went to Crystal's today and we started looking at different blogs of people we went to high school with. We talked about how creative they were and how everyone seemed like they had things together. We joked about what our blogs would say if we had them. Posts like, Today Bekah watched TV, while I sat on the couch. After much resistance, I too am jumping on board with this trend. I feel like this is the perfect way for me to chronicle the life of my daughter and our journey as a family. We are trying for a new baby and in hopes I do get pregnant soon this is a good way for me to document it. I look forward to blogging. Even if its just to give myself and Crystal a good laugh!