Pitchford Pandemonium

Julianne's Third Year Confirmation Retreat

2012-02-05T21:02:00.000-08:00

She got there on Friday afternoon and got home on Sunday evening- she had a wonderful and very meaningful time and feels prepared to make her Confirmation this May. I am so thankful for everyone that has guided her along the way for the past three years. The youth ministry team at St. Catherine's is fantastic and very dedicated to teens. Thanks also to all that sent her love letters for this past weekend and those that kept her in prayer. We love you. This is Julianne with Chris - who was her Table Leader at the Retreat this past weekend. Love to all.

I love this picture...

2012-01-31T20:42:00.000-08:00

Really proud of Cole - getting high B's - might even pull off A's in the two classes he's taking right now at RCC- doing well as Site Supervisor for Family Service Association and the RUSD HEARTS program at Emerson. He loves his job and is thinking about trying to get another one so he can take on a car payment. He's working toward some good goals right now. I'm really proud of him. Plus, he's awfully handsome. :)

Us

2012-01-28T11:14:00.000-08:00

1988- Phil's Parents' Front Porch

1999- Phil's Parents' Front Porch

Welcome to the World, Julianne

2012-01-23T21:42:00.000-08:00

Well, this is my girl on the day she was born. Perfect. She was born in the morning on September 12 in 1995- it was only 100 degrees that day- miserable. Phil and I were greeted at the hospital by my Dad- he was the only one there. And brave too- because he couldn't even stand to look at a wiggly tooth, let alone the stuff he was about to see. I was already in labor- contractions and all that because I started the night before, but they sent me home on meds to put it off since I already had a C-section scheduled for the morning. Nice. Glad to accommodate them. So, I was hurting and they took me in and there was Dad on one side of me and Phil on the other while they did all kinds of things to the lower part of my body to prep me for surgery while also trying to get a stupid IV in at least 3 different times- again- NICE. I think Dad was probably pretending he was somewhere else just to get through it. But as soon as they finally got me all ready, they wheeled me in, did the spinal and she was here minutes later. Wow. And she was folded completely in half- her feet on either side of her head, legs perfectly straight- she came out that way. What an entrance.

A Little Over a Year Before We Got Married... 1988

2012-01-22T16:28:00.000-08:00

Man, this seems like a long time ago! Look at us! We were so young and oblivious! We had no idea what we were headed into! And now 22 years later we are still chugging along :) Marriage is hard and takes work, but it's a blessing and this man has been very, very good to me. I guess I've done all right by him so far too. :)

We Got a New Scanner!

2012-01-21T23:23:00.000-08:00

I am really excited that Phil went and got a new printer with a scanner today- and got it all hooked up- because this means I can start scanning old pics again- I have so many cool stories to tell!

This is Julianne, who just nonchalantly walked into the kitchen one day with these sock'em boppers on her hands like it was nothing. She was so funny about it. She had an attitude even at this age! :)

Quiet Day

2012-01-16T11:58:00.000-08:00

Phil and I spent the day together yesterday- quiet, walking, eating, no real agenda. Just hanging out.

We haven't done that in ages. It was really, really nice.

The Problem is, I Cook When I'm Bored....

2012-01-14T20:23:00.000-08:00

I really do love to cook, and Cole said he was hungry, so I whipped up these burgers- whole wheat buns, avocado, tomato, grilled onions, melted swiss cheese- two for him- one for me.

And while I was at it, I made these Pumpkin Cake Batter muffins.

De-lish. Sprinkled powdered sugar on top.

MAJOR Childhood Memories

2012-01-04T22:16:00.000-08:00

School shoes. We had to get them every fall. Why didn't we just wear tennis shoes like kids do now? No, we had to wear these ugly things. I remember hating them. Ugh. No style at all. Sensible and durable.

Sun In! Every summer! I wonder if this stuff actually worked, or if we just got sun streaks naturally? We were outside constantly- I bet it was just our hair and the sun the whole time.

This was candy- no medicine at all. One time Annie Mesa and I were EATING these at recess in the 6th grade and I choked- literally choked- on one. She took me to the cafeteria and they gave me a piece of bread and told me to chew it really fast and swallow hard. OMG- it's a wonder I'm not dead.

Kissing Potion- I'm not sure I ever really kissed a boy while wearing this stuff- it was basically scented cooking oil on your lips- so greasy I'm not sure that kissing could really even occur. I loved all the different scents. Of course, you had to collect them. I remember I had a minty one that was my fav.

I think blank cassettes and the tape player were our ultimate toys growing up. We used to plant tape recorders in the house and secretly tape conversations. We TOTALLY used to do that! We were brats. It was so much fun. We also used to write our own plays and record them on audiotape. We even made sound effects. It was so much fun.

I remember this basket on my bike- but I don't really remember my bike- other than it had a banana seat. Of course- It was the 70's.

Every single one of us wore these in our hair.

I remember playing with this exact school bus- and the Fisher Price little people (that are now a choking hazard- that's why they're big and fat now) I loved how when you pulled the bus the little people in the seats would go up and down.

Every single one of us had a ballerina jewelry box.

But I can't remember the tune it played.

This is Grandma Shearer gum. She would always buy it for us and we loved it.

The flavor lasted 10 seconds.

85 Degrees on January 2nd!

2012-01-02T19:34:00.001-08:00

It was so warm today that Julianne and Jairett decided to picnic at the park- shorts and t-shirts and all- they had a great time- and it definitely did not feel like a winter day!

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T10:36:00.000-08:00

We decided to have a bonfire in the backyard on New Year's Eve, so Phil and Cole chopped up a whole bunch of scrap wood, including a broken step ladder- that had been sitting on the side yard - and the Christmas tree.

The weather has been extremely warm- the oranges are ripe and ready- and really juicy!

We have a tradition of having broiled scallops wrapped in bacon every year- so these were Julianne's version- pan fried in garlic butter- sans bacon.

I made Auntie Pam's chicken wings this year. Phil said mine were better! Cole said - no way- Auntie Pam's are the best. Funny- same recipe!

This was the table before some of the other things were put out-

we also had shrimp cocktail- which disappeared pretty quickly.

Newman- also known as the Kitchen Manager- since he is ALWAYS underfoot while anyone is cooking anything- gets snuggles from his brother and sister - on the kitchen floor.

Beautiful (BIG) bonfire. Happy New Year- here's to 2012!

Newman's Christmas Gift

2011-12-31T13:46:00.000-08:00

Here is Newman in his adorable and super cute scarf that he got for Christmas. Can you tell how much he loves it? He is yawning in the second picture. SUCH enthusiasm.

All Her

2011-12-30T22:05:00.000-08:00

Julianne's latest self-portait- in her room.

Auntie Pam's Christmas Gift

2011-12-27T10:03:00.000-08:00

So, we draw names for Christmas each year and I got Auntie Pam. She asked for a popcorn popper. BOOOOOOORRRRRINNNNNG. I knew that Mike and Nicole would be down with Adler (who isn't even one yet) and I knew that it would be a really special time for her to be with her two grandsons this Christmas. Megan and Drew hosted, so we got to hang out at Jameson's house too. I started racking my brain about some sort of keepsake that I could make for her and then I found the PERFECT idea on Pinterest. We made the one with Mike and Adler's handprints at the Christmas party (two takes) and we actually made the one with Megan and Jameson's handprints Christmas morning before Pam got there! (Also two takes!) Baby handprints are difficult! I was really happy with the results and Auntie Pam loved her gifts. I got the result that I wanted. Yay!!!!!

Christmas Eve Chili Lunch at the Petix's

2011-12-24T16:34:00.000-08:00

We have had lunch with Mark and Tena and the Garcia's every Christmas Eve for at least ten years now, probably longer. This is Maggie, whose been around for nine years of it all.

This is Cole with their new puppy, Mollie.

Esther and I have been friends for a very long time. We were kindergarten teachers together and shared a classroom. Now she's an elementary school principal and you know where I am. She is a great friend.

Tena loves getting gifts for the kids from all over the world. She brought things back from Barcelona for the kids- and each kid got a dinner and movie time with Mark and Tena for later on in the year.

Julianne and Cole

Mark is such an easy guy to buy for! Olive oil, cheese - anything food- This year I got him Spanish olive oil. He was, of course, happy.

Julianne opening a beautiful bracelet.

Cole got a chocolate sampler.

We always laugh and talk constantly and tell tons of stories.

Phil and Mollie

Baking Day

2011-12-24T08:51:00.001-08:00

Veronica and her boys and Jeena came over and we baked cookies like machines! We had so much fun together- we had a total plan and we executed it with precision. The amount of cookies that we produced in the time that we did was IMPRESSIVE. We were like elves.

This is Julianne and Jairett- I am pretty sure Jairett is crushing something at this point- I think it might be the 9 Heath bars for the Heath bar cookies.

Jeena was the official chocolate-coater of the peanut butter balls.

Here is the evidence.

Of course, we made old-fashioned sugar cookies too- the kids were meticulous in their decorating and the cookies turned out beautiful.

Veronica made the peanut butter balls, then Rylee and Jairett arranged them in silly patterns while waiting for the chocolate to melt for coating. Silly boys.

These two really enjoy each other's company.

A couple of very impressive young ladies.

Snickerdoodles, Grandma Shearer's peanut butter cookies, Heath bar cookies, Peanut butter balls, Seven Stackers, Red and Green Pinwheels and Sugar Cookies- OH YEAH

Pretty sugar cookies

Beautful Jeena with the tray of cookies ready to take home to her family!

Swartz Christmas Party

2011-12-18T09:42:00.000-08:00

We always have a great time at Stan and Jan's Christmas Party- good times with good friends- here are Philip and Amber - Amber posing nicely and Philip being a goofball :)

These are the yummy Oreo Truffles that I brought to the party

This is Jan opening the gift we got her- carved wooden Three Kings from Spain!

Beautiful Christmas tree

Julianne having a great time

Sweet Laila- she's getting so big, so fast

Silas and his buddy Robbie

This is Brandey and Daniel's niece, Aura- I said, "Smile, Aura!" And she grabbed her

dress and lifted it really fast. So cute.

Me and Stan

Julianne has a head cold so Philip was mocking her voice all night, telling her she sounded like Napoleon Dynamite. These two always have a great time together.

The Philip and Kathy self-portrait- I need to put the ones I have all together,

I'm gathering quite a collection!

Pickin' Out the Tree

2011-12-17T09:35:00.000-08:00

It took us literally 2 minutes to pick out our tree this year. It was COLD and it seems like it's gotten easier- plus we just went for the biggest and most beautiful! I love the smell of a real Christmas tree- we always get a Noble fir- I don't think I could ever get a fake one.

Donated Toys by Silas

2011-12-17T09:11:00.001-08:00

Philip, Amber and Silas helped out some of our families by donating some toys that were no longer played with as much by Silas as they used to be. The moms that they were given to appreciated them so much and were very, very happy! Thanks, Swartz Family!

Poly's Holiday Concert

2011-12-17T09:02:00.000-08:00

Phil wasn't expecting to have to go up in front of everyone- but here he is anyway, being the dedicated Band Dad that he is! Reminding everyone about the Silent Auction taking place in the foyer. What a guy.

Julianne coming on stage for Wind Ensemble. Thanks to Mom, Ken and

Stan for coming out and enjoying the show!

Oscar Mooring, most loved Band Director ever!

Cooper rocking his solo during Jazz Band. It was great!

Both of Us- at the Same Age

2011-12-13T21:07:00.000-08:00

I Love This Picture

2011-12-12T21:22:00.000-08:00

This is Grandma and Grandpa Hatherly- Bob and Tink to their close friends. Of course, Grandma had several names- her mother called her by her given name- Anna Kathleen, some people called her Kathleen, but not very many, some called her Kay- and most everyone she grew up with called her by her nickname- which was Tink. We called her Grandma, but her great-grandkids called her Grammy Tink. Whenever someone called her on the phone, she wanted to know who they asked for so she could narrow down who it might be. Pretty funny. My kids never knew their Great Grandfather- but man, they would have loved him. He was SO MUCH FUN. They affectionately refer to him now as "Crazy Grandpa" because I've told them so many wild stories about him. Uncle Mike is their oldest child and then there was my Dad- Robert Lee Hatherly, Jr. -"Bobby"- Then came Tena and then Pam. They were all so cute, weren't they?

Cole's Little Hand

2011-12-12T20:58:00.000-08:00

Christmas, 1991

2011-12-11T22:06:00.000-08:00

This is a picture taken at the Hatherly Christmas Party at Grandma's house. Can you tell that I'm pregnant? Lord, I still had 3 months to go. Yikes. I'm wearing a decorated men's tuxedo shirt that a friend was making for everyone at the time. They were ALL THE RAGE. Woo...... I love this picture of me and my Mom and Dad. I spent today really missing him. The holidays are tough sometimes.

Raising $ for Poly Band

2011-12-11T14:18:00.001-08:00

Fred Suplee ("Heckle") and Phil ("Jeckle") headed up another fantastic fundraiser for Poly Proud Heritage Marching Band this past Saturday morning at Applebee's. The all you can eat Flapjack Breakfast is a fun and profitable thing for our band to take part in. We made $500 dollars that morning- which was awesome- but what was really SUPER AMAZING- was that an anonymous donation to the band came in that morning- for $2,000! WOW!!!!!!!

Julianne and other band members helped in the kitchen, putting together orders and takin' care o' business behind the scenes. Other kids served as wait staff. They did a great job.

And they had fun!

Santa was even there!

Our band parents know how to have fun! Right Veronica???!!!

Looking Back...

2011-12-11T13:52:00.001-08:00

I was feeling all kinds of "Mommy Guilt" the other day, realizing that I never really took my kids to visit Santa during Christmas time. Then I came across this picture and it all came back to me. They just weren't that into it.

I feel better.

NCL Ticktockers Holiday Tea 2011

2011-12-11T09:17:00.000-08:00

Julianne and I have been part of National Charity League since she was in the 8th Grade. The Holiday Tea is a required event that is fun and festive, but also philanthropic. NCL is a non-profit national organization of mothers and daughters who work together in community involvement. It is a program of philanthropic work, educational activities and cultural events.

All proceeds from the Holiday Tea silent auction of the teacups and the other holiday items go to a specific, agreed upon charity.

Part of being a Ticktocker is learning about conducting yourself in society- so for events like this, formal written RSVP's are required and the girls are expected to contribute certain things according to the year that they are currently in. For example, in the 8th grade, we made all of the nametags, in the 9th grade, we made all of the cookies, in the 10th grade we were on kitchen duty and this year we made all of the tea sandwiches. In the 12th grade, the girls go to training on how to properly pour tea, and we are in charge of the formal tea service.

One of the tables with the teacups during Silent Auction.

Formal tea service, presented by the Senior Ticktockers.

Everything is always beautiful at the Holiday Tea and is always

hosted in one of our members exquisite homes.

Holiday items for auction- there was a homemade Christmas

quilt that I really wanted, but it quickly flew out of my price range!

Tea sandwiches- we made Sundried Tomato and

Basil Butter sandwiches- they were yummy

Cookies and sweets being served

More tea sandwiches- there were about 16 different varieties!

The history of NCL can be traced back to 1925, when a small group of women in Los Angeles who were interested in philanthropic work, met together and called themselves The Charity League. They did work for the Red Cross, primarily, and a few daughters met with their mothers to help; one of these girls was the future Mrs. Paul William Lawrence who is considered to be the true founder of National Charity League. By 1938, the daughters decided to form their own group. With the guidance of two of the mothers, this was the first youth group of Charity League. At the first meeting, the girls decided upon the name "Ticktockers"- not sure why! In 1947, the Charity League was incorporated and renamed National Charity League. It was at this time that the mothers decided to take the name Patroness. The re-organized nonprofit corporation became the original mother-daughter charity organized solely for philanthropic, educational and cultural purposes.

Class of 2013 Ticktockers - Sweet, goofy girls!

Awww.....

2011-12-11T09:13:00.000-08:00

We have all become very protective (even more so) of Newman lately. He is so old and moves so slow and spends most of his time sleeping. Sometimes he becomes disoriented and seems to be "lost" in the house- so he'll start howling until one of us comes and lets him know that he's not alone. Then he's fine- he really prefers to be with someone. He likes to sleep with Cole in his bed and the two of them are best buddies.

My Work Peeps

2011-12-11T09:07:00.000-08:00

I am very lucky that I can say that I love my job. I really do! I believe in the work that I do with my whole heart. I work with some fantastic people too- here are some of them at the Business Services Holiday Luncheon that was hosted by Nutritional Services and prepared by our district Chef. Yes! We have a district chef!

NCL Class of 2013 Ticktocker Christmas Party

2011-12-04T19:19:00.000-08:00

We had a fun Christmas gathering at Dannette and Morgan Wagner's home.

Lots of desserts to choose from....

Julianne and Betsy in front of the upside-down Christmas tree in the living room.

Chocolate Cookie Martini's for Moms!

Cole and Julianne at Band Rehearsal

2011-12-04T12:47:00.001-08:00

Love

Championships

2011-12-04T11:13:00.000-08:00

Riverside Poly Proud Heritage Marching Band and Colorguard were Bronze Medalists this year for 5A Bands and are very proud and happy! This is a picture of Julianne and Brittany- waiting to hear scores....

A lot goes on "backstage" at a band competition. For championships, a couple of the parents set up a snack station- with hot coffee, sandwiches and all kinds of goodies for all of the volunteers. So nice!

Phil and another parent loading up the props to get them

ready to be taken to the field for competition.

This was done MANY TIMES this marching season!

Tonight was the last loading and unloading of these babies!

The Band Dads made these ingenious carts so the instruments can be loaded up on the carts quickly and then just pushed into the trailer- a HUGE time saver!

Stuck in Child Care

2011-11-30T00:12:00.000-08:00

One of our Child Care Providers was stuck in a major traffic jam one morning so I had to go in to cover for her during a Family Literacy Class at the Community Settlement House. I decided to show the kids how cool Photo Booth was on my Mac.

This little girl got the hang of it immediately.

They really liked the stretchy face one- we probably took about 20 of these.

We were completely cracking each other up.

No need for toys today!

So Much To Be Thankful For

2011-11-24T21:16:00.000-08:00

We gathered at Mom's new house today and had a low

key day full of good food and good times.

Mom always stresses a bit until everything is out at the same time,

and when it all comes out, she is always really relieved.

Happy Mom.

After Months of Frustration....

2011-11-24T21:14:00.000-08:00

....I am able to post once again on this blog! I owe it all to my little bro Chris- who spent a big chunk of our Thanksgiving holiday troubleshooting this issue with me and actually figuring it out!!!! Thank you so much Chris!

I am back in business!

My Grandpa Hatherly and his Parents

2011-04-14T13:23:00.000-07:00

Uncle Mike posted this on facebook- of course I nabbed it right away... This is Leo and Kietha Hatherly, my great-grandparents - holding my grandfather- Robert Lee Hatherly.

Carson is 7!

2011-03-05T21:58:00.001-08:00

Hard to believe, but our little guy is growing up...

Carson and his friends had fun miniature golfing and playing arcade games today- finally! His party had to be rescheduled 3 times!!!!! Rain and illness got in the way- but the party finally happened and it was a success!

Carson is a very good putter...

Carson's Daddy helped the boys take turns and understand miniature golf etiquette :)

They did a great job!

This was a tricky shot!

Carson and his Uncle Phil :)

April, Cole, Caden and Steven

Caden and his Uncle Phil

The whole gang!

Caden is a pro at Skee Ball- do you see that score????

Cole was helping the kids win tickets- what a guy!

Time to blow out the candles!

All right! Cash!!!!

The biggest kid in the bunch got a goody bag too!

"Mr. Cole"

2011-03-01T20:26:00.001-08:00

This is where Cole works at the After School program at Emerson Elementary School. The kids call him "Mr. Cole" and he is loving it!

Volunteering at the Fox Theater

2011-03-01T20:21:00.000-08:00

Isn't this a beautiful space? This is the VIP Room at the Fox Theater in Riverside. Julianne and I volunteer as hosts here for VIPs that are guests at the theater.

The room is upstairs and overlooks the streets below.

This was the day we volunteered for the Spam-a-lot show. The cool thing is when you volunteer, you get to watch the show for free!

Backyard Firepit

2011-03-01T20:11:00.000-08:00

Phil reading by the fire (with a flashlight) in the backyard- good times...

My Kids

2011-03-01T20:08:00.000-08:00

Cozy and sweet

Read Across America Day

2011-03-01T19:58:00.000-08:00

Phil will be reading a Dr. Seuss book to kids at Victoria Elementary School tomorrow! He's excited! He's armed with cool pencils and stickers to give out after his read aloud too. Happy birthday Dr. Seuss!!!!

Midwinter Dance

2011-03-01T19:50:00.000-08:00

The whole gang!

Julianne and Matt all ready for the dance

A good lookin' couple

Julianne and her Daddy

Isn't Julianne's dress beautiful???

What a couple of clowns!

Cole Starts at the Culinary Academy

2011-01-03T19:39:00.000-08:00

Today was Cole's first day at the Riverside Community College Culinary Academy. He received his uniforms - 5 shirts, 5 pairs of pants, 12 dish towels, and 5 aprons- pretty spiffy. He'll be waiting tables on Thursday and things will progress from there!

Hatherly Christmas Party

2010-12-24T21:31:00.000-08:00

Bella and Adrianna ready to go to the party :)

My girl

"S" is for Seven!

Newman, Heaven, Seven, Larissa and Selena

Me and Selena

Mother and Daughter

Aunt Tena's beautiful Christmas tree and all of our presents we exchanged that night. The big one was MINE and it was an extremely cool karaoke machine!!!!!!!

Thank you Williams Family!

Twyla and Patty

Cristien and Omree

Patty and Bella

Seven and one of his gifts

Omree and one of her gifts- from me!

We love to open presents! This was Selena receiving her necklace making kit.

Larissa got Shrinky Dinks!!!!

Merry Christmas!

West Side Story!

2010-12-24T21:26:00.000-08:00

Julianne, Emily and I went to the Pantages Theater in Hollywood to see West Side Story a few evenings ago. We ate at a cute little restaurant called "Off Vine" which was right around the corner before the show. When the show was over, we came out to POURING rain and got absolutely soaked to the skin walking back to the car. We drove 45 mph all the way home and finally got back at 1 am. It was all worth it! The show was fantastic!

Poly High School Concert Band and Wind Ensemble Winter Concert

2010-12-24T21:19:00.000-08:00

Julianne plays in both Concert Band and Wind Ensemble. She also plays in the school orchestra, but that group didn't perform on this particular evening. It was a great concert full of holiday tunes.

Julianne's boyfriend Matt is a senior. It is a tradition for the Juniors to present the Seniors with a bottle of sparkling cider and a glass to toast in the new year at this concert. This is Matt receiving his gift.

Julianne's private music teacher, Victor Torres came to watch the performance.

It was great to see him!

After the concert :)

One of my Family Literacy Groups

2010-12-24T21:08:00.000-08:00

Josefina brought hot chocolate on our last meeting before Christmas Break.

The moms made gifts for their children-

special hangers to display their school work at home.

They had a great time crafting together.

And they all helped Andrea (pictured below) make one for each of her 7 kids!

Andrea

We had a good time together :). Their classes will start up again the first week back. They receive 4 hours of instruction per week- 2 hours of English as a second language, 1 hour of computers and 1 hour of family literacy.

Bathtime for Newman!

2010-12-24T21:05:00.000-08:00

This is one stinky dog who appreciates a good bath. He loves it!

National Charity League Holiday Tea

2010-12-24T20:55:00.000-08:00

It was the Class of 2013's turn to work the kitchen this year. We had a lot of fun washing tea cup after tea cup to keep the party running.

There were lots of wonderful homemade cookies and tea sandwiches - beautiful and delicious!

Tea, anyone?

Part of the kitchen crew!

Part of the tea is a tea cup auction with proceeds going to a selected charity.

One of the tables with teacups on auction.

Heaven's first Band Concert

2010-12-10T21:50:00.000-08:00

Last night was Heaven's first band concert and he did a great job! That's right folks- there is a new trumpet player amongst us! Good job, Heaven!!!!

This year's Christmas tree

2010-12-10T21:48:00.001-08:00

We picked a good one this year! The lights are on tonight and we'll decorate it tomorrow!

It's beginning to really feel like Christmas around here...

What a GREAT Marching Season!!!!

2010-12-06T19:38:00.000-08:00

The French Horns!

The Poly Proud Heritage Band and Colorguard took 3rd in the 5A Band Championships this last weekend after a very long and successful season. The kids were thrilled with their accomplishments and very satisfied with the results. The band Dads (one in particular) were very happy that the season came to a close after a long relationship with Stromboli and hauling heavy things on and off fields all over southern California!!!!

Me and Laila

2010-12-06T19:33:00.001-08:00

This was when I got to meet and hold Laila for the first time. In case you don't know, Laila is the new daughter of my friends Philip and Amber-

and the granddaughter of Stan and Jan Swartz.

She has changed a lot already since even a few weeks ago!

What a pretty little girl!!!

Honduras, November, 2010

2010-11-22T15:32:00.000-08:00

This is me and Jan, after a miserable red-eye flight from LAX to El Salvador- a 5 hour flight. I was next to this disgusting old lady who hacked and wheezed and coughed all night long. Needless to say, I didn't get much sleep. The flight from El Salvador to Honduras is only 3o minutes- thank God.

This is Don Tito. He works for the American School in Honduras and

he has been our driver every time we go there.

Pictures that I took from the car ride from the airport to the school in Tegucigalpa- which is the capital, by the way.

There were approximately 15 people squished into this vehicle- I swear.

I don't think this kid's face fit in the van.

Carnitas anyone?

Smelly river

There is political graffiti EVERYWHERE

plastic pots for sale on the roadside

American food

yeah, if this razor wire won't keep you out,

maybe this nasty toilet seat will

Fuller brush man?

This is how close they come to hitting each

other in traffic in Honduras. This is normal.

Outside of the American School

So I get to the school- straight from the airport- I change clothes and freshen up in the principal's bathroom and I walk up the hallway to find the others and BAM! I see Grace hanging in the hallway! My niece!!!! What the?????? They RANDOMLY chose her picture to hang on their Gratitude banner for that week- the same week that I was going to be there. WHOA! I still can't believe it!!!!

This is us waiting for the Family Literacy Workshop- Reading for Meaning - to take place. It was great, by the way- a huge success.

This is Elcenora Martinez, the Elementary School Principal and Stan

at the Family Literacy Workshop.

I saw this beautiful bird and so I snapped a photo of it.

I have no idea what it is.

The three Honduran Literacy Coaches graduated from

training, and there was a ceremony for them.

They presented us with gifts- and WE FORGOT THEM THERE!!!! UGH! We felt TERRIBLE!!!!! Elcenora said she will ship them to us.

There was a taco luncheon at the ceremony.

The Literacy Coaches each received their CELL pin.

This is me saying a few words.

The whole gang- minus Philip who couldn't be with us this

time because he and his wife just had a beautiful new baby girl

Me recieving my gift from the Assistant Principal,

and below- Daniel, Stan and I with one of the teachers.

Happy Halloween!!!

2010-10-31T22:49:00.000-07:00

I have always loved Halloween- and I guess everyone knows I'm just a kid at heart!

This year I dressed up as a pirate! It was fun!

Julianne and a group of her friends dressed up as Super Mario Brothers characters and trick or treated together tonight. She was Princess Peach. She had a really great time.

The Williams family came over and we enjoyed a great dinner together- London broil, red potatoes, steamed veggies, bread and butter, deviled eggs and cupcakes for dessert- YUM!

Why yes- I AM this cute!!!

Pretty Larissa

Baby Lee

Newman dressed up as a rooster this year and he LOVED

every 2 minutes that he was in his costume!!!

The boys getting ready to go out trick or treating!

Selena the Bumblebee

Time to go trick or treating!

This is what Newman did all evening- he was the official greeter of our 300 trick or treaters that we had this year- he let the kids pet him and never left the house. He is exhausted from all the festivities and is already completely asleep...

Both Cole and Zach were bananas- and they added the cute little message- Cole made me promise not to put any pics on facebook- this doesn't count, right?

Heaven and his tons of candy

The whole gang!

Larissa, Phil and Eric- what a great night!!!!

Halloween Potluck at the D.O.

2010-10-30T15:08:00.000-07:00

We had a potluck on Friday that was a lot of fun.

I have decided that there are some pretty darn good cooks at the District Office.

When I first saw these I thought the green fingers were made out plastic- nope! Candy!

Super cute little brownie cupcakes

Only thing missing was the wine...

YUM

Thanks for organizing Marilyn!

Cole is Officially Employed!!!!

2010-10-30T14:57:00.000-07:00

Cole got a job as a YMCA Recreation Leader and will be working in the RUSD H.E.A.R.T.S After School Program at Emerson Elementary School. He had a meeting with his co-workers on Friday, and they start with their 104 kids on Monday. Mr. John McCombs is the Principal at Emerson and gave the new staff a wonderful tour of the school.

Emerson has a HUGE Community Garden and the H.E.A.R.T.S. program will get a plot.

Many people from the community come in and work their little gardens and harvest all kinds of interesting fruits and veggies.

The Community Garden Shed

Cole with his co-workers.

This was taken in the new library- it just opened up a couple of weeks ago. Mr. McCombs is explaining about the computer lab. You may be wondering how I got these photos... Well- as you know, I work for the RUSD After School Programs and I was a part of this meeting!

Cole and I kinda-sorta work together!!!!

Hangin' out in Downtown Riverside

2010-10-10T10:57:00.000-07:00

Julianne and I met up with her boyfriend Matt and went to the Farmer's Market again Downtown yesterday- and then had lunch and spent some time shopping.

It was fun and most of all, relaxing.

Julianne took all of these photos- she's really good with the camera.

This was our lunch! Simple Simon's just recently re-opened after a pretty bad kitchen fire. This is a VERY POPULAR place and there are always lines -

but they move quickly- the food is really fresh and so delicious.

Me during lunch

A pretty shot Julianne took- but not sure where

Matt near the Mission Inn

Walking around later on- (while I was in the Antique Store!)

For my birthday

2010-10-03T20:34:00.000-07:00

The girls on the 2nd floor of the District Office- where I now work primarily- made these for me and surprised me on my birthday- brownie cupcakes with strawberry cream cheese frosting... I was VERY surprised! And touched- it was very kind.... :)

Kathy, Cole, Twyla, Amparo, Patty and PHANTOM

2010-10-03T20:25:00.000-07:00

Before we saw Phantom of the Opera at the Pantages, we had lunch on Olvera Street - YUM!

It was such a great day to be in HOLLYWOOD!!!!!!

It was nice to be there early so we could

hang out for awhile and enjoy some sights.

I actually took this photo by mistake- but I like it!

The show was FANTASTIC-

I love love love Phantom- and we had a great time!

Julianne, Phil and PHANTOM

2010-10-03T20:21:00.001-07:00

Julianne and her Dad went to see Phantom of the Opera at the Pantages in Hollywood today- this is a photo of Julianne and the dessert they had after they had dinner after the show- chocolate souffle! They had to order it before they ordered dinner because it took 45 minutes to bake!

Before they left....

They had a great time!

Amber's Baby Shower Cake

2010-09-18T12:52:00.000-07:00

...to welcome Baby Laila- who will be here very soon!

Downtown Riverside Farmers' Market

2010-09-11T11:53:00.000-07:00

a beautiful Saturday morning...and a nice time to explore the sights,

sounds and SMELLS of the certified organic Farmers'

Market in town. We got some good stuff.

We love where we live!!!!

Guny Romero and Javier Arroyo's Wedding

2010-09-10T21:17:00.000-07:00

We had a few minutes to spare before the wedding so we got to play with Cindy and Seth's baby girl Reagan- she is such a cutie pie!

Reagan Elise

My Twyla :)

The wedding was held on the grounds of this beautiful house in Riverside-

the Crestmore Manor- felt very southern to me!

There was a large pond complete with lily pads, tiny fish and jumping, croaking frogs!

Bella was a beautiful flower girl.

Here comes the bride with her daddy- Gustavo Romero

My friend Lesley's husband was the officiant- Mike Glenn

Proud parents of the bride- Gustavo and LuzAlicia Romero

The food at the reception was AWESOME!

Part of the Preschool Office Gang! Patty, Me, Amparo, Margie, Twyla and Cindy

Me and Amparo- well-behaved at the moment :)

The Carriage House behind the main house was built

for meetings and receptions- a very nice facility.

Dancing!

The music was good and LOUD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You are Now Mine by Kathy Pitchford

2010-09-04T08:53:00.000-07:00

Your skin is not the color of my skin.

But you are mine just the same.

Your tongue speaks a language that my tongue

cannot.

We can still communicate.

While you are with me, I will dedicate all that I am to your cause-

for I am your caretaker, your protector, and your guide.

I will protect you and watch over you and help you grow.

I will love you as if you came from me.

You are important to me.

I am your Teacher.

My New Digs

2010-08-30T21:56:00.000-07:00

Of course I still have my good 'ol preschool office over at Ramona High School, but now I have an After School Office at the District on the 2nd floor- and I kinda like having a cubicle.

I am determined to make it comfy and cozy.

Posted a little interactive writing...

I have my blanket that Tena made me to keep me warm

when it gets downright freezing in there.

This is going to be a different year for me- and I am ready!

Julianne's Bakery's Newest Cake

2010-08-28T22:40:00.001-07:00

Julianne was hired to make a cake for our

friends' backyard wedding reception.

This was a tall order! Fresh strawberry slices

went in between the layers.

She put glittery sugary crystals on top. Very pretty.

The final product and baker.

It tasted pretty good too!

Snacks for Middle Schoolers

2010-08-22T12:23:00.001-07:00

We are getting ready for the After School Programs to begin (tomorrow!) and one of our middle schools needed to get snacks in- so I had to go with the new teacher who was just barely hired to purchase stuff at Costco- this is what we bought to cover 2 WEEKS.

$670 bucks. Good times. UGH.

Band Bowling Party

2010-08-22T12:20:00.000-07:00

Emily and Julianne- best buds

End of Band Camp- Welcome Dinner

2010-08-22T12:07:00.000-07:00

The kids always show the parents what they have learned in band camp as far as marching and music- and they get their cool field show t-shirt. It's a celebration and a kick off to marching season. After they played, the boosters put on a free dinner of hot dogs and side dishes for everyone. There were sign ups to volunteer for stuff throughout marching season and spirit wear for sale too. It was really fun.

Jairett- drum major

Kids on field

Fred Suplee- band booster president and all around great guy.

Phil Pitchford- band parlimentarian!

Happy Birthday Phil! (Uncle Phil! Dad!)

2010-08-22T11:58:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Phil's birthday by going out to Sushi for dinner -

always a good time, and one of our favorite things to do as a family.

Dad and his kids

Lisa and Emma showed up and surprised Phil with coffee from Back to the Grind (and donuts!) the morning of Phil's birthday- this was after he had already made himself a mocha, and then I brought him a coffee from Starbucks!

He was buzzin' with caffeine for awhile, but feelin' loved :)

Emma, Phil and Julianne

Emma wrote this happy birthday message on top of the donut box for Uncle Phil.

Workin' At the CAR WASH

2010-08-14T11:58:00.000-07:00

This morning was the Poly Band's first car wash of the season.

The kids come in three shifts so it's not too much work on anyone.

It's actually very well organized. Julianne was part of the first shift.

Towels drying in the sun.

They got really, really wet, so it takes longer

for them to dry than you would expect.

Our van getting washed. The kids do a good job.

They even do the wheels! Not bad for 5 bucks!

I love these shirts!

A cool photo of one of the cars being washed.

Julianne was part of the drying crew.

Two dogs got washed today! 5 bucks a dog!

Amber and Julianne!

Emily and a friend advertising on Central Avenue.

Come support the Poly Band!!!!!

Julianne's Bakery is Going Strong

2010-08-13T17:50:00.001-07:00

Still one of her best sellers, Chunky Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

Decorative Cake orders are starting to come in with more frequency....definitely more of a challenge, and she probably needs to charge more...

These cupcakes have a frosted buttercream sugar cookie on top. Cute!

And of course, COOKIES! Chocolate Chip are awesome, but Peanut Butter are my favorite- they are yummy and they are close to my heart, because she uses Grandma Shearer's recipe :)

Snapshots of Band Camp So Far

2010-08-11T23:00:00.000-07:00

Couple of Baritones, (Emily being one of them), Julianne with her

(brand new!!!!) Mellophone and a Trumpet - Jacob

Jose with his Tuba

Julianne getting fitted for her uniform

Adrian- incoming freshman- with his Mellophone

Second day on the field

It's just the beginning....

VEGGIES and PASTA

2010-08-10T20:17:00.000-07:00

All I did was saute a bunch of yummy veggies in garlic and olive oil...

mix with spaghetti and top with some breaded eggplant-

MAN! was this good!!!!

First Day of Band Camp

2010-08-09T23:45:00.001-07:00

I do believe she's ready.

Pitchford "Professional" Catering Service

2010-08-09T23:28:00.000-07:00

Tena and Mark had this humongous - like 140 guests- wedding in their backyard for their niece last Saturday and needed HELP so we stepped up to the plate! HA! No pun intended.... well, maybe a little....

This is the wedding cake before we carried it outside. Isn't it pretty?

We didn't make this one, by the way.... but I just betcha we could!

Little did I know that I would be the one cutting it! I had to think for a minute, but I remembered what to do after I stopped panicking.....don't I look like I'm hacking the crap out of it? Believe it or not, it turned out fine, and we served the ENTIRE THING.

This is Cole and Julianne making all of the beverages- Spa Water with cucumbers and lemons, Iced Tea, lemonade- and then we figured out the coffee together :)

The backyard was gorgeous.

This is where the bride and groom were married.

Musicians weren't too bad- real light jazzy stuff.

Cole helping with the coffee.

Tena and Julianne gabbing in the kitchen.

The beautiful bride

We were a great team- the girl with us is Alexis and she was a hard worker! We prepared light hor'dourves and ran food out and brought trays in from the buffet table for at least a couple of hours. Then we did trash and dishes! What service!!!! It was hard work, but we really had a lot of fun. And BOY, did Tena and Mark appreciate it!!!!!

Will and Wade Smith

2010-08-09T23:23:00.001-07:00

Phil got a surprise, and very much appreciated, visit yesterday from Will and Wade Smith, two young men who we have known since they were in the 4th grade. They played for our travel basketball team starting in the 6th grade and have been great friends ever since. After they left our house, they prepared to board a redeye flight to Michigan, where they will play college football for Northwood University in Midland, MI, where they just might freeze to death. Stay warm, twins!!!

The Adventures of the JUICE IT UP GIRL

2010-08-08T15:23:00.000-07:00

It all started when Julianne went with her friend Chrystal to her church youth group and Julianne won an opportunity to choose a $100 gift card to ANYWHERE- let me repeat!!!!! ANYWHERE she chose!!!! She was up on the stage and the only thing that popped into her head was

'JUICE IT UP'.

According to Julianne, everyone looked at her like, "Dude, are you serious?" But, the words were spoken, and Juice it Up it was.

Being the optimist that she is, she decided to make it a project of sorts and move through the menu, keeping a log of every item ordered and rate each item on a scale from 1-10. So far, she has rated 16 smoothies, with the lowest rating being a 2 and the highest being a 10. For those of you wondering which smoothies are which, you will have to wait for her much anticipated write-up of this experience that is still going on.

She has become well-acquainted with the employees at our local Juice it Up, and they have told her about some off the menu smoothies that she should try- those will be included in the rating. Stay tuned for this true epic adventure story. TO BE CONTINUED!!!!

More Disneyland Memories of the Past

2010-08-04T23:36:00.000-07:00

I miss Country Bear Jamboree! The show was the same every single time, but it didn't matter! My favorite song was "Blood on the Saddle"- I think the bear that sang that was Big Al- but I loved the one that came through the ceiling on the swing covered in flowers too- and of course the three mounted heads on the wall- the deer, the moose and the buffalo- they were awesome- this is where the Pooh ride is now- and that ride is a good one- but not like the Country Bear Jamboree- that was really special.

I miss the Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse! Of course, now it's Tarzan's treehouse- but it's so OBVIOUSLY still the really the Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse and they just updated it because for some weird reason they haven't remade that movie yet. I really think they should - they could do wonders with that story nowadays. I loved going up in that tree when I was little.

I miss America Sings! This was actually in Tomorrow Land in what is now the weird (and stupid) hands on museum thing that no one ever goes into. America Sings was awesome. After they dismantled it they took some of the characters into Splash Mountain. I remember every time I went on America Sings- everyone sang along with all the patriotic music. It was really cool.

I miss the Skyway! The coolest part was of course going through the Matterhorn. You could see the monster (with his glowing red eyes) and get a little water spray on you and see the cars go past. Plus it was just cool to see the park from way up high. Another cool thing to see was the lagoon and the submarines from that vantage point.

This is what Dumbo looked like when I was little. It was actually a pretty boring ride. There was just concrete below- no fancy water or decorations, or mouse on top. I remember when they closed it down for renovations- it took forever. Actually I remember when they revamped Fantasyland and totally changed it. It was closed down for - I think- a couple of years. When it re-opened it was COMPLETELY different. Dumbo was MUCH fancier- like it is today.

French Horn Section Swim Party

2010-08-03T21:18:00.001-07:00

Julianne and Adrian practiced a bit before the party.

Higgins!

The day was perfect for playing in the pool.

Joey, Brittany, and Julianne

Jairett plays french horn and mellophone and is also the principal Drum Major.

They were playing some sort of game here.

Here too!

Cute pic.

Cooper :)

Cooper and Adrian

Crazy teenagers!!!

I personally like the blue flowers....

2010-08-03T12:53:00.001-07:00

...but Julianne has an entirely new vision for her room now that she is a full-fledged adolescent. Cole is spending the day scraping the blue flowers off his sister's walls - for a price of course :)

THIS JUST IN

2010-08-02T11:02:00.000-07:00

COLE PASSED THE WRITTEN PORTION OF THE DRIVING TEST THIS MORNING- TAKES THE BEHIND THE WHEEL TEST NEXT WEEK!!!! WOO-HOO!!!!

At the Movies

2010-08-01T21:29:00.000-07:00

...and speaking of Julianne and Emily - we finally went to see Toy Story 3 this evening- and in order to have a really good time they apparently needed popcorn, a jumbo Hershey's Symphony chocolate bar, Jolly Rancher gummies, Reese's Pieces, Sour Patch candies and Juice it Ups that they snuck in to the theater. Oh, to be a teenager again!!!!!!!!

Julianne and Emily

2010-07-30T22:30:00.001-07:00

Two very good friends.

Disneyland Ticket Booths

2010-07-30T21:56:00.000-07:00

I started thinking about Disneyland ticket booths since my last post about "E" tickets. So I found a few old photos online - and they were just as I remembered them! This was a ticket booth in Tomorrowland.

This is old school Fantasyland! This is the ticket booth I remember the most. I think it is because it was right next to the Welch's Juice Stand - and I ALWAYS craved one of those icy cups filled with dark purple grape juice- when I did get one, it was the absolute most refreshing thing I had EVER tasted- I loved it that much!

Look at how close the old teacups were to King Arthur's Carousel...

These Two are a Crack Up

2010-07-29T23:39:00.000-07:00

Julianne and Nathan know how to have fun!

It's an "E" Ticket Ride!

2010-07-29T22:53:00.000-07:00

This brings back SO MANY memories! The famous "E" ticket! Can you imagine having to buy tickets for rides at Disneyland today? I remember the little ticket booth that used to be in Fantasyland near the carousel and the Welch's Grape Juice Stand- you could buy more ride tickets there when you ran out. The thing is most of the time you only ran out of "E" tickets or maybe "D" tickets because those were for the best rides. I don't even remember what "C" or "B tickets were for. I remember the "A" tickets were for lame things like riding in the antique cars down Main Street- which they don't have anymore. There were always a ton of "A" tickets leftover. Part of the problem was that you could only buy the tickets in books- you couldn't just buy the tickets you wanted - "E" tickets!!!! One of the cool things I remember from when I was pretty little, was that Grandma Shearer had a shoebox full of ride tickets that she collected over the years. She got them because my Grandpa worked at the park. So when we would go and get signed in, she would get out her shoebox so we wouldn't have to buy ride tickets when we got there.

Anna Kathleen Lawler Hatherly

2010-07-29T21:19:00.000-07:00

...or better known to her great-grandchildren as Grammie Tink. I love this photo of Grandma. I can see some of us in her face.... especially Tena and Megan. She was such a fun and amazing woman. I loved talking to her. When we lived together - from the time I was about 18 to 21 - we would sit for hours and talk- long into the night- about anything and everything. We would always be so shocked when we realized it was almost 2 am..... and my god, we would LAUGH- Grandma was so much fun- she made everything fun and funny- I remember one time she came into wake me up in the morning so I could move my car so she could go to church. We both walked out onto the carport and both got into our cars and started them up. Then I looked in my rearview mirror and saw her in her car behind me. Oh my god, we both lost it. It was hilarious.

21 Years

2010-07-29T15:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary to Us!

Market Basket

2010-07-29T15:39:00.000-07:00

This grocery store was across the street from my street growing up. As far as I know, it was the only Market Basket- I'm not sure if it was a chain or not. I remember my mom having me walk up to get her things that she needed for whatever she was making for dinner or something. She'd tell me to get her a can of corn, or an onion or maybe some bread and give me a little bit of money and I'd walk up there to make my all-important purchase. I always felt so grown-up when I was sent on these errands.

Esther L. Walter Elementary School

2010-07-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

This is the elementary school in Anaheim where all four of us attended. My Mom also worked here as the School Nurse for a million years. Our family has so many memories connected with this place. This is the entrance to the cafeteria. When I was there, there were no benches out front. I remember standing in line waiting to get through those double doors to pay for my hot lunch. For me, that was always a big deal- I loved buying my lunch in the cafeteria! I remember a carton of milk cost a nickel.

This is right next to the cafeteria and the outside of the front office.

It's amazing to me how much it looks the same, after all these years.

This is a photo of one of the playgrounds. When I was there, there were two- one for upper graders and one for lower graders. I remember thinking how cool it would be once I got to the upper grade playground. It was, of course- much cooler. Both playgrounds faced the train tracks which are unbelievably close to the school. Every time a train would come, I remember most of the kids on the yard would run over to the fence to wave to the train conductor and watch the train go by. I wonder if the kids there still do that?

Julianne and Nathan

2010-07-28T00:45:00.000-07:00

Keeping cool on a hot day :)

Ribs Seriously Make Me Feel Like a Carnivore

2010-07-28T00:23:00.001-07:00

*this was another post from facebook that I wrote shortly before Julianne became a vegetarian..... Hmmm, I wonder if this had anything to do with it.....

...because all you care about is getting your teeth into the flesh that is the delicious
meatiness that was once the pig and tearing it apart and then once it's in your mouth and you realize that you've also got gobs of fat and sinewy stuff you just don't care because it's a RIB!!!
...and it's so damn good and you're eating it so fast because you know if you don't you
won't get as many as you want because other people are eating them fast too and then you think.....

......this is kinda like being a lion when they tear apart that zebra on those shows on the Discovery channel, only they get bloody and my hands just get incredibly greasy and my teeth get completely full of meaty gunk, but it DOES NOT MATTER because RIBS ARE DELICIOUS but this brings me to my other point....

...ladies, ribs are not good date food...as my testimony above will illustrate, we should probably eat ribs in the privacy of our own homes.

RIBS ARE GOOD FOOD.

Poisonous Houseplants and Young Children

2010-07-28T00:18:00.000-07:00

*I posted this on facebook awhile back- thought I'd post it here as well....

So I was showing a group of teachers a photo of this extremely cool indoor greenhouse that another teacher had built in her classroom. It was awesome- little cups of dirt with seeds were actually growing inside, instead of getting moldy on the windowsill. One particular teacher who was sitting in the back of the group- arms folded across her chest, lips pressed together suddenly blurts out- "My god, she's got a poisonous houseplant in there." No one said anything, and I moved on.
This comment has stuck with me. Because this is what I wanted to say.

Yes. There is a poisonous houseplant inside the little greenhouse. There are poisonous houseplants EVERYWHERE. What is your concern madam? You fear a child may actually ingest this plant? Maybe suck on it? Chew on it a bit? Just flat out eat it? Do you think these children are THAT STUPID? Most of these kids won't even eat vegetables. Or salad. But put a poisonous houseplant near them and damn that's good eatin'?

Why must early childhood educators give so little credit to young children? Why must they act as if they have absolutely no intelligence whatsoever? Young children are ready to be taught. If necessary, we can teach them the difference between a poisonous houseplant and a dinner salad.

Barbecue with the Williams Family

2010-07-27T23:10:00.000-07:00

We love having the Williams family over and we had a fun barbecue the other day-

full of swimming and laughing and chowing down.

Seven, Larissa and Heaven- having dessert-

peach pie? or Snickerdoodle Cake? or both?

Yummy peach pie

grillin' it up

Heaven

Selena

Larissa

Seven

Cole throwing his sister into the pool :)

Bathing beauties!

Redlands Youth Orchestra

2010-07-27T23:00:00.000-07:00

Julianne's private music teacher- Victor- who is SO GREAT- and finds all kinds of cool opportunities for Julianne to play- offered her a chance to sit in with the Redlands Youth Orchestra to play along with their big performance for their parents. They really needed French Horns- and so Victor and another friend of his and Julianne rehearsed twice with the group and then performed 4 pieces. The coolest part was that the conductor announced Julianne as a guest musician! Very cool!

French Horns in the back!

Thriftimart

2010-07-27T22:48:00.000-07:00

I was thinking about my Dad the other day after I found some old pictures of stuff in Anaheim, and decided to search for some images of Thriftimart- the grocery store chain my dad worked for for years before it morphed into Smart & Final.... He started as a box boy in one of the grocery stores and ended his career with the company as Director of Buying Systems- I think that was his title- for Smart & Final. My Mom identified the above store as the one that used to be on Harbor Boulevard by Disneyland. This was the store that my Dad was robbed at gunpoint as he was closing the store one night. The gunman got in the backseat of my dad's car after taking some money from the safe and told my Dad to drive. He had my Dad stop in a strawberry field and made him get in the trunk of the car. Luckily, after he locked my dad in, he left the keys on top of the car. My Dad did a lot of kicking and yelling and - I'm not sure how long he was in there, but some people heard him and let him out. They did catch the guy..... and he was found guilty..... I think I was about 7 or 8 when that happened. But I remember it well.

You always knew there was a Thriftimart nearby because most of the stores had these gigantic neon red T's on top of the buildings. I thought they were cool.

Iris was the store brand for Thriftimart. My Dad always got really jazzed when we were watching TV and the show would have an Iris product being used or in the scene somehow. He thought that was so cool.

Cole's Graduation Party

2010-07-19T00:32:00.000-07:00

It was a very exciting and strange experience for Phil and I to see Cole in his graduation cap and gown. There is something so final about it. This was something we really needed to celebrate!

We posted all kinds of pictures of Cole from throughout his childhood and adolescence. It really was a walk down memory lane for all of us.

Decorations on the table- and Cole's letter in basketball.

Friends and family signed this picture for him during the party

When we brought this in, we thought for sure we had gotten too much- but nope!

It was all gone by the next day.

Cole and Kelly

Tena and Mark

Playing ping pong

Me and Jan

The front of Cole, Twyla and Larissa

The back of Cole, Twyla and Larissa

Stan and me

The Philip and Kathy self-portrait :)

Me, Cris and Patty

Jacquie, Mom, Grandma and Pop

Me and my best friend

Silas playing a bowling game with his Grandpa

Phil and Auntie Pam

Jacquie and Crissy

My peeps

Chris and Julianne

Kayla

The twins playing on the lawn

Silas, Carson and Caden having big time fun in the pool