Peaceful Easy Weekend

Sometimes you just have to get away. That is exactly what we did. Two weekends ago we packed our stuff and took off. Steven arranged for a much needed weekend of rest and fun family time. We headed down to Newport Beach and stayed in a hotel and enjoyed the break from the chaos we call life. We ate out, shopped and enjoyed my absolute most favorite spot in the world, the sparkling sandy shore. What an amazing treat! This is not the norm, vacationing on a whim, but I certainly could get used to it. Thanks Steven for choosing to provide, protect, and love unconditionally your crazy little family. Oh by the way. I still can't get over the fact that it is JANUARY!!! and we are playing at the beach. I LOVE IT!!! We can never leave this beautiful place! Sorry Tricia!!! The Lambson Family is welcome any time to enjoy Southern California with us!

Belated Birthday Post

On December 22nd our little Calvinator ( his nickname since birth, I think originally given by my Dad, silly I know, but he was a gigantic baby!) turned three! Our dear son has been a huge blessing in our lives. It is amazing once you have a second child how the enormous amounts of love you have in your heart for your first just simply doubles. Calvin has made for some interesting times here in the Zuniga household and has made this journey as a family even sweeter. Certainly never a dull moment to be had with him around. He keeps me on my toes and my mind sharp. Although staying one step ahead of him can be challenging at times I think his quick thinking and curiosity is what I like most about his character. Happy (belated) birthday Cal!

Ringing in 2009

We celebrated the last day of 2008 at my sister Gretchens new home. The kids and I bundled up and headed over for her first new years/ house warming party. Steven had to work the closing shift that night so the kids and I decided to try our hardest to make it to midnight.

Auntie Sarah, Auntie Sammy and Calvin

We all enjoyed a huge homemade mexican food spread, (thanks Gretch!) and had our fill of fun, games and conversation with all of the guests.

Calvin, Mommy and Jaclynn


The good old Andrews clan
Me, Mom, Gretchen, Sarah and Dad

We had a fun night and tried our best but by 10:30 PM,

Auntie Gretchie, Sydney, Jaclynn and Auntie Gretchie's new puppy Charlie

we had one down and two more following closely behind.

So we said goodbye to the old 2008 about an hour too soon. But ended it with family, friends and a fun night to remember.

Family Fun

Every Year at this time Steven has the opportunity to bring his family to the Disney Holiday Party. It is always a crazy, fun night because we start out after the kids bed times. The party starts at 8PM and goes until 12:30AM. Basically a total free for all, running around the park, riding exciting rides, eating churros and Ice cream. We had a wonderful time as a family. It is fun to let loose and just enjoy! My favorite part of the whole night is the parade. We always bring a blanket and make a cozy little spot along the parade route. We snuggle together and eat treats and enjoy the magic Disney provides. Lots of fun for the kids and those who are kids at heart.

Super Special Surprise Day

Totally silly name, I know, but our family coined this phrase for the time Steven takes us on a surprise adventure. My sweet Husband loves to spoil his family and surprise us with new exciting things all the time. The adventures are random and unexpected and we are always thrilled when we hear, "It's super special surprise day!" God has gifted this man with a huge heart for gift giving and we are the ecstatic recipients!
So yesterday, once again we heard those exciting words and were off on a new adventure. Usually Jaclynn is included, but this time she had to stay with Grandma and Papa (Steven's parents). We were out the door at 7:30am, forty-eight degrees, frost on the roof tops (finally feels like were in the right season), semi- sleeping children, and four tickets to see the live stage show and new Disney/Pixar 3D movie Bolt at the El Capitan Theater in Hollywood!
It was great! The movie was hilarious and clever. Totally entertaining for the kids and the adults. This was the first time the kids and I had been to the El Capitan. Steven grew up going to see all the new Disney movies and stage shows with his parents and siblings and wants to continue this tradition with our family. We are definitely not opposed, and look forward to the next "Super special surprise day" at the El Capitan Theater. In all my own excitement about my first trip there, I completely forgot to take any pictures of our adventure. Oh well, there is always next time! Hint, hint! (steven :) ) Thanks Babe!

Who knew Steven had connections like this!

A day at the beach

Yes it is the end of November and we are still enjoying a walk on the beach. I have never appreciated living in Southern California more than I have this past year. I have always loved the beach. I could be there everyday. I would love to live close enough that we could walk the beach every morning. 

Yesterday the shore couldn't have been more beautiful. The sun was glistening off the shallow water left by the low tide. I was overwhelmed with joy and thankfulness that I could be there with all of my kids just simply enjoying the seaside. It was therapeutic. I was also thankful to here little shouts of glee from the kids. They too have a love for Gods gorgeous creation. One at a time they would run past me and say "I like the beach Mom" or "I love the sea!".

My grandmother "Situ" was able to join us along with "Lu Lu" my uncles dog. We had a wonderful time making memories just walking along.