HANA HOU

California Trip 2010 Slideshow

2010-08-03T08:41:00.001-06:00

We were given the opportunity to go to California with Eddie's parents this June.

It was a great trip and we had so much fun.

We were able to visit Eddie's aunt and her family in Fallbrook, CA.

We also got to visit the grave of my Grandpa Purcell in Cypress, CA and visit Redd family up in San Bernadino, CA.

And we also got to spend time with Eddie's other aunt and her family that lives with us in Colorado.

It was a wonderful trip and thank Grandma and Grandpa Redd for helping us get there!

We Love You!

California Trip 2010 Slideshow: "TripAdvisor™ TripWow ★ California Trip 2010 Slideshow ★ to Denver, San Diego and La Jolla by Maldonado Family. Stunning free travel slideshows on TripAdvisor"

On the Move

2010-02-18T21:29:00.004-07:00

FYI:

BABY TAYVIN IS ON THE MOVE!!!!
YES! HE IS CRAWLING...FOR THE MOST PART.
JUST YESTERDAY HE WAS ON ALL FOURS, ROCKING AND THEN FLINGING HIMSELF ON HIS BELLY TO TRY TO REACH THINGS A FOOT AWAY...

BUT TODAY WHILE SITTING ON THE FLOOR, EDDIE HAD GOT UP AND WALKED TO THE OTHER ROOM AND LEFT THE REMOTE CONTROL SITTING ABOUT 3-4 FEET AWAY FROM TAYVIN...AND THE LITTLE BOOGER ACTUALLY CRAWLED ON ALL FOURS TO GET THE REMOTE...IN ONE TRY!!!

I'M HAPPY THAT MY LITTLE ONE IS STARTING TO REACH MILESTONES, BUT SAD THAT HE'S NOT GOING TO BE A BABY FOR LONG!

The Big 10

2010-02-17T22:10:00.004-07:00

Kainoa Maldonado

This post is dedicated to you, my son.

10 years have passed since you came into this world. I can't believe it's been that long...one whole decade!

You have grown up so much and your dad and I are so proud of you. You are such a loving and compassionate person.

You are always wanting to make your parents happy.

You make us laugh with all the silly things you do and you make us cry when you accomplish all your goals.

Although you fight with your brother at times, you two play and talk together as brothers should do.

Your sister is the odd one out at times, but she watches what you do all the time and tries to keep up as best as she can, and for the most part, you let her.

And you make your baby brother always laugh with excitement when you pass his way.

You are a bright boy. We are always amazed at the things you learn and the things you strive to accomplish.

We don't know many 10 year olds who will get up at 6 in the morning to go running with their dad in the cold winter air!

Your knowlege in school and in church are amazing.

You are our hard worker. Keep it up and you will go many places my son.

You are amazing!

We love you dearly!

Happy Birthday

Kainoa

February 11, 2010

10 years old!! Yahoo!!

Finally...a post!

2009-12-30T14:12:00.002-07:00

We I'm ashamed...it's been nearly 4 months since my last post. I really am a sorry blogger! Going back to work in August, baby being at home, Eddie losing his job and the many more of life's happenings have just discouraged my blogging time...I know, BIG EXCUSE, but hopefully with the new year, I'll get my act together! Here's just a few photos of the little guy, (whom might I add, is not little anymore!) and the kids that we took on Christmas Eve.

Tayvin 6 months old

Ooops I fell over!

Happy Little Tay

His favorite thing to do now...clap, clap, clap!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!

(The lady at the camera store said the baby looked like he was flipping off the camera!!LOL)

Here's lookin' at you kid!

2009-08-24T21:21:00.006-06:00

RANDOMNESS OF LIFE
"Serious, I'm on hold?"

"Duck what?"

Miss Americas of '08

Someone forgot to brush

" What you lookin at?"

Open wide

"Do I know you?"

AWWW

"Smile for the camera"

"Here we are, over here!"

"No pictures at this time please!"

Can you tell who's from the same family?

"Can you see me now?"

"WATCH ME DANCE NOW!"

Tayvin's Blessing

2009-08-24T18:57:00.002-06:00

Tayvin's Blessing

August 2, 2009

Since many family members surprised us by coming into town the last week in July, we decided it would be a great opportunity for us to go ahead and bless the baby.

Uncle Michael (who was leaving for college the next day) was able to attend and also Auntie Yannick and Auntie Charmay and Auntie Shnaiah and Auntie Holly and all the kiddos from Utah who had come into town for a funeral and Tayvin's Welcoming Party were able to attend as well. We are so grateful for all the love we have from friends and families near and far. It was great to see and be with everyone. And it was even more special to celebrate the blessing of our new one.

The kids and I (Daddy was there, but he left right after the blessing)

Mamo and Booboo and the grandkids

The Purcell Clan + Tayvin

Some of the wonderful family members we had come share our blessing day with!

Front Row: Taliah, Lexi, Jaedyn, Naia, Lafai, Kainoa, Lilliana, Tayvin in Mamo's(aka Ariane) arms, Grandma Charlotte, Shnaiah with Kale'a in arms

Back Row: Holly, Melody with Xavier in arms, Marisa, Michael, Me, Marcus(hiding behind my head), Eric, Charmay, Yannick, Booboo(aka Gordon).

Bells A Ringin' for...

2009-08-16T21:19:00.003-06:00

Mr. and Mrs. Eric Purcell

Eric and Shannon

Married August 5, 2009

Congratulations to my little brother Eric and his newly wife Shannon. They were married this month. I wish them a happy, loving life together along with little ms. Bentley!

First Dance

Eric waiting for his bride
(I didn't get the bride coming down the aisle because my camera batteries went dead!)

Mom and Dad getting ready for the event

Eric and Shannon with Tayvin at their engagement BBQ

(and me stuffing my face! NICE!)

A New Edition

2009-07-09T22:12:00.005-06:00

Tayvin Michael Tamatoa Maldonado

June 28, 2009

8lbs 4 oz

20 3/4"

Our newest edition to our family came to us on June 28, 2009 at 1:48am early on a Sunday morning. We are so happy to have HIM! #4 baby was our "surprise" baby and not knowing whether he was a boy or girl was kind of fun! Although, towards the end of my pregnancy, every one, strangers included, would come up to me and say "are you having a boy?", "Boy?", or "Looks like a boy", well that kinda spoiled it--we were sort of hoping for a girl-so Naia could have a sister, but in all, the boy was just right. No matter if boy or girl, we were blessed to have a healthy baby come join our family!

Tayvin was due to come on July 1, according to our ultrasound due date, but instead came on the original due date given on the first doctor visit- June 28. I also thought that it could come early at first but then I thought, all the others came late, so this one will too. Boy was I wrong.

A trip to Elitch's on the Wednesday before (24th) I think was what kind of set it off. All the walking and wading in the pool area helped move along the labor. The next day I was at the doctor's monitoring the baby due to some bleeding and contracting. Well before you know it Saturday came and I didn't feel well much of the day. It was spent mostly in bed. Contractions started around 4am and were off and on all day. But by 8pm they were coming stronger and more frequent. Eddie had been busy all day long, fixing the toilet, taking kids to Windsor for a track meet, cleaning the yard and attending his mom's for dinner with the kids. He kept checking on me all day and all I could say was "I'm having contractions but they're coming and going, I'm fine". Even my parents, who back from a trip to Utah called and asked how it was going, and I said "nothing yet, some contractions but nothing." Well by 10pm we were on our way to the hospital. Marty asked to join us and I'm glad she did because Eddie passed out an hour after arriving due to his hard days work!

This pregnancy was great. I went in, at 10:45 I was 4cm dialated 75% effaced, 1 1/2 hours later after walking the hall and rocking in the rocking chair I was at 7cm and 90% effaced. 1/2 hour later I was a 9 and was able to push because I was "stretchy"! About 9 or so pushes (would have been less pushes if I hadn't forgotten how to "bare down" and push correctly, but after some coaching from the dr and nurse I got it back) and he was out! Our beautiful little boy! Oh yeah by 9 cm Eddie was up and took over what his mother had helped with-a pissed off lookin wife cuz she did it with no meds! - I even kind of yelled at him to help hold my leg up- I was loosing energy quick--and wanted the baby out fast! He told me "If looks could kill!" Well I could've done worse and broke his bones! But he's lucky!

So only a few short hours of hospital labor and baby arrived!

Healthy and Happy!

He is such a blessing to our family. The kids love their new little brother and Naia, the little mommy, doesn't seem to mind at all that it's not a sister!

Naia, the big sister, with new brother Tayvin

Our 4 beautiful children!

Mommy with baby!

Tayvin-1 day old

Tayvin with his eyes open!

Sleepy Taytay with big brother, Jaedyn

"SuperGrandma" aka Great Grandma Connie with Tayvin-1 week old

Daddy and Kainoa playing with Tayvin

Little Brother's Graduation

2009-07-09T19:16:00.007-06:00

SENIORS

"2009"

HIGHLANDS RANCH HIGH SCHOOL

Michael, the graduate, and all his nieces and nephews minus Bentley.

They're so proud of you Uncle Michael!

This was the last year for Mamo and Booboo to be parents of a high school student. They have had children in high school since 1993, with no breaks! Yikes - 16 years with annoying high school teenagers-so sorry! Hey, I guess you could say they've graduated!! Now if only they can get them through college!! Fat chance-at least they had one child finish college! (yay Yannick!)

3 graduates
Dylan, Sam and Michael

Purcell Boys

Michael with us gals

Fortunately, big sis Yannick got to come into town to join us in the festivities of gradutation. She's always a joy to have home.

She always smiled when the camera was around,

gave kisses to everyone,

and never disappointed anyone's home cooked meals!

Naia and Lafai

Kainoa and Lilli

But neither did the kids!!!

(We ate a delicious meal at the Golden Corral - being 8 months prego I sure did enjoy, of course, I'm not going to post any pics of me piggn out!)

CAN'T KEEP UP...STILL!

2009-05-17T21:16:00.002-06:00

I'm officially the lousiest blogger I've decided. It's been almost 5 months since I last blogged! YIKES! I'm so bad. I thought maybe with this being on the computer and not have to write it out, like my journal, things would go a lot smoother!.........NOPE! What the heck's my problem? Well there's been much going on in our little world but now would not be the time to expand! So I'll just let you know (which most of you probably already know) the most important news of our family. That is, we will be expecting a new family member in July, and no that isn't counting the already 6 new pets we added in March. (6 goldfish) Yes one new one to add the family. We are very blessed and excited and can't wait to see this little one. So you may not get many pictures, but I'll try to post more about what's going on in our busy lives! So hope you all are doing well in your own lives. Till next time..(hopefully that's tomorrow or at least less than 5 months from now!)

Mamo & Booboo & Grandkids

2009-01-08T00:14:00.003-07:00

Mamo & Booboo

With the Kiddos: Naia, Lilliana, Leilani, Jaedyn, Kainoa & Lafai

Purcell Family Pics 2008

2009-01-07T23:46:00.004-07:00

Purcell Family Pictures 2008

Hope you enjoyed them!

There were a lot more,

but here are these for now!

uh..Halloween??

2009-01-07T23:33:00.003-07:00

Okay, yes I know it's the new year already, and I'm only now posting the Halloween pictures! I've been slacking. Can't seem to keep up alright. But here goes...I've got to do this so maybe next week I can get to Thanksgiving, and then Christmas and then New Year and then so on!! Hopefully I'll be done by next Christmas! Just kidding.

Well this year for Halloween we had a vampire, little red riding hood and a soccer player. So creative, huh? I'm just not that into it I guess! But they had a blast figuring out what they wanted to be, thanks to Grandma Marty(that's who supplies the costumes annually). They had good fun like usual. We trick-or-treated with cousins and friends, ate lots of candy, and hit the hay shortly after. It was great!

Back...again!

2008-10-22T22:34:00.003-06:00

Then: Horace Mann Middle School

Now: Trevista @ Horace Mann ECE-8

Never in a million years would I ever have thought I'd be back in my old middle school stomping grounds...as a STAFF member!!

Yup, back...again...only cuz it pays the bills!! Just Kidding!

Yes, many many moons ago, I once attended Horace Mann Middle School as a teenie weenie! Now, almost 30!, I'm here once again as a para! Boy does it bring back memories, especially ones that I'd thought I'd forgotten for good. It's amazing how different things trigger certain memories!

Well no longer is it a middle school, but it is in it's first year as a ECE-8 school. It's very strange to see 4 year olds mixed in with 14 year olds. (Well actually, the 14yos act like 4 yos) I worked at Remington Elementary last year and was fortunate continue my job this year at this school. It's really funny because after all these years, there is one person that is still here that I knew back in middle school. Mrs. B was and still is a para here. And I work with her!! How funny life is sometimes.

Well, the job is hard at times. I'm trying to adjust to the middle school aged children here. I always told myself I would NEVER work in a middle school, yet here I am..with middle school aged kids. But at least I have the younger kids to keep me sane! At least Naia (who is an ECE student here) can say she went to the same school as mommy!!!
So here's to a new school year!!! But this time I'm NOT the student!!

YOU GOTTA LOVE DA KIDDOS!

2008-09-22T00:33:00.002-06:00

On a recent venture to McDonalds, our 4 year old, Naia, graciously asked to give the prayer before going in. We were a little taken back by the fact that the 4 year old had to halt us with her little lungs from the back, back seat and remind all of us the important duty of prayer. Eddie and I looked at each other with an "uh oh, our child is reminding us of what we should be reminding them!" look and happily said, "Sure, go ahead, Naia!"

So she proceeded with a very proud tone and began her prayer...She thanked Heavenly Father for the day and the somewhat repetitious things four year olds have the capacity to remember to tell and ask Heavenly Father. She asked for all her family to be good, and then for mommy, daddy and Kainoa and Jaedyn to be safe and not die...which is so sweet to say...but then...(which I think was the funniest yet sweetest thing to say) she went on to say, "and please bless mommy so that she can be a princess!" OH I LOVE THIS GIRL! How kind and dear that my child wishes that I could be a princess! I expected her to ask is SHE could be a princess, but yet she asked if her mommy could be one. Oh bless her little heart! How children touch your heart in unexpected ways! You gotta love the kids!

** PRINCESS **

Back to School

2008-09-07T22:23:00.002-06:00

It's back to school for us. And boy is it BUSY! We're back into the swing of things and the older they get, the harder it is. Kainoa has now entered 3rd grade. Mrs. Zott is his teacher. He is enjoying it a lot. Although, being the child of Eddie Maldonado, he sure has taken after him in his schoolroom manners-he messes around a lot. Yup, just like his daddy, I say. I should know, because I did attend class with Mr. Maldonado. They are smart boys, but like to mess around a little too much at times. Kainoa has a lot on his plate this 3rd grade year. Lot's of homework this year and it sure isn't easy. But I'm sure it'll be a great year for him!

Jaedyn is now entering 1st grade. Having been in all day Kinder, he is used to the longevity of the school day. His teacher is Ms. Herrera(Kainoa/Lilli's 1st grade teacher too). He likes school and I'm glad. Although, he too, takes after the men in the family. They all like to mess around and unfortunately it gets them in trouble, especially at school. But he is doing well with his work.
Kainoa and Lilli on the first day of school

Big brother with little sis
Little big brother with little sis

This is Naia

(sorry for the sideways pic)

And this is her first year of school. She goes to ALL day ECE. She was so excited. This picture was taken when she came home from her first day. A little rough lookin' and it was a little rough for her also. She is defintely my child. Very shy and likes to cry A LOT. She's had a hard time saying goodbye in the mornings, but it's gradually getting better. I can visit her during the day now without her crying when it's time for me to go. So the going is slow, but if you ask her she says she likes it.

So things are very, very busy in our household. Mommy is back to work. Daddy is working 2 jobs and is in charge of the children (getting to school etc.) during the day. Kids are in school and homework piles during the week. Soccer for all three kids is underway. And all the things inbetween make life a bit hectic. But it's all worth it in the long run.

Babies Galore!

2008-08-16T15:41:00.004-06:00

Well...there are so many babies coming into this world within the next few months to mothers I know and some are already here. It's so very exciting! Here's a little run down of people I know right now that have or will be having little bundles of joy!

Cousin Gigi - had a little girl, Tehani
Cousin Holly(cousins' wife) - had a little boy(few hours ago), ? name
Friend Steph - had a little boy, Marcus
Friend Becca - had a little boy, Austin (and many of her sisters have also had babies within the last few months; many which I've met)
Cousin Charmay - will be having a girl, we think, in October
Cousin Stephanie (cousin' wife) - will be having a girl, in September
Friend Bernie - will be having a boy, in December, Xavier
Friend Kimi - will be having a baby, not sure when Nov??
Cousin Bianca(Eddie's cousin) - will be having a baby, not sure when
Cousin Kawika - had a little boy, Kani?

That's my list, for now anyway. Who knows who will be next and when. Can't wait to see all these little bebes.

Summer's Gone

2008-08-06T08:56:00.005-06:00

Summer's come and gone! (actually summer's still here, summerbreak is gone) Now it's time to go back to school and back to work. It was a nice summer. The kids are ready to go back to school. I wish it would a last a little longer but oh well. We all had a great summer. Here are some pictures of what went on this past season...

GYMNASTICS

Lilliana's gymnastics meet

WATER PARKS

okay, this is an Arvada park... that has water spouts, but the kids loved to play here during the hot weather and a broken swamp cooler

FRIENDS

We were able to visit with many friends far and near this summer which is always very nice. Here are good friends Mara and Ryan visiting Colorado

FOOTBALL

This summer we were able to blast to the past...

we were able to go to my brothers' semipro football games 'Mile High Grizzlies'. It was very entertaining to watch cousins Shane, Zach, Issaiah, and brothers Marcus and Eric, all play on the same team.

FAMILY TRIPS

Our family was able to do lots of things together this summer! Like going on car trips, going on bike rides, going to restaurants, going to new swimming pools and stuff like that! There's nothing like being together!

SWIMMING!!!

Kainoa, Lilliana and Issac
Naia
Everyone, swimming at Marie's!! This was the place to be this summer! Thank you to Marie for letting us use her swimming pool. The kids loved it.

Haircuts

2008-07-30T23:40:00.002-06:00

BEFORE...

I like to have my boys hair a little longer than most...see picture below. I don't know, I just like to see them with hair at this age because I'm sure once their older, they'll want it shaved or faded and stuff. So I keep it longer. The last time their grandpa took them to get their haircut and came back with a shaved head, I freaked..

AFTER...
I figured, why not? So I let it be done. They boys got their haircut... real short. What the hey, it's hot! So here they are with their $3 haircut they received from the opportunity school(the students) that their grandpa works at. It works...

And yes...mommy got a haircut too. They took off like 5/6 inches. I'm willing to sacrifice my hair for a cheap haircut...free(thanks to grandpa minus the $5 tip)!

Track Stars

2008-07-30T23:13:00.003-06:00

July 26, 2008 was the boys State Cara Track meet. It was held up in Longmont. And I'm so glad we're done with that! Don't get me wrong, I love to watch my boys compete at these things, it's just the early morning practices and Saturday meets kinda gets old after awhile.

The boys did great. We are so very proud of them. They ended up being finalists in 4 events, which is very impressive considering there are hundreds of kids that compete.

Kainoa: Baseball Throw-2nd Place, 5th place finalist; 50m run-2nd place(in his heat)8th place finalist; 800m run-5th place finalist

Jaedyn: Baseball Throw-2nd place; Standing Long Jump-2nd place, 5th place finalist; 100m dash- 3rd place; 50m dash-1st place(in his heat)

This was Kainoa's 3rd year running for Wheat Ridge Cara Track Team and Jaedyn's 1st year.

They did enjoy this summer of track and running--everywhere!

Boys had lots of support at their last meet of the summer. Mamo, Grandma and Grandpa, and Teri were there to bare the heat with us!
Kainoa running the 50m
Jaedyn running the 50m
Kainoa preparing for the 800m (he likes to get down, why, I don't know)
The boys showing off their some of their ribbons.

It's been fun running...

...Til next year!

WHAT... I'm IT??

2008-07-29T19:35:00.002-06:00

Dangit...I try to avoid these things but I guess I've been TAGGED, I'm IT(especially when my name is actually there in colored letters!) So okay, I'll play this time..

Here's an ABC tag I was hit with...
A: Attached or Single? Attached 6 years
B: Best Friend? My Sis
C: Cake or Pie? Any kind cake
D: Day of the week? Any day that I can just relax
E: Essential Item? glasses...then I'd be blind
F: Favorite Color? Depends on the day-lots of them
G: Gummy Bears or Worms? don't matter to me
H: Hometown? Denver, CO(although born in Hawaii I wish I could claim there as my hometown but its not)
I: Indulgence? Sweets
J: January or July? July, I love the warm or I should say HOT these days, weather not too hot though
K: Kids? No thank you...ohh wait yes I have three he he he
L: Life isn't complete without? I don't know..my life isn't complete..can't answer that
M: Marriage Date? January 19, 02
N: Number of Brothers and Sisters? 3 brothers, 1 sister.
O: Oranges or Apples? Uhh...What about lychee?
P: Phobias or Fears? Socializing and people thinking I'm stupid
Q: Quote? I don't have a fav quote
R: Reasons to smile? My families accomplishments
S: Superman or Wonderwoman? Wonderwoman...I wish I could look that good in lingerie, boots, a cape and a crown!
T: Tag five people: Uhh whoever wants to do it, I tag you...1,2,3,4,5
U: Unknown fact about me? Can't tell then it wouldn't be unknown..j/k I'm not sure
V: Vegetables? Which ever tastes good at the moment
W: Worst Habit? Too much tv and computer time and inactivity
X: X-ray or Ultrasound? Ultrasound
Y: Your favorite food? Donuts..or also different types of food.
Z: Zodiac sign? I'm a fish.. Pisces

Nana & Baba

2008-07-23T01:32:00.002-06:00

Nana & Baba

My mom's parents, Odile and Herman, aka Nana and Baba are the backbone to my mom's side of the family. I have been blessed to have such wonderful grandparents from both sides of my family. They all are wonderful examples, loving and kind.

You see, Nana and Baba live in Hawaii and it is anyone's dream to visit there at least once in a lifetime. I was extremely lucky(according to all my friends) to have had the opportunity to spend summers with Nana & Baba. Having a dad that worked for the airlines sure did have it's benefits. Long summers with Nana and Baba in paradise was the life for sure!!

Well, no longer are the days of going to the beach all day, eating McDonalds whenever, yummy long john's (pastries), dancing in front of RECORDING camcorders to silly songs, free movies from Uncle Allen(yeah!!), adventures of a tourist and exhausting Nana & Baba to where they actually slept in after 8am!

But hearing their voice over the phone comforts me and brings me back to all my happy memories as a child growing up. I always miss my Nana and Baba because they are so far away but oppotunities to talk with them are very important. Visits are rare and few between but getting to see them is always wonderful and special. I love them for who they are and what they have taught me and will always be grateful for their love and strength.Nana and Baba with the great-grandkids

L-R:Lafai, Jaedyn, Naia, Kainoa, Leilani and Lilliana

Nana and Baba with grandkids

Marcus, Yannick, Eric, Michael, Ginette

Nana, Yannick and I

6 year olds

2008-07-21T00:38:00.002-06:00

Well it's round 2 of the 6 year old phase for me. I have no idea why, but for some reason, this time it's a whole lot different. My six year old has been
a)more whinnier..
b)more crybabier..
c)more lazier..
d)more stubbornier..
e)more needier..
...so for all you moms out there who can lend some help..please feel free to let me know what I'm doing wrong, if it's just a "phase," know of any books that will help, or just want to tell me to suck it up and deal with it, he's your middle child and I need to be more patient and loving and stuff, please do. Thanks for the venting session...and I'll be awaiting your advise!

99 years...STRONG

2008-07-20T20:59:00.003-06:00

Grandma Mabel

99 years

May 10, 2008

Grandma Mabel, my dad's mom, turned 99 years old this past May. We were fortunate to attend the big birthday bash in Utah with all and most of the Purcell clan (her immediate family and their families ). We have been blessed to have such a strong, humble and loving grandma here with us. She teaches us to love, to be thankful and to always follow our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It was a great time to reconnect with cousins and aunts and uncles and bond in a way we all have never really had a chance to do. I am grateful to have such a wonderful family. They all show so much love. I am most grateful to have the chance for my children to have had part in this family reunion and get to know family members who love and care for them as much as I.

Grandma at church with Marcus' kids and my kids

Grandma and her children

Dad(Gordon), Teine, Irwin, Raymond

Grandma and all her grandchildren(and their spouses)

Grandchildren in order: Luhi(not pictured),Gina, Tamalii, Mynette, Tyrone, Ginette, Marcus, Victoria, Yannick, Mabel, Eric, Ammaron, Jarom, Sally, Sarah, Michael(not pictured), Douglas, Shalia, Stephanie

Grandma with children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren

And of course...Grandma with the Purcell Family #2 (since dad is the 2nd boy)

You gotta love this crazy family!

Notice how grandma seems to be the only sane one of the bunch! Don't let her fool you though, she can be wild and crazy too, just not as often as us and maybe that's why she's been here so long!

D2 Primary Temple Trip

2008-07-15T16:22:00.002-06:00

The Denver 2nd Ward Primary visited the Denver Temple this year on May 31, 2008. We had a small showing but for those who were there it was a very neat experience. We toured the temple grounds and learned facts about the temple itself. We also had the opportunity to go into he visitors center and learn more! It was very beautiful. People in attendance were: Vigils, Bennett Family, Maldonado Family(minus Kainoa), Trejo kids, Quintana girls, Molly, Lilly Angelo, Magalei girls+Mia Trujillo, and Bro Humphreys.

Last day in Utah

2008-07-07T23:05:00.003-06:00

So I forgot some pics that I wanted to share from day 2-July 4th.

Jaedyn threw a fit to take pictures with the camera so after he calmed down he was given the camera to take some pics...and this is what he came up with!! He's fired!

This was Adam and the missionaries from his ward doing the Haka during the parade! Wow, pretty cool we got a little show! Too bad we can't remember any faces!

Here's cousins Taliah and Malaya posin' at the park with glow in the dark bracelets!
After a long day, Taliah and Naia enjoy a nice little bubble bath.

Day 3-Last day in Utah
The night before sure wore us out and we all slept in til about 9am. (Except Eddie and Adam who were up playin ball at the church by 7am-yeah Eddie heaved during the game which was quite odd..gee never thought he'd over do it in Utah!) So after breakfast and a little trip to the store(the ladies) while Eddie took the kids to the park we headed out to the Pool.

We had so much fun swimming and dodging the wind by staying in the water that I didn't get any good pictures. So here's Taliah after all the fun waiting to go home-yes she crashed before she even got home!

After showers, dinner and SHAVE ICE (thanks Adam!) we headed home around 10 and arrived back to our house in Colorado at 6am. It was a short trip but well worth fun!

This trip for me was great! I was able to spend time with my family and two of my best friends, my sis Yannick and my cuz Charmay. I love them so much. My family is so blessed to have such wonderful people in our lives. I thank Charmay, Adam and Yannick for always making us feel welcome and showing us a great time. It takes so much out of them to accommodate our somewhat big family. Thank you to you guys we love you and til next year...maybe.

Day 2 of Utah Trip

2008-07-07T22:43:00.003-06:00

Okay...so please bare with me. I'm having trouble with my pictures.

Here is day 2-July 4th, 2008 in Utah

Here's Jaedyn at the Finish line of the annual Freedom Run in Provo.
Uncle Adam, Auntie Yannick, Eddie, Kainoa and Sam all participated in the 5k Freedom Run! They all finished!
After the Freedom Run we were able to watch the Parade in Provo under an awesome tent that Auntie May and Uncle Adam so graciously put up at 12 in the morning the night before!

(May and Adam you guys rock! Thanks for the shade!)

Here are Taliah and Naia posing with Cinderella during the Parade. It was kinda funny how every girl and their mama was trying to get pics(look carefully in the background) with all the princesses during the parade! Naia shyly came up to me after and said, can I go take a picture with Snow White now! She really must have enjoyed stopping the parade to take this pic!
After a much needed nap we all went to the park and had us some hamburgers and hotdogs(that never seemed to go away after that!) and other yummy food. We played games and enjoyed lighting some fire works and watching the fire works show from the Stadium of Fire. The kids had so much fun with Taliah, Sam and Malaya. They always remember things like this.

4th of July in Utah

2008-07-07T16:59:00.010-06:00

Well after persuasion (by Auntie Charmay) and much pondering we decided to head out to Utah for the long holiday weekend. I really shouldn't say LONG because we were only there 2 days altogether. Last year, we had surprised my sister (auntie) Yannick for her birthday which is on the 3rd of July, and stayed and joined her and my cousin (auntie) Charmay and family for the 4th of July festivities.It was so much fun the once again we traveled the grusome 7-8 hour trip over the Rockies to Orem, Utah!
We arrived in Utah around 4pm on the 3rd of July in time to attend Yannick's Surprise B-day Party that Charmay and Alyssa(Yannick's roomie) put together! Of course, she got off early and Kana(Yannick's old roomie) had to stall til more people arrived. We (my family+Taliah) hid in a room and surprised Yannick when she opened the door. Honestly, it was the lamest surprise ever but whatevahs! Ask Yannick, maybe she WAS surprised.

Here's Taliah (Charmay's daughter) helping Yannick blow out her candles on her ONO fruit pie that Alyssa made....YUMMY!
Malaya, Kana, Yannick, Crystal, Kaui and Alyssa!(Sorry if names are spelled wrong!)
Friends!

NEEK and her cake.

2008-06-30T00:30:00.003-06:00

And Naia..Field Day-Cheerleader 08

Kainoa at Field Day-2nd Grade 08(running of course)

It's not track...but this is Jaedyn at Field Day-Kindergarten 08

No Pictures...Bummer!

2008-06-29T22:55:00.002-06:00

Well I have no pictures to show for this entry. I'm really disappointed. I have a camera, but it's a pretty big camera with a big lens and doesn't fit snuggly into my purse or pocket. Let's just say it has it's own bag! So I forgot it this weekend and this weekend was pretty eventful. And no pictures...so I'll just recap the weekend...in writing! (Boring I know-pictures make it so much more!)
Friday Night-
Bentley's Birthday Party(Eric's girlfriend's daughter) She turned 3 and had a party at her grandparent's house. Let's just say once we passed through the gates of the community we were in another world! Oh my goodness...no I mean OH MY GOODNESS. I've never stepped into a house like this one ever before. (charmay-even the COY's house wasn't this nice!) Yeah so we get to go play and swim and party in the basement of this house (yeah i said basement). Can we say humungus! The basement was bigger than my whole house! They had a game room, movie theatre, weight room, pool, bar(bigger than my kitchen!) WOW! That's all I can say. But the kids had so much fun playing pinball and swimming. We partied til about 11pm and headed home for a eventful Saturday.
Saturday-
7am we were up (with lots of grumbles and "I don't want to get up"s) and out to Windsor, CO for the boys CARA Track Meet. Early mornings are just not my thing-so yeah I over slept and we rushed to get out. But we were able to make it on time. The boys did a great job. It really amazes me how dedicated they are to this at the ages they are. Sometimes you don't get much out of 6 and 8 year old boys when it comes to getting up for early morning practices during the summer, or doing your best when you're tired. But they do. I'm so proud of them. I know Eddie is extremely proud of them also. They are lucky to have a dad to show them these kind of activities and to encourage and teach them the little things to help them succeed in this area. I'm a crappy runner so I'm glad they've found something they enjoy doing. Anyways...Kainoa: 2nd place-baseball throw; 2nd place- 800m; 4th place-400m...Jaedyn:2nd place-softball throw; 2nd place-50m dash; 6th place-100m; 3rd place-6x50m relay. By noon we were off to our next destination...Cheyenne, WY. We decided to go and visit Eddie's grandma-Grandma Marion- since we were that much closer. We hadn't visited yet this year. So off we were. We got to visit her and she seemed happy to see the kids and have some company-even though she's a bit of a social bug herself without us. The kids got to ride the infamous-Grandma's Riding Mower! Eddie and Ruby have been riding in Grandma's big yard for years...yes and we always hear the story of when Ruby rode so much that the neighbor had to call grandma to tell her that was enough! (But hey..what else is there to do in WY!!LOL) So after the riding we got to catch the last part of SuperSaturday at the city park in town. It was a bit exciting with big inflatables and booths and stuff to do. We were late and by the time we got there closing time had approached. But we were able to buy some yummy kettlecorn! and catch a few rides. But sadly..we had lost our grandma during our partial fun time. She had caught a ride into the park and we couldn't find her. Well Eddie had totally missed her in the area we told her we would meet her...we because she was actually IN line to the trampoline station..the only place he didn't look. IN line. She was trying to save a spot for the kids. What a nice grandma! But after that adventure in the park we went to the park to play after which we had dinner and then went to another park to play on the playground(see. not much to do in good ol WY). But in all we had a great time. Headed home and was there by 9, which we were greated by a visit from Auntie Ruby. Then it was to bed for church in the morning!
It was a great weekend and everyone had fun!

Let's Do This!

2008-06-27T02:02:00.002-06:00

Blogging...huh...well the day has come. I finally threw my hands up and said...let's do this! I figured, everyone else is doing it, why not me? I said to myself...I can do this. I do email, myspace, facebook, why not blog? This sure will be something. So hopefully this will be much more successful than the 10 year journal that sits by my bed unopened, unwritten in (except for the couple important/or yet irritating occassions that occur a year) and lonely. And better yet...everyone will be able to read it. YES, just what I need. But it'll be good...I hope.

I have chosen the phrase HANA HOU for my selected blog title. My Baba used to always say it when doing something fun like dancing, singing or other crazy things that were worth doing again. Hana hou means to do it again, repeat, etc. in hawaiian. I thought that this blog would sort of reflect that saying in a ways...

I will write in this blog again and again,

I will write things that I have repeated already

I will renew my memories over and over when I read it

I will repair any mistakes that I have so boldly posted

it is an ecore!

So HANA HOU!