Saturday, June 19, 2010

Springing Into Summer











So sorry to have been neglecting this blog. Life happened and keeps happening. We are a very busy family. Although our philosophy is to not turn into one of those families who ends up raising their children in the car, we do seem to be out and about a lot more lately. An end to diapers and the tapering off of naps gives us more opportunities to explore our city and spend time with friends. So here's our past few months' milestones and memories in a nutshell.








Gabriel had a wonderful spring as he found a sport that fits his athletic abilities (he has always been athletically inclined) and his personality. He spent 3 months participating in track and field with the Ventura Tigres. With 3 practices a week and all day Saturday meets it was a big commitment for our family but WELL worth it. He had wonderful coaches who emphasized good sportsmanship and self improvement. Gabriel especially excelled at the high jump- great form and grasshopper legs. He is by nature not a very competitive person, but he loves to run and once he discovered his strengths he flew both in spirit and athleticism. We are very proud of him and his efforts.








Julian elected to play spring soccer with AYSO. He loves sports even though his small stature seems to limit him sometimes around his peers. He became very good at passing the ball to his best friend on the team and said to us, "I don't mind being Theo's (the best friend) wing man. Theo makes the goals then he comes back and we both do the victory dance together." Julian is always able to see things in a positive light and continues to be a compassionate person and tries to include everyone. He still won't cut his hair. A couple weeks ago he split his head open and was more concerned that the doctor might have to cut his hair to put the staples in than the injury itself. We call him our "little Samson".








Rachel is busy growing up way too quickly. She has so many things to say and talks almost non-stop when she's awake. She doesn't really care if no one is listening. I guess it's a "girl thing" because the boys never had to utter every thought that came into their brains. She is feisty and fun, stubborn and creative, industrious and challenging. She loves to "help" and loves to boss her brothers around. Her favorite TV show is the old "Rescue Heroes" cartoon and she runs around way too early in the morning yelling, "Rescue Heroes to headquarters! We're scrapping the mission." We all crack up when she takes things so literally. Yesterday I told her, "I taped something for you on TV." She started frantically searching around the TV for something. I asked her what she was looking for. "You wrapped me some presents for my birfday? Where are they?" Apparently she thought I had taped presents to the TV or something. The boys thought that was very funny. She was not amused.








This summer we have planned 2 camping trips and a few half day camps here and there (art, surf camp, and Vacation Bible Camp). Otherwise we are going to slow down and see where the summer days take us.... even if it's just to the kiddie pool in the backyard.

Friday, January 01, 2010

Holidays and Happenings

Photos: Gabriel participating in a holiday skit at the Olivas Adobe, Rachel and Grandpa in the park, Rachel being a big girl on her bike, Rachel reading with Grandma Mary, the kids and Santa... Gabriel was quite nervous and so serious about talking with Santa.