Cienna - 16 Years 11 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 14 Years 6 Month Old!

Sleepover with the Water's including face paint and videos. Next got to see June play amazingly at her Softball College Showcase in Riverside. We took Grace back with us for a fun night of nails, food, fun and skateboarding. The rest of the Natal's joined the next day to visit and chill before their drive home. Cienna went for a Friendsgiving and then we followed the Natal's up North the following morning to visit more family for Thanksmas.

The roadtrips were pretty long this year. On the way up Dad had to work most of the time, but did take a different route that put us close to Stanford, so we detoured to do a self tour. Even found their gymnastics facility. We crossed the Golden Gate, and went through the rainbow tunnel.

We arrived at Grammy's first. We had a relaxing evening full of music and fun. The next day she took us on a self tour of Safari West, great lunch, and Fountain Valley views. We all had one of the best games of Jenga that night.

Following day we enjoyed the beautiful morning weather, walked the dogs and headed to hang out with Darcie. The girls all had lunch before going to the gym for a fun workout at SRGC! We always fill so welcomed and at home when we are there!

Off to Poppa's we went. Again, after hearing about all the rain which we were expecting, we saw none of it. We did get a wonderful frost field in the morning and were ready for the first Thanksmas. The Marty's and Grammy arrived to join us, Poppa, and Heather. We already had a spread going and it only grew with more food, fun activities, and decorations! It was so great that we got to enjoy the day in the Cabana all together. We also made good use of the new Pickle Ball court. The dogs had a great time together with Duke, and Maxwell. We were spoiled with gifts, but mostly enjoyed being together.

Following morning we were on the road again to the Natal's with the McFarland's. The second Thanksmas was underway. Unfortunately Auntie Carrie didn't get to join. They have finished their backyard which looks amazing and has such a relaxing feel. More Pickle Ball in the front court followed by a flag football game. So much more delicious food of all sorts, including bountiful deserts! We all got in the batting cages, which was a first, or a first in a long time for all. There was a dance off, gift opening, and backyard basketball before an all cousin sleepover. The next morning Grammy came back and we had a nice walk and chilled a bit before the treacherous drive home.

No fun stops this time, but were re-routed through a path that we've never done before. Over long winded roads we finally peaked back up near Magic Mountain and were very happy to be done with the drive and back home.

The rest of the month had plenty of Chorus performances. The first was Cienna's Chamber and Vocal Point singing at the Forest Lawn Cemetery helping to remember those who have passed. She also joined the Brief family for their very long tradition of leading the Seal Beach parade with their Kazzo band. Next was singing in the Belmont Shore parade where the rest of the family took Nicki to watch. We all went to Legends for dinner before the parade began. It was the 40th anniversary, and was so much fun to watch. Afterward, Mom and Dad were invited to the Adams family for a fun time with friends.

We finally got a break to start figuring out Christmas decorations. We started with outside. Then more Chorus concerts. The girls had many rehearsals, and many performances. They had great time management and actually fit in extra gymnastics for the times that they were missing for chorus. They are preparing for the upcoming season starting early January.

Dad and Mom took an adventure for one date night to Old World Village with Step and Roman for some German food. Mom had fun at the anual Y Staff party. Cienna had her first monthly Long Beach Youth Leadership meeting. We continued Christmas prep by getting a tree and the living room prepared for inside decorations. Girls invited all Optional Team over to work on the "Holiday Show" and have fun roaming the neighborhood making videos.

Then the final week of school began before the two week Christmas break!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/Zt9KgtEukKRnHTtJA

Cienna - 16 Years 10 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 14 Years 5 Months Old!

So many trips apart but were always together and loved sharing the experiences! First weekend... Mom left for Santa Rosa for her 30th High School Reunion. Dad drove her to Burbank for an easy Uber to Grammy's house from Santa Rosa Airport.

Meanwhile Cienna got a ride to the bus heading to Camp Oaks in Big Bear (Her first out of two this month). She was headed to an amazing retreat with her Chamber Choir Group. They even stopped on the way to the Integratran near Joshua Tree and were guided to sing along with the toning bowls. That was one of the many times the got learning experiences not only through singing but team building as a choir has to learn to sing together! She also made friends with Chef Mike because the food was delicious, and they got to be there for his Birthday, so they got to sing their famous Happy Birthday song to him.

From Grammy's, mom met up with Jenna and Vera to head down to 3rd St. to meet up with almost everyone the was going to be at the reunion. We called it a rehearsal. It was really good to see everyone, and it was so easy for all of us to be together again! Gosh we are lucky to have those kinds of friendships.

Then Saturday Dad and Kaylee made a trip of their own up to Big Bear for a day in down town and enjoying Greg's cabin with the birds and ice cream. They made the most of their trip which meant an early morning since the main reason for them being there was because Cienna had to be picked up bright and early on Sunday morning to get back to a Youth and Leadership of Long Beach Orientation that was mandatory.....

Saturday, Mom had so much fun with amazing girl friends at Jenna's parents’ home. More friends joined before we all headed down the street to the reunion @ the Flamingo. Not even funny how much we all got along and enjoyed the fun, music, and dancing!

Cienna was still singing at Camp Oaks and learning some Archery, Choir bonding, and team building with ropes courses, making up skits, and enjoying the scenery!

Even Dad and Kaylee got up way too early and saw one of so many beautiful sunsets this month to make sure Cienna got to the Orientation, trust me it was all worth it. They made it in time and were all super tired. But they each got to be involved in the beginning and Cienna had her first great time meeting with the kids that were accepted into this leadership group!

We were all back together after mom made it back from the airport and then it was spirit week at school. The girls were prepared with the clothes they wanted to wear!  Mom was then headed for another plane for a work trip the whole next week which she had just learned about right before her first flight to SR. It was a successful trip for work and the girls had great outfits all week leading up to the 80's themed homecoming dance.

After a big work week, Mom got to join Dad and make it home to watch Cienna and her friends sing/do an amazing performance for the half time show of the Home Coming game!

I think Halloween was up next. The girls were ready. They had both school and Halloween night costumes ready. But first we supported the little team gymnasts for some games and fun at the gym. Mom and Dad went out for dinner with Marshall's and Knobe's own little Oktoberfest. Then Cienna and Kaylee went to the Pa's Pumpkin Patch with Clara and Paige to get some pumpkins and apparently a bunch of pictures..... When they got back the girls did a fantastic job carving pumpkins.

At school Cienna went as "When Life Gives You Lemons", and Kaylee was a "Frat" boy with a bunch of friends. Then for Halloween, Cienna was "Lemon Drop" from Strawberry Shortcake with a bunch of buddies, and Kaylee was ALVIN from Alvin and the Chipmunks with Nicki and Adi.

Most of us minus Cienna went to Marshall's and loved the bonfire and handing out candy as the crazy ones walked about the neighborhood. Cienna made her own crazy in the next neighborhood.

Pretty cool that there is an entire half of a month to go. Good for you for reading further. (For you MR your trip is coming up)

Both girls had some picture days for Music. Mom had an amazing time meeting the rest of Coach Betsy's family at her baby Shower. So many great games and food! Excited to meet both the Gonzalez's newborns soon! (Best wishes Betsy and Gloria)

Then Cienna had another retreat to Camp Oaks in Big Bear. This time with Youth Leadership Long Beach. She said it was an amazing experience. It was more about being you and a leader, with team bonding that pushed you to limits. Right up her alley! She made so many friends… as she does, going in knowing few and coming out being great friends with all!

Before she got home Dad got another opportunity to go up North for work to meet with his new work force! He went for a longer trip than originally planned but made the most out each day he was there. There were rewarding interactions with groups that he is close with and some that he had just met. They had other team-building experiences that didn't involve a trust fall but were still thought provoking and a Meta Ray Ban glasses scavenger hunt. Which his team won! Also, some inspirational speeches and experiences. Included nice accommodation and good food!

We were all happy to have Dad back last weekend. We made plenty of great food... Of course, including Ribs, and we had a great time enjoying each other! We even got the girls’ school pictures done to pass out as we headed up North for Thanksgiving week.

We look forward to the quieter time of the holidays 😄

Lucky to have so many friends and family to love and enjoy!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/PZP1QtpKBcw652jf7

Cienna - 16 Years 9 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 14 Years 4 Months Old!

Here we go again! Always good! Dad was off at his onboarding experience for his new position at Meta in Menlo Park while Mom took the girls optional team to the Gold Over America Tour with Simone Biles at the Crypto Center VIP style. Mom then took Kaylee and Nicki to watch Adi in her first Choir Concert of the year at Los Alamitos. It was so well done and Adi shined as always. When Mark got back home, we installed some white boards for college planning, squeezed in a LA Force soccer game with the Marshalls, and went to celebrate Erin's Birthday with good friends for an adult dinner out.

Only a few days later Mark was on another adventure to celebrate Uncle B's 50th Birthday. He set of to Nashville first and got to see Brandon's beautiful home and family of 4. Brandon toured him around town, and then they were off to Germany for Octoberfest! A world traveler! A load of food, fun, and activities all packed in to a couple of amazing days later they came back with experiences that will last a lifetime!

Meanwhile us girls did some bike rides, made food and crafts together as we navigated the weekly life of work, school, and gym! Kaylee was also invited as Emery's only invitee for her first time getting her nails done at the salon for her 11th Birthday. 

Dad came back, we did some habanero dehydrating since we got more than expected, but love it. Girls had fun watching their football team win some games on Friday nights after gym. Cienna is running the show down on the field with her ASB buddies, and Mom and Dad went to their first game against the most challenging opponent...Poly (which is the school that two of their gym teammates go too...also went to the game) Millikan won for the first time in 50 years!

On a separate note, Cienna enjoyed Shawna's 17th Birthday party on another boat excursion in the bay. As well as a beautiful fall theme birthday for Lily. She applied for Youth Leadership Long Beach, filled out an extensive application, did interviews, and got accepted!

Dad headed back up to MPK for another work trip where he had planning meetings with his team and got to play with kittens in the mall (a fun suggestion from his manager, Manal). Mom had a great time representing the gymnastics family at Betsy's Baby shower. Excited for both her and Gloria's little girls to arrive soon. Nacho cheese on hot Cheetos and all : )

Loved watching and listening to the girls very first concert of the year. Kaylee nailed her first high school performance and Cienna was the finishing act. Even had a duet as the second highest Soprano some how (she has many vocal ranges)! With Francesca also in both Cienna's vocal classes, they almost make up half of their gym team, and so of course the rest of their team showed up to support!

Cienna showed up to take her PSAT, but the Wi-Fi wasn't cooperating...postponed. Really early the morning of the 18th, Dad took mom to the airport to head up north for her 30th High School Reunion while Cienna went of to Camp Oaks for a retreat with her Concert Choir! Kaylee went to school, and Dad came back to work for the beginning of a very busy weekend for all.

Mom cruised into SR, took an Uber to Grammy's, exercised before bothering Jenna and V. We all then went downtown to meet up with AMAZING people and friends that it's been to long since we've seen! More on that next next month!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/9D6e5Cexs6KEuipY6

Cienna - 16 Years 8 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 14 Years 3 Month Old!

Time passes quickly. Didn't even realize we were late, but we'll pretend like it was 4 days ago. With the summer nearing the end we heard of a pretzel festival in HB that we were excited to go together as a family. The line was out the door so we opted for going to BJ's since they have a great pretzel anyway. Because next was the inevitable start to the school year. Cienna had her Junior orientation then Kaylee with her Freshman introduction to High School! We weren't ready to take is seriously quite yet, so the girls packed in one last sleepover with the Waters, and we planned an amazing Staycation for just the four of us!

We booked the weekend at a fantastic resort in Dana Point. We spent the first day relaxing at the pool, eating great food, playing corn hole and ping pong, doing scheduled crafts and being together. The next morning we ventured to RJ's Cafe at the Marina, all walking distance, before our family parasailing adventure. The guides and captain were all part of a family and made it an even better experience. We finished that day at the beach and of course with ice cream. We went back to the Marina in the morning for breakfast on our way back to the reality of home and the start of the school year.

A little nerves, but mostly just the excited kind for the first day of school! Although back at the same school together, different start times leads to more trips back and forth. We almost bought a car, still in the market, to lessen the commuting since we do have that extra driver. Kaylee went through the process of getting in to Gymnastics for PE at school since her original schedule had her in regular PE, and that didn't sound as appealing to her : )

Since there seems to be a three day weekend just a couple of day after school starts given the proximity to Labor Day, we even made some time to work on the Bronco together. We finally figured out how to fix our Summer Time air horn tune. It was just a couple of mixed up hoses. We also Had the Marshalls over for dinner and a nighttime bike ride to Handels. Cienna even came up with a cool idea for her friends to do at the beach. She brought a bunch of Canvas and paint supplies for them to enjoy some art on the beach along with the sunshine and each others company.

Millikan has a pretty great Football student section, think they're rated pretty high on the awesome scale. Cienna enjoys being in ASB and get to hype up the crowd from the track around the field. They had they're black out game, Kaylee's first as an actual Millikan Ram! We also got to puppy sit Lacy for the evening, and then another sleepover happened, at Julia's this time. Always ending in free Crispy Cream doughnuts. The following Friday was another football game which they did white out since it was supposed to be an away game but the other team came to us due to fires in their area.

Last but not least we celebrated Nicki's 15th birthday. She had all her buddies meet at the beach for fun and a sunset, Mark and I helped pick them all up and drop them off at the Marshall's for firepit, tramp, and hot tub time. We then had both Adi and Nicki over at our place for a Three Musketeer sleepover! They were excited to have so much time together the following day. Cienna also went that day on a boat ride in Naples which Shawna invited her and some other close friends for a special day out on her Uncle's boat.

Then Daddy was of on an adventure for his new hire orientation in Menlo Park! We are so proud of him and are happy that he is now part of the Meta team. He is such a hard worker in everything he does and deserves everything that comes to him. They are lucky to have him, just like us...well we're more lucky. The beginning of the trip was a success, and Cienna took on more driving responsibilities while Mom was at work.

Bring on What's next!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/hmxmELpMzHMRmihr9

Cienna - 16 Years 7 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 14 Years 2 Month Old!

After the amazing vacations, we figured relaxing and doing nothing was the way to go.... didn't happen so much. Maybe a little. The final showcase for the girls Acting Out Camp started it all off. They had such a great time and are now the old timers in the camp even though Kaylee originally was let in before meeting the minimum age! Sadie came to town which warranted a "all in" one gym and sibling sleepover at our house! Lots of games, smores, food and fun. Some sleep.... Next day of course, Cienna had another sleepover with best buds from school. She even got layers in her hair, curliness is amazing. Of course free doughnuts, and Local Grinds in the morning.

Cienna had her first of two weeks of ASB workshops, in the middle of which we all went to San Diego for a Level 9/10 Region 1 Gymnastics camp. Also took that opportunity to hang out with the Sklenicka's! They were awesome enough to put us up for the night as well as feed us! We had so much fun catching up and the camp was a great opportunity to learn and win the dance competition! Cienna stood up her double full and Kaylee made her front full/front full. They both did their release moves on bars after a while of not practicing those skills.

Mom got to go to work a couple days at 3am during the weekend, but it was pretty fun and a good experience. Learned more about astronomy and got to solve problems. Clara came over for some painting. The end result of what Cienna and her accomplished was remarkable.

Cienna went to Irvine for a team building ASB camp. Ropes course, hikes, camp fire plays, and good food. Kaylee got her nails done by Ashley as we are learning to do are own while accumulating all the stuff to make it happen. Way less expensive and more fun than the nail salon.

Gym sleepover started the girls next weekend with no sleep before heading to San Diego again. Mom brought them half way to meet up with Shirly (Marshall's Grandma) who brought them to their home in Del Mar Heights for a weekend of pool time, good food, San Diego Zoo, sunsets, hikes, and so much more. They're already planning on the same trip together next summer.

Next preparation for upcoming school orientations and spirit wear sales. The Optionals also convinced Coach George to bring them onto the very high YMCA gymnastics center roof to watch the sunset all together. There were some good pictures, some questionable ladder climbing, and of course some handstand pictures involved!

The annual team gymnastics award ceremony and following dinner and pool party was the next hit. The girls and their team got their All American jackets, personalized rings, and matching Nike shoes to wear to competitions along with their awards for the other accomplishments of the season!

We wanted to end the blog month with a pretzel festival in Huntington Beach, but when we arrived it seemed as if there was no end in sight of the entry line. So we made our own pretzel excursion to BJ's. It was delicious and fun to all be together for the afternoon!

Photos and videos are pretty good with animal and sunset shots as well as one of Mark in lederhosen.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/4mukT4FvA8x4HTV67

Cienna - 16 Years 6 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 14 Years 1 Month Old!

Didn't think it could be more than last month. Let's go! Pre Nationals gym good luck practice. More time with Grammy, including a trip to Altar Society with Mark. She bid us farewell and we took of down the street for first stop from LGB to Chicago. Enjoyed each other in the airport for hours then got to Philly! We were quite later than expected, but got a blue Jeep for the week. After a couple hours of sleep the girls had their first equipment touch in the morning. This was followed by a fun opening ceremony including Dance party, great speakers, and Coach George entering the Dad's dance competition in front of everyone and WON!

Next day was the girls All around competition. They had a great time and both qualified in all four events the following day.  We spent the time before the event finals in downtown with Water's and Donlon's. Rocky Steps, Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, then Reading Terminal for food. Full of history and good food. The Event finals went great, the Champion level that the girls competed got first place team award, both girls got titled All American for being in the top 8 All around of their division. We celebrated with an ice cream party with all teammates in the hotel lobby! Off to NY! 

We definitely made the most out of our time on the East Coast with help from others that have been there since it was our first time. We got there Mon. evening and walked to Central Park, met up with gym friends, got halfway through and came back to hotel in Manhattan with view of Time Square, then all went to Juniors for dinner for the best Cheesecake. Ventured Time Square for a Messi birthday parade and some break dancing. Ended at the M&M factory before bed and a big next day.

Subway to Stanton Island Ferry for view of Statue of Liberty, walk to World Trade Center via Wall Street with Water's and had lunch at Stage Door Pizza, World Trade Center guided Tour! Highly recommended. Subway back up to Empire States Building all the way up to the 102nd floor. Saw Maddison Square Garden, cruised through Rockefeller Center, and Radio City, then happen to catch a Broadway show "Wicked" a hop skip and a jump from our hotel! It was beautifully done and so much fun. Ended the evening with Time Square and ice cream at Carvels before heading back to Philadelphia to catch a plane ride home. Was fun to have the Water's with us on the first half of the flight.

Home for a day, love on the puppies, and lots of laundry. Kaylee also somehow got her nails redone. While Cienna was embarking on a full year of Spanish in one month of summer school during all that was to come. Back to LGB heading to Texas this time. We were all super excited to see Auntie Bridget who brought us to a delicious dinner, then to her Houston home, and the NASA Space Center the next day getting to witness and explore exciting space history before heading out to her other property/home in San Leon. There, we were greeted by Cousin Lexi and Rene. Luckily they were vacationing as well and we all got to hang out together for the evening which we cruised the cute little town in Bridget's' golf cart and tour via Troy.

Next morning we were off to Port of Galveston for our departure on The Harmony of the Seas Royal Caribbean Cruise with Poppa and the Marty's for another 8 days of incredible adventure! We got a little sidetracked from the plan, so no Honduras due to hurricane Beryl. Headed straight to Cozumel. After meeting up with the fam, an incredible Ice performance, and late night welcome party. We had an unexpected party at an upstairs restaurant overlooking the ocean, before the excursion, but there were margaritas for Poppa and we got to walk down and see iguanas. The Glass Bottom boat excursion was incredible! Star fish, fun, and snorkeling! Finishing with the boys at Senior Frogs.

Can't explain how many things happened. Volley Ball, Pickle Ball, Zip Lining, Rock Climbing, 8 story dry slide, water slides, more incredible shows such as Greece musical, slack line aquatics show with tight rope. Family time at dinner was a big highlight as well! It was great being all together. The servers were super personal and even did magic tricks.

Continuing through the adventure, we then went to Costa Maya and learned a lot about the Mayan Ruins. Great tour guide and experience. More on the boat was Flow Rider Wake boarding, dancing, parades, celebrating, a silent dance party was a first for most of us, astonishing performances every night, chilling by the pool, belly flop contests, and exercise classes. We entered in a scavenger pool hunt as a family and won! We'll keep that trophy for sure. We earned it and had the other passengers on board to help.

Back in Galveston we docked in the morning and got picked up by Auntie Bridget. It was a beautiful day we cruise around San Leon again and had delicious Tex Mex while deciding whether to stay there or head back to Houston since our flight the next morning was delayed due to Hurricane Beryl. It was the calm before the storm for sure. Apparently we didn't have enough excitement over the month. We all had a first experience of a full blown hurricane! Thanks to Bridget, we were all safe and headed back to the airport in the evening.

After all the unforgettable experiences we were ready for a little time at home. Due to the weather, there were a few more complications before getting back home such as boarding and de-boarding and re-boarding because of one thing or another, but then we got back to LBG, walked home and got a little sleep.

We were all happy to get to have Lula the next week, and of course the girls scheduled a sleepover with the Water's that weekend. Week following Cienna got her cartilage pierced, and Kaylee got her second phase of braces. Dad went to a Galaxy game with the Bakx, mom looked at stars with a huge telescope at work and the last week the girls got to go to Acting Out camp for the 8th year in a row!

Exhausted....

Lots of great pictures and thanks to all for helping with such an incredible month!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/4DYTEvv7vFKAjD4E7

Cienna - 16 Years 5 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 14 Years Old!

Knock down crazy month. "Blast from the past" gymnastics meet first. San Diego, Girls had a late Sunday night. With School the next morning. Highlights included bringing Clara and having lunch together as well as both Cienna and Kaylee doing their big bar releases for the first time in competition!

Music in the air was beautiful. It was great to have Cienna next to Lexi and listen to them sing. We then had a sleepover with Ash and the Water's. They made some great videos together as always that are worth watching. Then a beach day with more gym buddies!

Memorial Day was spent at the Bakx. Swimming and BBQ to start and then end the month. Dad and Roman and dad a fun time together at a LA Galaxy game. Then came Y State. We may have had to bring some of our equipment which included a bar rail. Adding to the fun is that we got to see the Sklenickas again.  Cienna even found time to finish her designing and fixing her guitar.

Cienna got to go to Liv's 16 at the beach. Then Kaylee melted all our emotions with all honors in music vocal assemble, jazz band and advanced chorus and band! 8th graders got to go to CSULB for a party with music, dance and, bowling. Cienna also got awards for high school gymnastics as one of the Moore League Champion team members.

Mom and Kaylee for both of their first time got Gel X nails what ever that is. Then Kaylee happened to have an 8th grade banquet which only some of the class was invited. Kaylee got All A's and E's continuing since Kinder getting a special gold cord for promotion, pink cord for music, and a trophy for student of the year for P.E.

Then the last lunch on the lawn, and the bigger event was Porter's Birthday : )

**** 8th Grade Promotion**** Just can't again. We are so proud!

It couldn't be because it was the beginning of summer or Porter's birthday, but the we know the Woodside's TP'd our house that night. Next night Keira and Kaylee made their own party after gym on Friday. Then Saturday came...Kaylee's 14th!

2nd and PCH Photo Scavenger Hunt! 5 groups of 3 and they all had to find some pretty extravagant pictures to bring back after the hunt. They all played games, had food, saw each others pictures, rocked out to their own music, then ate ice cream cake. Oh and in the meantime got a surprise visit from Grammy!

Best Dad Ever! Father's Day was fun starting at home with cutting watermelon which we forgot to bring to the Ferrario party.  Didn't matter, we got to drive the Bronco, and there was too much fun and such great food. Grammy led the band and Daddy had the best Rydman Swan Dive. Such a great atmosphere with all the amazing people that we appreciate letting us all being a part of their family. We later then got more BBQ for dinner!

Shopping Spree for the girls with Grammy was first.... the first one. We all got a new living room rug and the girls both got spoiled. While we went to gym for the girls Nationals Good Luck practice/party,  Dad and Grammy went to to the Altar Society brewing company which used to be a Masonic Temple and it's the oldest standing building in LB since 1903. Then a second shopping adventure including a table cloth and so much else including memories that will last! All followed by a long dog walk. The dogs had fun too!

We're off to Nationals and vacations...more about that next month.  Enjoy the pictures!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/AXoBrjWotXbtmYck6 

Cienna - 16 Years 4 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 13 Years 11 Months Old!

Like college is around the corner, Cienna went on a tour of all of the San Diego schools with her Quest buddies. It was a whirlwind trip leaving at 5am and coming back the next day by 4pm. Not only did they get tours of all campuses but also fit in a trip to the zoo. Then got back in time to compete for Millikan gymnastics. Yes, she hadn't planned on it, but both Cienna and Francesca were asked by the Coach to please compete. It was an interesting dilemma, but they competed and had a great time. Next up was first mock test/review for AP World History exam.

We used a somewhat free weekend to do some gardening, yardwork, remembering how to play catch, and painting our address numbers on the sidewalk. We also took the dogs to the dog park in the Bronco for Roaklee's Birthday.

Cienna then had her Spring Concert Performance before dad's Birthday weekend at Brewfest. Mom got to meet up with Darcie at a local City College to watch Erik/Bubby compete for SRJC in diving! Was great to watch and hang out with Darcie as always. Dad had a great birthday weekend hanging with Uncle Joe and Jeff, missed Roman who was off on a European adventure.

Cienna then had the Moore league finals for Millikan gymnastics. They came out as champions and had fun with all the other teams. Then after Cienna came back from Ava's Birthday party Kaylee and Mommy were fixing a sprinkler which ended up in a mud throwing event which Cienna got the brunt of. We also had our first big crop of blueberries. So good! We have two plants which are both different but delicious in their own ways.

Kaylee's last music event of her middle school years (Arts in the Air) was so fun to watch. We can't believe middle school is coming to an end.

The last weekend we enjoyed celebrating Archer's 1st Birthday party at Sierra and Robbie's home. Amazing to think back when Sierra was 3 at our wedding. Time goes by way too fast.

Luckily we got more time with the Ferrario's since they still invite us over for Mother's day. We took the Bronco again and had a great brunch. Cienna had been working hard to re-make a guitar that we got from a thrift store and made it her own with custom decorations.

Kaylee then went on her 8th grade field trip to experience the band music workshop with the Disneyland conductor who is super great with the kids and loves jokes and his job! Mom was lucky enough to chaperone and enjoy the fun learning experience!

Cienna got invited to Shawna's Confirmation and it also happen to be combined with many other friends. Dad also went on a beach bike ride with Roman, JB, Sean, Franklin, and Brett along the beach.

This next month is crazy already without even happening, so..... 

Not worth a mention, but we did buy Cookies and Cream Ice Cream which turned out to actually be French Vanilla.

Check out all the pics and videos:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/KDAgu2m6AvJFHMMe7

Cienna - 16 Years 3 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 13 Years 10 Months Old!

Mom's Bday started early at 6:30 heading to San Diego with the family for the girls USAG State meet. The meet was supposed to be in Long Beach, unfortunately changed to San Diego. Made for a long but fun day, four gymnastics sessions. We got an open session during lunch where we met up with the Sklenicka's at Coronado Brewery. We even got some cool rain before heading back to the gym. We got home about midnight. Both girls qualified for Regionals. Mom got made some ice cream to celebrate before everyone hit the sack!

The next week Dad got to meet up with the Payne's at Downtown Disney for dinner and then go with Larry, Roman, and Mike for an Angel/Dodger game celebrating Larry's Birthday! Mom Got to chaperone Kaylee's Music field trip to Knott's that week also. Was a very fun day for all. That evening the gym celebrated Coach George's Birthday.

Then it was Peta's Sweet 16 that Cienna went to at her house before we all dyed some eggs getting ready for Easter morning. And what a great Easter it was getting to share with so many friends! We started at home with a morning egg hunt and baskets. We didn't need a breakfast knowing all the delicious food ahead. Next went to the Ferrario's for our first feast of the day. Also we got to meet all the new animals at Cobi and Bri's home, as well of a tour from Sierra and Robbie's new home! It's amazing to be invited into such an amazing family!

For an early dinner we headed back home since Auntie Kimmie went back to dinner foods this year and she never ceases to amaze with all the yummy dishes. There was another egg hunt with all the kids. They all came to play on the trampoline while the eggs were hidden. Cienna found the Big Bunny Egg this year! Many games were played and we got to go home with leftovers for the week.

Spring Break! We had a little time to get stuff done around the house before all the friend hang out planning began. After gym on Monday the girls headed to the Water's house for a sleepover and while Mom and Dad worked they got to go to the snow for some Spring Sledding thanks to Rocky making it happen. They ended up coming back just in time for gym that day!

Straight after Practice Cienna went for another sleepover with Julia. They went to Marshall to watch the sunset, do some baking, and enjoyed the time they had together. We then finally got around to getting some plants for the garden. We succeeded in spending time together planting all the fruits and vegetables. We ventured out with the berries this year!

Spring Break ended with a 6 girl sleepover consisting of the 3 Musketeers, Cienna, Lexie, and Julia. Was just the 3 then they enlisted Lexie and Julia! Lot's of food, fun, and laundry!

Last weekend this month was the Regional's gymnastics meet. It was in Ontario (Southern Ca. hosted this year) Both girls did Amazing. We spent a lot of time in Ontario. Kaylee was the first of her team to compete. She nailed it. Placed in everything and got Second All Around in the Region that includes 4 States. Cienna had her best bar routine of the season and also medaled! They had a great time competing and supporting all their other teammates in their individual age group sessions In between Mom and the girls had some time together for an amazing lunch and adventuring at the Ontario Mills Outlets. Meanwhile, after dad supported both Kaylee and Cienna for their competitions, he represented for all of us at Roman's 55th Decades party at their home with music, fun, and crazy!

Cienna then left at 5:45am with her sophomore Quest pathway group on an adventure to tour San Diego Colleges, be with friends, and make memories that last forever.

Love all the times! Look forward to every day having each other, and seeing what comes next!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/3juateEfBVyQvuWv5

Cienna - 16 Years 2 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 13 Years 9 Months Old!

Great friends organized a late "Galentines" for Cienna the weekend before Presidents Day. That night after gym the girls made dream boards as the first fun event leading up to Nationals come the end of June. Dad and Mom got to bring Kaylee Togo's for 8th grade lunch on the lawn to end the week before another fun weekend.

Planned a visit with Scott after way to long and all went to the PotHolder for breakfast. We all loved hanging out and catching up. The next day the girls got up early with Mom to come assistant coach the Level 4/5 girls at a gym meet in Lake Elsinore. It was a quick drive with great company. Selena drove and Kaylee did her first French braid on Emery for her competition. It turned out pretty awesome.

The gym got a visit from Nanette Barragán (U.S. House California District 44) and took plenty of pictures and even talked with the optionals. Had a well needed 3 Musketeers visit, followed by a family game night. Cienna and Dad went to a Lakewood Hall of Fame event which featured the Lakewood gymnastics team for their Nationals win where Cienna got to be their spokesperson! She was praised by everyone and deserved it! 

Cienna took her last driving lesson, Kaylee did 8th grade panorama pics. Next up was Heart of The Champions. It was both of their first Level 9 USAG gymnastics competition. They did amazing and had many first accomplishments. Getting to not hold back on tumbling passes and other skills that are above the Level 8 requirements. 

Just before Cienna's driver's test she had fun celebrating her friend Steph's 16 at El Dorado park with a great variety of food!

Then on March 4th, Mom and Cienna had a great time full of anticipation at the DMV. We found our way through pretty easy and had fun sitting and waiting in the Test line wondering which Tester she was going to end up with. She didn't need anyone in particular because she's a pretty great "beginner" driver. Needless to say, she passed! 

Mom and Dad are still nervous about the others on the road. But, Cienna is rightfully so, a licensed driver. It's scary and weird, but she knows to make sure and get experience on roads she is comfortable with to look out for others. Although she took extra hour long practices on the freeway!

Cienna's buddy down the street, Addy's 16th was next which was at the same time as Erin hosted a party for Mom's friend Minda also just a block away. After gym that Friday, we walked together, had fun with friends, then walked back.

Kaylee's Musical performances came the next week as well as the first time Cienna drove alone. She even drove her sister home after dad dropped her off at gym practice after the musical run through. Mom and Dad watched the Thursday performance, and Cienna joined for the Friday.

Next Gym competition was in San Diego.  It was the "State Games" at Toby Wells. We were very happy to get to spend time with the Sklenicka's! We met for lunch after we supported/coached the level 4/5's and before Cienna and Kaylee competed. Great food and company. In case anyone was wondering Kaylee got a soft pretzel! Just after the girls had a great competition. Funny that the meet did not have a high bar tall enough for Clara originally, but we worked it out. There were overall some great accomplishments physically and emotionally from the last meet at the same location!

Then St. Patrick's weekend.  Mark had Roman over for a full day of brewing for upcoming Birthday and homebrew festival events. Was great to have Roman's cousin Misha and Courtney join. Cienna went to volunteer for a Car Show fundraiser for her Child Cancer Club with a few of her friends. Meanwhile mom took the Bronco for some errands before picking her up, then the Waters came over for more entertainment. St. Patrick's day we made plans with The Marshalls. Made Corned Beef, Buffalo New potatoes, and the Marshalls brought delicious salad mixings and some mint Oreo cookie ice cream! The girls also wet around the neighborhood to find lemons to make Leprechaun Pee. (Delicious Lemonade)

Enjoy the photos and videos

https://photos.app.goo.gl/7Jg3mZZU2qoBRa6SA

Cienna - 16 Years 1 Month Old! ... Kaylee - 13 Years 8 Months Old!

Both girls had a great time at the Great Destinations competition. First one of the season and both walked away with 1st place all-around! The next day, we have a 16 year old. But the coolest part is that we couldn't be more proud of Cienna. We had a great day together riding bikes along the beach, getting smoothies, dinner at CPK followed by ice cream!

Mom got to hang with friends for an evening to celebrate Selena, then most of that week was spent preparing for Cienna's birthday party. She has always had such fun party ideas and lucky enough to have parents that help make them happen. Ended up with a 15 passenger van after plenty of trips to LBX to make sure that happened since one friend awesomely was able to come which made the 12 passenger with too few seats : ) After some window painting on the van we all headed off to Mt. Baldy for some incredible views, super cool waterfall hiking and climbing, Togo's picnic, and just a lot of laughing and rocking out to good music. It wasn't quiet in the van, but we wouldn't want it any other way.

Cienna got a lot of support including Clara, Julia, and others for her duet with Francesca at schools Backstage Bistro. They did an incredible mash up of Rumor Has It and Someone Like You. Totally volunteer school event putting themselves out there and nailed it.

Dad then got a chance to visit the main Menlo Park campus of Meta. He got spoiled with all the amenities, but we were a bit disappointed that he didn't take advantage of the free mani/pedi.

Mom then drove up north to Vera's home in Berkeley. It's pretty great to know that even if you don't see your high school buddies everyday, they're always there for you. Just saying, the food was great. The company was the best! We had a super muddy but beautiful hike and a lot of catching up.

Meanwhile back in Long Beach Dad took Cienna for pictures in Seal Beach and dinner at an Irish restaurant with buddies before her Winter Formal. Cienna even let Kaylee put mascara on for the occasion. The dance was in San Pedro at "Crafted". 

We got the pleasure of doggy sitting Lula, Kaylee went to Zach's Movie night Birthday party and the girls finally got their new leotards that their team designed before the 2nd meet of the season. We headed to Ontario. It happened to be Super Bowl Sunday. And the 49ers were in it. At the exact time that the girls were competing. What to do...... We actually recorded it and managed to keep our ears and eyes away from all broadcasting. OK, so most importantly the girls had another successful competition. And then we got home and made delicious super bowl snacks and watched it 3 hours later than everyone else. Still completely enjoyed the game (although the outcome) and our time together!

We completely finalized the Bronco for road ready! A couple of trips to AAA and one to the DMV besides the time spent at ACA (local mechanics). Smogged and ready to go. Kaylee even enjoyed driving it without stalling once. On that note Cienna has her drivers test scheduled and has been practicing every time she gets the chance. 

Honorable mention, Cienna did a beach clean up to end the month.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/DYT4wrzQVYuWNFzv7

Cienna - 16 Years Old! ... Kaylee - 13 Years 7 Months Old!

Holiday's are very excited and full of fun and adventure! Love the time we get to be with each other, more family and great friends who take us in as family as well! Every blog is a lot, but ok... I may have to take some verbiage short cuts on this one. 

Visit to gym from Shoenberg's led to a fun visit with Sadie at home. We then visited neighborhood Christmas decorations including coach Denise's house. We took family walks and wrapped gifts for family and friends.  We finally installed our new dishwasher which we had fun doing together! Cienna also made a winter painting of Snoopy and Winchester to bring to our next adventure to Greg and Jackie's cabin in Big Bear.

Prior to that we went to the Snow's for a big Christmas Eve party. There was a cookie contest and a white Elephant Gift exchange for the adults. Great time as always with a cheese-less lasagna for Mom thanks to Auntie Kimmie!

Christmas morning was as magical as ever. We love being together in the morning cuddling on our bed and watching a movie before the big day of excitement and cheer of Christmas with us and friends. After the morning we went on a walk together and then went to Auntie Kimmie and Uncle Keith's for a gift exchange. Cienna went with mom to walk around the neighborhood giving out hand made paintings that she worked hard on to those out and about. We also made our way to Heartwell Park where Cienna got to meet Balloo. The parrot we had previously talked about and they had a great time together on our walk! Later that evening we went to Joan and Larry's to enjoy being part of their family as always for so many occasions! It means a lot for us to be invited to such special times with them!

The next few days we enjoyed some of the gifts we got from each other and enjoying each other putting things together, playing games and making food. The girls had one last night at gym before we left to our next adventure in Big Bear! Both girls did their bar release skill on bars without a spot from a coach for the first time!

Dogs were again in the back seat of the truck with the girls...poor puppies! They all had fun and the road trip was easy. We loved getting to Greg and Jackie's cabin playing cards, learning card tricks, and making tortilla soup! We were preparing for a fun day of Snowboarding. It turned out to be a bikini wearing shorts type of snowboarding but we made the full day out of it! We all mastered the skill of snowboarding the way we want to and went home for pasta and meatballs! The puppies had a great evening walk with all of us and a fun night. Dad took them home the next day as Mom and the girls took a 5 mile walk to the village to get ice cream and enjoy the scenery! On the way back to the cabin Daddy was on his way back as well and picked us up to get back to the cabin for the evening for more family time and to set of for the next adventure in the morning.

We were cleaning the cabin and off to see The Sklenicka's! The New Year was upon us. We started with picking up pine needles, replacing air filters, showing off card tricks that we had previously learned, and all the kids, and adults, playing together. That first night ended with fun bedtime stories and Joe and Daddy staying up late as always enjoying each others company! Then it was New Years Eve! There was chocolate bombs, long walks, pickle ball, park time, and Kan Jam in the back yard. We did movies, VR, then Mom and Cienna passed time taking outside pictures just to stay up till midnight while Kaylee decorated Dad and Joe. We made barely made it to midnight but had a great time together.

After packing again in the morning we had an easy trip home on New Years Day (Grammy's Birthday) one more week of vacation we had so much fun! After one day back at gym a 6 person sleepover was in the works to finish up the Holiday show that they have kept as a tradition. This included a night time neighborhood adventure as well as the next day adventure to Heartwell park. They even took in a seventh member (Auralia) part way through the filming. The finale included a video at the Main Y that their gym is affiliated with!

Meanwhile Dad had been diligantly working to restore our amazing BBQ/Smoker! It looks like it is brand new! Next up was a Three Musketeers sleepover just to keep us all busy. Then the girls were super excited to take Jen up on her Christmas present to take them shopping! They had such a great time and came back with some new clothes that they love!

Time to go back to school and work, but fun continues. We had family visits to look forward too! For Ashley's graduation she got to bring her friend Emily along with Trevor and Sam to Disney for a couple days. We started with just the Marty's and Poppa, amazingly the Natal's were also here since Megan was doing the Disney Marathon. So all of us got to spend time together with lunch at LBX and then dinner at home. Natal's went back to the hotel to prepare for the run and more fun at Disneyland and before Emily and Sam got here the next day the rest of us went for a beautiful day on the bay renting a Duffy Boat. We brought lunch and enjoyed the sun before heading home. The next day Ashley, Emily, Trevor, and Sam headed to there Disney Adventure.

Mom worked from home since the girls had the holiday off and Dad, Poppa, Mike, and Dana went to the LA car museum. Crazy looking cars and they enjoyed them all. Meanwhile Kaylee got to hang out with Amiah for the day and Cienna with Francesca to work on their Backstreet Bistro for school as well as just hang out together.

As family departed in the RV, we were getting ready to replenish the kitchen : ) and get ready for the next week before finals and a 16th Birthday!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/df5zc9ZiBwnk2mZ6A