The Collins

JUST DO IT!!!

2012-02-07T15:51:00.000-08:00

ENTER MY BEAUTIFUL FRIENDS GIVEAWAY!! IT'S A GOOD ONE!!
JUST CLICK ON THE COLOR ISSUE ICON LOCATED AT THE BOTTOM RIGHT OF MY BLOG!

Okay you guys, this is amazing and I am SO excited to finally announce...

THE VENICE ONA BAG GIVEAWAY!!!

Have you ever heard of Ona? They are one of the finest camera bags I have seen yet, plus I love that it doesn't even look like a camera bag! These beauties are premium leather and retails for $329. So go on and choose one of these four delicious colors: stone, plum, camel, or black! Doesn't get much better than this, I tell ya!

How to enter... (all entries must include these three steps to be valid)

1. Become a Color Issue follower (just click the join this site button in the top right!)

2. Leave a comment and let me know which color you would choose (I know its a hard decision!)

3. Lastly, spread the word and let me know where you shared

***and of course, if you'd like to get the latest and greatest info on ONA follow them on Facebook and Twitter

DEADLINE IS NEXT FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10TH @ MIDNIGHT PST...winner will be announced the following Saturday! gooooood luck!

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-25T11:38:00.000-08:00

Not Santa, Mommy!!

2011-12-15T17:26:00.000-08:00

We love visiting the Huish's every year for their extravagant Christmas lights and decorations and this past weekend Brad's Grandparents were playing Santa and Mrs. Clause. Here'a a few pics from that night. Avery was not fond of Santa and even though it was Great Grandpa, she wanted nothing to do with him. Maybe next year she'll like Santa a little more and maybe even smile for the camera.

Winner Winner... We Have A Winner!!

2011-12-15T13:49:00.000-08:00

Thanks to random.org, the winner of the vintage necklace goes to comment #15.

My Songbook said..

I also tweeted the giveaway! Thanks for offering this beautiful necklace! I really hope I win :)

December 7, 2011 5:24 AM

You can email me at ashleync12@gmail.com with your address and your necklace will be on its way!!

You can check out this pretty lady's blog HERE. Thanks to all who entered the giveaway!!

Little Love

2011-12-08T18:04:00.000-08:00

This little girl right here brings so much happiness to my life! Where has the time gone, she's growing up way to fast and I want time to slow down. These three pictures are some of my favorite. They were taken when she was 11 months old. Her smile is contagious and her funny expressions keep us laughing! Avery Collins I love you my little boo boo!

Don't forget to enter my giveaway!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-07T18:47:00.000-08:00

Christmas Picture Location

2011-12-06T15:05:00.000-08:00

This picture is from Crystal Pier as the sun was setting yesterday. Our good friends Tyler and Barbara were kind enough to take our Christmas Pictures for us at this beautiful location.

Don't forget to enter my giveaway for the super cute one of a kind vintage neckalce.

GIVEAWAY #1

2011-12-05T21:49:00.000-08:00

So here it is as I promised... GIVEAWAY #1

My cousin Jeannie makes very cute vintage necklaces. You can check out here Facebook page Raejean's Jewelry Box. All of her necklaces are one of a kind and all are inspired by our grandmother's jewelry. This beauty will be given to one of you lucky followers. So thanks for stopping by!

To enter giveaway you must..
Go to her facebook page and like it.
Post this giveaway for others to see and let me know where.
Follow my blog.

Winner will be chosen next Week, before another giveaway is announced. Best of Luck!!

It's Beginning to feel a lot like Christmas!

2011-12-02T10:45:00.000-08:00

Our Thanksgiving was wonderful and we loved spending time with family. My family celebrated Thanksgiving the Sunday before and we celebrated with Brad's family Thanksgiving Day. I had only taken two pictures that day and one is of Avery and a cute little puppy and the other is of the delicious Peanut Butter Pie that I made. It was a hit and I plan on making it every Thanksgiving.

We're excited for Christmas and all that goes with it. Today we're off to find outfits for our family Christmas pictures we're taking next week, wish us luck!!

Monday is going to be a fabulous day, why you might ask because I will be hosting my first giveaway... So stay tuned!!

Have a wonderful weekend and do something wonderful for yourself!

Word Wednesday

2011-11-16T15:07:00.000-08:00

I know I usually do wordless Wednesdays, but today I feel like this. My Class ends this Saturday and lets just say I have a few papers to write and a final to study for.

via

I wish I could say I feel and look like this, but unfortunately I don't. Maybe towards the end of my next class I will.

via

The Countdown Begins

2011-11-14T14:51:00.000-08:00

I LOVE Christmas!! Everything about it, I love!! Christmas music is a must for me and when I was driving in my car and heard on FM 96.5 that Christmas music would be played from 7pm-12 am, I got even more excited!!

What is my count down you ask?

My countdown is 12 days until Black Friday!! Special thanks to Grandma Cordy because it is this wonderful women who introduced me to this wonderful/crazy shopping day. Waking up early and finding those good finds is what it's all about! Although Grandma Cordy is no longer with us, you better believe that I will carry on this tradition in honor of her! Plus, it's a day that I can feel close to her because she loved Black Friday and all that went along with it. So yes my friends 12 days until I wake up at 4am and begin shopping on one of the craziest days of the year.

Just to get you a little more excited for Christmas, please enjoy the video below!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-09T18:04:00.000-08:00

5 Kids 4 Adults... That's how we roll to Disneyland!!

2011-11-04T12:20:00.000-07:00

Our trip to Disneyland two weeks ago was a success. My parents, two nieces and nephew joined Brad, Avery, my niece Desea and I. It was a lot of fun and Avery loved it! A special shout out and thanks to Grandpa Norris for hooking us up with a room at the Fairfield Inn Marriott it is located right across the street from the Disneyland entrance, so it was an easy walk. Plus, the hotel upgraded us to the Mickey Mouse Suite, they treated us great!! I love Disneyland and I especially love going during Holidays. I'm pretty sure I'm going to convince Brad to take another trip there before Christmas, Christmas time at Disneyland is my favorite!! I took lots of pictures, so enjoy the collages!

It's beginning to feel a lot like Fall

2011-11-03T16:14:00.000-07:00

Every year, sometimes twice a year my parents like to make a trip up to Julian. I'm not going to lie, I love joining them! This last weekend my parents, Avery and I, and my sister Stevie and her two Boys Reef and Hawk made the trip. One thing I look forward to most is a slice of warm apple pie. This year they had a pumpkin apple pie and if you know me I'm a BIGG pumpkin pie fan!!It was delicious!! It was fun to get away for a few hours and especially spend time with my parents and sister. It was beautiful there. We of course stopped at the Cider Mill to purchase our yummy treats and my mom and I bought the baby apples to make yummy caramel apples, they're the perfect size for that. I hope to be able to make another trip up there before the end of the year and hopefully Brad will join.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-02T19:34:00.000-07:00

Avery and Daddy

2011-10-27T16:08:00.000-07:00

Avery hasn't really been into books, but lately all she wants to do is have mommy and daddy read to her. Last night it was the cutest thing when Brad was reading her the book, I Love You, Stinky Face. Every time he'd read about the dinosaur she'd go "rooarr". This picture captures it perfectly. Nothing melts my heart more then seeing Avery and her daddy spend time together. She has the best dad ever and he's soo good to her. I'm so grateful that I was blessed with such a wonderful husband. I must admit, I'm a little bit sad that Avery's been more into her Daddy lately, but then again I love seeing the two of them together!!

My Cute Niece

2011-10-23T16:05:00.000-07:00

My niece Desea had her Primary Program at church today and I got to go. My sister is in the hospital from a procedure, so my niece got to stay with us for a couple days. My mom and I took her shopping yesterday for a new dress and shoes. These pictures were after her program and as you can tell she's a crazy little girl, but we love her. She did such a good job and we're so proud of her!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-19T09:22:00.000-07:00

The Countdown Begins

2011-10-17T14:54:00.000-07:00

4 days until we're off to the Happiest Place On Earth!!
This will be Avery's 3rd trip to Disneyland since she was born. Daddy has been preparing her, by having her watch Disney Sing Along videos and buying her different Disney Character stuff animals. She can't quite say there names yet, but if you ask her for them she knows who's who.

My wide angle lens came in today and I'm very excited about that!! Happy Monday everyone!!

Giveaway from my Beautiful Friend Aarean!!

2011-10-16T14:07:00.000-07:00

Hello friends! My friend Aarean is doing a giveaway on her blog The Color Issue. Make sure you visit her site, follow her and enter the giveaway. Don't forget to grab her button too!!

Its Giveaway Time

Its time my friends!

The BIG Giveaway starts TODAY!!!
read below on how to enter!
Valued at over $130 full of some of my favorite things (mostly from Anthropologie)

So here is how you can enter...(must do both to count!)

1. Become a Follower of Color Issue (by clicking the "join this site" on the right)

2. Let others know about it! Spread the good news on your own blog
(or FB/twitter)!!!
And please let me know where you shared!

~ ends next Friday, Oct. 21st ~

That's all! Good luck to you...and happy, happy Friday!

giveaway includes:

Anthropologie Harvest Calendar

Anthropologie Curvy Chrysanthemum Vase

Domino Book of Decorating

Anthropologie Large Wire Wrapped Magnifying Glass

Volcano Candle from Anthro

High Shimmer Bobby Brown Lip Gloss

Friday Friday.. We love Friday!

2011-10-14T13:45:00.000-07:00

Friday, one of my favorite days of the week. I get off work at 1 and get the rest of my day to do whatever I please. Today I shall start my journey at the Thrift Store by my old house. The hunt begins for something wonderful! Wish me luck! Here's some treasures I've found so far this month.

Pink Necklace 1/2 off = $1.48
3 earring= $1.50
Black Alfani Heels 1/2 off = $4.99
Cream/Gold Design Alfani Heels 1/2 off = $2.99
Two Necklaces = $3.00
5 belts = $3.00
Burgundy and Gold Carlos Santana Heels= $2.49

What's some of your best buys from thrift stores?

Oma's Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-13T21:53:00.000-07:00

My niece Desea who is in preschool had a field trip to the Pumpkin Patch today. Since I was watching Charity, who is pretty much like my sister in law, I thought it would be fun to meet up with my sister and nieces. The girls had a good time even though it was probably 100 degrees out and they were sweating like pigs!Avery wasn't up for taking many pictures, but I got some good ones of the girls. We Love Oma's Pumpkin Patch and look forward to our trip there next year.

The Girls Taking Funny Pictures

The Petting Zoo

The Cotton Hill... They Loved This

Picking Their Pumpkins

Avery Playing In The Water

Probably My Favorite Picture of the Day... I Love the Colors!

Pinterest Ideas...

2011-10-12T16:55:00.000-07:00

Since my sister in law Sarah interduced me to Pinterest, I've been addicted. When I saw this idea, I went on a hunt to all thrift stores for plates and candle holders. This person used glasses and plates, but I like the look of candle holders instead. I also saw these cookies and they looked delicious and since my sister came over to swim on this scorching hot day, we decided to make them. They were delicious! I put rolos in the middle of mine too.

Idea

My Result

The Idea

My Result

Happy Pinteresting!

Pumpkin Decorating

2011-10-10T13:26:00.000-07:00

Saturday night, Brad went with his brothers Jeff, Wes, Uncle Mike, and Grandpa Norris to the SDSU football game, which meant I could hang out at home or find something fun to do. So I called my sister and told her I was coming over with some pumpkins for the kids to decorate. I bought little pumpkins from the dollar store and some stickers of superheros for them to decorate with (my nieces are really into Spiderman right now). We did their initials with buttons and let them go at it with stickers. These are the ends results.

Avery

Jazzy

Cici

Desea

To The Zoo We Will Go

2011-10-08T13:59:00.000-07:00

Since I get off work early on Fridays we decided to take a little trip to the San Diego Zoo. Avery loves all the animals, but it took her awhile to get used to the Petting Zoo. Here's a few pics from our little adventure.

I love this little girl, how could you not, look at her!

I love her reflection in the window.

I loved these shoes and I couldn't resist.. Adorable right?

Pictures of the Grandkids

2011-10-04T18:41:00.000-07:00

So my mom has been wanting new pics of her Grandkids for awhile now and since my sister is in town from Arizona, we did FHE and pics at the Aiono's house. Lets just say that trying to take a picture with 9 children under the age of 4 is CRAZY!! We got some good ones and I must say, my parents have some beautiful and very handsome grandkids!

Hawk

Von

Desea

Jazzy

Avery

Ciela

Naomi

Reef

Taije

Sisters

Brothers

Nama, Papa and the Grandkids

The Crazy 9

Kiarra Nicole Collins

2011-09-29T15:00:00.001-07:00

Kiarra Nicole Collins,

Happy Birthday my beautiful baby girl. I can't believe that it's been 3 years. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you and how much I miss you. I'm pretty sure that Grandma Cordy is throwing you the best party ever because she always threw the best ones here. I must admit that I'm jealous of you because you get to be with Grandma Cordy and I'm jealous of her because she gets to be with you!! I know that my time will come when I get to see you both again and I look forward to that day. When I look at your three cousins Jazzy, Taije and Reefy, I think of you and always wonder if you'd be as crazy and energetic as they are. I often wonder if you'd be like your little sister Avery and be the most happy and caring little girl. The more that Avery gets older the more I think of what a great big sister you might have been. I remember going to conference right after I had you and the talk that inspired me most was titled "Come What May and Love It" . As much as I didn't want to love what happened, I knew that everything happens for a reason and that our Heavenly Father had a better plan for you! Joseph B. Wirthlin who gave that talk, said some very wise words that I often think and ponder about..

When we fell down, she expected us to pick ourselves up and get going again. So the advice my mother gave to me then wasn’t altogether unexpected. It has stayed with me all my life.

“Joseph,” she said, “come what may, and love it.”

I have often reflected on that counsel.

I think she may have meant that every life has peaks and shadows and times when it seems that the birds don’t sing and bells don’t ring. Yet in spite of discouragement and adversity, those who are happiest seem to have a way of learning from difficult times, becoming stronger, wiser, and happier as a result.

How can we love days that are filled with sorrow? We can’t—at least not in the moment. I don’t think my mother was suggesting that we suppress discouragement or deny the reality of pain. I don’t think she was suggesting that we smother unpleasant truths beneath a cloak of pretended happiness. But I do believe that the way we react to adversity can be a major factor in how happy and successful we can be in life.

If we approach adversities wisely, our hardest times can be times of greatest growth, which in turn can lead toward times of greatest happiness.

He later goes on to talk about ways that have helped him through times of testing and trials... 1. Learn to laugh 2. Seek for the Eternal 3.The Principal of Compensation 4. Trust in the Father and the Son

Through these 4 things, we can learn that trials can make us better individuals and bring us closer to our Father in Heaven. We have learned from this difficult time and it has brought our family closer together. We are at times stronger, but I do have my bad days. I am wiser because I know that Families are Forever and that I will be with you again one day! I am a happier person because Heavenly Father Blessed me with not only you, but your little sister and a wonderful family that has been nothing but supportive and loving!

I am trying to be a happier person for you and because of you!

I am trying to be a better person for you and because of you!

I am trying to make the best of every situation for you and because of you!

I am trying to live my life better (more perfect) for you and because of you!

I am trying to be the example that others want to follow for you and because of you!

I am trying to see others as Heavenly Father does for you and because of you!

I am trying to make a difference and touch others’ lives for you and because of you!

I am trying to Choose the Right every day for you and because of you!

I'm trying to be the mom I've always dreamed of for you and because of you!!

I want to be all this because I want you to be proud of your mom and When the time does come for us to meet again I hope I'm half the mom you pictured me to be!!

As time goes by I often wonder if it will ever be easier and then again, I don't want it to be because I want to think about you everyday and I want to be able to know that your watching over our little family. I'm thankful that we are together forever and that Families are Forever because that is what makes me happy! Until we meet again my baby girl! I love you with all my heart!

These are pictures from today when we celebrated your birthday!

Potty Training

2011-09-22T16:16:00.000-07:00

As Brad and I were talking the other day, we hear little Miss. Avery say, "Mommy, Daddy, Mommmyy!" and then silence. I look upstairs and in the kitchen, no baby to be found. Brad said, I bet she's in the bathroom. We open the half bath door and what do we find.... Our little almost 18 month old sitting in the toilet. Not sure if she was trying to let us know she is ready to start potty training, but we thought it was the funniest, cutest, kinda grossest thing ever!! Mommy and Daddy will be purchasing a little toilet for Miss. Avery to potty train her. The things she does to make us laugh! :)

Hiking We Will Go

2011-08-26T10:53:00.000-07:00

Brad was called as Scout Master in our ward at church. What does this mean for our little family? Lots of adventures/hikes. I'm all for the adventure part of it. I grew up camping in tents, whether it was at the river or the dessert, so I'm used to that. It's the hiking that gets to me. I'm not one to like hikes that consists of high mountains or hills, but it seems that the past few hikes we've gone on Brad has decided to tell me that they're nothing to worry about. WRONG!!

The first hiking adventure we went on was to Cottonwood Creek, up past Pine Valley. My mom joined us, which was fun because I always love spending time with her.

I love this picture of the little frog.

Brad has been wanting to Hike Cowles Mountain so yesterday we met my mom there and we ended up doing the challenging side. Brad said it was a lot easier than the 2.2 miles one way from Big Rock Park (Moderate level).

Cowles Mountain from Golfcrest Drive
1.5 miles one way
5 Challenging

We made it to the top and that's what counts!

Our little family...

Nama and Avery. Love this pic of them!

Our little Sleeping Beauty was wiped out!

4 Wonderful Years!!

2011-06-20T11:21:00.000-07:00

Brad and I celebrated our 4 year anniversary on Wednesday June 15th. We had a wonderful yummy dinner at Brigantine and I got Brad to try clams and mussels for the first time, he loved them of course! After dinner we went to the movies to see Fast 5, we both enjoyed it. We were both so stuffed from dinner that we decided to wait and get dessert after the movie. Of all the yummy places to get dessert in San Diego, we decided to go to Sonic! I got a yummy banana split as pictured below with just caramel, I'm not big on chocolate and pineapple on my banana splits.

Brad of course ordered a chocolate, peanut butter shake. He thoroughly enjoyed it as you can tell!!

We had a wonderful night and thank you Grammy and Grandpa for watching Avery! I'm soo lucky to be married to such a wonderful man! These past four years have been nothing, but wonderful. We have been blessed with two beautiful daughters, who have and do bring joy to our lives! I couldn't imagine going through the good times and bad with anyone else. Brad is the best husband and greatest daddy. I'm so glad your mine for Eternity! I love you Bradley Thomas.. I look forward to many more wonderful years with you!!

She's Finally Here!! April 7th, 2010!

2010-11-11T13:50:00.000-08:00

Friday morning April 2nd 2010

I was having the worst labor pains, so we went to the hospital. 2cm dilated, not enough to be admitted, so we walked around the hospital for two hours, but it seemed like eternity!! When we returned I was 2 1/2 cm dilated, still can't be admitted, so home sweet home we went.

Sunday night April 4th 2010

Major back labor pains, waayyy worse then before, waited a few hours at home before going. Measuring 3 cm dilated... still can't be admitted!! Wonderful, I just love having these stabbing pains in my back at all hours of the night, just hoping they would go away.

Tuesday Night into Wednesday morning April 6th and 7th 2010

Ok, this time the pain was 100 times worse, Brad being the wonderful husband he is said, "Lets wait a few hours so we don't go and end up getting sent back home." easy for him to say and back to bed he went, while I was in PAIN!! Finally I woke him up sometime around 4:45 am and said we need to go to the hospital NOW!!

(I forgot to mention, I wanted to have a natural birth because I'm not a fan of needles and I already had to get a an epidural when my cervix was stitched and I'm one of those people who if there's side affects, I get them. And sure enough when I had the epidural for my stitch I itched like crazy and it was just the most uncomfortable feeling ever!! So because of that I wanted to go natural.)

When we got to the hospital they checked me and I was at 4cm dilated... whoop whoop I've been waiting for this day for 9 months! I was admitted and put in my own little room in the High Risk part of Labor and Delivery. About 1 hour after being there, they broke my water... It was at that moment in time that I couldn't go natural.. I was feeling really nauseous and yep you guessed it, threw up and not just a little bit, it just kept coming out... luckily is was just liquid. I was in pain and all I wanted was an epidural.

The doctor didn't get the epidural right the first time and had to do it over. Once I got it, it was like heaven!! No more pain. So about 3 hours later I told the nurse one side of my body was a lot more numb, so she had me turn to my other side. Little did I know that when I was checked again one side of me was fully dilated and the other wasn't, So I turned again and when the doctor came in to check me I was ready to start pushing. I was so overwhelmed with excitement, but scared and nervous at the same time. Little did I know after pushing for about 20 min or so that I would be meeting the most beautiful little baby ever.

Avery Coredila Collins was born on April 7th 2010 at 7:24 pm. Weighing in at 6lbs 12 oz and 20 inches long. My life couldn't get much better then this! She's the perfect mixture of mommy and daddy! She reminds me a lot of her older sister Kiarra! I'm so very thankful to my Heavenly Father for blessing me with this perfect child! She brings soo much happiness into mine and Brad's life! We love her and can never get enough of her! My long 17 hours of labor was worth it, those past 9 months were worth it!

It's Easter and No Baby Yet!!

2010-11-11T13:22:00.000-08:00

I love this time of Year!! I must say, I was hoping that Avery would decide to come before Easter, but I guess she wanted to roast a little longer. The little kid inside me, loves this holiday! Especially when Gma Cordy does it. She always makes yummy food, puts on a fun Easter egg hunt (I still partake in it, you can never be to old) and gives everyone fun Easter baskets. The past three years my family has been invited and my nieces and nephews love it! I remember growing up and always getting excited for Easter and Christmas. My grandparents would always do the best Easter egg hunt when I was growing up. When my Aunt Cathy passed away, we just kind of stopped doing the family stuff and it was like a void during that time of year. I'm so glad Grandma Cordy believes that every Holiday is a time to party! It makes me think of my Aunt Cathy and how much she was like Grandma Cordy, always wanting to have a good time! So thank you Gma Cordy for making that void no longer be there and continuing the tradition! It's something I will continue to do with my family as it grows. Took a few, pics so enjoy...

It's about Time!!!

2010-11-11T12:29:00.000-08:00

Me and My Adorable Niece Desea

Well I haven't updated my blog in well.. FOREVER!! So what better time then now, when the baby is sleeping and work doesn't start for another hour!! So lets start with the most AMAZING baby shower my Best Friend Jacqueline threw for me in March. Boy does she know how to put on a shower/party! It was lots of fun.. yummy food... and good company.

Thank you Jack and family for throwing yet another wonderful party for me. I'm lucky to have you guys in my life. Jack your amazing and I can't thank you enough, what would a girl do without her best friend! Avery loves her Auntie Jack and loves the many gifts she received from everyone. To those who came, thank you for being a part of our lives we love you!!

32 Weeks...

2010-02-26T11:02:00.001-08:00

Our little Avery Cordelia was measuring 4lbs 4oz today!! This is a picture that I got today at my appointment... I think she is going to look a lot like her daddy, just like her sister Kiarra did!! She's been moving around like crazy inside my tummy.. I guess she takes after me because Brad wasn't very active from what he tells me. WE are getting soo excited! Time has gone by so fast and I think it's only going to keep going by faster. I'm excited to meet and hold my beautiful little girl.. it's only a matter of time!! We love you Avery!!

My Beautiful Little Niece!!!

2010-01-21T13:20:00.000-08:00

Ciela Hoku ala Hope Olayan..
Arrived on January 11, 2010
She weighed 7 lbs 1oz and was 18 inches long

I'm so excited to be an Auntie again!! Lots of people think that she looks like Jazzy, but I'd have to disagree! I love her sooo much and plan on spoiling her just as much as I do my other nieces and nephews!! Seeing her in the hospital makes me more and more anxious for my little Avery to arrive... 27 weeks down.. 13 to go! I can't wait!!

Can't get enough of these two!!

2009-12-09T18:54:00.000-08:00

My nephews are so dang cute!! I love them to pieces!!
My brother-in-law Jared took these... he's one talented photographer!!

Family Trip To Julian...

2009-11-17T18:32:00.000-08:00

Last week for Veteran's Day my family minus my two brother in laws decided to take a trip to Julian. We love Julian especially for the yummy apple pies. I must say though my mom ordered a peach pie and it was pretty good, it might be my favorite now. This was the first time that my nieces and nephews got to go, so it was a lot of fun! Julian is a place my family has been going to for years, even though it's small and we've been in every store about 50 times, we love it! Here are a few pics from the trip....Jazzy, Desea, and Reef ready to go...

Reef at the restaurant with a cowboy hat

Uncle Brad showing Desea how to put the coins in the machine.

Desea so excited about her smashed Julian dime!

Erika, Stevie, and Jazzy

Nama and Jazzy smiling for the camera

Desea Loves her Uncle Brad

Papa and Taige

Papa and Reefy

Jazzy couldn't get enough of her sucker.... She didn't want to let it go.

Taije loving his yummy pie crust cookie.

Brother, Sisterly LOVE!!!

They can never get enough of their Papa!!

As Time Gets Closer...

2009-09-04T20:35:00.000-07:00

Taije visiting his cousin Kiarra for the first time.

At the end of this month it will be a year since I had my beautiful little girl who is in Heaven. These past few visits to the cemetery have been really hard for me! There have been times when all I've wanted to do is just stay at home and lay in bed and other times when I just wanted to be with my family. As much as I'd like to think that it's going to get easier over time, I know that I'm always going to have my bad days, but that is when I know that I can go to my father in heaven for help and comfort. My husband Brad has been nothing, but wonderful to me through this and I love him more and more each day. I have a family friend who posted this poem on her page... this poem describes how I've been feeling lately.

Surviving...

People often ask me what it's like to lose a child, this poem describes what I feel sometimes.

My Mom Is A Survivor

My mom is a survivor,
Or so I’ve heard it said.
But I can hear her crying at night
When all others are in bed.

I watch her lay awake at night
And go to hold her hand.
She doesn't know I’m with her
To help her understand.

But like the sands on the beach
That never wash away…
I watch over my surviving mom,
Who thinks of me each day.

She wears a smile for others…
A smile of disguise!But though
Heaven’s door I see
Tears flowing from her eyes.

My mom tries to cope with death
To keep my memory alive.
But anyone who knows her, knows
It is her way to survive.

As I watch over my surviving mom
Through Heaven’s open door…
I try to tell her that angels
Protect me forevermore.

I know that doesn’t help her…
Or ease the burden she bears.
So if you get a chance, go visit her…
And show her that you care.

For no matter what she says…
No matter what she feels.
My surviving mom has a broken heart
That time won’t ever heal.

By Kaye Des’Ormeaux

Reef Tamiati Aiono

2009-06-08T12:11:00.000-07:00

Reef Tamiati Aiono was born on April 6, 2009. He weighed 7 pounds 7 ounces and was 20 inches long. What a handsome little boy he is! Like my other nieces and nephew... I can't get enough of him!! I consider myself so blessed to have such beautiful and handsome nieces and nephews!!
I get so excited when I see Reef and can't wait to give him lots of little kisses!!! He's got his mommy's toes and everything else is pretty much from his daddy... He's one of the most perfect little babies!!! I love my nephew Reefy!!

Catching Up

2009-01-20T10:13:00.000-08:00

Well were to start....

On December 14, 2008 my nephew John Taije was born he was 6lbs 14oz and 20'' long. He's the most handsome and precious little boy. I don't think I've ever seen so much hair on a baby before.

He definitely looks like my sister-in-law Sarah, but has his daddy's hair. My Brother-in-Law Jared who is an amazing photographer took these pictures of Taije and they had his announcements made from them.

As much as times like these are hard for me, there's nothing I want more then to be with my nieces and nephew. When I hold them and look into their eyes they bring me this happiness that reminds me of the few hours that I got to hold me precious little baby girl. They're my joy and I love spending time with them.

Dec 25th
Christmas was wonderful my husband surprised me with an iphone...
I'm not one to like surprises, but this one was definitely a good one. He also got me gift cards because I LOVE to shop. He wasn't surprised at all he knew everything he was getting because he's pretty picky.... He got the high top Supra's he wanted and a complete skate deck and lots of iTunes gift cards. So I must say Christmas was a success.

January 9, 2009
Brad, Jeff, Scott and Matt left to Hawaii tell the 16th. If there's anything that I'm not a fan of, it's my husband being away from me for more than a day. But being the wonderful wife I am I shared him with his sister and brother. Thank you Lindsay and Cameron for letting them stay with you and making them yummy dinners! While Brad was away I got to play... Just kidding, I stayed with my parents in their empty home and enjoyed it. My parents are wonderful and I love them to death. We ate out every night and I gained weight instead of loosing it. But to my surprise I did get a five day weekend, thanks to the wonderful family that I nanny for. So I got to relax and sleep in.

January 16, 2009
Brad got home... SOOOO happy!! Also that night Jeff performed at club 12 twenty-five. My brother-in-law is one of the most talented people that I know. His concert was amazing. I could just watch him and his band play for hours. After his performance a bunch of people went to
Por Favor for dinner, so delicious. My mother-in-law Carrie wanted me to take a picture of her with this huge NON-alcholic margarita so here it is.....
She cracks me up!

January 18, 2009
My 22nd Birthday!! Boy do I feel old. As I look over the past 22 years of my life I've accomplised so much, but have so much more to accomplish. Just to name a few...
-Graduating high school (honor grad)
-Playing volleyball for 4 years
-Being homecoming queen
-Being Senior Class president
-Going to a UC
-Becoming an aunt
-Marrying the love of my life
-Becoming a mom
I look forward to the many more birthdays that I have! Thanks to those who helped make it so special!

I was also privilaged to hear my brother-in-law Jeff give his farewell talk in church. He brought tears to our eyes. He did an amazing job and I feel blessed to be his sister-in-law. I'm excited for him to serve the Lord and for him to teach the people of Mexico. I know he'll work hard and be an amazing missionary. I'm looking forward to spoiling him with lots and lots of packages.

For now that is it, but until I post again.....have a wonderful day!!

This Saturday Dec. 13

2008-12-09T19:08:00.000-08:00

So Brad and my cousin Bill have started a clothing company and their jump off party is this Saturday Dec. 13 at 6:00 pm at Brads parents house. Their address is...
10230 Pebble Beach Dr., Santee, Ca. One and all are invited. They're selling their shirts at a discount price, and free shades will be given away to the first 100 people. Also, Jeff my brother-in-law will be playing with his band. You won't want to miss it. If for some crazy reason you can't be there you can go to their website at whynotlevant.com.

Catching up

2008-12-01T18:17:00.001-08:00

A lot has happened since I last blogged. We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with my father-in-laws side of the family and yummy dessert with my mother-in-laws side. I made a yummy pumpkin chocolate chip cake from scratch that was delicious. I'll post recipe later. Then every year Brads grandma Cordy goes shopping on black Friday, this was my second year going. So Brad and I woke up at 5:00 am and met Grandma. We almost got all of our shopping done. We had lots of fun with Grandma.

We started at Target..... Not as crazy as last year

Then to radio shack... pretty much empty

Macy's..... pretty crazy! I think Grandma Cordy
and I smelled every perfume possible.

and last, but not least Costco

I love shopping and especially when I'm getting things for other people. I think I spoil my nieces a little to much!

So being the kind of person that I am, I decided to go to target today and get a tree. The one thing I love about Christmas is the smell of the Christmas tree when you first walk through the door. Since we don't have that much room in our cute little house, I decided to get a little charlie brown tree. Brad wouldn't let me get new ornaments because we don't have room for them, so I used last years. So here's the final product.... (please excuse the boxes, they are full of Levant shirts for sale )

I love this time of year, all the Christmas lights, cold weather, cuddling with Brad, and spending time with the families. Only 16 days tell Christmas and I'm really excited!!!

2008-11-05T10:06:00.000-08:00

The greatest picture ever or my cute little niece holding a prop 8 sign. She's YES on 8!

A Little Something..

2008-10-21T10:09:00.000-07:00

Well I never thought we'd have one of these, but my sister-in-law Lindsay has told us a few times to get one, so I figured why not. A lot has happened in the life of Brad and Ashley. We're both attending school, Brad is very excited about going to UCSD next semester, I couldn't be more happier for him. He's also starting a clothing company with my cousin Bill, I will keep you updated on the progress of that. I'm still at Grossmont and planning to transfer in 2010. (I guess that's what I get for coming home to get married to the love of my life). We both work full time Brad just quit working at Volcom last week and lets just say I took advantage of his discount. He is now focusing on working for his dad more. This was my first week back after having 3 weeks off and lets just say it's hard going back.

Brad and I were blessed with a beautiful daughter on September 29, she was the most beautiful and perfect little girl I've ever seen. Due to complications I went into early labor at 5 1/2 months, she was born to early and is now in heaven with her great grandfather and Aunt Cathy who I know are taking good care of her. She is her fathers daughter, she looks just like him! This has been one of the hardest things that me and Brad have ever had to experience, but there's nothing better then having the knowledge that we are sealed to her and will one day be with her again. My cousin Danny sent me a quote that should be shared with anyone who goes through something like this,

"The Lord takes away many, even in infancy, that they may escape the envy of man, and the sorrows and evils of this present world; they were too pure, too lovely, to live on earth; therefore, if rightly considered, instead of mourning we have reason to rejoice as they are delivered from evil, and we shall soon have them again." -Joseph Smith

I'm thankful to my Heavenly Father for blessing us with this perfect child, who was to perfect to be here. As much as I wish she was still with us I know that my Heavenly Father has a plan for each and everyone of us and hers is in heaven.

Having the gospel in our life's is such a blessing. It's amazing how giving people are in times like these. We're so blessed to have such wonderful friends and family, who have showed us so much love and support these past few weeks. We Love You All!!

We're excited, well at least I am about trying out this whole blogging thing. So ta ta for now!