I've Been Inspired

There's something that I've definitely noticed, about being a mom. I've let my "fashion" sense go. You're not going to be seeing me wearing high heels. Most days, I'm just plain lucky, to get dressed, comb my hair, and brush my teeth. I know. Mommyhood, just isn't glamorous.

But I've been inspired. I see my friends, like La Chiquitita, Linda, Manders, and Rachael, that just have it all together. La Chiquitita has no excuses. All the time!! I've seen her so sick, she can barely walk, but the mujer has her lipgloss on, nails polished, and some cute little outfit on. Even if it's sweats, and a t-shirt. She's always pulled together!

Linda is sicker than can be. She's expecting her 2nd daughter this December. But every time that I see her, she look adorable! Manders, well what can I say? I've never seen her, not put together. Even after she had her twins. No lie! I waddled into her room, and she looked perfect. With lipgloss and all.

Mrs. Rachael, well she also inspires me. Her husband has been gone for months. Fighting wildfires. He comes and gos. But is mostly gone. She's got 2 little boys, and a baby girl. But honestly, she always has it together. Hair, makeup, clothes. Even the cutest accessories.

Can you see why I'm inspired? Well, that's not even the half of it! While I was searching for some yummy recipes on Pinterest, I came across Sheaffer. Who has some great taste! Oh, and she also happens to have a cute Fashion Blog. Not the "usual" type. More of a regular mom, type. Something I can relate to.



This my friends, is one of my favorite outfits on her blog. Especially during this time of year. In the desert southwest. Let me tell you, it can be a little confusing, as in what to wear. Well, I'm going to try this out. This week, for my boys' soccer game!

I'm positive, that I have that same tank top. From Target! In fact, I have it in like 4 colors. :) Who doesn't own a pair of dark wash jeans? I have a brown belt, and some awesome wedge, tan sandals. I got them on clearance for $5!! At Old Navy. That was shocking. As they never have anything in my size, on the clearance rack. :)

Don't laugh, I even have a hat like that!! Which I'm totally going to wear. One, because I haven't worn it since our vacation last summer. Two, I won't have to worry about my hair. :) Shhh, don't tell anyone!

I will however, have to search out some of that "antique gold" jewelry. Love it! Love that my girl, loves to sport it. But I'm positive, I don't own any of it. :( I guess, I will just have to do a little shopping this week.

Honestly, that will be a blessing to all. I really do, have to buy some new clothes. I know! Sorry friends. But this is my pledge, to trying to look better. Taking a little more time for me, and well anyone that I come in contact with.

Thanks to all the ladies that have inspired me!!

We're Back....

And I'm exhausted! Marissa did well. Heck, all our kiddos did well. Great actually. Between flights, long days at the conference, and crazy schedules....we didn't just survive. We learned. Had fun. Oh, and put on a great show!!

Now we're home. And I'm so exhausted, our are bags are still sitting in the garage. Except Maribel's. But we all know her. She had to put everything away. Immediately! Mommy? Not so much. I've just been trying to get everyone, back into their schedules.

For example, this afternoon/night are going to be nuts!! I pick up the big girls from school, get them to dance practice. Manage some quick snacks in there. Pray and hope everything gets done. Pick up the girls. Make it to the soccer fields in time. Oh, and dinner....

I bet you're wondering about our dinner. So am I!! I found this recipe a few weeks ago. Right now, it's bubbling away. And smells pretty wonderful!! This morning, David made some tostada shells, and pico de gallo. I'm making guacamole in a bit. And well, our crock pot will be heading to the fields with us.



It does look tasty. And let me tell you, it smells yummy!! I'm also packing some fruit. And perhaps, we might stop for ice cream. You know, after the soccer game. Speaking of, when did life get so busy? When did my youngest, decide soccer was his life? I'm starting to really feel like, a mommy of 5!!

Mountain Dew Fun

I guess you should know a few things. Marissa is a bit obsessed with Mountain Dew. I'm going to say, it's because of this hombre. But it's the honest truth! We don't let our kiddos drink soda. Almost never. For Marissa's birthday, she's allowed 1 can of soda. Which is ALWAYS Mountain Dew. Hands down. I never have to wonder.

The kid is beyond obsessed. Her Tia Bonita bought her a Mountain Dew lipgloss. The thing lasted days. Because my daughter, constantly put it on. She's sorta in love here.

Sometime around Spring, I noticed this picture on Pinterest. It peaked my interest. And I just knew, I'd come back to it. And boy, did we ever!!



I can honestly say, we've tried this "Mountain Dew paint," more than 20 times, this Summer! I'm sure, David was wondering where all this Mountain Dew was going. Until one Saturday, he came home between gigs. To find us "painting" our back patio.

Let's just say, this is fun for more, than just the kiddos!! And I don't have to worry about Chente....or my kiddos eating it. But it's definitely fun to play with. And my kiddos absolutely love making our patio "glow."

It's Friday

And it's been one looong week!! That's funny. Being that we started the week with a holiday. I guess, we just never fell into our schedule this week. And it's made for a very long week!

And I just feel like making a little surprise, for my kiddos. It's well documented, that I'm not a good cook, or baker. But you know, even I can make these.



Don't they look delicious? And come on, even my little moody princess, should enjoy these. After school. But before dinner. I'm sure, I'll have to hide a few for David. :)

Speaking of Marissa, I'm praying for both of us. We have 3 days. 3 days people! I hope she's able to control herself. Or the 2 of us, will be staying home for the week. Las Vegas, I really do miss you! So everyone, please say a little prayer for Marissa and I.

Just For Mommy

Life is getting into a nice little routine. The girls are loving school. Which honestly, isn't a big surprise to me. I still can't believe I have a kindergartner, and a 1st grader. When did this happen?

Silently, I'm excited that Mariella, decided not to go to pre-school this year. I'm being a little selfish here. But I'm happy that she's home, with the twins and I. At least for one more year. And I'm 100% positive that David, is happy too! One less tuition. At least for another year. :)

But our little routine is getting set. Every morning, David and the girls are gone before 7am. Completely ready, to start their days. Yes, they've even had breakfast! I don't know how they do it. Oh, yes I do!! We've managed to keep our little routine from last year.

Somehow, we keep the twins and Mariella in bed. David is up making breakfast. And I'm getting Marissa and Maribel ready for the day. They eat a yummy lunch at school. And I only have to worry about "Snack Days," twice a month.

After they're gone, the twins, Mariella, and I have our breakfast. While enjoying Sesame Street. Yes, in english and spanish!! It's a MUST in our home. :) Honestly, we just enjoy the quiet. It's the only "quiet time" we have, while our kiddos are awake.

We then get ready, and head out. Mariella has gymnastics. And we run a few errands. Before making it home. You know, at the "heat" of the day. Can you believe, we're still have 100+ temps? Ugh! Where is Fall?

When we get home, we typically have lunch. Then my kiddos go down for a nap. I'm a little spoiled here. My kiddos take a 2 hour nap!! Yes, I said 2 hours. During which, I'm finding a little more "Me" time.

Typically, this didn't happen. Just a few months ago, it meant quickly cleaning up the house. Doing piles, and piles of laundry. Just trying to keep up with my kiddos, hubby, and the house. These says, Chente and I have some time to just relax.

I try to catch up on General Hospital. And maybe even The Chew, and The Nate Berkus Show. You know, I have them recorded on tivo. And eventually, they NEED to be watched! All the while, Chente is napping. But I'm starting to feel like I need a hobby. Real bad.

I took to Pinterest. Man, you can get lost there, for hours and hours!! There is so much information and inspiration, on Pinterest. That's where I found this little project...



Before my friends start laughing, yes I'm going to craft! I need a hobby. Something to fill my time. You know, now that all my kiddos are potty trained, can play alone, and have their own activities....mommy's a little bored.

I'm going to make a few of these bangles. Just like this. But in a more "Selena" color pallet. Then maybe some with my kids' names. And a few with cute sayings (things David and I tell each other.)

Are there any crafts out there, that you would recommend? Something for a new "Crafty Mom." Something I can handle. Please let me know! Because it's nice to do fun little things for yourself. You know, every once in a while. Like during those precious 2 hours, every day!!

His First Game

Tonight, our baby boy, became a big boy!! Oh yes he did. :) David Jr. had his first soccer game. I know that I haven't talked about it on here, but for the last few weeks, David has been coaching a soccer team. Of 2 year olds. They are the cutest little things ever!!

I might be a little biased. Being that my son, is on the team. And so is his little buddy! I'm positive, that there weren't 2 prouder mommas. Oh yeah, Rach was pretty proud of Danny too! :) It was a grand time. And something I'm looking forward to every week!



You see, we have 4 little girls. 3 of which, dance and play instruments. No one is into sports. But our son, has wanted to do it all. Since he was so small. He wanted to dance with his sisters, play the trumpet with his daddy, and play futbol!!

It's so nice to see David and David Jr. working at this together. Seeing my husband coaching. And my son, have the time of his life! He's probably thinking, "Finally something for me. All for me. No sisters. No girls stuff. Just me, daddy, and the boys." I can just see his little train of thought. :)

They practice twice a week. And have one game a week. Either on Tuesday or Wednesday nights. And let me tell you, tonight 70% of the people at the game, were there to cheer on my little man!! He loved it! Tia Bonita even sent some presents. Which they adored!! Thanks again Chiquitita.

I'm excited for this new phase of our lives. To see the difference between our girls, and our son. To live on this side of parenting. To enjoy new and exciting things. I'm pretty excited! I know David Jr. is too!! And of course, his 4 biggest cheerleaders. See what happens when you have 4 older sisters. :)

Something Special

Marissa and Mariella both have birthdays coming up in September. I'm always looking for new ideas. New things to do for them. Something special. Something that makes each one of my kiddos know, they are loved.

I took to my favorite little place, Pinterest. So many good and fun ideas. Some that are just over my skill level. Come on, I don't know how to sew. But some that I know, I can do. This one, being one of my very favorites.



Being a mommy of 5, I know that these things can quickly add up. Believe me, I know! And with 2 daughters, having birthdays less than 2 weeks apart....I always take these things into account. I'm looking for things we can afford, and that are still fun.

Yes, this is a total inspiration for us. In fact, we have a certain 6 year old, that needs a little love right now. I'm 100% positive, that she is going to love something this special!!

Oh Summer!!

I know. Most people love summer. Most kids love summer. MOST. The exception, my daughter. It pains Marissa, when May is winding down. ALWAYS has. Well, it started when she was about 3 years old. It just killed her. I don't know why.

This summer is no exception. Not at all! She was bummed because Papa Memo and Cari Bear were heading to Mexico. All summer long! What the heck was she going to do? Her dear Tia Bonita wasn't going to be spending tons of time here. Oh, and there was our trip.

I don't know what it was. Or why she really hated it. Not all of it. But most of it. Marissa insisted that the trip, was all about David Jr. Truth is, we spent a ton of time planning out a good trip. Well rounded. With things for all of us to do. And enjoy. Honestly, deep down inside, I know our daughter enjoyed the trip.

Most of all, I just think Marissa is having a hard time. You know, growing up. And dealing with her 3 little sisters. And her little brother. Yes, 2 and a half years later, my daughter is still trying to give away her brother.



This summer has been a heck of a time. Marissa has had her beloved Papa Memo, her best friend Cari, her Tia Bonita, her favorite uncle Sancho, and at times, her daddy. It's been a tough one. I think that's why she's been acting out.

Does it make what she does OK? Heck no!! But I can understand it. It's tough. It's been a tough summer. Marissa has been testing my patience. It makes me want to strangle her. Hug her. And cry, all at the same time. It's been a tough summer. One that I wish would just end. For all of our sakes, I wish school started today.

Instead, my daughters have one week of summer left. The part where Summer Camp is over. And school is a week away. The week, most kids love. And never want to end. My daughter, is counting down, until next Monday. Silently, so am I.

You see, not only is our beloved Summer Camp over. Which by the way, has been saving our summer. Well, for the most part. We would have all killed each other, had it not been for Summer Camp. But this week, David is gone. All week long!! Someone please save me and my kiddos.

David sat everyone down. Before he left. And laid out the rules. We reminded Marissa, that she has to be good. Especially, if she wants to go to the conference in Las Vegas. Which, is just about a month from now.

This week, is going to be a long one. One for all of us to pray. Say lots and lots of prayers. I'm afraid of what might happen, if we don't pray. We NEED to pray. For my sanity. For my kiddos. Most of all, for Marissa.

Yumm-O!!

Our family of 7, loves to snack. No, I don't think you understand the reality of that statement. We LOVE to snack!! And I'm always looking for new ideas. Something delicious, fun, easy, and nutritious. You know, I'm supposed to be teaching my kiddos, about these types of things. Good food, being one of them.

We'd been enjoying the same snacks for a while now. Apples with Nutella, cheese melted on apples, granola, oranges with strawberries, carrots and ranch dressing, and a once in a while cupcake. Sometimes, a smoothie.

As you can see, we've been in a bit of a rut. A food rut. So I took to Pinterest for a little inspiration. Boy, I've got some ideas now!! Hopefully, my kiddos like them. :)




There is one "recipe" that I've tried. And that my kiddos love!! No, I mean L-O-V-E!!!! We eat a lot of bananas. But just plain bananas. Nothing too crazy. I think the craziest we get, is mashed bananas and Nutella, on toast. That is delicious!!

But this little idea, is all about a yummy, frozen, chocolate covered banana. With a dash of powdered sugar. Or in our case, I sprinkled them with toasted coconut. I'm not sure who enjoys this snack more. My kiddos, or David and I. Can't lie, I made a batch when the kids went to bed. Um, we may almost be done with it now. Just 20 minutes later! :)

New Desk Idea

Around our home, space is always an issue. We seem to "hunt" down a little space. And mark our territory. I don't think small families have this issue. I'm not certain. Being that I've always been from a large family.

As our kids get older, the issues just seem to grow. We need sleep spaces, play spaces, and know homework spaces. Since we moved into our home, the office has always been David's space. He needs it for work. But I had a small desk, and some space in there. A place, for me to go and do work. You know, pay bills, write letters and Thank yous, things like that.

But last year, I started to notice something, I was getting squeezed out. You see, this also happens to be the space, where Marissa and Maribel do their homework. Mostly because it's quiet. And the younger kids know, it's off limits.

Their little desks moved in. Mine got harder and harder to get to. I wondered if I'd ever have a little "space" again. While I was browsing through Pinterest the other night, I came across this picture.

And it's given me some ideas. We have 2 large closets in our den. One that we don't really use. I talked to David about this. Showed him this picture. And instantly, he started sketching some ideas.

Looks like this mommy is getting a new "space." That's all hers. :) Honestly, this setup is much better than the one I previously had. Don't tell anyone. But maybe just maybe, this will also help me stay organized. Goodness, I can't wait to get started!!

For the Birds

It's Summer! My older girls, I can tell they're getting a little bored. I can just see it all over them! You see, we have ridiculous weather here. Weather that is happy to stay 100+ for weeks at a time. Most of the time we're well over 105 degrees.

I know. My kiddos would enjoy, staying in the pool all day long! But with 5 of them, and 1 of me, that's not a possibility. Not even close!! We only go in the pool, when David is home. That means, I must come up with some good ideas. You know, to keep Familia G happy.

It's crazy. Especially being that my husband works, 7 days a week. No, really. Monday-Friday he has his job. You know, where he has a career, as an engineer. Then on the weekends, he's working with the Mariachi. We're sorta used to this. You know when we have a routine.

But now that it's Summer, our routine has changed. Marissa is in Summer Camp. Because, well she needs it. We need it. I NEED it!! But that's only during the week. On the weekends, I've got everyone. By myself!!

I turned to Pinterest. I needed a plan. For this past weekend. My husband was working all weekend. And I just knew, Marissa and I would butt heads. We needed a plan.

Well, turns out, we had some fun projects to tackle. That honestly, kept everyone busy. And happy! What did we work on? Something for our little feathered friends. :)



Now if you're asking yourself...."What is this?" It's a bird feeder. Shut up! I know. Just call me "Crafty Mommy." We made 3. Maribel and Marissa each had their own. The 3 youngins' and I, worked on another.

These lovely feeders, are made with slinkies! Shut your mouth!! That's what I said. A slinky, some wire, a bit of paint, and bird feed....made for hours and hours of fun! And I'm 100% positive that our feathered friends, were happy with our crafting too!

Life Changing Ideas

Sometimes I just have to admit it. Life with 5 kiddos can be....well let's just say, a little crazy!! And I welcome all things, that will make my life easier.

When you go this route, things may not be done perfectly, but they will be done. My kiddos are getting to those wonderful ages, where they can now do things for themselves. And remember our "Color System." It's still in action. And doing GREAT things for us!!

Now that we have older kiddos, I'm looking for those things that make our lives a little easier. Pinterest is a great place to find ideas and inspiration. That's where I found this idea!!



We made a quick trip to Target yesterday. Everyone picked out their favorite cup. You know, in their color. When I got home, I washed those babies. Glued a few magnets on. And now, my kiddos can get their own water. Day or night.

It's one less thing, that I'm worry about this Summer. Yes, I've noticed a bit more water on the floor. But Chente is enjoying the cool water. It's a win-win-win. The kiddos are becoming more independent. Chente is getting a steady amount, of cold water. And well, I'm able to make snacks, do laundry, and perhaps run to the bathroom....without searching for water cups.

Do you have any more ideas I could use? Simple things. Things that my 6 year old, and 2 year olds can handle? I'd love to hear about some more good ideas!!

French Braid Updo

David is at work. Marissa is at school. Maribel is at dance practice. Mariella is sitting here with me. And the twins are napping. Mommy Love needed a little break. :)

So we're watching some YouTube videos. And I found this one...



I just love this hairstyle! So cute. I have such straight hair. And I don't do much with it. Because I don't know what to do with it. I've always had this problem. It was much more of an issue when I worked. But now that I stay home with my 5 kiddos, well it's usually down. Or in a bun. Or something like that.

But David and I are going on a date night soon. So I was looking for some nice things to do. I'm trying to make an effort at looking nice for my dear husband. My plan is to practice this at nap time this afternoon. I really want to try this for our date night. :)

Marissa's 5th Birthday

Dear Marissa,

We can't believe that you're already 5 years old! Where did all the time go? You're already such a big girl. I still remember the day you were born. The day you made us parents. That beautiful smile that we've grown to love, that was the first day we got to see it. :)

You have taught us so much in the last 5 years. So much about love. And patients. About answering the never ending questions. And loving all things pink and NASCAR. Yes, our little girl, you've taught us more than we've taught you. It's just that simple.

I know. You're a big girl. I see it every week. The way you take care of your little sisters and brother. And yes, you're still working on "loving him." But we're getting there. We just love watching you grow. How excited you get to go to school or your "biolin" lessons. The love you have for church. And dancing is your life. It's amazing to sit and watch.

But most of all, we're just happy and grateful for you happiness and health. It's something we'll never take for granted. It's been 5 years since we welcomed you into the world. 5 very short years! But were has the time gone?

All we want is for you to grow up and be happy. I'm not sure were the years are going to take us. Or how the journey is going to be. But we're excited! And ready for it. We just want for you to continue to grow and be such a happy ninita! Feliz Cumpleanos! :)

Con amor,

Mommy Love and Daddy Bear

Planning for 2

I'm sitting here, completely blank. I have no clue what we're going to do for Marissa and Mariella's birthdays. Marissa wants another Dale Jr. party. Mariella, I'm thinking something with animals. But I don't know. And David, he's insisting that we need to have 2 separate parties.

So I'm sitting here trying to think about it. If you have any ideas or suggestions, please leave them here. I need them. I don't have a clue what to do. It makes me wonder about March...

Play Doh

I'm pretty sure my parents hate me. They bought our girls this big pack of Play Doh. And today, I was trying to be a good mom. I let them play with it. Like always, Maribel played nicely. She didn't mix the colors. Or put the Play Doh in the grass or dirt. She didn't throw it into the pool. No, that would be Mariella.

We played outside with the Play Doh. Because I didn't want to find it in our carpet, on the curtains, or in the furniture. So after 2 hours, we headed back in. All Play Doh was confiscated. Put away in the garage. Out of my little girls' reach.

Then after bedtime, I found it. In the carpet. Blue Play Doh in our light carpet. And I couldn't get it out. Good thing David is patient. After the clean up, we went to sit on the couch. Watch some TV. Pink Play Doh was between the cushions. How does this happen? I know I took it all away from Mariella.

I'm wondering, did she hide some? Is she just trying to drive her mom crazy? What's up? Note to all grandparents, no Play Doh, markers, finger paints, etc. Not until our youngest 2 are at least 4. Then we might be able to deal...

Urban Rain Giveaway

Nothing says girly goodness like this shop, Urban Rain. And My Cakies is hosting a giveaway for them. For a $25 gift certificate! I'm sure I could get lots of hair bobbins for my girls. 4 girls...they like their hair accessories!

Made Me Laugh

I seen this commercial this morning and it made me laugh. I think David wanted to cry. But as you all know, we have 5 kids. Our last 2, being twins. And the color system, it's been in place since our 2nd daughter was born.

Everything is color coded. Their towels, blankets, and sometimes clothes. I'm just trying to keep up with them here. But this commercial just made me laugh. I hadn't yet thought about the day we have to buy them all school supplies. And how are they going to keep it all organized. I'm hoping, there are our 5 colors that we use.

And why exactly did David want to cry? Because we made the decision to send our kids to Catholic School. Why? Because the public school system here, it really is not good. And the Catholic Schools are really good. Secondly, our religion is really important to us.

That means, we spend less money on other things. Like toys and vacations. But it was a family decision. One that we're very happy we made. But Marissa is starting her 3rd year of pre-school there. And I have to admit, it's pretty costly. Not crazy, but that's money we could use in other areas. Just wait until next summer when we are facing 2 tuitions.

So this commercial, it's just a reminder of what we are going to face in our future. Not that we have triplets. But 5 kids, 2 twins, isn't that crazy enough? But you have to love the color system. It still allows for creativity and individuality. :)

Friends

Friends are pretty amazing. They're right there when you need them. You never have to ask for them. You never have to tell them what's wrong, they're just there.

On Friday, both of our older girls had events to go to. My parents were taking my grandma to the doctor. David's parents were busy. David had to work. And well, these days, it's tough for me to get out of the house. Breastfeeding twins is a FULL TIME JOB! But I do love it.

Maribel asked her Nono (Albert) to take her to her dance performance. And Marissa called up her Tia Bonita (Lola.) She had a field trip to the park and the museum. Tia Bonita immediately said yes. I know it was going to be tough for her. Being that she was supposed to be across the country. But she came.

And our girls had a blast! Maribel did so good. And Albert even recorded it for us to watch. :) Marissa had a great time too! And she even talked Tia Bonita and Tio Berto into taking them out for pizza. From what I hear, Marissa "bought" Maribel dinner. She has a bunch of those free pizza coupons from school. Because my daughter reads and reads. The coupons are their rewards.

But we've got some pretty amazing friends. This is just 1 example of our amazing friends. I never used to understand the saying, "It takes a village to raise a child." But now, I know that is true. There are so many things our kids would miss out on.

Our friends are always doing things like this. Borrowing our kids to go to the library, store, or the park. Papa Memo coming and picking up our girls to take them for a sleepover and cooking. The girls really enjoy that.

But then there are things like when Lola comes over for a visit. And I'm looking like a "hot mess." Just ready to fall apart. And she tells me to hand over my screaming babies. Mariella is running around, Marissa is asking a million questions, and Maribel is quietly playing. That's a pretty average day around here.

Lola sends me to my room to just collect my thoughts. And she is wonderful with my kids. By the time I come back out, my bigger girls are happily coloring. And my twins are laughing away in their little chairs. How she does it, I'll never know. But Lola really does need to have children.
She just knows that I need some time. And she gives me 5 minutes. Heck, one time I took a nap. A 2 hour nap. And the kids and Lola were just having a good time. That's what good friends are. People who come running to you when you need help. They're there for you during the good times and the bad.

David and I are so lucky to have amazing friends. All of our friends. But especially Albert, Memo, and Lola. Thank you guys from the bottom of my heart. I know I couldn't survive most days without you. Your friendship means the world to me!

Typical Summer in the Desert

June was horrible! It was all about the typical summer heat in the desert. Horribly hot. My girls wanted to play outside. But we couldn't take the heat. The AC was on 24/7. And around 8pm, we'd all head outside to our pool. In all honesty, the only cool time of day was between 6-8am. My girls and I lived for that time of day. And then, we all took 4 hour naps in the middle of the day.

Now, it's nearly July. The Monsoon Season is beginning. And the typical dry and hot summer days are turning quickly into muggy stormy evenings and nights. I love it! So do our kids. Because the temps have dropped at least 15 degrees in the past week. It means mornings spent outside. Playing and gardening. Even the twins are enjoying it. :)