Rosado

The case of the mystery thong??

2012-01-29T17:20:00.000-08:00

The other day I'm getting dressed and I look into my underwear drawer and there is this lacy thong in there. At first, I don't think too much of it but then I get thinking it's not mine. I've never worn it or remember buying it.

So I go into the bathroom and ask Greg. "Did you bring this thong home?" "You did laundry and put this in my drawer." Is this your round-about way of saying you need more action or do you have a girlfriend on the side??

Greg told me he had no idea how it got there and assured me he wasn't having an affair. Then.. we remember my cousin Becca from Idaho came and stayed with us for Christmas.

Crisis averted!!

The mystery thong has an owner!

Let it snow!

2012-01-23T20:25:00.000-08:00

Sunday Morning we awoke to this. It snowed maybe 1 inch that day which was enough to close down church. I have to admit that's one thing I love about the Northwest. When it does snow the whole town slows down for some old fashion F*U*N!

The neighbor Emma and Liv built the first snow "woman" in the neighborhood!

We are so ghetto..G put Liv's garden gloves on with a Ziploc bag..Nice!

Cruzer is the only one with the REI snow-bunny suit.

He stayed in though and made his snowman out of wood.

G had to take my car into work one day due to snowy roads. Wow..you can't tell from the picture but every basket was overturned, toy pillaged! Liv totally ransacked the toy room.

I have to admit when the weather goes south the shopping gets good!! Nobody this last week was buying flannel at JoAnns. Baby Blankets here we come. BTW..I found a chinese print Becca. It's the cutest thing ever.

With the New Year and some left over pounds from birthing I'm trying to eat alittle more healthy. I started making spinach wraps for lunch. It's so easy and healthy! It must be working because the poop has turned green..Give it a try ya'll. I guess that's all the happenings for now.

double the fun..

2012-01-07T20:10:00.000-08:00

Olivia loves herself some mama. She doesn't play too well independently and hates being left alone in any room of the house. Every night when I take a bath she gets in. When I get ready she insists on putting make-up on too. Sometimes I do wish she would let me take a dump in private!! I mean for the love child?!

But then recently I thought..some day she may not want to be just like me. She may not think it's so fun to shop with me at Target. So for now I'll enjoy having my mini me. Besides, velour tracksuits, Uggs, and babies can be pretty cool.

chicken anyone??

2012-01-05T18:41:00.000-08:00

What are we eating??

I have to work some serious mojo to get Olivia to eat healthy! Well, really to just eat period. She hates food for some reason. After weeks of begging..sometimes I get lazy and buy her the one thing she will usually eat McDonald's 4 piece chicken nuggets.

Recently, I was informed, and did a little research as to what is actually in them..

Ground guts, blood, bones, added bleach, ammonia, and artificial chicken flavor..YUMMY!

2012-01-01T21:03:00.000-08:00

{A toast to health, wealth, & happiness..but mainly wealth in 2012!}

{The first family meal of 2012 salmon, green salad, and yukon gold mash potatoes, with a slice of pumpkin pie as well as chocolate Andres mint cupcakes for dessert. I was going to take lil' smokies cover them with croissant dough and bake them for an appetizer during the foozball..I totally forgot them over at my parents..my mind these days}

{The kids in their January jammies}

{Aren't the individual Martinellis sparkling cider bottles so cute, and delish}

{Liv started the New Year celebrating at a birthday party of one of her BFFs, Adelyn. It was a western theme. I didn't get any pictures of them together. It may have had something to do with the fact I worked the night before at the Lakewood Urgent Care and was 2 hours late to the party..opps!}

Happy New Year!

Christmas Part #1

2011-12-28T08:56:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve

We spent Christmas Eve with the Rosados. Greg jr spent all day Christmas Eve working. Even though he was gone most of the day, we still managed to have some family F*U*N. We ate dinner and opened gifts together. My in-laws are so good to me and kind. My mother-in-law Betty likes to buy the grandkiddos presents she would like as a child. Olivia & Cousin Gabe are quite the little travelers so one present they received were these fiber optic little suitcases..they're so cute..

Los Cabo here we come!!

There are 5 Rosado grandkids now. They each had their own stocking..

Cruz was a little out of sorts with all the excitement and loud laughter.

Papa Greg

Uncle Chad with Baby Jax..isn't he cute!

Darius

Aunt Cassy

Four..

2011-12-28T07:53:00.000-08:00

{4}

Happy Birthday Miss Olivia!

2 months..

2011-12-21T14:55:00.000-08:00

Mr. Cruz

11lbs 10oz (25%)

23inches (50%)

Wow, I can't believe 2 months have past already. The last several weeks have been filled with many sleepless nights and tender moments we're had together as a family. Greg was able to take off a month of work. It's the most time we're spent together since we met in the fall of 1999. We would not have survived his birth without the help of our family and close friends. Thank you so much Millers, Willis, Storys, Mclaughins, Colemans, Andersons, our neighbors, Kathryn, Cheree, Brook, and of course, our wonderful families. I know I'm forgetting people who have brought us meals, and precious gifts for the little guy. Thank you so much for your kindness.

Isn't our lil' Santa so cute?? BTW..Greg, his dad, and Cruz have "Santa" (saint) as a middle name.

Olivia has been so cute with Cruz. She is such the little mother. It's a relief to see she actually has a soft sweet side..

Olivia goes to preschool every morning. Many days while I get her ready for school I have to let Cruz cry while we hurry and get dressed and out the door. The other day I was making Liv's breakfast and Cruz was crying. I overheard Olivia talking to him. She said, "Brother, does it hurt your feelings that mommy has to get me ready for school?!"

So precious!

Tis the season!

2011-12-14T15:33:00.000-08:00

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas around Casa Rosado. We have tried to keep some yearly family traditions as well as add a few new ones this year. We usually decorate our house the day after Thanksgiving. Olivia loved hanging the ornaments so much. Most of them are 3 ft and below but still so fun!

I put trees in the kids' bedrooms. My mom decorates so beautifully for the holidays and my 3 brothers and I each had a Christmas tree in our rooms growing up.

My mom bought the kids holiday jams (including the baby dolls)

This tradition we started with Olivia 2 years ago. We do a book advent calendar. Each day she opens a book which we read together. Many of the books are Christmas in theme some from other parts of the world. My favorite book so far is The Spirit of Christmas by Nancy Tillman (it's a New York bestseller)

"Remember, this all began with a child.

Because it took nothing but love to begin it,

it's not really Christmas if love isn't in it."

Nana Betty gave Liv an advent calendar from Trader Joes..But unfortunatley, those little milk chocolates are too good to resist so Liv only made it to December 11th.

I got this idea from my friend Brook. You're supposed to hide an Elf each day that the kids can find. Well, Liv doesn't really care about the Elf thing but she LOVES Pets..so we use "Harry the Santa Hamster".

{Of course..cupcake and sugar cookie decorating. I used bran muffins instead of cupcakes this year, barf right?? What can I say, she eats them!}

{Every year we try and participate in a Secret Santa at work, we also spend sometime making gifts and Christmas cards for co-workers and close friends.}

We started a new tradition..maybe?? We went and rode the Polar Express. It was a long ride and bit chilly. Someone had the bright idea to give all the kids bells for the ride back. But even with the motion sickness and loud chaos..Olivia had a blast. She loved riding the train and seeing St. Nick. Plus, she didn't have stay in her seat.!

{Cruz waiting to board the train.}

{FINALLY, Santa was spotted on the train.}

{Somehow we thought just the Willis Family and us were going, it was a pleasant surprise seeing so many friendly faces. Cruz got a little love from uncle Odd.}

{ We got creative this year with the gingerbread housing..What Northwest home doesn't have craisins, pretzel sticks, and almonds on it??}

This is such a wonderful time of year!

Happy Holidays

Love,

The Rosados

p.s. I will get my Christmas cards out eventually!

Dear Santa..

2011-12-10T10:15:00.001-08:00

Dear Santa..

I know I'm 33 years old and should be thinking about giving..But seriously, if you're in the neighborhood with some extra cash drop any or all of these down our chimney. Thanks!

Look Familiar??

2011-12-05T23:19:00.001-08:00

Look Familiar?? I recently had my picture taken with Mr. Handsome. When I saw it I realized I took one in the exact same position with Olivia when she was 2 months old?

Liv has darker skin, not much hair, and weighed 3 pounds less. Other then that..TWINS I tell ya!

True Blue..

2011-12-01T19:25:00.000-08:00

It's Seahawks Game Day! Many of you know the Rosados take the 12th man pretty serious. Even though the team is struggling for the wins this year, we never pass up an opportunity to watch Seattle sports, visit with family, and eat comfort food.

I went ALL out for opening day..Henry Weinhard's rootbeer floats, chips and dips galore, Oh, and my MINI sliders. I made swiss,bacon, & avocado mini sliders, So delish! My Aunt sent Greg those vintage mugs so cool huh?

{Here is a more recent game day..Dog pile on Uncle J-rob}

{Cruzer's all about watchin the foozball in his man chair..he has a bit of the reflux going on so we had to jimmy-rig this wedgie thing for him}

{Dad, I know what you're thinking, kids under 3 shouldn't watch t.v. but Baby Lynch just doesn't listen on game day!!}

White Trash Wednesday

2011-12-01T18:20:00.001-08:00

What do you do on a Wednesday afternoon when it's pouring down rain, like "Noah's Ark" pouring?!! We piled 8 (maybe 9) people in the car and headed down to skateland for some white trash 80's skating.

It was so such fun it's not even funny.

Much to my dismay..Miss O wasn't the biggest fan of skating, too scary!

{The 3 pictures below are us doing the hokey pokey..Liv does like a good dance off}

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T11:33:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving from my little Turkeys!

Miss Olivia

2011-11-11T02:30:00.000-08:00

Olivia is settling into her role at our home as the "new mother". She is just so cute with little Cruz. Everytime he cries she says, "Mom say it's ok little cutie." She also insists to tell us with every little whimper, "Mom, Cruz is crying, he wants you to hold him for awhile." No matter how many times I try and tell her not to feed him or give him a binkie..when I'm upstairs, she insists on helping her way. I put my kids in the car and then run into the house to grab last minute things or clean off the counters, the other day when I went back to the car Olivia looked very suspicious..I think she tried giving Cruz her chocolate milk..Oops!

Liv wanted me to take her picture. She wanted me to capture that she can paint and drink milk! So Talented!

Another year of preschool, Liv has been loving it. They do alot of art projects which is Olivia's favorite!

Liv is growing up so fast! She pretty much runs the show around here and does EVERYTHING herself! I see so much of myself in her it's a crack up. She's so confident and sure of herself..except when it comes to bedtime and then she wants me to lay with her and tell stories. I guess that's the way this parenting stuff goes.

Eye-Candy..

2011-11-01T21:44:00.000-07:00

Some pictures of the newest family member..like I said before..google-eyed! He's so cute I could eat him!

I did a beach theme in Cruz's room. It was so much fun. My Sis-in-Law Kressi hand painted the pictures. Aren't they fabulous?! She's so talented! I sort of wish I had hung them straight now..yikes!

Mr. Cruz is some major eye-candy around Casa Rosado these days with his double dimples and dark hair! It's been alot of fun having a baby around the house again. We just love him.

P.S. His Blessing is November 20th @9:00am

1602 Ruddell Road SE

Thank you Heidi for taking his pictures. You're so wonderful and patient!

3 Brown GoOgle-eyed Lovies!!

2011-10-19T19:43:00.000-07:00

Every few days Olivia likes to inform me that she, Greg, and Cruz have brown eyes and I have blue.

Look at Cruz..isn't he a crack up!! Poor guy, he could not keep his eyes from going cross eyed whenever he was trying to focus on something right in front of him for days.

2011-10-12T08:46:00.000-07:00

155 barfing episodes, 325 Zofran pills for nausea, 134 heart burn pills, 5 rounds of antibiotics, 19 visits to the OB/Hematologist, 22 blood draws to check platelets/baby, $19,000 in medical bills and missed days at work, 12 glycerin suppositories for constipation (ouch), +6 inch scar in the stomach area.. BUT

It is all worth it once you get to hold your little one!

Meet Perfection!

2011-09-28T19:04:00.000-07:00

Make you feel my Love

When the rain is blowing in your face

And the whole world is on your case

I could offer you a warm embrace

To make you feel my love

When the evening shadows and the stars appear

And there is no one there to dry your tears
I could hold you for a million years

To make you feel my love

I know you haven't made your mind up yet

But I would never do you wrong

I've known it from the moment that we met

No doubt in my mind where you belong

I'd go hungry, I'd go black and blue

I'd go crawling down the avenue
There's nothing that I wouldn't do

To make you feel my love

The storms are raging on the rollin' sea

And on the highway of regret

The winds of change are blowing wild and free

You ain't seen nothing like me yet

I could make you happy, make your dreams come true

Nothing that I wouldn't do

Go to the ends of the earth for you

To make you feel my love

Bob Dylan

Roman Cruz Santa Rosado

Born 9/22/11 at 3:10pm 7 lbs 2oz 19 inches long

They're never too young..

2011-09-10T17:35:00.000-07:00

to learn how to clean!!

Science Camp

2011-09-08T07:04:00.000-07:00

This summer I put Olivia in day camp at the Hand's on Children's Museum. She did a week long zoo camp in June and then ocean's camp in August. They were absolutely so wonderful. I wish I could have put her in all of their camps. She went for a week from 9-12pm. There were two other kids from her preschool class that went to the camp as well which was nice so she knew a few kids.

Olivia's Lutheran preschool had a free camp as well. Her whole preschool class went to the camp. The theme was the "parable of the sower". They spent the week painting planters, planting seeds, doing crafts with wood. etc. She had so much fun. The Gloria Dei chapel is so beautiful with the stain glass windows.

Hooray for Science Camps! I can only hope she develops a love for Math and Science..cross your fingers!!

slowly but surely..

2011-09-07T07:39:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe 4 years ago at this same time in the year we were painting a baby room for Olivia. All of the furniture was donated to us by my coworker, who's father works at a recycling facility that gets rid of baby furniture in Tacoma. Olivia has done a number on the furniture but we'll continue to be thrifty and use it again. I about cried when she broke the crib and chewed off all the wood veneer.

It's seems all furniture decor can be fixed with a fresh coat of paint..

And so that's what we did. We painted all the furniture blue and FINALLY got the walls finished!

Slowly but surely the room is coming together. I hope this next week to get things finished!

2+ to being pregnant

2011-08-28T12:37:00.000-07:00

There are only 2 things I like about being pregnant..(1.) Of course, you get a beautiful child at the end. (2.) my usual mcsaggy boobs get bigger and go back to the positions they were pre children..IT'S WONDERFUL! We'll ignore the fact that during pregnancy and nursing I'm so overweight no one sees them and continue to focus on the positive.

Cheers..to Bigger Breasts!!

33..

2011-08-24T13:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Greg!

{ We started out the birthday having lunch with daddy at work.}
{We ended the week celebrating con la familia!!}

33 things you may not know about G..

(1.) His full name is..Gregorio Hommy Santa Rosado

(2.) Greg lives by one commandment ..Love One Another!

(3.) joined the Army at 17.

(4.)100% Puerto Rican

(5.) All Aunts/Uncles/and cousins are from NYC

(6.) Greg takes the 12th man VERY seriously. We watch all Seattle sports team games!

(7.) Greg checks Seattle PI, Seahawks addicts.com, and ESPN.com daily!

(8.) Both G's parents are extremely hardworking, it's a character trait they passed on to their son.

(9.) G has crazy stories from his childhood

(10.) G loves collectables!

(11.) Every night around midnight G eats a snack which usually includes some sort of pudding,oreo blend.

(12.) G only sleeps for 4-5 hours a day

(13.) He also drinks caffeine in all forms

(14.) Gs doesn't think his boss likes him and we can't figure out why??

(15.) G has friends still from 1st grade.

(16.) G's passionate in all he does.

(17.) Once while living in Utah, G got off work Sunday at 10pm drove all night to Utah to visit me, stayed Monday and drove home Tuesday..that's love folks!

(18.) the average American eats 110 lbs of read meat per year, G's annual average is almost double especially PORK!

(19.) Did you know the 76 station in Dupont gives free hotdogs with a gas fill?? G does!

(20.) We buy 5 bottles of Jabanero Green Tabasco & 7 tapatio hot sauce each year!

(21.) Greg has a bleeding heart and loves to help everyone.

(22.)G has never talked back to his parents, EVER!

(23.) During our first conversation I knew he was someone very special.

(24.) G's use of the English language is sketchy..

(25.) G wants us to buy a '64 impala with switches to roll to church in

(26.) G has a vintage tee shirt collection

(27.) G loves shopping for clothes, his newest fad is chuck taylors with suits.

(28.) G never keeps his phone charged

(29.) G has lost both original keys to his jetta.

(30.) G has lost his wallet 48 times this year.

(31.) G has 7 watches ranging in value from $100.00-2200.00, none of them work.

(32.) Rice, and chilliMac are staples in G's diet

(33.) Greg is very affecionate, everyone in his family greets with a hug and kiss on the right cheek. It's a tradition I hope to pass on to my kids.

G we love you. Happy 33!

a few summer activities..

2011-08-18T15:07:00.000-07:00

{We've been doing as much popsicle eating and swimming as possible.}

{I don't do crafts people! But..I have one skill and one skill only. I can paint. We've been painting and doing home projects like it's no one's business. I'm painting the babes room with a orange and blue stripe. I decided Liv's room needed something so I decided to paint a tree/birdhouses/flowers..etc. It has been SO much work. Now I understand why people pay the big bucks to just buy everything done at Pottery Barn. Hopefully, there will be finished pictures to come.}

{We took Liv to the fair..she liked the animals and all but was more impressed with the level of sand, rocks, dirt, and poop at this place. We realized a field trip to the local rock yard will be better suited for Olivia.}

{Greg had a small altercation with the laundry machine AND..lets just say the soap won!! Only one night was spent at St. Pete's ER and 3 follow-ups with the eye Doc. Liv got a major kick out of the 48 hour pirate costume. It was sure nice having Greg home during the day even if it did cost a hundreds of dollars in medical bills with him sleeping off narcotics.}

a trip to the ocean..

2011-07-25T15:04:00.001-07:00

This last weekend we went to Ocean Shores. The weather was beautiful. We got in a quick weekend of shell collecting, pool swimming, and beach going.

Uncle Cutie comes to visit

2011-07-22T15:14:00.000-07:00

My brother Jared recently came out from SLC for a visit. He was only here for a few days but we managed to visit several fun places from Seattle to Gig Harbor, Issaquah and back to Olympia while he was here.

{My other brother Dave lives in Issaquah. While saying hello we took liv to the Cougar Mountain Zoo.}

{A stop by Black Bear for some frozen Yogurt..Yum!}

{We went to Gig Harbor to visit the cousins, have some BBQ, and do some swimming}

{Liv couldn't get enough deep end jumping with the cousins!!}

{We had been on the go for a few days and needed some soul food from Doby's Brick Oven Pizza in Olympia and of course, a blast from the past with a "Star Wars" marathon..HOLLA!}

{The last supper, a beloved lunch at Anthony's before take off.}

a new cousin..

2011-07-09T14:48:00.001-07:00

Greg's sister Cassy FINALLY..(1 week overdue) had her baby. It was so worth the wait. He is so beautiful~ Those Puerto Ricans have the most amazing baby making genetics!!

Jax Ryker Lundblad

Baby Cruz

2011-07-06T18:10:00.001-07:00

I'm definitely pregnant! There's no denying my shape and size at this point. I'M HUGE PEOPLE!! That being said..I bought my first thing for the baby. A big shark bulletin board to put up in his room. We don't have a car seat, stroller, or any clothes for the little guy BUT he'll have a bulletin board in his room to put pictures of memories we'll make together..

Something slithering to see..

2011-07-05T09:25:00.000-07:00

Summer is here, YES!!

We'll be going to the Tumwater Library this Thursday at 2pm to see the Reptile man if anyone wants to join us..

2011-07-03T18:19:00.000-07:00

YES..Graduation has finally arrived! It wasn't Greg's first degree and sadly it won't be his last...But for today we'll just celebrate in the moment.

They have a dinner for all the Bachelor of Science graduates. Greg was the student body president for the 2010-2011. He was in charge of organizing the dinner as well as introducing all the faculty and speakers for the night. It was fun attending the dinner. It seemed like all the graduates were receiving degrees in something health care or medical imaging related. Several of my own co-workers and managers were there in attendance.

The food was fabulous! I had to put a picture up of the dessert. "chocolate mousse, marionberry tarte, and cheesecake" They gave everyone all three. Being pregnant I couldn't have been more delighted with the food selection. It was simply devine!

The graduation day finally arrived. We met at Greg's absolute favorite restaurant in Bellevue, The Sichuanese Cuisine! It's a bit of a dump..MSG and all but the boy loves it!

He did it! Summa Cum Laude! The highest graduating honor! The Bachelor's programs at Bellevue College are quite challenging because all the graduates work full time and have to go to college full time while they're in the program as well.

I was so proud watching Greg that day as the graduates came in and took their seats. It took much more sacrifice and discipline for me to help Greg finish this degree then it actually did when I was in college getting my own.

Congratulations Greg You did it!

Randoms of Liv..

2011-06-23T20:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T06:47:00.000-07:00

{I'm so glad when Daddy comes home, glad as I can be.}
{clap my hands..}

{and shout for joy..}

{then climb upon his knee.}

{put my arms around his neck, hold him tight like this.}

{pat his cheeks and give him what??}

{a great big KISS!}

This is one of my favorite pictures of Greg with Olivia below. I couldn't ask for a better partner in crime to tackle the challenges of parenting. Greg fills Olivia's life with loud laughter and wonderful memories.

Greg we love you! Happy Father's Day!

We love you more than worms, potato bugs, and outer space!!

Olivia Rosado

God does hear and answer prayers..

2011-06-17T08:10:00.000-07:00

Finally Olympia gets Chipotle! It's about time!!

Meet Daniele

2011-06-14T13:51:00.000-07:00

Meet Daniele!

I work in a 3 story medical building with all different doctor's offices and clinics. Daniele works several days a week greeting patients by the elevator helping find where they need to go. Daniele was born with condition called Osteogenesis imperfecta or "brittle bone disease". She can't walk, run or do other normal daily activities but she can talk. And that's what she does. She greets our patients with a happy smile and helps direct others to their doctors. She is so inspiring to me. Everyday I work and see Daniele I have a a little more gratitude for the challenges of life. She reminds me so much of the quotes by President Hinckley.

"Life is to be enjoyed, not endured." "Try a little harder to be a little better"

Have a wonderful week!

My Birthday Weekend..

2011-06-05T18:44:00.000-07:00

This week was my birthday. Birthdays just aren't quite the same past 21. But we still managed to have some fun and great food. My parents took me to Anthonys for a seafood lunch on my birthday. My parents are both retired and live in Olympia. I know I'm so blessed! Greg came home on my birthday to tell me he had the next 5 days off. It was a bit of a surprise but a fabulous reason to grab life by the balls and celebrate to the fullest! And so we did..

{a stop at the local cupcake shop..they make "baby" cupcakes as liv says and they're so cute!}

{never enough biking/talking/and walking}

{a dip at the local swimming hole, A.K.A. my grandma's place}

{more grillin of course..lemon zest chicken, butternut squash, grilled mushrooms and asparagus with fresh rosemary..the food was wonderful and our neighbors are great company}

{our future entomologist..she has her bug collector there and is always on the hunt for more insects}

{We invited a friendly neighbor for Sunday dinner}

To all my family and close friends, thank you all so much for the birthday wishes.
You are wonderful and I love you!

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-05-31T08:27:00.001-07:00

We got a new barbecue as a graduation gift for Greg from my parents. We wasted no time testing it out. Saturday we made top sirloin and grilled vegetable kabobs. I found a recipe for pasta, bacon, shrimp, avocado salad that was great. Sunday we made pineapple fajitas. There was marionberry pie and Henry Weinhard's root beer floats. The food was great and it was nice to visit with family.

Monday we went to the Mariner's Game. The holiday games are the best. They start at 1:10pm instead of 7pm. Liv was lovin the game until the 7th inning stretch. We had to bring in a reliever. The beloved "BINK" which she'll probably take to college, and the IPod for a show.

We spent the rest of the weekend riding our bikes, gardening, and putting up the trampoline.

How many college degrees does it take to assemble a trampoline?? It took forever and it was actually really hot back there. I hope they still want to help put up the treehouse?

The End of Preschool until next Fall that is..

2011-05-26T15:49:00.000-07:00

{O ready for her last day. This is the only way she wears her backpack. When she takes it off I adjust the straps and the next day they are back her way..so strong-willed.}

{They got to ride the school bus today. They even have carseats on the bus! Her school is so wonderful.}

{They had a picnic at a very private park..such a fun place}

{Kyle isn't he so cute}

{O's BFF from school and their teacher Mrs. Sneider. I love this woman so much.}

I hold her in high esteem.

It was such a great place full of laughter and patience. They have storytime, music time, and art projects with every lesson.

The FINAL ride home from the 2010-2011 school year!

Heavenly Fabric

2011-05-26T15:11:00.000-07:00

{The blue office wall}

{The blessed fabric}

Talking about my house makes me feel funny..I don't really know why. Personally I love a good remodel blog post. Or a before and after decorating extravaganza. I guess I just worry what my friends from other nations will think about my life. It's oh so silly I know.

With that being said..you must applaud my cheap fabric findings!! As you can see from the picture above the office in the house we bought was already painted blue. I've been on the hunt to find fabric that's blue, mustard yellow, and green OH AND CHEAP, of course!!

THAT DAY HAS ARRIVED..

{I'll let you know how the curtains and pillows turn out..BTW I don't sew..}

Playdates with Friends

2011-05-25T16:34:00.000-07:00

The last two weeks we've had not stop babysitting, play dates, and adventures. It has been such a blast having other kids around to play with Olivia. We've been to the RACK, the Avonlea Park, Campus Meadows playground, Taco Bell, Panera Bread, McDonalds, Waggner's Bakery, Meconis, Jumping Jacks, Children's Museum, and of course..THE BEACH!

My Parents live on the Puget Sound and it is such a blessing to have a private beach near by!
I'm so excited for nice weather and outdoor activites. I don't know how people can live in towns smaller than Olympia. There are so many fun things for kids and families here.

I'm going to start a weekly activity for friends who want to come too. Please let me know if you're interested and which day is best for your children. I'm thinking Wednesday?? Does morning or afternoon work better?

Enjoy the sun..Hope to see you this summer!

Love, R Family

SoCal..

2011-05-15T16:48:00.000-07:00

We've been in San Diego California for the last 5 days. Greg and I now understand why couples with children leave them with Grandma and travel alone. Olivia drove us absolutely bonkers this whole trip with crying fits, sickness, urgent care visits, sleepless nights, bleeding head wounds, crying tantrums. Did I mention the crying??

However..even with a few extra doctor bills, we still managed to have some F*U*N. I really love the SoCal beach town, local street vendors and shopping vibe. It's similar to the Seattle crowd but with surfers and pit bulls!

I'll post a few more pictures later!

Our baby is a...

2011-05-10T19:24:00.001-07:00

BOY!

My ultrasound was two hours of poking and pushing, measuring and taking pictures. After all the full bladder fetal measurements, it looks like the little guy is healthy and developing well. He is 9 0z in weight so far. We are super excited and just glad the baby is healthy. Thank you for all your love and support. Hopefully in 18 weeks or so we'll get to see him.

Boy vs. Girl??

2011-05-06T11:08:00.001-07:00

I am finally 5 months pregnant!

Hallelujah! For those of you that don't know Greg and I both work for Radiology groups. That's medical imaging PEOPLE ..we see pregnant people, ultrasound images, etc all the time. The last five months have been torture waiting to see a picture of our baby. We haven't looked once! When I was pregnant with Olivia I must have had 12 sonograms.

This time I have been waiting and waiting patiently for weeks and months to finally do my 20 week survey.

The day is finally here! Next Tuesday May 10th at 9:00am

Any guesses?

Easter

2011-05-06T09:24:00.001-07:00

Easter Sunday
We usually both pick out different things we want Olivia to have. Greg picked out the animal doc outfit.

Olivia got some new outfits from Nana Betty. Here is one of them.. guess she didn't want her picture taken.

We finally got the girl a bike.

Some of her Easter loot!!

I had to make her a custom bow to match an outfit!!

We had Easter brunch with the Rosados. Breakfast was wonderful over at Chad and Cassy's house. It's always a treat for Olivia to spend time with her only cousins. I didn't think to take any pictures the entire day..whoops! Dinner was at my parent's house. My mom always decorates the table so beautifully for the holidays. She had Easter presents and an egg hunt for Olivia. We did a resurrection scavenger hunt with our primary class. The kids would fight over who would read the scripture in Matthew and then get the next clue. If only scripture reading were always that exciting for them. It was a wonderful day full of hope, laughter, and family!

St. Patty's Day

2011-03-17T07:32:00.000-07:00

We spent St. Patrick's Day visiting Lattins Cider Mill. This is one of our favorite places to visit. Olivia's school had a field trip there that day as well. My cousin Ellen and her two little ones met us at Lattins for some green sprinkled donuts and fun. The goats just had their babies that morning. They were so cute and tiny.

I'm pregnant!

2011-02-13T18:19:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it! After realizing I've had the flu now for two weeks the pee stick confirms

..YES I am with child!

February already

2011-02-02T19:14:00.001-08:00

No I didn't give birth recently..it's liv from back in the day. I am still obsessed with Olivia as a new babe. She was so cute! We have been unpacking and lifting, unpacking and lifting for months it seems. It is so nice to be living in a house again. Although I've spent the last 13 years living in an apartment of some kind so we'll see how long this house thing sticks.

Stake Conference 2011

2011-01-29T16:25:00.000-08:00

I put together a little worksheet to do during Conference for my 8 year old primary class. If you're facing the pulpit Greg and I will be sitting on the left side of the gym in the back. If you can answer all my questions and finish my word search there just might be a Valentine's treat for you for being such a wonderful saint!

Christmas

2011-01-23T13:45:00.001-08:00

{a few pictures of O in her Christmas clothes}

I am so behind on blogging. These are just a few pictures from Christmas..

Beast Mode

2011-01-09T19:33:00.000-08:00

Beast Mode..that's all I'm going to say!

Go Seahawks!

Tis the Season..

2010-12-11T21:50:00.000-08:00

To be jolly..

We've been shopping like crazy and baking holiday treats. I'm so loving the Christmas music. We took Olivia to Disney on Ice. She loved it so much, she wouldn't go to the bathroom and peed on Greg's lap..Oops!

Schilter Farms

2010-12-07T23:57:00.000-08:00

Just a few pictures taken at Schilter Farms.

Thank you Aimee..

Hoarding: Buried Alive

2010-11-27T15:32:00.000-08:00

{This is how Olivia likes to sleep, on top of her stuff}

{This is the drawer where her shoes usually go}

Have you guys seen that show on TLC called Hoarding: Buried Alive? Olivia is a major hoarder. Each night before she falls asleep she goes around the house and gets all her collectables. She is so funny. She's a crack up. I just love her. I usually have to go into her room after she's been asleep and clear off her bed.

Kids..

Christmas is in the air..

2010-11-26T16:28:00.000-08:00

{Holiday snacks}

{visiting with friends & family..AND holiday decorating of course.}

{playing in the snow}

It's the most wonderful time of year
with the kids jingle-belling
and everyone telling you
to be of good cheer
It's the most wonderful time of the year..

I love this time of year. We made a Christmas cd for all our friends and family. So stay tuned it will be delivered to your homes shortly!

Happy Holidays!

my life=waxing

2010-11-16T20:29:00.000-08:00

{me..hideous..right after a hot wax}

I'm at home..8pm..still alone, quiet, Greg's gone..It's my normal life! It kinda sucks. Never in a million years did I ever imagine spending night after night alone but I am. Greg works full time at Allenmore Hospital in Nuclear Medicine and is taking 18 credits of college so from 6-11pm he's studying. . 2 years down 1 to go..I know it will end one day.

It's like getting your face waxed..It hurts. I cry. My whole face turns red but after two days I turn into a girl again and my mustache disappears..well for a month that is..

Greg come home..we miss you! I can't wait until he's finished. I miss having a husband.

One last thing I want to say..I'm sorry to any of the lacey ladies I haven't been a good friend to over the last year. For birthdays missed or hurt words said, I'm sorry. I hope you can forgive me. A friend loveth at all times (proverbs 17:17).

My only goal for 2011 is to be a better friend.

Good Night!

reading??

2010-11-12T08:01:00.000-08:00

Olivia loves to read as you can see. She REALLY likes to read each book ONCE..and that's it!

jj..got to love him

2010-10-28T20:28:00.000-07:00

Jack Johnson that is.. For all you out-of-staters, you need to go to a concert at the Gorge Amphitheater with your husbands. It's on the top 10 of best things about the Northwest.

I love me some Jack. He's so dreamy!

Privacy??

2010-10-16T20:47:00.000-07:00

I'm wondering if I should shut my blog down for awhile or go private. I started a blog several years ago when it was just Greg and I. Lately I've been wondering if it's safe to put information about Olivia on the internet. I don't actually know. Those of you that have gone private what do you think?

Just a thought..

school begins

2010-10-09T18:51:00.000-07:00

Olivia started preschool. I can't believe she's old enough. It kind of freaks me out and makes me excited all at the same time. I love school so much and hope dearly Liv also has a love for learning and education. I have the fondest memories of my own elementary school. I wasn't sure if I should send Olivia to school since she is only 2 and will now have to now go to preschool for three years. But..after some research on early childhood development I decided I would give it a go. I'll let you know how it goes.

Summer Randoms

2010-09-08T16:07:00.000-07:00

{Alice in Wonderland.. play put on by the Elementary kids, it was excellent!}

{Pottery class with Olivia}

{Voodoo donuts in Portland}

{Yaquina Head Oregon Coast Hike, I think}

{Newport Beach Aquarium}

{Tillamook Oregon..wanted to kiss the CEO for the development of their icecream!)

{July 4th with the Rosados. Olivia had a blast with her cousin Gabe. I had to throw my BP red, white, & blue shoes on there for good measure}

{We took a short vacation to Pt. Townsend and Discovery Bay..It's such a cute beach town with great shops.}

{ Happy 30th Becca! Our outfits took the prize..I "made love" to Mr. T and little Richie all in the same weekend!}

{ a few trips to Pt. Defiance Zoo, Liv is finally old enough to ride the camel.}

{ a few Ft. Lewis bowling trips. Olivia loves to bowl. It's $1.50 game night on Mondays and Wednesday is free pizza night. Let us know if anyone wants to go bowling with us. My military ID expires in 2012 so we have 1 year to go.

Summer was so much fun. Greg and I both had most of the summer off. We took full advantage of our time together as a family. We drove all over the Northwest. It really is such a pretty place.

so big but still so small!

2010-09-07T08:23:00.000-07:00

Olivia is FINALLY potty-trained! It is no easy feat! We've been working on this for months. She weighs 30 lbs and is 37 inches. She has started writing her letters. She can write her name. Don't worry other moms she only writes "Oli". And it's written in all directions left to right as well as right to left. Sometimes I feel she is growing up too fast but other days I realize she is still wearing footed pajamas and carrying her blanket where ever she goes.

Happy Birthday Greg!

2010-08-18T11:22:00.000-07:00

Can I just say how much I love Greg. He is such an awesome husband and father. Whether it's watching a young mother's kids while she goes to the doctors, or scrubbing a pregnant friend's toilet so they can move, grilling fajitas to take to a family who just had a baby. He's such a great person. I love him to death.

Happy Birthday!

The Artesian Well

2010-08-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

Did you know that Olympia has an Artesian Well? I know it's the craziest thing. It's downtown right in the middle of a parking lot. People come from all over the place to fill up buckets and water bottles to drink this natural mineral water.

Dear Winco,

2010-08-15T12:13:00.000-07:00

When will you be open for shopping?? I need those Walmart prices without the nasty produce! I can't wait for Tillamook ice cream $2.41 a half gallon. Can I get an amen ladies?!

3rd world grill

2010-08-10T08:52:00.000-07:00

The other day we were chasing Olivia and she fell. She fell mouth opened and jacked up her perfect smile. I can't believe it. I'm sad. I have personally brushed with a sonicare, tom's toothpaste..AND flossed her teeth everyday of her life. And for what?

Baby Baby Baby

2010-08-02T08:35:00.000-07:00

So last week I took one of my coworker's kids, Makenna to a Justin Bieber concert. Oh, be jealous ladies..be very jealous! I didn't actually know who Justin Bieber was until the day we were heading to the concert. I soon learned very quickly that Bieber fever is in full effect with the 8-13 year girls!

Me, Makenna, & Shannon

Makenna had Bieber Fever!

Funny side note..While we were driving to the concert, I told Makenna I will be the only 30 something there. Actually come to find out all the moms were close to my age, ha. If Makenna was my daughter I would have had her when I was 20.

p.s. So Greg and I are open to take any ones children on dates with us, sporting events, etc. However would it be possible for you to persuade them toward the Jack Johnson/Ben Harper genre?

Olivia's first make over

2010-07-29T07:53:00.000-07:00

Olivia loves to put on make-up. Here is just one of her many creations. My SNL Shannon so graciously donated all her purple to the cause.

The Oregon Coast

2010-06-27T20:41:00.000-07:00

We spent the last 7 days visiting the Oregon Coast. It is such a beautiful place. If you want a quick inexpensive trip, I highly recommend it. Newport Beach, Lincoln City, Depoe Bay, Tillamook. We had a great week visiting with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. There is too much to see and do.

swag

2010-06-11T17:23:00.000-07:00

Every year Multicare (the company I work for) put on the sound to narrows.

It's a 12k race that I've done the last few years. Last year I got Clarissa to do it. This year Traci Jarman-Shelton, Brook Matayoshi, Clarissa Gifford, and Heidi Marshall are doing it. I wanted to make the race really fun. What better way then to put together some swag for the ladies.

They turned out pretty cute if I do say so myself.

Good Luck Tomorrow!

2010-06-10T21:04:00.000-07:00

Dear Ocean..

"Can ye fathom the ocean, dark and deep, where the mighty waves and the grandeur sweep?"

{Fanny Crosby}

Do you see that piece of coral in front of my feet? I stole it from the beach and brought it back home. I always bring something sneaky back with me when I travel. (don't tell customs)
I miss the big blue ocean water. I love that feeling of sand in between your toes. There is something so soulful about sitting on the beach listening to waves go by.

"How inappropriate to call this planet Earth when it is quite clearly Ocean."

{Arthur C Clarke}

A woman's heart is a deep ocean of secrets.

{Gloria Stuart}

We miss you!

Happy 100th Jacques Cousteau!

(Jacques Cousteau was an undersea explorer, a photographer, an inventor of diving devices, and a writer.)

"J. Cousteau must be turning in his gave over this BP oil spill"

{Rachel Rosado} ha!

Mexico

2010-06-04T08:50:00.000-07:00

{We went to Xcaret Park. There is an aquarium and many zoo animals. As you can see they live in their natural habitat and they don't really even have many railings. I was freaked that Liv was going to fall in the water.}

{ In Mexico there are many places where you can swim with dolphin, and sharks}

{Cancun was so beautiful. There were birds and lizards all over the place.}

Senorita Olivia

2010-05-29T07:57:00.000-07:00

{The 4 pictures above were at a Lagoon in Playa del Carmen}

Olivia had the best time. We were looking for a place that was kid friendly. Our hotel was designed for small kids. They had a pirate ship the kids could play on, a water slide park for toddlers, cartoon characters walking around meeting the kids, an indoor play area with swings. They had four different children's pool areas. Each night they put on a show. Olivia had a blast. Most of the guests were families from other countries. I thought there would be more American families vacationing together. It was a really cool experience for her to play with children from all over the world.

The beaches were so gorgeous! The water was an almost blinding turquoise. It was easy to travel everywhere by bus. The Mexican people were so kind-hearted and willing to help us.

10 days is a REALLY long time to have your kid(s) sleeping in the same room with you!

My recommendation if you're sleeping in a hotel room with your kids in the same room-(did I mention the same room/bed for 10 nights!!) 5 nights only!

Olivia has come with Greg and I on every vacation since we got married. Even our "honeymoon" which we took 3 years after we got married due to military commitments
I found out I was pregnant in April and we left in May. She was still sort of there! So I'm thinking sometime within the next year maybe just Greg and I should take a vacation?

Any ideas where we should go?

Chichen Itza..Almost

2010-05-23T08:40:00.001-07:00

Below is a picture of the Chichen Itza. It's a temple built by the Mayan people way back in the day. It's one of the 7 wonders of the world. We bought our tickets to go. Got on the bus, got off the bus, on the bus, got off..Finally, we ended..

Here..Below is the place where Olivia decided riding the bus wasn't fun anymore.
Maybe not the best idea for 2 year olds! We thought we would be going straight there from our hotel in an air conditioned van. We're silly American tourist! We started out in a van but made so many stops to pick up others and kept switching buses. All of them were hot and very crowded. We didn't even get seats next to each other. Finally, we decided to bag the whole thing and go to Walmart for Mexican vanilla! I can't wait to bake with real vanilla. As far as seeing one of the 7 wonders of the world..NOT any time this year!

Bienvenidos!

2010-05-19T07:36:00.000-07:00

Hola..Bienvenidos! I've spoken more Spanish in the last 12 hours then I have in the last 5 years. I've been translating for my Latin family..Ha! Everytime I travel to another country, it's a rude awakening of the blessings we have a US citizens. Everywhere we turn people are trying to sell homemade items to make a living. Mothers, children, Grandparents are all working whether it's cooking, cleaning, selling trinkets and homemade treasures. The initial hustle and bussle of all the sales literally makes me sick to my stomach. I feel so guilty being able to support my family of 3 working 2 days a week. Everytime I travel I learn a few more things about traveling with children. I have a few funny stories and some lessons learned. I'll share later. Olivia loves everything about Mexico. There is sand and water everywhere. She's in heaven!! See ya in a few days!

p.s. if you're traveling to the Carribean part of Mexico maybe avoid May/June it's hurricane season and it rains like a mofo, seriously..FYI!

El Cinco de Mayo

2010-05-15T12:11:00.001-07:00

May 5th commemorates the Mexican Army's unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. We decided to celebrate Dr. Coon's May seis birthday with a Mexican fiesta at work!

It was muy fly. We had quite the Spanish feast. I love my co-workers!

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T13:25:00.000-07:00

I remember my mother's prayers and they have always followed me.

They have clung to me all my life. ~Abraham Lincoln

Happy Mother's Day!

FINALLY she's potty trained..sort of?

2010-05-07T09:28:00.000-07:00

Olivia has finally decided to potty train herself. It wasn't very hard. I'm such an awesome mom after all. Now there is only one issue that maybe you can help me with. She only does it at night. Oh, and instead of going to the toilet, she actually takes off her pajamas in bed and wets the sheets. I don't have to change her diaper the next morning but I am washing all the bedding and blankets each day. Maybe diaper changing isn't so bad after all!

March

2010-04-29T19:56:00.000-07:00

These pictures are actually from March. I'm just now realizing I never posted any of them. All of the kids look so cute too. I have to thank my friend Clarissa from the first picture for coming. She drove up from Chehalis with her own 4 kids plus the 2 foster kids she cares for. She is so classy and makes the life of a stay-at-home mom seem almost glamorous. I met her over ten years ago when she married my friend Doug. She is a super hottie mama and I had to give her a shot out for driving an hour to come decorate cookies with us.

Thank all you moms who brought their kids over. It always is a treat for Olivia to visit with other kids especially when sugar is involved.

Last applause..to Becca Anderson. Your cooking skills are off the chain! I know I use the same sugar cookie recipe but they just taste better from your house.

2010-04-22T08:59:00.000-07:00

Happy Earth Day!

{a creative treat even I can do}

These super cool water bottles that have their own filters are buy one get one free today.

Reuse, Reduse, Recycle...Happy Earth Day!

Vancouver British Columbia

2010-04-20T18:53:00.001-07:00

We were able to drive up and stay for a couple of days in Vancouver B.C. One of the first things we were able to do was take a tour of the Vancouver B.C. Temple. The Temple was really beautiful both inside and out. I was glad I was able to go in with my parents and also take Olivia inside. The temple flowers are absolutely gorgeous. There were tulips and daffodils all over the place. As I listened to visitors ask questions about the Holy Temple and saw the cute Sister Missionaries giving tours, it brought back so many unique memories from my mission on Temple Square. I really love the feelings of peace that come from the blessings of the temple.

Olivia was a stinker for most of our little trip. However, when we were visiting the temple, she was in the best of moods. She was thrilled with all the pretty flowers. My dad did a great job catching her on camera.

We had to grab food at the Northwest Award Winning Restaurant 2009 at Mr. Pickwick's Fish & Chips!

The 3 above are from Vancouver's Aquarium. They had a 4D movie which was fun. Olivia was loving the dolphin show!

Here is one of the scenic lookouts in Stanley Park.

The 2 above are from the infamous Kerry Park in Seattle. Olivia was getting tired of the car ride home so we made a detour to overlook Seattle. We had an awesome time as a family and with my parents visiting Vancouver. We hope we can visit again this summer.

Casa Roasdo

2010-04-09T13:26:00.000-07:00

I had a friend the other day ask how do you afford to go on a family vacation every year. Below is just one of the silly ways we save our money at Casa Rosado.

When we were living in North Carolina in 2005, Greg and I got the pretty $100 scriptures. You know the ones that are leather with our names on them..etc. Over the last 20 moves somehow we lost one set of scriptures and then recently Greg left my set at church. (BTW..if you see a mini burgundy quad with Rachel Johnson at church let me know!) So we decided save a few Benjamins and buy USED with other people's names already on them for an additional 25% off. Super sweet I know.

Isn't it funny the way people spend money? Who needs health care, retirement, or a house when you can go vacation!!

Caribbean ocean here we come!

April is Coming!

2010-03-21T15:54:00.000-07:00

There isn't any new happenings with la familia Rosado. Olivia and I have just been hanging together trying to stay busy. I've been doing some bargain shopping lately. I found this awesome couture dress for Liv $12 dollars!! And then of course, I made a headband to match! It has been so much fun for me to dress a little girl. Greg is taking his boards March 30th. If he passes (cross your fingers) he should be eligible for employment YESSSS!

I'll be having you over soon to decorate sugar cookies for Easter. Greg just bought me some Easter cookie cutters off of Ebay.

Sunriver Oregon

2010-03-12T23:15:00.001-08:00

We went to Sunriver Resort in Oregon for a few days in February with the Baria Family.

We went to Winterfest 2010 in Bend OR

Olivia wasn't feeling the horse ride but came around after the first lap.

Olivia wasn't sure how the ice skates were supposed to work.

The kids were loving Gregorio..

The above 2 pictures were our celebration of Chinese New Year. Becca served her mission in Taiwan so she made a curry dish and had us help with homemade pot stickers. I spent half of my mission with Asian companions and ironically, even my companions from Japan seemed to celebrate the new year. Chinese New Year is the longest and most important festivity in the Chinese Lunar Calendar.

We had a wonderful time crashing the Baria's family vacation. Sun River Resort has so many fun things to do both in the summer and winter.

Walking the Baby

2010-03-12T23:08:00.000-08:00

Olivia is so hilarious. Last Sunday we had to get out of the house. We had been sick with the flu all weekend and decided that we just needed to walk outside. So I told Olivia to go to her room and put her boots on. She came out with her hat on pushing her baby and said, "Lets go!"

Love this girl!

A Sunny Sunday!

2010-02-28T16:57:00.000-08:00

It took 2 suckers and much corrosion to get Olivia into her church clothes!!

Finally after 2 more suckers, 300 stickers, new crayons, a shamrock glue project, AND 2 hours with her Nursery teacher Sister Cheney..Olivia is all SMILES!!

I'm not Irish but I still love the history of the St. Patrick's Day tradition. This day, March 17th St. Paddy's Day, is a day to recognise the patron saints of Ireland. The green shamrock is a symbol of the Holy Trinity. I'd like to have everyone over to decorate shamrock sugar cookies Friday March 12th at 10am. Who can come? I just need to get an idea so I know how many cookies to make and chairs to get!

May the month of March bring you all good luck and fortune!

Have a wonderful month!

Go Red for Women!

2010-02-17T13:01:00.000-08:00

The month of February is Go Red for Women! The American Heart Association uses February as a month to give more awareness to women's heart health. Here are just a few facts about Cardiovascular disease in women:

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) ranks first among all disease categories in hospital discharges for women.
Nearly 37 percent of all female deaths in America occur from CVD, which includes coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke and other cardiovascular diseases.
In 2005, CVD claimed the lives of 454,613 females; cancer (all forms combined) 268,890.
In 2005, coronary heart disease claimed the lives of 213,572 females compared with 41,116 lives from breast cancer and 67,894 from lung cancer.
At age 40 and older, 23 percent of women compared with 18 percent of men will die within one year after a heart attack.

3 tips to be heart healthy

(1.) get 30 minutes of exercise daily

(2.) make sure your blood pressure is below 120/80. (You can check your blood pressure at almost any store with a pharmacy, or I can check it whenever you would like)

(3.) Get blood work done making sure your cholesterol is under 200. You want high HDL cholesterol (foods high in Omega-3s) which comes from fish, nuts, avocado, etc. LDL cholesterol is bad and should be kept as low as possible.

Please comment or send me email if you have any other questions.

I heart..

2010-02-14T17:30:00.000-08:00

I heart my love bugs Hommy & Olivia!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Love Month

2010-02-10T17:38:00.000-08:00

I love February!! I like all the lovey-dovey pink boxes and flowers. Olivia and I have been making cookies and delivering homemade valentine's cards all month. I've been trying to be really sweet to Greg. I've actually been cooking dinner and putting out in the bedroom. Let's just say love is in the air around Casa de Rosado!! Have a wonderful month!

Olivia

2010-01-24T14:43:00.000-08:00

Olivia is 2!

{Below are some pictures of Olivia being just 1}

{Ok..the next 2 aren't from last year. I couldn't help myself. Olivia was the most beautiful baby}

Here are a few from Olivia's 2nd Birthday!

We had an Elmo party for Olivia's 2nd Birthday. Elmo has been Olivia's favorite this last year. It was really fun. All of my brothers and their wives came. Also both of Greg's parents were there and sister. It was so nice to get both our families together. Since Olivia and Gabe were about the only kids we frosted a muffin for Olivia to blow out her candle. I went to Lattin's Cidermill and bought pies with Tillimook ice cream for the adults. Shannon my SNL decorated my mom's house while I was at work. It looked so nice. We even got Olivia a goldfish which of course, is named Dorothy from Elmo!

Olivia has changed so much from 1 to 2. She is 34 inches tall and weighs 25 lbs. She is really smart and can say so many words. Olivia has tons of energy and is a busy body. She loves to play her musical instruments and sing. Some phrases she says quite often are: "mommy stop" and "don't want to"

We always sing together in the car. I do an opera voice while singing the ABCs with Olivia. Lately when I do it Olivia will say,"Mommy sings too funny."

Olivia is a true Latina! She has a fiery temper and loves to scream. She gets her feelings hurt very easy. Being very emotional has its positives too. Olivia loves to give other children kisses. She'll say, "baby crying, baby sad"

My newest mom trick is when Olivia is behaving badly, I start to fake cry. She will usually stop screaming and come over to me and give me kisses. I love this and hope she never changes. Nothing could make a mother more proud then seeing your child develop those Christ-like qualities of kindness and love.

Thank you to all of Olivia's family and little friends. Olivia loves you so much.

Happy Birthday Olivia!

2010-01-14T14:02:00.000-08:00

Here are a few things we were able to do in 2009!

{I went to Maui with my SNL Kressi}

{above: The Seattle Aquarium below: Pt. Defiance Zoo}

{Ocean Shores}

{We celebrated Olivia's 1st Birthday}

{Seattle Children's Museum}

{We went to Freeport Bahamas}

{We spent 3 days in Ft. Lauderdale Florida}
As we bid farewell to 2009, I wanted to take a minute to reflect on the last year. 2009 was a year of sacrifice for our little family. Greg has spent the entire year doing a clinical rotation for Nuclear Medicine at Virginia Mason Hospital and Overlake Hospital. He leaves at 4:30am and usually gets home between 9-10pm. I know the 3 hours of driving have been hard on him. We decided to stay in Olympia because my mom lives here and watches Olivia while I work in Tacoma to pay our bills. I couldn't have made it through the year without the support of my parents watching Olivia. On the days I work. I leave at 6:30am and usually pick her back up again at 6:30pm. Thanks mom for all your help. Greg will be done soon!!

It's been a really hard year for me. I never thought being a mom would bring so much heartache and challenges. I spent most of this year feeling lonely.

The other challenge this year..I hate admitting.. has been financial woes. I hate that Greg not working stresses me out. I hate that we didn't get to do many things this year together just the two of us. Why should lack of money affect our mood? I think about money (making money or spending money) everyday. I have a secret jealousy of people who can use their credit cards freely without guilt to buy what they want. Money will always be a worry, at least for the next year. I guess I just figured that I would have more money at my age than I do.

Throughout the challenges of this last year though I have seen many miracles in my life. I still somehow find time each week to work out. I even was able to participate in 5 running races. Olivia hasn't been sick at all. Now, twice I took her to the doctor because I thought she HAD to be sick, but she was fine. I usually only get about 6 hours of sleep at night and seem to function ok. Anyone that knows me will agree that these are small tender mercy's the Lord shows me every day.

My only New Year's Resolutions for 2010 are:

(1.) To be a nicer person

(2.) To do service to those less fortunate

(3.) Focus on family.."friends come and go, but family is forever!"

In closing my post I want to deeply thank the Baria Family. Brother & Sister Baria, Kathryn, Jennifer, and Becca. They will never know how their examples of kindness have influenced my life for good, especially this last year! I love you guys!

Happy New Year!

Christmas at Multicare Orthopedics

2010-01-10T15:12:00.000-08:00

{above Lynn Page}

{Below is Teresa. She's half Filipino and looks like she could be a relative}

{Here is lynn Page's daughter Bailey}

Teresa Perry and Lynn Page, two of my coworkers bought Olivia a baby for Christmas present/birthday. This isn't just any baby doll. It's an American Girl Baby with stroller. Sadly, I hadn't heard of the American Girl Dolls until they told me about them. Olivia LOVES her Bitty Baby! The dolls can have any color skin, eye color, and hair color. They bought Olivia the Bitty Latina Baby. She's super cute. We've already had to take many trips to the mall with the Bitty Baby and stroller. I want to thank my work girlies. They are so generous and giving.

Rosado Family Pictures

2010-01-06T09:15:00.000-08:00

We took pictures with the Rosados. They turned out really cute, Thanks Melanie! We haven't taken professional pictures with the Rosado Family since we were married. It was really nice to get pictures together. Pictures are one of the only ways to capture memories from the past.

Now, with that said, I would like family pictures at Kerry Park in Seattle. Also, I love the Washington State University Campus. Both of my brothers and 2 of my SNL have OR will graduate from there. I've been there about a billion times. I love the campus so much and need REAL pictures there. Melanie Willis..Heidi Marshall who's in the mood for a rode trip? Pullman Washington here we come!

2009-12-29T10:28:00.001-08:00

Bananas Anyone?

2009-12-26T14:07:00.001-08:00

gingerbread houses

2009-12-18T16:23:00.001-08:00

I think it's safe to say that Greg and I are NOT "handyman" type people even when it comes making mini houses. We had so much fun decorating our gingerbread house with Kathryn and Jadyn Baria. However, twice since we started gluing with icing, we're had to redo it due to a collapsed roof.

Last week when it got really cold at night the pipes broke above us and our little condo filled with water. We had to move all of our furniture outside and have our place re carpeted.

Even with the house drama aside, we are really enjoying this holiday season! Olivia is at such a fun age. She LOVES candy canes, enjoys singing the Christmas Carols, and reminds us to be of good cheer.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Christmas Traditions

2009-12-12T21:50:00.000-08:00

I had the type of upbringing where freedom of speech was not only expressed but lively discussions were just part of daily living. We fought, we argued our point to the death. One of the only times of year I felt the spirit of giving (instead of contention) is during the Christmas season. I can't remember ever thinking as a child Christmas was about Santa, toys, and presents. Every Christmas my mom decorates the house so beautifully. There are several Christmas Trees around the house, nativity scenes, and candles that smell like Christmas. Every Christmas year my parents prepare gifts, homemade treats, and service projects to help others in need. I can say this time of year brings back so many wonderful memories.

Now with this in mind..what traditions should I do with my own family? I haven't ever taken Olivia to get her picture with Santa or dressed her up like an Elf. Should I though? All around me I hear talk of buying toys for kids. Santa..Santa..Santa!!

What about baby Jesus?

What do all of you think? What things do you do to try and teach your children about the birth of the Savior? Do you have certain traditions that you do each year. I would love to know.

p.s. Is it normal for the big present to be from Santa? If Olivia wakes up and sees the best present already unwrapped, how do I get her to open the lame ones of socks, books, and underwear?

p.s.s. Why does Santa always give the best gift? I don't want Olivia to think Santa gives her much better gifts then her parents do.

The Christmas of 1991

2009-12-12T21:00:00.000-08:00

We went to a Christmas Party at the Millers. It had a theme if you can't tell. Now the incredible awesome thing about having an ugly sweater party is EVERYONE comes to the party in a sweater. When it's 8 degrees out even the people that didn't want to participate came wearing sweaters which made the showing even more hilarious. Greg got totally into it and was soooo bummed he didn't win a prize. I mean he spent $28 of the $30 at Goodwill and Value Village getting his outfit.

Stay tuned for more pictures after I collaborate with people that took pictures at the party.

Olivia with family

2009-12-06T14:02:00.000-08:00

On Saturday Betty, Greg's mom, took Olivia and our nephew Gabe all day. We dropped her off at 8:30am. They spent the entire day together. All day today Olivia keeps calling me Nana Mommy. I know she had a really fun day. Thanks Betty!

Thanksgiving Day

2009-11-28T00:36:00.001-08:00

{Heather Miller & I did the 5k Turkey Trot} The rest are pictures of our family. All of you can probably figure out who is related to who!

Here a a few pictures from Thanksgiving 2009. I'm so thankful for family. What a wonderful blessing to have family nearby. We both have spent many Thanksgivings away from loved ones because it was too far to travel for the day. So this year we were able to visit both my side of the family and Greg's. It was a wonderful day to be thankful!

Back to School

2009-11-19T12:30:00.000-08:00

Today I drove Jadyn, my friend Kathryn's daughter, to school. I think I have serious parental issues. When we were driving her to school I wanted to cry as if I was leaving Olivia there. I love Elementary school so much!! It's one of the best places on earth besides maybe grandma's house and the temple. I have to say though, where were all the art projects in the halls? Isn't the PTA earning money to help incase these young kids' art projects? Don't even get me started on the PTA! I didn't see a classroom full of children's learning decor. What is going on? This is Kindergarten or College? Every Elementary school class should look like the Crayola Company got into a fight with the Elmer's Glue Company. I want to see handmade items hanging from the rafters! I was expecting turkeys for Thanksgiving. What about custom name tags for their desks? Remember when everything got laminated? I love lamination. We have a machine at work that we use for random things. Well, maybe the teachers are focused on math and reading which don't always involve a visual. When we walked into the school the teachers were surprised to see an adult escorting Jadyn to school. They all kept introducing themselves. I said I was Jadyn's Aunt and Olivia and I were excited to see Jadyn's classroom.

Rosado

The case of the mystery thong??

Let it snow!

double the fun..

chicken anyone??

Christmas Part #1

Four..

2 months..

Tis the season!

Dear Santa..

Look Familiar??

True Blue..

White Trash Wednesday

Happy Thanksgiving!

Miss Olivia

Eye-Candy..

3 Brown GoOgle-eyed Lovies!!

Meet Perfection!

They're never too young..

Science Camp

slowly but surely..

2+ to being pregnant

33..

a few summer activities..

a trip to the ocean..

Uncle Cutie comes to visit

a new cousin..

Baby Cruz

Something slithering to see..

Randoms of Liv..

Happy Father's Day!

God does hear and answer prayers..

Meet Daniele

My Birthday Weekend..

Memorial Day Weekend

The End of Preschool until next Fall that is..

Heavenly Fabric

Playdates with Friends

SoCal..

Our baby is a...

Boy vs. Girl??

Easter

St. Patty's Day

I'm pregnant!

February already

Stake Conference 2011

Christmas

*Beast Mode*

Tis the Season..

Schilter Farms

Hoarding: Buried Alive

Christmas is in the air..

my life=waxing

reading??

jj..got to love him

Privacy??

school begins

Summer Randoms

so big but still so small!

Happy Birthday Greg!

The Artesian Well

Dear Winco,

3rd world grill

Baby Baby Baby

Olivia's first make over

The Oregon Coast

swag

Mexico

Senorita Olivia

Chichen Itza..Almost

Bienvenidos!

El Cinco de Mayo

Happy Mother's Day!

FINALLY she's potty trained..sort of?

March

Vancouver British Columbia

Casa Roasdo

April is Coming!

Sunriver Oregon

Walking the Baby

Beast Mode