Cooking Up Halloween Fun!

Ariel became an Iron Chef for Halloween this year. Since I still have creative control, I wanted a costume that was off the beaten path of vampires, pirates, and princesses (although, the princess thing is sure to rear up one of these years).

Our participation in the festivities included a mall trick-or-treat event and a trick-or-treat dinner and door knocking party. On Saturday, we went to the outdoor mall by our house. We wanted Ariel to take a nap, but since she feels she’s such a big girl, she skipped it. So we wasted a good part of the treat collecting and got there 20 minutes before it was over. Now it sounds sad, and it was, but that girl hauled away a good quarter bucket full of loot. Impressive, to say the least. Eric and I also dressed up. It was nice to see we weren’t the only parents to do so.


Pumpkin Carving with Daddy



On Halloween night, we went to the house of Eric’s running friend. She and her husband were so gracious to feed us all before trick-or-treating. There were 6 kids in the group that went out, with Ariel being the youngest. Someone at every house commented on her costume. Yeah, score one for Mom! We’ve been teaching Ariel about patience and waiting your turn, so she was the last one of the group to get candy, but she managed to say “trick or treat” and “’thank you,” every time. Then she would run back to us shouting, “Candy, candy, candy!” Her little beach bucket was so full by the end of the night, that candy was falling out of it, but Ariel wouldn’t let us hold any of it so she could get more. Yes, we are in the “Mine, Mine phase” of the terrible twos. Fun.



We all had a great time this year. I’m wondering if I’ll get another year to choose her costume or if she’ll be old enough to dictate what she wants.

À la cuisine!





The Boo Crew



Obi Wan Kenobi Vs. Pj Pookie




Why?: A Rant

So we went out to celebrate Eric's birthday at a restaurant we rave about. But this time around, there wasn't much nice to say.
The biggest problem was finding food on the menu that Ariel would have eaten. I'll be talking about this restaurant in particular, but it applies to all sit down restaurants in general.
Why, oh why don't these places have options available for little ones (2-5 age range)? It might be a tactic to prevent families with young children from dining or it could be that no one cares. But I'm a mom. I care.
As I perused the menu searching for something to order for Ariel, I was outraged at the lack of anything on the menu. Even a child who was in the target range of the kids' menu (6-12) wouldn't have eaten what they offered. There was no macaroni and cheese for crying out loud!
I quickly searched the side dishes and found nothing that my picky child would eat. Nothing edible in the appetizers either. When the waitress arrived, I asked if there were other options other than what was on the menu (truly, I was looking for a fruit cup/bowl). She proceeded to tell me that I could order a kids' meal and take home what Ariel didn't eat (which would have been everything). Then she pointed out the all-veg side dishes, going on and on about the broccoli casserole they had. Seriously? What child in their right mind is going to eat broccoli, not matter how much cheese is drenched over it?
Albeit to say, until Ariel is like 3, we'll have to bring food from home for her to eat. She did have some fluffy, delicious, honey-butter croissants. So at least someone was happy.

The Retrograde Series: Episode 2 - Celebrating Life in the Parenthood

Technically last year was our first Mother's and Father's days, but with Ariel being so small, we didn't do much. So we made up for it this year.

Mother's Day


I woke up to one of my greatest joys. Breakfast. Vicki made Monkey Bread, which if you have never tasted it, are certainly missing out. This is one of the breads we used to devour as kids. It was great to celebrate the past and the present in one delicious dish. Along side were fruit salad, juice and a fragrant bouquet of flowers.

Eric and Ariel took me to finally redeem my birthday present: a massage. And well overdue. I don't understand why I don't get massages more often. They are so wonderful! We finished off our afternoon with lunch at Garbonzo's. Eric and I loved it. Ariel preferred her puffs to falafel.

Father's Day

I surprised Eric with a trip to the Colorado Renaissance Festival. Back when we were dating, Eric took me here on one of our dates. It's a shame it took us this long to get back. It was a great weekend to be outside - not too hot and mercifully cloudy. Ariel enjoyed looking at all the costumes and animals and music. I was afraid she'd start crying from overstimulation, but apparently, she's not that kind of kid. We watched a play or two, went to the archery booth, and listened to the masterful playing of the carillon musician. The Carillon is a rare Medieval Instrument, made entirely of 4 Tons of Bells and was impressive to see. It was Phantom of the Opera meets the music of the middle ages. Visit this webiste to hear sample of the music. http://www.castinbronze.com/

But the highlight of our day was the jousting tournament. We sat on the villian's side and everytime we were prompted to boo, Ariel jumped right in, growling and screaming with the rest of us. She actually watched the action in the arena. She really is a great kid to take on outings. We slept so good that night. It was a perfet day to celebrate Daddy Eric.

One Wild Child

The Denver Zoo has four free days a year. And back in February, we embarked into the madness for Ariel’s first outing to the zoo.

There was a big group of us that ventured out: my friend Mina with son Haylen and her family, our family, and both of our godchildren with their mommies. Now free days sound great in theory, but in all practicality, the zoo seems to have been placed on the outside of the gates. It took us at least twenty minutes to find parking (at least we didn’t have to pay).

And once we finally got inside the zoo, it was moving through a sea of humanity to view most of the exhibits. Since Ariel enjoys her “Mercedes” so much, we rented a wagon for her to ride it. I really didn’t want to be bothered with the running stroller. And as much as we took her in and out of it, I was glad for the wagon.

Yzzie rode in the wagon with Ariel and they made the cutest pair ever. Yzzie made sure to keep a good grip on the baby so she wouldn’t fall out. Phoenix was enthralled with the elephants. As we walked into the elephant pen, his eyes widened to the size of dinner plates and pointing his finger, he exclaimed, “Mama, Mama Mama.” I hope he wasn’t calling his mother an elephant, cause that’s just plain rude. :0)

It was hard to tell what Ariel really got out of the experience. Most of the time she spent staring at the people and not the animals. We pointed out a bunch of stuff, but perhaps it was all too overwhelming. But we’ll go back as it gets warmer. I won’t even mind paying to get in.

Summer Splash 5K 2009

2008 2009

So, the entire family once again participated in the Summer Splash 5k run/walk (or tortoise boogie if you're me). Eric won the race last year, but had to one up himself this time around. His goal was to break 20 minutes. He crossed the finish line at 18:35. Wow (show off)!

My goal was to come in under and hour. I know. That's like 20 min miles, but in my defense, I was in much better shape last year, and I was carting around a 3 1/2 month old baby in a running stroller and one crazy dog. I thought about running part of the course, but I didn't think Ariel wanted milkshakes for lunch. Plus, I didn't feel like having one of the jugs clobber me in the face.

The weather was great and much cooler than last year. I set a decent pace but steady lost sight of my fellow runners. Since the reservoir was open to the public this year, someone had the bright idea to have a semi-organized triathlon. This made the trail very crowded and every 20 seconds, someone on their bike was shouting, "On your left." They might as well have said, "Hey Fatty, get out of the way!" Rotten boogers.

I was the last one to cross the finish line (again) at a time of 1:02:43. Seriously. I missed my goal by three minutes. Arggghh.

Well, there's always next year. Better start training now.

Love in the Rose Garden

Friday night, we witnessed the marriage of Cheryl and Shane. It was held outdoors in a lovely rose garden under a gazebo. The lighting was just right for some fabulous pics and a beautiful ceremony. There were about 150 people who came from all over to attend this event. It's funny because even though we live close to Eric's family in Colorado, it took a wedding in Oregon for us to finally get together.

Ariel had been such a trooper, putting up with her her parents carting her all over creation. However, this night, she had had enough. Right around dinner time, as she was falling asleep, the loud welcome of the wedding party startled her. The ruckus upset Ariel and we spent the next hour or so, trying to calm her down. This isn't the first time Eric and I have eaten a cold diner and I'm sure it won't be the last. The entire situation was a little embarrassing because I felt like we were disturbing the other guests. Plus, with everyone wanting to "help", I felt as is they were telling me that I wasn't handling my child right. Believe me. I think I know what I'm doing. But once Ariel finally crashed, she slept through the reception (especially the loud music). She was very tired.

wedding partyAriel and cousin Emily

Eric and I made sure we danced as long as we could. We needed the adult time for sure. The next day, Shane's parents hosted a brunch and we were able to spend some time with the bride and groom. Congratulations to Cheryl and Shane, may your lives always be blessed!

Ariel with cousin Cheryl (bride)

Vacation In the Pacific Northwest

Eric, Ariel and I enjoyed a nice vacation in Oregon this past weekend. Eric's cousin, Cheryl was married to a great guy and we flew out to attend the wedding. Ariel did great on the plane (thank the heavens) and overall, the flight was quiet and uneventful.

Well you can't just go out of state and sit around, so we embarked on an adventure or two.

We rented a Saturn Vue and Eric and I had some serious car envy, as our cars are costing more money than they're worth (in repairs). It was a much needed expense, however, since we have Ariel. Anywho, We visited a Catholic sanctuary, called The Grotto. A beautiful altar is carved into the side of the mountain. The upper level featured this peaceful garden that is perfect for reflection and meditation. It was worth the trip.

We next visited the International Rose Test Garden. It began in like 1920 and features between 7,000 and 10,000 different types of roses. We've been trying to introduce different scents to Ariel, so she got to sniff quite a few flowers. This inevitably backfired and all we did was overwhelm her (whoops), but we got some nice pics before the meltdown.

David and the Team went to Hood River where we visited a couple vineyards. Our favorite was the Naked Winery, which had some very provocative names for their wines and even more scandalous descriptions for them. We loved the ambiance and the wine was pretty good too! We also stopped by Multnomah Falls which were beautiful and very crowded. We didn't stay long, but got a nice shot of the fam.

Saturday, we ventured downtown to Waterfront Park, which was right next to the Columbia River. They also had a food festival and a farmer's market. We skipped these events and just took some time to relax.

The trip back home was uneventful and we're happy to be home and back on a regular schedule.

Impromptu Date Night

Last night, Eric and I had an impromptu date night. We went out for pizza and snuggled up close (as close as we could get with Ariel between us) and sat down for Jim Henson's "The Dark Crystal." Yes, this is a feature film from the guy who brought us "The Muppets." Anyway, Eric had never seen TDC and last time I saw it, I think I was eight.

I was surprised at how good my memory was. While I'm more aware of the dialogue, the images are what were burned into my memory. At the time (the early 80's), the movie received mixed criticisms. I personally believe that Henson was a freaking genius. The entire movie was cast with his puppets/marionettes. There was not one human cast member. Period. While CGI was still a long way away, this movie is a classic as far as traditional (and non-traditional) film-making went. I love it. Eric on the other hand . . .thought it was alright.

If you get a chance to see it (or see it again), take it for what it is. But being a fantasy writer, I can truly appreciate the imagination and artistry that went into this movie.

Through a little web surfing, I discovered that a sequel is in the works. "The Power of the Crystal" is due to come out sometime in 2011. Expect a heavy hand in the CGI department.

The Triduum (Easter and its Holy Days)

This year, Eric and I decided to switch things up for Easter. This year we were going to participate in the Triduum. In the Catholic church, it is the three holy days of Easter: Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday. Holy Saturday actually melds into Easter Sunday.

Anyway, Thursday was the washing of the feet. As Jesus washed his disciples feet, we were invited to do the same with each other, as we are servants to our community. I had never been to service like this, so I just wanted to watch. It was pretty amazing to see all the friends and family go up together to do as Jesus did. I kinda regret not doing it now. But I hadn't shaved or clipped my toenails, so I wasn't feeling so comfortable with people touching my pregnant feet.

Friday was there was the Stations of the Cross in the park, which I had to miss because I was at work. The main part of service was the Passion of Jesus, which began with his arrest in the garden until his death on the cross. Our priest is a musical genius and wrote an entire composition for the reading. It was about an hour, but my goodness! I don't think there was a dry eye in the whole church. It was so beautifully written with all the intricate harmonies and melodies. But the main theme song was what got me. At the end, a single female choir member sang a solo and then a children's choir echoed her. Talking about haunting and moving. It was fabulous especially with the choir we have.

Saturday marked the Easter Vigil. We got up early for morning prayer to prepare our hearts for the evening service. We started outside were there was a blessing of the Easter candle. then the congregation moved into a darkened church to symbolize a world without Jesus. Each church member had a candle and we lit the church with only the light of Christ. There were a handful of readings and once we reached the point where Jesus had conquered death, all the lights flickered on and the choir erupted in this awesome song of praise and Hallelujah.

While the Triduum was tiring, I'm so glad we were able to participate this year. What a wonderful experience. It was very special to share it with my husband.

How Many Fingers Are You!

I deeply apologize for the seeming abandonment of the blog. I've been dealing with a lot lately (mainly work related) and haven't had much time for anything else but stress (oh boy).

Anyway, at the end of February, Eric's grandmother celebrated her 90th birthday! The family threw her a big party and all of the family (even those out of state) made the special trip out in honor of such a great lady. Grandma was very happy to have all of her loved ones close.

We also celebrated David's birthday (Eric's younger brother). He turned 26, what a youngin'. It wasn't anything extravagant, just dinner out and the opening of the gifts later. Later at his apartment, we played a ghetto-fied version of Jenga. David and Eric played, Eric won. Then Eric went head-to-head with Jesse. Jesse ended up winning, although Eric swears up and down the boy cheated.

Well, I grew up in a family of board game masters. So I challenged Jesse and despite all of his trash talking, I was the victor (35 minutes later). Even if I would have lost (which was highly unlikely anyway), I certainly played a better game.

Here's to birthday fun. Eric's is coming up in April. How will we celebrate next?

Best in Show (sort of)

Today we went to Pet Palace, a locally owned pet store (http://www.petpalaceusa.net/). Every year they have a pet costume contest. Last year Pazu went as a wizard, but he didn't place. This year, since he had such a kick-butt costume, I was hoping he would finish strong. Even if someone recognized him, that would have been a great consolation prize.

Since I'm a screw up, I didn't get my costume finished before the event, even though I tried my hardest to do so. Eric dressed up and this is what made Pazu's costume so great.

Anyway, there were about 30 entrants and some of the costumes looked fantastic. I was starting to get a little worried. There were a lot of butterflies and princesses. Eric was not impressed by these. We were #27 and Eric took Pazu to center stage. Since our dog is full of chicken poo, he didn't do any tricks. He didn't pee on anything either, so I shouldn't complain.

The judges went back into deliberation and here were the results.

Honorable mention to a dog in pj's and king of the hound dogs (yes, he was dressed as Elvis in the white jumpsuit).

4th place - Pazu as a Koopa Troopa! (did they just say our dog's name?)

3rd place - dog dressed as a fighter pilot (complete with goggles)

2nd place - dog dressed as a life guard (this was cute, he had the striped shirt and life preserver)

1st place - dog and owner dressed as reconnaissance field agents (think camouflage and ammo packs)

I am totally floored by our 4th place finish. It's nice to see hard work pay off. We were also awarded a $25 gift card to the store, so we'll be using this for Pazu's Christmas and birthday gifts. Just wanted to share this wonderful and surprising accomplishment.

Pazu and the 5K

So like way back at the beginning of August, Eric's employer (the city) had its annual employee appreciation extravaganza. This included a morning 5K run/walk. Mr. Competitive-Eric, of course ran it, because he had to win. He totally had an unfair advantage; good thing it was only for fun. He did win by the way and took home a pretty cool trophy.

Pazu and I, on the other hand, were there for support (being part of the support team and all). Pazu then had this great idea for us to participate. It was only 3.1 miles (maybe a little more) and we had walked that distance before. So the dog convinced me to sign us up and I marked by workout outfit with my first Colorado race number.

We finished the course and took the honors of being the absolute last ones to cross the finish line (hooray for the Tortoise crew). As we rounded the last corner, all the other runners were cheering us on. At least that's what I thought. Yeah, they were rooting for the dog.

Tri Me

Eric and I volunteered for My Way or the Tri Way Triathlon. We volunteered last year, working the "bike out" and had a lot of fun. This year, we helped set up the transition area (at 5:30 am!) and organized the food tables for after the race. We got snazzy neon green shirts and a free pair of Crocs! Oh yeah, we also get to feel good about giving back to the community. I also had the opportunity to catch up with some former co-workers who were also in attendance (1 athlete, 1 support crew member). Eric and I have so much fun at this race, we might make this our annual "couples' activity".

Afterwards, we went to Littleton for a family gathering. This part of the family is from Eric's maternal-grandmother's side. There was a wedding for one of the cousins, so a bunch of the fam were down from Nebraska. We got to see people who we haven't seen since OUR wedding. It's amazing how quickly time gets away from us. At good time was had by all, and it is unfortunate that it tookso long for us to reunite.

I should've taken a nap today, but the ship has sailed on that one, so I'll just have to go to bed early. Oh well.

Food for thought: Life is too short not to call or send a card to someone you're thinking about. You just might contact them when they need you the most.

A jewel and a legend

Friday, Eric scored tickets to the Concert for Kids charity concert. They were free to us, so that made it superfaboulus. The concert was held at Fiddler's Green, an outdoor amphitheatre. We were in the "balcony", but overall, they were decent seats.

The opening act was none other than Jewel. I have to tell yall, she's great in concert and she cracked me up with her jokes. I didn't believe it was her at first, because they hadn't yet turned on the Jumbo Tron. I was like "This is a really good impersonator." Then the screen came on and I saw her teeth. Confirmation. I think she had to tone things down, because some of her music is a little on the controversial side. It was a concert honoring kids, after all. Jewel's my girl.

The main act was the very handsome and talented, John Legend (here's a napkin for that drool). John electrified the audience when he walked out on stage and I thought the girl next to me was going to hyperventilate. He played a great set with lots of rhythm, soulful vocals, and that killer piano. He reminds me of a male version of Alicia Keys.

We had a great time on our free date night.

Bolder Boulder 2008

For twelve years, Eric has faithfully participated in the annual Memorial Day 10K run-the Bolder Boulder. The Bolder Boulder is the largest Memorial Day celebration in the nation. Over 51,000 runners/walkers registered to take on the course (6.2 miles). They were celebrating their 30th anniversary, so there was a lot of hoo-hay to go around.

On BB race day, we usually stay the night at Eric's parent's house, since they live 20 miles from Boulder. We wake up at 4:45am, so we can eat, pack a bag, and be out the door at 5:45 am. Then we drive in the cold and the dark to be at the runner drop off point (near the start line) around 6:30am. Since Eric is a fast guy, he usually runs in the AA wave, which starts about 7:00 am.

As the captain of the support team, I then drive to a parking spot near the finish line and bust my butt to get into the CU stadium, by the time Eric is expected to start. Half of the fun of being a spectator is to try and catch your loved one coming down the ramp into the stadium. I all my years of BB spectating, I've only missed Eric enter once. Yeah, I'm that good. (If you can blow up the pic, Eric is in blue and wearing a white visor. His race is #200).

We met up with some of Eric's blogging buddies then we headed to the outdoor expo where you receive free goodies (mostly food samples) and can visit with various sport related vendors.

This year, Eric had an ambitious goal. He was determined to beat Jesse's (his older brother) BB record he set when he was 17. A time of 37:38. Well, Eric beat it by 2 seconds. But 2 seconds is as good as two miles. He also set a new personal record, beating his old time by 5 minutes. Way to go Iron Eric!

Then we went home and slept for a good remainder of the day.

May God bless all the active military, veterans, and their families on this 2008 Memorial Day.