Frances Mari Burkett - Mother, Writer, Friend

My crazy kids

2011-04-29T11:51:00.000-07:00

Who's Who in U.S. Spanish-Language Publishing—The Faces Behind the Books

2010-05-25T07:35:00.000-07:00

http://www.criticasmagazine.com/article/CA6362690.html

Great article

My new short story. El arete.

2010-05-24T11:50:00.000-07:00

Esta noche, hablé, gozé, bebí y fumé con amigos que conocí hace solo dos días. El de ojos azules y acento de telenovela me besó en el elevador. ¿Ó lo besé yo? No importa quien besó a quien. En el segundo piso, en su cuarto, en el lado derecho de su cama, el miraba mis ojos cerrados, con una sonrisa siniestra que yo no veía.

“¡Qué preciosa!” mi amante de diez minutos me decía. “Mírame. ¿Porqué te escondes? Abre los ojos.” Poderoso como un dictador pero tierno como una nena de catorce.

Me seguía hablando y haciendo preguntas. Y yo, con los ojos apretados para no aflojar nada, decía cosas sin sentido que sonaban muy originales para aliviar mi mortificación de desnudez. ¿Porque me había desnudado si el aún estaba vestido? Me había besado fuerte primero, respirando como si le faltaba aire. Después suave, casi sin tocar mis labios con los suyos. Sus manos estaban igual de indecisas, como si al tocarme en aquel lugar bajo el ombligo hubiese visto todos mis males y se había arrepentido.

Ahí estaba yo, victoriosa ante el debate interno de mi moral, entregada por completo a alguien cuyo apellido era de otra y a la misma vez viendo, por primera vez, los ojos de alguien en su propio debate.

Ahora él, mi amante de veinte minutos, me pide que me ponga mi ropa. Pero no lo hago immediatamente. Pensé que era uno de esos juegos, obviamente influenciada por la historia corta que había leido esta tarde sobre el “foreplay,” en el cual No era Si, y Véte era Quédate.

Lo sabía. Me besó de nuevo, mi amante de veinticinco minutos. Las mariposas salieron de su jaula, pero gracias a Dios, se quedaron debajo de la piel y no escaparon. Y pensé por un segundo que me quedaba, que sí me quería, que por fin había ganado el juego amoroso antes del coito. Pero su beso moría, era lento como un adiós triste. Sin emoción. Sin respirar fuerte ni abrir la boca para dejar entrar mi lengua desesperada.

“Uno más,” susurré. “Uno más.”

Mi amante de cuarenta minutos se despegó de mi pecho. Su mano, la que yo anhelaba en mi pecho, recogió mi blusa del suelo. Tierno, me pegó un beso en la frente como si fuese mi padre. Y ví su espalda amplia mientras se alejaba de mí, su espalda que hacía unos segundos había rayado con mis uñas.

Abrió la puerta de su cuarto de hotel, aún yo sin terminar de abotonarme el pantalón. Y yo, por no dejarlo esperando en la puerta--que considerada--me salí sin ponerme los zapatos ni ajustarme el pelo. Esperaba un “Espera” ó un “No te vayas.” Y hasta cuando la puerta cerró, sentí que se habriría nuevamente en cualquier momento.

Esperé.

Mi cuarto no estaba lejos, pero iba lenta por el casi “walk of shame” a ver si mi ex-amante se arrepientía. La puerta abriría en cualquier momento. En el elevador, el botón de Door Open le mantuvo compañía a mi dedo por diez minutos.

Es la barriga, lo sé, y el aliento de borrachona que heredé de mi abuela paterna. Mi amigo-luego-amante se había convertido en solo otro destrozador hypócrita de mi ego. “Eres linda pero véte. Que suave tu piel pero vístete.”

¿Qué dirá mi marido cuando le pregunte que porqué nunca me acaricia mi cara como me la acarició el casi-casi? Obviamente tendré que reformular esa pregunta para no delatar lo que no pasó aquí esta noche: que mi dictador me mordió el brazo, que todavía siento sus dientes ahí, que me toco la cara como nunca nadie y acarició mi pelo estirado por un buen rato, y que pasó sus dedos de escritor sobre mis labios hasta que me dolían, hasta que no podían. ¿Que dirá mi esposo cuando le diga que se me perdió el arete que me regaló el Dia de las Madres? ¿Qué dirá la esposa de mi casi-casi cuando encuentre ese arete, el cual dejé en su maleta para que me recuerde.

Fué mi culpa. Fué que me gustó demasiado. Mi papá decía que al comprar un auto, no te debes emocionar mucho cuando te gusta porque no puedes negociar. Miré por el agujero de la puerta de mi cuarto a ver si se había arrepentido. Y lloré en luto al hombre que no había muerto, sino que dormía solito en el cuarto 241, sin mí.

¡No! Voy a verlo. Es un juego. Abrí mi puerta.

Excerpt:

2010-05-02T21:55:00.000-07:00

Nate took a step back, and I could not help but feel an overwhelming insignificance. A reminder of our vast physical gap. If I had considered myself a nobody in a world full of somebodies, comparing me to him only assured my status as a big-fat-zero. Then again--and I gave myself some credit by allowing this thought to enter my mind--he seemed to be somewhat interested in me. Didn’t he?

A subdued breeze sent leaves tumbling across the graveyard; the lucky ones attached themselves to his jeans, while others merely rocketed and plunged tenderly around him. And he released my hand though I had been the one holding it fast.

“Don’t leave,” I begged. The masochist in me loved every second of this torture.

“You dropped your scarf,” he said.

Nate bent down to grab what looked like a red snake on the green grass. “You ask me not to leave you,” he said, “but have you considered...?” With his hand on his head as he paused, he looked like he could physically massage his brain into giving him the right words. Then, he lowered his perfect finger onto his perfect lips as if to lure the words out of them with a simple,

“Come here.” He said, “I am the one who should ask you to stay.” And he looked at me.

I should have put on a diaper before leaving the house; I was on the verge of messing myself. About to faint and puke at the same time. Was he saying those words, or was I imagining them?

“I, no...” Would it be ridiculous to ask him to pinch me or slap me. Better ask him to kiss me, instead.

He neared my scarf to his face, closed his eyes, and inhaled. With his lids closed and the sun hitting him just so, he looked like the angel in my dreams. I imagined him like this. This close to me. This beautiful. Until now, all I’d had was the hope of something amazing. And now, amazing stared at me with his fire-eyes as he walked toward me with my scarf in his hands, extended forward as though it were an offering of peace.

He placed the scarf around my neck. And when I looked up to him, close to me as he was, my knees almost gave out.

“Nate,” I whispered. I cleared my throat to try to mask that ridiculous quiver in my voice.

“Yes?” he asked. Oh, he knew his effect on me. That little smirk. That little beautiful smile between those rose lips.

His hands played with my scarf for just a second before his touch melted on my face as hot as the sun itself, yet a wave of cold hit my face. His breath, it was so cold, and it caressed me with each breath he took. But no matter how used I was getting to his closeness, nothing could have prepared me for the way I felt when his rockstar lips rushed into mine. I could have sworn that this kiss had its own guitar solo playing in the background.

I moaned when his lips separated from mine. And I stared into his eyes as if the meaning of life were hidden there, the code to humankind’s existence. The cemetery began to spin as if a rollercoaster operator had pressed the Go button. His hands were on my face--his hot, blistering hands. They were the only thing steadying me. With his nose on my nose, he smiled a little. My body was shaking, my breath uneven. Oh, he knew what he was doing.

And, as though my arms were entities of their own, they suddenly wrapped around his neck. I raised my body on its tippy toes and leaned forward. This time, he moaned. He was moaning for me.

Victor who? First kiss what?

This was it. The kiss to judge all other kisses upon. His cold tongue danced a mouth-watering ballet, while I gasped for air during the interludes. The guitar solo in its crescendo.

It was love at first sight, second sight, third sight, and forever sight. A storm of love erupting amid the white somnambulistic statues weighing down graves. A volcano of crazy-hot lava that sizzled on my skin with each touch and each kiss.

Why A Writer's Conference Is Important by W. Terry Whalin

2010-04-14T08:07:00.000-07:00

It's a personal investment to attend a writer's conference. Whether you attend for a full day or spend several days in another state, it will involve investing your time, energy and money. In these pages, I will explore some of the reasons to attend these meetings, links and helps to find information about where to find these gatherings along with other resources to help you improve your writing skills.

Like many other kinds of businesses, the writing business is relational. Talent, craft and skill does enter the consideration but it's also who you know. Possibly you are new to this field and you are crying, "I don't know anyone." That's OK. Everyone has to begin somewhere in this journey. You don't have to stay in that situation. Through writer's conferences, you can begin to form some editor relationships.

Almost twenty years ago, I began attending these specialized meetings. I worked on a magazine staff and we understood the benefits and accordingly we used our slim financial resources to send staff members to meetings. It helped their professional development and also helped improve their ability to work on our magazine. I've attended conferences for my own personal development and professionalism.

In recent years, I've represented publishing houses as an acquisitions editor at these gatherings. Now I'm going to these conferences as a publisher. As an editor and an agent, the experience has been eye-opening to me and changed some of my perspectives. I've got some amazing stories about pushy conferees trying to convince me to purchase a particular manuscript. A pushy attitude usually backfires and makes the editor or agent want to run instead of listen carefully to your idea. Always remember that you want to make a good impression on the editor or the agent.

Even as a publisher, I continue to select at least one conference a year that I attend as a regular conferee--i.e. a paying participant and not someone who attends to represent a publisher or magazine and teach workshops. One conference that I regularly attend for my own development is the annual conference for the American Society of Journalists and Authors in New York City.

The schedule is posted on their website and it is a broad reaching event. I've met editors at Ladies Home Journal, Woman's Day, Modern Maturity, Money magazine, and numerous mainstream book editors. Several years ago at the ASJA member meeting, President and Mrs. Carter came to the session. One of the ASJA members wrote a book with Mrs. Carter and they were invited. I managed to give President Carter a copy of my then new book, Lessons From the Pit. Such a connection came from attending a conference.

Conferences have been a large part of my writing career. Often at these conferences, editors and agents are inundated with the wrong material because writers haven't done their homework. So often writers will send the wrong material to the wrong place and wasted everyone time--the writer and the editor or the agent. At a writer's conference, you meet the editors face to face and realize that they are also real people. This process begins to form your relationship. Then when you send in your material, they recall your name (or you can recall it to their attention saying,

"It was great to meet you at ______ conference..."

Three Pieces of Advice

1. Do your homework. Know who will be attending the conference and readin advance what a particular editor needs and acquires (even the Writer's Market Guide is a good place to start). Then craft an idea, a proposal or something to start the conversation with this editor. Give them something they need. Editors read lots of stuff that they don't need at these conferences. Why? Because they are looking for the jewel in the stack, then they can publish that manuscript. It could be your writing if you do your homework.

2. Make a point to get to know different editors--even outside of your particular genre. What you write this year may change next year. Even if you've never written a book, get to know the book editors. Sit at their tables and talk with them about your dreams and hopes. And throughout the week, make little notes of things which strike you--then read your notes when you get home and follow through. You would be surprised how few people actually execute the necessary follow through work.

3. Learn your craft but also look to expand your writing horizon. This advice would be for newcomers but also for the veteran. I'd encourage everyone to take a class outside of what they normally take. If you don't write for children, take a children's workshop. If you have never written a personal experience article then take a one hour workshop on this topic. It might open a new door of opportunity in your writing life.

I've made some dear friends at writer's conferences and that's why I look forward to going to various conferences. It's my opportunity to help others and give back. I'm constantly learning new things as a writer--and a writer's conference is a place to soak it in.

In love with this passage.

2010-04-09T13:31:00.001-07:00

When my father and I walked back into his house, we found that Sandra’s dog had been possessed by The Tazmanian Devil. It was more funny than scary, but if that thing had been a Pit Bull, it would have killed us both.

Anne Rice commented on my Facebook comment again! I knew it! We're besties now!

2010-04-08T10:33:00.000-07:00

This is her facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/#!/annericefanpage?ref=mf

This is the video i commented on: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5A23wS8EOt4

This was the description of the video: Internationally bestselling author Anne Rice answers questions from North Decatur High School, Greensburg, Indiana, IN.

Stacey Lane's comment:

Stacey Lane I love this. Thank you Anne. I do the same thing. Keeps me up at night, beacons to me in the grocery, the shower..I have to carry a mini notebook these days.

My comment: Frances Mari Burkett Are you in Indiana right now?

Andreea Dee That is sooo right! :D

Frances Mari Burkett I live in Indiana, is why i was asking. I am stuck in three projects right now. I must stop coming up with new ideas!!! LOL!

Ivy Gm Eata ^^ This is very true.

Angelica Ariaga I relished Ms. Anne's detalied and intricate storytelling. Such a special gift in writing.

Julie Wilson I look forward to these video portraits every day. I liked the verb, 'yield' in today's piece, explaining how a story is finally brought to fruition in a writer's mind.

This is where she replied to me:

Anne Rice No, I wasn't in Indiana. This was done via SKYPE or video conferencing, which makes it possible for me to chat with students worldwide. We've got a wonderful set up here for such interviews.

Georgie Pendragon The ideas you can't get away from... I have low resistance 'get away from', lol.

Diana Mistera those ideas that i can't get out of my head...I have so many of them...:)

Georgie Pendragon "Are you in Indiana"..sounds like a title. See!?

Anne Rice and I are BFFs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-04-06T16:59:00.001-07:00

Desde ayer, lunes 5 abril 2010, el canal 3 de 8pm - 9pm está trasmitiendo en su programa Puertorriqueñísimo al pueblo de San Sebastián. La transmisión acerca de Pepino será a lo largo de esta semana en dicho canal y horario.
=)

My new favorite website!

2010-03-29T10:04:00.001-07:00

This is an online writer-to-writer critiquing forum. I am in love with it! You will be too after just one visit!

http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/index.php

New 'Music' From Lindsay Lohan!

2010-03-29T10:02:00.000-07:00

New 'Music' From Lindsay Lohan!

'Real Housewives of Atlanta': Uncovering Big Poppa

2010-03-29T10:00:00.000-07:00

'Real Housewives of Atlanta': Uncovering Big Poppa

I want one!!!

2010-03-29T09:55:00.000-07:00

Apple is slowly launching us into the future!
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/29/technology/29apple.html?ref=business

The healthcare debate!

2010-03-18T10:02:00.001-07:00

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/18/opinion/18kristof.html

Excerpt from my Young Adult Novel: Vicky's Coffin. Thoughts?

2010-02-25T08:08:00.000-08:00

I felt ecstasy at the sight of him amongst the graves, so much time had passed, fantasizing I could travel to a world where he could be mine, where I could touch the things that have touched him and link his life with my own. I envied the leaves that grazed his skin and the dirt beneath his feet. I imagined running to him, letting him take me away. Whoever he was, whatever he was, did not matter. I felt groggy, a feeling only compared to laughing gas at the dentist given how light and airy I felt. It was a high I couldn’t seek drugs powerful enough to imitate. He was my painkiller, medicine’s equivalent to the discovery of penicillin, the adrenaline that would restart my heart if it stopped from so many stops and gos, the antidepressant that would bring me back from the hollows of self-destruction, and--soon enough--the antipsychotic I would need if I told anyone what my thoughts sounded like right now.

Robsten Leaves the BAFTAs Together!

2010-02-25T07:59:00.000-08:00

They tried to keep it coy and pretended to be totally oblivious of each other at the 2010 BAFTA Awards, but Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart were spotted leaving the event together!

The rumored couple managed to remain apart for the entire award ceremony and even through the after party. But just at the last second they were photographed leaving together.

Does this mean they are together TOGETHER? NO. But it still makes you pause!

New Robert Pattison movie (Remember me) review:

2010-02-25T07:56:00.000-08:00

I can’t wait until March 12th to see Remember Me, so imagine my delight to find out that Much Music has already posted a review! It’s mostly spoiler free
Remember Me, tells the story of two people who meet through an unusual twist of fate and develop a relationship that may be threatened by some deep-rooted secrets.

Here’s what they say we can expect from Rob in the film:

•Rob in a T-shirt and jeans
•Rob getting wet in the shower
•Rob shirtless in bed

That’s enough for me!

No honestly, they also say that the movie definitely showcases Pattinson’s acting chops, rather than his good looks and charm. His character, Tyler, is an impulsive and rebellious college student struggling to deal with a death in the family and to re-start his life. It’s a mature and dramatic departure for Rob and costar, Emilie de Ravin, which may surprise some of their younger fans.

They also say that the ending is a stunner. Oh no!

The Ten Mistakes « Holt Uncensored – Pat Holt on Books, Book Publishing Industry, Reviews

2010-02-23T12:08:00.000-08:00

The Ten Mistakes « Holt Uncensored – Pat Holt on Books, Book Publishing Industry, Reviews

Thursday, August 7th, 2008

2008-08-07T18:23:00.000-07:00

I dropped my niece with my sister in law at the halfway point between Valparaiso and North Judson. I took the opportunity and I let her take Jasmine to her aunt's house, who's having a sleepover for her 3 year old. For a second I thought Jasmine would cry as I was loading her up in my sister in law's car, but she looked at me as she sat with no car seat in the back of the van, and smiled. She said with joy: "Bye mommy, bye..." I was happy to see that we wouldn't be going through the horrible goodbye of it all, but it was certainly sad to see my baby so detached. She was happy to go. Growing up so fast. It's fun, but sad!

I stopped by the post office as soon as I dropped her off and went inside to send back the Shutterfly book I purchased through the website of Jasmine's second birthday. Turns out, my aunt had about 20 more pictures of the event that I didn't know about. Thankfully, when I called customer service, they said they would refund it and i can order a new one. That's why I love www.shutterfly.com and I recommend it to everybody.

After that, I wanted to go everywhere. Having only one 9 month old to worry about is great. I wish I would've taken advantage of having only one child when it was just Jasmine and I. First, I stopped at Winfield because I've been meaning to do a tour of the child care that Jasmine will be attending. Turns out it's closed til August 27. That's strike one... Then, I wanted to go to Direct Buy because I want to look at the dining room chest we'll be buying. Steven called and said to stop at Sam's Club for a few things. When he asked me why I wanted to go to Direct Buy, he replied; "not right now." Strike 2... No more strikes thankfully. We ate at Texas Corral, where you can eat all the peanuts you want and throw the shells on the floor. I kept asking Steven if it was okay to throw them on the floor. It felt weird. We went to JC Penney home store after dinner to buy a blender. We're making margaritas baby! That comment goes out to my beloved brother in law, who loves me, but loves gossip even more! I love gossip as much as the next person, but I learned my lesson many years ago. It always came back to bite me in the ass. NEVER AGAIN!

One blender, and many many decorating ideas later, we were out of the store and headed home. This week, I went to www.HGTV.com and applied to get a room makeover. I hope we get picked. It will be the highlight of my life.

My dad called today. I wished he called more often. His new family is beautiful, but we were a family once as well. I miss him...

Last day of Steven's vacation!

2008-07-20T13:50:00.000-07:00

Today, Sunday, July 20th, 2008, is Steven's last day of vacation. Tomorrow, not only does he have to go back to work, but he is also on call! What a pain! The basement is almost finished, and I should be able to start the refinancing steps this week. Porter County Fair started this week. We might go check it out, but for now, we are all 4H Fair-ed OUT! We went to the Starke County Fair EVERY DAY last week! It was fun and all, but the heat was too much. I don't think we've been able to catch up on our sleep, and Jasmine's routine is officially messed up! We went to see Batman The Dark Knight yesterday but before that we had dinner at Applebee's. Steven's coworker Rihannon came to babysit. The movie was amazing and during dinner, the supervisor came and gave us free desserts due to some misunderstanding with the hostess. SCORE!
When we got home, Rihannon said that Jasmine kept climbing out of her crib and ended up sleeping on the floor. Once she left, Steven transferred her to her crib. At 3am, she woke up screaming and I had to give her some water and put her back to bed. I was surprised she fell asleep so fast. The night before that one, she had been a nightmare because she's been so tired from the fair all week.

I have a quatrillion pictures from the Fair, but I wont post them all. I'm making a remix with the best ones!

Also, this last week, we went to the Picture People, and got Family Pictures taken!!!

Trip to Gatlinburg, TN for a family reunion!

2008-07-04T14:21:00.000-07:00

Monday, May 5th, 2008

2008-05-05T17:15:00.000-07:00

Today has been a slow day. Tranquility at its best. Jasmine has been behaving so good compared to other days. The terrible 2s have definitely arrived early. Alexander took an amazing two and a half hour nap at the same time as Jasmine did. I had time to be online, watch the news, finish the photo book project and order it, balance the checkbook, pay some bills...

Saturday was my jewelry party. Turnout wasn't great but it was a good time. Steven hated it but it wasn't up to him. I got 91 bucks worth of free jewelry after it was all done. Not bad, but its not the reason why I was having the party. I did it for Angie.

It started raining just now. Now I can really say that today is tranquility at its best. My cousin Ida and her boys spent the weekend here. We went to bed super late Saturday night. We just talked and talked. She's super fun. Sunday morning, I was a bit slow getting out of bed cause I was so tired. We went out to breakfast and then came back home.

I bought some materials to make California Rolls here. I figured I would teach her how to make them, instead, she schooled me on it. She was so good at rolling them. Her rolls were so pretty and mines were as ugly as can be. Too funny!

Last week, we got to see the movie Forgetting Sarah Marshall. It was so incredibly funny! Arielle and Jeff babysat.

Tomorrow Indiana votes. Wonder who will take the state. I can't wait!!!
Steven is still at work. Poor dude. I bet he can't wait for our vacation in Las Vegas. It's gonna be awesome. I can't wait to see mom, and she can't wait to see Jasmine and Alexander! I heated up some lasagne today. I know Steven will love it; if he ever gets home. LOL!

It's gonna be sort of a busy week. Tomorrow, the drywall for the basement gets delivered. This past Saturday, a guy came for a drywall estimate. Part one of the electrical is done. The plumbing and vent guy comes tomorrow for a more in depth estimate and then we're on our way to a finished basement. I can't wait. Once the basement is finished, we'll be able to refinance. I hope the rate doesn't go up!!!

On Wednesday, I'm finally getting my IUD placed. No more babies for me! Two is more than enough!!!

On Thursday, Angie is having a Tupperware party at 6pm. I hope Steven gets out of work on time. If not, I don't think I'm gonna be able to make it! I just can't do it with two kids.

I need to have everything packed for Vegas by Friday cause we must leave super early on Saturday morning. Ida will be taking us. Also, the kitchen oven and stove fan have been malfunctioning, so the repair man will be here on Friday.

I need to get something done with this hair before I get to Vegas. Maybe also a pedicure. We'll see what this week brings!

Saturday was our niece Arielle's prom. She stopped by our house to show how beautiful she looked. Her boyfriend Jeff reminded me of Jose the way he was dressed. He had a white suit on with orange accents. It was a blond clone of my brother. On Sunday, we went to Margaret's house for some cake and ice cream, celebrating Natalie and Kyle's birthday. We left super fast cause Steven wanted to get back and get the garage back in order. He painted it this weekend with an epoxy coating. It looks great now. Maybe later I'll post a before and after picture. That would be cool.

I just found Jasmine sitting on Alexander's head!

2008-04-28T11:58:00.000-07:00

I heard my cell phone ringing and it was mom. I was talking to her for exactly one minute when i went into Jasmine's playroom to put away a couple of toys. When I came out, I saw Jasmine sitting on Alexander's head. His nose was squished against the floor while she sat on the back of his head and neck. I exploded. I screamed so loud: "You're gonna kill him!" Mom asked me what was going on, but I was still screaming, checking if Alexander was okay. When Alexander heard my loud voice, he started crying also. Two crying babies, while a concerned mami on the phone asking me what's going on! Talk about too much going on!!!

I need to relax now. Alexander is fine, drinking his milk in the swing, while Jasmine is sitting in her thinking chair and I came to check my email while talking to Steven who called me for the first time all day. He's having a busy day!

Margaret and Arielle are coming over today after some shopping in Merrilville to kill time til 4:30pm, when Natalie has a track meet in Kouts. Today is my friend Evelyn's 29th Birthday. I text her but she hasn't text me back! I woke up at 6:50am today and remembered that I needed to email my friend Annette the pictures from our vacation to Florida. I finally got that done.

Many things to do today!!! Call the insurance company, again, because they keep sending me the most outrageous bills. Doesn't insurance pay for ANYTHING anymore?

The MORNING of a mom!

2008-04-15T12:11:00.000-07:00

April 15th, 2008

Wake up at 6:15am
Times woken up by Alexander through the night = 9
Jasmine wake up 6:30am
Jasmine potty 6:40 am, 8:37am, 9:22, 11:21, 11:59am
Change Alexander's diaper and pajamas
Downstairs to make breakfast by 7:10am
Take dog outside, High of 70 today.
Start load of laundry
Peel orange for Jasmine 7:15am
Alexander crying (held him from 7:17 til 7:22am)
Bottle of formula for Alexander 7:22am
Breakfast for Jasmine and I 7:30am (Eggs and Toast)
Alexander crying (held him from 7:37 til 7:42am)
Load up Dishwasher and start it up
Clean kitchen
Sippy cup for Jasmine 7:53am
Alexander taking a nap 7:55am
Put on Jack's Big Music Show 7:55am
Put clothes in the dryer 8:03am
Clean counter surfaces in laundry room 8:05am
Start filling out invitations for the jewelry party on may 3rd
Pretend tea party with Jasmine
Sippy cup for Jasmine 9am
Jasmine had an accident at 9:15am, change her clothes
fold load of laundry at 9:20am
Put away dishes from the dishwasher
Change battering from swing, vibrating chair, and baby bed
Make bed upstairs
Sippy cup and some gummies for Jasmine 10am
Alexander awake at 10:35am
Bottle of formula for Alexander 10:40am
String cheese and another sippy cup for Jasmine 11am
Lunch for Jasmine and I 11:30am - Salad with corn, turkey, croutons, shredded cheese and bacon bits, tomato and romano basic vinegarrette.
12:10pm Jasmine and Alex take a nap!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm exhausted!

Back from FL!

2008-04-14T11:01:00.000-07:00

To see the pics from our vacation visit:

http://www.triptoflapril2008.blogspot.com

Sneak peaks of the Season Finale of The L Word!

2008-03-20T13:31:00.000-07:00

Planning meals for my family!

2008-03-19T15:31:00.000-07:00

Recipe for Today!!!

Chicken-Almond Stir-Fry!

Prep Time:6 min Cook: 10 min

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons sesame oil
4 skinned and boned chicken breast halves, cut into thin strips
1 (2.25 oz) pkg sliced almonds
1 (16 oz) pkg frozen broccoli, carrots, and water chestnuts
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup pineapple juice
Hot Cooked Rice

Pour oil around top of a preheated wok, coating sides.

Heat briefly at medium-high. Add chicken and almonds; stir-fry 2 minutes. Add frozen vegetables; cover and cook 4 minutes, stirring once.

Combine cornstarch and next 4 ingredients; add to wok. Cook, stirring constantly, 2 to 3 minutes or until mixture thickens. Serve over rice.

Makes 4 servings.

Planning meals for my family!

2008-03-12T23:11:00.000-07:00

Dinner for today:

Warm Potato and Sausage Salad:

Prep Time:10 Minutes Cook: 20 minutes

Ingredients:
3 lbs red potatoes
1 lb kielbasa sausage, slice3d
4 green onions, sliced
1/2 cup dill pickle relish
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup white wine vinegar or white vinegar
1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon or 1 teaspoon of dried tarragon
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cloves garlic, minced

Cook potatoes in boiling water to cover in a Dutch over to 10 to 15 minutes or until tender; drain and let cool to touch.

Meanwhile, cook sausage in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat 4 minutes or until browned. Drain and set aside.

Slice potatoes. Combine potato slices, green onions, pickle relish, and parsley in a large bowl; stir in sausage.

Combine oil and remaining 6 ingredients in a 2 cup glass measuring cup. Microwave at HIGH 1 1/2 minutes or until mixture comes to a boil. Pour hot dressing over potato mixture; toss to coat.

Makes 6 servings...

Planning meals for my family!

2008-03-10T23:11:00.000-07:00

Dinner for tonight!

Creamy Chicken Casserole:

Prep: 5 minutes Cook: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

3 cups chopped cooked chicken
1 (10 3/4 ounce) can cream of chicken soup, undiluted
1 (8 ounce) carton sour cream
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
1 1/2 cups crushed round buttery crackers (40 crackers)
1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted

Combine first 4 incredients; spoon into a lightly greased 11 x 7 x 1 1/2 inch baking dish. Combine crushed crackers and butter, and sprinkle over chicken mixture. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Serve with lettuce and tomato.

Makes 4 servings.

Planning meals for my family!

2008-03-08T23:11:00.000-08:00

Dinner for tonight!

Weeknight Enchiladas:

Prep: 7 minutes Cook:29 minutes

1 lb ground chuck
1 small onion, chopped
1 (10 3/4 ounce) can tomato soup, undiluted
1 (10 ounce) can mild enchilada sauce
8 (7 or 8 inch) flour tortillas
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
Sour cream (optional)
Sliced ripe olives (optional)

Cook beef and onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat until meat is browned, stirring until it crumbles; drain and return to skillet.

Stir soup and enchilada sauce into meat mixture. Spread 1/4 cup meat mixture onto each tortilla; sprinkle tortillas evenly with 1 cup cheese. Roll up tortillas; place, seam side down, in a greased 13 x 9 x 2 inch baking dish. Pour remaining meat mixture over tortillas.

Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Uncover and sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheese; bake 5 more minutes or until cheese melts. Serve with sour cream and olives, if desired.

Makes 4 servings.

For dessert:

Toffee Surprise:

Prep time: 9 minutes

1 qt vanilla ice cream
4 (1 1/4 ounce) English toffee - flavored candy bars, coarsely crushed
1/4 cup Kahlua or other coffee - flavored liqueur

Spoon ice cream and crushed toffee bars evenly into four parfait glasses or dessert dishes. Just before serving, top each with 1 tablespoon Kahlua.

Makes 4 servings.

Potty training a child is not an easy task to take on!

2008-02-21T15:15:00.000-08:00

Three days ago, I decided to OFFICIALLY start potty training Jasmine!

It has not been easy, and I think its safe to say I have made absolutely no progress! At this very moment, she is walking around naked, and crying, because she was sitting on her high chair and had an accident. I can't be mad, but she is beside herself...and now, I can't get her to put her pants back on!!! Thankfully, Alex is taking a good nap, and I am able to ignore Jasmine until she's done having a conniption.

2:47PM Back to sitting on the potty! We'll see what happens!

I just finished having some early dinner, or late lunch maybe. I made Chicken Stew with White Rice. No chance of Steven coming home early today since he came home early yesterday. We filed our taxes yesterday, finally...very happy with our return, although we won't enjoy any of it. Student loans need to be paid off, etc...

2:58PM Nothing yet. I'm almost certain I'll be cleaning the floor very soon.

2:59PM I just finished cleaning the floor. I didn't even finish the previous sentence and I heard a stream behind me. She is still recovering from yet another conniption. I don't think she understands why there's liquid coming out of her. Maybe I should lign the entire house with newspapers, like when you're training a puppy!

3:02PM Jasmine just went to check out the place she soiled. She is amazed that there's nothing there. She must wonder if it was all a figment of her imagination.

3:14PM Nothing yet!

3:33PM I noticed Jasmine went pee pee on her princess chair!

3:57PM I think it's time to put a diaper on!!!

Happy Pre-Valentine's Day Day!

2008-02-13T18:55:00.000-08:00

Today, Jasmine has her Valentine's Day party at her Child care! She was in a super good mood today!

Here are the pictures:

When I went to pick her up, she was super excited to see me walk in. She had painted some Valentine's Day inspired art work, and had lots of treats to share with us. We can't let her eat all that candy!!!

My family just left!

2008-02-11T18:55:00.000-08:00

It's Monday, and my home is empty! Just yesterday, I had a full house, yet now, it's just my babies and I. My family coming over was the best thing ever!

Althought getting here was not so easy. This is what the day of their arrival looked like!

Jasmine 2 3 2008!

2008-02-03T18:55:00.000-08:00

House for Sale 250K

2008-01-02T11:24:00.004-08:00

This is my mother's house in Puerto Rico. It's in San Sebastian, PR... Anyone interested!

My lovely mother!

2008-01-02T11:24:00.003-08:00

Her 2007 Volleyball Team:

This is the link to her myspace page:

These pictures of Jose were taken on July 11, 2007! That was his shirt from when he was little!!!

2008-01-02T11:24:00.002-08:00

These pictures of Jose were taken on May 26 2007! Those dogs love him!!!

2008-01-02T11:24:00.001-08:00

1 2 08

2008-01-02T11:24:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!!

What a night! Alex woke up at 3AM and never fully went back to sleep! Jasmine woke up and it was time to start the day! One healthy egg white breakfast later and we were on our way to start the day. The plumbers arrived at around 10am and started working on the leak that never ends. LOL! Same two guys as last time! He apologized for not searching for the leak the first time around, which only tells me that he’s not gonna charge anything for the second visit. Right? Not the case! They charged me $125.00 minus my $25 coupon; it ended up being $100. But that was not the end of our story. As they left, Steven texted me and asked if they fixed the plastic pipe he nailed AGAIN by MISTAKE! I had to call the company and they drove back. We voided the first invoice and started a new one. Just fifty dollars more, thankfully!

Yesterday, because Steven was off, we went to Walmart to buy a couple of things but ended up buying a LOT more than expected. Christmas stuff was 75% off. You just can’t say no to that! LOL! We also finally got Jasmine a new DVD player for her playroom. She destroyed the other one pushing buttons all the time. Turns out that the DVD player she broke was from when that technology first came out and it had cost like $400.00. That’s really funny because we paid $27.00 for the one we bought yesterday. Same thing is going to happen to Blue Ray Disc DVD players. It’s a miracle that the actual DVDs themselves have not gone down in price. They sometimes cost as much as the actual DVD players!

I think my poor Alex is sick! He sounds really muffled when he cries. I will keep an eye on him today and take him to the pediatrician tomorrow since I have to go see my midwife at 2pm anyway. I sure hope he’s OK.

Mom flew back from Puerto Rico today. She didn’t have such a great time, which makes me glad we chose not to go! Alex was too small anyway…

We spent New Year’s Eve at Margaret’s new house. Second holiday there! Thanksgiving was there also. It was fun! I spent the entire night playing cards. I finally learned how to play canasta (basket LOL). Great game!!!

I had to put Jasmine down for a nap one hour and twenty minutes early today because she was extremely irritable. Temper temper!!! Thank God for naps! Of course, the moment she laid down for a nap, Alex woke up from his! It’s like a cruel joke someone’s playing on me, except there are no hidden cameras!!!

“Night Night” is one of Jasmine’s new words, as well as “libro,” “cereal” accompanied by sign language for cereal, it’s amazing to see; “pinta” which means paint in Spanish, “jugo” which means juice, “socks,” “bobo” which means pacifier in Spanish, “pasas” which means raisins in Spanish, “papas” which means french fries in Spanish, and “amo” which means I love you in Spanish…

Doing good for 19 months!!!

A few days back we thought Alex might be suffering from colic, but Steven changed his formula and he hasn’t been too bad! I love how hands on a father he is! My prediction is that Alex will have blue eyes and will look a LOT like Steven. He doesn’t look like anyone now, but he will!!!

I have so many pictures to post on my blog, that I’ll just start with this entry! We’ll see what flows after this!!!

12 28 07

2007-12-28T23:24:00.000-08:00

Today, the Comcast technician came to install the cable on our new 50” plasma. Turns out I’ve been paying for high def and it wasn’t even hooked up. I’m getting reimbursed $37 dollars. Big deal! Better than nothing! Jasmine really liked him.

Talking to Evelyn on Myspace IM. She was a bit upset cause his brother is staying with her. They are not having the greatest time. She was crying, but she quickly got over it. We spent about 2 hours via web cam. It’s fun when we get to do that. Yesterday, the Healthy families’ lady came by. We sat down at the kitchen and had coffee. She thought Alex was a fatty mcfatso. Jasmine has been so clingy lately. She is definitely jealous.

I’ve been working hard at taking down Christmas. I should be done today. Bianca had surgery yesterday (tonsillectomy), but she came out just fine. Ice cream for breakfast, lunch, and dinner! Where do I sign up?

Jasmine has been taking her naps lately at one thirty in the afternoon. It is certainly hard for me to wait so long to put her to bed, but if I don’t, she’ll stay awake, crying for me from her crib. I made an appointment for my ten year old dog, Vicky, at the vet’s office. Her K9s are abscessed. Poor girl!

December 27, 2007

2007-12-27T23:04:00.000-08:00

Healthy Families lady came by today to see how Alexander is doing. Instead of askime me questions of Alexander, the lady sat down, I offered coffee, and she complemented me on my home and my beautiful children. What an easy job she has!

Jasmine bas been so clingy. It's hard to work around the house with putting away laundry and trying to take down Christmas decoration with her crying behind me to pick her up.

Bianca came out of surgery just fine today from a tonsillectomy. Poor baby! I've been attempting to clean, like always, but it got easier once Jasmine went down for a nap at 1:30pm.

Yesterday, I made an appointment for Vicky's teeth. Her poor K9's have abscessed.

Today, I ordered a Personalized Gerber Keepsake Spoon for Alexander. Just normal mommy stuff today!

Christmas Card Sending Season is officially over!

2007-12-26T15:13:00.000-08:00

Let's see who made the list this year!!!

Christmas Christmas Christmas!!!

2007-12-25T23:24:00.000-08:00

Today is Christmas Day! Jasmine woke up at 7:20AM. Steven and I were so tired. But Santa came to our house! We got up and Steven got the camera ready to document our first, whole family, Christmas, in our new home! It truly was beautiful.

We had presents EVERYWHERE. Christmas is…AWESOOOOMEEEE!!!

We spent the rest of the day, lounging around the house…doing absolutely nothing. We watched Jasmine play, and we kept the fire going all day long. Steven was on call, but he didn’t get called in! Merry Christmas!!!

Here's the remix!

Another video that had to be uploaded through another website cause it was too large is through this link:

12/24/07

2007-12-24T23:24:00.000-08:00

Good day today…Super cold though! Lake effect snow and the wind chill factor made it feel like zero degrees. We went to Walmart and to Kohl’s. Finally finished our Christmas shopping! The Bears beat the Packers today! Too bad they’re not going to the playoffs.

This last Wednesday I went to Alexander’s first month’s doctor’s visit. On my way there I called Francisco who was in the Plaza Las America’s parking lot fighting with the other drivers cause they were driving against traffic. Turns out he was the one driving the wrong way. I told him I opened the Christmas present he sent me early. He said that the present he sent was from Afghanistan. I already knew that, but he also told me that the jewelry he sent me was real sapphire. I also called Emilse that day, who I invited to come to our house this week. She apparently decided against it. Picked up an extra shift!

On Wednesday, we also decided to go to the mall and take the kids to take pictures with Santa Clause. It was funny because Jasmine was all about Santa until it came time to sit in his lap. She was insane. We tried as hard as we could to take the picture as fast as possible. The pictures came out as good as they were going to. Steven’s hand is in the shot. You can see the huge scratches that Claire gave him the night before when he tried to get him out of Jasmine’s room. That day, we decided the cat had to go.

Also on Wednesday, Steven gave me my Christmas present early. He gave me a beautiful, super portable, blue 8.3mp Fujifilm Digital Camera. I love him so much. I felt a little bad cause I’d been giving him a hard time about some missing receipts. Since I’ve been keeping track of our finances, I’m like the receipt Nazi. He finally handed me the receipt I’d been nagging him about. It contained the digital camera which is why he was hiding it.

Alex is one month old and I’m trying to diet. Maybe I should just consider getting a tummy tuck and get it over with. Steven asks me if beauty and vanity is worth my life.

I saw In Pursuit of Happiness with Will Smith yesterday. Steven and I were so affected by it because of the whole father-son thing. He was such a good daddy. I cried, and I know Steven wanted to cry also, but all he kept saying was… “I don’t know why, but this movie is killing me. It’s different when you have kids.” The poor guy was so broke in that movie. Steven also kept remembering how he was so stressed about money when he was about to start school. The prospect of not working for two and a half years made him sick. I’m sure getting divorced and being threatened to be ruined financially didn’t help much with his anxiety levels. “Being broke sucks,” he said.

I’ve been talking to Evelyn a lot. She’s 28 weeks pregnant now. By the way, Alex weighed 9 lbs and his length is 21.5 inches now. The doctor gave me some drops cause he has blocked tear ducts. That’s ok, men don’t cry… LOL!

Picture day with Santa Claus!

2007-12-20T18:55:00.000-08:00

Another year, another Santa! Last year's Santa Clause was much prettier. But, they can't all be winners!

Today was Alexander's first month doctor's appointment. On my way there, I called Francisco who was in the Plaza Las Americas parking lot, fighting with other drivers. He then realized, while on the phone with me, that he was the one drivingt the wrong way. Too funny. He told me that the Christmas present he sent me was from Afghanistan. I already knew that, but he told me the earrings he sent for me were real saphire and emerald. Wow, THAT I didn't know!

My friend Emilse went to work today even though I had told her that I was gonna come over. Thank God Steven and I had decided not to go anyway. Instead we went to the mall to take Santa Pics...

Steven gave me my Christmas present early. This morning he gave me a beautiful, super portable, blue 8.3 MP Fujifilm Digital Camera. I love him. I felt a little bad cause I'd been giving him a hard time about some missing receipts. Since I've been keeping track of our finances, I'm like the receipt nazi. He finally handed me the receipt I'd been nagging him about. It contained the digital camera which is why he was hiding it.

Pay day tomorrow Wooo Hooo!

Alex is one month old and I'm already dieting. I want a tummy tuck so bad. Steven asked me if beauty is worth my life. At this point, i'd have to say yes.

Last night, we watched the movie 'In Pursuit of Happiness.' Steven and I were so affected by it because of the whole father-son thing. He was such a good daddy. I cried, and I know Steven wanted to cry also, but all he kept saying was..."I don't know why but this movie is killing me. It's diffrent when you have kids."

Steven also mentioned how he was totally stressing about money when he was about to start school. The prospect of not working for two and a half years made him sick. I'm sure getting divorced and being threatened to be ruined financially didn't help much with his anxiety either. "Being broke sucks" he said.

I've been talking to Evelyn a lot. She's 28 weeks pregnant now.

Alex weighed 9 lbs and is now 21 1/2 inches. He got a prescription for a blocked tear duct.

My son Alexander's room!

2007-12-16T11:24:00.000-08:00

Winter Storm 12 4 07

2007-12-04T15:13:00.000-08:00

New remix video my friend Evelyn made of her family! It's a beauty!

2007-12-03T12:26:00.000-08:00

Everyone leaves tomorrow!

2007-12-01T23:13:00.000-08:00

After a wonderful vacation, my dear abuela, mami, and Jose, are going back to Florida. Today, I gave abuela the present I had for her birthday, even though her birthday is not til the 11th, since I can't give it to her that day.

I will miss abuela, but not as much as Jasmine will miss her. Those two have been like peas and carrots!

11 29 07

2007-11-29T23:24:00.000-08:00

Time for bathy bathy!

I don't want to!!!!!!!!!

Why do you do this to me?

OK, I guess its not so bad!

Nana and Alex!

Babyshower at Margaret's house!

2007-11-28T23:24:00.000-08:00

Funny story! We were invited down to Margaret's house to have dinner. I initially didn't feel up to it, plus then Steven had to stay later than expected, and I was leaning towards not going at all. We walked into Margaret's house one and a half hour later than supposed to, and everyone yells "surprise." I have no idea what they are talking about, so I smile. Thirty seconds later, Margaret comes out of her room, and says "surprise." I look at her, then look around, and see blue bags, and presents all around. Then I ask: "Is this really a babyshower for me?" It sounded so stupid as it came out of my mouth. I felt so rude. I saw Angie's face, when I walked in. It said, you ungrateful bit$#. Now i know why she looked at me like that. She thought I didn't give a crap about the babyshower. But I had no idea. I am a blond.

Here's the pics:

Notice how the weight is wrong on the cake!

We got all dressed up, took Christmas card pictures. Only one will be chosen!

2007-11-28T11:24:00.000-08:00

This is the one we picked:

Generations:

Later that day, we decided to go to one of Arielle's games, but there was an ice storm in effect so we had to turn around. We stopped at The Country Kitchen in Hebron, and I regreted it the next day. Note to self: do not order spagetti and meatballs at a country restaurant ( they are not italian ).

11 27 07

2007-11-27T23:24:00.000-08:00

Dinner at House of Kobe!

2007-11-26T23:24:00.000-08:00

November 25, 2007!

2007-11-25T11:24:00.000-08:00

Putting up Xmas!

The day after Alex came home!

2007-11-22T11:24:00.000-08:00

11 22 07
Its Thanksgiving day. We were let out of the hospital early because today is a holiday. We went to Margaret's house in the afternoon, and everyone was loving on Alex. I don't blame them. He's so delicious. The morning was very slow, everyone just kind of gathered around the kitchen drinking pot after pot of coffee. You know us puertorricans. Can't live without that cafe!!!

So many toys to play with, and she chooses the cardboard box!

Vroom Vroom!

Such a good big sister already!!!

Jasmine 11 21 07!

2007-11-21T23:24:00.001-08:00

Our son is one day old! 11 21 07

2007-11-21T23:24:00.000-08:00

One day old!!!

And baby makes four!!!

2007-11-20T17:00:00.000-08:00

I'm having a baby!!!

Baby is finally here!!! 6 lbs 11 oz. 21 inches long!!!

Remix of when my son Alex was born!!! Nov 20, 2007!

2007-11-20T11:24:00.000-08:00

Soon, I will post the whole story!

Pictures of Mom, Jose, and Abuela's first day on vacation to my home in Valpo!

2007-11-19T23:24:00.000-08:00

November 19th, 2007!!! The last day I was ever pregnant!

We went to pick them up at the airport and everyone was so happy to be here!
We really had a great time! Getting ready for the big induction the next day, we just chilled all night and Jasmine was all over the place. It was like she never skipped a beat. She was calling Nana, and giving everyone kisses.

Abuela and Jasmine were like peas and carrots!

And we roasted marshmellows in our fireplace! Ghetto! LOL!!!

My friend Evelyn created this slideshow of her family!

2007-11-15T11:10:00.000-08:00

Junito home on leave from Iraq!

2007-11-06T13:05:00.000-08:00

It's been quite a week! My brother Junito is finally home from Iraq! He arrived on the 1st of November. I am dying because I can't be there, but I'm glad the airlines have the rules that they have. I have been having contractions all week. I went to a doctor's appointment today and she said that I am good to go for an induction on the 20th. I guess the contractions have been doing their job preparing my body for labor. She said I could go anytime now! I'm ready! Titi Diana went to Florida to visit Junito, as well as Abuelita! Titi Diana is back home now though and she sent me these pictures!

My Titi Diana likes to act like she's a prude but she's a free spirit at heart. She likes to travel, and can preety much do anything she sets her mind to. This month she is going to Jerusalem! Isn't that crazy? I admire her.

She'll be visiting me the day after Thanksgiving she said! Now I know FOR SURE that the baby will be home by then! Lucky me!!!

Now these pictures were from my mom's camera!!!

Here's junito checking out the scrapbook mom's been making of him!

His dog Rocko sure has missed him!

And this is his new tatoo. Jesus Christ!

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T23:35:00.000-07:00

Here's a slideshow with pictures my friends and family sent me from their children, and themselves!

Halloween Night October 31, 2007!

2007-10-31T18:24:00.000-07:00

Jasmine at her 1st Pumpkin Party!

2007-10-30T15:05:00.000-07:00

My Sunday!

2007-10-28T13:07:00.000-07:00

Today, Steven is golfing! How white of him!!!

He sent me these pictures from the golf course through his cell phone.

I woke up, and he was already gone. It is 1:01PM right now, and Jasmine is ready to wake up from her nap. Sure doesn't feel like a Sunday. Dad called me today. He was on his way to work. Abuelita is in Florida visiting him. Junito is coming this next week and even Titi Diana is flying down to see him. I wish I could go see him too. I am too pregnant to fly. The Bears are on right now. Detroit is winning 3 to 0. My morning has been long and boring. I have heartburn, but what else is new! I made 'pastelillos' from scratch. Got the recipe to make the dough from www.ricanrecipes.com It's the best website for recipes from PR I've ever found. I made three of them and have regretted it ever since. Fried foods and pregnancy don't mix. I couldn't help myself. Dad told me that Titi Sylvia and Tio Junior are moving this weekend and that they are selling all their furniture. I would call them but I know that we won't make it to Plainfield, IL by today. Not with my husband out golfing. Yesterday, after Jasmine's pumpkin party, we talked about how long this golfing outing would last. I certainly didn't think it would feel like a weekday, where Steven is at work, and I'm at home like the good little housewife.

Oops, Jasmine is awake. She probably felt my rage and wants to comfort me. Oh no, wait, it's a poopy diaper... Fun!!!

Elsita sent me this picture of my niece Adriana! She's getting so big!

2007-10-28T11:31:00.000-07:00

Jasmine trying out her new big girl bed!

2007-10-24T23:59:00.000-07:00

Today, Wilma invited Jasmine and I to lunch. She came over to drop something off, and we left from my house. It was almost time for Jasmine's nap, but I didn't want to turn down an invitation. Jasmine ate a big lunch and on our way back, she fell asleep. A five minute nap in the car can ruin a two hour nap that's considered ME time. I love it when she takes a nap, but I called my friend Evelyn as I was approaching my house, then I looked back, and she was out. I carried her upstairs and decided to put her down in her big girl bed, just to see what her reaction would be when she woke up.

I carefully took off her boots and unzipped her coat (it was cold and windy) and she didn't even move. She was so tired. Not tired enough to sleep the scheduled two hours I was hoping for.

She woke up crying like a crazy woman, I gave her another bottle and put her in her crib. She stayed there for another hour but never did fall back asleep. Of course, by 7pm, she was extremely grumpy, and Steven was not here to offer relief from parenting duties. He was on call, and got called back into work about an hour and a half after he got home. He was very upset and didn't get home until about 8pm. I had a hard time falling asleep. The movie Sixteen Candles kept me awake til midnight. The gigantic human being living inside me didn't help much either.

The best puertorrican recipe website I've seen to date:

2007-10-23T15:31:00.002-07:00

http://www.ricanrecipes.com/

Puertorrican Sancocho Recipe! I can't wait to make this!

2007-10-23T15:31:00.001-07:00

Junito recently got promoted in Iraq!

2007-10-23T15:31:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to my brother Victor on being promoted while in Iraq! We miss you greatly!!! I love you...Come home soon!

October 22, 2007!

2007-10-22T20:31:00.000-07:00

Today, Steven had a day of fun planned out for me... I called Comcast so they could finally come and fix my internet. They came this morning and "fixed it." At least the laptop works. After that came Jasmine's nap, but after she woke up, then the day of fun began. I started by going to Home Depot to return the hose winder Steven bought Saturday (without a handle). Genious! Second stop: Circuit City, to return the audio and video cables we ended up not needing, thankfully. Whoever thought extension cables for your TV were so expensive? My third stop was Lowe's, where I had to return the weed eater Steven had purchased, also on Saturday. It stopped working about thirty minutes after he started using. Now that's quality equipment! I went into Lowe's and had to go back out because they won't take back equipment that had still had gas in it. I loaded it back in the car (easier said than done), drove to the end of the parking lot, and dumped it. Went back inside, and returned it. By now, Steven was trying to reach me. He had gotten out of work and wanted us to meet up before my fourth, and final stop.

We met in front of Pier 1 Imports. Figured I'd do some window shopping while I waited. I took this picture of Jasmine as Steven was parking next to me.

We went to Menards, you guessed it, to return another piece of crappy equipment. The chainsaw Steven bought, and had used a total of two times, broke. We caught some serious 'tude' from the lady at the return counter. She must've been having a really crappy day. We went and grabbed another chain saw (same brand - very smart of us), and also paid for the Notre Dame Mat that I'd been looking for. Now the baby's room is one step closer to being complete. I just need the glider with ottoman, the notre dame crib sheet that is impossible to find, and a notre dame lamp. The double stroller is also another thing I need to buy, but I can't decide which one! There's so many of them, and the price range is incredible! You'd think they're selling a baby too!

After Menards, we went to find a place to eat. We decided on UNO Chicago Bar & Grill. Steven and I had never eaten there before. I had some Shrimp Scampi Pasta, and Steven had a personal pizza. The food was great. Jasmine really enjoyed the pasta. She was eating so fast that she gagged a couple of times. She likes to scare mommy and daddy like that!!!

The bad part about meeting Steven in Merrilville is the drive back. We had to drive separately. Funny thing is that the moment we got in each other's cars, I called mom, and he called Jose. Mom and Jose were having dinner at Applebee's. It was funny that they were sitting together, one with me on the phone, the other with Steven on the phone. Conversations that were totally unplanned. Great minds think alike!

My friend Evelyn!

2007-10-20T11:39:00.000-07:00

Evelyn sent me some new pictures of her pregnancy, along with pictures of her family! She's having a girl!!!!!!!!!!!

Friday 10/19/07

2007-10-19T15:31:00.000-07:00

Finally, I get internet today. Cable too. I can’t wait. I have an extensive list of shows I want to enter into my DVR at once: Ugly Betty, Heroes, America’s Next Top Model, Blue’s Clues, Brothers & Sisters, Entourage, Dexter, Desperate Housewives, Big Love, Grey’s Anatomy, Gossip Girl, Samantha Who?, Nip/Tuck, and Dirty Sexy Money. As the seasons come, I keep picking up more and more shows. Pretty soon, I’m not going to have any need for regular TV whatsoever, thanks to my handy dandy DVR. I love that thing. There are about ten cable hookups around this house, at $18 bucks a pop, you do the math.

I have Lizzie, Margaret’s daughter, our niece, upstairs right now watching Jumanji. Margaret dropped her off at a halfway point yesterday. Steven picked her up from there. She is so bored right now because there is no cable. I can’t say I didn’t warn her!

My friend Evelyn told me yesterday that she is having a girl. She is about 4 months pregnant now. Now we will both have the pair. It’s very strange that we would both end up pregnant at the same time. When we were growing up, we always talked about it like we were going to be together forever. How naïve of us! Now, we’re lucky if we see each other once every three years. No joke! She was upset with me because I didn’t pick up the phone on Monday. I could’ve strangled her when I read her text message accusing me of ignoring her. I actually called her about 10 or 15 times for the last three months and it was impossible to reach her. She was voluntarily ‘incommunicado’ from the world because the pregnancy was kicking her behind. Now she’s feeling better and accusing ME of ignoring HER. Please, someone restrain me before I go to Georgia (imagine two pregnant women kicking each other’s butts.) That would be a sight! All joking aside, I am so happy for her. I am now 35 weeks pregnant. In five weeks, I will have a nice ball of baby boy to carry around with me for eternity. Or at least until he’s old enough to walk, since it’s been my experience with Jasmine that once they learn to walk, they want nothing to do with you.

Junito also called from Iraq on Monday. I could’ve thrown my phone against the wall when I listened to his voice mail yesterday. It took me all those days to realize I had two voice mails. I was so upset. He’s doing well he says. Mom can’t wait for him to come home on the 30^th. He’s leaving Florida again on the 18^th of November, which is great for mom because she’s flying here on the 19^th in hopes of my baby being born early. I asked my midwife if there was a chance I could be induced one week early and she said that is my cervix was soft then there wouldn’t be a problem. How in the world do you soften your cervix? I’m going to have to research that one, because I MUST be induced early! If my mom leaves and this baby is not born yet, I will sue the hospital! I wish! Francisco called me from Afghanistan yesterday. I was about to park at Babies R’ us when he called. We talked for a good while. He can’t wait to come home. He misses his family so much. They are planning on having a second child as soon as he arrives. Elsita has been off birth control since the moment he left. Her body is ready! First week of November was the return date given to him but he doesn’t believe that they will stick to it. They’ve already changed it so many times. He was upset because he was going to miss the Jennifer Lopez/Marc Anthony concert in Las Vegas on October 26. They were in Chicago this past weekend and I heard the arena was not even sold out. She is very pregnant right now! I caught a glimpse of her belly on a celebrity gossip magazine while waiting at the Walmart checkout counter two days ago.

Lately, Walmart and Home Depot have been like our second homes. Just when I thought we had soooo much stuff, we go and buy this huge house. It’s like our stuff disappeared. We’ve had to buy so many things. Our bank account is like a roller coaster right now. Up and Down like crazy! I have been working on my family’s finances very dutifully ever since I developed the perfect financial software. Microsoft Excel Rocks! I was very upset when I had to take the class at Lake Sumter Community College to fulfill my computer requirement, but now, I’m actually glad I did it. If I continue to do this throughout my lifetime, my family and I will always be on top of it all. No surprises! When it comes to money, surprises are rarely good news; unless you get an awesome tax refund! If anybody reading this is interested in a blank version of my financial software, let me know!

Angie and Margaret’s homes are coming along very nicely. Talk about second homes, they are always in Menards buying stuff! I don’t envy them. I am so glad that we decided not to build. I would’ve been going crazy right about now! Once the homes are finished, I will post pictures! Angie is very pregnant right now, as well as Nicole. I can’t wait to know what they are having, although Angie wants to be surprised! How old fashioned of her. I admire her patience.

A secret revealed; our baby boy’s name will be: Alexander Steven Burkett. I love it. It was originally going to be something else, but I’m glad we waited until the last minute to pick it. I think it’s perfect. I am almost done with the nursery. Pictures will be posted soon. Everything in our new home is a working progress, but we decided that it was necessary for Jasmine and Alex’ rooms to be done first. Jasmine’s room is a princess fairy tale dream come true. Again, pictures will be posted soon. Patience my friends! Remember, I just got internet today! Alexander’s room is Notre Dame themed with a big of Chicago Bears added to it. I displayed Steven’s old high school football helmet on a shelf along with some footballs he owned. Yesterday, I bought an NFL Chicago Bears Mobile. Steven loved it, but he begged me to stop buying things for the baby since everyone keeps asking what to buy me and if I keep buying everything, there’ll be nothing left to buy but diapers! By the way, I already bought a jumbo pack of that as well, but you can never have enough diapers! Never!

I have lots of web surfing before I can even start concentrating on the hundreds of pictures I have accumulated in the past month that are now sitting in My Pictures folder ready to be posted on my blogs. I can’t forget about my guilty pleasure; celebrity gossip. Wonder what Britney’s up to today? Drugs? Hit and runs? Or maybe some good old fashioned crotch flashing! Ah, I can always count on her to make what I sometimes think is an interesting, stimulating life, to seem like a boring, never ending slump.

Two days ago, we met a couple of our neighbors. We were attempting to rake leaves in the front yard, and I say attempting because it looks like ten years of leaves were piled up in there to prevent any grass from EVER growing there, and a man who lives directly in front of us, whose name I already forgot, walked over with his dog and introduced himself. He welcomed us to the neighborhood, chitchatted a bit and left. About ten minutes later, two men walked over. There is a home being built directly to our left. We heard from the previous owners that a couple with two children would be moving there. One of the men was the owner of the home being built, and the other, is the neighbor whose home is invisible from road on the other cul-de-sac but according to my calculations, with the help of Google Earth maps, it’s a humongous home. Steven already planted the seed though. As they were walking away from another round of chitchat, Steven hollered: “Block Party at your house on Christmas.” He just laughed. He’s kind of hoping for his home to be finished before then, but he doubts it. He also mentioned that we must get our kids together on play dates. Finally, somebody for Jasmine to play with! Again, all these people in a matter of minutes, and I can’t remember not even one of their names. It will take time! Steven mentioned that it was funny how these people just walk over and introduce themselves, and he lived in a neighborhood in Ocala, FL for years, and never even met one of his neighbors! That’s the country for ya!

All week, after Steven comes home from work, we’ve been working on the front yard. I’ve seen about a dozen spiders that I think if I continue to live here, I might just lose my fear of them! I thought spiders were a Florida and Puerto Rico thing. I was soooo wrong! That’s what I get for wanting a house on 4 acres of wooded land! Clearing these leaves has been quite the job, but we’ve been burning them on the front yard and they keep disappearing slowly! The piles smolder all night long, even though it’s been a very wet week. Today, there was a low of 49. Next Thursday, our trusted WGN meteorologist, Tom Schilling, says the low will be 39. Looks like winter is making its appearance early; but wait…not so fast; this weekend it’s gonna be 80 degrees. So, not so much!

Jasmine’s nap times have really changed a lot this past month. Must be all the changes going on around her. She abruptly went from two naps a day to only one. According to the parenting magazines, this is completely normal. Just when I was starting to love that she finally sleeps the whole night without interruptions, she goes and pulls this stunt! Today though, she must be feeling a bit ill. I had started putting her down for her nap at around 1pm everyday. Today, she woke up with a runny nose and started rubbing her eyes, letting me know that she was tired by 11am. It was strange, but I know how to read her like a book. That’s how you know you’re a mommy. By 11:30am, she was asleep. She went down without a fight. She’d started this thing, that after I put her down for a nap, it takes her like an hour to fall asleep. I can hear her talking to herself through the monitor. I keep one monitor downstairs in the kitchen and the other one upstairs in my bedroom. Not today! Today, the monitors were silent, and I liked it! She took a three hour nap, which is unheard of. As soon as she woke up I medicated her. She is so congested, and her nose is so runny. Her mouth is permanently open because it’s easier for her to breathe that way. It breaks my heart to see her like this. I woke up a bit ill today also, but as the day wore on, I felt better. I wish I could say the same for her.

Mami started her volleyball games this week. She’s already won two games. Her visit last week made me realize how lonely I’ve been since I left Florida. I miss my small, but interesting circle of friends. I miss that stupid town called Leesburg. I miss abuela, and yes, even Jose. I miss my job a lot, but most of all…I miss my mami. She was surprised to see how sweet Jasmine is, how she communicates and lets her feelings be known. Jasmine’s vocabulary has extended quite a bit! She says up, down, please “peez,” mami, nana, Vicky “titi,” leche (milk) “tete,” daddy, Hello (while pretending to talk on the phone) Salsa (our cat) “talta,” yummy yummy, fruta, poop, agua (water), hi, bye bye, blue’s clues (no words, just syllable sounds), thank you, no no no (while scolding whatever piece of matter she got hurt with at the moment), mas (more), vroom vroom (when she wants daddy to give her a ride on the John Deere, or when she is playing with something that rolls), on, off, hot, nene (boy) (while pointing at children, either in person, on magazine pages, or on TV), trees (while waving her hand up in the sky in our front yard), wow, open, close it, luz (light), blanket “bobi,” all done “ah dah” (when done eating, drinking, or simply done with whatever activity had amazed her for an entire second and a half), kick kick kick (while on the tub splashing water) , ball, go go go (while watching her cousin Arielle’s volleyball games, good boy “a bobobo” (while petting Salsa or Vicky), uh oh, apple, ears, eyes, eyebrows (abbah), diaper, bellybutton (bobo), mmmmmmmm (when something tastes good)…and I’m sure I’m leaving some words out. Also, she understands most commands, like “sientate” (sit), stand up, go night night, “quieres jugo?” (do you want juice?), but the same goes for “do you want _____?)fill in the blank, put it back, where’s your _____? fill in the blank, throw it, let’s go take a bathy bathy, time for nappy nappy, kick it, come yummy yummy, baila, did you poop?, clean your nose, pipi, give it to me, give it to daddy, zapatos (shoes), toma (take it), throw it, give kisses, give hugs, say bye bye, say hi… She understands most everything, and if she doesn’t, then she looks at you with a blank stare, like what??? Her tantrums consist mostly of throwing herself on the floor while turning red and tears flow down, or, just facing a wall and completely ignoring you until you go away. Being a mommy is awesome. I hope I can repeat this amazing miracle with Alex, short for Alexander Steven, formerly known as Baby #2.

When I am done raising children, meaning, when they enter Preschool, I am soooo getting a job! I feel so useless. I tell Steven this, and he gets upset with me. He asks; “why do you feel useless when you are raising our children?” When he says that, I feel bad, because it’s true. But, I’ve always had a job. I used to be the one bringing home the bacon at some point in my life. How did I get here? When did I become a desperate housewife? What a cliché!

New pictures of Junito from Iraq on his Myspace!

2007-10-15T11:05:00.000-07:00

Steven got his new John Deere! He finally took it out for a spin!

2007-10-14T13:31:00.000-07:00

Check out Steven and Jasmine riding around in daddy's John Deere Riding Lawn Mower! She kept saying Vroom Vroom...

Hanging out at our new home October 7th!

2007-10-07T13:39:00.000-07:00

Steven was attempting to clean up the garage!

Jasmine was loving the leaves while I was outside spraypainting the changing table white so it can match the rest of the furniture in our baby boy's room!

My brother Jose, the party animal!

2007-10-06T11:05:00.000-07:00

I found these pictures on his Myspace! He's only 17!
Playing Vodka Pong!

here he is in Daytona on Spring Break!

you gotta love him!

Apple Picking at the Orchard!!!

2007-09-30T20:31:00.000-07:00

Today, out of all days, Jasmine and I have plans. I woke up this morning determined to find out whether or not these people were planning on moving out of OUR HOUSE anytime soon. We closed on Friday already! When we went there on Friday, it looked like they were almost done. How much stuff can they have? I called the lady myself, she said that her husband was planning on dropping off the keys at the real estate office in Valpo in a short while. I was happy and sad at the same time. Steven had mentioned that if they returned the keys, that he would not be joining Jasmine and I to the Apple Orchard, where I was to meet Angie and her bunch for an afternoon of apple picking. I was disappointed, but I understand that this is Steven's day off and he wants to get started with the move right away.

When he went to the house with the first truck full of stuff, the EX-OWNERS were still there. They returned the keys, but they were still there...and remained there...for a few more...HOURS! Steven skipped out on a family day of fun, just to sit around chit chatting with what I can honestly say, are weird, old, people. Is that rude to say? If it is, I'm sorry...but it's the truth. He waited and waited, while Jasmine and I were having fun.

Not too much fun though. Wes had to carry Jasmine most of the time because I am on modified bed rest after Thursday's episode with the contractions. It's gonna be very frustrating not being able to be of much use during the process of moving.

Steven helped throw away their trash and everything. He did anything to help speed up the process. When Angie's family and I left the orchard, we decided to go to the house because they hadn't seen it yet. Guess who else was there! Yes, you guessed it. The ex-owners were still there, and Steven had missed our family day! Frustrating!!!

Angie and her family left, and eventually (a couple of MORE hours later), so did the ex-owners; who before they left, reminded Steven of how opposed they were of anybody cutting down 'their trees.' What???? I believe that when we signed on the dotted line at the title company on Friday, that house officially became OURS. We can do whatever we want with OUR TREES...

Jasmine can't get enough of the big house. She loves the open spaces of the empty rooms. She runs around like a big girl. She really did enjoy picking apples too. I had to keep an eye on her though, she kept trying to pick apples from the floor (rotten apples). I guess it's easier than reaching up to grab it from the branches!!!

After doing as much as we could do in the new house, we went back home, where we had some more packing to do! We decided it would be easier to put Jasmine in a box, rather than carry her around. LOL!

Visit to Mike and Jenny's on Sept 29th, 2007!

2007-09-29T23:30:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I'd seen my old friends Mike and Jenny Hobson! We used to hang out together ALL THE TIME back when I lived in Chicago. Now it seemed as if Steven and I were out to go on a blind date with another married couple. Too funny! Everything turned out perfect though! We drove to downtown Chicago and spent about 15 minutes looking for parking. Just as we were about to give up though, a spot magically appeared. I almost killed Steven of a heart attack cause he was about to turn left when I saw a guy getting in his car straight ahead. I started screaming and he told me to calm down. I just kept on screaming, as if raising my squeaky voice would actually make the process go faster. I would have gotten out of the car and commited a felony if someone dared park at MY SPOT, because I SAW IT FIRST!!!

Finally parked, we walked over to their condominium. About 23 floors later we arrived. They'd just gotten home from house hunting and shopping at CostCo. Their summer had been filled with european vacations. Jealous! They spent a month in the Greek Islands, not to mention other places that I can't remember at the moment (I'm so jealous I can't even remember!). It's what happens when you have children, your vacations are kid friendly. I can't wait until we can find someone we can leave our children with while we take a weekend getaway. Keep dreaming Frances!

Jenny and Mike haven't changed one bit. I'll dig around and see if I can find some pictures of them back when I met them, and pictures of them now. They seem thinner and happier, while Steven and I are fatter and happier. Some people just handle happiness diffrently. LOL.

Mike was always the awesomest photographer. His pictures turned out better than ours, but I still haven't received them. I'll keep reminding Jenny!

After our trip to the roof terrace, we went downstairs to eat an amazing dinner prepared by Jenny! The conversation never died down, and Steven even opened up about not so pleasent topics that he doesn't usually share with just anyone, which was impressive. Jenny's questioning paid off :-). It made for interesting chit chat.

After dinner, we decided to take a stroll down to Michigan Avenue. Everyone in the world must've had the same idea we had, because you could barely walk. The Cheesecake Factory was packed. It was unbelievable, the people you see. So many diffrent cultures in one place. It was pretty amazing, and the weather was fabulous. We caught up on the past and basically got to know each other again. It was a great night!

Scary contractions!!!

2007-09-27T21:00:00.000-07:00

It's been quite a day for me! Started last night though! I couldn't sleep a wink because I kept having contractions throughout the night. Makes me feel bad for Steven who has to get up early to go to work. All I did was toss and turn, and complain. Steven was worried, and so was I. It's just too early to have a baby. If I was 36 weeks pregnant, I wouldn't be so worried. I woke up this morning, and the contractions continued. I called the doctor and they told me to come in and get monitored. Steven was more than pleased when I told him I was on my way to the hospital to get checked out. He'd been trying to convince me to do that very same thing since the night before. Stubborn me!

I got to the hospital and they immediately hooked me up to the machines. Steven made his way into the room I was in and eventually punched out officially so he could be with me, even though he was on call.

After about three hours, a cervical length ultrasound, and a pelvic exam, they decided to send me home! Pelvic Rest they said! Steven took this picture of me while I laid there being monitored!

Don't I look miserable? I was watching the Cubs lose that's why? I think the contractions must have something to do with the fact that we are closing on our home tomorrow. I think the anxiety is making me have contractions. I'll take a couple of Tylenol PMs tonight and sleep like a baby!

September 23, 2007!

2007-09-23T18:31:00.000-07:00

After a long long day yesterday at the Notre Dame game, it's time to relax. Our weekends are long and boring since there's nothing to do in our tiny apartment on Sundays except wait for the Bears to come one. Today, they played in the afternoon so we went to the park while we waited for the game to start. Jasmine had so much fun, and we had great fun just watching her play!

By the way, Rex Grossman, you suck!

Happy Birthday Adriana!

2007-09-22T23:39:00.000-07:00

My niece Adriana turned 3 years old !!!

September 22nd, 2007!

2007-09-22T22:31:00.000-07:00

What a day! Steven and I went to the Notre Dame vs. Michigan State game.

It was amazing. The weather was beautiful. Margaret came by the apartment this morning to pick up Jasmine. Arielle had a volleyball tournament in North Judson that lasted all day. As Margaret drove away, I had to wipe tears from my eyes. I am just not accustomed to being without her yet, and I knew that she was going to feel weird, at least for a bit. I got over it fairly quickly though. While on campus, I kept telling Steven to call his sister so we can check on our baby.

According to the pictures that Margaret later showed me of Jasmine at the volleyball tournament, I'd say she did OK!

She ended up having to take a nap on the bleachers!

The game was a disaster, but we did witness the first touchdown of the season! We decided to leave a couple of minutes before the game ended to avoid the massive traffic that was surely going to clog the streets of South Bend. We stopped at Burger King for some whoppers and met Margaret to pick up our baby, who'd obviously had some fun! She was so so tired! I was so happy to see her...

We gave her a bath, put on some PJ's and gave her a treat...her favorite...Blue's Clues Yogurt! Daddy couldn't resist taking video of it!

Today, I made a book of baby faces for Jasmine! She said 'nene' for the first time!

2007-09-19T11:45:00.000-07:00

Also notice, that she's wearing mommy's earrings! That should be considered child abuse, but she looks so cute. If she let me, I would even paint her nails!!!

Jasmine's 'bathy bathy' time! She loves it!

2007-09-18T22:39:00.000-07:00

Follow up appointment on October 18th, 2007!

2007-09-18T13:39:00.000-07:00

Jasmine couldn't resist the temptation of taking a nap before going to the Pediatrician's office!

Can't wait to move!!!

2007-09-17T17:39:00.000-07:00

Look at our pathetic progress!

and look how happy Steven is to be packing AGAIN!!!

I'm not much help!

Today, I woke up camera happy! All these videos and pictures in just one day! Enjoy the remix!!!

2007-09-16T13:39:00.000-07:00

30 weeks pregnant!

My crazy cat Claire!

2007-09-15T16:59:00.000-07:00

Jasmine playing with daddy!!!

2007-09-15T16:30:00.000-07:00

Steven is working hard! He's painting the bedroom set white for our new baby boy's room!

2007-09-15T14:39:00.000-07:00

A busy but uneventful day!

2007-09-14T16:05:00.000-07:00

Today consisted of Gymboree class for Jasmine, followed by lunch with daddy at the hospital! Good times! At least I got some cute pictures and videos!!!

Waiting for daddy to be available! Overall, we waited for about 2 hours...for a 30 minute lunch!

September 13 2007!

2007-09-13T23:05:00.000-07:00

Jasmine on September 11, 2007!

2007-09-11T13:46:00.000-07:00

My angel sleeping in her crib!

2007-09-10T12:05:00.000-07:00

There is a nature trail close to North Judson that Steven took me to go see!

2007-09-09T11:05:00.000-07:00

I had an ultrasound today! It's still a boy by the way!!!

2007-09-08T14:05:00.000-07:00

...after the ultrasound, we decided to stop by the PopCorn Festival in Valpo...

By the way...I can't wait to move into our new house!

Jasmine was feeling photogenic today!

2007-09-05T14:05:00.000-07:00

My dear Vicky is getting old!

2007-09-05T11:59:00.000-07:00