Jenn's Bistro & Gala's Journal: A piece of my mind / heart!

2011-05-12T08:56:00.000-05:00

They say "the more things seem to change, the more they stay the same". Since my last entry I've had many things happen, and at the same time, "not much". The one thing that never changes is God's grace and faithfulness towards this useless servant. His streams of mercy, never ceasing!
I'm enjoying my choir singing very much. This past Easter Sunday I had the privilege of singing not only my favorite hymn: "In Christ Alone" with my best friend, but also Haendel's "Halleluyah", which ended up being majestic beyond words.
My personal life has had ups and downs, twists and turns, but two things I am sure of: I'm alive, and God loves me. So everything else doesn't seem that important, right?
My Gala... (*sigh*) My Gala turned four. It seems that she's four going on fourteen! She's so bright and curious and bubbly, and she makes my life sunnier. She wonders a lot, questions a lot, sings a lot. She's loving and an excellent negotiator. She's a great eater too.
Her baby days have slipped through my fingers like sand, but her company is the best.
She's in love with Mérida, where grandpa René moved.
She is a blessed child and I love her so!
Workwise, I was promoted yesterday. After six years (yes, SIX) I was finally offered a classroom! I pray for my future students, honored at the privilege it will be to leave my imprint in their lives...
Privilege I do not and will not, ever; take for granted. u_u
Life is good, God is good, so yup: I'm good! <3
This blog is dedicated to those of you not only currently make my life beautiful, but whom I know for sure aren't leaving my side. -Evah!- The map to this journey wouldn't be complete without you. God shall fulfill His purpose... I know.

10-10-10 DaY ThE LoRd HaS MaDe!

2010-10-09T23:34:00.005-05:00

Hace dos años que por primera vez pensé como sería el 10-10-10, día en que cumpliría 38 años. Como bien saben, nunca me ha molestado decir mi edad. Creo que quitarme años sería quitarle honor a quien honor merece, porque de verdad he sido bendecida. (También es cierto que *ejem* no me veo de 38, y pienso como una mezcla de una niña de 8 y una señora de 58). La realidad es que pasaré este día como TODOS mis días: con un perfil bajo, agradecida por sobre todas las cosas con Dios que en todo me ha sido bueno y fiel. Cae en domingo, así que estaré en mi iglesia que amo; ensayando con el coro que amo, interpretando a gente que amo, y más tarde en una sencilla comida con mi familia que amo. He pasado por muchas experiencias, no todas buenas, pero todas me hacen ser lo que soy hoy. Estoy agradecida por todo lo que me ha pasado, pues de todo he aprendido. He cometido errores, y pasado por pruebas muy duras; pero Dios es un Dios de segundas oportunidades y eso es enorme! No tengo rencor en mi corazón. Pocas cosas de las que aún me arrepiento y que he entregado a Él. Felíz de servirle en lo que en mi inútil naturaleza me pida. Los talentos y dones que me ha confiado no los tomo en vano. Tampoco el que me eligiera a mí, a mí! para mamá de esa tremenda princesa. De "regalo" quiero tiempo para disfrutar mi regalo de Navidad! jajaja (Una hermosa guitarra acústica negra). Mi gente protegida en oración, y mi corazón por completo a cada uno de ellos. Puedo asegurar qu lo mejor está por venir. Gracias, mi Padre. u_u<3
Este post está dedicado a todos los que de alguna manera se han cruzado en mi camino y han aportado a este mapa de experiencias que llevo dibujado. Ojalá yo siempre les deje marcas buenas. A mi familia, por supuesto. A mi Nonna, la mujer más hermosa del mundo. Y a mi querido amigo Juanjo. Ci vediamo, caro amico. Mi manchi! u_u<3

It was 2 years ago that I first started to wonder how 10-10-10 would be like; the date in which I would turn 38 years old. I have never had any hangups about revealing my age, doing so would mean diminishing many , many blessings. (Truth be told, I don't look 38! And I think like a mix between an 8 year old and a 58 year old lady...) I will spend this birthday like I spend ALL my days: very low key, and thankful for God has been faithful and true in everything. It's Sunday, so I'll be in the church I love, with the people I love, singing in the choir I love, signing to people I love... then having a low key lunch with my family, whom I so love. Happy to serve Him as He sees fit in this useless servant.
I've been through all kinds of experiences, good and bad; all of them make me who I am today.
I have learned a lot from them. Made mistakes, been through rough trials, but God is a God of second opportunities and that is HUGE! There is no strife in my heart. The talents I've been entrusted with I do not take for granted. Nor the fact that I was entrusted with being a mom to my mischievous princess. For a Birthday "present", I want time to enjoy my Christmas present! (My black acoustic guitar). My people protected in prayer, and my loyal heart poured out to each one. The best is yet to come. Thank you, Heavenly Father!
This post is dedicated to anyone who's run into my path and drawn a mark. I wear those marks proudly like a map of experiences. I hope I have in turn left good marks on you as well. To my family, of course. To my Nonna: the most beautiful woman ever. And to my dearest friend, Juanjo. Ci vediamo, caro amico. Mi manchi! u_u<3

UnCle ReNe's wEdDiNg!!!!

2010-05-29T21:45:00.003-05:00

Our beautiful family, on a most joyous day!

You LOVE flowers! And they love you back. ; )

Here comes the Bride... beautiful!

And the happy couple. My baby brother is married! I'm so glad it was your first wedding, my little girl!!!!

Our first veggie garden project! May 2010

2010-05-29T21:32:00.002-05:00

I haven't bloged in a long time, my love. But it is also true that we have spend so much quality time, just relaxing, enjoying, laughing and playing together... and I have become more jealous of what I choose to share... Last saturday you experienced your first wedding! And today we started your very own veggie garden. These are the pics.

The funniest part was when we planted everything and you spontaneously took out your kazoo (you're a natural!) and started playing fro the plants. Today was also the first time you asked to pray in the morning and said a complete and beautiful prayer, in Jesus' name. You amaze me every day. I am in love.

Carrot seeds... in tiny hands...

Preparing the soil. We had so much fun we even made kits for your classmates! But that pic went to mom's craft blog...

FeLiZ CuMpLe TrEs, GaLa NoEl!!!

2010-03-07T22:13:00.003-06:00

Marzo 8. Día internacional de la mujer, y tres años del día más felíz de mi vida. Siento un poco de remordimiento porque no he publicado fotos ni updates desde Septiembre. Culpo a Facebook, que lo ha hecho más fácil; sin embargo Facebook sólo es bueno para "telegramas" y no para rollos, y a mí me encanta echar rollo... Mi hija mide 98 cms., bastante para su edad. Es alegre, sana, curiosa, expresiva, pero sobre todo: felíz. Su vocabulario es extremadamente amplio para su edad, y disfruta muchísimas cosas.

Ama los animales, bailar, cantar, dibujar é ir al parque. Hasta ahora, lo único que no le gusta son los champiñones, y bañarse bajo el chorro de la regadera. Le encanta su escuela y hace amigos donde quiera que va. Lo más hermoso es su autoestima, que siempre está por arriba de todo. Es una niña segura y eso es lo que más le admiro.

Su color favorito ya no es el naranja sino el rosa. Aún ama los pepinos, los jitomates, los plátanos, fresas y uvas. Usa verbos que no existen, de maneras muy graciosas. Ama a su papá.

En honor de su cumpleaños, escribiré la pequeña crónica del día que nació; para que la pueda leer cuando crezca y a su mamá se le vayan los detalles más chiquitos... porque es una hermosa historia.

Miguel y yo fuimos a la consulta de los ocho meses, el 8 de Marzo de 2007. Gala estaba programada para nacer 22 días después, por lo que sólo debía ser una consulta rápida: Edgar (mi doctor, mánager y amigo) me revisaría brevemente y revisaríamos últimos detalles. Sin embargo, esta no sería una visita de rutina. Mis tobillos estaban un poco más gruesos y pensó en mandarme Apresolina para la presión. Y luego se empezó a reír... nos volteó a ver y preguntó: "Tienen planes para al rato?" "Porque nace HOY".

Miguel y yo nos vimos. "Creo que debo llamar a mis papás", le dije. "Vayan a casa por su maleta y los veo en una hora en el hospital". Recuerdo que me había comido una manzana de camino a la consulta y fué lo último que comí en las siguientes 36 horas.

Edgar salió a fumar y lo regañé. Ibamos tan nerviosos y emocionados rumbo a casa por la maleta, que llamamos a TODOS nuestros contactos del celular, incluyendo al mecánico!

Llegamos al Río de la Loza a las 7:00 pm, donde ya estaba mi amiga Silsa y su mami; mi hermano y una de las tres parejas de abuelos que mi afortunada hija posee (Los otros andaban en Mérida y Guadalajara). Miguel se cambió por ropa quirúrgica y me llevaron a preparar.

Meses antes yo le pedía a Edgar que me dejara entrar maquillada al quirófano. Quienes me conocen, saben que estar arreglada es muy importante para mí, y preferiría estar sin agua que sin labial. Edgar siempre dijo "NO", porque debía estar todo esterilizado.

Lo simpático es que un día antes yo había ido a alaciarme el pelo y a manicure y pedicure, y que con las prisas del "nace hoy" las enfermeras ni siquiera se acordaron de despintarme las uñas! Yo no quería ser de esas mamás que en su primera foto salen como si las huberan atropellado! Así que me salí con la mía y salí como actriz de la revista HOLA!

En el quirófano los doctores pusieron a Mecano, que me encanta y estuvieron contando chistes. Edgar me "durmió", por un rato (Miguel dice que hasta ronqué) y desperté cuando sentí a alguien practicamente sentado en mí, con las manos adentro de mi vientre. (Yo había pedido cesárea desde el principio. La idea de pasar una sandía por una fosa nasal nunca fué opción para mí).

Gala salió, se la llevaron a limpiar (como buena vegetariana, no soporto ver sangre en la carne, y menos si se trata de hueso de mis huesos y carne de mi carne!) y me la trajeron. Edgar dijo: "Vamos mamá, déle su beso que ya se va a descansar". Le dije "Happy Birthday" y le dí su beso. Todavía recuerdo su carita.

Me la llevaron a mi cuarto al día siguiente a las 10:00 am. La pusieron en mis brazos y me enamoré perdidamente y para siempre. Ese día le dedique muchas canciones y este blog.

Tres años después le dedico todo lo que hago. Anhelo compartir muchas cosas contigo. Quiero recibir una postal tuya de otro país y llorar de tristeza porque te extraño y felicidad por lo que estas viviendo. Quiero escucharte decir que estás enamorada, aunque resulte no ser "el bueno" aún. Quiero verte andar en tu bici, sentada al piano, jugando baseball, en un recital de baile, tomando mi labial rojo sin permiso... ...si eso es lo que quieres hacer.

Quiero verte soñar, y como a la fecha; bailar con los ojos cerrados, columpiarte con los ojos cerrados, abrazar con los ojos cerrados... porque como tu bien me dijiste: a veces, si cierras los ojos, se siente más.

Felíz cumpleaños, mi gran tesoro. Todos te queremos!

Candids :)

2009-09-15T23:28:00.002-05:00

You love that shopping cart.

At church. You also love going to church!

First day of school. You look adorable. I'm so happy that outfit still fits, because you're dressed EXACTLY like your doll.

Aunt Bebe gave you your very first nail polish. It's clear, but has little pink hearts floting. She did your 20 little fingers and you enjoyed every second of it. I put special scented lotions on your itty-bitty feet and hands. We played SPA. However this is something we will only do in vacation, to make it special. You've had a great summer and a great start of the school year. And your lunches rock so much I had to start a blog just for that. Love, Mommy.

SuMmEr Part 2

2009-09-15T23:10:00.002-05:00

Swimming at Aunt Bebe's house. You LOVE it! It is a delight to watch you in water.

With the primos at Panoaya.

Quick visit with Uncle René...

Yup, your grandma actually gave you two chalk and a huge patio. Ahhh... grandmas are quite somethin', aren't they?

You bet. We made it fit. We even filmed you guys in our very own "croc cam". What a summer! I love you!

SuMmEr PiCs... part one.

2009-07-25T23:17:00.003-05:00

So far it's been a great summer! You've already been to Acapulco and Hacienda Panoaya and had a blast! You had your first visit to the sea, being pushed by waves you didn't Looove, but the sand you did! You also visited another petting zoo in Hacienda Panoaya and you LOVED IT! The view from our room was beautiful. In fact, we all loved it so much we're going again next week, with your cousins! Busy and lovely summer! There are many pics, but I'll let them speak for themselves.

petting zoo & more...

2009-07-25T23:06:00.002-05:00

You LOVED the petting zoo!

Me too! BEST animal EVER! YAY!!!!!

The view from our room at Hacienda Panoaya in Amecameca, beautiful!

Relaxing at home in between trips...

The beach where you played. The ONE day it was calm...

SuMmEr PiCs... many!

2009-07-25T22:57:00.001-05:00

Feeding the croc french fries... you're a hoot you silly girl!

Couldn't resist.

2009-07-25T22:49:00.002-05:00

At Señor Frogs' Store. Acapulco. I'll let the pics speak for themselves...

Have I told you recently how beautiful you are?

SuMmEr PiCs...

2009-07-25T22:39:00.002-05:00

Your mamma bought you this crocodile and you just looooved it!

Being a parent is not being picky about getting down to the last speck of sand...

Hey good lookin'!

Our beautiful, silly, loving girl.

2009-06-30T00:00:00.003-05:00

My sweet little one. You have grown up so fast... You are only 2 years 3 months and already reach my hip in height. You'll be tall like your daddy. You are such a chatterbox! (You'll talk like mommy, hee hee). You know 4 poems by heart, about 20 songs in english and spanish. You count up to 20 in spanish and up to 11 in english. You name most colors in both languages. You love dancing and spinning and you LOVE playing "Gala's party" with cake and toy guests.

You had your first official taste of cotton candy, you now say "I have an idea" for EVERYTHING. You are a bit rebellious at times and you have a hard time understanding why we put soooo many limits; but at the risk of sounding like a mother; "you'll thank us someday".

You are the light of my life. You have the self-confidence that I wish I had my first 12 years of age. You are a happy, confident kid. You are blessed, you are loved. Every single cucumber kitty I've cut for you at midnight is worth it 100%! These are your pics for the month:

Hide and seek is one of your favorite games now. Too bad you always yell "I'm he-re!" before we can start lookin'!

You got that little scrape near your eye when you fell at school. You kept telling everyone to look at it. (It's all gone now).

You are just crazy about the hammock in our backyard, and you insist cheetah and other toys go in there as well...

You are soooo silly! And you even call yourself "silly girl"! But most of all, you are ALWAYS smiling. And that's what makes mommy happy.

More June candids...

2009-06-29T23:42:00.001-05:00

Relaxing with daddy in the hammock, with a temporary tatoo...

First time at a Merry-go-round. She LOVED it! Pink horsey, mamma!

At our friend Kathy's birthday party for her cute daughter Ximena. She's the one who sells the beautiful bows that I've become such a HUGE fan of, as you can tell by Gala's pics... There are other reasons why I'm in awe of her... Kathy, you rock!

Ok, is this the same gal that was terrified of sand last summer in Wisconsin?

June candids

2009-06-29T23:33:00.002-05:00

At the church's yard. She loves this one!

Like a true fashionista, she craves stuff with leopard print. I'm so proud!

She helped us with the bread before her daddy's 40's Lobster boil party!

At aunt "Von's" house this weekend, where she had a great time!

First Zoo Visit!

2009-05-27T23:33:00.002-05:00

If I may say so myself, this pic is worthy of the cover of National Geographic. To get it, I stood alone for 35 minutes and the lemurs really put on a show. Gala's first zoo visit was 5 months ago, but I hadn't uploaded the pics. It was so cool, but she fell asleep and missed many animals. Well, we have an excuse to return!

LOVE this pic.

Inside the butterfly pavilion. Last time I was there I was eight months pregnant and held an emperor scorpion.

He moved so fast, the pic's not as good. But Gala LOVED it! "Piguinos"!

May Candids

2009-05-27T23:16:00.002-05:00

Relaxing in the hammock / Relajada en la hamaca

Training bike Aunt Caro had made for you, isn't that sweet! / Una bici entrenadora para practicar el equilibrio. Tía Caro te la mandó hacer, que linda!

All decked out in her school uniform, ready to go. / Lista para ir a la escuela con su uniforme.

And with the clothes she likes the most... / Y con la ropa que más le gusta...

April Candids

2009-05-02T01:02:00.002-05:00

"Cooking"

Resting before a MUCH needed shower...

Marveling over your first slinky...

Playing pretend kitchen...

And playing with the guy you love the most!

Bouncy Castle for a Bouncy Princess

2009-05-02T00:53:00.002-05:00

Ever since your Lala got you this castle you want to do everything in it. Your favorite things to do are jumping and watching airplanes go by. Every time you see a plane fly you say it's cousin Caleb coming to see you. Someday, my love.

Oh what FUN!

2009-05-02T00:39:00.002-05:00

You were sooooo happy when you visited the Jacobi's for a swim, you are still talking about it a month later! You undress dolls and tell them they're going swimming at aunt Bebe's. She is such a great hostess and a beautiful example on how a family and marriage should be!

Posing with uncle Leo...

And with the lovely Sissi. Thankyou, Jacobi family for your hospitality and friendship. We love you.

Spring Break Fun

2009-05-02T00:20:00.004-05:00

You love water so much we think you're half mermaid. You were so excited to have "swum" this spring break, now you take the dish towels and lay them flat and hop in!

And then your Dad showed you how to splash people outside... that was a lot of fun.

We even caved in and let you have some potato chips...

Easter egg hunts 2009

2009-05-02T00:04:00.003-05:00

You were so excited about the egg hunt, you actually had two. One with plastic eggs, and one with the eggs your mommy decorated. You had a Clifford basket and you took my breath away when I saw you in this pretty yellow dress you wore to church on Easter sunday!

Second try at the hunt, you were'nt sure about the bunny ears, you wanted everyone else to wear them first! (And we did).

With the eggs your mommy marbelized. (It's a tradition!) Thank you Ana Lau for supporting my "kookiness", you are a friend.

So Berry Sweet!

2009-05-01T23:41:00.002-05:00

Arriving at Lala's, so girly!

Strawberry picking in the garden. She loooves it! The next pictures are all about her berry sweet findings...

Candid March Pics

2009-03-31T22:18:00.002-06:00

Beautiful as ever...

My honey gave me my favorite, yellow roses; for our seventh wedding anniversary on March 23. Merci cheri, je t'adore.

Another candid pose from my lil' cutie.

My friend Cathy sells these beautiful and ultra-femenine bows from spain and I'm just crazy about them!

And you can tell everybody...

2009-03-31T21:55:00.002-06:00

My brother and his alter ego. I spent the weekend with him in L.A. and just this past saturday we went to the Anaheim Honda Center to the Billy Joel & Elton John concert!!!! What an awesome way to spend the weekend, huh? Thanks, bro. I hope you don't mind, I hope you don't mind...

Me at the chinese theater.No, there was no one to ask me to leave my handprints.

Very early in the morning we were already at the Hollywood sign! On the way back we saw actor Dennis Quaid going for a walk.

It still seems like a dream. Goodbye, yellow brick road!

Happy Birthday Princess Gala!

2009-03-09T11:29:00.004-06:00

Here is our birthday princess who now answers "TWO!" when you ask her how old she is. She is as lovely as ever and quite a sharp little mind! She articulates phrases with prepositions, understands and says concepts like empty / full, también / tampoco, algunos / ninguno, some, none, first, last, primero /último and can also name all colors in both english and spanish; count to ten in english and spanish, recognizes most animals, all bodyparts, and identifies numbers 1 and 2 if seen somewhere. She is very witty and cracks us up constantly. Just yesterday she said: "Mamá enfermita, papá enfermito... ¡Que pena me dan!" Seriously, what's going on in that pretty little head?

She celebrated with her classmates and blew two candles on her cupcake. {By the time this pic was taken all the heart shaped confetti candy was gone from the cupcake...}

She pouts sometimes, but so far she is still a sweetie. We are aware the terrible two's will start soon... but we love her all the same!

HaPpY BiRtHdAy PrInCeSs!!!!!!

Bento - Share the cuteness!

2009-03-09T09:02:00.005-06:00

I just HAD to post these. Gala's second birthday was yesterday and my mom found these awesome hello kitty cookie cutters. Of course my brain started figuring out how to use them for Gala's bentos... so... Last night I got started. The picture above is cucumber. Click to enlarge and see detail, my favorite is the bear.

Now these are jicama, a crunchy white root that sort of resembles water chestnuts in texture. Luckily in Mexico we have lots and year round. I pressed each cutter into a thin slice of jicama.
Then I colored them with food coloring with a paintbrush (that I only use for food) and toothpicks. I will also try with apple, pineapple and pretty much any other sturdy veggie. Remember when you cut apples to dunk your artwork in acidulated water (you can make it yourself with citric acid or plain ol' lemon juice). Come to think of it, you can use any cookie cutter, just start with really thin slices. My favorite is the strawberry, above the cherries. Hard to believe it's jicama! The little hello kitty divider is home made too. I've had such a hard time finding anything bento, I took some paper and stickers and laminated them. If you scroll down to my older posts you might also see some other dividers I made with fancy origami paper.

Now I'll answer some FAQs: yes, I have a full time job monday through friday as a Children's Librarian; I study on saturday to get certified from 8 - 2; and sunday I teach a class on sign language and then translate the service to the deaf. Yes, I have a life {and I love it}.

No, I didn't dot my "i's" with little hearts. And the reason why I do this is because the bento way is a great way to eat healthy, and for Gala to smile when she opens her lunchbox and remembers her mama loves her.

For the record, on the days when I'm just too tired I'll pack applesauce and crackers with no special touch; which is fine by me, and fine by her too. : ) I also must give credit to my partner in everything, who plays with his daughter every day so that I can have a little time for myself. (Now you know what I do with that time!). I love you!

This post is dedicated to all our good friends who celebrate a birthday in March! Maria Angeles, Luis, Alex Escobar, Mildred, Gala Noel, Lynn, Caleb, Juan, Patrick, Carlos L., Janet, Don Charlie, Maddison, Angelica, Celina, Luis Marcel, Salvy, Paola, and triplets Tania, Andrea and Carlos Jr. And to Ivonne and Juan Pablo who celebrate their annivesary... ...and to Miguel & Jenn, who celebrate 7 happy years of marriage, too!

Mirror, mirror on the wall...

2009-02-01T23:41:00.002-06:00

Who is the fairest of them all?

My princess plays and runs, climbs and scrapes her knee... ...and to me, that's the way it oughta be!

Running towards her prince Charming, who bought her potato chips.

Once Upon a Time...

2009-02-01T23:22:00.004-06:00

Here is the story: Saturday we were going to Lala's house, all ready dressed in jeans, teal colored crocs and bows. I say "let's get you a teal colored t-shirt". She sees the Snow White dress and begs me to put it on. "No sweetie, maybe some other day". She gives me the look. I say: "I don't even think it fits you yet. But- let's find out". The second I saw her in it I almost cried. She was stunning. I was in awe, I was in love, I NEVER WANTED TO TAKE IT OFF! So we went to the park to let her run and play and twirl in this beautiful dress, 'cause life is too short not to let her be a princess. These are the pictures from that day (Some of them, anyway!).

I know it's the motherly thing to say, but I'm her mother, so I'll just say it anyway: ISN'T SHE JUST BREATHTAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL? Thank you, Lord; for giving her to US! You chose US!!!!!!

With OUR Prince Charming...

SoMe CaNdIdS...

2009-02-01T22:58:00.002-06:00

Showing off some of her Christmas presents! Yikes! She already reaches the pedals!!!

She just LOOOOVES that ballerina tutu...

Jumping is another favorite activity...

Posing in her raincoat with her very first lunchbox. Hello Kitty RULES!

Playing "house". Now if we could only get her to come outta there every now and then...

Bento style lunches / yogourt incident!

2009-02-01T22:38:00.002-06:00

Now That I have to pack her a lunch every day, I've had a lot of fun packing it "Bento style". This day she had a flower shaped quesadilla, flower shaped raw veggies and fruit. She also loves mini toast with babybel cheese, cherry tomatoes and of course, fish crackers!

Photo below: Ok, so I know it's hard to believe but this happened in a SPLIT SECOND! The Jenn in me wanted to run to get a moist towelette -right after I ran to get the camera-

AnD EvEn MoRe CaNdId PiCs

2009-02-01T22:14:00.001-06:00

Looking smitten at aunt Carolina's new house...

Feeding bunny...

Goofing around with mommy...

FrEe at LaSt!

2009-01-20T14:21:00.004-06:00

I just had to write something regarding today: The 44 president of the United States, Mr. Barack H. Obama gave his inuguration speech before thousands. Am I an american? No. I am mexican, but like many other "minorities" and republicans who voted for him I cannot help but have this enormous pride.

We've sure come a long way -as people- Like he said, years ago he wouldn't have been served in a restaurant and now he's leading a country; with thousands -millions- smiling in unison, with the sense of peace, the look of "finally!"; the soothness of the culmination of the work of Abe Lincoln, JFK, Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks and so many others who fought for the right to be treated and respected like any other human.

I pray for him and his family. And I sure support him like I did waaay from the start. Not only because I'm a christian, not only because I'm a democrat, not only because I believe in treating everyone the same, but because I believe in a better world for my daughter, and this is a major step towards achieving that goal.

Now for those who are already hoping for him to fail, looking for an excuse to point fingers; I say the same thing that I said when our president Felipe Calderón took his oath: You can't expect miracles instantly. You can't change a pattern of ignorance, stupidity and incompetence with a wave of a hand. He's only human, and has a big job to do. But he will succeed, and his success is our own.

To the people who doubt, to those who are skeptical, to those who are still living in 1930, astonished that a "colored man" rose that high; I say free yourselves from these ideas. This is the age of touch-screen, blogging, avatars and lasik eye surgery. You cannot move foward and have a 1930's mentality. You might as well wear a t-shirt that reads "ignorant fool". It is only then that we can believe -and live- "Free at last, free at last, thank God allmighty; we are free at last".

Can we do it? Oh, "yes we can"!

This blog is dedicated to all those who fight for what they believe in, for those who take a stand when needed, for those who are colorblind, the way God intended us to be when He said: love one another. To those who believe in a better place for our children and our children's children. You don't have to be an American to realize the importance of what happened yesterday. And if you're concerned with the economy, the job cuts, the crisis; {and you shouldn't, if you read my last blog} remember, when you reach the bottom there's no where to go but up.

2009 Is ThE YeAr wE LeT gO

2009-01-01T20:36:00.002-06:00

Welcome to the year 2009. Last night after attending church I was lost in the thought of pastor Gary's sermon. He preached about some mistakes people often make, and they could be summed up in two basic statements: we a)plan first and pray second, and b) we plan too far ahead, selfishly assuming, boasting even; that we'll still be around. If we are totally honest with ourselves we have to plead guilty to both.

Yes, there's nothing wrong with planning, hey: I'm a control freak in recovery, remember? But it is true that most of our plans involve what our heart desires, not Gods'. We don't say "Lord, do you want me to take this road?", but "Lord I really, really want this; so can I have it, please, please, pretty please?"

Another thing he touched on was the ever popular and ever dreadful procrastination. I'm talking about you, who said "I'll start a diet... ...after the holidays". "I'll go to church... ...some day". "I'll exercise and become more fit... ...soon".

The truth is, we don't know for a fact how many days we have; so why not stop beating around the bush and do it? Like I said, I confess of being guilty of some of these, which is why I was signing the sermon for the deaf and wondering why pastor was speaking right next to me like he was on to something. Which prompted me to blog about it because once it is in writing, you are commited to doing something about it.

It's not losing weight, it's not just going to church and leaving the same way you enetered, it's not just stopping smoking/drinking/swearing/ spending/gambling/overeating, it's not just getting that diploma, it's not struggling with the same issue that's hounded you for years. It's letting go and letting God, already. He's in charge.

People who worry and fret and panic over the crisis are people who do not trust God completely. If you knew your time was up, would you spend your final hours worrying?

New beginings. You still have some hours left. If you fail for a day, do it again. Don't look for excuses to quit. You can try to fool others, and you may succeed, you may even fool yourself at times but at the end of the day, when you're inside the covers and the light goes out, you know EXACTLY what I'm talking about.
Today is the first day of this year. If not now, when?

This blog is dedicated to you. I love you, believe in you and believe you play a BIG part in the world my baby will enherit. Now make yourself proud.

Bienvenidos al año 2009. Ayer saliendo de la iglesia me quedè meditando en la predicaciòn del pastor Gary. Hablò de errores comunes que cometemos y hubo dos cosas que resonaron en mi mente: a) Solemos planear primero y orar despuès, y b) Planeamos con demasiada anticipaciòn, asumiendo, casi jactàndonos de que aùn estaremos por aquì. Si somos totalmente honestos debemos admitir que somos culpables de ambas.

No tiene nada de malo planear (recuerdas que yo soy una "controladora en recuperaciòn"?); pero es cierto que nuestros planes son sobre lo que quiere nuestro corazòn, no el de Dios. No oramos: "Dios, quieres que tome este camino?", sino: "Dios, realmente quiero esto, asì que podrìas concedèrmelo, sì, sì, porfis...?"

Otra cosa que me viene a la mente es el dejar todo para "màs tarde". Hablo de tì, que "ibas a empezar una dieta... ...en cuanto terminen las fiestas", "ibas a ir a la iglesia... ...algùn dìa", "ibas a ejercitarte y ponerte en mejor forma... ...pronto".
`Cuando la realidad es que no sabemos cuànto tiempo nos queda, asì que por què no hacer algo al respecto YA?

Como dije, yo soy culpable de esto tambièn, por lo que interpretaba este sermòn en señas a los sordos y al mismo tiempo me preguntaba "estarà hablàndome a mì?", por lo que me sentì motivada a escribirlo en mi blog, para que tù tambièn te inspires y hagas algo; (y porque una vez que està por escrito te estàs comprometiendo y no hay vuelta de hoja).

No es sòlo perder peso, no es sòlo ir al templo y salir exactamente igual de como entraste, no es sòlo dejar de fumar/beber/decir groserìas/ gastar/ apostar, no es sòlo sacar tu tìtulo, no es enfrentar eso que te ha perseguido por años. Es admitir que tù no tienes el control, es Dios quien lo tiene.

La gente que vive en la preocupaciòn y mortificada por la crisis es la gente que no tiene a Dios en su corazòn, ni fè. Si supieras que te queda poco tiempo, usarìas ese tiempo para preocuparte?

Un nuevo año, un nuevo comienzo. Aùn tienes unas horas. Si fallas vuelve a intentarlo. No busques pretextos para dejarlo. Puedes engañar a otros, puedes engañarte a tì, pero la realidad es que al final del dìa, ya dentro de las cobijas; cuando se apaga la luz, sabes de lo que estoy hablando. Hoy es el primer dìa de este año. Si no ahora, cuando?

Este blog està dedicado a tì. Te quiero, creo en tì y creo tambièn que juegas un GRAN papel en el mundo que mi hija heredarà algùn dìa. Ahora haz algo que te haga sentir orgulloso.

MeRrY CHRISTmas to all!

2008-12-08T09:21:00.004-06:00

I'll be short with my words for a change because I'd rather you look at the pictures below. Just my usual three reminders: 1)Do something nice for your house. Even if you'll be out of town, you'll be happy to come back to a nice home. Put cranberries in a vase, a pinecone here and there. It's cheap and totally worth it.

2) We love you, pray for you and give thanks to God every day for knowing you and having you a part of our lives. You being a part of our lives is a blessing we do not take for granted. If you haven't told your friends you love them, do so. You'll be glad you did.

3)Please don't sign "happy holidays" on your cards this season. Let's put the CHRIST back in CHRISTMAS.

Now to some pics of our house decor {I'll post more soon} and a few of our number one blessing: Gala Noel Even though her birthday is in March, her name is synonym for "Christmas event". We miss you Nonna, I named my daughter thinking of you!

This blog is dedicated to the people who put lights all around their house. With the electricity bill as it is and the weather so cold you guys are my inspiration. To all the babies who just arrived unto the world before we say goodbye to 2008, and to all of you who BELIEVE. {Thank you honey, for uploading all my pics. Je t'adore}
Blessings and cheer, Miguel, Jenn, Gala Noel, Mr. Michou, Juliette & Madison. *<) : )

The PiCtUrEs

2008-12-08T08:56:00.002-06:00

I know, I know. Not very "Christmassy" but it looks better than the picture shows. Here's the thing: Christmas trees are very expensive, and the tree hugger in me still refuses to buy a natural one. Plus, with a toddler and 3 cats, well; not a good idea. So we donated our artificial Christmas tree to grandma (looks fabulous as always) and decided to decorate our CD tower cactus in chili-pepper lights this year. I know in years to come we might either still find it cool or regret it when it makes us look like rednecks, but hey: it's bright and that's all my baby wants.

Ok, that's the cactus with the lights on. See? it's not as bad as u think. The pine swag is festive enough to be noticed, and high enough to not be tugged at by anyone. Upon uploading this pic I noticed Mr. Michou is there behind the couch. I'll post the pic of my kitties' stockings soon. They're shaped like little paws. Awww!

It's so hard to look at this pic because a) she was eating pizza and rightdown refused to have her mouth wiped clean, and b) it's evidence that my little baby is gone (as if I didn't know that). She's a little girl now. Sometimes naughty, mostly nice, 100% genuine.

Now I KNOW all mothers say this, but isn't she a beauty!!! Down to her funky boots, she is the girliest Santa I've seen. She's at Lala's, of course, as you can tell by the dainty flowery decoration. Now THAT'S why I wanted a girl.

You are so beautiful... to me, you are so beautiful to me, can't you see? You're everything I hoped for, You're EVERYTHING to me, you are so beautiful to me.

MeRrY ChRiStMaS EvErYoNe!!! : )

In MeMoRiAm, {Roger Piza 1970-2008}

2008-10-16T12:33:00.006-05:00

Two days ago our friend Roger passed away unexpectedly. He was on a plane on the way back from the Philippines when his heart stopped. The news was spread and recieved with great shock and disbelief.

The thing is, Roger wasn't overweight, nor a drinker; he stopped smoking some time ago when his best friend died of a stroke. Roger was the "friend who's always there", or at least we seemed to think so.

The most loyal 1980's fan, he would only take jobs where he was allowed to wear jeans and sneakers, which we would tease him for. A hopeless romantic, a board game enthusiast, a dog person, a die hard fan of Meatloaf, Survivor, Billy Joel, Starship & Kiss. He was not ashamed to miss a friend's wedding for a concert and claimed "Name any song you like -any- and chances are it was written by Jim Steinman". I remember I named like 3; of course they were. He could debate you for days and was very firm in his convictions. At times it seemed he was the glue that held the group together and others the target of the practical jokes (I mean, he fancied Sandra Bullock, too!).

My husband and his friends knew him from years ago, almost a childhood friend; and yesterday they once more retold those "Roger stories" from what seems ages ago. At some point there was an empty chair and we all swore he was there. We just can't fathom the idea of him gone, just like that.

Roger was the first of Miguel's friends I met, before we even started dating; back in 1995. He was always the first to get hold of everyone when something had to be said or planned, he caught the garter at my wedding (Which we all found hillarious because it was him & Brenda who gave it to me for my "something blue"!), he always hosted the Superbowl (he had two different cable services to catch every single game) and would keep statistics of every single domino round the "tribe" played.

When our baby Gala was born, Miguel had gone out to grab a bite with my brother when Roger stopped by to visit. The hospital's pediatrician came by to introduce himself and congratulated the proud "father". We both laughed and he said "the Father" is out having dinner, I'm a family friend. The doctor kept going on and on telling us all about baby care and then gave Roger a hug and said "again, congratulations "Dad". We just laughed and laughed.

And so it goes, our friend is no longer here. There are not enough words or actions, just this absolute emptyness, this loss, this dark tunnel where the only light is the tiny glimpse of hope that we'll wake up and realize it was a bad dream, that our "family" is once again, complete.

{This post is for you: Loyal friend, son, brother, father, partner. You are now reunited with your best friend. Until we meet again, we miss you already}

{In the hope of eternal life, which God; who cannot lie, promised long ages ago... Tit 1:2}

{ We LoVe YoU DaD }

2008-10-14T10:30:00.002-05:00

Proud for Dad who got a recognition for his 5 years at UNID University. {Gala kept calling him during the ceremony to show him her Elmo balloon!}

Right before the ceremony...

2008-10-14T10:20:00.002-05:00

Dressed like her dolly, courtesy of Lala...

Dressed like her cheetah, who she looooves!
Where's Gala? {Honestly believes she can't be seen}

Here she is!

HaPpY 36 BiRtHdAy To Me!

2008-10-10T14:11:00.014-05:00

I am 36 today!!! I'm so excited I wore a 36 on my shirt. Not that there's anything special about the number, I just love the way this year went so it can only get better, I think. 36 is a great age to be when you don't look 36. No hang ups, just blessings.

Gala is as beautiful as ever, and a little chatterbox; so she finds little ways to amuse us every day. (When you ask her "what do italians say?" she yells: "mamma mia!").

At the risk of falling into a cliche, I'll post the main reasons it's great to be 36:

1.- I have a beautiful family of people and kitties who love me and put up with me and don't hold things against me.
2.- I have a church of which I am a link of, where I am used to help others, and where my daughter will grow up in, physically AND spiritually.
3.- I do what I love. I read to kids in the morning and noon, eat with my hubby in the afternoon, play with ma baby in the evening, kiss her good night, and then craft, craft, CRAFT! Life is sweet.
4.- My age is much bigger than my dress size, and that's always a good thing! ha ha ha
5.- I'm too old now for bikinis and miniskirts and that is a good thing because I wasn't planning on wearing any! ha ha ha

No Sanborns today, went yesterday. Yes, I had the exact same thing I had with my Nonna every year on 10/10. Today we're going somewhere where there's a slide!

I'm not big on gifts (I'm much more a giver than a reciever), but I'm amazed how well-thought this year's turned out: shoes & a gorgeous indian scarf, a silver charm. Classical music, chocolate, yummy smelling body lotion, a photo album, handmade candied pecans in a beautiful croc, and not only a great looking novel but TWO! "The Shadow of the Wind" both in english and spanish so Miguel and I will read it simultaneously. And then
there's a bonus: sizzix die cutters and a funky, colorful necklace from ma sweetie, who woke me up today by singing to me. Ti amo, Amore.
Like I said: Life is sweet.

2008-08-11T22:01:00.004-05:00

This is the story: Gala made a cheetah at the build-a-bear at Chicago's Navy Pier. Since grandma nicknamed her "snow white" ( she was born with pale skin and red lips) we go nuts whenever we see snow white merchandise (shop-aholics, oh yes) so when we saw the costume we just had to get it. So today she was at play and mom's camera just clicked away (sometimes I swear my daughter thinks the camera is an extension of my face!). She danced and "fed" the cheetah and carried her around 'till they were both exhausted. Ok, now on to the Summer pics like I promised. See you next month!

2008-08-10T22:01:00.024-05:00

The family having Chicago-style deep dish pizza at Giordano's. Yum! These are the pics from our summer trip, and do read the post at the end, it's short; I promise! Hope everyone had a great summer. I'm a little reluctant to let go (not that you should know, but I spent today with my daughter in her inflatable pool. Now that's denial, ha ha!)

2008-08-10T22:01:00.018-05:00

With mom at the lake.

2008-08-10T22:01:00.010-05:00

Bathing beauty.

2008-08-10T22:01:00.009-05:00

With cousin Amy, wearing "I love my auntie" onesies. (Leslie bought Gala's and I bought Amy's).

2008-08-10T22:01:00.007-05:00

Goofing around with Caleb outside the Red Lobster.

2008-08-10T22:01:00.005-05:00

Gala with Dad and baby Amy. They're wearing matching dresses!!!!

2008-08-10T22:01:00.003-05:00

My beautiful Gala Noel at the giant "jelly bean", Chicago. See below picture for size refference!

2008-08-10T22:01:00.001-05:00

Downtown Chicago, Millenium Park: At the Giant Jellybean. Isn't it cool????? There was even a bride and groom!

08/08/08 OlYmPiC sUmMeR

2008-08-08T11:48:00.004-05:00

The Olympics in Beijing started today. My Gala's first. Grandma got her the t-shirt which promises a nice scrapbook layout... We're back and can I just say:

What a great summer!!!
First off, I am glad to report Gala (and everyone else!) survived the plane ride. Everything was great (even though our plane did get delayed two hours... :( )
Summer in Wisconsin is the kind of summer I'm talking about. I know, not everyone's idea of what summer is about but it is to me. The whole family went, even my brother who caught us at O'Hare and rented a big car (and with today's gas prices, that's LOVE!); so that made it even more fun.

Many big milestones. Meeting baby Amalia who is just as cute as a button with goldspun ringlets and the bluest eyes ever. Caleb and Gala meeting for the second time (the first time he was two and she was a month old!) and playing together (for the most part). Gala meeting the sand and a lake for the very first time, in her leopard print bikini. Of course her first plane ride, her first visit to Chicago (MY kind of town), and... (drumroll please)... her first time eating lobster tail (Good luck trying to get her back to Gerber).

Of course she was spoiled silly by her grandma "Lala", specially at the Build-a-bear where she (in true family spirit) immediately chose the cheetah. Now I have two closets to keep. I mean, the cheetah has crocs.

Everything was sunny and beautiful and a wonderful experience down to the swing in the garden, mosquitoes and all; it exceeded our expectations. And then you pack the night before, and load the car and wave at the family you leave behind and wonder where the week went. And you feel all nostalgic and think it's a crime we only get to do this once every one or two years. But thank GOD almighty for these little encounters that lift our spirits so. Promise to post pics soon. I just wanted to post something on 08/08/08 to preserve the date. Gala is 17 months old today.
She is the reason my heart shines from the inside out. Love u my little pea!

This blog is dedicated to a lot of people. To my family (Both here, in L.A. and Dousman, Wisconsin), for playing such an important part not only in this trip but in my little one's life. That is so important to me. For Miguel, for being such an incredible dad. I see you play with her and I just melt. And I'm totally fine with her calling out for you 95% of the time. I love it.
For Rosa Elena and Mau and the Casais family. Our prayers and friendship are ever present. We love you dearly. Now let's ready for back-to-school!!!!

2008-06-07T00:03:00.001-05:00

These are the most recent pics. Now read the post below... thank u!
Estas son las fotos más recientes. Ahora lee el post de abajo... gracias!

No LoNgEr a BaBy... /Ya No Es BeBe...

2008-06-06T09:23:00.005-05:00

Gala is two days short of being 15 months old. What a blessing! She's amused us since day one, but every day she comes up with new surprises. She is very social and sweet, and a total Daddy's girl, she adores him.

These are the words she says so far, loud and clear:

Papa, Mama, hola, Lala (grandma), Galleta (cookie; her favorite), no, gracias (Thank you), más (more), si, zapato (shoe), pepino (cucumber, she loves them), agua, leche, Michou (one of our kitties). When you say one, two... she yells "three". When you ask her "¿Cómo amaneciste?" (How are you this morning?) she replies: "Guapa!" (Gorgeous!). (All humbleness aside).

She also waves hello (side to side with open palm), Bye bye (open palm, fingers up and down), blows kisses, sends kisses, plays peek-a-boo (When you ask "where's Gala?" she replies: "Aquí 'tá!" (here!), walks fast, jumps with both feet, climbs stairs, drinks from a sippy cup AND with a straw, claps, dances (she loooves Hi 5), and two days ago she said "abuelo" for the first time. We'll be working on some sign language next. She talks so much she's never given signing a chance!

She's still having her milk and now drinks lots of water and juice too. She's started to eat regular food more often; she loves fruit popscicles, cucumbers, cheese, papaya, apples, fish, soups and blueberries & cherry tomatoes; her current favorites. Her molars are in too, the bottom two.

I am so happy I started this blog journal when she was born, what a great way to document everything! She can actually read her development stories online!

Next month she will be taking her first plane ride; 4 hours to Chicago and then 2 and a half to Wisconsin, to meet cousin Amy. Your prayers are welcome and needed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This blog is dedicated to Gala's cousin; Natalia's baby sister, who is four months away from her debut into this world. And for the passengers of American Airlines flight 1596 to Chicago on July 20, please be understanding... : )

Gala está a dos días de cumplir los 15 meses, que bendición! Nos deleita con sus ocurrencias y cada día nos sorprende con cosas nuevas. Es muy sociable y dulce y tiene verdadera adoración por su papá.

Estas son las palabras que dice claramente hasta hoy:

Papa, Mama, hola, Lala (su abuela), Galleta (su favorita), no, gracias, más , si, zapato, pepino, agua, leche, Michou (uno de nuestros gatitos). Cuando cuentas en inglés: one, two... grita "three". Cuando preguntas, "¿Cómo amaneciste?" contesta: "Guapa!" (Modestia aparte).

También dice "hola" con la mano (de lado a lado), Bye bye ( Palma abierta, dedos de arriba a abajo), da besos, manda besos, juega escondidillas (Si preguntas "Dónde está Gala?" contesta: "Aquí 'tá!", camina rápido, brinca con ambos pies, sube las escaleras, bebe de un vaso Y con popote!, aplaude, baila (le encanta Hi 5), y hace dos días dijo "abuelo" por primera vez. Aún no habla en señas pero trabajaremos en eso pronto (es tan platicona que ni chance nos ha dado).

Todavía toma su leche y mucha agua y jugo. Ya come comida normal más seguido ; le encantan las paletas heladas de fruta, los pepinos, queso, papaya, manzanas, pescado, sopita de pasta y las blueberries y tomates cherry; sus dos alimentos favoritos. Ya también tiene sus dos muelas de abajo.

Me alegra haber empezado este diario/blog journal cuando nació, es excelente para acordarme de todo!

El próximo mes tendrá su primer viaje en avión, 4 horas a Chicago y luego dos y media en el Coach USA hasta Wisconsin a conocer a su prima Amy. Sus oraciones son bienvenidas y necesarias!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Este blog está dedicado a la prima de Gala; hermana de Natalia, quien está a cuatro meses de llegar a este mundo. Y a los pasajeros de American Airlines vuelo 1596 del 20 de Julio. Sean comprensivos... : )

2008-04-21T10:37:00.002-05:00

Gala ya tiene 13 meses y que alegría! Cada día es más graciosa y linda, le encanta la gente y ahora ya grita "hola!" a todo el que se encuentra. Ya aye dió sus primeros 3 pasitos sin ayuda y se subió a una resbaladilla solita por primera vez! Nuestra bebé está creciendo muy rápido, lo cual es un poquito triste; pero espero con emoción todo lo que está por venir. Mi chicharita... :)

2008-04-21T10:06:00.005-05:00

Gala is 13 months now, and what joy! She cruises around and took her first 3 steps yesterday. She now yells "hola" to everyone she meets and has eight teeth! Yesterday at church she went down the slide all by herself. Our little girl is growing up, which is bittersweet. I am, however looking foward to all the wonderful things just around the corner. My little pea... : )

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2008-02-28T08:42:00.003-06:00

JuSt OnE wEeK / SoLo UnA sEmAnA

2008-02-28T08:28:00.002-06:00

Gala is turning one in one week. A bit hard to believe, really. She's precious beyond words, and will probably start walking soon... She has seven teeth now, close to eight! We will cut a beehive cake our friend María Molina will make and take lots of pics. One week after that we're moving to a bigger house closer to our jobs and church. I can't wait to decorate my art studio, I'll post pics too! Here are some photos of Gala, enjoy!

Gala cumple su primer año la próxima semana. Difícil de creer. Es preciosa, más allá de las palabras, tal vez empiece a caminar pronto... Tiene siete dientes, casi ocho! Cortaremos un pastel en forma de panal que nuestra amiga María Molina va a hacer, y tomaremos muchas fotos. Una semana después nos vamos a mudar a una casa más grande cerca de nuestros trabajos y nuestra iglesia. Ya quiero decorar mi estudio, y subir fotos! Mientras aquí hay fotos de Gala, disfruten.

2008-01-18T13:47:00.000-06:00

Gala is ten months now! She's crawling fowards now, clapping, pointing, and still saying "papa" a lot. She has 5 teeth now! Two in the bottom, three on the top. She laughs a lot and shows different feelings now. This month she was jealous for the first time. That's why she's not smiling in the picture! Her cousin; Amalia Claire Waltz was born January 9. She'll meet her this summer. Congratulations Waltz family!
Gala ya tiene 10 meses! Gatea para adelante, aplaude, señala y dice "papa" mucho. Ya tiene 5 dientes: 3 arriba y dos abajo. Se rie mucho y enseña diferentes emociones. Este mes se puso celosa por primera vez. Por eso no esta sonriendo en la foto!
Su prima Amalia Claire Waltz nacio el 9 de Enero pasado. Se van a conocer en el verano. Felicidades a la familia Waltz!

Merry CHRISTmas, everyone!

2007-12-19T09:37:00.000-06:00

Gala Noel's very first Christmas is only days away and we can hardly believe it. She's grown so much! Every day she surprises us more and more. She's now saying "papa" on a regular basis (no mama yet...), waving bye bye and crawling (more backwards than foward). She's so smart and sweet, sometimes she spreads her arms open and when you want to pick her up she'll just hug you. She just rocks our world.

Just wanted to wish everyone the best, to our dear friends and family, both here and elsewhere around the world. We pray for you and love you dearly. I also want to invite you to enjoy the simple things. In this time when it seems it's all about shopping and presents, it's easy to get caught in marketing frenzy (haven't we been seeing Santas since September?). Put some pinecones in a bowl, a poinsettia in a pale corner, an orange and clove pomander where it's scent will capture you. (If you don't know how to make one, golly-gee! send me an email!).

And on a personal note, please do not sign "Happy Holidays" this year. Let's put the CHRIST back in Christmas. Love y'all!
Jenn + Miguel + baby Gala NOEL 2007

This blog is dedicated to everyone, but specially to auntie Les, Mildred, Pam, Cyn and Sanett; all great moms and moms to be. For our deaf friends. Nothing fills me like serving you. And for my niece who'll debut in this wonderful world in a matter of days!

La primera Navidad de Gala ya esta por llegar y apenas y podemos creerlo. Ha crecido tanto! Cada día nos sorprende más y más. Ya dice "papa" practicamente diario (no, mamá todavía no...), saluda con su manita y gatea (más hacia atrás que adelante). Es muy linda y dulce, a veces abre los brazos y cuando la vamos a cargar nos da un abrazo. Simplemente hace nuestro mundo girar.

Queremos desearles lo mejor a nuestros familiares y amigos aquí y en el resto del mundo. Oramos por ustedes y los queremos. También quiero invitarlos a disfrutar de las cosas más simples. En esta temporada es fácil caer en la mercadotecnia y pensar que es acerca de regalos y gastos (No parece que hemos visto Santa Clauses desde Septiembre?). Pon piñas y bellotas en un plato hondo, una nochebuena en una esquina vacía, una naranja con clavos de olor donde su perfume te invada (no sabes como hacer un pomander como este? escribeme!).

Y un favor personal. No firmes "felices fiestas" en tus cartas y tarjetas este año. Recordemos que Christmas viene de Christ, que es Cristo Jesús. Honor a quien honor merece! Los quiero!

Jenn + Miguel + Gala NOEL 2007

Este blog esta dedicado a todos; pero en especial a tía Les, Mildred, Pam Cyn y Sanett; quienes son y serán mamás excelentes. Para nuestros amigos sordos, nada me llena como servirles. Y para mi sobrina quien llegará a este maravilloso mundo en unos días.

2007-10-12T14:43:00.000-05:00

Gala Noel now sits by herself, "talks", laughs out loud, passes objects from one hand to another and grabs her bottle and takes it to her mouth (or nose!). What a cutie...

Gala Noel ya se sienta sola, "platica", se ríe en voz alta, pasa objetos de una mano a la otra y toma u biberon y lo lleva a la boca (o nariz!). Es una linda...

This blog is for Mildred and Pam, who both gave me a great birthday present: they're both expecting! And for aunt Leslie and Pili, birthday girls/ Este blog es para Mildred y Pam, quienes me anunciaron en mi cumpleaños que estan embarazadas! Y para tía Leslie y Pili, cumpleañeras.

2007-10-12T14:36:00.000-05:00

Gala is now 7 months old! /Gala ya tiene 7 meses! She's still calm and lovely and smiley; and she brights up rooms and hearts. Aun es tranquila y adorable y sonriente, ilumina lugares y corazones.

WhAt HaVe I dOnE tO dEsErVe ThIs? / QuE hIcE pArA mErEcEr EsTo?

2007-06-08T08:56:00.000-05:00

Gala Noel is three months old today. -Just like that. It seems yesterday she was kicking up a storm inside me, and now she's a whole other person. She is amazing beyond words. I know all mothers say this about their offspring, but let me tell you my reasons:

She can already hold her head by herself ( started at 2 1/2 months), she is already smiling, laughing, cooing, and..... (drumroll please)
SHE IS ALREADY SLEEPING THROUGH THE NIGHT!!! (started at 2 months). I feel the envy from parents everywhere.

Gala is an angel, someone who can go out in public and get compliments from everyone. (I'll enjoy it while it lasts, I'm perfectly aware that in a year or so I'll leave restaurants blushing and overtipping the cleaning staff)... She focuses on her toys, reacts to mom and dad's voice, and loves to hear stories. We had a perfect pregnancy, we have such a blessed baby... what did we do to deserve it? Happy 3 months, little one!

This blog is dedicated to all babies who sleep through the night, bless you all.

Gala Noel cumple 3 meses hoy, así de rápido. Parece qye ayer todavía me pateaba desde adentro y ahora es alguien muy distinta. Ella es increíble más allá de las palabras. Ya sé que todas las mamás dicen eso de sus crias, pero les voy a dar unas razones:

Gala ya sostiene su cabeza solita (empezó a los dos meses y medio), ya sonríe, se ríe, "platica" y... (redoble de tambor, porfavor)...
YA DUERME TODA LA NOCHE!!! (desde los dos meses). Siento la envidia de padres por doquier.

Gala es un angelito. Salimos en público y nos felicitan. Lo voy a disfrutar mucho, pues en un año saldré de los restaurantes con la cara roja y dejando muy buenas propinas a las personas que limpian las mesas.
Fija su mirada en sus juguetes, reacciona a la voz de sus papás, y le encanta oír historias. Tuvimos un embarazo perfecto, tenemos una niña tan bendecida... que hicimos para merecerlo? Felices 3 meses, pequeña!

Este blog está dedicado a todos los bebés que duermen de corrido, benditos sean.

UpDaTe On GaLa / TeAcHeR's DaY SoBrE gAlA / dIa DeL mAeStRo

2007-05-13T22:56:00.000-05:00

Gala turned 2 months old last week, pretty fast if you ask me! Needless to say, after the last documented fiasco I tried on anything that looked like it was "still big". Almost everything fit. Our baby girl is healthy and beautiful, she's 55 cms. long and weighs 4.660 kilos. Her arms and legs are very plump, her hair is getting much lighter now. She smiles very often and spends more time awake, staring at everything around her.

She still LOVES napping on top of her mom and dad, and being held. She can fall asleep while being held, sometimes in the weirdest positions; and stay there for hours. She is now sleeping through the night (yay!!!), eating at midnight and then at five or six in the morning.

Daycare is going great, her teachers love her, she is such an "easy" baby! I wish I could say she misses me a bit, perhaps later when she's more aware of he whole thing.

My first mother's day was a nice one, everyone at school was nice enough to congratulate me and I spent the day with my family. We've taken lots of pictures, I hope to post them soon. Today Gala wore her first dress, and may I say she looked divine.

Every day is a whole new experience, bonding. We bathe her, sing to her, read to her, talk to her. There are so many things I want to do with my daughter! Summer, please hurry.

This blog is dedicated to uncle René, who is moving to L.A. : ( ...
...and to teachers everywhere on their day. In my heart there has always been and forever will be a special place for teachers. I have worked in the fashion industry where I had the oppurtunity to travel; I've worked as a make up artist where I got to meet famous people and work for the biggest names in the business... ...but never have I been more fullfilled or genuinely happy than teaching. I have had the chance to teach preschool, elementary, middle and highschool; even a couple of Diploma courses in college. How could anyone want to be anything else? TEACHERS ROCK! And I should know: I married one!

Gala cumplió dos meses la semana pasada. Muy rápido! Sobra decir que después del último fiasco, le probé toda la ropita que según yo "todavía no le quedaba". Casi toda le quedó. Nuestra bebita está hermosa y sana. Mide ya 55 cms. y pesa 4.660 kilos. Sus brazos y piernas ya se ven muy llenitos y su cabello se está aclarando. Ya sonríe mucho y pasa más tiempo despierta, observando con detenimiento a su alrededor.

Le sigue gustando mucho dormir la siesta sobre su papá y mamá, y estar en brazos. Se puede dormir horas si está cargada, y a veces adopta las posiciones más raras. Ya duerme toda la noche, come a la media noche y después hasta las cinco ó seis!

La guardería va muy bien, sus misses la quieren mucho; es una bebé muy "fácil". Me gustaría pensar que me extraña, tal vez cuando esté más "despierta".

Mi primer día de las madres fué muy bonito, todos en la escuela tuvieron el detalle de felicitarme y pasé el día con mi familia. Hoy Gala usó un vestido por primera vez, y se veía divina.

Cada día es una nueva experiencia en que creamos un vínculo. La bañamos, le leemos, cantamos, platicamos. Hay tantas cosas que quiero hacer con mi hija! Verano, apúrate!

Este blog está dedicado al tío René, quien se muda a Los Angeles : (
y a todos los maestros en su día. En mi corazón siempre ha habido y habrá un lugar especial para los maestros. He trabajado en el mundo de la moda donde tuve la oportunidad de viajar, y he sido maquillista donde conocí a gente famosa y trabajé con las compañías más fuertes; pero en ningún trabajo he sido más llenada y genuinamente felíz que como maestra. He tenido la oportunidad de enseñar a preescolar, primaria, secundaria y preparatoria; inclusive un par de Diplomados en la universidad. Porqué querría alguien dedicarse a otra cosa? LOS MAESTROS SON LO MAXIMO! Y yo debería saberlo: me casé con uno!

Fotos

2007-04-24T22:05:00.001-05:00

Gala minutes after birth / Gala Minutos después de nacer

With Mom leaving the hospital / Con mamá al salir del hospital

One month old, looking like Dad! / Un mes de nacida, ¡Se parece a papá!

GaLa'S aRrIvAl & mY fIrSt CrIsIs/ La LlEgAdA De gAlA y mI pRiMeRa CrIsIs

2007-04-24T22:05:00.000-05:00

A lot has happened since the year started, the biggest news is Gala Noel is here! (Gala: an important event and Salvador Dali's wife. Noel: Christmas eve, the day my grandma left us)My! it went fast! She was born 22 days earlier; on March 8 by c-section at 9:55 pm.; everything went just as I wanted (I even got to wear my makeup, thanks to my very cool doctor) and we couldn't be happier. She is a blessing, doesn't cry a lot and lets us sleep a fair amount of time. I am sad, however; that time has suddenly flown so fast it's insane. I am just now sharing her arrival and not only she is 2 weeks short of being 2 months old, she's starting day care on Monday (I go back to work); and already I had my very first crisis earlier today, when I tried on the most beautiful pink velvet Jacadi onesie her Grandma had embroidered with her name; only to discover it doesn't fit anymore! I cried! She never wore it and it's all my fault! It seemed "so big" and my girl "so little"... ...or so I thought. And so my "newborn" is not a newborn anymore. God, help me cherish EVERY SECOND. Gotta go now. I have to take out the good soaps, use the fine china, wear the good perfume. Time flies, sadly... I framed the pretty thing, (perhaps for my own grandaughter?) even though my hubby joked now my living room looks like the Hard Rock cafe. If I could turn back time... or at least freeze it a little?
Needless to say, this blog is for Grandma; I'm sorry! And to Edgar Bojalil, M.D. Thank you for everything!

Mucho ha pasado desde que el año empezó. Lo más importante es que Gala Noel ya está aquí! (Gala: un evento importante y la esposa de Salvador Dalí. Noel: Navidad, el día que mi Nonna nos dejó) Nació 22 días antes de lo previsto el 8 de Marzo a las 9:55 pm. vía cesárea (todo sucedió tal como yo quería, hasta entré maquillada; mi doctor es muy cool!) y estamos muy contentos. Gala es una enorme bendición, no llora mucho y hasta nos deja dormir bien. Sin embargo, estoy triste de que el tiempo ha volado de una forma bizarra. Apenas les estoy compartiendo de su llegada y mi niña no sólo está a dos semanas de cumplir 2 meses, ya el lunes entra a la guardería (regreso a trabajar); y ya hoy tuve mi primera crisis cuando al probarle su trajecito precioso de terciopelo rosa Jacadi que su abuela le mandó bordar con su nombre descubrimos que no le quedó. Lloré. Nunca lo usó y es mi culpa. Parecía "tan grande" y mi niña "tan chiquita"... ...o eso creí. Mi "recién nacida" ya no es "recién nacida". Dios, permíteme disfrutar CADA SEGUNDO. Me voy; tengo que desenvolver los jabones buenos, la vajilla fina, el perfume costoso. El tiempo, tristemente vuela. Enmarqué el trajecito (tal vez para mi propia nieta?), aunque mi esposo dice que la sala parece el Hard Rock Café. Si pudiera regresar el tiempo... o sólo congelarlo un poquito?...

Este blog está obviamente dedicado a la abuela. Lo siento mucho! y al Dr. Edgar Bojalil: Gracias por todo!

If YoU aSk Me... / sI mE pReGuNtAs...

2007-01-23T08:33:00.000-06:00

Just when you think you know a person... it turns out all the people I know are all baby experts and never told me! All you have to do is tell someone you're pregnant and then heated debates ensue... ...about everything.
I have heard my share of advice: the good, the bad, the donwright wacky. Everyone is convinced "their way is the best way". And you know what? it probably is/was, 'till some new research says otherwise. People have an opinion on wether you breastfeed or not, and for how long. They have issues with me being a vegetarian, with me having cats "what are you going to do????" they ask. Uhh... love 'em? ("But-tt- what if your baby is born allergic to them? Ugh... - still love 'em?) Should you buy a cradle or a converter bed, have natural childbirth or a C-section? Know the baby's sex before and risk missing of the "few last surprises life has to offer"? Bring up the baby bilingual or not, use black and white or color shapes to decorate, use a pacifier or not and if so for how long? Do you dare go back to work and "choose a career over your family"?, HOMESCHOOL?????

When I was a baby I was put to sleep on my tummy, which is now a reason for Social services to knock on your door because of "sudden death syndrome". Car seats, peanuts, formula, talcum powder (very dangerous), ultrasounds (they can cause "damage"), almost any topic can cause a big controversy (When our grandmas were washing cloth diapers that required huge safety pins, and cured the baby's hiccups with a saliva-drenched red thread on the forehead*; honesly believing "their way was best"). * I'm sure that's a mexican old wive's tale not known in USA.

Before there were any laws on car seats, babies left the hospital pretty much swaddled in a basket in the moms lap or on the floor! So I say... try anything, but don't swear by everything. Listen politely, and bite your tongue if you have nothing to contribute. You don't know it all, and neither do I. Trial and error, I guess. Perhaps my boss said it best: the best advice is; don't pay TOO much attention to any advice. Many women had kids before all of the new comodities, and they did a fine job!

This blog is dedicated to the beautiful Gala Noel; who is as opinionated as her mom (I knew I'd pay someday); and a star kicker. Your family and kitties all love you and await your arrival in 66 days. And to grandma, who bought her rocking cradle.

Justo cuando piensas que conoces a alguien... ahora resulta que la gente que conozco todos son expertos en bebés y nadie me lo había dicho! Tan sólo tienes que decirle a alguien que estás embarazada y comienzan los debates acerca de todo. He recibido muchos consejos: los buenos, los malos, los ridículamente absurdos (conste que no los digo, para no ofender a nadie). Todos están convencidos de que "su método es el mejor"; y saben? Seguramente lo es/fué, hasta que un nuevo estudio prueba lo contrario. La gente opina acerca de si das pecho o no y por cuanto tiempo. Tienen un problema con mi vegetarianismo y con el hecho de que tengo 3 gatos "P-pero q-que vas a hacer? " Hmm... querelos mucho? ("P-pero, y si la bebé es alérgica?" hmm... querelos mucho de todas manaras?). Comprar cuna o la camita convertible? Parto natural ó cesárea? Saber el sexo del bebé y arriesgarte así a "perderte de las últimas pocas sorpresas que la vida tiene que ofrecer"? Que tu hijo crezca bilingüe o no, decorar a colores ó en blanco y negro, darle chupón o nó y si sí, por cuanto tiempo? Quedarte en casa ó regresar a trabajar (eligiendo una carrera antes que a tu familia...), enseñarlos en CASA???!!!

Cuando yo era bebé, me acostaban sobre el estómago, algo que ahora es motivo para que un trabajador social toque a tu puerta por arriesgar "muerte de cuna". Asientos para el carro, cacahuates, fórmula, talco (es muy dañino), ultrasonidos (pueden traer problemas)... casi cualquier palabra causa discusiones (Cuando nuestras abuelas lavaban pañales a mano, y los sujetaban con tamaños segurotes; y nos curaban el hipo con un hilo rojo ensalivado en la frente, creyendo que "su método era el mejor").

Antes de que la ley exigiera asientos de bebé, los niños salían del hospital envueltos y en una canasta en las piernas de mamá ó en el suelo del carro! Así que yo digo: intentalo todo, pero no asegures nada. Escucha con educación, y muérdete la lengua si no tienes nada que aportar. No lo sabes todo. Yo menos. Ensayo y error, supongo. Tal vez mi jefa lo dijo mejor cuando dijo "el mejor consejo es no hacer MUCHO caso de los consejos". Muchas mujeres tuvieron bebés sin las comodidades de hoy día, é hicieron un buen trabajo!

Este blog está dedicado a la hermosa Gala Noel, quien tiene muchas opiniones como su mamá (sabía que iba a pagar), y quien es pateadora estrella. Tu familia y gatos te quieren mucho y esperan tu llegada en 66 días. Y a la abuela que le regaló su cuna mecedora.

HaPpY BiRtHdAy To mE!!!

2006-10-12T14:30:00.000-05:00

Two days ago I celebrated my 34th birthday. I did so by having dinner at Sanborn's by myself (had the same thing I've ever had in Sanborn's for many years), waiting for my hubby to finish teaching 'till 8:30 at night, then crashed the bed ridiculously early. No cake, except for the one my coworkers were nice enough to get. No deep reflections on my life, not even special clothes. And that's just fine. A few months ago I thought about having a super party that would make Miguel's luau pale in comparison. I'm glad I didn't. This year's celebration was all about giving thanks to God for all the simple, amazing, everyday things in my life. I am truly blessed. I have a husband who loves me unconditionally (bless him for that!), a job that I'm passionate about, a ministry in my church that fills me in ways that I can't even describe, 3 cats to love, a home, friends, a healthy family... ...and I am also four months pregnant!!! (Miguel and I lost a baby in January of this year. It was an unexpected whirlwind). So when I thought about the planning, crafting, cooking, money and time to be spent in entertaining 50 plus people to celebrate one more year... and being that my Nonna died and will never ever take me to Sanborn's on my birthday like she always did (where she also had the exact same thing I did)...

I think Sanborn's with my 4 month baby, and then getting plenty of rest in a home I share with my loving husband and 3 cats; knowing I have a great job and having recieved text messages from my deaf friends who were sweet enough to remember... and hugs, tokens and phone calls from people who actually care enough not to just send an email... Thank you God, I wouldn't have it any other way!
This blog is dedicated to Pili and my sister, who are celebrating a Birthday today , to those who bother calling even if it's long distance, for those who aknowledge God's active participation, and for those who say their real age -proudly! Ps.- The blog that ends with "It's dedicated to someone who shall remain annonymous..." , well, not so annonymous anymore, it's the little pea; who will God willing arrive unto the world on March 30th.

Hace dos días celebré mi cumpleaños número 34. Lo hice cenando sola en un Sanborn's (cené lo mismo que he comido en Sanborn's desde siempre), esperando a que mi esposo saliera de dar clases hasta las 8:30 de la noche, luego me colapsé en mi cama ridiculamente temprano. Sin pastel (excepto por el que mis compañeras de trabajo amablemente me trajeron), sin profundas reflexiones acerca de mi vida, ni siquiera usé ropa especial. Hace unos meses planeaba hacer una fiesta que haría el luau de Miguel parecer nada en comparación. Me alegro de no haberlo hecho. La celebración de este año fué dar gracias a Dios por todas las cosas increíbles, sencillas y cotidianas que hay en mi vida. He sido muy bendecida. Tengo un esposo que me ama incondicionalmente (y gracias por ello!), un trabajo que me apasiona, un ministerio que me llena de formas indescriptibles, 3 gatos a quienes amar, un hogar, amigos, familia saludable... ... y cuatro meses de embarazo!!!
(Miguel y yo perdimos un bebé en Enero de este año, algo que fué un revés inesperado). De modo que al pensar en planear, hacer manualidades, cocinar, gastar y el tiempo a invertir en entretener a 50 o más personas para celebrar un año más... ...y siendo que mi Nonna murió, y nunca más me va a llevar al Sanborn's en mi cumpleaños como siempre lo hizo (y donde siempre comió lo mismo que yo)...

Yo creo que cenar en Sanborn's con mi hijo (a), y luego descansar mucho en el hogar que comparto con mi querido esposo y 3 gatos, sabiendo que tengo un trabajo que me encanta, recibiendo mensajes de texto de mis amigos sordos que amablemente se acordaron... y abrazos, detalles y llamadas de los que se acordaron y no se conformaron con solo un mail... Gracias Dios, no lo hubiera preferido de ninguna otra manera!
Este blog está dedidacdo a Pily y Leslie, mi hermana; quienes están festejando cumpleaños hoy, a los que llaman aunque sea larga distancia, a los que reconocen la participación de Dios en todo, y a los que dicen su verdadera edad -con orgullo! Pd.- El blog que termina diciendo "Está dedicado a alguien que permanecerá anónimo..." ; bueno pues ya no es anónimo, es el chicharito que llegará al mundo Dios mediante el 30 de Marzo

HuG An aNiMaL! / AbRaZa A uN aNiMaL!

2006-09-26T10:18:00.000-05:00

Personally I would always mock bird watchers because I used to think they had "nothing to do". I would find it hilarious that people would dress up in khakis and grab a pair of binoculars and observe them for hours. That was then... now in the quiet of my library, where I have peace, a rocking chair and classical music playing all day long, I am thrilled when birds come to my window and I find myself mesmerized with their beauty and at times, their song.

It is no surprise I have always felt "in tune" with animals. Cats and camels, specially; but whenever we've been to the zoo (still a treat for me, at almost 34 years old) I feel such a strong connection and many times I've asked Miguel "who's wacthing who?".

That's why I'm even prouder of being a vegetarian. I don't scold those who eat meat, but personally, when it's up to me; I'll choose compassion over killing anytime. Sometimes smarty pants give me that whole "In the Bible it says that God gave us animals to eat them", which justifies their need for a burger. Not me. It's a strictly personal choice for me (my husband likes his meat, so there!), like not wearing leather or fur (what am I, a caveman?).

Victor Hugo used to say "Until one has loved an animal, a part of oneself remains unawakened". Until you've felt the devotion in a cat's eyes, the loyalty of a dog to his owner and the inmense power of hugging a camel (I have, twice! ) you have "half lived" in my eyes.

This blog is dedicated to everyone who loves their pet, meat eater or not.

Yo solía burlarme de los observadores de pájaros. Pensaba que eran "gente sin quehacer". Se me hacía muy curioso que alguien se vistiera de khaki y tomara binoculares y observara pájaros por horas. Eso era antes... ahora, desde la paz y quietud de la biblioteca, donde está mi mecedora y tengo música clásica todo el día; me encuentro fascinada con la casual visita de pájaros; con su hermoso plumaje y a veces, su canto.

No es sorpresa que siempre me he sentido "afín" con los animales. Con los gatos y camellos, principalmente; pero cuando voy al zoológico (sigue siendo un premio para mí, a mis casi 34 años) siento una conección muy fuerte con ellos. Más de una ocasión le he preguntado a mi esposo: "Quién observa a quién?"

Por eso estoy todavía más orgullosa de ser vegetariana. No regaño a los que comen carne, pero personalmente; mientras dependa de mí, elijo la compasión antes de la muerte a un animal. A veces los que se creen muy listos me salen con eso de que "La biblia dice que Dios nos dió a los animales para comer", lo que los hace justificar su antojo ó necesidad de una hamburguesa. Yo no. Es una elección estrictamente personal para mí (Mi esposo come carne, asi que...), como el no usar pieles (que soy, cavernícola?).

Victor Hugo solía decir que "Hasta que alguien ha amado un animal, una parte de su alma permanece dormida". Si no has sentido la devoción en los ojos de un gato, la lealtad de un perro, la imponente fuerza de abrazar a un camello (ya lo experimenté dos veces!); para mí sólo has "medio vivido".

Este blog está dedicado a todos los que aman a su mascota, coman carne o no.

To SpAnK oR nOT tO sPaNk? / NaLgUeaR a Tu HiJo O nO?

2006-08-30T10:02:00.000-05:00

Few topics can cause a big stir like this one. Before these politically correct, child abuse hotline times parents would spank. The quickest way to put an end to a dissrespectful child was a smack across the face. I was spanked. With palm, belt and few times, with whatever was available. Mind you, I don't think I was a bad kid, I was mostly corrected for bitting my younger sister ( For some reason I thought she had chewable arms) and not eating. Now, truth be told; calling me a picky eater would be putting it gently. I won't go into details, but it was pretty bad.
Our parents raised me and my brother and sister to always say hello, please and thankyou. "Don't touch ANYTHING" we were instructed before going in a store, and you bet your life none of us did. "Don't ask for anything at someone else's house, not even water". And we didn't. My husband was raised the same way. Sometimes we kinda laugh and cringe at how strict things were. But things worked, at least; most of the time.

Last night I was forced to watch a nasty show in a restaurant where a young mom left grandma to care for her 3 year old girl and what seemed a 3-4 month old boy while she ran errands. I was appalled at the way the girl hit, yelled and insulted her grandma. She threw a ceramic plate and broke it, hollered like the place was on fire, hit her grandma and baby brother because of a tantrum. This went on for the whole meal. She ran away from the place "looking for mommy". And there went grandma running to her, leaving the baby unattended for a good 5 minutes. Everyone was uncomfortable, yet grandma just took all the abuse this 3 year old gave her. When her mother came and grandma told her what had happened; young mom said: "Nattie, is that true? Hmmm... common, eat your hotdog now my baby". They left five minutes later, with the girl still hollering and actually sliding on the floor, dragged by mom's hand. Some people clapped.
I think Nattie could use a spanking, and that makes me a bad person to some. But I would have never DARED to pull any of that off at her age; and I turned out ok. I think. This blog is dedicated to any mom who has lovingly but assertively corrected her kid. And to Alex, who half-joking told me he's too busy to read my Blog.

Pocos temas causan tanta controversia como este. Antes de estos tiempos políticamente correctos y donde todo parece abuso infantil, los padres nalgueaban a sus hijos. La manera más rápida de acabar con un chamaco irrespetuoso era una bofetada en la boca. A mi me pegaron de chica; con la mano, el cinturón, y pocas veces lo que hubiera a la mano. Yo creo que no fuí tan mala, la mayor parte del tiempo me pegaban por morder a mi hermana menor (por alguna razón yo creía que sus brazos eran masticables) y por no querer comer. Ahora, para ser honestos, llamarme una niña melindrosa hubiera sido hacerme un favor. Yo no comía NADA. No entraré en detalles, pero era feo. Nuestros padres nos criaron a mi hermana, mi hermano y a mí a decir hola, porfavor y gracias SIEMPRE. "No toquen NADA" nos decían antes de entrar a una tienda, y lo cumplíamos. "No pidan NADA en casa ajena, ni agua" y lo hacíamos. A mi esposo lo educaron de la misma manera. A veces nos reímos y temblamos de lo estricto que podía ser; pero la verdad es que funcionaba, la mayoría de las veces.

Anoche me ví obligada a prescenciar un horrendo show en Sanborn's, donde una mamá joven dejó a la abuela a cargo de su hija de 3 años y un bebé como de 3-4 meses en lo que hacía unas compras. Me quedé perpleja de ver como la niñita golpeaba, gritaba é insultaba a su abuelita. Rompió un plato de cerámica, gritaba como si se quemara, golpeaba a su abuela y al hermanito bebé por un berrinche. Y así fué toda la cena. Salía corriendo del lugar buscando a "mamita", obligando a la abuela a salir tras ella, dejando al bebé desatendido por unos 5 minutos. Todos los clientes estábamos incómodos, pero la abuela se dejaba maltratar por esta criatura de 3 años!
Cuando la mamá volvió y la abuela le contó lo sucedido, dijo "Natty, es eso cierto? hmm... cómete tu hotdog bebé". Se fueron a los cinco minutos, la niña seguía berreando y era arrastrada por el suelo. Algunos aplaudieron.
Yo creo que a Natty le hacen falta dos buenas nalgadas, y eso me hace una mala persona a los ojos de algunos. Pero yo jamás me hubiera ATREVIDO a hacer ese teatrito, y salí bien. Eso creo.
Este blog esta dedicado a cualquier mamá que con amor pero certeza haya corregido a su chamaco/a. Y a Alex, que medio en broma me dijo que está demasiado ocupado para leer mi blog.

LiEs We TeLl oUrSeLvEs... / MenTiRaS qUe NoS cOnTaMoS...

2006-08-23T09:05:00.000-05:00

We all know someone who seems totally clueless to what we figure is common sense. Someone who will call after 10:00 p.m. not realizing we're probably asleep or preparing for bed, someone who jumps into the conversation without letting you speak, not even asking if it's a good time. I'm quite tired of it. We know such a person, and it's so daunting we've found ourselves letting the machine pick up just to avoid 2 hours of conversation (I know what you're thinking: "Why don't you just cut him/her off?". U-huh, just try). And yet we don't want to hurt them, so we say things like "No, I wasn't sleeping, tell me what's up"; "No, I'm not having dinner with my family", "No, I'm not enjoying my "me" time with a magazine/ studying for an exam/ bathing the dog". We make up excuses not to hurt them when in reality, they should learn to respect other's time.
Recently however I discovered of all lies we tell ourselves, the worst has got to be "I'm just too busy". Too busy to call when email is the fastest option, too busy to write a thankyou note, too busy to give requested feedback, too busy to read!!! I have a full time job, full involvement in my church's deaf ministry (not just on sundays, mind you), illustrations to hand in to a magazine, while finding time to clean up around the house, cook, do laundry, iron tomorrow's clothes, talk to my husband, play with my cats, attend monthly origami meetings and craft. I never leave my house without makeup and perfume (not just because my hubby deserves me looking good, but for my self love!) and yet I'm never "just too busy". Some say "that'll change when you're a mom". I say, phootooey! You make your time for the things and people you CARE ABOUT. period. Think of a big CEO of a major company and chances are he makes sure he gets a little time off. GOD is the only one who we could say is; in fact TOO BUSY, and yet He's never too busy for us. Prioritize, and invest a little time on who you care for, and don't use others as an excuse. If we are asleep, let's start saying so; maybe that person will learn.

Todos conocemos a alguien que parece no tener idea de lo que para nosotros es cosa de sentido común. Alguien que llama después de las 10:00 pm, no pensando que probablememnte ya estaremos dormidos ó preparándonos para ello; y que empieza una conversación ininterrumpida sin pensar que quizás estamos cenando ó en otra cosa. Estoy cansada de esto. Nosotros conocemos a alguien que hace esto y es tan pesado que dejamos que la contestadora suene, para no lidiar con dos horas de eso (Sé lo que estás pensando: "Porqué no decirle que no puedes hablar en ese momento?" Ajá, inténtalo y verás). Y sin embargo, para no ofenderlos decimos cosas como "No, no estaba dormida, dime", "No, no estamos cenando", "No, no estoy disfrutando de un rato libre con mi revista favorita/ estudiando para un examen / bañando al perro". Inventamos excusas para no ofenderlos cuando en realidad deberían tener más respeto. Sin embargo he descubierto que de las mentiras que nos decimos la peor es "estoy muy ocupado". Estamos "demasiado ocupados" para llamar cuando el mail es ovbiamente más rápido y fácil, para escribir una trarjeta de agradecimiento, para comentar nuestra opinión en algo que nos solicitaron, para leer un texto!!! Yo tengo un trabajo de tiempo completo, trabajo en el ministerio de sordos de mi iglesia (no sólo los domingos, por cierto), hago las ilustraciones para la revista, encuentro tiempo para ordenar la casa un poco, cocinar, poner una carga de ropa, planchar mi ropa del día de mañana, platicar con mi esposo, jugar con mis gatos, asistir a las reuniones mensuales de origami y hacer mis manualidades. No salgo de mi casa sin maquillaje ni perfume, no solo porque mi esposo merece que me vea bien siempre, sino por amor propio para no caer en el abandono; y sin embargo nunca estoy "demasiado ocupada". Algunos cínicos dicen con una sonrisa que esto cambiará cuando sea mamá, yo digo: Ja, ja, ja. Tú haces el tiempo para las cosas y gente QUE DE VERDAD TE IMPORTAN. Punto.Piensa en el director de una mega empresa, y te aseguro que se busca ALGO de tiempo libre. DIOS es el único que podría estar "demasiado ocupado", pero nunca lo está para nosotros. Elige tus prioridades, invierte unos minutos en quien te importa, y no hagas de otros el pretexto. Si estamos dormidos, digámoslo y tal vez esa persona aprenda.

MaRy PoPpInS, wHeRe R u? / MaRy PoPiNs, DoNdE eStAs?

2006-07-26T13:17:00.000-05:00

Last night we had friends over for dinner to say goodbye to a couple who's moving to Can Cun. They are truly amazing: she can throw anything away without guilt or remorse. Their house is always spick and span, not a thing out of place (and they do have a daughter, mind you). He was telling us how they're packing and she says, in all seriousness: "pick 15 books, 'cause that's all you're taking". To which my dear hubby replied "what, to like a desert island?". The truth is, even though I admire that kind of "unattachment to stuff", I could never do it. See, I'm a packrat. Not a compulsive hoarder like you'd watch in Oprah, who can't throw away a pizza box from 1982, but I do like to have my stuff close to me. I still keep my trapper keeper binder from the eighties with it's original folders, papers I turned in in middle school, a restaurant menu from the Olive Garden where we had dinner on my sweet 15 (I'm mexican, remember?). I know it must stop, I know memories stay inside, not in things, but a part of me just can't seem to part with my pocket simon says and Rubik cube. My hubby is exactly the same, I just found his old agenda from 1991. I could totally understand why he's kept it. What can I say, we are visual learners. One day I'll bring myself to be free of junk, but in the meantime, my inspiration and "genius" comes from my environment, my memories, my life long collections. Until Mary Poppins cleans up... :) This blog goes to Cyn; who actually bookmarked this page, has 2 cats, and is one of the strongest best friends I've never met; and to Fer, who I hope was able to take all his books.

Anoche tuvimos una cena para despedir a unos amigos que se van a vivir a Can Cun. Son algo increíble: ella puede tirar cualquier cosa a la basura sin culpa ni remordimiento. Su casa siempre está impecable, nada fuera de lugar (y tienen una hija). Él nos platicaba que estaban empacando y ella le dijo, seria: "elige 15 libros, porque es todo lo que te vas a llevar" ; a lo que mi querido esposo respondió: "Van a una isla desierta?". La verdad es que admiro esa clase de "desprendimiento a lo material"; yo no podría. Porqué? porque yo guardo todo. No una guardadora compulsiva como las que se ven en Oprah que no pueden tirar un cartón de pizza de 1982; pero me gusta tener mis cosas cerca. Aún tengo mi carpeta trapper keeper de los ochentas con sus folders originales, trabajos que hice en secundaria, un menú del restaurante Olive Garden donde celebré mi cena de quince años. Sé que es demasiado, que los recuerdos se quedan dentro de uno, no en las cosas, pero no puedo nada más tirar mi Simón dice de bolsillo ó mi cubo rubik. Mi esposo es igual, antier me encontré con su agenda de 1991 y entiendo perfecto porqué la conservó. ¿Qué puedo decir?, somos visuales.
Un día seré libre de cachivaches, pero mientras; mi inspiración y "genio" vienen de lo que me rodea, mis recuerdos, mis colecciones de años. Hasta que Mary Poppins venga a limpiar... :) Este blog va para Cyn, quien puso esta página dentro de sus favoritas, tiene 2 gatos, y es una de las mujeres más fuertes y amigas aunque nunca la he visto en persona... Y para Fer, quien espero se haya podido llevar todos sus libros.

YoU'rE cHaRgiNg Me FoR wHaT? / ¿Me EsTàS cObRaNdO qUè?

2006-07-22T12:16:00.000-05:00

Yesterday afternoon we were going home and passed by a tortillería, which oddly enough is a place where they sell freshly made tortillas by the half kilo and the kilo. These are great and in Mexico it's very common to find long lines of people waiting for their share. Well, as we passed by I saw a sign that read "Paper 50 cents". I asked my hubby was that was about and he said "They charge you 50 cents for the butcher paper where they wrap the tortillas, which is why many women carry a cloth or "tortilla rag" to put them in. I was speechless. I never realized they did that, and I have bought them many times! It's not that they don't have the right to do it, but it got me wondering about other ways others can abuse the privilege. For example, restaurants charging for aluminum foil and styrofoam when you request for a "doggie bag" (pay extra if you want your table scraps to resemble a swan). Hospitals add tissues, thermometer, cotton balls and such to the bill when you leave, though most people leave them behind. I'm sure hotels sneak in toilettries and other amenities into the bill as well, so they could spare twice the conditioner! Some Chinese take outs are always charging for the containers, so it won't be long 'till others catch on and charge you if you want extra napkins and ketchup (Europe has done it for the longest time, I had to pay extra for lime wedges and ice in Germany and France when; violating all health rules, the traditional "fish and chips" in Irland and England are served in a newspaper cone with lots of lime juice).
Which is why it upsets me when in Mexico they try to charge extra for sour cream on my baked potato, or worse, avocado; which is delicious and cheap this side of the globe. The bottom line, enjoy everything you eat and drink, before you pay twice for the cup it's in. This blog is dedicated to anyone who actually gave their "doggy bag" to the dog.

Ayer por la tarde de regreso a casa pasamos por una tortillería y ví un letrero que me llamó la atención: "Papel 50 centavos". Le pregunté a mi esposo de qué se trataba eso y me dijo "Cobran 50 centavos por el papel en el que te envuelven las tortillas, por eso muchas mujeres llevan un tortillero ó trapo". Me quedé muda. ¡No sabía que lo hacían y he comprado muchas veces! No es que no tengan derecho de hacerlo, pero me quedé pensando en otras formas en que podría abusarse ese privilegio. Por ejemplo, los restaurantes podrían cobrar por el plato de unicel y el papel aluminio cuando pedimos algo "para llevar" (pagas extra si tus sobras van en forma de cisne). Los hospitales te cobran los pañuelos desechables, el termómetro y hatsa el algodón cuando sales, pero pocos lo llevan consigo. Estoy segura que al hacer tu checkout en el hotel también van incluídos en la cuenta los amenities como jaboncitos y botellas minúsculas, así que ¿No podrían poner el doble de acondicionador? Algunos restaurantes chinos cobran los envases donde sirven la comida para llevar, así que no pasará mucho tiempo antes de que otros sean parte de la moda y cobren extra por servilletas y catsup (en Europa empezaron hace mucho, yo pagé extra por hielos y limones en Alemania y Francia cuando el auténtico "pescado frito y papitas" en Irlanda é Inglaterra viola muchas reglas de higiene al servirse en cucuruchos de periódico con muuuuchos limones). Por eso me molesta que en México traten de cobrarme extra por la crema ácida en mi papa al horno ó peor aún, por la "orden de aguacate" que es abundante y muy barato de este lado del globo terráqueo (y los meseros te dicen, serios "¿Una orden de crema?, enseguida señora" ¡Que insulto!). De modo que disfruta lo que te estás comiendo ó bebiendo, antes de que te cobren la envoltura que lleva. Este blog está dedicado a todo aquel que de verdad le haya dado a su perro lo que pidió "para llevar".

2006-07-20T22:31:00.000-05:00

What a party that was! Miguel's birthday Luau had everything you could ask for, including palm trees, totems, ukeleles and parasoled smoothies.
We had hawaiian music and even showed a hawaiian "film"! Everyone had fun, now we're thinking what we'll do for my party! We both love to entertain and cook for our friends.
This blog is dedicated to someone very special, who shall remain nameless.

Vaya fiesta! El luau por el cumpleaños de Miguel tenía todo lo básico, incluyendo palmeras, totems, ukeleles, y sombrillas en los smoothies. Pusimos música hawaiiana y hasta proyestamos una "película" con el tema. Todos se divirtieron tanto, que ahora nos preguntamos que haremos para mi fiesta. A los dos nos encanta recibir invitados y cocinar para nuestros amigos. Este blog está dedicado a alguien muy especial, que permanecerá anónimo.

2006-07-20T22:11:00.000-05:00

Yes: That is a real iguana on my head, courtesy of my friend Rosa Elena, who is also my hero for being mom of triplets, (and loving wife to Mau, 'cause it takes two to Tango). The occasion was Miguel's 37th birthday, where we transformed the café into a LUAU paradise. I'm wearing a nametag with both my name and its hawaiian translation, as did all our guests. I made paper flower leis for everyone, including Greak, the only iguana to have crowned my head...

Si, es una iguana de verdad sobre mi cabeza; cortesía de mi amiga Rosa Elena, quien es también my heroína por ser valiente mamá de trillizos (y querida esposa de Mau, se necesitan dos para bailar Tango). La ocasión fué el cumpleaños 37 de Miguel, donde transformamos el café en un paraíso de LUAU hawaiiano. Llevo puesto un gafete con mi nombre y su traducción al hawaiiano, que hicimos para todos los invitados; y un lei de flores de papel, que también hice para todos, incluyendo a Greak, la única iguana que se me ha acercado tanto...

ReQuIeM fOr An EnVeLoPe / ReQuIeM pOr Un SoBrE

2006-07-20T09:20:00.000-05:00

Today's blog has to do with something I was discussing with some friends last saturday. I was sorta complaining that now, in the era of email, chats, and yes; even blogs like this people don't write letters anymore. I was saying how before Miguel and I married, the first year we were together (in 1996!) I sent him a telegram every month. I loved it! First of all, you have to pick your words carefully, 'cause you only get ten. Second, it's cheap, very cheap (I sent some to my sister back when she was in Illinois) and third, since telegrams have always been used to deliver bad news (or to ask for money, as I once heard) I thought it would be a nice gesture to recieve some cheer.

The same with letters. Now, I'll admit I'm terrible at snail mail; but when I do, I'm so excited to find out when it arrived! I am very excited when we get any mail that's not bills or junk, mostly from our friend Luis in Michigan and the Waltzes.

I once met a magician in Chicago who wanted to see my illustrations, so I snail mailed him a magazine and welll... all he got was the envelope. Bet someone else liked it too!

One thing I like is when a couple writes a letter or card and the guy actually writes a couple lines instead of the woman doing everything and then leaving a space at the bottom for him to sign. What's up with that? Does it mean "well, I feel the same way too, but now she's written it so why bother?". I must confess, we've done it too.

My friends with whom I was having this discussion the other day are probably like that. She said she's grateful NOT to recieve any mail, because it would be "one more thing to throw away". (And now I'm a little relieved I haven't sent her any!).

I will probably still write letters and cards, I have three, yes; three boxes full of stationery yet, and I pride myself in being a thankyou note queen.

Today's blog is dedicated to my sister Leslie, who is great at snail mail, and to Luis, Ginni, Pam and Alex, who have also written our way.

El blog the hoy tiene que ver con algo que discutía con unos amigos el sábado pasado. Me quejaba de que en esta era del mail, chat y sí, hasta del blog; la gente ya no escribe cartas. Les comentaba como cuando Miguel y yo eramos novios, el primer año (1996!) le envié un telegrama cada mes. Esto del telegrama es padre porque primero, tienes que elegir bien tus palabras, pues sólo tienes 10. Segundo, es muuuuy económico (a veces envié unos a mi hermana cuando vivía en Illinois) y tercero, los telegramas siempre se han usado para dar malas noticias (o para pedir dinero, como alguna vez ecuché); de modo que debe ser agradable recibir un poco de ánimo de esta manera.

Lo mismo con las cartas. Ahora, yo reconozco que soy malísima en esto, pero me encanta llegar y ver un sobre a mi nombre que no sean estados de cuenta por pagar y promociones inútiles; por lo general de nuestro amigo Luis en Michigan y los Waltzes.

Una vez conocí a un mago en Chicago que quería ver algo de mis ilustraciones, así que le envié la revista por correo y pues... recibió el sobre vacío. Supongo que a alguien le gustó más.

Otra cosa que me gusta es cuando una pareja manda una carta ó tarjeta y él dedica un par de líneas, en vez de que ella escriba todo y deje un espacio en blanco al final para que él firme su nombre. ¿Qué es esto? Es como diciendo, "yo siento lo mismo que ella pero ella ya lo escribió, así que ya no me molesto"... tristemente confieso que nosotros lo hemos hecho.

Los amigos con quienes discutía esto probablemente lo hacen también. Ella dijo que personalmente agradecía el que no le enviaran cartas, pues sería "una cosa más que tirar a la basura". Y que bueno que no lo he hecho!

Probablemente escribiré cartas por mucho tiempo más, aún tengo tres, sí, tres cajas de papel y sobres decorados. Y me enorgullezco de ser buena en tarjetas de agradecimiento.

El blog de hoy esta dedicado a mi hermana Leslie, que es muy buena en esto del correo aéreo, y a Luis, Ginni, Pam y Alex; quienes también nos han enviado cartas.

THiNgS I'm ReALLy iNtO nOw / CoSaS qUe Me aTRaEn AhOra

2006-07-16T13:44:00.000-05:00

There are things that have interested me all my life, and some I just discovered and I'm totally adicted to.

Board Games: Specially Mancala, Sequence, and Settler's of Catan

Magic Tricks: Some I've learned on my own, some a magician friend taught me, mostly I like to watch others perform.

Sign Language: that was at the top of my "things to do before I die" list; I started taking classes two years ago, and now I'm an interpreter!

Sudoku: I carry a book and pencil with me at all times

Anagrams: it gets my brain going. An anagram is when you rearrange letters in a word to form another one. Example: Librarian = Brain Lair

Scrapbooking: I started about 3 years ago and I'm totally hooked.

Altered art: it's when you take an ordinary object and decorate it to totally transform it into something else.If you ever made a bag out of a pair of old jeans, you have made altered art! Lately I've worked with Altoid tins, paper bags, and match boxes. Next? Clothes!

Hay cosas que siempre me han interesado, otras que he descubierto recientemente y a las que me he vuelto adicta.

Juegos de Mesa: Especialmente Mancala, Sequence, y Settler's of Catan

Trucos de Magia: Algunos que he aprendido, que un amigo mago me enseñó, pero sobre todo me gusta ver a otros hacerlo.

Lenguaje de Señas: Eso era una de las cosas que encabezaban mi lista de "cosas que hacer antes de morir". Empecé a tomar clases hace dos años y ahora soy intérprete traductor!

Sudoku: Llevo un libro y lápiz conmigo todo el tiempo.

Anagramas: Gimnasia cerebral. Un anagrama es reacomodar las letras de una palabra ó frase para formar otra (s): Berenjena a la Parmesana con sal y... = Jenn espera más arena blanca y olas...

Scrapbooking: Literalmente, "libro de recortes". Empecé a hacer este tipo de álbumes hace 3 años y estoy muy metida en esto.

Altered art: Literalmente, "arte alterado". Es tomar un objeto y decorarlo para transformarlo en algo a lo que se le da otro uso. Si alguna vez hiciste una bolsa de tus jeans viejos, felicidades: ya has hecho "altered art". Recientemente he trabajado con latas de Altoids (mentas), bolsas de papel de estraza y cajitas de cerillos. ¿Mi siguiente intento? ropa.

So WhAt dO YoU dO? / BuEnO, ¿a QuE tE dEdiCaS?

2006-07-16T13:11:00.000-05:00

(= ^-^ =) I currently work as a librarian in the lower library at Sierra Nevada school in México City. On sundays, I also work as a sign language interpreter for the deaf ministry in my church, the First Baptist Church of Ciudad Satélite (PIB). The rest of the time I craft, illustrate, cook, and hang out at the Film Club Café; a cool mini movie theater/ video rental store / café where Miguel; my husband, works. I am also an illustrator. I have professionally illustrated since 1997 for magazines and different companies, and I am currently working on setting up my web page and a children's book. I have also done make up professionally for clients like MTV, Playboy underwear, Sony Entertainment Television, Editorial Televisa and I have done both makeup and body paint art for events from Urban Decay cosmetics.I took a course with make up artist James Anda from London's Delamar academy of make up, specializing in close up, vintage (20's-00's), runway and bridal. I am 33 years old, a vegetarian, camel /noah's ark collector and roomate to 3 beautiful cats: Mr. Michou, Juliette, and Madison.

(= ^-^ =) Actualmente trabajo como bibliotecaria en el área de Primaria y Preescolar en Escuela Sierra Nevada en el Estado de México. Los domingos soy intérprete de lenguaje de señas del ministerio de sordos en mi iglesia, Primera Iglesia Bautista de Ciudad Satélite (PIB). El resto del tiempo produzco material hecho a mano, ilustro, cocino, y paso tiempo en el Film Club Café; un mini cine/video club/café muy padre donde trabaja Miguel, mi esposo. También soy ilustradora. He ilustrado profesionalmente desde 1997 para revistas y compañías; y estoy trabajando en mi página web y un libro para niños. También he maquillado profesionalmente para clientes como MTV, Playboy underwear, Sony Entertainment Television, Editorial Televisa y body paint/ maquillaje para eventos de Urban Decay Cosmetics. Tomé un taller con el maquillista James Anda de la Academia Delamar de Londres, especializado en close up, de época (20's-00's) pasarela y nupcial. Tengo 33 años, soy vegetariana, coleccionista de camellos y arcas de Noé, y comparto mi casa con 3 hermosos gatos: Mr. Michou, Juliette, y Madison.

WeLcOmE to mY bLoG! / ¡Bienvenido a mi blog!

2006-07-16T12:53:00.000-05:00

I'm Jenn, I am an artist. I have drawn, painted and crafted pretty much all my life. After being encouraged by my husband, I have created this blog. In it you will find lots of interesting (or at least I'd like to think so) facts, tips, books I recommend, even recipes as well as some of my work. If you know me, you know there's always something cooking in my head, so this is a good way to share it with someone else for a change. It is also a good way to stay in touch with friends and family, we have friends in New York, Texas, Minneapolis, Spain, Malaysia, Russia, even South Africa! Many former students I love went back to their countries or to study somewhere else (Mostly Korea, Japan and Brazil). Some of my hubby's family lives in Guadalajara, and I have family in Can Cun, Spain and Wisconsin. So this is a great way to stay "connected". This first blog has a special dedication to my dear Nonna and to Caleb James (C.J.), my nephew.

Soy Jenn, soy ilustradora. He dibujado, pintado y creado arte a mano prácticamente toda mi vida. Por sugerencia de mi esposo he creado este blog. En el encontrarás curiosidades interesantes (bueno, a mi me gustaría creer que lo son), consejos, libros que recomiendo, hasta una que otra receta y algo de mi trabajo. Si me conoces, sabes que siempre hay algo cocinándose en mi cabeza, así que esta es una buena forma de compartirlo con alguien más para variar. También es una buena forma de manternerse en contacto con familia y amigos; tenemos amigos en Nueva York, Texas, Minneapolis, España, Malasia, Rusia, hasta en Sudáfrica! Muchos de mis queridos ex alumnos se regresaron a sus países (sobre todo Corea, Japón y Brazil). Parte de la familia de mi esposo vive en Guadalajara; y yo tengo familia en Can Cun, España y Wisconsin. Así que esta es una buena manera de permanecer "en contacto". Este primer blog está dedicado a mi querida Nonna y a mi sobrino, Caleb James.