KEEPING IT REAL - The End of the Year

What a year it has been. I had to re-evaluate all that has happened and I have come to the conclusion that it has been a blessed year. The family has seen alot of wonderful events that have happened through out the past months and with this we have all faced our challenges. I am thankful that we are all in good health. We will continue to pray for Mike, who has had his own health challenge and we lift up the job situation for those of us in need of them. I can still say with joy in my heart that we are blessed.

We ended the year with our 2nd annual trip to Knott's Berry Farm. (see photo bucket for the current pictures) We had a great time riding those scary rides, and just being around each other. Mom, Daddy and Mike did well they put in a full day from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm (which is a long day for all of us). The highlight event of the day was the "Snoopy on Ice" show, which was full of very talented skaters, it also gave us a chance to sit down and relax!

Christmas Eve is great only because it's a house full of loved ones. We decided to change our menu this year, instead of appetizers we did different types of soups, it was really a good idea. We still had our traditional Christmas dinner which is always good. The one thing that we did not expect to happened, happened. We ran about 2 hours behind than usual. We usually end by 1:00 am, we did not finish until 2:00 am which means most of us did not get home until 3:00! It was a great evening once again with the family.

This year we adopted another family into ours. My nephew Ray has a good friend who does not have family close by, and his wife is an only child and both parents are deceased. So we gave them the big "Pensader" welcome. It was a pleasure to have both Larry, Vickie and Kayla with us to share this special time of year. I know we will see them soon. I think it is wonderful to see our family grow each year, it makes me smile to know that we are touching each others lives deeply.

KEEPING IT REAL - In Times of Challenges

It has been a month since I wrote last. Alot has happened!

Calinia asked me about a month ago to take up crocheting with her, so I did. It's been nice sitting with her talking and making something. I have made 6 scarves 4 benie's and two baby blankets. Talk about being useful with my time!

The family had a good time for Thanksgiving - we gathered at Annie and LaBaron's house in Hemet. We then were blessed to eat again with the LeComtes.

I love this time of year - I love to see the tree's changing (yes, even in California)! The air is cooler and smells fresher. I love looking out our dining room window to see all the mountains and soon they will be filled with snow.

This is the time of year I am reminded of all those I love and am thankful for. It has been a challenging year for us, I know that alot of people could say the same for their situation.

We have had some awesome times as well. We celebrated the 50th Anniversary for my parents, and gathered together to see two beautiful niece's get married. We have had our share of sadness with the news of Joan and her Alzheimer's. It saddens our hearts to be so far away from his family. I know that Peter's heart is longing to be there to help.

As of yesterday, I have joined the thousands of people who are unemployed. I knew by the economy it was only a matter of time. I can't say I am not without a little bit of fear because of the unknown. I am encouraged by the confidence I have in GOD who is our provider. We know that another opportunity is right around the corner. We are reminded of how faithful HE is, and has been in the past. Knowing this only comforts our spirit. We have set our sights on things above, and this to will pass.

Mike has been feeling better even with all the chemotherapy he has undergone. He has lost alot of weight, and big changes will be happening with them first of the year. GOD has moved in awesome ways, such as some credit card companies forgiving their debt. Villa is applying to the state for a position for hospice care. Which means that if she gets it she can take care of Mike, and get paid for doing it. Praise GOD!

Villa said something to me on Thanksgiving which I had to think about. "Live life as if it were your last day". I have to ask myself if this were the case would I live for myself or give of myself to other's. My thought would be to want to leave an imprint on the heart of someone whom I do not know but to give out of my own need. To leave something behind not materialistic, but real in the heart of the receiver. So I ask how would you live your life as if it were your last?

KEEPING IT REAL - She Passed!

Well, she did it! Calinia passed her Driver's test. 2 down and 6 more big events to go. Remember her first was getting into F.I.D.M (that was big) We feel that she still needs to put more hours into her driving. Peter says that she improves daily, this is good.

In any case, she is like a whirlwind when it comes to the weekends. It is like a game "now you see her, now you don't". I did happen to have a nice dinner with her last night. I'll take what ever I get.

KEEPING IT REAL - she's growing up...

It is now Sunday evening around 8:30 p.m. and Calinia is out to dinner with some friends. She went out bowling with friends on Saturday evening and was out Friday night to watch the football game.

It makes us realize that she is growing up. It is really hard to let go, we know that we have too but can we do it in increments?

Tomorrow we pick out her Graduation invitations, and cap and gown! It is happening way to fast.

KEEPING IT REAL - 24 years and counting....

Well, the day started off somewhat slow because it was Friday and I try ( I said try) to sleep in on my day off. That is if I am not interrupted by Calinia asking me to do something for her, and Mini Cooper jumping on the bed barking at me for attention. Then I ask myself if I am going to waste away this day? So then I feel the need to get up! So I do and feel glad that I did.

Peter and I realized we had the whole day to ourselves since Calinia was staying at school the whole day into the evening because she was helping with the “Tailgate Party” the school was hosting to boost the football season. We then decided to celebrate our 24th Anniversary which is on the 30th of this month but we both work.

Our thoughts were something simple but nice. So we headed to Old Town and had lunch at Bailey’s Café which was pleasant. Our lunch was full of good conversation and the reality that we have survived all the up’s and down’s and that we would survive another challenge with the LORD’s help.

We walked around Old Town looked into all the little shops and to see all the new adding on of “a city life” but in a small town which make Temecula’s Old Town different. We ended up eating dinner at Applebee’s and rented a movie and had a nice evening together. Peter gave me a Digital photo album which I have wanted for a long time, so that we can enjoy photo’s all year long. Calinia came home around 11:30 p.m. so exhausted from helping set up and tear down this evening but had fun.

Saturday, I went to work until 2:00 p.m. nothing going on at work. Calinia and Alexa went to Alexa’s aunt’s baby shower. They spent the whole afternoon there and enjoyed themselves. Then they came home and needed to get ready to go to Alexa’s homecoming dance. The girls went to dinner with some friends and then we picked them up to go to the dance. The dance finished at 11:00 p.m. and they danced the whole night and came home even more exhausted. They went to bed around 1:00 am.

We were up by 6:00 a.m. to get ready to go to Coronado Island to see the Vintage Race’s. We left town around 7:30 and were there by 9:00. We met Dan McCormick there and ran into Bill Stump who brought his son. The girls did there own thing as we did ours. We enjoyed ourselves. It was a bit overcast and cold the whole day. Around 3:00 we found out that our car battery died. So thank goodness for AAA who sent someone out to jump start the car, it changed our plans a bit because we wanted to go to the Village Pizzeria for dinner and we couldn’t. So we reached town dropped of the car and took the other car and went to dinner. It is Peter’s birthday today! Over all he said he had a nice day.

KEEPING IT REAL- What's with the fake eye lashes?

So this past week has been a strange but funny one. It started with Calinia purchasing fake eye lashes on Saturday. (do you remember using them?)

Sunday they were easy for me to put on her and the even looked real. Monday was the same and they looked fine when she walked out the door. I get this text message by ll:00 am from Calinia telling me that she put her head down on the desk and closed her eyes for just a few minutes only to awake with them crooked but still on. Her friend Jake looks at her and asked if she realized what was happening with her lashes, she giggles and tell him thanks for the update. Then her text tells me that she has to look for a girl that she knows who wears fake nails, fake hair extentions and yea fake eye lashes! I get a text 10 minutes later telling me all is well with her lashes, and they are looking good.

Wednesday morning I was not moving fast and Calinia decided that she was going to put them on herself. All I remember hearing were sounds coming from the bathroom. I guess she wasn’t doing very well with them because I then hear a stressful “mom”. I go in and she had the pair all messed up. We then proceed to put the new ones on which we had to trim because they were slightly longer in width. So I cut a tad off and we put them on. They look fine except Calinia’s thought “is that they a little to long.” I looked at her asking why we didn’t trim them before we put them on? So I have this bright idea to cut them while she’s wearing them. I was only going to cut a little off, I told her not to blink while I was doing this, does she listen? The next thing I know I cut a little chuck of it right in the middle of the lash!!! She panics and starts to laugh and so then I proceed to try and even them out, only to have one eyes shorter than the other, then when we tried to trim the other side, we were laughing even harder. The laughter turned to frustration as she rip them off her eyes. I let her know that I was not going to do this again, and if she bought them she was going to have to put them on herself.

I had to remind her that she has long lashes why go through all this? Her response was it is something new to try!!! Go figure.

KEEPING IT REAL - Mike & Kathy's Wedding

We are exhausted! Just arrived home about an hour ago. The Wedding was fun and beautiful.

Are day started at 7:00 am as we all had to gather our things to get ready to go to my parents.

Vergie, Danielle, Calinia & I left around 9:30 am to the Mission Inn. When we arrived we met Kathy at the Bridal Suite. Calinia had her hair appointment, and when Villa & Annie arrived we all went to the Spanish Gallery to decorate and the church to add some flowers. When we came back to the room it was already 11:30 am and we had room service deliver food for us for lunch. It was a mad dash getting ready, putting make - up, hair and getting dressed. We made it!

Calinia and Jeni looked beautiful, Joshua and Jared looked so handsome. Katherine and Mike looked so picture perfect. It was a beautiful and simple wedding and the reception was fun.

It was wonderful to be able to share in this beautiful day with Kathy & Mike.

Love to them.

widget

Get Your Own Facebook Scroller Here

KEEPING IT REAL - Driving Around California

So, I have been commuting for about a month now, and it is more obvious now more then ever that though most California's are mindful and respectful it only takes a third of these driver's who are "self absorbed", "it's all about me" attitude that ruin it for the rest of us. It amazes me that they drive in such a dangerous manner and think nothing of it. I wonder if they act like this with those they love, and those they are meeting for the first time. Or am I dealing with those who just become "mad" drivers because they have to get behind the wheel for two hours a day, 5 days a week. It can truly try one's patients. I am thankful that this is only a temporary situation.

KEEPING IT REAL - Katie & Tyler's Wedding

Our weekend was packed and it was a lot of fun. We started with Dinner Rehersal on Friday Night at the Granada Room which is on the premise of the Rancho Bernardo Resort & Spa. It was fun, dinner was good and we ended up meeting all of the wedding party.

Katie & Tyler looked absolutly wonderful. It was a packed evening catching up with friends from out of state. It was fun, and we did not get back to our room until 2:00 am, after we cleaned up all the decorations from the hall.

I was able to take some pictures but not a lot. Still the evening was great.

KEEPING IT REAL - Calinia's 17th Birthday

So the weekend was very good. It started Saturday night, Calinia went out with friends to dinner and a little dancing. The restaurant has a small dance floor and played music, and the kids had fun. They came home late, and Alexa and Jessica spent the night. I know they went to bed late, but we did not even hear them moving around the house.

Sunday morning the kids all came around 10:00 am for breakfast. We left for the skating rink around 12:00 pm and came home around 5:00 pm. The gals all had so much fun and the only guy that was able to come skating was her friend Paul. We catered CPK for dinner and the gals enjoyed that as well. Two other friends John and Evan came over and there were 7 of them who hung out and watched movies. The evening ended around 12:00 pm. Calinia came in and thanked us for the wonderful two days she had.

Today is Labor Day, and the family just slept in and we did nothing but relax and watched videos. It was nice for the family to just rest.

It was fun to see Calinia with her friends, they all are nice. It makes Peter and I happy to see her pick good friends.

We are still trying to comprehend how old she is.

KEEPING IT REAL - Coming up to the End of the Month...

This past week has been a very busy one, with Peter working on the bathroom floor and Calinia getting her dressed fitted, buying a gift for Calinia's birthday, burning CD's for Katie's inlaws and for Ann & Peter, washing cars to prepare for new windshields on both, grocery shopping, we are exhausted.

Alright, we put Calinia's bathroom back together today! Peter finished the floor and put the new toilet down yesterday, he was ready for a day of rest. I had to wipe every wall before I could put anything back up due to the dust that was created from the sanding and grinding of the floor. It came out beautiful and Calinia seems pleased with the results. I know Peter and I are.

Calinia and I went to the movies today and watched House Bunny it was ok. We celebrated Alison and Calinia's birthday at BJ's with the LeComtes for dinner. It was a nice way to end the evening.

It amazes me how we as parents continue to do the things we do and get up the next day and do it all over again. I know that it is GOD who strenghts us when we are weak.

KEEPING IT REAL - Staying In Touch

So when I started this Blog it was purposed to having family and friends keep up to date with us. My friend Nickie tells me that it’s easy and you just figure it out as you go and all this time I have been figuring it out as I go. So, Nickie decides she wants to read it today and looks at me and said that it was confusing, that I needed to change it because it’s not right? I did not know that blogs had a look to them! Did you? Is there a write up on how they are to look, so I can read it and have a blog that is “tight”? I thought the whole purpose was to stay connected and have fun while doing it. So now I am wondering “should I change it or should I keep it”? So if you see changes going on then you will know WHY, I gave into the pressure of having a “tight looking” blog.

In any case, I know all of you have heard of my space and I have avoided it totally. Except at the beginning of the month I was Tagged. It is like My Space, but better because it has more privacy settings. So here I am once again having to figure it out, I hope they don’t have a “look” to these sites as well. If your not on, join us. All you have to do is set up an account and then search for us. Click on us and we can add you to our friend list. Or go direct to my URL: tagged.com/valindah after you register and click on my site and I’ll add you on my list. So far most of the family has joined look forward to seeing all of you on it.

KEEPING IT REAL - Is Summer Gone?

Ok, I woke up this morning and step out of the house to go to work, only to be hit with the air, the temperature, the slight breeze and the trees rustling, I could of closed my eyes and believed it was the beginning of Fall. It was a strange feeling, since we are still in the month of August.

In California it seems to be the hottest month of the year, and yet it was cool today. Since Calinia’s school started on the 12th of this month, it definitely shortend our summer. Although Peter and I worked through most of it, Calinia did quite a bit with different friends, and this was her first summer working.

I don’t know how most families fared this summer due to a lot of layoffs at work and just in the industry as a whole, but we were on a tight budget. What saved it, was spending time with family and friends during the holidays, and with Calinia applying for early admissions with FIDM it filled up those extra days. Could it be that when we blink time really does speed up?

KEEPING IT REAL - Kathy & Mike's Bridal Shower

What a packed day we had! We started our day at 8:30 focused and headed to Los Angeles to the main campus of FIDM. We arrived around 10:00 and had to find the campus. How LA has changed! all these new building going up, and older buildings being taken down. The look of it seemed different from when I use to go when I was younger. We had a small session meeting some graduates, Q&A, then they broke us up into groups. We toured the whole campus which is quite big, we went to all the different media rooms to see what takes place. They even have a Costume Museum showing off Actors and Actress’s clothes they wore in Movies and Television. They have apartment complexes on and next to the campus. We finished up around 2:30 and headed for Riverside for Mike and Kathy’s Bridal Shower.

We reached Riverside around 3:30 and had to stop at the Sub-Station for you guessed it, a sub-sandwich. It is one of the best sandwiches we have ever tasted. It is located in the heart of UCR (University of California Riverside). When I went to College many years ago at UCR it was a place I had dinner all time.

We arrived at Mike and Kathy’s around 4:15, we were the second ones to arrive on time. It must be a Filipino trait to run late, at least for the Pensader family it is. For any of us to be on time, is rare. When we were younger daddy being Military always had us running on time. It has been through the years of getting older and having our own families that has thrown off our timing (what is that about?)
Kathy and Mike welcomed us and had this “shocked” look because we were there on time! The rest of the family wasn’t even there. Jared was and they were playing pool on the new pool table. Kathy informed us that we were playing a game which would involve the whole evening, we were to wear a necklace and if at anytime we cross our arms or legs and someone notices it they can demand the necklace. The one with the most necklaces at the end of the night, WINS! As the family started coming, they were all instructed on how to play the game. Can I tell you it didn’t take long for all of us to lose our necklace to Danielle who was like a hawk watching her prey. I watched her gather every ones necklace through out the night, only to lose them to her dad (Scotty) who was watching her like a hawk! What a surprise that was on her. The evening was fun and full of surprises. We played another game to see how well we knew Kathy, can I tell you I answered all the questions of when she was younger “correct”. All the questions that pertained to her now, none of us had them right. What does that tell you? That was fun, yet an eye opener because it made us realize how much we see her and yet we need to converse more. So I need to make an effort in this area of my life with family and friends.
Came home, it was all a blur, laid my head on my pillow and zzzzzzz.

KEEPING IT REAL - The first week of Senior Year

It has been a busy but good week for Calinia regarding school. It will take her a bit of time to get use to working two days a week plus going to school.

I will now be traveling every Mondays to work in the city of Ontario, it is about an hour from home. I will only have to travel for 3 months, since one of the ladies at work is having her first baby.

We are going to celebrate Kathy & Mikes Bridal shower on Saturday, which I am looking forward to. It is already the middle of August, could it be that when we blink time really does speed up?

KEEPING IT REAL - What beautiful weather we have

Today reminds me of why I live in California. The sun was out the heat was on!. What beautiful blue skies we had with full white fluffy clouds. I am thinking the weather was about 100 degrees. I am glad that I work in a air conditioned building! The one thing I am thankful for is that we do not have the humidity! How great is that.

I noticed that crude oil is down to $120.00 a barrel and I heard that the demand has lessen worldwide, not sure if this is going to make to much of a difference at the pump, yet? We will have to see.

KEEPING IT REAL - August A Big Month!!!

August is here and a lot will be going on. Calinia starts her Senior year on the 12th, and we have an Open House at the High School on the 19th. We have to get her fitted for two Bridesmaid dresses, find two pairs of shoes, attend two Bridal Showers and shop for a wedding gift, and make a “video” wedding gift. We are attending a open house at FIDM on the 16th in Los Angeles. We are doing the flooring in the main bathroom in order to complete it, add a new toilet, and add trim to finish it off. Calinia still has her dance classes to attend.

In the mist of this, Calinia would like to have a sleepover with her girlfriends, which means I have to plan a menu for breakfast, and go Ice Skating the next day. In the meantime she has been driving everywhere in order to get her hours in before she will test for her license in September. Her final driving with her instructor will be the 26th, and then she can set a date to take her driving test. Did I leave anything out? I am sure other things will be added to this mix, I just hope that we can keep it all straight!

KEEPING IT REAL - Calinia is going to FIDM!!!!

Calinia is IN!!! She had her final interview with the Director, it went well. It was a very busy week, she had to do 3 projects and 2 essays and needed 3 references. Bravo, Calinia you did it. You went over and beyond what was asked of you. The Director noticed this. Now we have to line up the financing. Yeah !!!!!!!

KEEPING IT REAL - What's this show call Wipe Out?

Have you seen this show? It is on Tuesday Night's at 8:00 pm. If you want a good hour of laughter you need to watch it! Where do they get the people? It is scary to think that people purposely make themselves look so foolish for millions of viewers to see. I guess that $50,000.00 can make people do crazy things. You should also see the show " I survived a Japanese game show", it is as funny with a different twist. With all the laughter I do on Tuesday night, I am set for the week.

July is almost over, and August is soon approaching. The weather is as usual hot and beautiful.

KEEPING IT REAL- 3 Days at FIDM & San Diego & 4th of July

Our day started early as we checked in Calinia for this 3 day event. It was hard leaving her there, we were glad she met a couple of girls during this whole event. Calinia was there from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. During the whole day I found myself thinking about what she was doing, learning and enjoying. They taught her how to do alot of different things such as drawing and draping, a little bit of Interior Design drafting.
It was kind of a two fold I was missing her yet it was nice not to hear any complaining while Peter and I enjoyed our first day in San Diego.

Peter and I walked 2 days sightseeing all of San Diego from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm and picked up Calinia and we walked more in the evenings and at the end of the day we were so exhausted. By the third day we ended up at Coronado Bay at the Village Pizzaria for lunch and just sat enjoying the view.

The nice part of this all is that Peter and I enjoyed ourselves and each other, Calinia realized something about her future, and she gave us her heartfelt thanks for making this possible. I thank GOD for this part, for we know that HE will provide for college as well.

As for the 4th of July it was great. We had most of the family there, Villa and Mike showed up with Mike's mom Judy. It was great to see them, and to see that Mike looked good. We had alot of food and plenty of dessert and the fireworks were wonderful to see. All we have to do is put our lawn chairs out front and they have them shooting up from the park down the street. It seems like we have front row seats. We also have fun watching people try to park because they come late, they think that they can find parking during the fireworks ( how does that work?)

It was a packed week and a busy weekend but it was fun!

KEEPING IT REAL - Jury Duty

I served Jury Duty for the first time on Tuesday the 10th, it was really interesting. I showed up at 7:45 am on time with many other first timers only to wait until 9:00 am until they took the first 80 juror's. We waited until 2:30 and they released us and they thanked us for serving. It was truly boring just waiting, I did bring a book to read but even that was tough to read after about 3 hours. In any case, I am good until next year, and this is good.

KEEPING IT REAL - New Challenge the Family faces

The family was hit hard with the news we received about Mike, my sister Villa's husband. He has been diagnosed with cancer. The doctors are saying that it is at stage 4, and all they can do for him is chemotherapy. We have sent out to all family & friends for prayer for Mike's healing, and we are believing in restoration for him. When I heard the news I was in disbelief for about a day, it is when I do not understand what is happening that I find comfort in GOD's word. I feel a rush of different feelings for my sister & Mike of compassion and sympathy, sadness, yet hopeful. I want to help be her strenght, but I am reminded when I am weak, Jesus makes me strong. I want to let her know that we are lifting her up in prayers and remind her that she can find peace and comfort in her Heavenly Father's loving arms. Sammy, Crystal and the girls are coming down from Seattle for a week for support and a much needed surge of energy from love ones. I will keep you up to date.

KEEPING IT REAL - June already!!!

The first week of June already in the books. May was so busy that it truly went by so fast.

Calinia finished school last week, and her grades were good as well. As of this week she is officially a Senior in High School ( I want to cry). It is truly hard to believe that she will be graduating next year. We were saying to each other how weird it all seems, because we both remember when she graduated from Kindergarten.

I don't think Calinia has slowed down a bit since school ended, it has been go, go, go. Calinia has been working more since school ended, she has mentioned that all the people she works with are really terrific, that makes us feel good to know that it is a good environment.

June should be a little slower then May and hopefully we can enjoy this month and summer.

KEEPING IT REAL - Calinia's PROM

This was a very emotional day for all of us. As parents we knew this meant a lot to Calinia and for Calinia this was a day she waited to experience. The young man she went with Jacob has been a friend since Freshman year. The story goes like this: Calinia decided at the last minute to go by herself since her friend Daniel did not want to go. As she was purchasing her ticket, Jacob was there getting his and he was going by himself. They talked and the next thing you know they were going to go together.

We had to hurry and find a dress; we only had a week to shop! The whole world seemed to stop until we did. We went to all the stores that carry prom dresses and a lot of the styles Calinia knew her friends already had. At the last minute she decides to purchase a short dress, with a little leopard print. It was soft because the colors were muted grey and black. It was beautiful on her. Next the shoes, I was hoping it was not going to be a big ordeal like the dress and it wasn't, Calinia knew what she wanted.

Calinia made appointments to have her hair done in the morning and make-up in the afternoon. I was able to leave early from work to meet them there as they did her make-up. Peter was the one driving her everywhere, getting her there on time, and best friend Alexa was around for support. Through all this it was nice that she showed appreciation for the both of them.

All the gals met at a beautiful park in order for the parents to take pictures, it was a first for all of us. They all looked beautiful, and Jacob looked handsome. We took more pictures of them entering the limousine which picked them up at the home of one of Calinia's friend. From the house the limousine took them to the Port of Long Beach, where they would get onto a small yacht moving around the bay for the evening. As they drove off, Peter made a comment to me "This evening will create a memory that will be with her forever". All the parents stood watching until we could no longer see the limousine, it was then one parent said let's pray. It is times like this that we remember who they really belong to.

We picked her up at 1:30 am, and she was so exhausted, all she said was she had fun. It wasn't until late that day when she woke up to tell us all that happened.

KEEPING IT REAL - What is with the weather & Gas?

So, was today a freaky day or what? I was at work when I looked up and noticed black clouds looming over our building and then low and behold, it just opened up and released everything it was holding! I was thinking what is this? Were you thinking the same thing? Then I hear that there were Tornado's in Moreno Valley, now I have to call my Dad & Mom tomorrow to see how they are doing. What a crazy day!

Then I have to ask what is with the gas prices? I paid $3.87 a gallon is this crazy or what? I was reading an article about how Bush asked the Saudi's to release a spigot, and then how the Senate Approprations Committee refused to end its moratorium oil shale development in Colorado. Democrats opposed the shale proposal 15 to 13. I can't see why they would do this, but they did. Can you believe that crude is up by $133.00 a barrel! What is going on here?

It seems like everything is going up except my pay, can I vote for a pay raise just like Congress does?

KEEPING IT REAL - Dad & Mom's 50th Anniversary

Ok, so it took me only two weeks to get this out to all of you, my apologies. We took some really great pictures of this special family event. I could only tell you that my dad and mom were so happy to be with the family, and for those who couldn't make it you missed an awesome celebration.

I am glad I could share this with you. See the bottom for pictures and click on link for more pictures.

KEEPING IT REAL - Happy Mothers Day...

It was a very exhausting Mother's Day for all of us Pensader girls. Daddy & Mommy's Anniversary celebration was last night, it was so beautiful. It was wonderful to see them renew their wedding vows, and then to be with all those that we love made it even more special. I have to go through all the pictures, before I post them and you can re-live the memories with us.

A special friend Danny came out today to take me and the family out to breakfast. It was nice to spend the day with him and to relax as well.

I called my mom today and she was well rested from yesterday, and Vergie & Scott took the two of them out to lunch. I called Annie and she was laying down and she was commenting on how sore she was, maybe it's because she was all over the dance floor dancing every dance. Then again I seem to remember all of us on the dance floor trying to dance every dance as well.

I hope that every mom had a great Mother's Day, remember let's not wait for a holiday to have to tell those we love how much we appreciate them.

KEEPING IT REAL - Winding up for the big event...

So, we are in the final steps of preparations for my parents big day. I finally finished, produced & copied the DVD's. We are all ready for tomorrow, I know that dad & mom are excited. It will be nice to see everyone tomorrow. I will be very busy taking pictures & video tomorrow.

Well, that is it for now.

KEEPING IT REAL - Two weeks of working & Calinia is enjoying it

Today, will be two weeks for Calinia working at CPK, she likes it. All the people she works with are all nice, and she even likes all of her managers! Isn't that great!

They have her working weekends which is good because during the week she has to do her school work. Although she only has 30 more days of school, FINALS are just around the corner.

It is hard to believe that it is already MAY! It's like you blink and the months are gone, I always have to remind myself "Am I enjoying the journey?" I do try to do something for myself at least once a week, it has to be something that stretches my abilities and expands my thinking. I know that is why I like oil painting, if I could I would paint all day. One day that will happen.

Anyways, it is 12:05 A.M. I need to go to bed, or I will be one tired women tomorrow ( oh, I mean today).

KEEPING IT REAL - Time is running out on making my video

One week as of today, we will be celebrating my Dad & Mom's 50th Anniversary.

The past two months I have been separating, scanning, 50 years of pictures. Thank you LORD for digital camera's & digital movie camera's. It has simplified the past 10 years of my life. I have been the picture & movie historian for the family for at least 20 years, what memories I have.

So here I am this evening putting the final pictures & transitions on the movie video I am working on. I must be tired because I am thinking, I can take one music tune from my itunes to put into my movie, low & behold my efforts are locked. I never even thought about the "apple" program working with "Microsoft". Can you believe it!!!! I wanted to SCREAM!!! So I had to walk away from my computer and breath really deep before I could start over again. So, I know my week is going to be very busy and very tiring. I am reminded that "when I am weak, CHRIST makes me strong".

I know that the results will be absolutely worth all the work I will have put in. To see my parents faces when they are reminded of what a beautiful life they have lived and continue to live is all I need to see.

KEEPING IT REAL - Lights, Camera, Action

On Saturday, the family got together to take pictures for Dad & Mom's Anniversary picture.

We took alot of pictures and had a casual dinner, and just enjoyed each other's company. I think that we are all getting excited about the celebration taking place in May. The family had a garage sale this morning, I had to work but they said it went well. They were all so tired since they had to get up around 5:00 am to get ready for it.

Today, Calinia started her job at CPK. I just picked her up and she really thinks it's going to be a good place to work. We are so glad for her. It is such a strange feeling knowing that she is growing up, and now part of the work force. Crazy

KEEPING IT REAL - Spring at Last

The weather the past few weeks have been extreme. The mornings have been very cold and bit foggy & some mornings there is even frost on our neighbors roof tops! The days have been hot and some days you need to turn your air conditioner on. With this type of weather it has also been very challenging on the families sinus's.

We just found out yesterday when Ann called me to let me know that Katie wants Calinia to be one of her bridesmaids in her wedding. Katie has yet to call Calinia to ask her, this afternoon she did call but Calinia was at school. We (Ann, Alison, Calinia & I) are suppose to go to La Jolla on Friday to get the dresses fitted, since Katie already payed for them. So Calinia is a bridesmaid for two special cousins, on their special day.

Saturday, the family (Pensader) are coming over to take pictures for Dad and Mom's Wedding Gift. They wanted to use our house for the family picture. It will be nice to have everyone over. I still have to get the Family Movie together, it has been wonderful seeing all the old pictures.

KEEPING IT REAL - It's been a busy week

It has once again been a busy week.

Since Calinia took her first test drive, Peter and I have been driving around town with her and daily she improves.

Since then she also was hired at CPK as a hostess, we are excited for her because she will be learning so much. It will also give her a sense of accomplishment with each task and responsibility that is given to her.

KEEPING IT REAL- College & Driving "slow down"

On Friday the 28th the family did a day trip to OC to see FIDM. We started our day around 9:00 A.M. and we did not get home until 8:00 P.M. Our drive out there went well, using the toll roads from the 91 Fwy to get to OC was well worth it!

We arrived around 10:30 A.M. and met with Calinia's counselor Roxie. It was so much like an interview, questions, finding out what she liked, more questions and then finding a field in which matched what she was wanting to do. A very interesting process, she helped Calinia develope a plan, and an accountability program to keep her on tract. We also talked about the cost, it was not a surprise, since I knew someone who wanted to send her daughter there last year. This whole process is so new, and we are glad we are starting now. Roxie gave us a tour of the school and it was very impressive, and in total we spent three and a half hours with her. I know that it was a bit overwhelming for Calinia because she said it was, as we drove off. We all noticed two things that could only be GOD, first, that she was Filipino and second she mentioned that she was a believer. We had more in common than even we knew.

We ended up at Fashion Island, and walked around a while. We ended our day at the Rain Forest Cafe, and just enjoyed each other's company. It was really quite an experience, I know we will do more of this in the next 8 months.

On Saturday, Calinia started her driving school. We found out that her teacher took her on all the busy streets in town plus the freeway! Peter said that they did not even have a sign on the car that said "Student Driver". How scary is that! It is so hard for us because all of this is happening to fast. I know that we can't slow down time with our daughter, but we can continue to do what we've been doing, which is spending quality time and making memories with her.

KEEPING IT REAL - Easter was great

Easter weekend started with a crosswalk that the city of Temecula & Murrieta celebrate. It is a two mile walk that many churches in the area participate in. It is in remembrance and acknowledgement of what our LORD JESUS did for us. Alison joined us with one of her Pioneer Girls, Katie. We had a good amount of time to catch up. We had lunch and went to see Alison & Brett's new apartment, which is in a great location!

I had to work on Saturday from 9 am to 7 pm, it was a good and productive day.

Sunday was great, we went to church service. We had lunch at my Dad & Mom's for Easter, it was nice. The food was great. It was fun sitting around the table looking at all the old pictures, the fashion, the haircuts, how time has changed. I even had a chance to hold baby Lana, who cried at first but was willing to give me a kiss before she left. The day was beautiful and the family visit was fun. I am reminded that it is times like this, that count.

Remember why will celebrate Easter

More Comments and Myspace Layouts at pYzam.com

KEEPING IT REAL - College?

Today is going to be a big day for Calinia and 16 of her classmates. Calvary is on Easter vacation, and for the next two days, these students will be visiting 3 College Campus's today, they will stay overnight in Orange County, and visit 3 campus's tomorrow. It is hard to believe that we are in search of a College. Calinia will be a Senior next year, so now is the time to start looking.

It really seems like a short time ago, that I was watching her learn to walk, learn to read, learn to spell, and in the next two weeks we will be teaching her how to drive! I know that some of my friends have kids already past this stage, and are reflecting on how they felt. I have some friends who aren't even there yet, so it will be something to look forward to, in regards to adjusting to the very thought "that our kids are growing up.

I am enjoying Calinia, as a teenager. Yes, she has her moments and so do we but overall our daughter is an awesome person to know. I try to let her know this very thought, for I know it is important for her to understand that she is special.

Right now, I am adjusting one day at a time in preparation that one day our daughter will be on her own, (not alone, but on her own). The comfort I have is knowing that GOD is watching over her, and I know she realizes this as well.

Everyday, I try and remind her that change is good, embrace it and enjoy it.

KEEPING IT REAL-Investing in Friends

Sunday was a nice day for the family. Went to Church and Pastor’s sermon was “why we need friends”. In Romans 16 it is Paul who is acknowledging those he had invested time with, he could of know them personally or just through letters. It was quite good, it made me feel good that I was making a real effort doing just this. I had made a decision to put more time into friendships about six months ago, because I had taken a 4 year leave of absence from this. I figured I had a good amount of solid friends, why make more? Then I realized that life changes people, and people change. So my long time friends are still friends and I could pick up the phone and we could talk about the things going on in our lives in of a couple of hours. We realize that we are in different stages in our lives, that is why we have drifted apart but we still know that we are there for each other.

The friendships I am now making, are different. Different because I am not the same. Like I said, life has a way of changing us. I have had my share of good times and tough times (like now) and I am reminded that GOD has a way of refining me. The friends I have been blessed with right now have been encouraging and we hold each other accountable. Our conversations go to deeper levels of “who we are inside”, we pray for each other and our situations, no negative thoughts, words, come out of our mouths if it does not edify one another. Imagine this, we can even have a conversations without talking about someone, now that is a new level of friendship. Trust me, we miss the mark, and we have to apologize for entertaining the conversation and we move forward.

I have to ask, as I was asked, do you have a special friend/friends who love you so much they hold you accountable when it comes to your character? When you are confronted by your behavior that was less favorable are you willing to hear your friend out, and receive what is being said? Are you surrounded by a lot of people you think are friends, when they really are just acquaintances? As the seasons come and go, so do friendships. The friendships I remember the most, were the ones who gave of their time, their smile, their laughter & tears and most of all their ability to care. I know that these are some of the qualities of a good friend, but these are the ones I remember the most.

KEEPING IT REAL - between the pets

It was such a beautiful day today, what I did see of it. I did work, and Susan and I even had two clients! We were excited.

Anyways, as I was cooking dinner tonight, mini cooper (our Miniature Doberman Pincher) was in the kitchen with me. Next thing that happens: Enzo (our Parakeet) started to chirp (He really sounds like he calls Mini by name), she runs, slides and jumps barking at him. I get mad tell her to stop or she goes to the bad girl box. She stops, looks at me and gives me a piece of her little thoughts. Enzo, is quite while this goes on. Mini disappears for a bit, and Enzo starts this all over again, we do this about three times, each time Enzo gets even louder. Thank goodness Peter comes home and now Mini is happy because there is someone else to play with. I have to wonder if they understand each other, because it seems like it is choreographed so well between them.

As I am typing this, Mini is jumping up as she is whinning wanting me to pick her up and put her on my lap. Calinia is at the movies and I know Mini is missing her. How is it that these creatures who can't speak, can truly make there feelings known.

KEEPING IT REAL - What's with the cost?

So today I had to change my insurance policy because we have to cut down on our expenses going out, we needed to go with a policy that we could afford. Peter and I have always paid for our own insurance, even when we worked for other companies. I always wanted to keep the PPO, instead of HMO. As we get older, the cost seems to go higher (Surprise). So you can imagine what our insurance cost is, we have a co-pay and it's a 30/70 pay when you go to see other doctors (so on). Our monthly payment was $650.00 a month, since we had to get a catastrophic policy we pay 20/80 and we now have to pay for the doctors visit up until we hit our deductible. We were able to cut it in half!! Can you believe the cost of insurance? I don't know if you all realized that I did get my license for selling Life & Health insurance, the statement I heard from the teacher was "the insurance company is in the business of making money". I ended up getting my license, but found that I could not sell it knowing what I knew. I have friends who sell insurance and that good for them, but it wasn't good for me.

A co-worker who's little 14 month old son was air lifted to a San Diego hospital (two days ago), they were told that neither parent could fly with him. They arrived at the hospital 30 minutes later by car, only to find there son crying, as he was hooked up to an IV and on a bed that had a cage over it (I guess it was for him not wandering away while being hooked up?) A small light was on and the door was closed. Could you imagine seeing your child like that?

I keep having to remind myself that one day when we are in heaven, there will be none of this. Until then, I just have to keep paying.

KEEPING IT REAL - Are you the last to know?

Ok, so this morning Calinia comes to Peter and I to let tell us something. This is how the conversation went:
Calinia: “I heard it thru the grapevine, that on Saturday that they are celebrating Lana’s birthday”
Us: “where did you hear that”
Calinia: “Crystal”
Us: “Huh, she’s in Seattle, WA.”
Calinia : “I know, that’s what I heard, are we going”
Us: “Did we get invited?”
So this morning, at work I call my sister Annie to find out what the deal is. (I am laughing as I write this.) She informs me that Villa (our sister) knew before she did, we laughed because Annie is Grandma to Lana and is the last to know about her grand-daughters birthday party. How funny is that?

The story goes like this, the email was sent out about 10:30 p.m. last night. It is a last minute plan but the request is that Valerie and Ray would love the family to be there. Are you kidding miss out on this baby girls first birthday party! Now because it was a last minute plan: I have to be strategic about what I have to do. I have an appointment at 2:00 p.m. I’m hoping we can final by 4:00 or I’ll have to rush them out the door. Calinia has dance at 5:00 and her best friends birthday dinner/movie is at 6:30 p.m. I am sure I can go in between all the rushing around. Peter already said that if he doesn’t work on Saturday he’s going without me. What‘s that about? I want to go.

Final note, I do realize that Valerie and Ray’s work week changes from week to week, and to even begin to plan anything would only have to be a spontaneous event. So I do understand how it is. I think that is how all of our family get togethers have always been.

I just thought of something else, have to share. When we saw Jeni Tsu one weeks ago, she was SHOCKED to find out that Joshua was married about nine months ago and here she is just finding out. Is that crazy or what?

So, don’t get your feelings hurt if you think you’re the last to know, because your not.

KEEPING IT REAL - Where do the days go?

Ok, this morning I realized that it was Tuesday, and I have Bible studies tonight. I still have a weeks worth of homework to do. So I ask myself "where did the day go?". It seems like the days turn into weeks, then into months, then the next thing you know, a whole year has passed!!! What just happened?

I already get up at 5:30 am to excercise, read a chapter in my Bible for a positive day. I am at work by 8:30 am, 9:00 am if I want breakfast. I leave work by 4:30/5:00 pm and if I am fortunate I won't have alot of little errands to do after work. I try to limit going out at night, as I can only handle two nights, three is pushing it. I hurry home change into my comfortable pajamas, try to make a quick dinner if I feel like it, try to relax before it's bedtime, it doesn't even seem like I sleep. Then I start this all over again, four more days just like this one!!! On my two days off I am cleaning house, doing laundry, going grocery shopping. I ask myself can I skip one of these task and if I do what will happen. Sound familiar? I even have a couple of girlfriends who have 2 to 3 kids and they have sport activities to go to on top of this already busy schedule!!! Hello, is it any wonder why we feel our days go by so fast.

Peter and Calinia also have such a busy schedule that we feel it's like a hit and miss with regards to seeing each other. We do make it a priority to have at least a movie night together, just being in the same room with one another makes us feel good.

By the end of the night, we always give thanks in prayer that we are all home safely. At the end of the week I am so tired, but I am reminded that GOD's grace is sufficient (2 Cor. 12:9)

So is this how are days are spent? I wonder if we made an effort to venture outside our schedule to deepen our relationship's with loved ones, would that make the day more meaningful. I think that would be the case. So what if the laundry doesn't get done, go spend some time visiting your parents, it'll make them feel good, and you'll be surprise at how good you feel. So what if the house isn't spotless, spend some time playing a game with the kids.

I'm finding that doing the same mundane things over and over again, makes me miss out on the important things in this life. If I took my own advise, maybe then I wouldn't have to ask "where did the day go".

KEEPING IT REAL

Hi to all Family and Friends that have signed on to find out what has been happening to our Family.

I have decided to start this blog because today we attended a dear friend's Funeral Service. It made me think about how much time passed, since we spoke to her last. Our families shared a business venture together, and when we dissolved it, we went our own ways. We would speak to them every year and promise to get together for dinner. That never happened, life just happened.

It made me wonder, how good a friend I must be. I asked myself why didn't we get together. Why was I always so busy. I realize that it goes both ways, what I was forgetting is that time is truly a precious commodity.

It was then I decided that I needed to start this blog. So that if I couldn't call each and everyone of you, you could check in with what's been happening with us, and then you could write back to let us know what you have been doing.

So I will daily try to update what has been going on until I can get you caught up.