The Crazy Garcia House

Model and Talent Expo.. Ricky is on his way to stardom!

2010-10-13T08:29:00.000-07:00

November 17-21
The 2010 Fall Model & Talent EXPO
Dallas, Texas
By Invitation Only!
The Model & Talent EXPO, presented by Mike Beaty, is the most exciting model and talent discovery event of the year. The world's top model and talent agents will be there to meet you. The EXPO offers you a world of opportunities all under one roof. The EXPO is a highly selective event where only the best are invited!
The Model & Talent EXPO has successfully placed models, actors, singers and dancers with the top agencies and managers from around the world. EXPO participants can be seen in fashion shows, magazines, catalogs, national print campaigns, TV shows, sitcoms, soap operas, movies and Broadway. Many of the singers have received major recording contracts. You will meet the Who's Who in the modeling and talent industry at Mike Beaty's Model & Talent EXPO.
The EXPO'S concept is to showcase the individual. Agents and Managers come to see you audition and can launch your careers

http://www.modelandtalentexpo.com/mte/home.html

Ricky has been invited to this! Of course it comes with a cost! If you would like to help him reach his chance at this amazing opportunity we are selling raffle tickets at the low cost of $10 a piece! The prize is a cruise for two March 2011 (exact week yet to be determined) plus $500 spending money. We are selling them up until the day we leave for Dallas! The drawing will be held November 29th..
Lots of great info is listed on the website above including success stories, scouts that will be there. This is a legit expo! Here is just a little bit more information on what Expo is. Ricky is competing in almost all areas from acting- monologue, cold-read, and 2 person scene, singing, guitar, songwriting, and modeling.

Model and Talent Expo presented by Mike Beaty is an educational and career-building event like none other for people interested in the modeling and performing arts fields. The Expo is designed to allow aspiring models, actors, singers and o showcase their abilities in front of some of the world's most prominent agents, managers, casting directors, recording labels and clients. The Expo features workshops and seminars by industry professionals where one can learn about all aspects of the industry, such as: runway techniques, acting techniques, dance, audition styles, photography, film work, hair and makeup artistry, styling, and internships. During the four days of auditions, seminars and workshops, participants will gain insight into how they fit into these exciting fields. Since 1992, the Expo has brought models, actors and performers together with power house decision makers in the modeling and entertainment industries. The Expo has a proven track record of changing lives. The Expo is an exclusive event and only those selected from approved agencies or schools can attend. Whether participants move on to a career in front of or behind the camera, a discover a venue they didn't think possible, the Expo gives them valuable experience and knowledge, as well as a boosted self-esteem. In four fun-filled days, participants will get the chance to audition in runway, photography, monologues, cold read TV commercials, TV scenes, swimsuit, singing and dancing. In addition, they will attend educational seminars, one-on-one interviews with scouts, and an awards banquet. Come to the Expo and experience a world of opportunity all under one roof!

UT Bound? Time will tell!

2010-10-08T17:23:00.000-07:00

Well not long ago I posted Marc's college status and having his mind set on staying as close to home as possible. I was beginning to wonder if he was really mine! Hahaha. He was very interested in attending UTSA or Texas State. You know his mind was set to being able to come home whenever he felt like it for home-cooked meals and more. Ricardo and I have been throwing out the idea of looking at other schools, UT being one that was mentioned frequently. Marc has mentioned that he's strongly thinking about a business degree. UT has one of the top 10 business programs in the nation. So yeah of course we were pushing UT. The tuition is not too bad AND we would get in-state price and it's fairly close to home. Ok maybe a little too close if you ask me! Hahaha. After all when I think of going away to college I mean farther away than 45 minutes-1hour, which is how far UT is. Well I have a cousin who is a junior there and Marc made arrangements one weekend to hang out with him. Ever since that visit Marc has been dead set on attending UT and is determined to get in there somehow, someway. I just knew it! I knew that once he was given a real feel of what college is about, of what Austin is really like, etc. that Marc would really want to go there. I think I do know my child just a little and really felt that UT would be a good fit for him. If not UT, then the surrounding Austin colleges such as St Edwards and Huston-Tillotson. Since the visit there he has gotten very serious about the whole college thing such as what he needs to make on his SAT's to get in, financial aid and more. Can you say we are happy that UT is now in the running for possible colleges? Oh YES! Hook Em Horns! Now, if he choses somewhere other than UT I will be content. I heard in someones speech back when Marc was in the 2nd grade that the question should not be are you going to college, but where are you going? That being said we are in the stages now of SAT prep, financial aid, scholarships, etc. It's an exciting time right now, yet so hard to believe that 18 yrs has flown by right before my eyes!

We have a rising star in the house!

2010-10-05T08:45:00.000-07:00

Not long ago Ricardo saw an ad about auditioning for some top agencies, including Nickelodeon, Disney and many others. Of course we mentioned this to Ricky and he was all for it! We weren’t really sure what to expect. I was actually thinking we might be auditioning that day at the meeting we were going to. Well we went an it turns out it was an information meeting at one of the local fashion and talent agencies here in town. This company was holding auditions and if they liked what they saw, your child would get an invite to this big Expo held in Dallas in November where the top agencies will be at. Ricky was really excited to show these people what he was all about. He was prepared to sing and maybe a do a little skit. He was given a short script/cold read part for a Pringles commercial and given a few minutes to go over his part. When it was his turn to go back he did his thing and then sang Billionaire. Well, needless to say when his turn was up we were called back and were told how great Ricky's natural raw talent was. We were given the invite and of course we said yes to that! We are really excited for this wonderful opportunity that Ricky has been given, which will ultimately be a life changing experience. Can I say we are hoping for a call back from Disney or Nickelodeon? You bet! More info on Expo in another post.

School is back in session!

2010-10-05T08:30:00.000-07:00

Ricky is in 6th. Justin is in 10th. Marc is in 12th! Hard to believe that in one year he will graduate and go onto college. I hear day after day that I am way to young looking to having kids in high school. Of course I’m not! Thats part of having kids right after high school. I’ll just soak up my youthful look as long as it lasts!

New York Trip

2010-10-05T07:17:00.000-07:00

So all the boys were gone at the same time during the summer and I decided what better place to have a getaway than going to New York City. Luckily Ricardo was down for it so the planning started right away. We did so many fun things, and went to new places and tried new restaurants on this trip.

Some of the highlights on this trip was going to Governor’s Island and hanging out at Taxi Beach there with Sara and her husband Efrain.

We also went to see the Blue Man Group earlier in the day and that was awesome! One morning Ricardo went golfing with Efrain while Sara and I went to the Botanical Gardens then went back to the clubhouse and hung out while the guys finished up their game. The only thing missing was our big poofy hats so we could really feel like trophy wives! Haha!

We went to several comedy clubs on our visit. That of course is one of my favorite things to do- who doesn’t need and love a good laugh from time to time right!

Ricardo and I saw the 4th of July fireworks and now I can happily check that off my list. I’m telling you it was a MADHOUSE! I don’t need to see them up close again, but happy we did just this one time.

I saw The Heights with Norma, Devin, Sara and Bryant. I really enjoyed that show!

One day while hanging out at the Blue Fin in Times Square, where I had lunch with Sara, there was a big event going on right in front of us. Turns out it was the big spectacle/ promoting the release of Madden 2011. The New Orleans Saints were there along with the cheerleaders. I decided to keep my window seat at the restaurant and take pics from the inside- since it was ridiculously hot outside! When I saw the team and cheerleaders were throwing out copies of the game and went out and tried my luck. Since I know ALL about football I yelled the magic words and was given a copy from one of the cheerleaders. That was cool!

Last but not least, I was able to see Papa Duke’s one day (Norma, Sara, and Maddie’s Dad) He is hanging in there, and to say that he is Superman might be an understatement! What a fighter he is.

Overall, this trip was so much fun and of course I want to go back asap! This may have been of the best trips I have had there.

Best of Friends/Worst of Enemies

2010-09-29T08:18:00.000-07:00

So it's on ongoing conversation about these two boys. One minute the are getting along great and the next minute they can't stand each other. There are many days they want to wrestle with each other- you know a friendly wrestling match. Well anytime that takes place, things get ugly in my house. Just one of the reasons why I don't enjoy these two wrestling with each other at all! People say oh they're boys! Deep down I know they are the best of friends and lucky to have each other, even though that can be the worst of enemies sometimes!

Summer Thus Far...

2010-07-27T21:49:00.000-07:00

Well here's a quick recap on the Garcia'a family happenings for summer 2010.. I did make a blog before summer started of what I thought the boys had in mind.. Hey what do I know?! Marc figured out he didnt want to waste his whole summer working and Justin wanting to spend it training and playing football...
Soooo let's see...

Marc- He mainly "chilled out" for most of the summer... He went to Ohio for a week this summer. He's been wanting to visit there ever since we left so I am glad he finally had the chance.. I think Marc figured out that Texas "AINT" all that bad! He did finally manage to get a summer job.. Not sure if it was due to all the nagging, and nagging some more that I wouldn't be giving him gas money, but nevertheless he is out the door for a few hours a day doing something productive....He is still doing his MMA (mixed martial arts) which is good if you don't ask for details! I keep asking myself why did I ever pay to let him do this dangerous sport?! Who enjoys being punched until you see stars? Not me!
He's still pursuing Texas State, UTSA, and a few other local colleges. He is still considering UT.. which is good. Hey its top 10 for business schools in the U.S.

Justin-
He really did want to work at Schlitterbahn this summer but it just didnt pan out.. They finally call him when he is getting ready to take off for a 2 week vacation with his best friend! He had a wonderful time being away but was eager to come home and get to training.. He has some goals in mind I guess- to get big and buff and ready for the 2010 high school football year. Justin did a week at the University of Texas football camp and really enjoyed it. He most enjoyed the positive feedback he received from the coaches.. Now whether he goes to UT or not I know these camps have really helped my son grow as an athlete. He tells me so.
The other night we were talking about college and his possibilities.. He is going to explore other options besides UT.. I mean wherever he can pay football is where I think he will go.. He expressed to me in our little chat that U of H (University of Houston) is a big option for him.. and then majoring in Sports Medicine.. I have no doubt that "Jittle" as everyone calls him around here will go into something sports related.. He has a true passion for sports..

Little Ricky-
He started out his summer with attending an acting camp.. The theme was Harry Met Percy (Harry Potter meets Percy Jackson) Ricky landed the role of Harry Potter and did and awesome job! I am still working on uploading those videos..
He took off to Aunt Meli, Uncle Kevin and Cousin Henry the first week of July.. For a good while his highlight was seeing "Lil Henry." He loved seeing him at the Easter party and couldn't wait to see him again.. Ricky said he was the most fun baby to be around and "He was such a happy baby" So yeah Ameli and Kevin- I'll still come sit for you guys if you want to get away for the weekend. Anyways.. Ricky came back from that trip and immediately headed off to his YMCA camp for two weeks.. He insisted on going two weeks.. He was having and awesome time there until one week and one day into the camp the dining hall burned to the ground :((( He only had 4 days left to go! While it was a sad way to end the camp I got to see my boy a lil early.. We missed each other soooooo much!!

We did have our family reunion just a few short weeks ago.. OMG it was the hottest it has been in all the summers in our attendance at Lake Murray.. I guess we forgot to put in our order of the breeze! Everyone missed Ricky and his dancing/Michael Jackson moves. He is sure a good source of entertainment! No doubt it will be there next year and if not it may be a sign to change our reunions to the a cooler time of the year.. Maybe fall?

Thats's about it for now.. I will update you all if anything exciting occurs in our life.. well anything that is worth sharing.. Love to all!

School's (almost) out for summer!

2010-05-20T07:07:00.000-07:00

Whew! What a year this has been! Is it June 4th yet? I'm ready to put this school year to rest and get on with summer already! Overall this year has been a struggle for ALL the boys in some way or another. Well heck, it was a struggle for all of us really! Some due to laziness in some way or another- not turning in homework, teacher conflicts, etc..
Marc and Justin surely mastered the social side of high school.. LOTS of changes will be made for the upcoming school year- not sure any of us will be happy about laying down the rules when that time comes and frankly I'm taking a break from thinking about that till the time comes..
There is NO break for me when it comes to school- can't complain though. So for all that wonder- are you still in school? When will you be done? Believe me I'll let you know when that time comes ok!

Summer plans for the CRAZY house are:

Ricky- attending acting camp the first two weeks school gets out.. The theme is When Harry Met Percy. Should be fun! There is another session he has in mind during the summer- Making a Movie.. That's a possibility..
Attending Camp Cullen. This will be his 3rd year. We had almost decided against it but he kept bringing it up and all the fun he had in the past at the sleepover camp.. Just haven't decided on which session yet.

Justin- applied to Schlitterbahn Waterpark. They hire at 15 so we are just waiting on the phone call! I am sure he will get that job, which he really wants to work thank goodness..
He'll be going to University of Texas football camps.. One is a football camp and the other is a strength and conditioning camp. He thoroughly enjoys these camps. It's money well spent I think! He'll be doing summer football for Steele.

Marc- He applied for an office job at Randolph Air Force Base. LET'S all pray he gets it! Monday- Friday- clerical work... Less time to be mischievous! He'll also be doing his MMA training.

Somewhere in this summer we'll fit in a road trip to Disney World and/or Universal Studios. Just need to figure out the best week and time to make this trip. Original week I chose was not good..
Family reunion with my mom's side is July 15-17th. We always look forward to that weekend, getting together with family and enjoying Lake Murray..

Many other possibilities of ways to spend our summer days are in the works. San Antonio has lots of attractions, from Sea World, Six Flags, Schlitterbahn, The River (Marc and Justin's fave hangout) and more... Come visit! I just hope this summer is not as hot as last summer..

Justin's 15!

2010-05-20T05:59:00.000-07:00

Soo Justin turned 15 and time slipped by me to make a blog entry for my favorite middle son.. So here you go! Going back to being in labor with Justin is not hard to do.. We were stationed in the little bitty town of Fallon, NV in 1995. I recall doing lots and lots of walking the days leading up to May 7th.. When I finally knew it was time to get to the hospital- off we went to the rinky dink hospital- it was a tiny place! I believe I got there around 1am and I DEFINITELY remember requesting that epidural. When I was checked the nurse said Oh you are too far along to have that.. YIKES!! So el natural is how Justin came and he came quick! He was born at 3am.. I remember the doctor rolling into the delivery room and him telling my mother in law something along the lines that he was half asleep.. Nice to know right! So that's how Justin made his entrance into this world! He was a mama's boy for the longest.. Nothing wrong with that though!
To celebrate his special day- I took him to Austin for dinner and shopping. Just the two of us and it was great! We went to NoRTH, an awesome restaurant and then did a little bit of shopping afterwards.
Some things about the middle man- being in that spot you are kinda left to compete with the older child.. That has definitely taken place in this household! I think it may have been one of the advantages for Justin because he is a VERY competitive child! Some things about him-
He loves ALL sports. This year he played football, basketball and baseball for his high school. Football is his favorite by far! Right now he's in spring football, getting conditioned for the fall. He was picked up as one of the top kids in his grade level to play during the summer.. :)
He has a strong desire to go to UT.. Gotta step up on the grades though if that is what he wants! He's been attending their football camps for the last two years and loves it already..
He was the freshman class vice president and wants to continue to try and be involved in student counsel throughout high school.
He is a VERY social kid...
He has sense of adventure- sometimes those adventures are a bit too mischievous!
He has a soft side to him as well.. Even bought me flowers and a beautiful card for Mother's Day!
Love you Buddy!
(I'll add pics to this next week when I transfer pics from my old pc to this new one.)

Happy Birthday Marc! 17yrs old today! 4-29-10

2010-04-29T07:45:00.000-07:00

17 yrs ago I gave birth to Marc Anthony.. I remember this day like the birth happened yesterday. I mean who can forget labor/childbirth anyways!! I got up very early with those labor pains and headed to Fairfax Hospital.. My mom and mother-in-law were with me throughout the entire ordeal. I remember having awesome nurses and that blessing they call an epidural. 13 or so hours of labor later Marc was born at 8:59pm. Ricardo was away at bootcamp, but I was able to call him via American Red Cross and tell him about the birth of our firstborn.. He has been a true blessing for us even though we did become parents a little sooner than we would have liked. Wouldn't change it though, after all that isn't even an option! Some things about Marc.. He loves to have a good time- see below pics!

He loves shoes (takes after me on that one)

He enjoys going to the lake and river with his friends on the weekends..

He loves baseball. He's going to take up MMA (one of his bday gifts) Mixed Martial Arts.

His love for pets has died down (thankfully.. it was stinking up the house) and as I said earlier the love for pets may have been replaced with the love for shoes. I can handle that!

He's considering UTSA or Texas State- the two colleges he says all his friend's are going to..

Some days he's a headache for us- (those darned teenage yrs!) and other days he's very chill and laid back..

Fiesta!

2010-04-27T06:58:00.000-07:00

FIESTA (Mardi Gras for the Mexicans) has come and gone. Ricardo and I were the only ones in the family to take advantage of the festivities on the last day of this 11 day party. There were numerous events I would have like to have attended such as the Oyster Bake, Taste of the Northside, and Battle of Flowers Parade, but hey there's always next year! We went to Market Square and stayed the whole day and well into the evening. We watched a little bit of the Fiesta Flambeau, which wasn't all that to me.. After you've seen the awesome parades at Disney World there's nothing that can top those. I hope some of you will be able to join us next year! Enjoy the pics..

Poteet Strawberry Festival

2010-04-22T14:13:00.000-07:00

Ricardo, Marc, Ricky, his friend Joey and I went to the Strawberry Festival two weekends ago. Lots of fun in the short time we were there,. We discovered just how darn expensive carnival rides are. After the kids each had eaten and rode a few rides were were completely out of tickets. I said something like "This is only once a yr and I havent taken Ricky to the a carnival like this before." Ricardo said something like this "Well you say that about every holiday when you want to buy lots of gifts." Needless to say we visited the ticket booth a few more times, the food booth a few more times, and I'm thankful this festival is only once a year. We'll be going back next year, most likely though on the night when the rides are unlimited with a wristband. The strawberry shortcake and strawberry wine were my highlights. Here's a few pics..

This weekend we are going to another festival- Fiesta. Looking forward to the food, drinks, parades and the carnival!

Teen Lingo of 2010

2010-04-22T13:32:00.000-07:00

I'm making a running list of all the things my kids say that make me say hmmm or ask the what they are talking about.. I am sure I had some kind of language that was hard for parents to figoure out.. Thought I'd make this list so the kids can look back and laugh.. Do you get this language??

"Can I swing the whip" means "Mom, can I borrow your car so I can roll up to school in the new ride?" Sure Marc, I'll let you swing the whip just BE CAREFUL.

"Let's Dipset", "Let's Bounce" means "Let's go" or "We are leaving"

"Im'a scoop ya" means "I'm on my way to pick you up."

This of course is just a start! I'll be adding this as the days go on. You know everyday I learn a new phrase in the language of teen lingo.. On top of this teen lingo the boys speak an updates version of pig latin.., Here's an example.. Schlitterbahn (waterpark) = Bitterschlan

Easter Weekend

2010-04-02T10:16:00.000-07:00

Going to enjoy Easter weekend with the family. Be back Monday to write about the fundraising plans in Bellas memory and our summer plans. Had to do some rearranging with our Florida trip since the Harry Potter theme park located in Universal Studios doesnt open until June 18th.. Here are some pics from last year. Man the boys have changed in one year!

Coping with a loss

2010-04-01T19:02:00.000-07:00

Well I found something that I could probably write a book about! Oprah was on and the topic was "Coping With Infertility." The topic triggered me to Bella and of course the mood went downhill.. I try my best each day to just cope with it.. to carry on with my normal everyday life.. but stuff like this just sucks all the happiness right out of you..I mean I do carry on with what I'm doing as Ive perfected faking happiness in recent times. How do you get people to understand that "chosing to be happy" is NOT an option here. The mood swings just come and go and we all just have to go with the emotion we feel at the time.. Wouldn't it be nice if we could just CHOSE TO BE HAPPY and STAY THAT WAY?! I would love that!! Unfortunately we are dealt with some very low blows at some point in our life, and while I dont have the exact same feelings as Maryann and Ryon who lost their only child, the princess they so desired, a child that only exists in their memory, I still feel the loss and the dreams for Bella that only exist in my memory and unfulfilled dreams. I am SUPER happy for my neices and nephews and love them all. I love babies! I dont want to take away the joy from seeing them hit their milestones or hearing about them since I dont actually live near any of them. :( At the same time it is soo bittersweet, cause Bella should be right there with them, crawling, cooing, laughing, you name it.. My sister should not be having to go read to Bella AT her grave, tell her how much she loves her AT her grave.. This is just the true unfairness of life! I know everyone showed their respect, their support, through the most difficult times including the passing, and the funeral. It's just very very tough now that the support system has moved on and your still stuck in the heavy grieving stage. We are still feeling the loss. Maryann sends me pictures of her visits to Bella, reading to her, pics of the cherry blossom tree Bella rests under and my heart just aches.. I wish she could have another happy healthy child tomorrow! I'd really love to know where that saying "time helps ease the pain" came from.. What a joke! I havent felt any of the easing whatsoever, rather found a way to "cope with the loss" more than anything..

Ok.. Just want to remind you all that YES I along with a few others are still working on putting together a fundraiser in Bella's memory. HUGE shoutout to Cami for her outstanding work on that CD coming out.. The date is likely to get moved around- just by a week or two from the original date we had given. It may or may not be as extravagant as the casino night AT the actual race track or a big elaborate party at the local park. Backup plans are in mind if the first two ideas just seem too costly. I'll talk more about the fundraising in my next post. Talking about that sure lifts me up-- Thanks Cami for all the work you have done on the CD and much much more- while I feel like Ive taken a break for just a moment.. Im back on it! Ive got it on the top of my list for next week!!

Maryann missing Bella..

On my reading list.. Empty Cradles Broken Hearts.. The title says it all!! Here's a link to the book..

http://www.storknet.com/bookshelf/emptycradle.htm

Guest Post : Just A Moment That Changed My Life by Steph from The Daily Digi

2010-04-01T07:27:00.001-07:00

Guest Post : Just A Moment That Changed My Life by Steph from The Daily Digi

Posted using ShareThis

College and Roadrunners

2010-03-31T09:41:00.000-07:00

Are you wondering what I'm talking about a Roadrunner for?? Do you even know what that is?? Do you remember the old cartoon with Wile the Coyote and Roadrunner? Oh anyways.. You know Marc will be graduating next year and college has been a HOT topic around here.. Ricardo and I have a list of places we'd like Marc to consider, University of Texas is on the top of course.. Well, Marc has a different list and so far he seems to have narrowed it down to one- just one.. UTSA (Their mascot is the Roadrunners) My idea of my kids going to college is- moving away from home, living in a dorm, and getting the full experience of college- academics/fun,etc.. Marc's idea is different AND I should've known this! After all I gave birth to him and have raised him right?? He wants to be near home, and likes a more smaller setting as far as school goes. UT is only 45-1hr away in Austin. Too far away.. Seriously??

So heres the breakdown/cost comparison between UTSA and UT
UTSA
2009-2010

Full Time Fall/Spring Undergraduate Resident Student
Living at Home w/Parents
Tuition (based on 15 hours per term
$5126.00
Fees (based on average for 15 hours per term)
$2966.00
Books (based on 15 hours – 5 classes)
$1000.00
Room (average)
$1837.00
Board (average)
$1470.00
Transportation (average)
$1838.00
Personal/Miscellaneous
$1400.00
Total Estimated Cost of Attendance
$15,637.00 (per yr)

UT
On-campus Housing Costs (2010–2011)

Begin at $8,184
Includes $1,700 for food
Estimated Undergraduate Flat-Rate Tuition and Fees (2009–2010)

Texas resident $8,520 – 9,808
Estimated Total Cost of Undergraduate Education (Fall 2009–Spring 2010)

Texas resident on-campus $22,464 – 27,168
Texas resident off-campus $22,842 – 27,546

So yeah we'll save a little by him going to UTSA, if this is where he ends up choosing to go. My guess is that Marc has had enough moving around in his (almost) 17yrs to last him a lifetime. He has enjoyed San Antonio and wants to stay right here. San Antonio is a great city with so much activity, entertainment, etc.. I guess I can't blame him for wanting to stick around. He must have gotten that "homebody" gene from Ricardo, cause if I had the option of going away to school at my parent's expense no less, that's what I would have done..

Scrapbooking Getaway- coming soon!!

2010-03-31T07:04:00.000-07:00

I'm really looking forward to my scrapbooking retreat in April.. Heading to VA Beach April 16-18 for a scrapbooking retreat with two of my longtime friends we were stationed with in Puerto Rico. This retreat is held twice a year, and I thankful to make it to one of them every year.. This will be my third I believe. Nothing but scrapbooking, eating, laughing with friends, strolling the beach, and no sleep.. Works for me! I get soo much scrapbooking done and it's awesome! April 16th--Please come quick!

Me, Esther, Candi and Wendy.. We usually meet up with Candi for breakfast before heading off to the retreat. Hopefully Candi will join us at the retreat one of these years.

Wendy, Esther and I- with our scrabooking stuff spread out ALL over the place.. So great getting ideas and looking at other's creativity..

This is our backyard.. Too cold to swim in the pool but we do take advantage of the hot tub that is off to the left.. Can't see it in this pic..

Our Children

2010-03-24T05:30:00.000-07:00

A friend posted this and I really enjoyed it so I'm going to be a copycat and post it as well..The words are so very true!

Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body.

-- Elizabeth Stone

Never before has this quote meant more to me. (I always thought it was a little cheesy to be honest.) But now I have older kids...teenagers... and I have discovered a few things:

With a word a child can break your heart.

With a gesture a child can give you hope and make you feel love.

An email from a child can be the highlight of your day.

A child can make you feel more frustrated, more angry and more inept than you ever thought possible.

That same child can make you proud and happy.

Your children can make you question your very purpose in life.

Your children can make you feel that your life has purpose and meaning.

My heart is in a constant state of turmoil: stomped on one minute, full of love the next.

Universal Studios and Disney World...

2010-03-22T07:45:00.000-07:00

Working on our summer vacation.. The original plan was to take advantage of the military offer for disneyworld, $100 per person for a 5day pass and do one day at Universal Studios. After going back and forth with the boys we decided we'd rather have more days at US and one day at Disney.. After all, the boys are FINALLY brave enough to ride roller coasters.. Not to mention the long awaited Harry Potter land, located in Universal Studios, is opening shortly.. We gotta be one of the first ones to check it out! Can't wait!

The last time we were at Universal Studios (Spring 2005) WOW!

Harry Potter Theme Park- in Universal Studios

The last time we were at DisneyWorld (Spring 07') It's been that long really?? The boys have changed SOO much since this picture, especially Marc.

Can I leave them here if they get out of line on the trip??

Cinderella's Castle at night. Soo pretty!!

JUNIORITIS

2010-03-21T08:33:00.000-07:00

Marc has always been very studious ever since he started school. Always brought home the straight A's at least up until last year. We never really had to be on top of him making sure his homework was done, help him with this homework, etc. So this year has been a little different you could say. He has spent more time this year hanging with his friends than studying I suppose as the the grades have slacked. We were trying to pinpoint what was going on and what to do about it. Of course we heard opinions from those who say we gave him to much freedom, we need to take this away or that away.. You name it- everyone had the answers on how to fix the issue! So anyways, we recently told Marc that he had X amount of time to bring up the grades or there would be consequences- no car was the big one until the grades were brought up. We've been in touch with the teachers and have seen some of the missing assignments turned in.. I mean overall he has good grades with the execption of his first 2 classes.. We recently had a meeting with his counselor to see where he stood in class rank, get college info, sat info, etc.. He has a 92 average, and his class rank is 92 out of 550, in the top 16th (think that's what it is) so still pretty good, but was better than that up until this year. He knows he needs to make nothing less than a B this coming quarter to maintain that I believe.. I've asked Marc what is going on here- why the slacking when Ricardo has told him over and over and over how important his junior year is. Marc told me simply- He has JUNIORITIS!! So yes, that's his diagnosis! Hey at least we have some answers! Now we are just working to find a cure for this.. :) Happy parenting to you all! Hardest job in the world I would have to say! I am sure all you parents would agree with me on that.

Justin, Ricardo, Marc and my nephew Henry

Three Things I Love....

2010-03-20T02:42:00.000-07:00

Three things I love in my life- besides family and friends..
1- My new ride!
2- My camera. Started using it again with baseball season in full swing. Love the sports mode as it allows me to capture the full action.
3- Iphone. Really fought myself on buying this, but I am soo glad I caved in on this purchase. Love it!

Getting up to date.. again!

2010-03-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

Let's see! Since my last posting on my words to live by lots of things have happened. That's obvious right having three active boys. I have managed to SIMPLIFY by getting rid of the clutter in each room. It's an ongoing project though for sure. Ive gotten rid of so much, yet when I look around I still see soo much more that really needs to go. CONSERVING finances has been a work in progress. Ive gotten as far as making a chart of all the bills that need to be paid off, using some of Dave Ramsey's ideas. They are great but a little tough to stick to, to say the least. CONSERVING opinions of others has been another work in progress. Think I'm doing pretty good though! CHERISH- yeah another word I have to remember daily.. You know when the kids really act up I want to fast forward those days and times to when they are more well behaved. Need to cherish all the moments, both good and bad as there are lessons to be learned in every situation. It seems lately I'm just wanting to fast forward my life to when there are no more stressful issues and life is just "normal." Need to work on that..

Since Bella Renae's passing not a moment has gone by where I don't think about her. Some days and moments are better than others when I think about her and the VERY short time I got to be with her. Since we found out the cause of ther death, several family members have began helping out to support the cause of her death which is ACD- Alveolar Cappilary Dysplasia.. More about that on this website.. http://www.acd-association.com/ Be sure to check out the public service announcement on there. It was made in memory of Bella.. Fundrasing ideas are in the works and I will share them once we (all included in helping make the event possible) solidified the details.

Ricky celebrated his 11th birthday January 22nd. I never got around to posting any pics of that so here is one. He is one who like to pose for all my pics thankfully.

Baseball is in full swing. We all very much enjoy this sport, even though the first few games for Marc and Justin were unbearably FREEZING! We are sure the cold weather has passed and will enjoy the games in this beautiful spring like weather.. Here are a few pics of Marc #4 and Justin #2

Spring break is going on right now. Can I say that I'm a little bummed our spring breaks are spent in SA for the next few years? Why the boys have games all during spring break doesn't make sense to me! I miss our annual spring break getaways! Planning to visit Mickey though when school gets out.. More on our summer plans in another post.. Be back for part 2 tomorrow or maybe later today..

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow."

"Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it."

Helen Keller

5th time is a charm..

2010-03-14T20:53:00.000-07:00

Ok this is my 5th YES 5th attempt at making a blog and no finish to anyone of them. So I will combine all of them into one posting- after this one of course and get you all caught up to date with the happening in the crazy garcia household. Then hopefully after that I wont be so critical on myself to make that "perfect" post and just not do it cause there isnt something exciting to post about..

WORDS to live by

2010-01-22T15:00:00.000-08:00

I intended to make this post at the beginning of the year.. to start the year off with a fresh start, but as most of you know I have had some curve balls thrown my way this month. On one of the blogs I follow there was a list of words people had chosen, each person chosing just one. I couldnt pick just one so I picked a few words that really stand out and hope to incorporate them into my life.. I have narrowed it down to CONSERVE, MANAGE, SIMPLIFY and CHERISH.
CONSERVE- my negative thoughts about people, and situations that are out of my control. Be more conservative with our finances. Conserve my time, making room for the most important things first.

MANAGE- my time more wisely and my family activities fitting in more time for each other.. I hope that is possible with everyone going differerent directions all the time! Manage our finances and concentrate on NOT spending as much on frivolous things. I don't go on huge shopping sprees and expensive items frequently, but need tocut back and save more.. Going to be a challenge for sure!

SIMPLIFY- try to live a more simple life, cut back on unecessary things. Sorry but girl trips are NOT part of things I intend to cut out. They are a necessity so I can regroup and regain my sanity. Clean out the cluter in my house. I want a very clean and simple house. Ok I may be asking too much in this area considering I live in a house with ALL boys..

CHERISH- very simply make the time, take the time to cherish those I love- family and friends, and the hobbies that I enjoy.

Life here on Earth is very brief and I want to make sure that I spend every moment making the best of it, CONSERVING and MANAGING my time more wisely, doing my best to live a more SIMPLE life and CHERISH each day that I wake up..

So what words or ways do you all hope to live by this year or things you may want to change??

HAPPY 11th BIRTHDAY RICKY!!

2010-01-22T07:31:00.000-08:00

Hard to believe that 11yrs ago today I gave birth to Ricky. I remember moving to Puerto Rico and we had decided we were done having kids. Well Ricardo had decided that really. I sold all the baby furniture, clothes,etc.. Of course shortly after doing that I felt the urge to have another child. I begged for nearly six months (I think) for one last child. Finally, Ricardo caved in and what do you know?! I was pregnant right away. My delivery with him was smooth. He was such a good baby! You know it all goes downhill when they start walking and talking! Just kidding! He has definitely kept us on our toes these past 11yrs with his liveliness. Some things about our "little" man.. He loves to talk! He loves to sing and makes youtube videos doing so.. He loves babies and has always wished for a little sister.. Maybe he just doesn't enjoy being the "baby" He has tried all sports- soccer, football, baseball, basketball.. and acting. He is super loving, has mood swings (haha)-- especially during homework time, but always apologizes in the end for getting angry.. Gotta love him for that! He will tell you he loves you a hundred times a day- unlike the other two! That may change in a few years when he hits the teen years I am afraid! He has been a true blessing in our life! I love you Ricky! He'll always be my baby..

Rest In Peace.. Our Sweet Bella Renae..

2010-01-20T07:43:00.000-08:00

Bella Renae Blehr, was born December 21, 2009 to my sister Maryann and brother in law Ryon. She lived just 22 days and fought until the very end to stay here with all her family who loved and adored her. Unfortunately, we lost her and she became God's Most Beautiful Angel on January 12, 2010. I feel so lost without this little girl, whom I was looking forward to spoiling in so many ways, from the girly time I would get to have with her, to taking her to NYC on shopping trips to American Girl, Toys R Us, and more! When my sister found out she was having a girl I was over the moon just picturing what she would look like, the fun years that were ahead of us with our Beautiful Bella. I really found myself emotionally attached to her before she was born. Unfortunately one day after Maryann gave birth, Bella developed some VERY serious complications. It was a blessing in some ways to have even had 22 days with her considering the numerous up and downs she had daily, hourly. I am now left to just see Bella in my dreams, as I have had lately. I see her soaring in the sky, in her beautiful cross lined gown, with short blond hair. She is so real in my dreams! Then.....I wake up on a wet pillow, after crying and realizing that she was ONLY in my dreams. The pain I feel doesn't compare to what my sister and Ryon are feeling after losing their firstborn. I just hope and pray that time will heal all of our broken hearts. We will NEVER forget this sweet child that came into our world and left us all too soon. Bella Renae will always be our Guardian Angel!

BORROWED ANGELS

2009 Year In Review. Another year has come and gone!

2009-12-29T03:52:00.000-08:00

Is it just me or did this year seem to come and go right before our eyes.. I heard someone say recently that as you get older that is what happens- the years just go by faster and faster. Not sure I like the sound of that! If that is the case we need to make the best of each day..
This year has had it's shares of both good times, milestones, and of course it's share of dissapointments and sad times. That is part of life I suppose. We gotta take the good times with the bad.. I think it's the bad times/rough spots that show our true strength and even make us stronger!
So let's see..
The boys turned another year older; Marc-16, Justin-14 and Ricky 10. Marc started driving and got his first car.. You know one of those milestones for parents that is more on the nervewracking side followed with a teeny bit of excitement for your child. Of course we see him less and less now because of this!
The boys have kept us busy as they all remained active in sports.
Marc played for his high school from Feb-end of April. He played throughout the year on several travel teams. He had a girlfriend- that I actually knew about! HAHAHA. Not sure how long the relationship lasted but I am glad it's over. Lets save the drama till he leaves high school please!
Justin loves all sports. He played basketball and football this year for the school. He also joined a select travel baseball team. As if we had time.. We had always shyed away from any team that involved travel and select- those two words combined spell MONEY. Thankfully we were with this team from it's foundation so with fundraisers,etc the expense has been bearable thus far.
Ricky played basketball and baseball this year. I'd love to put him back in soccer. It just conflicts with other sports. Acting classes are starting back up in January once a week so he will be back into that.
We've tried our best to keep them active in all these things and help keep them out of trouble.. Kids have their ways of making time to be kids- that includes being mischievous!
I managed to escape these children, husband included twice this year! How nice is that?! Went to Mexico in Feb/March and Miami in the summer. I definitely look foward to these getaways that is for sure!
We had our annual family reunion up at Lake Murray back in July. Always good times with the family!
Still plugging away in school. I'll let you all know when I will be finished though just going at it one class at a time it may be awhile!
We rejoiced in Ameli and Kevin having their firstborn in August, Henry Jackson. He is a very handsome little baby! Can't wait to finally meet him next week!
We also rejoiced in Maryann and Ryon having their firstborn on December 21st, Bella Renae. She's had a rough start in the world but she's a fighter and sure is cute. I get to see her this week.
We tried to end the year off with a bang.. taking a family cruise right before the holidays. Mother nature turned out to be our enemy. We got fogged in in Galveston which caused us to leave one day late and having to cancel a port. Then in Key West we experienced a massive flood.. The trip was quite memorable to say the least. All in all we still had a good time. I know for sure the boys did as they are hopeful we can go again over the holidays.. I'll leave that open and see what the year has in store for us reagarding trips. Dont think it will be anything elaborate this year- but I'm keeping the options open. I'm not one to sit around for too long without the need to take a trip somewhere!
Some of the year ending sad notes. Some of my closest friend's father suffered a stroke back in September. I was able to visit them in NY the beginning of this month, though I wasn't too much help on the caregiving end of it.. I am certainly not cut out for a nursing position that's for sure! It's soo hard to see loved ones experience this kind of devastation. At the same time the love and devotion they have given their father makes you smile..
To add to the true sadness, Little Bella Renae, as many of you know got sick shortly after her first day here in the world. She's still in the hospital fighting to get better. No doubt she is one her way to coming home. We all just wish it would be sooner rather than the "she'll be here for a long time" news the docs gave Maryann and Ryon.. When she finally comes home we will have a great homecoming celebration!
Soo there's my long/short recap of the year.. Ready to leave it behind and see what 2010 brings all of us.. I hope it is nothing but sunny blue skies and rainbows in 2010 after ending 2009 with rain/tears!
We all have alot to be thankful for! I am grateful for many things including good health and family!! God Bless!

HAPPY VETERAN'S DAY!!!!

2009-11-11T06:49:00.000-08:00

Happy Veteran's Day to all those that have served or our currently serving our country. The military has surely blessed our family in these 16 1/2 yrs! GOD BLESS THE USA!!!

Frazzled Woman

2009-10-08T07:03:00.001-07:00

No need for many words in this post..

This is me now...trying to implement stricter rules around here..

This is what I will look like very soon.. LOTS of gray hair and stressed out! Let's hope we all make it through these teenage years in one piece!!

moody post..

2009-09-25T17:57:00.000-07:00

update time...seriously gotta keep up with this..
Lots of stuff's been happening over here.. The boys are busy busy..

Marc- he's been working 2-4 times a week. Playing baseball tournaments on the weekends.. Not soo much time for the 35 plus geckos anymore- THANK GOD!! He was breeding their food as well which stunk up the whole room..and I was losing it.. I think he got sick of the nagging about it all soo he is selling them now.. :)))))))) Running around with his friends in his off time.. Some days I am thinking.. only 1 1/2 more years to have one less attitude in the house..

Justin- Busy with school. He won Vice President for his class. He is playing football on the freshman team and overall has mostly good days... He plays select ball and has a few tournaments lined up between now and November. Practicing for that Saturday and Sunday..

Ricky- enjoying being in the band for school.. he's been playing baseball for the local rec league.. games on Saturdays. sometimes two games which make for long days as they are not back to back. Practices once or twice during the week. This year has started LOTS of homework.. yuck for both mom and child..

Ricardo- wish he would travel more so I can fly somewhere at no expense but right now he is laying low. He's been busy taking a class for the military.. part of his requirements for an upcoming hopeful promotion. We shall see... He just informed me that he will be getting the follow on here at Randolph- so that Marc and Justin can graduate here.. He has really enjoyed working with his boss who has seen his hard work.. He recently received the company grade officer award for this command.
Back to moving status.. When we had talked about the possibilities of moving or staying he made it seem like a long shot to stay and asked me and the boys where we'd like to go next if we could move.. I would jump at the chance to move overseas. I've got a few friends stationed in Germany and one in Hawaii and I am just envious of all the pics they have posted of all the traveling they have been able to do.. I am seriously missing out on some good travel opportunities for the sake of the kids.. :((( Soo needless to say I have been a bit on the moody side lately.. The boys dont know we get to stay here, which Marc and Justin will be very excited to hear. Ricardo is going to trick them into thinking we got some really crappy orders like North Dakota or something like that.. Couldnt he have tricked me?!?!

me- still plugging away at the college degree. currently taking Anthropology.. most boring class so far. actually working backwards at the moment taking the five general ed classes I needed then back to wrapping up the criminal justice classes.. volunteering at Ricky's school once or twice a week in the library. meals on wheels- waiting for my training session.. dont think it will be too hard taking meals to the elderly.. currently feeling I am way underpaid and underappreciated for what I do around this house... planning a few trips/getaways from life- but they just can't come soon enough!

That's all for now.. Stay tuned for the next post.. pics to follow of the attitudes with cuteness that live here..

Life's little lessons.. Virginia..and more.....

2009-08-30T12:23:00.000-07:00

Some days you just go through... very mundane day to day routine.. then there are others that just give you a wake up call or remind you of why you were created, why you are alive, and what your purpose is here or to just simply be grateful for what you have..period. My reasoning is to just be grateful!
You know sometimes it is really nice to have those reminders to somewhat bring you back to the simple non-materialistic ways of life.. something I think some of us all get caught up with from time to time... Over the summer I had a dream.. dream of moving back to the great capitol our United States... You know I went back to Northern Virginia not to long ago and it was wonderful. I got to see some old friends, family, beautiful scenery, the high life that includes nice cars and gorgeous homes... and then really had to really regroup after that trip... I would give everything to be back near the big city, near family, near friends, near the best schools in the country, BUT we would sacrifice.. I would probably have to go to work.. what is work outside of the home?????... living far away from Ricardo's job, and I am sure more. I am sure there is more adjustments that would be made, and we would adjust accordigly, BUT it is become a fact the the kids have adjusted well here and do NOT want to move.. As crazy as it sounds we have the opportunity to move back to Ohio where they absolutely LOVE but they do not want to be in a 2-A school.. LOL.. It is soo much more excitement to be in a school that is all about sports and winning.. something they can relate to and want to be associated with...
Marc and Justin will do everything they can to stay here until they graduate.. Its a tough battle for me because we have the perfect opportunity to move next year.. and could land some great orders.. BUT instead we have children! that do not want to move! that we are doing everything in our power to stay in the great state of Texas!.. even if it comes down to Ricardo taking a one yr assignment alone.. just to stay here... I hope they realize how much we love them!! If it were up to me alone we would pack up and move tomorrow.. Hey why not!! I am living vicariously through friends right now that are stationed in Hawaii, London, Berlin, and more... Another SAHM friend of mine are trying to visit our friends but so far we can manage to meet up once a year for our annual cruise meetup.. Our first meetup is this December! woo-hoo!!
Ok so getting to the reason of my actual posting.. I was in Walmart today around lunchtime buying items for our barbecue.. and witnessed the cashier manager going to talk to each cashier about different sales they had... Anyway when she got to my cashier she told her-- You know I am not trying to be snappy but I have been working my butt off here, then going to BAMC and spending 10hours there, then coming back to work... She must have had an accident in her family.. Not good.. But I felt for her and wanted to tell here but I was at a loss for words...
Next week though it is time for CHANGE!!!!! Since I am soo fortunate to have the TIME to give back that is what I must do.. while I am striving to get my degree on the side... My goal is 2-3 days a week volunteering, and 1-2 days school work.. I think that is a great start! Meals on wheels.. here I come! Then one other juvenile detention center which takes in kids who are actually remorseful-- still looking for that one~~ kids these days seem to think they can avoid the system... After doing my research I think there is no such group available!

Almost to forgot to add this blog.. one I check daily and for a good reasoning why it is such a great feeling to be alive each and every day!! It is alot of time to go back to when their crash happened.. but oh it is soooooo worth it!! That is a love story that is worth a book!!

http://nieniedialogues.blogspot.com/

Summer is almost over... and the way we spent out time..

2009-08-20T14:45:00.000-07:00

Only 3 more days until the boys go back to school.. It has been a real laid back summer so to speak.. No big summer trips as we have done in the past. I will say I have this feeling of letdown as you all know we usually take a nice family summer trip every year. This year it just seemed we had too many conflicts with Justin and Marc and their sports. I did not miss out on traveling that is for sure. I'll make sure that we get in one family trip outside of Texas next summer. After all we only have one more official summer until Marc graduates! Holy crap! Speaking of that.. The summer Marc graduates we are taking a cruise more than likely out of Puerto Rico with some old friends. Yes, this has already been confirmed!!! The wives are planning this. Of course family and other friends are invited. So mark your calendars for June 2011 if you want to attend a super awesome celebration!
Marc got his license so you know he was always out and about. His summer days were filled with hanging out with his buddies, baseball and more baseball, little bit of work, and of course cruising in his new ride. He is just loving his new mustang and even though he only has to pay for gas he has starting asking us for gas money.. Go figure! When we weren't so willing to fork over $$ for that he decided he should work a little more. Is it too much to ask to at least pay for gas?! The beauty of him finallly driving is running errands, taking his brothers places such as the movies, picking up from practice, you name it...
Justin has kept us going with his sports. He played for the rec league of Cibolo which ran into summer for their all stars.. He made the Cibolo Owls select baseball team, which is brand new. He has some really awesome coaches. While I can say this is not his true sport, I think is well-rounded athlete so the areas he is lacking he will pick up in no time.. He is now a freshman, meaning I have two boys in high school now.. Damn! He is playing football right now which has kept him super busy these last few weeks. I feel like I always said he is overlooked for his size, because he sure has the talent. This boys lives and breathes football! He says over and over again he will have a career in something sports related, and I have no doubt about that. Personally I can see in something with sports advertising/marketing. Maybe even a sports agent/lawyer. We will see in time what the future holds for him.
Ricky.. My little baby.. He has has the most laid back summer of all.. staying up late into the night.. sleeping until nearly lunch time. He and I went to Six Flags quite a bit early into the summer. We also went to the movies quite a bit, one of my favorites being G-Force. He has surely been anticipating the arrival of little Henry, Ricardo's sister Ameli's son. I have somewhat let him down by not letting him get the chance to meet him.. He will soon though.. I promised him! On this note Ricardo needs to start seriously traveling more so I can take advantage of those miles!~
Reasons why I am not looking forward to school are more due to ME.. This should be my final year in school.... After all I have perfected how to make going to college a career.. I should be in the phase of being able to double up on my classes so I can graduate next November.. I have run into backlog of funding issues.. The joys of playing the waiting game! The postive note is that I can finally use the GI Bill $$ and not have to take out any more student loans. I am feeling the push to hurry up and get a job. The family fails to realize that I am feeling a true protest coming on for when I actually do graduate... I will not be able to give the daily rides to school, the rides from school, the homeade meals made promptly by 5pm.. the rides up to school for items that were forgotten then need to be delivered asap or it will be a deducted grade, special lunches,the list is endless... Yeah you can say I feel soo under-appreciated and some days ready to forget my kids and get to work!!
Who would have ever thought I would be a stay at home mother. Not me!
Well Ricky and I were sure hoping things would pan out for finally getting to adopt our little girl. Things were just not meant to be and I don't really want to go into detail. I am still torn up about it but like I said... maybe it just wasn't meant to be... The good thing is my sister found out she is having a girl so I can spoil her, along with Steven's little girl and then send them back home.. That's about it for the update. I'll add pics this afternoon..

new toy..

2009-07-25T11:55:00.001-07:00

After reading reviews and shopping around for a nice dslr I have decided on the new Canon Rebel t1i... This camera is awesome!! Got the best deal on it through amazon.com so just have to wait for it to be shipped.. Can't wait!! This was a long overdue investment as I like to put it.. Have to justify the cost somehow! With the boys in all their activities I want to be able to get good quality pics and good action shots..

last of the pics...

2009-07-10T09:21:00.000-07:00

Getting pampered before the wedding..

lovely couple with parents of the bride... my parents of course!~

Scott, Steven, Anne and Abby.. and of course me!

Jackie and I.. friends since the 6th grade..

beautiful view.. taken from the Arlngton National Cemetery..

Enjoy!

more pics..

2009-07-10T09:02:00.001-07:00

Marc celebrated his 16th bday!

Justin celebrated his 14th bday!

Sara and Ari..

Norma and I...

Averi and I..

a few more to post...

oops.. long time no blog.. time for an update!

2009-07-10T07:10:00.000-07:00

I haven't kept up with this blog since May so I suppose I should update on the happenings in this crazy house! Since I last updated.. let's see..
The swine flu touched down here in our small city.. We made national news! hahaha.. The boys were out of school for almost two weeks. Ricardo went to Korea in May. I am hoping I can accompany him on one of his future visits there.
Ricardo and I went to a wine festival in Austin, which unfortunately got rained out. We had a great evening together anwyays, finding a new favorite restaurant.
The boys got out of school the first week of June. Justin and Ricky headed off to their camps; Justin to the University of Texas football camp and Ricky to Camp Cullen for a week. Marc had baseball all week.
I had the privilege to head off for almost two weeks to spend time with some wonderful friends and family. My sister got married June 22nd, part of my reason to travel. The wedding was beautiful! It was small and sweet just as her and Ryon wished. I am really happy for the two of them! I wish them both lots of happiness to last a lifetime. Maryann is expecting in December. Pretty exciting! I got to meet my little niece Abby, Steven and Anne's daughter. She's a real cuite and resembles Steven alot!
Ricardo celebrated his 36th bday.. What an old man! hahaha..
We've had lots of baseball games throughout the summer so far. Justin and Ricky had all-stars. Marc's league lasts throughout the summer. He plays on two teams right now so that keeps him busy. He starts back to work next week.
Big news- Marc got his licence on Wednesday. Ricardo was out of town so Marc happily took the truck cruising around town. We are car shopping this weekend.. Fun! Not sure exactly if this will be a car for Ricardo or Marc. He really wanted the truck- as it has the nice rims that he really likes.. We'll see..
Baby news- yep gotta add that in somwewhere. Adoption is still HEAVY on my mind as some of you know. I am still holding out some hope that god might bring a little princess into our lives.. This year would be nice! I am trying not to let it consume my thoughts, but that's hard to do sometimes.
more baby news- Ricardo's sister Ameli is nearing the end of her pregnancy. Little Henry Jackson will be here the beginning of August. We are all excited for her and Kevin. I believe they both will be awesome parents!
Ricardo and I took Ricky to the circus recently. It was the first time for Ricky and he's 10. Bad parents we are! LOL.. Every kid should go once in their life.
Summer trip- I am trying to come up with a little summer trip for the five of us. Thinking either the beach for a week- that would mean a road trip to maybe South Padre, Destin,Florida, or maybe Disney World. Of course I am looking into Mexico as the flights are very affordable right now.. We'll see! Need to make a decision quick as I am looking at the end of July/ first of August to travel.
My family reunion is quickly approaching. We are headed to OK next weekend. Looking for a good time at Lake Murray. That's about it for now. Hope you all are enjoying your summer! Pics will follow...

Wine Fest

Miami!

Maryann and Ryon- great looking husband and wife!

Ameli and Kevin.. expecting a boy in August.

Ricky at the circus!

drinking and driving

2009-05-07T22:03:00.001-07:00

Some sad news flashed on the tv screen yesterday morning. While we were sitting down for breakfast a picture of this lady appeared on the tv. The tv anchor announced she had been charged with manslaughter. I took a second look and realized it was somone we knew. It was one of our painters. The charge was initially intoxication assault and was upgraded last night to involuntary manslaughter as her husband had died wednesday night due to his injuries.
We had hired these painters whom I had met actually last summer but waited until last month to actually have the work done. The job was a little more drawn out than we thought but the end result was outstanding. This husband and wife team really did quality work. They brought their girls over one weekend when they came to paint. They were both very respectful and polite. While this couple werent some of our closest friends we had some great conversations over the course they were at our house.
The husband's (who died) father is a retired colonel in the Air Force and is very repected individual in San Antonio, volunteering much of his free time to Habitat for Humanity. His father had just won a big teaching award here in San Antonio. Louis has mentioned all this to me as he really admired his father. He and his wife were the ones who took care of any military people that wanted their service, rather than sending out any of their hired help.
This suddent tragedy was just a huge eye opener that it is really not worth it to think you are ok to get in a car and drive home after having one too many drinks. This family is forever changed because of lack of better judgement. These girls have really lost both the mother and their father as the mom will be in jail for a good while and rightfully so. I am sure in her sobering moments these days she is sitting there with regret, wishing she had not been behind that wheel. I'll speak for myself that I have driven on occassion after nights out on the town. It is just NOT worth the risk of losing your life or taking another's life. I don't ever want to be in this family's shoes!

proud momma

2009-04-11T22:16:00.000-07:00

Marc is turning into a fine young man.. soo very proud of him.. Wanted to post a few pics of him playing baseball.. Of course everyone knows this is baseball season.. So here's the story. Marc has been in baseball class since the beginning of school. He narrowed it down to the one sport he truly loves and has focused on that. He was so excited for the season to get going. Ok fast forward to the season starting. Coaches decided they would not be cutting anyone and instead making 3 jv teams.. A, B, and C. The C team is a new thing- more of a freshman team. The season has been going since February and it has been frustrating to say the least. The coach for the B and C team is just horrible! Marc was/is on the B and C team.. The boys have not played so well together. Alot of it has to do with not practicing together like they should be. Marc was at one point thinking about quitting. That was tough to hear since he loves this sport so much, but that decision was entirely up to him. Ok so some of his best friends who made the A team kept telling him to just show up for practice. Marc felt weird about that. Finally last week he just started showing up for the A teams practice. The coach never said anything about Marc being there. So come game day the coach starts counting heads and Marc said he was quite nervous about what the coach would say. Not too sure about this coach here! The A team is very good by the way. Marc did outstanding at all the A practices that he showed up to and coach pointed out that they needed Garcia for the game.. Yeah! I know Marc was very happy about that.. He did great in the games.. I think the coach made a big mistake from the beginning putting Marc on the wrong team-- but in the end his efforts and determination really paid off!! Way to go!

Got Rocks??

2009-04-10T11:12:00.000-07:00

Here is a great blog I found and fits my moods right now and needing to see things in a positive way.. I have read similar article on seeing your life as half empty versus half full.. Good message..

I have to share this story...I read it recently in my "Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World" book and found it online to share because I think it is so applicable to all of us and every situation or "rock" in our life.

One day an expert in time management was speaking to a group of business students and, to drive home a point, used an illustration those students will never forget. As he stood in front of the group of high powered overachievers he said, "Okay, time for a quiz." Then he pulled out a one-gallon, wide-mouthed Mason jar and set it on the table in front of him. Then he produced about a dozen fist-sized rocks and carefully placed them, one at a time, into the jar. When the jar was filled to the top and no more rocks would fit inside, he asked, "Is this jar full?"

Everyone in the class said, "Yes."

Then he said, "Really?" He reached under the table and pulled out a bucket of gravel. Then he dumped some gravel in and shook the jar causing pieces of gravel to work themselves down into the space between the big rocks. Then he asked the group once more, "Is the jar full?" By this time the class was on to him. "Probably not," one of them answered. "Good!" he replied. He reached under the table and brought out a bucket of sand. He started dumping the sand in the jar and it went into all of the spaces left between the rocks and the gravel. Once more he asked the question, "Is this jar full?"

"No!" the class shouted.

Once again he said, "Good." Then he grabbed a pitcher of water and began to pour it in until the jar was filled to the brim. Then he looked at the class and asked, "What is the point of this illustration?" One eager beaver raised his hand and said, "The point is, no matter how full your schedule is, if you try really hard you can always fit some more things in it!"

"No," the speaker replied, "That's not the point. The truth this illustration teaches us is: If you don't put the big rocks in first, you'll never get them in at all." What are the 'big rocks' in your life? Your children; Your loved ones; Your education; Your dreams; A worthy cause; Teaching or mentoring others; Doing things that you love; Time for yourself; Your health; Your significant other? Remember to put these BIG ROCKS in first or you'll never get them in at all. If you sweat the little stuff (the gravel, the sand) then you'll fill your life with little things you worry about that don't really matter, and you'll never have the real quality time you need to spend on the big, important stuff (the big rocks). So, tonight, or in the morning, when you are reflecting on this short story, ask yourself this question: What are the 'big rocks' in my life? Then, put those in your jar first."

Posted by Stephen C. Ehrmann to the POD listserv, August 21, 2000, Ehrmann@tltgroup.org

TLC 11/00 http://www.csub.edu/TLC/options/resources/handouts/teach_strat/putinrocks.html

Like the blogger who posted this, I constantly dwell on the little stuff, some things beyond my control (gravel, sand) and want to put more emphasis on the big stuff- my rocks. (family, friends, school)

Trips for the year, update.

2009-03-25T20:48:00.000-07:00

Ok I just posted this to someone but just in case anyone might be interested in coming along- please do!! The more the merrier! Ricardo is perfectly happy with just one trip a year- which in his mind was the cruise in December (this year 2009).. He had NO complaints when I booked the next one while we were on the last one! Sooo anyways everyone knows a small trip here and there throughout the year and I am a happy camper!

So this is the 1st definite in case you guys want to join up.. The plan is to stay at the carribbean beach resort- we have 2rooms boooked... room for 2 to stay with us and 1more room booked at 40% off if you are interested..

2nd trip- cruise.. Yeah!!! December 13-20.. Sails out of Galveston and goes to Key West, Fl, Freeport and Nassau, Bahamas.. Got my excursions already picked out!! The kids and I.. and of course Ricardo are seriously looking forward to this annual trip.. I always hated pulling the kids out of school when they already get soo many days off.. but this trip sold me.. Why pay more for the same trip that will be happening the following week for double the price! Thankfully my kids make good grades otherwise I would NOT consider doing this. On top of the fact that one of my good friends and her family are committed to coming on the trip makes it even better.. Believe me- if you go not knowing a sole- its easy to come home having made lots of friends but it's just great already going with peeps you know!

Ok... sooo a small update on the boys... After all this is what this site was meant for right?! ALL boys are in baseball as of now.. Marc plays for his school and Justin and Ricky play for our city teams.. Between all three our days off are Sundays... Its ok with me though because I love the game of baseball.. I am sure to write about the goods and bads about the sport in my own blog.. When I get it up and running I'll let you know...

As you all can figure out that Marc is soon approaching age 16~ Yikes! Another milestone...

Ricky is still in acting and is really enjoying his class, though the session seems very short. With only having the class once a week I am sure the final performace April 18th will be small. Nevertheless, Ricky is happy to know 3/4ths of his lines already.

Spring Break 2009. Six Flags

Adding a new blog

2009-03-25T20:35:00.000-07:00

Ok I was thinking about adding a new site, one for just ME.. I have alot on my mind ALL the time and like to write it all down.. So this new site will just be about my thoughts in a variety of topics.. It could range from my everyday feelings, which get deep.. as you should know, being a stay at home mother- (with all the kids in school I have ALOT of time to think) to politics, which I also enjoy a good debate from time to time.. I am still keeping this site for updates on the kids, family, etc... I made a calendar tonight.. I had several goals for the year. I had great intentions but I must say things went downhill. and fast! I say it's not too late to get back on track.. let people know whats going on over here.. and if you should desire a womans perspective on living with a house full of boys-- click on my site!

inspiring blog site..

2009-03-24T21:33:00.000-07:00

this person is remarkable.
when you have time go back to the beginning and read the whole story..
I promise and updated blog soon.. real soon! Yes I am way overdue..

http://nieniedialogues.blogspot.com/

2009-02-15T22:57:00.000-08:00

Our cheers to the cruise..

Before our elegant dinner for all you can eat lobster- one of the selling points for me on this cruise!!!!!!!

Ricardo,Marc and Justin at dinner.. We had three lobster tails each. Next year we will try and save room for more...

Justin and Marc at Margaritaville

The boys at the market.. We have NO plans to go back there next year.. We won't be going there anwyays but still.... they were HOUNDS! Still we can say we've been there done that. I will go back to Jamaica again..just not to the market.. Doc's cave beach was great!

wow an update!!

2009-02-15T22:03:00.000-08:00

Ok ALOT has happened since my last real posting.. Let's see Ricardo came home and had alot of time to readjust with his family.. We went on a cruise and it turned out to be one of our best vacations ever! As a matter of fact it was soo much fun that I booked the next one. We are choosing to sail again December 13th out of Galveston and it goes to the Bahamas this time, to anyone who is interested in joining us. My brother's fiance had a little girl in November.. They named her Abby Kay and she is the cutest thing!! I will get to Virginia by this coming summer to meet her in person.. Ricardo's sister Ameli found out she is expecting in August. What a shock that was but a great one nonetheless! We are all anxious for this upcoming arrival. The boys are doing great.. As with having multiple kids, some days are better than others. I long for vacations- almost daily... Some wonder what I do all day and tend to think I get a break daily.. I have to laugh at those comments though I do feel a bit lucky not to have to answer to anyone on what I am doing at any given moment. I might have to speak my mind and tell them to kiss my a$&! Ahh such is life.. I am in school full time and loving it.. Each class is five weeks long and what I would call intense. Nevertheless, I have enjoyed all my classes in the criminal justice field and am looking forward to using all the knowledge I have gained in this field upon graduating next year. As I mentioned all the boys are doing well, making good grades, etc.. If we could only get their attitudes in check at home life would be GRAND!!! Marc is doing well- sophmore, almost straight A's and plays baseball for the school. Justin is doing well also, almost straight A's and is currently playing basketball for his school. His team has done outstanding. He also plays for the base on the side- which means alot of extra driving for mom and dad.. Oh well- its for a good cause.. Ricky is doing great in school- A/B student. He is enjoying his acting class once a week downtown. He is signed up for baseball. Hope that goes over well this season. He is finishing up his basketball season with one more game left. He sure would love to play soccer as well, but mom and dad made him pick just one sport this season.. Having three kids we need to give them limits here! Ricardo finally is managing a program I think he really likes. He'll be traveling to MD/VA quite a bit. I am happy about that as he is accumulating lots of miles/hotels points which I will be using of course... Hey-someone has to put them to good use!!!
Ok guess that about wraps it up for this update.. Next one I will post some pics!

Back to blogging!

2009-01-06T20:29:00.000-08:00

Ok I am getting back to maintaining this site and keeping everyone updated on the happening's in the Crazy Garcia Household. So be watching out for a nice lengthy blog tomorrrow!

Reunited and it feels soo good!

2008-11-22T11:53:00.000-08:00

I am happy to report that Ricardo made it home safe and sound.... Finally!
He had several delays in his trip and didnt arrive until 2am.. about 12hours behind schedule. I guess that's not too bad. After arriving home around 3am we had a late snack from Taco Cabana then Dad/Ricardo showed us some of his cool souvenirs he brought home and just enjoyed being back home.. I'll post more when I get the chance. Take care!

Taken at 2am.. that should explain the faces my kids had. They had fallen asleep waiting to hear word that his plane was actually coming in after many delays.. They were excited once they saw dad!

5 more hours!

2008-11-21T16:36:00.000-08:00

Time is moving very slowly it seems.. Ricardo left a message at 2am that he had to spend the night in Manas and was hoping to leave there shortly. I finally spoke with him this afternoon as he landed at BWI..(Baltimore) So happy he's back in the U.S.A! Now we are playing the waiting game here.
Marc and Justin are off to the high school football game this evening. It's a very big game for Steele. I think our high school is the up and coming team in our area. No kidding! Lots of good writeups on our school and the sports programs in it's three years of being open. Anyways we are playing a school from Austin who won state last year so it will be a tough game till the end I think.. Ricky is getting ready to watch his WWE.. He is very big into wrestling!

Well thanks everyone who kept our family in your thoughts and prayers.. We are a very blessed family! I'll post again next week with family pics..

2 MORE DAYS!

2008-11-19T12:03:00.000-08:00

We are soo excited that we will be together again. Some days it just felt that the end was soo far away. Now that we are reaching the end of the deployment I can say we made it through and would be able to handle this again should that happen. Crossing my fingers that we can hide from having to deploy again anytime soon, if at all! I am glad that I blogged this whole experience. I don't know how some spouses handle frequent deployments, but it's part of the job and we all have to be prepared for it somehow.
Probably the most challenging thing was driving the kids everywhere they needed to be. Having three boys who had something going on all the time and only one driver caused for some crazy times. I had to make friends really quick when sports started up in August. Ricky is looking forward to taking a bike ride with his dad. Justin is wanting Ricardo to take him golfing, which I am sure all the boys would like to do. I am looking forward to them clinging to dad for a bit and catching a break.. 24 days until we set sail. woo-hoo!!
So here's to anxiously waiting for Friday afternoon to come!
Take care everyone!

16 more days!

2008-11-05T08:35:00.000-08:00

I guess it's time for an update. We have had a calendar full of activities since my last posting. From birthday parties, chauferring the kids to and from practices, games, Marc's work, visitors for my birthday, school, breaking up daily arguments, Halloween, to prepping for Ricardo to FINALLY come home have kept us going non-stop.. I am sure to have forgotten something on that list!
Now for the election. This is something that has glued me to the news and becoming more aware of the position that each candidate took on the important issues. I was torn on who to vote for as I agreed with about 50% of McCain's views and 50% of Obamas views. In the end my vote went to McCain, even though I knew it would be a long shot if he would actually win. Given Barak's position on the war, I just couldn't give him my vote. He does, however, have some very good ideas when it comes to trying to fix the economy, education reform, and some very other important issues. Not to mention, he is one heck of a speaker! We should all be blessed to live in America where we have a voice and are able to exercise our rights in the way we did yesterday- whether it was the outcome you wanted or not..
16more days until Ricardo comes home! It has been the long six months. I will be crying tears of happiness come that day.. We already have that day planned out. Ricardo has requested some Dos Equis with Lime- chilled for him, and a nice family dinner at Texas Roadhouse! No problems honoring that request!
Take care everyone.. GOD BLESS THE USA!

pumpkin carving

pumpkin carving

pumpkin carving

drinking "wedding cake" with my mom and aunt.

birthday lunch

Ricardo.....

2008-10-14T22:05:00.000-07:00

has some competition!! Just kidding! He really suprised me tonight.. I have always had a love for spanish music, ecpecially Luis Miguel. He sings so beautifully and his songs are SOOOO romantic!!! I received a phone call on Friday from one of Ricardo's co-workers here in SA. He had told me that he had some tickets to a wine tasting for him and his girlfriend. He was going out of town for work and wanted to know if I wanted to go with his girlfriend. Of course I said yes- that sounded like fun. Well long story short- the girlfriend shows up at my house tonight. Marc then gives me a note written from Ricardo.. In the note he expresses his love for me and that he wanted to do something special for me.. AAWWWWW! He thought I would enjoy the concert more than the wine tasting. So he got me two FLOOR tickets to see Luis Miguel.. Man what a show it was! Tu eres mi corazon mi amor- my husband is wonderful!

Reading my "love note" from Ricardo

So happy with my surprise!

So dreamy!

46 more days...

2008-09-29T17:59:00.000-07:00

until Ricardo can leave Afghanistan. woo-hooo!!
He was going to stay a few extra weeks which would put him coming home the first week of December. A little extra money is what we were thinking when considering that option. We have just come to miss being around each other, him missing certain memorable events in the boys lives, etc... Those are things you just can't get back. So putting an extra a few extra $$ doesnt amount to the time lost with family, holidays missed, which he would be missing Thanksgiving if he stayed. I have realized many times including this time what a great husband and father Ricardo is. More importantly what a great supporting family that we both have. We would not be who we are and where we are without them! Thank you!!!!
I know he has been working his butt off over there and when I have talked with him lately it's quite obvious that he is ready to come home. We are more than ready to have him home at this point! Working practically seven days a week since he got there in May can wear you down I am sure..
So here's to 46 more days until he can celebrate his homecoming... 75 more days until we can celebrate (aboard the Carnival Conquest) being together again and Ricardo obtaining his masters/while working full-time and going to school full-time... Anything is possible!

Celebrate good times come on!

2008-09-19T12:21:00.001-07:00

Counting down the days until Ricardo will be home again. He has 56 days until he can leave Afghanistan. woo-hoo!
We will soon be together again. So to celebrate that on top of a big accomplishment in Ricardo's life, which is earning his masters degree, we are taking a nice family vacation December 14-21. The boys and I are VERY excited. The ship stops in Cozumel, Montego Bay and the Grand Cayman Islands.
This trip would not have been possible if not for the sacrifice of Ricardo being deployed for six months, so for that I am thankful!

The Circle of Life

2008-09-19T07:37:00.000-07:00

I found this posting on another blog and thought the message was soo great I wanted to share it. I am taking a psychology class right now where we are picking apart old and new rules of life, seeing which ones we identify with the most, reflecting on that, as we write the story of our life so far. This is a great rule in life- The Cirle of Life...

Soren Kierkegaard said, “God has given each of us our "marching orders'. Our purpose here on Earth is to find those orders and carry them out. Those orders acknowledge our special gifts.” It is important to know that each of us is a unique individual and that we each have our own reason for being here. It is easy to get lost in the endless sea of competition and conformity to feel like a number of just another spoke in the wheel. We are each searching for some message that reveals our purpose and sets us on the right course that gives our life meaning. However, you already have it with you. Your purpose is inside of you. You have to learn to listen to your inner voice, the one that gives you gut feelings and little hints all throughout your life. It is when you finally listen to that voice that you will discover why you are here. It may surprise you to discover that you are in control of your life to a much greater extent than you ever imagined. Frank Clark said, “Everyone is trying to accomplish something big, not realizing that life is made up of little things.” There are so many things that you have already accomplished that you have not given yourself enough credit for. George Eliot said, “The golden moments in the stream of life rush past us, and we see nothing but sand; the angels come to visit us, and we only know them when they are gone.”

It is usually through reflection that we see the good that we have done. What we focus on is what we get, so do not spend a lot of time in the past. Just learn from your past and move on. You cannot change it. If you feel that you have done someone wrong in the past, find them and apologize. You cannot change what happened, but you can at least let it go. I have found that by apologizing for a past event, the person I thought I had injured did not even remember what I was talking about. The only person I had hurt over all that time was me. Let things go and move on. The thing that makes or breaks us is our mindset. Coach Vincent Lombardi said, “The good Lord gave you a body that can stand most anything. It's your mind you have to convince.” We learn to live in the future or the past in either thought or memory, but life is here in the present. If you do not live in the present moment, you are missing out on the very essence of life. Learning to enjoy the here and now will allow you to fill your memory banks up with wonderful memories because you will be fully aware of what is going on around you. Too often we are on autopilot and miss all of the things that surround us. You have to notice the order of life and the opportunities that are always present.

I thought the movie, “The Lion King,” was a good representation of the struggles and the lessons in life. In fact, the song, “Circle of Life,” by Elton John really summarizes well that we are all connected and that each of us must find our own path. Read the lyrics.

Circle of Life (by Elton John)

From the day we arrive on the planet
And blinking, step into the sun
There's more to be seen than can ever be seen
More to do than can ever be done

Some say eat or be eaten
Some say live and let live
But all are agreed as they join the stampede
You should never take more than you give

In the circle of life
It's the wheel of fortune
It's the leap of faith
It's the band of hope
Till we find our place
On the path unwinding
In the circle, the circle of life

Some of us fall by the wayside
And some of us soar to the stars
And some of us sail through our troubles
And some have to live with the scars

There's far too much to take in here
More to find than can ever be found
But the sun rolling high through the sapphire sky
Keeps great and small on the endless round

In the circle of life
It's the wheel of fortune
It's the leap of faith
It's the band of hope
Till we find our place
On the path unwinding
In the circle, the circle of life

Because of free will, we do have the opportunity to soar…or we can allow ourselves to fall by the wayside. You have the choice to be whatever you want. The power is within you…so set your dreams and goals well. Denis Waitley said, “Goals provide the energy source that powers our lives. One of the best ways we can get the most from the energy we have is to focus it. That is what goals can do for us; concentrate our energy.” Focusing your thoughts, words and actions towards making your dreams come true, attract people and circumstances into your life so that you can accomplish your dreams. Thomas Huxley said, “The great end of life is not knowledge but action.” You can dream about where you want to be, but you must take action towards making your dreams come true. You slowly become aware of what you need to do as you focus on where you want to be. By listening to your inner self, you will discover a guide that will lead you to your chosen purpose. M. Scott Peck said, “The great awareness comes slowly, piece by piece. The path of spiritual growth is a path of lifelong learning. The experience of spiritual power is basically a joyful one.” The more you discover your inner voice, the more spiritual you will feel. You are connecting to your soul. It may sound esoteric, but it is really one of the greatest lessons you will ever learn. Start listening to your own wants and needs and follow your own way. David McKay said, “Find a purpose in life so big it will challenge every capacity to be at your best.” You will find your place on the path unwinding and will discover your own circle of life.

Back to school!!

2008-08-25T07:20:00.000-07:00

I never thought this day would get here! We had a long summer. We all stayed fairly busy. Some of the highlights were the various camps the boys attended, family reunion, going out on Aunt Robbie's boat several times and tubing on the lakes, Six Flags numerous times, the boys staying up super late and sleeping until lunch, Natural Bridge Wildlife Safari and much more. One of my own highlights was going to Mexico with my favorite girls from NY/NJ. It was a nice little getaway for myself. The last few weeks I have been more than ready to send the boys back to school- as our activities slowed down that gave them too much time to aggravate one another. So it was with great happiness that this day finally came. The boys were excited to get back to school, see their old friends,etc.. Heres a few pics of the kids on their first day.

Ricky's now in the 4th grade

Ricky

Justin's now in the 8th grade

Marc's now in the 10th grade

Highlights of this week

2008-08-10T08:34:00.000-07:00

Stayed busy this week which is not a bad thing.
Heres some of the highlights....
Justin had football camp this week at the high school. He had a great time and is ready to start trying out for his school.
Ricky started his football practice this week. He had practiced Monday-Friday. We were all dying- parents included, having to be out in the 100 degree weather for 2hours.
Took Ricky roller skating. We have not been since we moved from Ohio. We used to go ALL the time there.
Took the boys to Americas Incredible Pizza Company- fabulous place but a little pricey. The last time I went there with Ricky the tab was picked up by the family service center.
Registered Justin for school.
Justin had a four game basketball tournament Saturday at Trinity University here in SA.. He played well, especially his last game. Of course that had to be the game I had to miss.
Marc worked all week except for yesterday as he needed the night off to attend a friends quincenera. He told me afterwards that alot of tejano music was played. I think he was expecting more top 40/hip hop,etc.. He had a good time overall.
The boys had their share of fights this week- reminding me how I am thankful that school is right around the corner.. woohoo!!

Ricky at the roller skating rink

Glow in the dark mini bowling.. The boys loved this!

Ricky on the go-kart track

Justin and Marc racing motorcycles

Marc

Passing time.....

2008-08-02T16:22:00.000-07:00

This weekend so far has dragged on ever so slowly.. I intended on taking the boys to the wildlife safari this morning but was informed Justin had basketball practice at 10am so I postponed that outing until Monday. Did some re-arranging in the garage and went through all the junk in my bedroom in the hopes of getting rid of all the things I dont need. I want to be as simple and clean as possible. Feels like I am going through this process all the time in the boys room.
So after I passed the time doing not so fun stuff did some searching for places and activities for next years family reunion. I think I got carried away!
I had too much today to "think" Think about missing Ricardo, think about all the things the boys are missing doing with their daddy. Justin said to me he really misses playing catch with Ricardo, the other two similar things..
On a postiive note I am little more secure with Ricardo's safety. I have started back to being informed on the news. Lets face it- you cant escape the news/media no matter how hard you try.
I wanted to share some good news about a military benefit that recently passed. Money for the GI Bill that is unused from the service member can go towards the spouse and/or dependents college education. It wont be effective until March 09 I believe. With me going to school (possibly as my career! hahaha) and Marc going off to school in three years this is wonderful news.
Going tomorrow with the boys and some of their friends to float on the Comal River. Should be lots of fun. I have been informed of how extremely cold the water is, but it seems to me with temps of the high 90's the water should feel pretty good. We'll see!
Four more months then life will be back to normal.. I cant wait!!

The Last Lecture

2008-07-30T09:09:00.000-07:00

There was special last night on Primetime that I was only able to catch a few minutes of as I had to go pick up Marc.
Here's the link to Randy Pausch's book. On the website there are clips from his last lecture, excerpts from his book. I will be reading this next!

This was on his wesbite:

On September 18, 2007, computer science professor Randy Pausch stepped in front of an audience of 400 people at Carnegie Mellon University to deliver a last lecture called “Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams.” With slides of his CT scans beaming out to the audience, Randy told his audience about the cancer that is devouring his pancreas and that will claim his life in a matter of months. On the stage that day, Randy was youthful, energetic, handsome, often cheerfully, darkly funny. He seemed invincible. But this was a brief moment, as he himself acknowledged.
Randy’s lecture has become a phenomenon, as has the book he wrote based on the same principles, celebrating the dreams we all strive to make realities. Sadly, Randy lost his battle to pancreatic cancer on July 25th, 2008, but his legacy will continue to inspire us all, for generations to come.

:: CLOSE

http://www.thelastlecture.com/

America's Got Talent....

2008-07-29T20:32:00.000-07:00

That was on tv this evening as I was cleaning up from dinner. The last contestant was an spc. in the army who had just came back from serving 15months in Iraq.. He gave a little background story and it triggered the sad feelings that I am trying really hard to escape me right now.. Been :( since that.. I am definitely trying REALLY hard to focus on the positives that will come from all this but sometimes its just easier said that done.. Lissa said on her blog EXACTLY how I feel all the time. Yes-Staying busy does help in some regard but all it takes is something so small that just sucks all the happiness out of you and you are just left feeling so sad and alone without your spouse. I sometimes wish that time would just travel like the speed of light to get me through until December.. In saying all of these sad thoughts I am feeling- I know it was Ricardo's time to go over there and serve his dues.
On a happier note I went to a luncheon this past Saturday that was for the deployed families. It was put on by the family service center at Brooks City Base. I arrived a bit late as I had some issues signing Ricky up for football. Anyhow once I got there I had a wonderful time. It was held at a family fun center that was a combo of Mr Gattis and a Malibu Grand Prix. Of course all the kids who came had a wonderful time. I was able to meet a few people. There were quite a few military members and their families there that came simply to show support and offer up any help possible.. There is alot of assistance out there if needed and its definitely great to feel that you/I am not alone in that regard.

School is starting back up in less than a month. It seems we have a full calendar until then-with football practice mon-fri starting next week. I am crossing my fingers that Marc will not have to work the last weekend before school starts back as I would have the chance to take them to Corpus for a few days.

Got Ricky all signed up for football and let me tell you he is really pumped up this year about playing tackle! The league I originally wanted to sign him up at close to our house had a long waiting list so I went to the next city over.. So far I can say that I am glad I did that. The league he is in went to state last year- not to mention Converse Bucaneers are all about football.. I am sure Ricky will learn alot about the game this season. Had to go pick up all his equipment this evening and what nice people they have running the league! My first impression was definitely a good one.

That's about it for this post!

The boys had built a fort in Ricky's room the other day

Ricky in his practice gear and ready for football!

Taken on a recent visit to the Alamo..

101 random facts

2008-07-28T07:50:00.000-07:00

I saw this on other people's blogs that I like to read and wanted to join in..
101 random facts about me

1. Enjoy cooking and trying new recipes
2. Love to travel
3. Love my kids- minus their honery backtalking moments
4. Love my husband- miss him dearly!
5. Enjoy grocery shopping- but annoyed with the commissary on paydays when they jack up the prices on staple items.
6. Love the beach
7. Love going to NYC.
8. Think it would be awesome to get orders there- Ricardo working at the recruiting office in Times Sqaure- just for a year or two..
9. Love having a clean house
10. Enjoy getting manicures/pedicures.
11. Wishing it were December already- so Ricardo would be home!
12. Wishing I knew what I wanted to do- college/career wise.
13. Don't want to take speech class.
14. Hoping my kids go onto college and be successful and happy.
15. Having strange dreams lately.
16. Wanting and needing to get back to running- to lose weight and relieve stress.
17. Can't stand the sight of blood.
18. Enjoy going to Texas Roadhouse for a nice juicy steak.
19. Enjoy taking the boys to Six Flags
20. Love going to Disney World and would love to become DVC members.
21. Love going to Mexico
22. Missing places that have four seasons.
23. Love to Ski- Don't get to do much since we live in TX!
24. Grateful for being a SAHM
25. HATE to have to defend that job title- as if I am sitting on the couch eating ice cream all day!
26. VERY indecisive!
27. Found a new love for reading memoirs.
28. Reading a good one right now- Escape- about a lady who grew up in the Polygamist lifestyle and escaped it.
29. Missing all my closest friends in VA, NY/NJ and Ohio.
30. Looking forward to Mel's visit in a few weeks!
31. Newsjunkie
32. Watch the Today Show every day
33. Wishing things weren't so violent right now in Afghanistan. makes me worry soo much
34. Missing Ricardo
35. Make alot of to-do lists
36. Needing to get a mani/pedi
37. Want a boat- loved taking the boys out last week on the lake- tubing and just all around fun!
38. Thankful that Marc is on the right path to be successful in life.
39. Loving my house and the upgrades that have been done so far- even though I was very happy without them.
40. "Fashionably" late at times. Need to work on that.
41. Traffic stresses me out- don't know how I made it driving in NOVA all those years.
42. Wishing the gas would go back down to something reasonable
43. Watched the movie Rush Hour 1,2 and 3 a zillion times now.
44. Like trying recipes- especially the ones from Pioneer Woman Cooks.. Not the most health conscious ones, but they are soo tasty!
45. Love the holidays
46. Love to decorate- especially for Christmas.
47. Trying to work on being less judgemental- lord knows I dont like people to judge me.
48. Interesting debates going on with this coming presidential election.
49. Need to devote some time soon to picking a place for next years reunion.
50. Love to fly- wish I could more often
51. Wishing I had better skin- having to use alot of different creams/oils to make my skin more smooth can be a pain at times.
52. Needing to go get my refills today.
53. Thankful for my daily phone calls from Ricardo
54. Working on not keeping my emotions bottled up.. I am not a pretty site when they come out..
55. Think (worry) about what life will be like after the military.
56. Not sure I want to live in TX for the rest of my life.
57. Wishing we could have been stationed overseas
58. Would love to travel to Germany
59. The idea of taking an rv trip with Ricardo and the boys seems kinda fun and adventurous.
60. Hoping this idea of a cruise upon Ricardo's return will work itself out.
61. Needing to de-clutter- feel like I do that often.
62. Not looking forward to all the driving back and forth I will be doing this month- with football practice,taking Marc to and from work,etc..
63. Pay my bills on-time..
64. Gotten alot better about NOT buying things- just because.
65. Enjoy going to watch the Houston Astros. Havent gone to that many this season.
66. Needing to work on getting Marc's drivers permit this week.
67. Have a little anxiety about alot of things in life right now.
68. Like to shop at Lerner NYand CO
69. Baby Ricky too much- and he is growing out of that :(
70. Have a BIG dream still of adopting a little girl.. One day!
71. Enjoy reading other people's blogs.
72. Cant wait for the show Apprentice to return.
73. Love taking pictures.
74. Wanting a better camera- with a big lens attachment
75. Dont like having a home telephone- too many telemarketing calls!
76. Working on sending cards and bday gifts out in a more timely fashion. Better late than never right?
77. Trying to work a little weekend trip for me and the boys to Corpus before school starts.
78. Wanting to buy Rosetta Stone- so the boys and I can learn some spanish
79. Thinking of more facts for this- getting hard!
80. Love music
81. Contemplating getting enhancements for a long time now. I come up with a million other ways to spend that $$ on though.
82. Enjoy my peaceful summer mornings- when the boys are asleep.
83. Dwell on the negatives way too much!
84. Wanting to volunteer somewhere- this coming fall.
85. Grateful for my kids good health.
86. Grateful for my life and all that we have and have been given over the years
87. Enjoy taking the boys to Chuckecheese about once a month..
88. Wanting Linda to come visit soon so she can "help" me make the curtains/cornice boards.
89. Have a fear of guns- and never want to own one.
90. Can't stand for the kids to wrestle- as it always leads to real fights.
91. Love going to Comedy Clubs- havent been lately.
92. People who make racist remarks really bother me. Don't understand such ignorance.
93. Needing this to be over- laundry and other such household chores are calling my name.
94. Needing to keep myself busy right now.
95. Dont function too well having too much downtime- tend to get sad and moody with Ricardo being gone.
96. Like to rearrange my room or other rooms in the house.. Gets too boring having things the same way for soo long.
97. Do not like scary movies
98. Wanting to go to Virginia and visit friend and family- next summer ok!
99. Really enjoy psychology.
100. Need to register for fall classes- and pay for them- yuck!
101. This was fun- glad it's over though. Now onto housework- then fun.

Updating from Dallas

2008-07-24T07:13:00.000-07:00

Been awhile since I have posted. The boys and I have been a little busy since my last posting on the 12th. The boys enjoyed their 5day visit from Godefrey- or Louis as we called him, who lives in France. We took him to Six Flags, the alamo, riverwalk, and of course they hung out at the house playing hours and hours of video games it seemed.
Then we went to Oklahoma for my family reunion. It was quite small this year but we made the best of it. The boys enjoyed going out on my cousins boat along with hanging out with their cousins who they only see once a year. The kids played games of tennis in the wee hours- while us adults watched them play from a distance while catching up on each others lives, and had some very interesting debates- over a few beers and other drinks of course! We all have decided to move the reunion back to Texas so we are scouting for new locations right now.
Sunday I dropped Marc off at his camp, which turned into a comedy of errors that day. I'll post about that later.
Monday we went out on Lake Grapevine on my aunt's boat with the boys and my mom. The boys had tons of fun that day and all the tubing they got to do.
Tuesday we went to Six Flags. Ricky braved it and rode all the rides/roller coasters that he was tall enough for. Didnt make it to the two really scary roller coasters. We may go back on Friday for a few hours once we pick up Marc.
Wednesday we went to Six Flags Hurricane Harbor- the waterpark. Very nice park! Lots and lots of rides. The boys had alot of fun- and had their moments too! They rode almost everything. The was a ride Ricky begged me to go on with him. Well I am now regretting it as once of the things you had to do was put your chin down when going down the first hill. Didnt do that step and I am paying the price now.. I think I got whiplash.
Today the boys want to go on my aunts boat again so we will do that around lunchtime. I will have to pass on tubing :( My neck is pretty sore..
The tile job that was started while I was in Mexico should be complete when I return home on Friday. It will be nice to get my house back in order and be able to cook real meals once again. Been eating sandwiches and fast food WAY too much since the job started. Even the boys have said they are sick of mcd's and other fast food places.
Marc is enjoying his baseball camp. I am heading out in a few minutes to catch one of his practices.
Much much more I want to post but I will save it for when I am back home this weekend. My next post will include pics. I have taken quite a few!

Six Flags

2008-07-12T09:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I took the boys to Six Flags. Justin and Marc each brought a friend. As I was getting things ready to go Marc says he is not going after all. I knew that would happen. He just wanted to stay home and chill as he said he is not much into rides.. Well I really gave him NO choice. So he calls a friend to come along with him. Well after the day was over he told me how much fun he had and he rode all the roller coasters except for one.. Big accomplishment for him! We all had a great time..

Group pic

Ricky- ready for the waterpark

Ricky and I with Flash

The past few days

2008-07-11T08:22:00.000-07:00

Wednesday was a little emotional.. I was dwelling so much on the bad things going on over in Afghanistan. All I could think about was Ricardo and his safety or the lack of it in my point of view. Other little things were going on at home that I had to deal with. Got an outrageous phone bill and had to call customer service. The poor guy on the other end really got an earful from me.
I am lucky that Ricardo is able to call me almost daily and he reassures me that he is ok and the base is doing everything possible to keep our men and women safe over there. I don't know what I would do not being able to talk with him on a constant basis.
I just have to remind myself that so many people are keeping Ricardo and my family in their thoughts and prayers every day and that he will come home to us safe and sound. Four more (long) months of this!
So after ALL day of being sad, mad,etc.. I decided I just had to change my mood and go somewhere that the boys like and have fun for a little bit.. Marc had to work that evening so Justin, Ricky and I went to Chuckecheese to play some games and have pizza.. Justin got the high score on the basketball game and I kicked some butt on skeeball.. Going there was good distraction for me. Later that evening Justin had basketball practice.
Thursday was a chill at home day. We are having tile put in the house so we hung around the house most of the day making sure things were going smoothly. I ran a few errands with Marc in the morning and picked up some delicous chinese food for lunch.
Today I am taking all the boys to six flags waterpark. Marc isnt much of a waterpark person but I know once I drag him there he will have fun. There are a few rides that hold four people- so he needs to come with us and all ride together.
Heres a few pics of the last few days.......

My three handsome boys

ChuckeCheese

Tile job so far.. It will look awesome when it's finished!

Bags posing for the camera

From the highs to the lows....

2008-07-08T20:16:00.000-07:00

Well I hadnt posted much leading up to my recent trip.. Back to reality. It was like going from a big high- being surrounded by wonderful friends and having such a great time I was distracted with the thoughts of how much I am missing Ricardo and all the sadness that goes along with this whole deployment... In the beginning of the trip on the plane I felt surrounded by couples who were soo lovey dovey I was about to get sick.. LOL..

Not watching the news while in MX I was not aware of the bombing in Kabul Afghanistan. Had I learned of that while on the trip I would have gone to a complete low filled with worry.. Coming back and reading up on the bombing has made me a little worried- Ricardo said it took place just a few blocks away from him.. Not really liking this whole deployment thing after all!

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/meast/06/26/afghan.fighting/index.html?iref=newssearch

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/06/18/afghanistan.fighting/index.html?iref=newssearch

Trying not to live in worry but gosh it's kinda scary thinking about whats going on over there. Seems Afganistan has been in the news far too much lately!

Check out the photos on here Ricardo has put together when you get a chance.. cant wait until he is home.. In ten more days it will have been two months that he has been gone and only four more months to go, but who's counting..

http://s299.photobucket.com/albums/mm283/AfghanVet_2008/

More highlights from my trip

2008-07-08T19:58:00.001-07:00

Couldnt add too many pics in one post so heres a few more..

Sara wanted a little culture so we went to Tulum

With our amazing tour guide Jesus- He made sure we learned everything about Tulum then showed us a great time in Akumal.. nice beach, good food and drinks..

Sample of some of the food we ate. YUMMY!

Group pic on the streets in Cozumel..

All good things must come to an end.. Cant live that way all the time- though it sure would be nice! The trip was a nice little break for me. The girls and I hope to meet up again every year and I am sure we will want the best of the best again! What great memories!

Wonderful weekend in Mexico!

2008-07-08T19:26:00.000-07:00

After soo much debate on whether or not I could or even should go to a friends bachelorette party trip in Mexico it turned out to be one of the best trips! From the moment I got off the plane in Cozumel I knew I was in for a treat. Friends of the family took EXCELLENT care of me and my friends. Talk about being treated like we were high class celebrities as my friends would say. We were able to do so many extras that really made the trip extra special and we will always have these wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.
Here are a few of the highlights of my weekend....

Captain Garcia behind the wheel!

Kicking off the trip with a few drinks..

Concho- long time family friend who made sure we were taken care of..

All of us with our hats from Ricardo

Swimming with the dolphins..

Breaking news!!! Maryann is (finally) engaged!

2008-06-22T09:25:00.000-07:00

After celebrating five years being together today, Ryon popped the question. Of course the answer was YES!~ We are all really happy for them and I am sure they will live a long happy life together. Can't wait for that lovely beach wedding!

I loved to dress her up when she was younger..

Big time Cowboys fan!

Good times we had on the Riverwalk when she came to visit.

The family- Ryon we will get you to come to Texas one of these days.

The lovely couple!

Just sharing a few lines I found on the web that seem soo true..

I don’t know if anyone has truly found the secret to a successful marriage. It may be that you should always put the other person’s needs ahead of your own. Or maybe you should vow to spoil each other with time, attention, and intimacy.
Whatever the secret is, don’t rest until you find it. Love each other with every thing you’ve got and don’t let anything or anyone separate you.

Ryon and Maryann-Congratulations on your engagement and we wish you all the pleasures that love and marriage brings.

missing my mischievous little monster

2008-06-22T09:16:00.000-07:00

Of course I am talking about Ricky! He keeps me busy thats for sure. He has been at camp for a week doing all kinds of exciting activities. The things he looked forward to most were the "boy stuff" shooting, canoeing, fishing, etc. I sure missed him but knew this would be a good experience for him and hope he liked it enough to go back every summer. I tend to baby him as I am told. Can't help it! He's the youngest. He reminds me from time to time that he is NOT little anymore. His teacher wrote in her little thank you note that Ricky is a hard worker who has a very kind soul. So under all that mischief he is just a sweet little boy. He came out this year with all A's and B's this year after some adjustments in the beginning of the school year. I am so thankful that he had a teacher that was so patient and kind. So proud of you and your hard work this year Ricky! I am off to pick him up in a few hours. Then it's back to the grind over here with him and All Stars. Three tournaments coming up and of course lots of practices to go along with that. Tomorrow evening is another special event for Ricky. For doing well in school as part of his gift I got him tickets to WWE tomorrow night. He is big into wrestling. He will be going with Marc and they are both really excited..
Attached are just a few pics of Ricky. Had to enclose the last one- he is always up to something!

So in love

2008-06-20T17:41:00.000-07:00

Posting alot today..
Lots of things have happened since June 8th.. Took Justin to camp- He stayed there all week. Picked him up on the 14th. He had an amazing time. Reminder for next year is to send him with a real digital camera instead of a throw-away.. The pics came out horrible. Justin captured a few of Colt McCoy working out but they are pretty blurry.. I went once during the week to check on him bring him whatever he might need, which was his football cleats.. My first impressions of the campus are really nice.. I sure hope my kids keep up their drive to go onto college!
Next big event was sending off Ricky to his first sleepover camp! He has been there since the 15th and is over tomorrow. I hope he enjoyed it enough so that we can send him again next year. The activities they do at camp are well worth the experience for these kids!
The last thing I want to update is a pic of Ricardo that he sent to me.. I have been soo down and out since he left and really trying to get out of this funk I have been in since he deployed.. It has been harder than the first time when he left in 2005.. Different emotions have come about.. It's ok though. We have had some difficult times throughout the military career and I truly feel that this depolyment has enriched our lives in soo many ways.. We have had a roller coaster of a ride throughout the military, but of course everything happens for a reason... I just want to express on here how much I love Ricardo with all of my heart and soul..
I hope that the love that has been felt throughout this deployment can be expressed within our family upon his return and through the rest of our lives...

Good title for this one- Moody Mom!

2008-06-08T17:35:00.000-07:00

Oh I am so glad this weekend is coming to an end. Full of moods left and right.. I tell you kids sure know how to push your buttons at times.. You know if they would only cooperate and do as expected life would be wonderful. But noo-- not so! Parenting as we all know is no smooth ride- its like a roller coaster I guess full of ups and downs. You know how true that saying is at times when you were told "just wait till you have kids!" Yep it was one of those weekends for me.. Kids defying rules, chores not done promptly, etc.. I am sure a little- ok maybe alot of it has to do with Ricardo being gone and I am the only enforcer of rules in the house. Not such a fun job being a single parent! Had to give them the news that their allowance will less since chores werent done as asked this week-- So therefore I am the mean mom I guess-- Hey no work-no pay/no play.. That's life.
Ask me today how this deployment is going and I'll just say I have had better days that's for sure! I wish we were at the end of it already..

Today Ricky and I took Justin to his camp at the University of Texas.. Justin is staying in some of the dorms there- the campus is HUGE! He was pretty excited to go- and ready for me to leave once I took him to the dorms- (did I mention it was a stressful morning here ?!) Checkin was in the athletic complex- those guys have an awesome workout facility! I sure hope he gets alot out of this and appreciates the fact that we were able to send him. He will be there all week- I am sure he will be worn out when I pick him up..

Ok heres to hoping my week goes a bit more smoothly as I am sure it will. Having two kids at the house instead of three wont be soo bad.. The boys usually behave well when its just two of them-noone to gang up on.. I get the pleasure of having some kind of peace three weeks this summer as the boys are going to their camps at all different times.. yippee!

Heres a few pics of the good ole days- when the boys were angelic and knew nothing about backtalking! haha..
Marc, then Marc and Justin- in one of their sweet moments, then Ricky..

Schools out for summer!!

2008-06-05T13:30:00.000-07:00

The boys have waited for this day to come.. Some days it felt like the year was dragging on but as it got closer to the end of it seemed like it just flew right by.
Awaiting report cards from Marc and Justin as they will get mailed to me within the week. Given that they did really well throughout the year I am sure the final report will be a good one. Ricky got all A's and B's. He's pretty happy about that. Even though school is out the days of sleeping in for the boys aren't fully here yet. Justin has two camps this month and Ricky has one. They're not too fond of having to wake up so early in the summer but it will be well worth with all they fun they will have at them. Here are their school pics from this past year. Marc will be going in the 10th grade, Justin in the 8th and Ricky in the 4th.. Where has the time gone?!

Justin Justin Justin

2008-06-03T19:08:00.000-07:00

Yes its all about Justin-- the middle child- the one who gets left out..
Well lets just say that he has proven he is the "middle child" by having to prove himself in every aspect out there.. When he was first assigned to the "b" team I realized then just how competitive football was in Texas. Not to brag or anything but I think Justin has some real skill here when it comes to football...So when he made made "b" he was a little dissappointed but it turns out I think that he got more playing time that anything being in the second string... What I am getting to is his upcoming football camp at the University of Texas. He is going from June 8-14th.. He is extremely excited about this knowing that its good to start getting recognized by the college he hopes to attend(potential scholarships!)One teamate commented in the yearbook that Justin Garcia is the best football player on the team.
He is my very social child.. I am constantly these days calling him, keeping tabs on him.. he has a girlfriend and one that he has had almost this entire school year! I gave him a camera for him to take pics since they went to the movies but he wouldnt do it.. I will just have to capture them myself one of these day!
We are really proud of Justin- his strong strong personality, his vibrant spirit, and his drive to succeed! I just hope that all of this continues!
We love you boy!

Garcia's Geckos and more..

2008-05-30T06:05:00.000-07:00

I havent posted in almost a week. Trying to get a good daily routine going that will keep me busy other than sitting at the computer and being depressed about Ricardo being gone. There is plenty of things I can be doing and enjoying these last few days of the quietness before the kids are out of school. I am actually looking forward to them being home and having a laid back summer. I know the boys are in summer mode already with their countdown going of when they will be able to sleep in. All three of them are looking forward to their camps, along with trips to Six Flags, the pool and more.. Marc's looking forward to his first job which he will start once school gets out. He will be a server at a little italian restuarant/pizza joint here in Cibolo.

I decided to make a post about each child. Today's post is about Marc. I think my title for this blog is a good name for Marc's impending business of breeding geckos.. Marc has come to really love these animals.. So much so that he may eventually run out of space in his room with his ever growing collection. He had something cool and exciting happen this week. He has two eggs that he has been waiting and waiting to hatch. Two nights ago one of them hatched and Marc was able to watch the whole thing. He was pretty excited about that and even made a video of it. Once he uploads it to youtube I will post that link. Several people I have talked to have thought I was crazy for allowing such a great amount of these animals in our home. Ricardo and I are just amazed at how knowledgable he is on these animals as he spends alot of time researching them. You wouldnt believe how much money some of these geckos go for. It's crazy! One of the top gecko breeders in the U.S. lives in a town nearby, about 45minutes. Marc has had the opportunity to have two private tours, thanks to his dad. I know he really thought that was awesome! We have been extremely proud of Marc, that he spends all this free time doing something that could eventually lead to bigger and better things for him in the future. We love you Marc!

Here are some pictures of Marc. The first two are of some of his collection. The next is of the gecko hatching. I added a picture of him with another love of his- baseball. The next two are with Ron Tremper and Marc's tour. The last is a picture with one of his geckos.

Memorial Day

2008-05-24T05:44:00.000-07:00

Get this Memorial Day Tribute Myspace Graphics from UGotBling.com

Taken in 05' when Ricardo was promoted to Captain.

Freedom isn't free. Remember those who died for us, those who are serving our country today, and for protecting us and keeping us safe. We miss you and love you dad- come home safe!

Feeling the pain at the pump..

2008-05-23T12:30:00.000-07:00

It's a sad day when you go to pump gas and $100 won't get a full tank of gas.. Never would I have predicted this when we got the suburban that I had wanted to soo long.. Gas back in 04' was $1.67 so the gas prices were in our budget.. Then Ricardo bought his truck in 05'.. Gas was good then too.. Now here were are in 08 and we have doubled in price.. It's ridiculous! I still love my suv but I am definitely going to make some adjustments in our summer plans due to the rising gas prices.. Even with extra $$ coming in from Ricardo's deployment who wants to waste it on gas if we don't have to? There is plenty of places to go in Texas anyways. If there is any goods (which at this very moment I am finding little) is that we will be saving a good chunk of $$ on gas for the next six months.. I sure hope it goes down even just a little bit when Ricardo comes back.
Trying to get into a good groove over here and not be soo down.. I have my mornings worked out and on a mission to get back in shape. As far as that goes I am feeling great 5days into my routine. I need to work on the rest of the day now- filling it with things that keep me busy and make me smile.
As of yesterday Ricardo still had not made it to Afghanistan which has made me a little angry about. I felt like he was rushed to get there only to sit at an airport- 3/4ths into the trip waiting for a plane to take him the rest of the way.. I am hoping to hear from his tonight or tomorrow to tell me he made it there safe and sound- and pray that he will stay that way!

Four days have passed..

2008-05-22T06:12:00.000-07:00

Four full days that Ricardo has been gone. It feels more like four months. We have family pictures all over the house and looking at them makes me go back to the moment that I had to drop him off at the airport when I was soo sad.. The boys have been good for me so far which is a miracle. We usually have a chaotic moment in the house once a day or every few days so to have four full days of "peace" is amazing! My classes are done until the summer session starts the second week of June- which gives myself too much time to sit around and dwell on Ricardo being gone and the things he will miss. I should use this time to try and get caught up on my scrapbooking- I think I'm a few years behind in the boys scrapbooks.. We are looking forward to going to Houston this weekend to visit family and catch an Astros game. We will sure miss Ricardo/Dad being there with us as we have been to so few games without him.

Here are some pics from Justin's birthday at ChuckeCheese from the little picture booth. Ricardo went a little crazy with our own camera that night.. I was even getting annoyed- me who loves to take a million pictures! haha

GO SPURS!

2008-05-20T07:09:00.000-07:00

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Spurs made history last night by winning game 7 on the road vs. New Orleans Hornets so now it's on to vs. LA Lakers. First two games are in LA. This will be an exciting matchup! Ricardo bought season tickets/playoff tickets. We have found out that the Spurs fans like to watch the games at home so needless to say we have been to quite a few games this season. They are really exciting to be there in person with the crowd soo pumped up. I'll admit that I wont be too upset if one game doesnt sell for us- Spurs vs. Lakers would be an awesome game to see!

Getting through the first day

2008-05-18T19:19:00.000-07:00

Today came up all too quickly as we had to say goodbye to Ricardo as he headed out for Afghanistan. He will be there for six months-186 days to be exact. The boys and I miss him so much already, yes even with all the chaos that we seem to have around here constantly! We will make the best of this situation, knowing in the back of my mind this separation will only strengthen the love we feel for each other and our boys. The boys have promised to be on their best behaviour and not argue so much with each other while their dad is gone. We will just hope that lasts even for a little bit! I intend to blog here frequently and let everyone know how we are doing, post updates on Ricardo as I receive them, etc.

I received these pictures today via email from Ricardo. They are from the training he had to do last week in preparation for his deployment. Enjoy!