this is my feeble attempt to try and update this blog...
"Life is still dealing out hands that test our ability to succeed. Luckily - we play each hand together."
:)
hope all is well...
6/30/10
4/3/10
Easter Weekend - WARNING - a bit graphic
Happy Easter Everyone!
So this year's Easter Celebration has been very minimal for our household but it hasn't lessened our focus on what this weekend truly means to the Christian world.
Although the weekend itself is not over as we still have tomorrow (Sunday) to get through - not to mention it's General Conference time again :) - I just HAD to get on my blog and record something that has just rocked my world today.
It's been over two hours now since we left the house for the THIRD time today.
1st time: I went to run a personal errand *wink* - (clue: Shape Up The Nation)
2nd time: Took the girls to an Easter Egg Hunt and an Easter Egg Plunge (they dive for eggs in a kiddie pool at our local Rec Center - quite fun actually!)
and 3rd time: To take Sa to the Chapel for the Priesthood meeting that started at 6pm.
So anyway, while on our way - we immediately came to a halt on the road and nothing seemed clear as to why everyone in front of us just decided to STOP!
As we inched along, we realized that everyone was trying to merge quickly to the right hand lane - so we did likewise.
Soon - the two left lanes were clear in view and to our horror, there, in the middle of the road, lay a young woman - completely lifeless. A few people stood near her with shock on their faces but none showed any sign that they were in any way related to her or knew who she was.
Bumper to bumper we crept in silence, when finally the sirens of a fire engine and an ambulance race to the scene - snapping us out of our trance if for only a few seconds.
Out of the corner of my eye I saw something that lay about 10feet away from the body. At first glance, I thought it was a small dog or cat that may have been hit as well - - - but to my shock it was a bunch of HAIR! *shudders*
My eyes darted back to the body which was now parallel to our car as we inched forward some more. Can someone explain why you can't tear your eyes away from such horrific events?
I was pretty sure I wasn't going to easily forget what I had ALREADY seen thus far, but the more I looked on - I couldn't help but think of how sorry I felt (not only for her) but for her family and friends who were obviously nowhere in sight. *so gut wrenching I tell ya*
Her body was simply broken. She was either hit by more than one car or hit by a really fast one. Her clothes were torn where skidding on the road after impact had occurred leaving her bare skin exposed and once again 'simply broken'. She was bent and twisted at points that knew of no such angles and yet her head was hidden from view (possibly covered by someone that was involved).
Then cutting through my shock (again) was Coretta from the backseat saying, "Customer has an oweee...she needs to go to the Doctor, right Mommy?".
I had completely forgotten that our girls were with us up until that point - and I turned around and looked at her, then Heiress - and silently nodded.
Having been reeled back to my own world by the Coretta's innocent question - I was quickly reminded of how real accidents are; of how truly short life is; and of how unprepared I am to deal with sudden loss (given the situation) if I were put in such a position (heaven forbid).
Needless to say, we were soon driving away from the scene of the accident - although the images still haunted my thoughts. I was thinking about how if we had left even a few SECONDS earlier we would've in the middle of it all or would've been part of it's prevention. Who knows? All I know is, this random event has gotten me all rattled and wanting to check up on all my family and friends. So for those of you whom I've posted bizarre "I love you" posts on Facebook (with an "I might die soon" tone) - this is why. :)
I know how much I care about my family and friends but I probably don't share it often enough. So to all readers (family, friend, or random stranger) - please be safe on the roads, and know that we are thinking of all of you (like always) but with added significance during this Easter season :). I especially love to reflect upon the gratitude I feel for the ultimate Sacrifice this holiday commemorates because it is one that is full of love and compassion - - - both of which, I try each day to live and better yet see in others. Though it's all a work in progress. Just remember: Giving up is not an option.
And once again, stay safe and watch out for each other.
TTYL
So this year's Easter Celebration has been very minimal for our household but it hasn't lessened our focus on what this weekend truly means to the Christian world.
Although the weekend itself is not over as we still have tomorrow (Sunday) to get through - not to mention it's General Conference time again :) - I just HAD to get on my blog and record something that has just rocked my world today.
It's been over two hours now since we left the house for the THIRD time today.
1st time: I went to run a personal errand *wink* - (clue: Shape Up The Nation)
2nd time: Took the girls to an Easter Egg Hunt and an Easter Egg Plunge (they dive for eggs in a kiddie pool at our local Rec Center - quite fun actually!)
and 3rd time: To take Sa to the Chapel for the Priesthood meeting that started at 6pm.
So anyway, while on our way - we immediately came to a halt on the road and nothing seemed clear as to why everyone in front of us just decided to STOP!
As we inched along, we realized that everyone was trying to merge quickly to the right hand lane - so we did likewise.
Soon - the two left lanes were clear in view and to our horror, there, in the middle of the road, lay a young woman - completely lifeless. A few people stood near her with shock on their faces but none showed any sign that they were in any way related to her or knew who she was.
Bumper to bumper we crept in silence, when finally the sirens of a fire engine and an ambulance race to the scene - snapping us out of our trance if for only a few seconds.
Out of the corner of my eye I saw something that lay about 10feet away from the body. At first glance, I thought it was a small dog or cat that may have been hit as well - - - but to my shock it was a bunch of HAIR! *shudders*
My eyes darted back to the body which was now parallel to our car as we inched forward some more. Can someone explain why you can't tear your eyes away from such horrific events?
I was pretty sure I wasn't going to easily forget what I had ALREADY seen thus far, but the more I looked on - I couldn't help but think of how sorry I felt (not only for her) but for her family and friends who were obviously nowhere in sight. *so gut wrenching I tell ya*
Her body was simply broken. She was either hit by more than one car or hit by a really fast one. Her clothes were torn where skidding on the road after impact had occurred leaving her bare skin exposed and once again 'simply broken'. She was bent and twisted at points that knew of no such angles and yet her head was hidden from view (possibly covered by someone that was involved).
Then cutting through my shock (again) was Coretta from the backseat saying, "Customer has an oweee...she needs to go to the Doctor, right Mommy?".
I had completely forgotten that our girls were with us up until that point - and I turned around and looked at her, then Heiress - and silently nodded.
Having been reeled back to my own world by the Coretta's innocent question - I was quickly reminded of how real accidents are; of how truly short life is; and of how unprepared I am to deal with sudden loss (given the situation) if I were put in such a position (heaven forbid).
Needless to say, we were soon driving away from the scene of the accident - although the images still haunted my thoughts. I was thinking about how if we had left even a few SECONDS earlier we would've in the middle of it all or would've been part of it's prevention. Who knows? All I know is, this random event has gotten me all rattled and wanting to check up on all my family and friends. So for those of you whom I've posted bizarre "I love you" posts on Facebook (with an "I might die soon" tone) - this is why. :)
I know how much I care about my family and friends but I probably don't share it often enough. So to all readers (family, friend, or random stranger) - please be safe on the roads, and know that we are thinking of all of you (like always) but with added significance during this Easter season :). I especially love to reflect upon the gratitude I feel for the ultimate Sacrifice this holiday commemorates because it is one that is full of love and compassion - - - both of which, I try each day to live and better yet see in others. Though it's all a work in progress. Just remember: Giving up is not an option.
And once again, stay safe and watch out for each other.
TTYL
3/27/10
our divas thank goodness the weekend is here! Just chillin' at home - cleaning up and doin' chores with the divas :).
Sa's at work. grrrrrr.
And we'll probably miss today's rugby game - which, by the way, is going to be at Dimple Dell - a whole lot closer than the previous games which were held in Provo!
Anyway - just loving the simple things in life right now.
enjoy your weekend! smooches from the divas:)
3/24/10
Good Morning!!
I've been up since 4am because I decided to go to bed at 8:30pm last night! That is a record for me!
We got home at 8:25pm anyway - and that was after running around picking up the girls from Emily's and then picking up Sa from work... then heading to the "Samoan" park (as his teammates have deemed it) to drop him off to his rugby practice. Conveniently, there is a playground at this same park - right next to the parking lot - so the girls got a half hour of pure sliding fun before the cold breeze forced me to drag them back into the car.
We grabbed some drinks from a nearby BK - headed back picked up Sa and made an emergency bathroom stop on the way home because Coretta needed to go. Needless to say - she lied. She just wanted an ice cream cone from McDs and now after all that - I'm still wondering why I'm up so early.
Anyway - was back at work yesterday after having to stay home and cater to my sick divas. They were down with fevers and diarrhea. So not fun! It was mostly my fault because I had given them apple juice on Saturday and I have learned my lesson. Curses to Apple Juice!!!
I think I'm going to go get ready for work now. It's 6am.
My thought for the day is not an original. Neither is it something that I fully agree with but it is more of a quote from a co-worker during a discussion about the termination of a fellow co-worker in their department:
We got home at 8:25pm anyway - and that was after running around picking up the girls from Emily's and then picking up Sa from work... then heading to the "Samoan" park (as his teammates have deemed it) to drop him off to his rugby practice. Conveniently, there is a playground at this same park - right next to the parking lot - so the girls got a half hour of pure sliding fun before the cold breeze forced me to drag them back into the car.
We grabbed some drinks from a nearby BK - headed back picked up Sa and made an emergency bathroom stop on the way home because Coretta needed to go. Needless to say - she lied. She just wanted an ice cream cone from McDs and now after all that - I'm still wondering why I'm up so early.
Anyway - was back at work yesterday after having to stay home and cater to my sick divas. They were down with fevers and diarrhea. So not fun! It was mostly my fault because I had given them apple juice on Saturday and I have learned my lesson. Curses to Apple Juice!!!
I think I'm going to go get ready for work now. It's 6am.
My thought for the day is not an original. Neither is it something that I fully agree with but it is more of a quote from a co-worker during a discussion about the termination of a fellow co-worker in their department:
"(sob) (sob) (sob) ... Well she should be able to find another job quite easily. I mean, she's cute and skinny - oh - and she's got a degree! ...(sob) (sob) (sob)"
- I don't think this is an astounding thought by any measure, but it puts a lot of the superficial and shallow state of mind most, not all, people have these days into a simple nutshell.
TTYL!
- I don't think this is an astounding thought by any measure, but it puts a lot of the superficial and shallow state of mind most, not all, people have these days into a simple nutshell.
TTYL!
3/22/10
talofa 2010 - 2 and a half months later!
Sorry to all readers for "missin' in action"...
So much has happened in our lives these past few months since my last post that it's going to be hard to sum it all up without missing a few details here and there.
FIRSTLY: RUGBY
Sa is now a registered player for a Salt Lake based rugby team called the Utah Islanders Rugby Club. (There are about 99.9% Samoans on the team but I guess they will soon try to "aggressively" pursue the recruitment of "more diversity" to stay true to their name).
So far they have only had 3 games: 1 win, 2 losses. They have a long way to go but have great motivation and potential to become a great team here. Did I mention they were only 1 of FOUR teams in their division here??.. haha.. - So Rugby is still catching on here - so in order to help it grow and get the community support - COME AND ENJOY FROM THE SIDELINES EVERY SATURDAY FOR THE NEXT 2 and a half MONTHS! -head on over to http://www.hometeamsonline.com/teams/default.asp?u=UTAHRFU&t=c&s=htosports&p=schedule for more details. (Hopefully these guys' team schedule will be updated.)
We also headed out to Las Vegas during Valentine's weekend to watch the 2-day USA Sevens Tournament! Not to get into too many details, I'd just like to say it was FUN for me, FUN for the divas, and FUN for Sa. It was fun spending time with family and fun to witness Samoa win the Cup! Fast-forward 2months later - Samoa just won the Cup again at the Aussie Sevens that just took place this past weekend!
SECONDLY: the Divas
Right now we've worked out an arrangement with one of our close friends here who have agreed to help us with our girls - until our "plans have been followed through for them". In the meantime - Thank you Emily and Amani for your help. They've been in and out of "varying" situations as far as growth spurts, illnesses, and other "toddler-related" experiences as is normal for a terrible-twos' year old and a terrible-threes' year old... :)
Regardless, we love love love how these two are growing up so much and how they truly complete our home! Thanks Coretta for keeping your dad in check by reminding him Vanity is a sin! *wink* and Thanks Heiress for assisting your dad at the store when you go Grocery shopping together by pointing out only the things YOU & YOUR SISTER like to eat!! LOVE YOU TO BITS!
I have more updated pics of the divas on my FB page... If you're lucky enough to 1)FIND ME and then 2) have me notice your friend request promptly enough to accept it - then enjoy my favorite album of them appropriately named "lipstick jungle". :)
THIRDLY: bringing home the bacon
Work is still great! I have my moments with frustration due to my lack of concentration sometimes but I'm grateful that I have a job during these tough times. I found out from work that I have "decent" bowling skills averaging between 100 - 150 per game. I've lost some friends because they have decided to pursue other career paths at this time but all in all - I have acquired a great "liking" to the world of 'Accounting'. For those of you who have not known me before recently - I am a Chemistry *slash* Biology junkie. or rather I "was". Anyway - needless to say, that part of my life is on the back burner for now.
Sa, on the other hand - is enjoying (sometimes) the challenges he faces at his own job. I've seen him grow a lot as he gets more responsibilities and leadership duties added upon him. His work ethics and attitude towards his job reminds me of Beyonce's song 'Ego'
not so much the "ego" part - but more-so the "...he can back it up" part. :)
LASTLY: progression
If you have the opportunity (and a lonnnnng afternoon of doing nothing) - you will note that from my previous entries, I am a great fan and even stronger believer of the concept of "PROGRESS". I can honestly say, that once again - we are slowly but SURELY making it a priority in our lives. There have been hurdles on the way ...(a.k.a BILLS, and gas prices etc etc etc) but with faith and lots of work, we've truly been blessed each day.
Today's piece of advice from my mental store of personal quotes:
ttyl!!!
So much has happened in our lives these past few months since my last post that it's going to be hard to sum it all up without missing a few details here and there.
FIRSTLY: RUGBY
Sa is now a registered player for a Salt Lake based rugby team called the Utah Islanders Rugby Club. (There are about 99.9% Samoans on the team but I guess they will soon try to "aggressively" pursue the recruitment of "more diversity" to stay true to their name).
So far they have only had 3 games: 1 win, 2 losses. They have a long way to go but have great motivation and potential to become a great team here. Did I mention they were only 1 of FOUR teams in their division here??.. haha.. - So Rugby is still catching on here - so in order to help it grow and get the community support - COME AND ENJOY FROM THE SIDELINES EVERY SATURDAY FOR THE NEXT 2 and a half MONTHS! -head on over to http://www.hometeamsonline.com/teams/default.asp?u=UTAHRFU&t=c&s=htosports&p=schedule for more details. (Hopefully these guys' team schedule will be updated.)
We also headed out to Las Vegas during Valentine's weekend to watch the 2-day USA Sevens Tournament! Not to get into too many details, I'd just like to say it was FUN for me, FUN for the divas, and FUN for Sa. It was fun spending time with family and fun to witness Samoa win the Cup! Fast-forward 2months later - Samoa just won the Cup again at the Aussie Sevens that just took place this past weekend!
SECONDLY: the Divas
Right now we've worked out an arrangement with one of our close friends here who have agreed to help us with our girls - until our "plans have been followed through for them". In the meantime - Thank you Emily and Amani for your help. They've been in and out of "varying" situations as far as growth spurts, illnesses, and other "toddler-related" experiences as is normal for a terrible-twos' year old and a terrible-threes' year old... :)
Regardless, we love love love how these two are growing up so much and how they truly complete our home! Thanks Coretta for keeping your dad in check by reminding him Vanity is a sin! *wink* and Thanks Heiress for assisting your dad at the store when you go Grocery shopping together by pointing out only the things YOU & YOUR SISTER like to eat!! LOVE YOU TO BITS!
I have more updated pics of the divas on my FB page... If you're lucky enough to 1)FIND ME and then 2) have me notice your friend request promptly enough to accept it - then enjoy my favorite album of them appropriately named "lipstick jungle". :)
THIRDLY: bringing home the bacon
Work is still great! I have my moments with frustration due to my lack of concentration sometimes but I'm grateful that I have a job during these tough times. I found out from work that I have "decent" bowling skills averaging between 100 - 150 per game. I've lost some friends because they have decided to pursue other career paths at this time but all in all - I have acquired a great "liking" to the world of 'Accounting'. For those of you who have not known me before recently - I am a Chemistry *slash* Biology junkie. or rather I "was". Anyway - needless to say, that part of my life is on the back burner for now.
Sa, on the other hand - is enjoying (sometimes) the challenges he faces at his own job. I've seen him grow a lot as he gets more responsibilities and leadership duties added upon him. His work ethics and attitude towards his job reminds me of Beyonce's song 'Ego'
not so much the "ego" part - but more-so the "...he can back it up" part. :)
LASTLY: progression
If you have the opportunity (and a lonnnnng afternoon of doing nothing) - you will note that from my previous entries, I am a great fan and even stronger believer of the concept of "PROGRESS". I can honestly say, that once again - we are slowly but SURELY making it a priority in our lives. There have been hurdles on the way ...(a.k.a BILLS, and gas prices etc etc etc) but with faith and lots of work, we've truly been blessed each day.
Today's piece of advice from my mental store of personal quotes:
'Pay your tithing, steer clear of gossip, and a 'vent' email doesn't always need feedback.'
ttyl!!!
12/23/09
it's not always about the food. :)
So next week Friday - we'll be starting a new year. And I still haven't had the time to update this darn blog since my October post letting everyone know that we were still alive!... sorry.
It's not quite in the works right now either but is a definite 'potential' on my list of priorities for the moment.
But while I have miraculously found my way back to my blog and telling from my revolver map - I've had a few visits since my last post - (I do apologize again for the lack of updates) - I did want to take the time to personally and publicly thank all our friends and families that have gone through yet another year's coaster ride with us as we all strive to achieve goals, better ourselves and continue the steady progression towards success-(which can be measured in very different ways when considering where we stand in our personal lives).
Thanks for all the "good times", and good food *wink*, and for choosing to share them with us. :)
We can't wait for all the new adventures, trials, good times, snow plowing - what have you - OH! -and all the good 'food' that awaits us in 2010.
Stay safe!
P.S - Happy Birthday to my little brother Jimmy Jr. who turns 22yrs old today!!!
I bet they're going to have some awesome food for the party! :P
It's not quite in the works right now either but is a definite 'potential' on my list of priorities for the moment.
But while I have miraculously found my way back to my blog and telling from my revolver map - I've had a few visits since my last post - (I do apologize again for the lack of updates) - I did want to take the time to personally and publicly thank all our friends and families that have gone through yet another year's coaster ride with us as we all strive to achieve goals, better ourselves and continue the steady progression towards success-(which can be measured in very different ways when considering where we stand in our personal lives).
Thanks for all the "good times", and good food *wink*, and for choosing to share them with us. :)
We can't wait for all the new adventures, trials, good times, snow plowing - what have you - OH! -and all the good 'food' that awaits us in 2010.
Stay safe!
P.S - Happy Birthday to my little brother Jimmy Jr. who turns 22yrs old today!!!
I bet they're going to have some awesome food for the party! :P
10/18/09
nearing the end of yet another year
***sign of life***
Can you believe October '09 is almost over?
so much to do... so little time.
hope all of you (family, friends and the occasional random reader) - are enjoying life thus far!
until I can find my data cable for my camera to upload all the recent pics from EVERYWHERE I've taken.... ttyl!
Can you believe October '09 is almost over?
so much to do... so little time.
hope all of you (family, friends and the occasional random reader) - are enjoying life thus far!
until I can find my data cable for my camera to upload all the recent pics from EVERYWHERE I've taken.... ttyl!
10/2/09
'grief' - is an understatement.
still coming to grips with these...
images
images
images of death
images of destruction
images of sweet memories-literally 'washed away'.
images
images of loss
images of despairing families
images of sweet children-literally 'washed away'
images
images of yesterday
images of a never-ending tomorrow
images of sweet lives-literally 'washed away'
images
images of grief
images of smiles - now gone
images of samoa-my sweet-samoa-literally 'washed away
*********************
-these images were furbished by several fellow 'facebook-ers' reflecting the after-effects of the recent Tsunami that claimed the lives, homes, friends and families of many in Samoa and American Samoa.
-Our immediate families are safe. After a million (and one) attempts to call home, we were made sure of that. Many others were not so lucky. Please pray for those who have lost homes, parents, siblings and children in this deadly disaster.
-Our immediate families are safe. After a million (and one) attempts to call home, we were made sure of that. Many others were not so lucky. Please pray for those who have lost homes, parents, siblings and children in this deadly disaster.
9/20/09
family photo fun... ....bored much?
i love the "good" and "fun" things that technology can enable us all to do these days. Please enjoy my little gallery which I've also added my personal interpretation to:
"love at first sight"
"love at first sight"
simply: "reflection"
"feature presentation"
"work of art"9/17/09
i've got mail!
After SIX YEARS worth of unsuccessful attempts, my little sister has finally sent me a current picture of my family back home... can you believe it's been SIX years since I've seen them?
L-R Standing: my Mama-Diva, family/ward/youth friend P. Tafua, my little sister-Diva, (infront of her)-my baby sister Diva, my sis-in-law Diva, my not-so-little-anymore baby brother.
L-R Front: family friend from the Ilalio household, family friend "Stu".
this certainly made my day... i hope you dont take for granted the simple things that "make your day".
8/17/09
EXTRA EXTRA - READ ALL ABOUT IT!!
With the crazy hours I work each week, I've resorted to listening to books on Cd to help make the workload a little more bearable.
I kind of threw it out there as an idea and was fortunate to find out that my supervisor had a NUMBER of books on cd and she kindly let me start on her Harry Potter series!
I had already read all 7 books years ago (LIKE WHO HASN'T!?!?)... but it is a great refresher and I can't wait to get started on something else or NEW.
*****************
I've also been invited to join a book club started by Mrs. Sifo Taatiti - and already we are off to a GREAT START!!!...
If any of you have the time to or are just looking to find a good piece of literature to dive in to.... then I suggest reading "The Last Child", by John Hart.
I really liked it. And our 1st book club meeting to discuss it opened up so much more depth to the story than I imagined.
Our next reading selection is 'The Time Traveler's Wife" (i think) - and it corresponds with the release of it's cinematic version also titled after the novel. -and by the looks of it - I think I'm going to like the movie already!!!
Anyhow - please feel free to recommend some of the great books you've read so that I can start adding to my library at home!
Some personal favorites: 'The Pearl', by John Steinbeck; The Work And The Glory Series, by Gerald N. Lund; 'The 12th Night', William Shakespeare; The Twilight Saga, by Stephenie Meyer; and more to come!
Happy reading folks!
I kind of threw it out there as an idea and was fortunate to find out that my supervisor had a NUMBER of books on cd and she kindly let me start on her Harry Potter series!
I had already read all 7 books years ago (LIKE WHO HASN'T!?!?)... but it is a great refresher and I can't wait to get started on something else or NEW.
*****************
I've also been invited to join a book club started by Mrs. Sifo Taatiti - and already we are off to a GREAT START!!!...
If any of you have the time to or are just looking to find a good piece of literature to dive in to.... then I suggest reading "The Last Child", by John Hart.
I really liked it. And our 1st book club meeting to discuss it opened up so much more depth to the story than I imagined.
Our next reading selection is 'The Time Traveler's Wife" (i think) - and it corresponds with the release of it's cinematic version also titled after the novel. -and by the looks of it - I think I'm going to like the movie already!!!
Anyhow - please feel free to recommend some of the great books you've read so that I can start adding to my library at home!
Some personal favorites: 'The Pearl', by John Steinbeck; The Work And The Glory Series, by Gerald N. Lund; 'The 12th Night', William Shakespeare; The Twilight Saga, by Stephenie Meyer; and more to come!
Happy reading folks!
8/16/09
im SURROUNDED by it...as opposed to living FOR it.
DRAMA
-it's like an epidemic. People just can't seem to be free or rid of it. Furthermore it becomes an addiction for others. Like WITHOUT IT - they're left with pretty much "nothing" -or so they think.
-If I could define this word in my own terms: I'd use certain people as examples. People around me. People that I try hard to resist the temptation to shake SENSE into........physically.
-A world without it would be .... well... I really don't know. I'd be left with my family and close friends and all things "positive" - i assume?
-the most drama I've had recently ... is ... how upset I got when Sa left his big ol' hand print on our newly replaced windshield. But that's little league drama I guess. It ranks about as high as my divas' tantrums... which is not too high at all.
NOTE TO READERS AND FRIENDS OF THIS BLOG-(or those who might agree):
-Noone REALLY likes drama. If you "attract it" or are prone to it or you just can't help the situations you are in that "causes" it.... then you are undoubtedly a drama queen or king.
Do not be mistaken by others gestures of kindness towards you during your "peak" season.
It is out of pity and hope that some optimism will rub off on you.
On the other hand, take your outdated show on the road until you've GROWN UP enough to "hang with the mature folks".
Drama GETS OLD. Deal with it and move along. Make better choices and quit pencilling yourself and issues into OTHER PEOPLEs' schedules. No one ELSE should lose two hours of their lives only to conclude that you love the attention you draw to yourself.
NOTE TO SELF:
-rid yourself of drama-related people.
NOTE TO the "DRAMA-RELATED" of our society:
grow up - that's the first step. and if this hits home: I TELL IT LIKE IT IS.
p.s... this didn't sprout from anything that has happened related to my entry. I just happened to realize, as I sit at home surrounded by my family: Sa and our divas... that all is well with my life. And when I spend time with our close friends and family elsewhere, its like that as well. But it's when I step into the other areas of my life - that strong negative forces are just working to eat away at all the goodness that I've fed off of in the comfort of my home and with those I love.
I have an opinion on certain matters (depending on my mood). And this blog is one of the best ways to let it be heard.
-it's like an epidemic. People just can't seem to be free or rid of it. Furthermore it becomes an addiction for others. Like WITHOUT IT - they're left with pretty much "nothing" -or so they think.
-If I could define this word in my own terms: I'd use certain people as examples. People around me. People that I try hard to resist the temptation to shake SENSE into........physically.
-A world without it would be .... well... I really don't know. I'd be left with my family and close friends and all things "positive" - i assume?
-the most drama I've had recently ... is ... how upset I got when Sa left his big ol' hand print on our newly replaced windshield. But that's little league drama I guess. It ranks about as high as my divas' tantrums... which is not too high at all.
NOTE TO READERS AND FRIENDS OF THIS BLOG-(or those who might agree):
-Noone REALLY likes drama. If you "attract it" or are prone to it or you just can't help the situations you are in that "causes" it.... then you are undoubtedly a drama queen or king.
Do not be mistaken by others gestures of kindness towards you during your "peak" season.
It is out of pity and hope that some optimism will rub off on you.
On the other hand, take your outdated show on the road until you've GROWN UP enough to "hang with the mature folks".
Drama GETS OLD. Deal with it and move along. Make better choices and quit pencilling yourself and issues into OTHER PEOPLEs' schedules. No one ELSE should lose two hours of their lives only to conclude that you love the attention you draw to yourself.
NOTE TO SELF:
-rid yourself of drama-related people.
NOTE TO the "DRAMA-RELATED" of our society:
grow up - that's the first step. and if this hits home: I TELL IT LIKE IT IS.
p.s... this didn't sprout from anything that has happened related to my entry. I just happened to realize, as I sit at home surrounded by my family: Sa and our divas... that all is well with my life. And when I spend time with our close friends and family elsewhere, its like that as well. But it's when I step into the other areas of my life - that strong negative forces are just working to eat away at all the goodness that I've fed off of in the comfort of my home and with those I love.
I have an opinion on certain matters (depending on my mood). And this blog is one of the best ways to let it be heard.
7/19/09
another milestone!
I don't know when I will soon be able to post another blog because of how hectic my schedule seems to be......-let's not forget my new obsession with Facebook's Farmville and Farmtown! - so this is slightly early.
This week my youngest diva -Heiress- will turn TWO!!!!!
If any of you have the chance to meet my girls, you will see how completely opposite their personalities are -as opposed to how similar (some people say) they look!
Heiress is our mellow, laid back, puppy-eyed, timid, chunky china-doll who is always determined in figuring things out on her own; also very low-maintenance, belly-hanging, curious with slight stubbornness, bouncy, and always down for TWO naps a day!!!
She can be very sneaky when it comes to irritating the heck out of her older sister and boyyyyyyy - can she give a mean glare.
She can turn on the water-works at will.............and this little diva is known for her "social eater" status!
If you upset her....it ain't over until she has the last say! (Not in a bratty way - - - - but it could be 10 minutes after the fact - - - - and she'll march over to you and give you a final tone in one word: "STOP!").
She is very sincere and trusting once she gets to know you, and always tries to overcome her shyness and fear (*mostly of birds and dogs*) by forcing a great big smile and wave........
Mimicking is one of her talents .... but she can put you under a spell with her cute kisses and heart-wrenching pouts!
I love it when she and Coretta get along and hug and hold hands and help each other and even team up against other kids at the park or at church...(though I might add: "sorry if they were YOUR kids").... I love both of them without question!
Another year ..............Still Forever Adoring you baby!.....Love Mom and Dad and Coretta.
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I just realized that I too will be hitting a milestone like Heiress except with 20+ yrs added to hers.... *wink*
As I reflect upon all the 20+ years I've been alive.... I figure there are many things and people that I am grateful for....
My family....that's a given
My friends....another given
My job.... a RECENT given...:)
My religion.... for it puts everything into perspective
My upbringing..... very questionable but still better off than most people's
My culture..... hmmmm... I COULD do without the "genetic" side of it though... But I will keep the pigmentation
My past... well some of it will do
My future... which still looks amazingly bright.
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THOUGH - I must say... that even after all that... I'm (at this very moment) most grateful for my sanity and sense of humor....And even more grateful and indebted to those who help me maintain it and laugh or smile because of it.
Live well, Laugh Often, Love Much
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See you all at the Samoan Flagweek celebrations this week!
7/2/09
RARE..... very RARE - indeed.
rare.... is how i describe my "free time" these days.
but lo and BEHOLD - I have finally found some...
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So soon after I disappeared almost THREE weeks ago from cyberspace.....
some significant things took place in our household....
FIRST AND FOREMOST:
mY little DIVA -Coretta- TURNED three!!!
words cannot express how much pride and love I have in and for such an intelligent, brave, fiesty, super-sensitive, loveable, strong-willed, girly, witty, talented, beautiful, chocolate-loving, talkative, disney-crazed, bug-fearing, photogenic, mirror-gazing, tantrum throwing fanatic and snuggle-happy- diva of a daughter Miss Coretta is to us!
in her three years, she is 'easily' defined by some of these:
She is Heiress's spokeswoman,
and will MAKE YOU enjoy watching Finding Nemo FOUR times a day!
She wows us with her expanding vocabulary and
is an EXCELLENT student when we sit down and do some REAL learning!
Her memory of words, people, things and especially places -AMAZE us.
And she is known to refer to anyone we know or talk to...as "aunty" or "uncle"!!! - Trust me! - We could be in line at Wal*Mart and not even know each other but if we have a friendly conversation in that 5minute wait.... She'll wave and smile at you and say "hi Aunty!".
Happy Birthday Baby!!! - Forever Adoring You, ......Mom and Dad!
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~Intermission: for some random news~
the king is dead. I don't think I can be categorized as one of his CRAZED fans but I did enjoy his music.
I've never been to any of his concerts or seen him in person but as a kid, I DID get to see an impersonator in Hawaii put on a performance at the PCC. He was ALMOST as good as the real deal. But then again I think I was 8YRS old then.... What did I know?
Meanwhiles, ......... I was just wondering..........Will the world of music dub ANOTHER "king" of whatever genre now?... Elvis - king of rock...MJ - king of pop..... Edward Cullen - king of all women's fantasies from ages 10-100yrs!!... HAHAHAHA...(but he doesn't count because he's not -er- "real")
but yerrrrr - I wonder if Michael Jackson read Twilight. If he did - he'd probably revamp Neverland and call it "Volterra" or "Forks" or...... better yet "Mike's Isle Esme!" .................... That would've been AWESOME!!!
ok.... enough.. RIP MJ
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secondly:
I made a trip to Lagoon with my girls and we had a BLAST!... (and by "blast", I mean 'I was so pooped after a long day of walking and getting on and off rides with these two that I was out like a lightbulb soon after we got home'). enjoy some of the pics:
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in other news:
we are VERY busy people these days. Sa and I both work long hours then he has rugby and now I'm gonna start going to a new book club with Sifo -(THANKS SIFO!!!)-and we're in a new ward where I've become the unofficial honorary Nursery Leader! -haha-
Being on the GO is always great but finding some down time like this to relax and chill at home with family is even better.
Enjoy your July 4th weekend everyone!
sorry for the mediocre report... -but in the words of the late Bernie Mac, I say: "THREE MINUTES IS ALL I GOT"....(context of that line is TOTALLY unrelated to this situation) - but yeah...
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CLOSING NOTE (possibly to self): -Quit being so uptight and always looking for a fight. Believe it or not, there are actually alot of nice people out there in the world. So get out and enjoy every bit of it... (though........still be prepared to knock someone out if they think otherwise!) *wink*
6/11/09
just so you know.
flat line*******************flat line ****************** flat line****************BEEP! * BEEP!* BEEP!
NOTE TO READERS OF COHEIRESS CHRONICLES:
we are still alive! -BUSY- but still alive! totally enjoying reading everyone else's blogs!
p.s..... have YOU gotten over that NEW MOON trailer yet????.... :P
ttfn!!!
NOTE TO READERS OF COHEIRESS CHRONICLES:
we are still alive! -BUSY- but still alive! totally enjoying reading everyone else's blogs!
p.s..... have YOU gotten over that NEW MOON trailer yet????.... :P
ttfn!!!
5/22/09
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: ... with much sincerity...
note to ALL lakers fans:
My condolences to all said fans of this disgraced team and/or "losers" ...for the 'home-court' and/or "loser-ville" LOSS and/or "LOSS" that was SUFFERED and/or "SUFFERED" last night.
Long live ALL - but the lakers...(and/or "losers").
My condolences to all said fans of this disgraced team and/or "losers" ...for the 'home-court' and/or "loser-ville" LOSS and/or "LOSS" that was SUFFERED and/or "SUFFERED" last night.
Long live ALL - but the lakers...(and/or "losers").
5/11/09
TWILIGHT-CRAZE in SAMOA!!!....
the above picture is a print screen of a Map from a site called RevolverMaps or something... and you can upload this widget to your personal webpage (if it can be supported)
QUICK RUNDOWN:
This map enables the page owner and visitors to view and pinpoint places throughout the world that have accessed or are currently viewing your profile or webpage.
I actually have one on my blog here on the right column ... and so far I've been amazed by the random viewing from Mexico, the Philipines, Croatia and somewhere else in Europe. - thus the reason for "GOING UNDER"... kinda creepy if you will. But some people ACTUALLY "like" the random attention.
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SO ANYWAY - GETTING TO MY POINT:
The above Map is linked to a site called TwilightMoms.com and it has confirmed to me that Twilight is DEFINITELY big - - - - - - - - not only because of the GAZILLION dots illuminating across the world.........................
but moreso because someone in SAMOA has dared to venture into THAT very same part of CyberSpace to view the growing online Twilight Phenomenon!
Thus the Big Yellow arrow pointing to our "literal" DOT on the map we call home - and IT is now numbered among the permanent "visitor" locations for this cool site.
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I mean - REALLY though????
It seriously can't get any bigger than that - or can it?....
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DO EXCUSE THIS RANDOM POST.
YOU MAY NOW RESUME WITH REGULAR EVERYDAY PROGRAMMING AS ORIGINALLY SCHEDULED.
PLEASE ENJOY THE REMAINDER OF YOUR WEEK.
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QUICK RUNDOWN:
This map enables the page owner and visitors to view and pinpoint places throughout the world that have accessed or are currently viewing your profile or webpage.
I actually have one on my blog here on the right column ... and so far I've been amazed by the random viewing from Mexico, the Philipines, Croatia and somewhere else in Europe. - thus the reason for "GOING UNDER"... kinda creepy if you will. But some people ACTUALLY "like" the random attention.
************************
SO ANYWAY - GETTING TO MY POINT:
The above Map is linked to a site called TwilightMoms.com and it has confirmed to me that Twilight is DEFINITELY big - - - - - - - - not only because of the GAZILLION dots illuminating across the world.........................
but moreso because someone in SAMOA has dared to venture into THAT very same part of CyberSpace to view the growing online Twilight Phenomenon!
Thus the Big Yellow arrow pointing to our "literal" DOT on the map we call home - and IT is now numbered among the permanent "visitor" locations for this cool site.
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I mean - REALLY though????
It seriously can't get any bigger than that - or can it?....
*************************
DO EXCUSE THIS RANDOM POST.
YOU MAY NOW RESUME WITH REGULAR EVERYDAY PROGRAMMING AS ORIGINALLY SCHEDULED.
PLEASE ENJOY THE REMAINDER OF YOUR WEEK.
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5/10/09
5/9/09
on a "SNAPPING" spree!!!
After giving my girls a bath at 7am this morning....(IT'S SATURDAY morning even! - really?????) - i KID YOU NOT ------- they decided to get cozy enough again to go back to sleep until about 9am!
Then did the whole breakfast routine......diaper and potty-trip routine.....put on Disney routine....YADI YADI YADA.
An hour later, I finally kicked up my feet and flipped through the channels (after some GRUESOME NEGOTIATIONS) - - - while the girls disappeared upstairs to play....... (They actually play ANYWHERE in the house but today they decided that it was more fun upstairs)...
After about a half hour..........I realized that I could actually hear myself laughing at the comedy shows I was watching and if your kids are like MY KIDS - you know they're up to something when it gets REALLLLLLY QUIET like that!...
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So up the stairs I go.... only to find my little monsters perched up next to the window sill in our guest room going *SNAP*-happy with our camera!
Can you believe I even heard the words: "Say cheese!!!:"????? ....(*SHUDDERS*)....
.... Mind you this was cute at first but - I quickly remembered the fate of our FIRST camera when it found it's way into Coretta's hands not too long ago. And to think, people STILL look at me like I'm crazy when I hand her that "broken" camera and tell her that it's hers because it LOOKS okay and is definitely pricey - - - - - - but the damage is beyond repair.
Trust me - we've tried!......
I don't know about you but concrete floors, dishwashers, fridges, and our beloved kiddie pool are just A COUPLE of things the poor device has had to endure while in her possession - - - - So please..... do the following if you can relate:
PLEASE OBSERVE 15-SECONDS OF SILENCE IN REMEMBRANCE OF ALL LOST ELECTRONICS DUE TO THE CUTE and "inevitably destructive" SOPHISTICATION OF OUR BELOVED TODDLERS.
1.............2.......................................15. ***tear***
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Now below are a few snapshots I uploaded from our camera after it's "confiscation":.... I swear these are all by the hand of our little "15yr old in a 2yr old's body" daughter Coretta.
and i HAVE to admit... for a 2yr old, she actually seems to have an eye for it....dontchya THINK???....
now you know why we NEVER answer our phone...
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RISE AND SHINE!!!
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Then did the whole breakfast routine......diaper and potty-trip routine.....put on Disney routine....YADI YADI YADA.
An hour later, I finally kicked up my feet and flipped through the channels (after some GRUESOME NEGOTIATIONS) - - - while the girls disappeared upstairs to play....... (They actually play ANYWHERE in the house but today they decided that it was more fun upstairs)...
After about a half hour..........I realized that I could actually hear myself laughing at the comedy shows I was watching and if your kids are like MY KIDS - you know they're up to something when it gets REALLLLLLY QUIET like that!...
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So up the stairs I go.... only to find my little monsters perched up next to the window sill in our guest room going *SNAP*-happy with our camera!
Can you believe I even heard the words: "Say cheese!!!:"????? ....(*SHUDDERS*)....
.... Mind you this was cute at first but - I quickly remembered the fate of our FIRST camera when it found it's way into Coretta's hands not too long ago. And to think, people STILL look at me like I'm crazy when I hand her that "broken" camera and tell her that it's hers because it LOOKS okay and is definitely pricey - - - - - - but the damage is beyond repair.
Trust me - we've tried!......
I don't know about you but concrete floors, dishwashers, fridges, and our beloved kiddie pool are just A COUPLE of things the poor device has had to endure while in her possession - - - - So please..... do the following if you can relate:
PLEASE OBSERVE 15-SECONDS OF SILENCE IN REMEMBRANCE OF ALL LOST ELECTRONICS DUE TO THE CUTE and "inevitably destructive" SOPHISTICATION OF OUR BELOVED TODDLERS.
1.............2.......................................15. ***tear***
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Now below are a few snapshots I uploaded from our camera after it's "confiscation":.... I swear these are all by the hand of our little "15yr old in a 2yr old's body" daughter Coretta.
and i HAVE to admit... for a 2yr old, she actually seems to have an eye for it....dontchya THINK???....
the evidence was very helpful....
I'd know those chubby white feet ANYWHERE!
now you know why we NEVER answer our phone...
view of our neighborhood from my bedroom window...
view of our backyard from our guest room window...
thankS for viewing my 2yr old's FIRST (self-made) photo album.
HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TO ALL YOU MOTHERS OUT THERE.
5/6/09
the art of potty training
What comes to your mind when ......
You go in to check on your 2yr old who has disappeared for a whole minute to go "potty" - - - - - - - - - - to find her just as you left her in there - - - - except - - - - now she's flipping through a newspaper - and is quite enthused by what she's "reading or looking at"...hmm????
"Are you finished?", I asked.
"No. Go away." -straightens out the paper and brings it up closer to her face so that I am out of sight.
You go in to check on your 2yr old who has disappeared for a whole minute to go "potty" - - - - - - - - - - to find her just as you left her in there - - - - except - - - - now she's flipping through a newspaper - and is quite enthused by what she's "reading or looking at"...hmm????
"Are you finished?", I asked.
"No. Go away." -straightens out the paper and brings it up closer to her face so that I am out of sight.
*WOW*
Luckily for me, my camera wasn't too far away so I snapped the evidence of my most random experience in the "art of the potty training".
But I shall keep it off of the internet because of it's nature (-the girl is on the toilet seat for crying out loud) - but I swear - - - - - these kids NEVER cease to amaze me!...
and I love every minute of every moment with them!