Cienna - 17 Years 11 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 15 Years 6 Months Old!

After 15 years of putting it off, we began the garage remodel. We now have a garage in our bedroom : ). However we did decide on a pretty cool awning style window for the side. This was the beginning of all the holiday activities to come.

Lots of Friendsgivings before Thanksgiving. Both girls had some special time with friends, and we all went to Circus Vargas with Shawna and Evan. They never cease to amaze. Cienna even got a contact for her Senior Quest Project promoting young athletes around the world. The Morisky's invited us for another fun-filled evening at their place with a ton of food and fun.

We all got up early for a 5K Turkey Trot on the beach to start off Thanksgiving. It was such a cool event. We trotted along with the Morisky's and Shawna. There was a follow up activity with the girls doing muscle ups along side of the local calisthenics gurus that have a regular spot. Afterward we all had Pumpkin Smoothies as tradition by Stephanie.

In anticipation for a delicious Thanksgiving we headed home to heat up the ham for Thanksgiving at the Snow's. All the kids enjoyed being together. Such a range in age but all get along so well. Nobody went home hungry or without love in their hearts after such a wonderful day. We even made the cleanup a bonding experience : )

Kaylee then supported ( : ) ) Adi getting her first piercing, by getting her second with her. The experience was perfect and we all went to lunch after. We don't get to see the Viglioti's enough but enjoyed the time we had!

We took the minimal time we had that weekend to do some decorating for the Christmas Holiday. We got a great deal on a tree, used garage bins to put under the train this year and the inside was ready to go. We bought outside lights for cyber Monday and even though they weren't what we expected having a plug in the middle they ended up perfect with our setup and plug in the eve's!

Girls had a night with Noah and an Open House Parkour. Then so many concerts and parades were next. Both girls got to sing for the amazing and heartfelt Lights of Remembrance at the Forest Lawn memorial in Cypress. Their beautiful songs along with the thought provoking speeches were a very warming experience. Cienna joined the Brief family in the traditional Kazoo parade in Seal Beach. The Belmont Parade was a big one. The girls got to ride on a truck and sing along all the way along the parade. with the Millikan Choir. Just so happen that mom and dad were "security" behind and the next group was the YMCA Gymnastics Center. Out of about 100, we were right behind/in front of each other. Way cool. 

With all the stuff happening... the girls took it upon themselves to start the outdoor decor. New lights on the roof, snowboarding Santa, etc. Ready for more concerts and the rest of school before break.

SURPRISE Visit from Grammy and Greg. They were in as soon as we mentioned the Chorus Winter Concert that the girls were singing in together! It was a beautiful church ceremony! Auntie Kimmie and Patty as well as the Morisky's also came to support. 

Beforehand the girls came home from gym and were not only greated by Grammy and Greg but covid old Christmas bags that they found in the attic! Most gifts were still relevant and was so much fun to open and be with them. We also got to enjoy Maxwell's presence as Mom and Greg spent the night at the Queen Mary. They soon forged on to their next destination and we moved along with the garage.

Mom took off to Rochester NY for work Thursday for a work day on Friday. Dad and kids held down the fort with more garage, studying, holiday school activities, etc. Mom flew to JFK and dad brought Cienna to LAX for her first flight alone to meet mom at JFK.

Dad and Kaylee get a lot of work done at the house/garage electrical and enjoy plenty of time together fixing things and making the most out of their time. Kaylee may or may not have been a little spoiled over the weekend : )

Stasher was super helpful! They stored our luggage in Manhattan as we did all the things all day and night long instead of going way to far to put our luggage at the WAY less expensive hotel and then coming back all on the subway, which Cienna and I are pretty much experts at now. All Saturday was spent downtown, from Times Square, Radio City, Rockettes, Grand Central Station, dinner at Park Ave Tavern, then the Rockefeller where it first snowed as soon as we saw the tree, including tickets to the Top of the Rock and special tree pictures. After no sleep the previous night we ended at our hotel at midnight which was after a mile walk from the 4 train to our hotel in the Bronx. 

We slept through breakfast which wasn't like either of us but once we opened the curtains to white snow capped everything and snow falling we were excited to head back to NYC. Went to Wall Street, World Trade Center, United Nations, and found the best local hole in the wall brunch location ever. On a whim we took the 2 mile walk and it was the best choice ever. Freeman's is such a great restaurant, highly recommended if you look it up. We hit up Hershey store and Central Park before going back for the night getting dinner at a Bronx grocery store!

Monday was the official visit to Manhattan University for Cienna to meet and tour for the Acro and Tumbling Team. We had breakfast at the hotel before checking out. It was first day of Winter Break, so not many students were on campus but the coach took us all around and we also got to meet with the department head for Political Science. She was adorable and super informative. The snow was beautiful and so was the campus. Turned out that for the first time ever, Millikan shut down the school due to an electrical problem so Cienna didn't miss any school during the trip.

Cienna got a verbal commitment to join the team and we are all encompassing what this college thing is all about. So many things to consider and feelings to go through!

We headed to the airport and got home at midnight to sleep for the Tuesday to follow.

Kaylee's 15 and a half birthday which means eligible to take Drivers permit test. So, of course the first day she could she had it scheduled. Dad and Mom of course both went and were more confident than she was, but when she came out with a big smile we knew it was time to schedule behind the wheel lessons! She passed! Of course she wanted to drive home, we would've let her, but rules are rules.

Secret Santa's for Choir and gymnastics and one last Winter Concert assembly at school before break is upon us! Christmas up next followed by family time and celebrating Grammy's 80th Birthday!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/rmoKvUT3DKwRFu5G7

Cienna - 17 Years 10 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 15 Years 5 Months Old!

The beginning of the end of October w/Mom and Dad going to Rasselbock with the Marshall's and Knobbe's for an Octoberfest celebration feast. This was a month of parties. Cienna did an outdoor movie night with crafts for Lilly's Birthday, then a night celebrating Maiela. The girls had their first choir concert of the year. Their concert groups were the hit of the show.

The next morning mom dropped them off early at school for them to head to Camp Oaks in Big Bear for the chamber retreat. They had so much fun with all the team bonding, Halloween skits, singing, food, and even being together. Meanwhile Mom and Dad were still looking for garage quotes in hopes to get started as soon as possible.

As soon as they got back Kaylee went to Mady's pool party, Dad left for an onsite work trip to Menlo Park and Cienna was off to her first official visit for college Acro and Tumbling to Azusa Pacific. Kaylee mostly held down the fort during the beginning of the week with rides from friends. Dad's visit was a success even though he was transferred to a whole new team just days prior to the trip. He enjoyed meeting new people and sharing thoughts and ideas of the best ways to work together to create a successful environment incorporating AI and improving the company as an efficient community. Mom took Cienna for the majority of the next couple days back and forth to Azusa, coming home for the evening while Cienna stayed in the dorms with the current team. Cienna started the first morning with a hike with the team then we got to take a campus tour and meet a lot of the staff. The next morning she got to practice with the team and then had a meeting with the coach who immediately accepted her to join the team for next year. We don't know that this is the school for her, but it was an amazing experience and opened other opportunities.

Girls got to enjoy Halloween at school first, then actually made a little time to carve pumpkins before the evening festivities. Somewhere along the way we decorated as well and got costumes pieced together. Mom and Dad went to the Marshall's to hang with the fire pit and enjoy trick-o-treater's, Kaylee cruised the neighborhood as well with friends and even went with Mom to the neighbors haunted house before heading with friends to a party. Cienna got ready and hung at a friends house before her party at a nearby house. They both ended up at the same party at the end just as it was "ending." Then had a sleepover at our house to end the night.

The next day Cienna went with Evan to the Sunken City and Mom and Kaylee went to see Rene. That evening the Water's girls came over to join us and Evan for dinner, then the five of them made fun videos as always and had a lot of laughs and memorable moments.

Then we decided to try and make the garage remodel a real possibility. We took out a main bush that will soon be a counter passthrough area to the garage. Meanwhile also did major weeding in the garden and saved the blueberry and blackberry bushes. Throughout the week we discussed how to get the plan in action and made one last visit with the chosen contractor. That being done we were moving everything out of the garage. Where to put it you ask? Well, seems as if our bedroom and the office had "plenty" of space for everything that needed to be covered by the elements. So that's what we did the following weekend.

Veteran's day apparently gave the girls a Tuesday off, so Monday was treated like a weekend. More sleepovers all around. Kaylee with 7 awesome ladies at home walking to In N Out and Cienna at Alana's making homemade pasta!

Kaylee went with many of her friends to support Amiah in Frozen as she took a leading role of Elsa. Then went to Val's Quinceanera the following day. Rain was welcomed throughout the weekend! Kaylee scheduled a DMV permit appointment for her 15.5 birthday and Cienna competed her UC applications.

We enjoyed the last Sunday very late breakfast after morning work together and then having committed to the garage remodel and contractor we proceeded with removing everything left in the garage to outdoor locations with tarp coverings.

Then the demo began!

More Adventures to come.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/br36Y4pj3LAY69Kr8

Cienna - 17 Years 9 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 15 Years 4 Months Old!

Lot's of Friday night football games for the girls. Being in ASB and hyping the crowd makes it fun no matter win or lose. Every weekend is full of shenanigans including sleepovers, trips to BJ's, carnivals, and TP'ing, etc.

We managed to actually do a garage sale for all the things that we had cleaned out. We'd say it was a success for many reasons regardless of how much we did not want to do a garage sale. Got an amazing opportunity to go to the Galaxy game. On the field again! Kaylee was at Jaela's sweet 16 so Cienna brought Lexi and we all had a great time. They won and we cheered right there next to Ricky Puig : )

Back to School night just keeps getting better, the teachers are so cool and Mark and I love the challenge of figuring out how to split up the schedules. The washing machine has also been a bit of a challenge this month taking away time that we don't have. It's been fixed, then doesn't work, then fixed, now fixed again... for now.

We all went to watch Evan play waterpolo at Oxy (Occidental College), had a great time. It's a pretty college. Kaylee went to Hayden's sweet 16 on the Bay. Mom and Dad went with the Marshall's and Jana to the "Taste of Los Al." A fundraiser for Adi's high school and a delicious tasting of a huge variety of local food. 

Ended with Homecoming week themes. We went to Saver's to get all the outfits that we didn't already have. Each day they went to school with theme's that they each got to make up for the school in ASB. The game was fun, they lost, but the girls probably did even know. Cienna got to sing the National Anthem with Vocal Assemble. They also sung Das Sound Machine during halftime.

We finished the month enjoying lunch with Greg and Jackie, more sleepovers, trips to BJ's and Oxy waterpolo, as well an Octoberfest meal with the Marshall's and Knobbe's at Rasselbock.

Lives are busy. Time is precious.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/K6kxkMZxJDi1mNBk6

Cienna - 17 Years 8 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 15 Years 3 Month Old!

In preparation for the upcoming school year, with a SENIOR and Sophomore, the girls did a great job getting as much summertime as possible. Lots of friend time, beach time, bay time, and relaxing amongst all the other obligations! With them both being in ASB they got to be involved in Freshman orientation including rallying and dress up days. They both also got class schedules and books. We got TP'd way more than normal, but ok.

They continued to spend time with gym friends heading off to college. Pizzookies, finding random events in Lakewood parking lots on their way to the dollar tree, and sleepovers. Cienna spent time in Laguna, made senior pants, and helped a very successful senior sunrise with friends! In the meantime we also got some new fish.

Mom and Dad also got to invite Roman to go to a Galaxy game with Kristen in the best seats ever on the field. We had such a great time and loved hanging out with Kristen as always.

First day of school. We did pictures in the morning. Was Cienna's last first day of unpaid school. We printed out all of her first day pictures since Kinder. Then took her last one. We also got a picture of Kaylee : ) Cienna then headed off to decorate cars with Senior decor, and show up together at school with their "senior" backpacks.

The rest of the week the girls had a great time together on the field representing ASB at the football game. Together we finished going through the garage in preparation for the remodel. Was actually pretty fun and got to find old stuff we hadn't seen in a while.

A new "family" member also showed up on labor day weekend. We got to meet "Buffy", the Marshall's new Golden Retriever! She is as cute as you could possibly imagine her being. The fam also went cruising on the bay together with the girls on the paddle board and the parents on a blow up boat that they bought well over 20 years ago. 

The next weekend Dad brought the girls, with Adi and Evan to cruise Huntington Beach bike path and check out the bands along the way. Mom had a great lunch for Kristen's Baby shower! Evan came the next evening for some Cornhole and hanging out.

The following week, at the last moment, mom went to New York for work. Flew into Rochester on Tues. and out on Wed. but did get up early (3:00am Ca time) to walk the Erie Canal before working the rest of the day and heading home. Meanwhile dad took Cienna to a college fair in Pasadena. The girls celebrated Nicki's 16th birthday in Huntington with lunch at Dukes and shopping!

We've been getting back into the groove of whatever is happening now, and then and always enjoying time we have together and appreciate all that the girls are doing to be them!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/pT8BLa7kRVThzwLk7

Cienna - 17 Years 7 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 15 Years 2 Month Old!

Camping in DogWood party of 20, +five four legged ones as well! After confiscating Chum Chum from the Netter's backyard and packing up the truck the six of us headed toward Lake Arrowhead. The weather was amazing the whole weekend. Us, the Bakx - Stone, Joan and Larry, Dirks, Sean, JB, Sofia, and Hailey, and the Pham family including their two little girls Rhiannon and Chloe. Porter and Roaklee had some buddies come also. Thor, Jasper and Freya were there to play. As always there was no lack of entertainment or food. The tent held up with the six of us, we did a lot of exploring, and enjoyed all that the mountain nature had to offer.

Apparently the first go at "Senior" pictures happen way before school, which I get since it is mainly due to needing yearbook pictures, but it made things start to be real. After that side note we continued the fun heading toward the end of the summer. Dad headed to San Diego since Uncle B was there on business. They ended up meeting with Uncle Joe and crashing/making the most of Dana's farewell party at a good friend's house. There may have been some late night swimming involved. Meanwhile the girls took Mom paddle boarding for the first time. The blow up paddle board with the one paddle was not meant for three of us, but we made it work anyway. Against the wind and the tide, hard work paddling and Cienna kicking from behind, and Kaylee on Aux many jokes and laughter later we got back to shore tired and ready for food.

Dad made it home and we all decided to get Subway for dinner as we watched Happy Gilmore 2 together and relax! The girls both finished up all assignments for summer school that week (A's all around!) and then we were headed for out next big adventure up North with family at Resort Del Poppa!

We were so grateful that Sean and Jamie leant us their RV for the week. Sean even parked and hooked it up at Poppa's before we showed up. There were to be 5 RV's in all parked at Poppa's resort and Cabana that weekend. But the first night we relaxed with Poppa and Heather after going to get groceries and dropping by Sean and Jamie's, seeing the boys, and checking out the new barn getting ready for the horses, maybe a cow and perhaps a pig :) That night the four of us watched TSITP together in the cabana since it apparently comes out on Wednesdays, and that was the first one.

Woke up to a beautiful sunrise, mom and dad ran up the canyon, we decorated got the property ready and the girls perfected how to use the fly over drone. Ashley showed up first, one day after her birthday. We continued to prep for the party as the next guests arrived. Grammy and Greg came with Maxwell and Jake. All four puppies had so much fun together and we all had fun introducing Greg and Jake to the rest of the family. Mike and Dana picked up Erik, Mary, and Violet from the airport and were on their way next. We were all excited to see them again and for them to be able to make it out to California! If them being there wasn't big enough, they also shared that they are expecting a baby boy this January!

A wonderful sunset and dinner together, then a mellow sunrise and breakfast together lead to the start of the big festivities for the weekend. Erin and Charley arrived first shortly followed by Alex and Shannon with Charlotte, with Cameron coming next. They were all in festive matching outfits and we made the most of all the games, food, and activities. Grammy and Greg came and put up some good challenge with corn hole and Kan Jam as well. We waited for Trevor and Sam to show then really kicked off the family planned activities.

A pre-organized game of Family Feud was soon making it apparent that we were all there to have fun and enjoy. Thanks to Ashley, The Marty's, and Poppa for the planning and organization. Definitely not a lack of jokes, banter, and laughs!

After a long night, the sunset, and all the things imaginable for breakfast was delicious. We all spent the day enjoying each other and spending quality time. This included a Jeopardy game, Pickle Ball tournament, more lawn games, Picture slide shows, Swimming with the drone video experience, and a sewer clean out all before a tri-tip dinner cut by Kaylee. This was followed by a couple games of LCR, and plenty of impromptu hangman before bedtime. One last sunrise in the morning, clean up, and some goodbye's to the family before the road trip home.

I'm not good at writing, and what's next is too hard. We are so glad that Porter got these two fun filled "camping" trips this summer. He always loved camping, and Poppa's property. He got to spend time with so many people who loved and appreciated him over the last 14 years. It had been harder and harder for him to get around but he still did laps in the living room before going for a walk even though they were shorter.  We lost him, but he is not lost to us. He's shaped all our lives and there are holes missing each day with his absence. Thankful for Kaylee making photo frames of Porter to place around the house and appreciate all who reached out.  

During that next week the girls got to help out at the Acting Out camp that they have gone to for almost a decade. They couldn't do the entire camp but Erin appreciated any chance they got to be there during the week. The girls had some extra morning practices which let us all go to dinner together on Thurs. night. We went to a location near the bay and walked around the shore during sunset and enjoyed our time together. 

After Friday morning practice both girls headed off to ASB camp. They enjoyed outdoor sports/games like archery and zip lining, they all performed skits with different groups, had bonfires and hike, and played games all together in the common room way past bedtime.

Meanwhile dad and mom took the time to really embrace the fact that we are actually going to be doing the garage remodel. Architect plans are in the work to be approved and already have contractors on board to get it done. So what's left is to clean and organize. We had a great time working together making a plan to get it done. First up was hardware, then what to keep, throw away, and the "other" what to do with piles :)

When the girls came home we certainly enlisted their help in the garage. After a little resistance, we ended up making the most out of it and having fun together in the daunting task. Kaylee found a solar powered fountain, dad found some disturbing toys from childhood, and there were old soccer banners to reminisce.

Ending the last week Dad went to an Angels/Dodgers game in Anaheim with Roman and Mike, the girls went to Knott's with Clara, Francesca, Keira, and two littles Jill and Kalista. All but the littles closed down the park as the lines for the rides got exponentially shorter. Mom also spent quite a bit of time on the gymnastics seniors gifts for the upcoming end of the season banquet.

It was a Luau theme. All level on the team made it and got awards, had delicious food, and was followed by a pool party at the main Y. The seniors enjoyed the photo book gifts that included pictures of each of them over the past decade of their gymnastic experiences as they head of to college for more new experiences to come.

One last week before Cienna's final year of high school. She has certainly been working hard with her essay's and college applications all summer long. She deserves so much and we hope to be able to help her any way we can along her journey but can't even fathom that she is going to be a senior in high school. Both girls will be welcoming in the Freshman for orientation next week with the rest of their ASB classmates. They look forward to making them start off the high school experience on a positive note!

I have no closing statement. I'm drained.

We love you Porter!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/piML8D69AcQoFjtp7

Cienna - 17 Years 6 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 15 Years 1 Month Old!

For Kaylee's Third birthday party she took her gymnastics team to an escape room entitled "The Lab" in downtown LB. They had a great time while Mom and Dad walked to lunch nearby. Thought it would be a great chance to work together before 3 of the 6 of them graduate after the upcoming Gymnastics Nationals trip to Wisconsin! They made it out and solved it together.

Before heading to Wisconsin Kaylee took an appointment to do Shawna's nails for her trip out East to visit her friend. Mom also had a Bunco party with Bonnie, then Cienna had a graduation brunch from Youth Leadership Long Beach with friends she has made many special connections. 

Next up was Clara's graduation party which included more fun in there backyard with a tree house and backyard games. We followed that party with Stone's Grad party and Rylee's 21'st all in one. Plenty of music played reminiscing in the garage and delicious food. Then we headed to the beach the following day for Evan's grad party. A beautiful sunset and bonfire along with great people made for an enjoyable time. Some lost keys may have made the night more of an adventure than planned, but all worked out in the end!

With all the birthday and graduations slowly subsiding, we were off to Wisconsin. Why you ask? For the Cheese! Nope.... The girls Nationals Gymnastics competition this year. 

We left out of Long Beach to Nashville for a short layover and got to travel with all the coaches! Once in Milwaukee we got our rental and headed to LakeFront Brewery (LB) First experience, but not the last of cheese curds. We then headed our way to the hotel in Green Bay!

Woke up for some breakfast and excited to celebrate Clara, Francesca, and Keira at the senior ceremony. It was held at Lambeau Field "ish". We were all happy be there to support them. Little did we know that we were going to be invited to be on the field to take pictures and hang out as long as we wanted. The girls definitely took advantage of the time with pictures and videos.

Cienna and Francesca played a big roll in the weekend as the student athlete representatives on the YMCA National Board. They had planned many activities and really engaged in many ways to make the event more memorable for all those participating! Many of them included the gymnast check in and the Opening Ceremonies.

Before the ceremonies the next day Cienna and Kaylee got to do their first touch warm up practice along with their teammates. They were feeling great about the whole event and were excited for the opening ceremonies. Went back to the hotel for hotel signs and to hang with all those on the rest of their team trickling in from their flights.

Opening ceremonies went wonderful and the weather held out throughout even though it called for rain during an outdoor event. Jordan Chiles was an inspirational guest speaker, after the parade of athletes, and we were even the closest team from where she walked in. Our team sent a flash mob dance to all other Y's that were involved previous to the competition and so when the DJ played the song during the after party so many other teams joined, in it was a sight to see! And a definite win for camaraderie throughout all the Y's in the Nation! There were also bounce houses, food, including cheese curd coupons : (

Most girls had arrived, so team door sign posting was if full effect! Next day was the girls first competition for their Championship level. (The Fours competed before them and did great getting first place team).  Both girls and the rest of their championship team qualified for all event finals the next day. But a pool party was inevitable since the hotel had a water park!

That night the fours were leaving and threw a hotel party : ) Next day before final we used our A&W root beer float coupons after supporting the level 6's and before competing that evening (they were small : ) They had amazing performances. A first place for one and a personal best for another.

Overall their team took 1st place National Champions for the 3rd year in a row. Had an amazing time as a team and celebrating the successes of 3 of their graduating senior teammates. It's now the two of them and Alayh'a.

We then had some time to visit a small time carnival that was reminiscent of Mom's childhood. The rides were ok, but even the tickets were $0.25 each! Most one ride took was 6, and that was Elvis Presley's favorite roller coaster!

Almost had a delayed fight home, but since all the coaches and the rest of us were on the same flight the held the lay over flight out of Nashville for us and we got home right in time for a lovely walk home and to get ready for the next week ahead of us. We were all so happy to see the puppies and so grateful for Annie and the Marshalls to take such great care of them while we were away.

Summer began again. The girls had ASB everyday for the next couple in the morning where they made signs for the upcoming school year. There was plenty of paddle boarding at the beach and even got to go out with Sadie and Shawna all together for a day.

The girls continue to spend time with Clara, Francesca, and Keira a couple times a week even they took the time to TP our house with Sadie while she was here.

We enjoyed getting to spend the 4th close to home. Had Scott, Roman and Steph swing by in the morning before not only our block but many around us were blocked off for some epic party fun. The Marshalls and Mom joined the Adams, then headed back home joined by the Knobbe's. We had great food and played games in the street. Cienna and Kaylee went to the bay for a bit and then came to join in our fun in the neighborhood when they realized it was crazy there : ) They brought friends for the food and festivities before the massive firework display! We may have let them on the roof to get a better look.

The Briefs then invited us to the Sawdust festival in Laguna. We took Shawna and met up with them and Mariela and her mom. It was cool to see such talented artists and unique designs. We headed for lunch before joining the Bakx to watch the USMNT soccer game.

Cienna had a night at a beach house with friends. Then on the way to gym we all go Slurpee's at 7-11 which were left in the freezer as we were on the way to gym. It also happened to be Denise's retirement party after gym that night. Crazy how many years and how many stories she has gone through with the same gymnastics center.

Throughout the weeks, the girls have been keeping up with summer school on a pretty aggressive schedule. Cienna taking a college Music Theory course, and Kaylee doing both Spanish and PE. However, still keeping up with and hanging out with friends more than ever. Meanwhile, Mom and dad fixed a leaky water heater spending only a few $ instead of replacing!

Lastly, Mom snagged Chum Chum from the Netter's to bring camping in DogWood near Lake Arrowhead with 16 other amazing people and their puppies which started with great food, games, music, and a night hike on the first night.

The rest of Dog Wood camping and another with a trip up North to see family to follow!

Not funny how time flies.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/X4FkhbZaEdVcUopR7 

Cienna - 17 Years 5 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 15 Years Old!

Again, too many things. All great, it's like they crawl one day and then walk the next. Got the Three Musketeers back together to celebrate Adi's 15th for a Sunday dinner in Seal Beach. Then the end of the school year was in full affect as summer made it's presence. After Cienna spent just a couple hours between school finals and gymnastics practice to somehow go paddle boarding with friends, she convinced us that we too needed a blow up paddle board. What a handy thing to have in Long Beach. 

The following week we had the girls last concert of the year (Music in the Air). Both girls sang and we all had fun hanging in the quad. Cienna may have high tailed it out of there after her performance to get to Evan's guitar concert. Then they spent the morning making corsages and boutonnières for the Wilson Senior Prom. Then got all dressed up for pictures at the Belmont Fountain with Dad, and had a great night at the Diamond Center.

That same week Cienna started her campaign for ASB VP with Shawna as Pres. Should've won, but didn't end up that way. They'll both still do the work to make their senior year amazing!

We spent the next day together making Beer Can Chicken with Caesar salad after a day of shopping together. Kaylee then went to another summer kick-off for Ever's Birthday at the beach! Some of them apparently like to tan and Kaylee and the others went into the waves! Meanwhile the rest of us loaded up the bikes on the Escape and did a Huntington Beach Bike ride. 

Memorial Day while mom worked was spent hanging out at pools and making crafts for the upcoming gymnastics Y State Competition. The girls all got together and made each team award consisting of boogie boards, large pinwheels, etc. 

Mom and Dad then got an amazing opportunity to go with Mom and the girls friend Coach Kristen to a LA Galaxy game. Let's just say that Kristen and her family have had season tickets for a long time and this year they were no longer in the seats, but actually first row chairs on the field! It was insane. We had 8 course meal, all you can eat in the Champion Lounge right next to the locker rooms. A free snack bar. We followed the players out to the field... they gave us desert at half time! Unfortunately the LA Galaxy still lost, but they won their next game for the first time this season after winning the last.

Y State competition is not our favorite gym to compete, but we did get to make time before to visit with the Sklenicka's which always makes the trip WELL worth it! We had a great lunch at Karls Strauss and got to catch up and reminisce. The girls made it through the competition with huge helicopter fans unfortunately without the seniors on their team whom competed the next night. We weren't super sad to get home late on Saturday instead of Sunday.

Especially since we had Grammy and Greg coming the following morning for breakfast! Although Cienna had gotten to meet Greg before when she went up north on a field trip the rest of us got the pleasure to hang out with him all day. 

We made breakfast, including orange juice whip cream bacon drinks apparently, got to open our new blow up paddle board, before the girls took off with Grammy to go shop some thrift stores leaving Greg to hang out with the cool kids to have a beer and relax. After Grammy brought the girls back with a dress for both Mark and I we headed out to Naples Rib Co for dinner!!!! There wasn't a lack of food in our bellies, so we went on a walk around Naples to take in the scenery which was the same scenery Cienna had done plenty of previous dance pictures : )

Wait, only now the school year starts to come to an end. There's still two weeks left. Nope, I can't even. Ok. Cienna does pre last week's of school with friend breakfasts (plural). Apparently final are over, but they all did great so....  The girls and A'layah then "lock-in" at gym with Sat. practice doing new and improved skills, Cienna gets to go to Cirque du Soleil with the Brief's, and doing some toilet papering afterward. (why waste the paper : ) )

Finals week was the previous week for Cienna and she did great, grades were pretty much already established. Kaylee didn't even have to take some of hers since she did so good through the semester. For the graduation ceremony Cienna got honored to be on the field as a junior to be part of the Junior Honor Guard and lead out the senior class.

Then it was the last day of school. Pretty mellow, until school got out. Cienna and I took most of Kaylee's friends home to our house for the beginning of Kaylee's school friend birthday party. Kaylee and I went to go pick up more then proceeded to drive to Seal Beach (including the Bronco) for a end of the school year slash beginning of Kaylee birthday party fun-time. They all had fun with tanning, beaching, volleyballing, seeing other friends, snacking, etc. till it was time to go home for more fun. We then had way too much Dominos pizza, but also vegetables, and ice cream cake before an outdoor movie with fire pit. Next up was apparently more TP'ing and all the girls finding a place to sleep in the living room.

You know you get along when the party lasts over 24 hours. They had a great breakfast of muffins, bacon and eggs. and decided swimming at the neighbors would be fun. It turned out they were right and continued to enjoy each others company till the girls had to leave for practice.

Party's don't stop, but not many get to say they got to go to a 60th wedding anniversary! There is no way to explain how amazing Joan and Larry are. We loved being able to celebrate this milestone with them and look forward to the next. It's always fun to talk about their latest adventures. And this celebrated all the ones they've gotten to experience. Kaylee then had a "Freshman" only bonfire at the beach. After we picked them up we all had fun chillin at the Marshall's fire pit.

Next up was a little bit of a dilemma. Father's Day happened to be on Kaylee's Birthday. So it became only Kaylee's Birthday. However, I think that it was planned perfectly for both! We played games all together in the yard and made chicken wings for dinner. This was of course after breakfast (brunch) at Starbucks for a free drink, Cassidy's Corner, Blue Bowl, and LBX Brewery!

Next up was Cienna and her friends being amazing as always and planning a trip for them all to go to Catalina. It's really heartwarming letting your kids experience great things that they are creating. Kaylee also took the blow up paddle board to the peninsula and got to go all around Naples having fun the whole day with a friend. There was a Goonies's beach movie night as well at Granada Beach.

Summer is not off to a slow start as always. We have more graduation and birthday parties and are headed to Wisconsin!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/HKaDPj18zaNLsD2D6

Cienna - 17 Years 4 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 14 Years 11 Months Old!

Freya got to enjoy the Easter preparations with us. We dyed eggs, and since Cienna found the big bunny last year we were in charge of filling it this year for the Easter hunt at the Snow's. We had a great morning together with baskets full of flowers, and an egg hunt. We were holding off on food since we were going next door to an amazing brunch with all foods imaginable. After we ate, the kids got to hunt for more eggs after the adults hid them. The big bunny which had a Quest headset associated was at the top of the CB antenna. Haiden found it and was the proud winner. The girls were also spoiled with more Easter baskets and we all had a great time.

Mom then headed to San Diego both Sat. and Sun. to coach the Level 6's at their Regional competition. They did great and was a good experience for all. Next up, Dad had an work onsite visit at MPK. Great to see people in person sometimes and put your minds together as well as have dinner and fun bonding. Meanwhile, Roaklee had a 4th Birthday and the girls made a banner for A'layah and Francesca who were headed off to North Dakota for gymnastics. The girls also had one of their last Choir concerts. Keira and Clara as well as Evan came to support.

Meanwhile Dad came home for a couple of hours before heading out to the annual Brewfest for his Birthday! Kaylee also left that day for a Freshman field trip tour to USC and UCLA early in the morning. Dad had a great time with always amazing friends at Brewfest. Had fun, good food, and good company.

Celebrated dad the next morning as studying for the upcoming AP test also took precedence. Kaylee had her's first, and Cienna had one that first week, and her others were the following. They both felt pretty good about how they may have turned out. No results yet.

Since Evan and Cienna realized it was fun and a money saver to make their own corsage and boutonniere, they wanted to do it again the morning of the Millikan prom. We had an even better idea to take advantage of our wonderful neighbor who's yard is full of amazing flowers. The power happened to go out that morning, so it was warm, but they still had fun and we got the flowers into the frig in hopes they would last. Cienna then went to Shawna's to get ready with buddies.

We took advantage of the truck having a plug in the back and used it to keep the refrigerator running. And also used the battery powered projector to watch a couple shows. Before that, Mom and Kaylee went to the local fish store (not for eating) to get filters for our tank and decided we might as well get another fish... or two. One of them is an algae sucker. We named them "brass" and "monkey." Mom took Cienna and Evan to Seal Beach for pictures, and then to LA for dinner at the "Original Marketplace".  All the kids got their own food at whatever vendor and met up together to eat before heading to the dance at the Peterson Car Museum. The dance was a success, Mom picked them up, took Evan home, hung out for a bit before calling it a night.

We spent the rest of the weekend preparing for Cienna's campaigning. She is going for ASB Vice President next year. She had amazing plans and ideas over and beyond posters. Clothes pins, with googly eyes, clever slogans, and poster print outs as well as Big Sun Glasses pictures with supporters around campus. Kaylee also helped spread the word through the Freshman class.

AP studying and tests continued. And as the school year ends there are Finals approaching and end of year projects to do. The girls truly are hard workers and care about being proud of what they do.

Cienna, Shawna, and Emma even celebrated the end of AP testing with a paddle boarding trip followed by a fire pit night together.

We all took the dogs to the beach in the Bronco, for time together and smoothies at Tru Nature. Kaylee had a shopping day and sleepover with friends for Marissa's Birthday which may or may not included TP'ing. We ended the month with a dinner planned by Kaylee to celebrate Adi's 15th birthday. We went to The Hangout with some Marshalls and Vigliotti's to catch up and enjoy time together as always.

I'd say the end of the school year gets busy, but busy isn't the word that should be used. We look forward to everything that is coming and try to appreciate each day!

Enjoy the photos!!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/5rqyhSbLbPB6VHty5

Cienna - 17 Years 3 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 14 Years 10 Months Old!

Pictures speak volumes. Time is precious. High school open house. Great school, interesting teachers. Most good, so that works.

The girls both completely rocked their USAG state meet qualifying for Level 9 Regionals in Utah. Turns out that the whole team made it. One more opportunity as a team to be together before 3 of them leave for college next year.

Mom's Birthday spent with the family, exactly as she wants everyday to be! Celebrated with Francesca at gym as well. Cienna did an honor choir concert. Mom and Dad loved the company at Joan and Larry's for an Octoberfest in Long Beach!

Dana, Mike, Ashley and Poppa came to visit. We had so much fun catching up, Angels game!, Dana and Ashley went to a Dancing With The Stars Tour in Hollywood, Played Corn Hole, and BBQ ribs! Loved the family time.

Cienna had headed off Friday morning before they came on an amazing road trip with 50 or so friends. Her choir peeps saw so many places and had an unforgettable experience. They started out in Fremont, they sang in so many different acoustic locations. Cathedrals, tunnels, hotel lobbies, restaurants, you name it. Was pretty cool that Grammy and Greg were able to meet up with them and hear her sing as well. She got to go on two large busses hitting up the coolest hotels and sights along the way. Including the Golden Gate Boat Tour, Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, SLO, and every sunrise and sunset she could have hoped for!

Next up UTAH! We certainly made the most out of our time. Most of the team was on the flights together. After the flight, we arrived at the hotel. Maybe not the best choice hotel, but three of our rooms all shared a balcony which was cool. We soon left for a two hour or so road trip to the Salt Flats. We picked up Emma along the way who happened to be there for her sisters Volleyball tourney and is taking up photography in her spare time. We got there on a great day to enjoy an UTAH sunset, and huge moon at the same time. This was the first of SO many photo ops throughout the weekend.

Next up was SWIG... not a fan. Afterward we went to East High. High School Musical was filmed there and the girl all did the dance in front. Turns out it was right next to University of Utah. We looked up the gymnastics practice gym and checked out the campus.

The whole team competed on Sunday. Went from youngest to oldest. Kaylee was first up in the morning. She had some shining moments making judges smiling on floor which usually don't and nailing her vault. A'laya was next to compete and had a great competition. Then Cienna with the rest of the team were in the 3rd session of the day. Cienna also made judges smile, her smile is infectious, and got personal best on 2 events as well.

Dinner afterward with the team and all coaches was a perfect ending to the long day. Monday most of us were on the later flight to LB so we did some hiking at the Red Butte gardens, then hit up the University of Utah gymnastics again where the head coach let us in to watch their final training before Nationals. We then went back to East High since it was open for tourists before heading to the airport and enjoying another flight home together with friends.

Girls made the most of the next days of Spring break. They spent time at the beach, relaxing, and using the time wisely for upcoming school assignments. Cienna went to a flower farm with Shawna and Emma, Kaylee got a bucket of ice thrown on her with Frankie to spread mental health awareness. 

I feel like bullet points are the way to go, but never works that way. So grateful for all the opportunities that we have together and with such great friends!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/pB1qwuJPJQfV9Voe7

Cienna - 17 Years 2 Months Old! ... Kaylee - 14 Years 9 Months Old!

Second winter formal for Cienna was at Wilson High School. We thought it would be fun for Cienna and Evan to make their own boutonniere and corsages. Mom and Cienna went to the local flower shop and met a very enthusiastic flower shop lady that was a lot of help, and a lot of fun. Cienna brought the flowers to Evan's that morning and then came back home for us all to head over for a BBQ celebration for Stone turning 18 years old at the Bakx house! Came home in time to take Cienna to the Naples fountain for pictures, they went to dinner at Shoreline Village and then the formal on a boat at the Port of LA. It is an even vote as to which Formal was better.

After the late night we had our first (most likely last as we don't seem to like surprises) surprise Birthday Party for Cienna since her previous plans fell through. Her friends all showed up in her room Sunday morning, we then stopped by Francesca's Senior project Friends run on our way to Sunrise Cafe for breakfast.  Afterward we headed to Sender One for some indoor climbing challenges. They had a good time challenging themselves and being together. Back at home we had ice cream cake, opened some presents, and chilling for the afternoon.

We made a mini vacation the following weekend in Indian Wells. Mom had to be there Sat. evening for the Level 6 competition before the girls competition on Sunday. So we all went early Sat. and stopped by the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway before getting to the hotel. It was a great recommendation. The bottom was Sunny and expected. Then at the top of the Tramway, there was snow hiking and colder weather. It was pretty crazy to see the change in climate in all of about 10 minutes.

The competition was supposed to be 45 min away in Corona, but due to technical difficulties ended up at the fancy Renaissance Esmeralda in Indian Wells. We chose a less fancy (less expensive) route at the Indian Wells (original Lucille Ball/Desi Arnez) resort. It was still pretty cool. We didn't expect a suite with two doors into the two queen bedroom. While girls were with the L6's dad got dinner. We were starved after, but made due with burgers in the room. Got to bed late, but got to sleep in as the girls didn't compete till the afternoon. We got some hotel breakfast, made our way to the resort, got some smoothies, met up with teammates, even played some ping pong and foosball before starting. Was a fun meet and a good ride home.

Before the next competition (the next weekend) we enjoyed a good sunset with a photo op at the nearby parking garage. Then Toby Wells in San Diego was a Sunday event. A late one at that! We made the most of it by getting to spend time with the Sklenicka's for lunch! Those boys get so much bigger, and ever wittier every time we see them. Always great to see Joe and Dana as well! After the level 6's, the girls didn't start till about 6pm. Meaning.... after a some great routines..... we didn't get out of SD till about 9:30, means home late for a Sunday!

Didn't phase the flow of the week. We had Ortho's, dentist's, Optometrists, and even SAT's (all scheduled, no emergencies). Highlight of the week was Cienna's amazing experience at City Hall with her Youth Leadership Long Beach group. She got assigned to represent District 2 of Long Beach for Government day in a meeting of representatives and the city community to discuss the use of e-bikes on the beach bike path. It was a full day where they got to spend understanding and being a part of how the city works. They spent the day with the mayor and got a great understanding of the processes necessary to make a change. Cienna left with a bigger desire to get involved in the law process and wanting understand what it takes to become someone that can make a direct impact.

The next weekend didn't go as planned, but we took it in stride. Saturday we got stuff done to get ready for the week, Daddy made the Annual Rydman Red from garden hops, and we all worked around the house. Plans were set in motion for an easy fun Sunday. We were going to go for a test drive in a car Mom has been researching for quite some time. Then bike to a flower shop to get Auntie Kimmie flowers for her Chili 65th birthday party next door, followed by a Thai restaurant Mom was going to go to for her and Minda's birthday with a few other friends.

Test drive happened. 5 hours later we bought a car (Shouldn't have taken that long, but I guess that's how it goes for a deal). We were unfortunately late for Auntie Kimmie's Birthday, so didn't get to get flowers. She still gave us delicious chili, and even desert! I think she forgave us after we told her why we were late.

We got some unfortunate news that afternoon, and went to go spend some time and say goodbye to Lula. She's been a such big part of our family since the Marshall's brought that adorable puppy home over 10 years ago and the children declared her and Porter married. We will never forget her face with the joy and recognition she had every time we got to see her and spend time with her. Weather it was just picking up kids, visiting for an hour, or keeping her with us for a week or more. She truly made our lives more fulfilled as all loved ones do. We miss her already, but will never forget her.

It's also important to appreciate the value in having great friends that are understanding and make a big impromptu change of set plans because they care so much! Thank you.

Very busy St. Patricks day with work and gym. We did buy a corned beef, but didn't get made till the 18th. Cienna worked out after gym at the Y with friends and had froyo that she didn't bring home to the family. We still love her.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/f5KPh42dCpcf3EnQ9

Cienna - 17 Years 1 Month Old! ... Kaylee - 14 Years 8 Months Old!

The infamous egg drop started the month. Emma and Savannah came over for a trial run. They all brought ideas and fun items to ensure their success. The huge teddy bear along with rubberbands, a cardboard box and some physics knowledge survived not only a drop from Cienna's room, then from a 5 story parking garage, and finally the 800 building for the A+ they deserved.

That A along with the AP Physics final as well as the successful AP Pre-Calc final that happened on Cienna's birthday made for a good start or relieving finish to the morning. She then had gymnastics and some delicious desert to finish it off. The rest of finals week was nothing after that. Kaylee was also very successful with A's yet again for the first semester in High School.

Mom and Dad went to help celebrate with Jana at the GasLamp for her 50th birthday. We hadn't been out that late in a while and will probably not for another while, but had such a great time with great people.

Cienna had a Birthday party scheduled the next day, but she took it in stride when she found out that it had to get postponed, so instead she got in some more practice with Shawna, Emma, and Lily for their upcoming Backstage Bistro performance of Earl Had to Die : ) We had so much fun watching as they always put up such great talent, and again her gym family came to watch!

Next up was Millikan's Winter Formal. They all started with pictures at Rancho Los Alamitos. It was beautiful and so were they. Both Kaylee and Cienna's friends went followed by dinner at LBX so everyone could choose what they wanted to eat. The dance was in Yorba Linda at the amazing Nixon Library. They all had so much fun and even Clara and Keira from gymnastics joined as their guests. They enjoyed dancing, food, games, pictures, and a gorgeous setting. Again mom stayed up till midnight picking them up and bringing them home, but was happy to do so seeing how much fun they all had.

Cienna did a post brief breakfast with friends at the Coffee Parlor down the street before we had our first meeting with her Collegewise counselor. So far it's been a great benefit! The following weekend was the girl's second meet. It was in Ontario this time for the Glider's Invitational. After their competition, Mom and Kaylee stayed over night to be there for the Level 6's the next morning before the Super Bowl. We had an amazing luxury suite and had a fun evening. Dad took Cienna home as she had a Galentines planned at Shawna's house that morning.

We had a great time for Super Bowl making snacks and eating too much. Mac joined us and we loved the banter over the game, half time show, and commercials. The next week we got some much needed rain. Mom had the best run and walk ever with both dogs. She loves the rain. 

Valentines day was fun at school with colors and hearts that ASB had been working on for days. Dad even made chocolate cover strawberries for the girls while we were at gymnastics.

The girls all went the next morning in support of FLA to do a beach clean-up. Lil Miss Long Beach (Shawna) was there promoting the event with Justin Rudd. It was great to see the community coming together especially after the rain had brought in so much debris. They even had a raffle that we ended up getting picked to win a basket made up by Spas for Paws which had so many treats for our puppies. We ended up being sad we didn't bring them that morning since it was right next to Rosie's dog beach, so we took them the next morning. They had SO much fun! We went for the second time that weekend to the local smoothy place (Tru Nature) for some Acai bowl breakfast.

Dad went with Roman to watch the LA Galaxy play a preseason game at the Coachella Invitational and even ran into an old Garden Grove Arena Soccer player Christian Rameriz who signed for the Galaxy. We spent most of the rest of the day doing college prep for Cienna including making gymnastics highlight reel and reaching out to coaches of schools that she is interested in. Kaylee and the rest used the time wisely cleaning, mowing lawns, and getting ready for a day off... except mom still had to go to work. But the day off for those had a relaxing day and used it wisely.

And as always look forward to what's next and more love and adventure to share!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/wSxLBiBpC21eycrN9

Cienna - 17 Years Old! ... Kaylee - 14 Years 7 Month Old!

More holiday musics concerts, friend gift exchanges, Team gymnastics party, Quincenera for Leah that Kaylee got to attend, ice skating for Cienna and her friends that didn't happen but a fun get together did anyway. We even found some time to redesign the competition banners at the Y.

Meanwhile before Christmas we took the time to clean up the girls rooms, as far as full on painting walls, new blinds, and re-organizing! Next up Christmas Eve at the Snows. Delicious food, gift exchanges, cookie contests, and time together.

Christmas morning was as good as ever. Girls came to our bed, we spent time, first watching a movie together then spending the rest of the morning feeling grateful to be together. We then headed to the Ferrario's for a very exciting time with all kinds of animals, humans of all ages as well as many other species! We're so lucky to have so many great friends that welcome us as family!

More friends continued to make our holiday amazing as we headed to Greg's Cabin for the following week. It's so nice to be together with the dogs in such a beautiful place in the mountains! We played games, went for walks, and made food together. We ventured downtown for some food and sight seeing as well.

We had promised 3 days of boarding to the girls last year since it is hard to improve only going one day a year. Unfortunately there wasn't so much snow this year, but we still had such a great time with the man made snow, and were even joined by Mac and Nicki for our third day!

We loved that all the Marshalls came to join us for New Years Eve! We got to share the amazing cabin and all the fun times with them as well. Even making up new games to play in the Culdesec. Although the weather was not as expected, it was still beautiful and a great time together.

After returning home, we still had the rest of the week off work and to be together. Cienna got to celebrate with Emma for her birthday. The Three Musketeers made some mischief1 of one kind or another before the girls got back to gymnastics practice anticipating their upcoming first competition of the season in Vegas.

We headed for Vegas on a plane with the Waters Friday after school. Coach George was also on our flight! After we got settled in Paris we all went to the Wahlburgers for dinner. The Strip was interesting as always with plenty of entertainment. Then after a good night sleep and a breakfast from CVS (since everything else was way too busy and expensive) we got up early to watch KC compete before the rest of the girls were up. They had many accomplishments for the first meet of the season. Cienna stuck both her double back off bars and her front full on floor as well as her beam routine. Kaylee pulled off her full beam routine including her back hand spring back tuck and front tuck. Also got First place on floor!

Afterward we all went to ice cream at Ben & Jerry's then while the girls hung out in the Lobby Mom and Dad did some serious gambling. We went down with $10 and came back with $15!

To end the month Cienna and Dad went to the State of the City event which was very informative. Mayor Richardson talked about upcoming activities happening this year including preparing for the 2028 Olympics and bringing the music back to Long Beach. Also discussed how hard the city has worked to fundraise fire relief for all the families effected by the devastating fires that have destroyed so much of Southern California in the past weeks.

We were lucky to end the month with a visit by the Natal's! They came to spend the day with us on the way to Disney. We had so much fun talking and spending time together!

Coming next is Cienna's 17th and so much more as always.

Enjoy the pictures and videos that do so much more than the words.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/JbGUzC26GKaBhz3K9