Cute cousins

Lori and Ryan came out to stay with us for a few days while she had to go to some training for work. Ryan and Alisha had a blast together, cracking each other up like only another 4 year old could. We went to a pumpkin patch and they had fun playing with the baby animals and going through the hay tunnels.

12 Years and Counting!

Twelve years. That's a whole dozen. Even longer than Bush has been in office. Longer than 24 Hollywood marriages. We even outlasted our Belgian waffle maker. And that's saying something, since we really put that thing to good use!

Why do I love Chris? Chris is my favorite person. He was my best friend even before our first kiss. I can talk to him about anything. He supports me in every crazy idea I get. He is patient and understanding and doesn't get mad at me for not hanging up my clothes or for not making him dinner every night. He willingly jumps in and helps wherever necessary. He's definitely not the "Ward Cleaver" type to walk in, set down his briefcase, and expect dinner hot and waiting on the table. He regularly walks in the door from work while the girls are in the tub, rolls up his sleeves, and helps out right away to get them out and ready for bed.

He is one of the most intelligent people I know. He remembers EVERYTHING he ever learned. Five minutes after I take my final, everything falls out of my brain. He studies so hard (I guess the right way versus my last minute cramming) that he retains it all. He can see things from a different perspective and helps me see things in new ways.

He has a goofy sense of humor. He makes me laugh with his observations. We always have a good time together, regardless of the situation. He is very even tempered and doesn't get mad easily. He patiently assesses the situation and deals with it.

We are a good match, because we even each other out. We make each other laugh and we appreciate so many of the same things. He's one of the few men I know that is interested in opera, classical music, and theater. He also looks incredible in a suit!

What an amazing guy! And I'm so lucky to have him in my life.

First day of school

Awww, aren't they cute? They are getting so big!

Megan just started 3rd grade this year. Megan has a male teacher now, and is really excited. He's a seasoned teacher, and he's really comfortable with his style and laid back. The kids really seem to like him so far. They are even asking him for more homework. He must be a superhero!

Alisha is in her final year of preschool and will be at Megan's school next year. She's really excited to be back at preschool with some friends from last year. It was really cute to see them yelling to each other and running towards each other. She's especially excited for their P.E. time and the teacher Mr. Dave. She actually cried (sobbed) at the end of the school year last year, because she was going to miss Mr. Dave so much. She didn't cry about any of her friends, just him. The kids all think he's hilarious and just love him.

They are so excited to be back in school, and I'm sure will do a great job this year!

Still playing around

I'm still figuring this site out, so bear with me. This summer has been so great so far. It's been incredibly lazy. We have been going to the park, the library, the pool, reading, playing XBox, and just doing what we feel like doing.

A couple of weeks ago, we went to San Diego on a much needed family vacation. Hopefully I can figure out how to upload some pictures here. We went to Sea World and loved it! The shows were just amazing with the dolphins, the sea lions, and of course, the killer whales with Shamu. The girls were just in awe and both want to be dolphin trainers when they grow up. Well, at least Megan does. Alisha just goes along with whatever Megan says. There was a new kid's area with Sesame Street characters, and even a few rides for the littler kids. We also spent some time at the beach and a children's discovery museum. We didn't have an itinerary, we just relaxed and had a good time together.

Are we there yet?

The marathon was a smashing success. We had a great time in Hawaii, and it was definitely needed in more ways than one.

My favorite part was crossing the finish line. I started to cry when I realized that I finally accomplished this goal that I've thought about and wanted to do for close to 20 years. It took a lot of dedication and hard work, and I did it. Running has never come too easily for me. Even now, it's not "natural" and I don't feel like I"have to" run. But I love love love the feeling when I am done. It's a great feeling of accomplishment and overcoming my weakness.

My 2nd favorite part was laying on Waikiki Beach 2 days after the marathon. The weather was perfect. I was laying there and thinking about getting our bags packed, getting to the airport, etc. And I realized how stupid I was. Here I am on one of the most gorgeous beaches in the world, and I'm still not HERE. I shut off my brain, and just enjoyed BEING THERE for the next hour. It was so serene, it was wonderful.