Conference Brunch

One of the best things about Conference weekend is getting to stay home with my family. Bri is home (usually), the girls are home, and I don't have to wrestle with Abram during tradtional church services AND I still feel spiritually uplifted. All from the comfort and convenience of my own home. Of course we stay in our PJ's! All the while hoping no one knocks on the door.

Every Conference we make cinnamon rolls (something I picked up from one of Amy's YW leaders in Laguna Niguel). It has really turned into a little tradition over the last few years and the girls really look forward to it. So we stayed true and made them again.

But this time, I decided to make a little brunch between Conference sessions. I LOVED it and the girls helped make it special with the table settings. I am so grateful they buy into my ridiculous need to make a memory of practically everything. I love hearing different people say, "When I was little, we always did such and such," or "I can always remember my mom doing this or that." I get carried away, I know. I can't help it. There will come a time when memories are all we have and I want tons and tons to sift through.

Indentured

I told you it was just a matter of time before you would see the nitty gritty of Hulse life. So this is what happens when you hurt someone else's body (ie, pushing, hitting, pinching, etc...). Mom or Dad assigns a number of tile squares to scrub, depending on the severity of the incident and whether you whine about it. I know, Cinderella, Cinderella!

There is a long list of undesirable chores to match such childhood crimes. The least desirable... scrubbing the toilets for lying (all of them). At least I think that's the worst, I mean, I totally hate doing it. However, Santi did whisper in my ear not long ago, "I kinda like that one." Hmmm. Is that reverse psychology or does she really like it? Santi is definately the workhorse when it comes to housecleaning. She just pushes through it. Marin seems to think she can get out of it depending on the elocution of her excuses.

To save Marin further embarrassment, I am thankful to say that she really is a good kid. She's a great person! It isn't often she has to do extra chores for poor behavior. I think she's been a magnificent example to her siblings in so many ways. I kinda wish I was more like her when I was a kid. I'd be so much further along in my life and understanding of the gospel.

So these experiences will either help her rethink poor choices, or help her really hate housework. I'm hoping for the first one.

Bright, Shining Day

Jason and Melinda brought home their son, Isaiah this week. We have all been praying for him to join their lives for a really long time. So grateful is everyone, that there was hardly a dry eye upon hearing the news. Just a lot of excitement and rejoicing. Lucky Marin got to hold him, something she won't forget for a while. When we left their house, she said, "This is what we've been praying for."

We've been friends with Jason and Melinda for over 10 years. They were in our first married student ward up at BYU. We lost touch for a couple years, and then when we moved down here, one of the first people we saw at church was Jason! We are grateful for them in our lives. They are the kind of people who are so much better than you, but never make you feel so.

Marin has a particular connection with them because Melinda held her as a baby and also spoke at her baptism last year (Marin chose Melinda over me as one of the speakers). Jason and Melinda have loved our children and have hung out with us even after we've all shown our true colors. Thank heaven!

Some pretty miraculous details I don't want to forget: Jason was set apart as the bishop of our old ward (Mission 2) last Sunday (9/28). Isaiah was born the next day (on Brian's birthday 9/29 and they brought him home on my birthday 10/1).

So many things are just beginning for this family, I'm just so happy! I teased Melinda that she didn't get even one Sunday of sitting quietly at church while her husband served as bishop. Not one. And as I've learned recently, that means no trading off the baby at any point. No worries though, I don't know anyone more capable. She's been a great mom for a really long time.

The Sweetness

I know I'm running the risk of giving you a skewed perspective of our real family life by posting entires like these. But sometimes truth is better than fiction (And other times, I go to the fictional happy place in my mind to keep from crying).

Last week, Santi came home from school with these tiny flowers. It's so Santi to see the beauty among the weeds. First she showed them to me and then put them in this little glass bowl. She was so happy to display them for me in the kitchen, "Now you have something pretty to look at while you make us dinner." Yes I did. If only flowers could last a little longer. Nothing gold can stay, I suppose.

Marin took the initiative to make lunches for herself and for Daddy. Probably because she hears me say, "Ah man, I've gotta make your lunches before I go to bed tonight." She did a good job. Packaged ever so nicely, complete with ice pack, was this well balanced meal for her Dad. She even included a note which read:

I love you. Be a good man. From, Rin."

Brian is always a good sport. Not only did he take the lunch to work, he ate it. He enjoyed a carton of milk, an apple, and a hasbrown (left in frozen state), cheese, and bacon sandwich. It's very possible that Marin watches a little too much Iron Chef America.

It's true that the girls enjoy reading about themselves on the blog, especially when it is something so complimentary. It is also true that when they are throwing a fit and I reach for my camera, fear strikes through them like a bolt of lightening to the idea that the episode be posted on the blog. I doubt this is good parenting. We're all entitled to a little privacy when we are less than our wonderful selves. Between you and me though, I'm sure something juicy will come up soon. Wait for it.

The Libra Peace Accord

What is The Libra Peace Accord? The LPA is a day designated by our family three years ago to collectively celebrate Brian's and my birthday. His is on September 29th and mine is October 1st. So we celebrate it on the day in between, which makes it so much easier for the kiddos and so much more fun for both Bri and me. The name only reflects our shameless attempts to be clever. I know, not so much.

Look at cute Brian? I hear never ending stories of many a girls falling under the Brian Hulse spell. I'm sure I would've had a crush on him too. We always crack up at the picture up on the right. How much does that look like Santi at the same age? More supporting evidence that she is her Daddy's daughter.

And I'm not sure what's going on with my weird-shaped noggin below. Fortunately, I grew hair. I love this picture with me and my great grandpa sporting our cowboy hats. I must've been a little Texan even then. Who knew?

The real congrats today should go to our mothers, both of whom had really fat babies. Which, taking our kids into account, is hereditary I think. (For the record, Brian was much bigger than I. Again, information that would've been helpful before my wedding. Where were you on that one, Renee?)

It must be nice for our moms to look back on these pictures and be so grateful for the wonderful, attractive, and particularly humble people we've become.

You're welcome.

Lovies.

Shape Up

I recently purchased this Tupperware Shape-O-Ball on Ebay. It was nostalgiac for both Brian and me. Considering Abram loves to play ball and loves to take things apart, I thought this was the perfect combination.

Look how happy he is with his new toy!

The shapes didn't seem to go in no matter how hard he banged them against the ball. What the heck?

Poor Abram. After about 7 minutes of ownership, he resigned himself to the idea that he and the Shape-O-Ball may not get along quite as well as expected. He returned to his oldest and most trusted friend, his blanket (or "da-ket" as he likes to call it). Daket will never make him work for its affection.

What a stupid toy, mother.

Although, I have seen him kick it around a few times. Pretty hard too. Perhaps it's too soon to forgive and forget. Don't hold grudges son.

So it begins...

Fall has officically begun. And so has the new season of afterschool activities. I'm trying to play it smart and limit the girls to only a couple a piece. Heaven forbid they make it easy and participate in the same activities. It's not so bad, they're both in piano which is non-negotiable but fortunately they're both excited about it. Piano starts tomorrow and it's the first time they're going to a studio. We'll see how that goes.

Santi has reunited with her great love of dance. She has advanced to another level which is great because the class size is very small (10 girls). It is more intense though, she practices a little over two hours. Good thing she loves it. Currently she is taking ballet, tap, and jazz. It's obvious that ballet is her favorite because she's too enthralled to see if I'm watching. It's a good thing. With Abram running around, I'm probably not. Oops.

Again, those strong Hulse legs come in handy. That girl can leap and jump like nobody's business. I can't believe how strong she is. She's already thinking about the big show. I'm thinking we still have 8 months to go. Brian can't believe that our little Bruiser has blossomed into this graceful ballerina. When we go through her baby book and recount all of the sneaky, mischevious things she did, it's hardly the same girl. I just love it.

Marin's pull buoy and tried and true goggles.

Last Saturday, Marin tried out for the local USA Swim team. She did a great job and made the Green team. Apparently the senior teams are: Gold and Bronze and the junior teams are Black, Green, Red, and White. As soon as I told her she made the Green team, she asked, "What do I have to do to make the Black team?" Wow, this girl just won't stop. I was sure to let her know she was the youngest one on Green. But she has great examples. Her friend Shaine and a girl her age are on Bronze team, so she knows it can be done. We'll keep you posted.

Tuesday was her first workout with USA Swim. Oh...My...Gosh! First of all, they swim for 2 hours straight. Secondly, in addition to warm up, drills, and cool down, she swam 600 meters of Butterfly drills: 200 full fly, 200 dolphin kick, 200 tripple drills (rotating right arm, left, and both). Considering she's never trained in Butterfly (she's never officially learned it), I sat there unsure whether she could do it. I'm not sure how I could feel such heartache for her and so proud of her at the same time. She never quit but it was strenuous and I could tell she was struggling. By cool down, her little body had hardly anything left. For the first time since she started swimming, she pulled her head up to get extra breath. I just couldn't help but admire this little eight-year-old girl who will allow nothing to stand in her way. Now only if we could transfer that passion to other things (say a clean room or even just her backpack?).

Move Over Orson Welles...

...there's a new radio star in town.

On thursday, Marin tried out to be a host on Rattler Radio, her school's morning radio show. And she made it! She was a little nervous and rewrote her copy several times but pulled it all together and earned herself a spot with a few other friends. I'm so happy for her because she REALLY wanted this. She even decided to forego Chess team and Choir tryouts for it. The girls have to limit their extra curriculars to avoid burnout (for me, and them).

She will broadcast every morning for a week at a time. All the kids in the club rotate weeks. Now every few weeks she will be delivering announcements. Santi was beaming with pride and telling everyone she passed in the halls, "My sister's on the radio." Apparently Marin already has a listening base among Santi's first grade classmates. Way to rally, Santi!

And did I mention Marin has to be there before 7:30am to prepare? We're more of the 7:55 club since the tardy bell rings at 8:05am. Not overjoyed about that one, but it's only every few weeks, right?

So although I don't think she'll deliver anything as nefarious as a "War of the Worlds" prank, I'm wondering what uncensored improvisation may be heard over the elementary school radio waves. Please, please, please don't let me see the school on my caller ID.

An Ideal Husband

What does a picture of my feet have to do with my husband? Everything.

Friday I had a hair appointment that I was so looking forward to. I really needed a break and although you wouldn't think a bustling salon is a place of peace and quiet, I still consider it a respite from the sounds of a bustling home.

Friday morning Brian handed me a gift card to the salon and wanted me to have a good time and said that there was a little extra on the card if I wanted to buy product or anything else. That was so sweet. I was counting down the hours and I just prayed that Brian would show up on time to take the kids so I wouldn't be late. Remarkably, I left without many grumblings from the kiddos.

Imagine even more of my shock when my stylist Erica said that my husband had come in the day before to buy a gift card and schedule a surprise massage and pedicure. What? Are you sure? All the ladies at the salon were waiting for me because they knew I would be floored. He was smart to get the gift card because my mind raced through all the excuses as to why I couldn't fit all of this time into my schedule. I couldn't back out, he's already paid for it. So I decided just to let go and enjoy myself.

I had such a nice and relaxing time at the salon. But the best part of my evening was coming back home to my husband reading quietly on the couch with the children fast asleep. It couldn't have been planned better.

So whether there is truly an ideal husband, I'm not sure. I certainly know that my husband isn't married to the ideal wife. But I think there are times when we have ideal moments. And I do know there is no other man more perfect (what I mean is more patient) for me.

Picture Perfect

Today was Fall Picture Day at school. The girls were very excited to plan their outfits and hair accessories. I was surprised that Santi didn't choose her new pink and brown striped dress she wore on the first day. Instead she chose an old favorite. Marin had picked out this dress while school shopping and was happy to wear it today.

They both went to the Salon yesterday where they were treated to a shampoo, cut, and style. Girls after my own heart. While Santi's head was in the shampoo bowl she looked up and said to me, "I love Aveda." Me too. I also love how at this Aveda Concepts Salon (the only one in the RGV), they have a "Rising Stars" program. While in the program, licensed stylists learn Aveda concepts and only charge $10 for a child's cut. It's such a great deal! And the girls always feel so special. It's also given them the opportunity to learn Salon ettiquette, like describing the style they want, tipping, and most importantly, not playing with the up/down pedals on the chairs.

Abram's another story. Completely irresistable to him. He could care less about "the science of pure flower and plant essences" that is Aveda. He wants that stinking chair. And to flirt with the stylists.

Study Guide

Even though there is homework to be done, the show must go on. Especially if the girls have any friends over. Which was the case captured in the following video.



He's moved on from placing the cheerios in the Cheerios book to flicking them randomly around the room. The girls are so patient with him. I have to admit that this is the hardest part of my day, by far. Abram gets fussy right before the girls get home from school. It's like he's anticipating their return and it just can't come quick enough. The girls have a snack while Abram gets much needed sister attention. They try to buckle down and do homework while distractor boy works his magic.
I'm trying to get dinner made and on the table so warfare doesn't break out after the patience is gone. If Abram feels rejected by the girls, he tends to hang on my leg while I'm cooking. This makes it a lot easier a task. Most days we try to hold out for Dad so we can all eat together (Waiting for Godot, anyone?). So yah, if all of the children survive this two to three-hour span of time, I call it a monumental success.

Mission: Organization

Thank you Happy Helperton! I always start a new school year hoping to organize everything so the house runs more smoothly. Meal menus, baskets for sorted laundry, cubbies for the kids school clothes set out for each day. I have beautiful intentions. Nations (well at least a small commune) could be built on my imagined skills to organize and execute. Don't be impressed, it usually breaks down all too soon.

In pursuit of peace and calm in the home, I've taken it upon myself to move the girls' stuff out of a closet downstairs and move in our office stuff. This accomplishes two goals: 1) remove any trace of the children's things from the front hallway of our house (you know, the first thing people see as they walk in) and 2) get our important papers under lock and key, not from intruders, but from our helpful son who enjoys emptying our hanging files and searching out all sorts of trouble. Trouble like the bucket (with tight-fitting lid) of fun foam shapes advertised as, "more than 1000 pieces" all over the floor, again. Permanent markers the girls swear on each others' lives they didn't leave out.

His royal helpfulness has reached new heights now that he has figured out how to crawl on top of the desk (pictured above. Notice that smug look of triumph on his face. "I am Abram. You will never beat me woman."). I had met my match. I was defeated. I admitted it. I let everything sit exactly how he left it for like 2 weeks. No one even walked in there and the girls found other places to do homework.

Now I've decided to take up my sword and again defend my right to find my mail, postage stamps, notes home from school, a pencil, and sit at a desk that is utilized for its purpose and not as a catchall for things to keep from Abram's reach, etc... I will be victorious, even if for a small moment... like a day (at the very least). I so need it.

The SPLITS

Sunday our stake split and two Stake Presidencies were called. So there will be lots and lots of shuffling around of callings throughout our wards. Already a few people from our ward have been called to Stake leadership positions. Bri will be busy filling those vacant ward callings. Gone are the days that you could rest easy when the Bishop called because you already had a calling. Hello to the days where you're called to two or three. Sometimes, those are the best anyway. We couldn't be happier that our former Bishop, Brice Chandler is our new Stake President and Dr. Rick Young (our dentist and tooth idol next to Unkie Cam) is his first counselor. We certainly are the lucky ones!

Here is a picture of Bri with a book of testimonies from the Youth and Primary children of our ward. Also included are pictures of our ward during our first year. That picture on the front is the first Sunday we met as a ward, a year ago almost to the day. Bri presented this book to Elder Oaks on Saturday. The children were so excited to write their testimonies knowing that an Apostle of Jesus Christ would be reading it and thinking only of them for even a moment. That is an extremely big deal for the youth down here. They seized the opportunity knowing it may not come again too soon. I'm so grateful.

Santi's picture and testimony follow:

Although it looks as though Elder Oaks has Mickey Mouse ears, Santi is adamant that the gray puffs are the only parts of hair he has left on his head. She insisted that he wouldn't want to be drawn bald. Nice observation.

Marin's entries follow. The girls were sitting at the same table while working on their entries. I noticed some similarities between them so we decided to take a break and go one at a time. It seemed to help them focus on what was in their own hearts. Either way, Marin chose the bald look for Elder Oaks with Dad and Brother Guerrero sitting on the stand.

Abram sat out on the book deal. He made his presence known during Stake Conference however. Not too much. But it sure was fun (for me and for our ward members) to see Brian running after him for a change. I cannot count how many people shared those sentiments after the meeting. The funniest moment for me was when a little girl (about 3 years old) kept coming up to Abram and giving him a hug and treating him like a baby. He looked up into her face and pushed her arm away. He kept pushing her away from him saying, "Go. go. go." He was not flattered by her attention and wanted nothing to do with her. I kinda liked it.

The meeting was wonderful of course and Elder Oaks was cracking the place up. I think we were all delighted that after delivering important information and a spiritual message, he reminded us to be of good cheer and to enjoy our blessings. One thing he did say to the youth: "Don't be stupid!" He said he wouldn't go down the long list of things that are stupid to do, but that parents and leaders should feel free to take liberties and say, "Elder Oaks said, 'Don't be stupid,' which includes..." I'll take that to heart.

I was acutally surprised how much Marin and Santi were paying attention to his talk. Afterward, we got to shake his hand and the girls went up for a second (and I'm pretty sure a third) time. According to Marin (who was the spokesperson for the Hulse Sisters), the converstaion went like so:

Marin: Elder Oaks, would you like to bear your testimony?

Elder Oaks: I just did, in my talk. Didn't you hear it?

Marin: I mean, my testimony. Did you hear mine?

Elder Oaks: (probably trying to move on and shake other hands) No, but I have to walk so you can share it with me while we walk.

Marin: I mean, it's in the binder. Our testimonies (pointing to Santi) are in there.

Elder Oaks: OH! (it suddenly becoming clearer) Yes, I have it. I will read your testimony. Thank you.

Marin: Ok, well, bye!

The End.

Grandparents Day

Friday was Grandparents Day at school. Seeing as how all of the grandparents live far out of state and the girls have missed out for the last 3 years, they decided to make their own rules. Marin and Santi convinced Sister Mills, from our ward, to adopt them as her grandkids. It didn't take a lot of convincing, just a phone call. Marin made the call while Santi looked on anxiously (like she was gonna say no?).

It was a cute day. Sister Mills and I had donuts and juice in the cafeteria and then we were able to visit the girls in their classrooms. They were delighted to have her visit and I'm pretty sure I saw a little showing off too. The eager hand raising to answer questions and the follow up glance back at us to see if we were watching. Santi made her a sweet Grandparents Day card which she truly loved. She kept looking at it throughout her visit.

Marin's class was in the science lab at the time and Sister Mills said the teacher commented on how much he enjoyed Marin in his class and what a bright student she is. And then in her very sweet voice, "And he didn't go up to any of the other grandparents, either. I was so proud of my little granddaughter." I had to leave the room during this exchange because Abram wouldn't stop yelling Marin's name and waving. The kids weren't paying attention to class and couldn't help giggling at him, which he FULLY enjoyed. Kicked out of class on his first day. Tsk, tsk.

When I took Sister Mills home, she handed me this tray of brownies. You just don't understand. Her brownies are famous throughout our stake. And the recipe is highly coveted but highly secret. I considered keeping her gift to myself, but we had it for dessert that night, and the next, and while the kids were at a birthday party on Saturday...a couple times. Brian said, "I know why everyone loves her brownies, they taste like Christmas fudge." So, imagine....mmmm.....



Abram liked playing at her house for a little while. He rolled around on her carpet and ran his cars under her sofa and chairs. He also ate like 10 of these dainty vanilla mints she had in a very ornate container. He popped those things like they were cheerios. She just laughed everytime he put one in his mouth and made a little crunching noise. He compensated by calling her by her first name, Lila. Or "Yiya" by his pronunciation. She was beside herself. She would have been even more so if she had heard him the whole way home, "Yiya!, Yiya! Yiya!"

Viva El Capitán!

"El capitán de Sempra GNL inauguró el jueves en Baja California la primera terminal de importación de gas natural que tendrá toda América en su costa del Pacífico. Su costo fue de 975 millones de dólares y atenderá al noroeste mexicano y suroeste estadounidense."

How cool do you have to be to get a cartoon makeover in the Reforma, otherwise known as the most widely read national newspaper in Mexico? Pretty freakin' cool. Which is why Big Finn just got bigger. Is he seriously surfing on that LNG tanker? Chaw!

If you want to check out the interview heard 'round the world (well, our world at least), click on the link below. And doesn't the Finner look ever so smart?

Aye, Aye, Aye! Caliente!

http://mms.tveyes.com/Expand.asp?aln=2329473&id=12700&dt=08/29/2008+06:07:37+PM

Decisions, decisions. Do I continue to call Bri's dad Big Finn or switch to El Capitán? Or maybe I'll just change it up every now and then. Man, I keep thinking I want one of those cartoon makeovers! And not those cheesy ones you get from Sea World. I don't know, it seems a tough road to make yourself an official "Captain of Industry." Hats off to Big Finn, el capitán de Sempra! VIVA!

Annoying

We asked the girls to pick up the playroom, which of course was met with hesitancy and a well executed manifesto that no one should have to forego her dreams and work as a servant in her own house (Marin). I agreed. But you're still picking up the playroom even while you deliver your oration.

So as tensions were running high in the playroom, we overheard an argument the girls were having and let it play out until neither Bri nor I could see an end to the words, words, words. We asked Marin to stop talking (very difficult) and get to work. She quipped that she couldn't possibly work alongside Santi who was "annoying" her. "She is just annoying. She's annoying me."

Bri responded, "And who else?" As in, "Who else is being annoying?"

Marin said, "Well she's annoying you guys. And probably Abram too."

We laughed and explained why we thought it was funny. "Now get back to work." It became a divide and conquer strategy of them working seperately. Once she figures out how to unite the proletariats we might have a problem.

Marin can talk a fast game. Too bad for her, being too smart for your own good doesn't get you out of being an indentured servant here in the Hulse house. Well, at the very least we try not to let her talk circles around us. Suggestions?

Temple Trip

Saturday was our ward Temple Trip. And although a Temple Trip is significant in of itself, this one was particularly memorable because the Cerda Family in our ward was sealed together for eternity. Many ward members were there to see their triumphant moment, I'm so grateful we were able to make it.

I felt there were a few deterrents from going: we'd only been back a week and a half from our long trip to Cali; it was at the end of the first week of school; what to do with the children; and four hours each way (with kids) is usually going to be a deterrent. But it always seems a miracle pulls us through and we find ourselves in the most peaceful place on Earth. A bonus blessing is that our children do understand the inconvenience of getting to the Temple and are realizing that it truly is an amazing place, since Dad and I are willing to go through the trouble just to be there. Big thanks to Forest and Heather Peterson and fam for keeping our kids. They didn't want to come home since we don't often bake cupcakes, make homemade frosting, find cool secret passages to the neighborhood pool, or grill a yummy lunch all in one day. They've totally and unfairly raised the bar here.

There was a moment in the Temple when the Cerda family stood in the sealing room and gazed into the mirror (which I'm sure they do in almost every sealing). It was almost more poetic that I saw them from behind, all dressed in white, embracing each other, and peering into their future, progressing together as a family. I won't forget it.

While in the Temple, I was waiting for Brian (the story of my life) and had some time to reflect on our own family. Having returned from our three-week stay in California, I expected to be homesick all over again. Although there will always be a part of me that longs to be near our family, I don't think I yearn for the things I loved about California the way I used to. I'm actually feeling settled and comforted in knowing that there's nothing like being where the Lord wants you to be. I truly don't want to be anywhere contrary to His plan for us. I didn't feel this way a year ago. A year ago, I thought it was time to go. We came down here initially for Brian's job which was supposed to last for two years. It's been three. But last year, when Brian was called as the Bishop, our purpose became much clearer. Any success he's had at work is attributed to the blessings from his serving as the Bishop.

We are learning the lesson that God and family come first. It transcends any scenic landscape, luxury, and certainly every pretense. I don't think we'd be happy otherwise. Life on the border is not perfect (business etiquette and customer service would be nice), but with all of these opportunities to serve, how can I complain? Had we been elsewhere, I doubt either of us would've had the opportunities to serve in the callings we have. I like to joke with Bri that I had to go where they would use me because there was nobody else to do the job. And yet we find ourselves amidst the most dedicated Saints I've ever known.

I'm learning to depend on the Lord, demand less of others, I can count on loving support at any moment from our ward family, and there is a very real exchange of giving and welcoming service. The children are learning what it means to work hard and to sacrifice; principles I hope they'll have throughout their lives. And the best news I've heard in a while? Our stake is splitting, Elder Oaks will be presiding, and Brian just received blueprints for the addition to our little ward house. What a magnificent time to be here. I really want to believe, while planning and preparing this area for such an explosion, that the Lord had our family in mind.

Meanwhile, the floor is filthy (thanks Brummy), the laundry is backed up, the office and garage are unorganized again, etc... And thus we see (to borrow from Mormon in his abridgements) my need to accentuate the positive. Ahh, Texas, you're not so bad.

Long Beach, Aegean Cafe, and a little extra

playing a little catch up in my posting...
It had been quite a long time since we have seen Andrew and Jessie. As you can see from the photo above, Abram settled right in.

An even deeper sleep.

Aunt Jessie is such a cool aunt. The girls always have such fun with her. She so easily comes up with exciting yet simple things for them to do. I love her.

After our time with A&J, we took the children to the Aegean Cafe. This place has some sweet significance for us. When I went to meet Bri's family for the first time (1997), we had dinner one night at AC in Laguna Beach. So whenever we've gone back, Bri and I like to recall those exciting and nervous sparks that were flying between us. It also happens to be the first time I fell in love with all of Bri's sisters. I wanted so much to have good relationships with them since Brian held them in such high regard.

The belly dancer was one of Santi's favorites of the night as she was studying her dancing. Both of the girls were like, "Why is she dressed so immodestly?" A brief lesson on world cultures followed.

First Day Jitters

School started Monday August 25th, just a few days after we got back from California. I assumed the first day jitters would come from being a little nervous about a new school year. There was none of that though. Luckily.

The jitters were a result of the outbreak of mosquitos in our area bringing with them all of the fears of Malaria, West Nile and any other doomsday disease they may spread about. Since Hurricane Dolly and subsequent storms there's a surplus of standing water in the county. Yah, gross. It's acutally been so bad that the children didn't have recess or PE outside for the first week. Thankfully, our area has been spared flooding. That wouldn't have been a great welcome home present.

So, in an effort to get the traditional first day of school photo in front of the house, I made the girls brave the swarms of mosquitos. Which accounts for coerced smiles and Santi's flinching. Bug spray all around.
Having already met their teachers a few nights before, the girls were more than happy to walk into school on their own. Bri and I had to hustle just to catch up. It turns out Marin had walked Santi to class to make sure she remembered where to go and then went to class herself. When we finally did catch up, they were kind enough to humor us with a photo outside each of their classrooms. I hope next year they'll still need us to walk with them to school, at least. Jeez.


As Bri and I walked home with Abram, we noticed these gigantic mushrooms. With all the rainfall everything grows so quickly. A crazy part of subtropical life I guess. Abram thought they were funny.

Abram struggled the first week of school. He didn't much like the idea of the girls going somewhere without him. The first few days he stood by the front door and peered out the windows. The most heartbreaking part? He kept calling Santi's name, "Tanti, Tanti." When it was time to get them, his eyes lit up and he started kicking his legs and made his way straight for the door. After we pick up the girls, he gets his face right into theirs and just smiles, hoping they've missed him just as much. I love that they do.

Homework time at the table is such an event also. The girls lay out all their things and he tries to climb into his booster. We've discovered that giving him his own "homework" works best. Puzzles and his Cheerios books have been big hits so far. With a snack of course. It's hard work you know.

Blessed Day

One of the best things about being in California this summer was going to baby Maia's blessing. Her gown and accessories were so sweet. We were so grateful that the timing was perfect. Brian flew in the night before and was able to be there too. That is so unlike us. We usually miss everything. Alas.

The doting parents with their sweet baby girl. Joe gave a beautiful blessing. It was so much fun to sit at church with our entire family. I had some fun moments with Sadie Pants. I kept giving her snacks (I'll do anything to win the kids' affection) and toward the end of the meeting, she handed some pretzels back to me. I opened my mouth to eat them and she said, "No, they're dirty. They fell on the floor." So I ate them anyway. Yes, VERY gross, but she thought it was hilarious and I said I'd do anything to win her affection. I'm pretty sure she just knows that her Aunt Xoch is gross. Ah well.


Girls, girls, girls. We certainly don't hurt for a representation of girls in this family. They rule the roost.

The Hulses All (Santi, Sadie, Abram, Marin, and Kimball)! How cute is this picture with all the Hulse cousins (Bri and Cam's kids)? Such a fair group of kiddos if I've ever seen one. Although you can't tell from this photo, Abram really is almost a year older than Kimball.

Three wild and crazy guys. I love this photo.

Big Time. Check out how our family is growing. And there are two little babies on the way (thanks to Als and Laura). I just love this photo because it shows the chaos before a posed picture. I can just hear Big Finn saying, "Now, ah, Bri you stand there... and...ah...Santi, Santi, take your hand out of your mouth....ah...alright...everybody smile. Sadie, Sadie, look over here. Say...ah...Cameron can you make Kimball look over here?" Meanwhile we're all chatting and I don't even know where my kids are. It was really fun. Next time we should hire an events coordinator and give old Finner a break.

Joe and Emmers' ward house was right down the street from Marin's old preschool. Driving by brought back memories of my three-year-old Marin. She's grown up so much. We can't help but relish moments like these, when we get to retell stories from their babyhood while we all drive in the car.

Renee and some of her family that we hadn't seen in too long. It was great for Gina to come. Even though they had a long drawn-out day at Sea World the day before, they made the trek from Glendora since they heard we were actually in town. So nice.

It was so great to see Renee's aunt, Maxine. I don't think I've seen her since Gina and Janell's wedding receptions. So this was a very special treat. I only regret not having photographed my kids with her. Hopefully we'll do that next year.

Here are some fun photos we took of Emmers and Maia Moos.

Man, I LOVE this girl.

Maia's blessing gave us a really great opportunity to take pictures of Renee with all the grandkids. It was a little tricky to try and get a picture with all those little kiddos wiggling around, especially since none of us are professionals. But we had a good time. And it should hold us over until next summer when two new little ones will be part of the pictures. I'm just so happy! Nine grandkids!!!

Grandma Nay was such a sport with these kids. We had marshmallows to bribe them to smile. What would we have done without Amy and her big bag of mallows?

How cute is this picture with Als and Otter Pops?

Chris took this sweet picture of Marin.

I love having a tall husband. I do so hate using a kitchen stool when he's out of town.