Surviving the Peters Clan. (It's a Jungle out there)

Consildation is the word of the day :)

2009-09-23T17:08:00.000-06:00

So I've decided to combine my personal blog with photo blog because it's just easier that way. So all of my 10 readers, if there are that many lol, bookmark da photo blog: http://www.rinalasiphotography.com or click here.

Loves,
7

Lagoon, Disney's first cousin

2009-09-07T19:37:00.001-06:00

As you know, I do things very spur of the moment. Ask anybody, especially my in-laws, poor things. I swear I change my mind like a girl changes clothes (oiiish, what song is that??). I'm HORRIBLE, sorry let me bold that, HORRIBLE, at planning anything. I try, I swear I do...but I like so many different things and I am so stinkin' bi-polar!! (In a good way of course lol). Anywho, we were lucky enough to come across some free Lagoon tickets (thanks J and b!). So off we went to Lagoon at around 1:30ish. At first the kids were like, "We don't want to go to Lagoon...we wanna go to Disneyland!! So like any good parent would, I told the kids that Lagoon is Disney's first cousin. HAHA All in unison, they were like, "Ohhhhhhh...".

Now, I'm a scaredy cat. But only since I've become a mommy have I turned in to a scaredy cat. So I was worried that my kids would be freaking out and not want to ride on any rides. Boy was I wrong. They wanted to go on EVERY ride (well Tui and Po wanted to go on every kid ride). Noa and I rode on "Wicked" together...wicked has over a 100 ft drop....INSANE!!!!!! He rode behind me, and I nearly cried RIGHT before we blasted off. Probably was still crying but you couldn't tell as the wind blasting in my face dried all my tears (thank u). When we got off, I grabbed my Bubba and hugged him tight...but I was shocked to find him laughing and so happy!! I could have sworn he'd be crying and afraid to go on any other rides even remotely as scary as "Wicked". But I was wrong, he rode Colossus right after hehe I'm so glad my kids are not scaredy cats like me, and I don't ever want to hold them back.

Anyway, we had a BLAST and I am so happy that we went. We not have a new tradition: Lagoon every Labor Day weekend----Hollah!! I gotta lose weight by next Labor Day for sure hehe

Love,
7

It's 3AM chatter....

2009-08-22T03:14:00.004-06:00

With the crazy week I've had, I should be sound asleep....but no, I just got done checking my {FB} and now I'm blogging lol. I haven't blogged since baby {E} was born, so here goes an attempt at an update.

I updated my photoblog. The most recent post is pretty deep hehe Now I'm thinking that people might get the wrong impression. BUT I figure, as long as I know what I'm talking about, then it's all geezy {good}.

I have worked about 50 hours this week at my day job (applyki.com). My sis-in-law Megan is now working with me. She's doing a great job and I am happy that she's happy working there as well. Our company is growing like a weed, it's insane. So I'm definitely glad to be a part of this growing company, and under the care of a boss who's AMAZING and down to earth :) I haven't taken any pictures lately, but I plan on doing that probably this weekend because I need pics of my babies.

Noa started school this last Thursday. He is in Mrs. Bethel's class. Unfortunately, he is not in the same class as his cousin Iuli and Tina. But he's ok with that because he has tons of friends from his Kindergarten class, who are now in his 1st grade class. He LOVES and I mean LOVES school lunch! Which, I'm soooo grateful for. He is riding the bus this year, he's been begging us to so we were happy to oblige this year.

Tui will be starting school this coming Thursday. I am so nervous for her. She has her test thingy this coming Tuesday with her new teacher, who was Noa's Kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Rodas. She is also SISTER Rodas to us, as she's in our ward too-hollah! LOL Mrs. Rodas is the bomb and I respect her and teachers all around for the work that they do. I appreciate you guys!

Popo is still Popo. He is wanting to play xbox more, due to the fact that he discovered you can download demos for dang near every single game on Live. HAHA I am contemplating putting him in day care while the other two are at school...but still not sure yet.

Mani is still the Director of Customer Support at wholesalematch.com and I'm so proud of him. He hired Natalie a couple weeks ago and he brags about how great she is all the time :) Wholesalematch is growing as well and we're just truly blessed to be thriving in this economy.

Ok I think that's it...oh yeah! And a picture:

This is a pic I took at Omi's workshop. The model here is Angel Moleni. I went to high school with her and her sister Crystal (K-town hollah! lol). Crystal was also a model there. It was great to see them again. I remember how funny they were in high school, every one liked them. Anyway, was feeling colorful and dirty at the same time, so that's what I decided to do with this photo. I think I still like the original better...I'll post that another time.

Ok already, I have to go to bed so I can continue my cleaning spree.

{7}

A miracle

2009-08-04T13:54:00.003-06:00

That's what I was able to witness and be a part of yesterday. I witness my niece, Eliana Taeaolelei Runge, literally push herself out in to this world hehe She was such a cheeky girl and surprised us ALL by coming way sooner than we thought. We were doing "practice" pushes for about 20 mins, everything was calm. Then Greg decides to just check and then he shouted "SHE'S HERE!!" from then on it was chaos. But she was healthy, "A perfect 10 the nurses said" and they were right. She is absolutely a perfect 10 :) I promised Rach I wouldn't post the pics I took before she did BUT I have to cheat a little and so I'll post just ONE!

And now, I introduce to you, Eliana Taeaolelei Runge:

Rina "Procrastination" Toketa

2009-07-27T22:35:00.000-06:00

That's what my middle name should have been. I swear I'm trying (just not very hard) lol. For instance, I have yet to finish my Fourth of July post and it's almost August :( In a nutshell Fourth of July was amazing. My family had so much fun and we truly appreciate and love the Loosle's for their hospitality and love.

I've been trying to finish my photo blog. It's a gift from Jon and Berta and it's a ~~little~~ a LOT more complicated than blogger. I love it, don't get me wrong, it's definitely more professional looking lol it's just all the coding and personalizing that's the hard part. I'm almost there though and will post as SOON as I get that up and running.

Work is good. I'm blessed to have a job, not only that, but a job that I don't HATE and a job that works with my schedule. I'm sooooo extremely grateful for my boss who seriously has my back no matter what. He's so understanding whenever something comes up in my life that prevents or delays me from working. He's such an honest great guy and OH! I got a raise today!! Hello!!!! LOL

We just got back from a camping trip with the Myrick's (Mani's sisters) and we had a blast. Yes the kids were covered in dirt from head to toe the entire time, yes I had to sleep on an uncomfortable air bed, yes there wasn't any plumbing, yes the hike to the bathrooms weren't pleasant and YES YES YES it's not luxury. BUT I wouldn't have traded those memories for anything and I mean ANYTHING in the world. I love Mani's family so much and feel lucky to have them as in laws. I know I am anti social some times, mostly because I'm editing or working on my blog/website but they know I love them (they better) lol. My kids had so much fun with their cousins and it would make my heart melt every time I saw the cousins hug or tell each other "I love you". It's just nice to know that they are so close and I couldn't be happier. These annual camping trips are something we look forward to every year and has also inspired me to try to organize an annual camping trip for my side of the family! Starting next year-yay!

Mani's doing an awesome job at his work. I swear everyone loves him there, well, who doesn't love him? lol Story of my life! Nah, I'm blessed to have such a hard working loving husband. I'm so proud of him and happy that he takes care of his, no doubt.

Hmmm...I think you're all caught up now. I promise to post some pics of camp soon, but probably on my facebook...it's just easier that way!

I can't believe Noa and Tui will be starting school soon. It makes me want to cry and jump for joy at the same time :)

Love,
7

Tried and True and EEEEEEEEEEEEEASY :)

2009-07-16T17:41:00.000-06:00

I made this banana bread today and not only did it make my house smell heavenly, but it tasted even better than at smelled (yes it's possible!). We will definitely be making this again very soon.

Love,
7

cont'd 4th of July with the Loosle's

2009-07-12T16:57:00.000-06:00

July 2nd, 2009

10:00 ish AM - McGrumpy (that would be me) woke up to get to work...WTH? I'm on VACATION!! Still went to work...sheesh.
10:45 ish AM - The evil Queen and her sidekick brought back Cheddar Bagels with crack....I ate 5 too many.
Noonish - I clocked out. I'm so happy. Wait, scratch that, the Chief and his minions just arrived. Reached for the pain killers...and more bagels with crack.
1:00 ish PM - The evil Queen made evil Tuna sandwhiches with EEEEVIL light mayo. I knew she was trying to poison us. Light Mayo, psssh.
2:00 ish PM - Off to the park...
3:30 ish PM - McGrumpy, Mrs. Chief, evil Queen, Single Lady and Chief's girly offspring went to the store.
4:00 ish PM - Us ladies went to Cold Stone (we never told the boys hehe) and the Chief's girly offspring found out some "life changing" news about their mother...LOL!!
7:00 PM - Apartment "hood" BBQ...the evil King made us go :(
9:00 ish PM - Off we went to the King's humble ca mode, I mean abode (oops) when he was a little Prince. Finally we were able to hang out with funk master Eric and his wifey Miss Patty. Cue Angels Singing.
10:00 ish PM - The fireworks at the University started, I think...not too sure because I can't see them. But I can hear them...
I forgot, during this time we also lit sparklers (soon we would see the King's ~~pathetic~~ awesome firework show case). Our monsters loved the sparklers almost as much as I loved my bagels w/crack...almost.
Check out some of our cool sparkler art:

Ok let's try this again...check out our cool sparkler art:

It's a HEART!!

"lei"

(berta...look closely)

(rina in cursive, so I can't write my name backwords...go jump)

So after the fireworks the lame crew went back to the Loosle's and the COOL CREW stayed at the Loosle's :) And boy I had the BEST sleep I've ever had in all my stays in Logan. Thank you funky fresh Eric and his wifey Miss Patty---HOLLA!

Love,

4th of July with the Loosle's {EDITED}

2009-07-06T21:54:00.001-06:00

Thursday July 2nd:
03:00 AM - 3LW arrived. I was tired.
10:30 AM - The head hancho of 3LW woke me up from my much needed slumber. "You've been sleeping too long." Said the evil witch with the cutest boomer in her arms.
12:00 PM - Had to work.Shoot.Me.Now.
7:30 PM - Started packing, due to leave in a half hour.
7:50 ish PM - On our way to Logan, UT but not before stopping at the new Maverick on 8th North, right before the freeway entrance. We stocked up on water (and the leader of 3LW got some donuts-shame shame shame, we know your name!)
10:00 PM - Ascending from the canyon in to Logan, UT. B texts the master of 3LW and says that her majesty and the King are not home. Wait 20 mins or die, and pee your pants. Note to self, steal the King's key and make a copy.
10:20 PM - We are at the Loosle's. But where are they? Text to bootylicious, "Where for art thou?". No response. I hate her.
10:20:52 PM - The King and his evil Queen return to their humble abode. I can finally pee.
11:00 ish PM - 1LW, the smartest one I think, realizes she lost the cap to her air bed. Sad story.
Midnightish, bed time for the Tonkytonk's (Toketa's)

Stay tuned for a break down of Friday July 3rd.

7

{EDITED} Note to self: never again reveal plans involving The King, apparently he reads our blog. Another note to self: running out of room for notes to self....interesting.

Banana Bars

2009-06-30T16:38:00.000-06:00

I made this recipe today and I'm so glad that I did! It's Banana Bars (the recipe also included a Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting, but I didn't have all that). I had these suckers plain and they were the bomb and it made my house smell sooooo yummy---BONUS! lol You guys HAVE to try this recipe, it's awesome :)

Love,
7

PS...next up, spaghetti and meatballs...but with Penne Pasta :)

i heart preggo bellies

2009-06-28T19:20:00.001-06:00

Hi y'all! Check out a maternity sesh I did for my cuz Rachel at my Photo Blog.

Love,
7

For my niece...Eliana {teaser}

2009-06-24T21:40:00.000-06:00

Isn't it...luh-vuh-lee (lovely, but you gotta say it like Aunty Nele on Poi Dogs...if you don't know, you betta ask somebody! LOL). This is my cousin Rachel BKA R-Foo BKA Miss Aloha! hehe Rachel is my first cousin on my mom's side and she's more like a sister to me. I love this girl like crazy and to see her transititon in to motherhood is truly a blessing. Rachel is hapai (pregnant) with her 2nd baby girl. Allie is her first baby and Eliana will soon make her arrival :) I'm so honored that Rach asked me to take some maternity pics. I had a blast (duh) and was happy to dust off my camera :) Anyway, this is just a sneak peak and I swear I will be posting much more in a few days. Thanks for looking!

Mahalo,

"Penne" for your thoughts?

2009-06-20T10:56:00.000-06:00

So I made this recipe 2 days ago. It's Garlic Chicken Pasta with Spinach. It was good...however, I realized that I'm not a "fresh" type of pasta sauce kinda girl, I like it creamy all da way! LOL Anyway, next up, roast beef, garlic mashed potatoes and lion house rolls.

Love,
7

2 Christmases ago...

2009-06-17T14:58:00.002-06:00

...this is what Tui looked like:

Isn't she so stinkin' cute?? Oi!

7

David

2009-06-17T14:49:00.004-06:00

So my cousin Dave is a clone. I swear it. I see people that are "Dave" look-a-like's EVERYWHERE. TV, Grocery Store, Park...EVERYWHERE. I was thinking about this yesterday and was cracking up. So many times I've had to do a double take thinking I saw Dave...but no, just another "Dave" clone :) David is half Samoan and half English (go Liverpool!). BUT fully American, born and raised. Anyway, here's Dave with his gorgeous lil' aiga:

Love you Davey Baby!! (My mom's pet name for her Davey Baby---puke!) lol

7

Pineapple Ham Verdict

2009-06-16T17:17:00.004-06:00

Hi world!

So the Pineapple Ham with Cheesy Potatoes (and rice, hello we're poly) definitely hit the spot. I loooove Ham and I must say this ham was cooked to perfection (toot toot!) LOL To say the Cheesy Potatoes were Cheesy is an understatement if I ever heard one. But the more the merrier, right? RIGHT!

Today we're taking a break from home cooked meals. Swapping Friday's plan for Today's plan, only because we had some things come up that are preventing me from making a home cooked meal. But never fear, things should be back to normal by tomorrrow.

Love,
7

It was a hit! (Thanks Snickerdoodle)

2009-06-15T16:37:00.002-06:00

So the Chicken Broccoli Cheesy thing was dabomb.com! Even Mani loved it (he had two servings, thank you very much!). It was cheesy, comforting, warm and gooey and the bread crumbs to top it off...perfection :) And Miss Amy you are ALWAYS welcome at our dinner table!

Click here for the recipe folks!

Tonight:

Love,
7

Oh yeah...stay tuned for some news!

Something new but long overdue

2009-06-14T14:07:00.003-06:00

If you know me, you know that I don't cook. I bake every so often, but actually cooking is just not my thang. However, it is a new year (the middle of a new year lol) and I was DETERMINED to cook a meal for the next 5 days. So here's my menu:

Sunday: Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. I got the recipe from a family friend, Amy. Her blog is amazing and this girl is so creative/talented and she's cool peoples---lol. Still contemplating whether or not to eat rice with this??

Monday: Roast Beef with Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Corn

Tuesday: Crispy Chicken Wraps. Recipe from this blog. This is one of my fav foodie blogs and I've been wanting to try this recipe for a while now.

Wednesday: Pineapple Ham with Cheesy Potatoes. Ok so I changed the name from "funeral" to cheesy becase cheesy sounds more appetizing to me :) The Cheesey Potatoes recipe I also got from Amy's blog.

Thursday: Garlic Chicken Spinach Pasta w/lion house rolls. REALLY looking forward to this one! This is also a recipe from this blog. Both recipes are from that blog.

Friday: BREAK from cooking---lol

WISH ME LUCK!! I'm going to need it ;)

Love,
7

P.S. My budget for this 5 day meal deal was $100. Meat and all! I pretty much had to buy everything and I $1.07 OVER budget (but I bought cookies-lol). So I would have been UNDER budget!

L4D

2009-06-08T21:28:00.002-06:00

So those of you who read my blog, follow me on twitter or are on my FB friends list, know that I am obsessed with L4D. And when I say obsessed I really REALLY mean it. You have asked me, "Rina, what is L4D?". Well this post will let you know ALL of the details that you MAY or MAY NOT have wanted to know :)

First off...here are the cast of characters:

From Left to Right: Francis (my fav), Bill (old school), Zoey (ew) and last AND most definitely the LEAST, Louis. No one likes to be Louis, and no Lini, it's not because he's black ;)

Then we have the zombies:

Oh my heck! You guys have no idea how much my heart is racing right now and how I'm trying so hard not to shoooooooot, run and shoot that is ;)

Then we have the 'special' infected:

This guy here is the Hunter. He has the creepiest yell or shriek I should say. He pounces on you and if you don't knock him out before he knocks YOU out, you better hope you're not playing with Loki so that one of your Survivor buddies will knock the Hunter off for you. (Or shoot him in the head).

This dirty guy is the Smoker. Noooooo not Francis! The guy with his tongue around Francis. The Smoker will use his crazy tongue to snatch you up from a distance. And once again...PRAY you're not playing with Loki because he will run away. You either have to shoot the Smoker withing the small window of opportunity before he completely has you wrapped up. OR hope your Survivor buddies kill him or shove him to release you.

I know what you're thinking..."Dang he's H-O-T-T!!" Well wipe up your drool cause this is the Boomer and he don't like Humans! The Boomer is my favorite special infected to play as (when you're in Vs. mode, a whole other post) but I HATE being up against him as a Survivor. This guys vomit is LETHAL and you better make sure you don't get "boomed" on or else you'll have a hard time shooting the zombies that are atracted to the Boomer's vomit! This is because your vision turns green and stays green for a few seconds, but seems like a few minutes. I shouln't have to say it...PLEASE make sure you ain't playin' with Loki when you come across this guy...

This is the Witch. She's creepy. When you're getting close to her you hear a female crying like a moaning type crying. This is when you'll want to turn your flash light off (well if you're an amateur). When you get closer to the witch she'll start to get angry and if you get TOO close she'll get startled and TEAR YOU UP!! One touch from the Witch and you're down for the counting. Pray you're playing with ME cause I dislike this crazy lady and will light her up REAL quick ;)

Oh my heck, I can't even look at this without my heart skipping a bit and without my feet busting a 'happy feet' move almost running away...okay this is the Tank. He is called the Tank for a reason. He is the big daddy of the Special infected and once he spots you you had better play as a team to take him down. And on that note people let's just make a pact not to play with Loki?!
The Tank is fast, do NOT underestimate his 'heftiness'. Seriously. He will FLY your butt across the room, he'll throw cars at you just knocking them outta the way. You HAVE to work as a team to take this sucker down.

Ok so there's the cast of characters. Now on to the "how do you play it" segment of this post.

So, Rina, how do you play it? Easy. You point and you shoot. I'm telling you it's THAT simple. Trust me, this is the first xbox game Lini purchased and she's pretty good. AND she's not a great hand eye coordination type of gal. So if she can play it, ANYONE can play it! There's also shoving the zombies or anything you want to shove (aka Loki).

The language can be a little alarming. I think you can turn it off...not sure though. I should really check because Noa plays on this thing ALMOST as much as I do. Now, don't judge me, or do...but we all play this game and it's the funnest (haha) game ever! We play with my siblings in Samoa to Vegas to Logan utah and also with Poli who's just down the street. It's so fun and I'm glad Poli was the first to buy this game.

Now we're looking forward to L4D 2 which will be released in November (hollah!). I can't WAIT. November is definitely going to be a good month. With the release of New Moon AND L4D2. So if y'all wanna come and play with us, here's the important info: gamertag: MANGOLOVERS

Love,
7

Happy Birthday Ma

2009-06-05T01:20:00.002-06:00

As I've said before people handle things differently. Today's my mom's birthday and I didn't take flowers to her grave. As a matter of fact, I haven't been to her grave in I don't even know how long. I'm not one to visit graves, I don't like it, matter-of-fact I dislike it immensly. My parents both know that I'm that way, so please don't think I'm a horrible horrible person for not being the type to visit the resting place of loved ones often, or at all in my case. I think about my mom a lot, like a lot a lot. I miss her so much and especially on a day like this. So this is a post for her :) (Please enjoy the music!)

Mom,

Do you remember that time at the Dr.'s office, we were sitting there and you were on the exam table thingy and we were crackin' jokes as always. Then, it got quiet and you said, 'RINA! What is that on your face?' and instantly I was swatting and wiping at my face thinking maybe it was a boogar or a pimple from hell (not normal-promise). I touched my nose, nope not there you said. 'By your ear, it's like black' ok something'. Ok, something black by my ear...I'm FUH-REAKING out! LAUGHTER....laughter so loud and sooooo genuine I started laughing. 'What? What is on my face?', finally when you catch a second to breath, "Oh...it's your sideburns". I was mortified!!! "MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!" Laughter, laughter. Our stomachs hurting because of the laughter. Ahhhh the good times.

How about the time we were in Vegas and I decided to give you a pedicure (you should have known I had bad news to tell you....I mean honestly, your knuckle head daughter, volunteering to give you a pedicure? You set yourself up for that one ma!) and we were talking about Mani. Gosh, you loved him already! Oh the look on your face when I told you he wasn't going on his mission any more. Oh but wait, how about the look on your face when I told you the reason. hahaha. Ok, ok! Next memory...sheesh!

Remember that one night I told you to 'shutup'. Ok really, I was a teenager and this was the first time I EVER dared to say that to you! It was bound to happen, I was such a good child anyway! haha How about the next day (after I got slapped for telling you to shutup) we went to visit Aunty Lasi and you were teasing me about something and you guys were laughing and I was riiiiiiight about to tempt my fate again and just as my mouth started to form the word "shutup" you said "Whoa! Remember the LAST time you said that to me! BWAHAHAHAHA" so not cool mom! Gosh!

Do you remember the outfit you wore on our trip to Maryland? Oh my heck, you LOVED it and I thought you were crazy for wearing PJ's on the airplane! I remember telling you it looked like a New Year's party barfed on your outfit...and we laughed and laughed. You know I was kidding, right ma?

I'll never forget the day I told you I was moving to Utah. Out of the house. On my own. Away from my mom. My bff. My world. My everything at that point. Mom, I cried too that night. I cried because I missed you already but my pride wouldn't let it show.

How about in church, sacrament meeting, you always sang your own melody to whatever hymn we were singing. And you weren't quiet about it either! Oh the shame we felt...even though after sacrament meeting on more than one occasion, people who sat next to us said how much they loved your voice. What I'd give, mom, to hear that voice one more time...

Mom, thank you for loving me more than I will ever know. Thank you for raising me to be the woman, wife, mother that I am today. Thank you for loving my kids unconditionally :) I miss you so so so much and I hope I make you proud all the days of my life.

I love you and Happy Birthday.

Your baby

The things kids say...

2009-05-31T20:52:00.004-06:00

Tui: Wow! That is "duh-licious"!

Noa: It's not "duh" licious it's DEE licious

Tui: Mom, why do I have to say DEE licious?

Mom: Well, that's how you say it.

Tui: Well I don't want to say it that way!

Mom: Well how do you want to say it?

Tui: DUH! licious

Mom: LOL!!

A Canvas for 3LW

2009-05-30T13:02:00.003-06:00

Lini's been begging me to throw this canvas together for MONTHS! "Throw this canvas together"? Are you kidding me? It took me HOURS!! I am so stinkin' indecisive it ain't even funny ;) SO finally, my dear Sister, here it is...and if you don't like it..I'm going to pull my hair out! LOL Nah I know you'll love it...I love you guys and miss you so much!

Resolutions were meant to be broken...right?

2009-05-26T18:49:00.000-06:00

Well as you can tell (if you read my blog-hollah!) that I broke one of my resolutions (fairly quickly after setting it! lol). The resolution I'm speaking of is blogging on a daily basis. It's so much harder than I thought. I just don't have anything interesting to say EVERY day. I do need to try to be better though, as this is really for my kids to read when they get older and see how much of a dork their mother was ;O)

So Memorial Day weekend was fun. We bought a new ride and I couldn't be happier. I NEVER thought I'd be the owner of a 2008 SUV. But I am, so there. We didn't go to any of my parents graves, mostly because I don't like to. I dislike it immensly. I pay to tribute to my parents every single day and if you think about it, it's memorial day for me every day. I'm just not the kind of person who will go and sit at my parents' resting place and think about them. I mean, I think about them ALL THE TIME. I guess it's good to visit every once in a while. But I'm sure my parents know how I am and KNOW why I don't like to 'visit' them where their 'physical' body rests. So that's that story.

I've been so busy with work and family, but a good kind of busy. Mani and I are excited for the future now and just completely optimisic. Something HUGE for me! I'm such a negative person, I'm ALWAYS thinking, "Worst case scenario" and Mani's always there to tell me to hush and stop worrying.

We are excited for Orem Summerfest and camping this year. As you can see, I posted a list of camping stuff I need to gather. So if any of y'all wanna donate to my cause---HOLLA AT YA GIRL! LOL I can't believe Noa is done with Kindergarten and Tui is starting, time sure does fly once they start school aye?

I think that's my update for now. I'm actually at work and people are starting to stare at my mad fingers POUNDING at the keyboard-hehe. But this update was LONG over due.

Love you,
7

He saved my {life}

2009-05-06T21:18:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was Mani's b-day and, being the procrastinating person that I am cursed to be, I didn't give him a proper shout out anywhere on the World Wide Web. He even IM'd me from work yesterday and said, "How come you haven't wished me happy birthday on Facebook?". lol Now, before you start judging, I wished him happy birthday that MORNING but apparently he wanted a facebook shoutout (my bad).

Anyway, Mani turned 26 yesterday, and to think he was only 17 years old when we met. AMAZING. We met at ALLC, if you don't know what this is, I'm not telling you. So don't ask :) I had seen him around before, but he was always with this kid (I knew his little sister) and this girl who I couldn't tell if she was Hawaiian or wanna-be-Hawaiian. Didn't matter though, I hated her, only because I was "j". I though she was Mani's keige (girl) and that was that. The first friend I made at ALLC, was this girl named Angel. She was from NYC and one tough cookie. Apparently she was getting in to trouble in New York and so her parents sent her to good ol' Orem Utah to set her straight (yeah wasn't really working). A few days later, I walked in to ALLC to see Angel talking to Mani. I was hesitant to go over there but she called me over. Angel introduced me to 'Manny' (Mani) and Mani was WEEEIIIIIIRD! I thought he hated me because he was just soooo weird! He was stand offish, he didn't laugh at my jokes, he didn't laugh period I don't think---AKWARD! Anyway, literally like 2 days after Angel introduced Mani and I, she disappeared off the face of the Earth. It's was kind of weird that an "Angel" introduced me to my ~~forever love~~. Ok that was cheesy, scratch that. Anyway, we started hanging out, nothing serious (or so I thought). I remember one time I was getting ready to go out with Mani and Poli was giving me problems asking, "Who is this?" "What's his name?" "How old is he?" and so on. And my mom hushed him, saying "Poli, calm down. You don't have to worry about him, he's gay." I totally forgot that I had told my mom weeks before the SAME THING! Gosh I love that woman. And Poli left at that, knowing FULL AND WELL that that was not the case. A couple months passed by and Mani and I were pretty much inseperable. During that time Poli and his family moved to Las Vegas, something I"ll never forget or forgive them for (j/k). Mom was soooooooooo depressed about this that she finally couldn't take it anymore. Knowing I would NOT move to Las Vegas without kicking and screaming and hating her, she sent me away to Chicago (to my sisters, Teri and Berta) but didn't tell me until like 2 days before I was to leave. The night before I left, I hung out with Mani all night long. At this point, I still wasn't meaning for this to go anywhere but this boy new what he wanted, that's for sure. We said goodbye and it was really sad. I rode the train to Chicago (Sidenote: Please do not watch Save the Last Dance before going to Chicago. It will cause you to not want to get off the train, or out of your seat for that matter), it took 2 days for me to get there. This was plenty of time for sisters to prepare for my arrival, however, they were still late (something else I will never forgive a sibling for). I was happy to see my sisters, of course. Although they had abandoned me for Chicago.

I didn't call Mani after I got to Chicago. I think I purposely left his number behind. After maybe 3 or 4 (or 5) weeks of being in Chicago, I kind of just let it go. The whole Mani and me idea. But one day, Vagi (my cousin who lived in the upstairs apartment) ran down saying some guy was on the phone for me. I knew who it was right away and I was right. It was Mani and he sounded so relieved that he found me-lol Apparently another mutual friend of ours gave him my phone# (thanks girl!) We talked for HOURS, trust me, my mother-in-law STILL talks about the $700 phone bill we accrued (and paid) lol. We talked about EEEEVERYTHING, seriously.

Finally on Thanksgiving he told me he loved me. On Christmas he sent me a stocking filled with my fav candies as well as a teddy bear and a promise ring *tear*. I called my mom and she was happy but I don't think she really thought I'd marry him.

I left chicago I think 9 months later?? I moved in with my mom in Las Vegas. Mani would visit and finally when I turned 18 I asked my mom if I could move out. This was LITERALLY on my 18th birthday. She didn't hesitate to say "NO!". I told her, "Mom, you should thank me for asking you. I'm 18, I don't need your permission anymore." She immediately hugged me and laughed and kissed me and even cried. I'll never forget the day I left my mom, Mani had driven to Las Vegas to get me and I was so sad to leave her and I know she was sad to see me go. It had been me and her for SO LONG. She was my best friend. But she loved Mani already, she told me so. That made me feel a lot better. Anyway, the rest is pretty much history. We got married soon after moving to Utah and back to Vegas we went-haha

I say Mani saved my life because he did. I did not know who I really was until I met him. The path I was heading down when I met Mani was not a good path. At.All. I'm a better person because of this man and I'm proud to be his wife. I love you babe and happy birthday!

7

The Contest HAS arrived :)

2009-05-04T19:06:00.000-06:00

Go to Omi's blog for the Group Shoot competition! I HATE seeing my picture up there, well I take that back. I don't HATE seeing it, it's just sooo akward-lol. I voted once and now I will not check back until the Omi posts the results. However, can I just say that I worked with the MOST amazing people in the Group Shoot and I am happy to say that I have made friends that share the same passion that I do for Photography. Whew! LOL

So what are you waiting for? GO VOTE!

Love,
7

Omi Photo's Group Shoot

2009-05-02T14:15:00.000-06:00

So, despite the weather last night, I had a blast at Omi's Group Shoot. I learned so much and I got to shoot along side some GREAT photographers, including Sanae James and Kayleen T..

I carpooled with Sanae because we are both from Utah County. It was a little wet at the shoot but that's good ol' Utah for you! It didn't get us down though because miss Omi was on her toes the whole time throwing ideas at us. It seriously was A LOT to take in. I was in awe pretty much the entire time just watching Omi, Sanae and all of the other photogs/models doing their thang. I sometimes forgot that I was there to take pictures too! LOL I will be forever grateful to Omi and for all the hard work she does and what an inspiration she is. She really is one of the sweetest, coolest, girls on the Photography block and I dare any one to say different!

I didn't get home until MIDNIGHT!! That should tell you how much fun we were having :) I hope Omi will do this again because I am definitely ready to learn even more!

Omi will be holding a competition at her blog on Monday. So don't forget to check her blog out and vote for the one you love the most! I will wait until after the competition to post more photos. I am giving my photo blog a makeover so definitely check back later :)

Love,
Rina

One smart kid

2009-04-30T09:52:00.002-06:00

So Noa has to write in his journal every night, as part of his homework. Here's what he wrote last night: "I Like vechTUBOs and chrees. ThaYe re cooL. SOW CooL anD I Like aBos. Thae are GooD."

Translation: "I like vegetables and tress. They are cool. So cool and I like apples. They are good.

Here's the picture he drew to accompany this fascinating piece of literature:

That's him eating a carrot and "abo" (apple), under a tree, next to a swimming pool. I must be honest, at first her wrote, I hate "chrees" they're so "ogle" (ugly). I told him that wasn't very nice and go back and rewrite his entry. LOL Kids really do say, AND WRITE, the darndest things. I can't wait to show him this when he's graduating high school :) I love you, Bubba.

{mom}

Noa BKA Bubba

2009-04-23T20:28:00.000-06:00

Here are a couple of pages that I finished for my digi-scrapbook. I hope you like it, cause I LOVE it!

Love,

Rina

Can you say S L A C K E R??

2009-04-14T23:24:00.003-06:00

SLACKER! Oh my, I am so fired with trying to blog on a regular basis. I have so much to blog about that it's overwhelming :) Easter was a blast, I spent it with the people I love most and that's all I could ever ask for.

Oh wait, good news minute, I GOT A RAISE TODAY!!! HOLLA!

Love,
Rina

Psyche!

2009-04-03T15:56:00.000-06:00

Remember when I said I was going private?? Well I changed my mind, more so because my family (the lazy, computer iliterate ones) whined for days about this decision. Therefore, I'm staying PUBLIC---aren't you glad?? hehe

Love,
Rina

Target+Twilight+iTunes=One stoked Rina!!

2009-03-16T23:55:00.001-06:00

Twilighters Unite!! LOL ok, that was lame. Anyway, can I just say I am way excited to hear that when you buy the Twilight movie at Target it also comes with a free digital download from iTunes, so you can take Twilight with you WHEREVER your iPod/iPhone will go? Oh be still my heart...can't wait!! You can only get the iTunes download from Target so if y'all be some iTunes+Twilight fans, I HIGHLY suggest purchasing your Twilight movie from Target. AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAND....wait for it...only at Target will you get a THREEEEE disc special edition with the 3rd DVD being an over 45 minute special with NEVER BEFORE SEEN scenes----I think I just died and went to heaven. AND there's more, the iTunes download is not only for the movie, but for all the extra shiz too...HOLLAAAAAA!! So please, do not bother me on Saturday unless it's an emergency. lol I'm shutting reality out and chillin' with my fanged homies all weekend long. I'll see ya at Target y'all!!

K Goodnight!

Rina

A ShabbyPrincess.com Freebie!

2009-03-07T10:05:00.001-07:00

Those who know me, know that I am obsessed with Digital Scrapbooking! One of my all time {fav} designers is (hand down) Shabby Princess. She has some of the cutest thing around the WWW and she has AWESOME freebies :-) Go to her site and check out her freebies!!

Love,
Rina

Just a quick "Hello!"

2009-03-06T21:23:00.002-07:00

I'm in Vegas with Berta visiting Lini and Mariaha and family, having the bestest time! Mani and Jon are on their way right now...can't wait to see my baby!

Love,
7

Pay It Forward

2009-03-02T11:43:00.001-07:00

"The first 3 people to leave a comment on this post will receive a handmade gift from me during this year. When and what will be a surprise. There's a small catch though...Post this same thing on your own blog and then come back and leave a comment telling me you're in. Remember, only the first 3 comments receive the gift!"Giving makes me so happy! I hope you first three people who comment will really do this and pass it on to others and find the joy in giving...paying it forward!!

Bakerella has answered...

2009-03-01T21:44:00.000-07:00

a question I've had forEVER! And, she posted pics too! I'm such a visual person, so the pictures helped A TON. What am I talking about? Well, Bakerella found and tried this recipe. It's THE closest thing to the Applebee's Blondie, per Bakerella. I immediately called Berta and told her about this post because the Applebee's Blondie is our FAVE desert (or ONE OF, I should say!). So for any of you Applebee's Blondie Lover's out there (holla!) you MUST try this!

Love,
RinDogE

Going Private!

2009-03-01T18:16:00.000-07:00

Hey y'all :) Just wanted to let everyone know (you know, all you HUNDREDS out there that read my blog-lol) that I am going to set this blog to 'private' very soon. My photo blog will still be public, of course...so please e-mail me so that I can add you to my readers list, thing...lol

Love always,
7

Coffee Table Book, Photo Book, Story Book, Scrap Book...

2009-02-26T21:29:00.000-07:00

Whatever you wanna call it...I'm finally making one! I've been meaning to make one for forever and I've started making one so many stinkin' times it ain't even funny!! So, I've made myself do at least a page a day! So far so good...here are a few sneak peaks :)

The Cover

Popo's page (one of)

The text on the cover says, "A true rich man is one whose arms are filled with his children." I love that quote! And on Popo's page the text reads, "you are my everything". I decided early on that I would put quotes to some of my fav songs on each page. There isn't a whole lot of journaling...journaling just really isn't my style...but IDK, we'll see how it goes!

Love,

Another Sisters weekend :-)

2009-02-24T17:33:00.000-07:00

So Berta's flying out to Vegas with me!! YAY! Oh my heck we're so excited! We get to go to the PMA convention and hang out with Lini and her girls :-) I'll be taking some family pics for my cousin Mariaha and Lini and her girls as well. Can't wait! It'll be nice to shoot some desert scenes rather than the green grass for a change. LOL! Anyway, we'll be flying out to Vegas next Thursday and will go straight fromt he airport to the convention. Then we'll hang out there for as long as we like and then we'll hopefully eat some crab legs...YESSSS!! I've been freaking craving crab legs like no other! Our hubbies will be driving down to Vegas on Friday night...they think we invited them to hang out for the weekend, but really we just need a ride home =) HAHAHA Totally kidding!

Ok gotta go, on my way to pick up my SIL Jen so we can head over to Dinner Development with Omi.

Love,
7

Lord of the "grocery" ring...

2009-02-24T11:15:00.000-07:00

I live in a grocery ring, which is great for me especially with doing couponing and all. I love next to Harmons, Macey's, Walgreen's, Albertson's and Smith's...all within a minute from my house! I LOVE IT! Wal-Mart is just maybe 5 or 6 minutes away, but who cares?! LOL So last night I went grocery shopping at ALL but Macey's (I sent Mani to Macey's because it was for all the meat and no coupons needed).

Here's what I got:

First stop, Albertsons
20 Cans of Progresso Soup
2 Granny Smith Bread
2 Kraft Salad Dressing
2 Albertson's Potato Chips
1 package of batteries (16 ct)
5.61 lbs of Chicken Thighs (yes we LOVE chicken thighs-lol)

Harmon's
6 Budding Deli Meat
3 lbs of Oranges
2 Yellow Onions
1 Red Onion
5 lb bag of Idaho Potatoes

Smith's
4 (8oz) bags of Kraft Shredded Cheese
2 packages of Kraft Singles (American and Sharp Cheddar)
2 Kroger Sour Cream
2 Gallons of Mountain Dairy Milk
2 Dozen Large Smith's Eggs

Walgreen's
1 St. Ive's Apricot Scrub
1 Pot of Gold Hershey's Chocolates

So I got a total of 52 items and my total OOP (out of pocket) was $57.35 making each item about $1.10! AND I saved over $120!! We are TOTALLY stocked for a while and I couldn't be happier :-)

Free Quiznos Sub!

2009-02-23T21:14:00.002-07:00

Click here for more info. Quiznos is only giving away 1 MILLION free subs (yes, ONLY one million-lol)...so hurry and get a free sub, they're YUM-O!

Love,
7

More Couponing, Photo Marketing Convention and pictures!

2009-02-23T17:47:00.000-07:00

So today I took my cousin Rachel and Aunty Lasi to do some couponing at Albertson's. We are totally taking advantage of this sale! Our checker was extra 'nice' to us, and by nice I mean extremely RUDE! But do you think we cared? NOPE! We "KILLED HER WITH KINDNESS"!!! It was funny funny funny...here's what I wrote at the PYP forums:

"That's my motto (well most of the time-lol). So today I went to Albertson's in Orem on Center Street. I had my cousin and my Aunt with me, they're newbies like me, but I had gone to take advantage of this sale last week and they kinda wanted me to help them to show them the ropes I, of course, agreed!

So we got our items, my cousin had four transactions and my aunt had four, I had one (but stood in a different line). Mind you, they only had TWO checkers at this Albie's at about 10 AM and one of those checkers was also monitoring the Self Check AND Customer Service!

After I had checked out, I could tell my cousin was getting flustered and the checker had the grouchiest look on her face, EVER! So I went over to help out. The checker was extremely rude and kept saying snide remarks. She also mentioned to a 'buddy' of hers (the bagger) how unhappy she was about having to be pulled from her break to do 'this'. It is so not like us to be rude back, but I seriously wanted to. Instead we were telling her how excited we were about this sale and how this is our first 'real' couponing trip since we took the 'class'. The checker looked SHOCKED, and I mean SHOCKED at that comment and said, "THERE IS SOMEONE WHO TEACHES YOU TO DO THIS?!" (I'm typing in caps because she was on the verge of shouting/crying) And we began to tell her about Grocery Smarts and Pinching Your Pennies and she says, "Only in Utah County would they do that!" She was TICKED!!! She was SOOOOOOOO MAD that someone actually TEACHES US to make her life MISERABLE! (At least I know that's how she felt) I told her, "Actually, I think Utah County is kinda not as busy as SL County" I also said, "And there are people ALL OVER the US that do this" and she said, "NO WAY! ONLY Utah County, NO one else does it!" She was totally arguing with me. Now, I could have thrown a fit, argued right back with her and told her not to be mad at us because their store manager didn't schedule enough checkers during a major sale like this, but instead we decided to "kill her with kindness" and keep positive over the whole thing. After we were done, we thanked her and told her we really appreciated it and she could have cared less.

It's funny because there were about at least 4 other women there who were fellow couponers (hi guys!) at that same store. So to all the frustrated checkers, please direct your anger/frustration at your store managers (or whoever does the scheduling) and encourage them to schedule MORE checkers during a sale like this.

That is my story LOL Sorry it was super long, but I just wanted to share my story in case someone had a similar thing happen to them. Kill 'em with kindness my fellow couponers, because in the end...WE are the ones who walked away with KILLER savings!!

I'm soooo extremely greatful for Grocery Smarts as well as PYP and all the hard work everyone puts in to these sites so that people like me, who can't afford to pay full price for anything, can actually be excited (not stressed) to spend money on food

Yay! "

On to the Photo Marketing Convention. My sister Lini works for Caesar's Palace and she's one of the Catering and Convention Manager, people, thingy. LOL! I don't know her "official" title, but it's something along those lines. Anyways, she called me today and said that one of her clients could get tickets to the convention, ALL INCLUSIVE-HOLLA! I've only been hearing all the hoopla (is that the word?) about WPPI (Wedding and Portrait Photographers International convention) but haven't heard anything about PMA. So when Lini told me about it, I googled it and they have a ton of stuff, mostly catering to helping you market your business/products but I'm soooooooooooooooooooooo excited!!!!! I should have made arrangements for WPPI, but I didn't even think to ask my sis for hookups, SILLY ME! But there's always next year :-)

And lastly, look at this McCutie (shout out to my Grey's girls! LOL):

Check out more of him and my other handsome boys, here.

Love you all and have a fabulous week!

Couponing is dabomb.com...here's the proof!

2009-02-21T21:36:00.001-07:00

10 Boxes of General Mills Cereal (Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Lucky Charms and Trix)

Total OOP (Out of Pocket): $12.55 Total Saved: $40.25 PLUS: I got a $10 Catalina (Albertson's Money) to use towards my next transaction, which is below:

10 Boxes of Betty Crocker Supreme Brownie Mix (Frosted, Cookie Brownie Bars, Original Supreme and Turtle)

Total OOP: $7.80 Savings: $26.15 PLUS: I got a $10 Catalina (Albertson's Money) to use towards my next transaction, which is below:

10 Cans of Progresso Soup (Chicken Pot Pie and Potatoe Broccolie Cheese-not sure if that's what it's called but taht's what it is! LOL)

Total OOP: $2.95 Saved: $28.20 PLUS I got a $10 Catalina to use towards my next transaction, which is below:

6 Cans of Betty Crocker Frosting (Rainbow Sprinkles, Cream Cheese)
4 Things of Warm Delights

Total OOP: $1.74 Total Saved: $26.80 PLUS I have TWO $10 Catalina's to use towards my next purchase!! (If you're wondering how I ended up with two, e-mail me because it's kinda confusing-hehe)

Total I got 50 items, TOTAL I paid $27.85 (If you subtract the $20 in Catalinas that I still have to use, it's like spending $7 on all this stuff!) and TOTAL I saved $142.63!! So I paid about .55 per item!! I will be going back to Albertson's on Monday with some family members who are couponing as well. So I'll definitely post my savings up after that.

I'm really glad that I happened to stumble across this blog where I learned all about the wonderful world of couponing. I used to HATE spending money on food and now I don't mind it so much, hehe. I know that I can't build a food storage based on brownie mix and frosting, but I'm hoping that with more sales like these I'll be able to expand the variety of our food storage. But it's a start, right? I'm excited that I'm actually starting to believe that I can have a food storage...yay me!

Love,
7

PS (OOPS! I forgot to take individual pics of the Pilsbury Grands! Biscuits. But I got 10 of those, Total OOP: $1.74, Total Saved: $26.80! Plus I got a $10 Catalina, the Grand Totals still remain the same as listed above)

Twilight DVD Pre-Orders anyone?

2009-02-15T16:42:00.001-07:00

Hey y'all! So I've been seeing ads around lately for Twilight DVD pre-orders. Where's everyone pre-ordering from? I was thinking Amazon, but I'll go somewhere else if I can get a better deal. So help a sista out!

Love,
Rina

Walgreen's Steals!

2009-02-11T17:32:00.023-07:00

So here's what I got:

4 Gillette Fusion Gamer shavers (with 2 cartridges)

4 Venus Embrace Shavers (With 2 cartridges)

1 Gillette Shave Gel

1 Volum Express Turbo Boost Mascara by Maybelline

1 Shadow Stylist by Maybelline

2 Illuminance Creme Shadows in Precious Metals 05 and Not Just Nudes

2 L'Oreal Bare Naturale Gentle Lip Conditioners in Soft Petal and Soft Honey

2 L'Oreal Infallible Never Fail Lipgloss in Sunset and Dulche De Leche

2 L'Oreal Nail Polish in Wishful Pinking and Dozen Red Roses

1 L'Oreal HiP Concentrated Shadow Duo in Wicked\

I got all of this for $59.93 saving OVER $123.00

Yes, I'm quite excited about this...can you tell? hehe PLUS I Still have ONE $6 Register Reward to use on my next purchase at Walgreen's-yay!

Sister time, Saving time, Shoot time

2009-02-07T23:46:00.064-07:00

Berta and Jon came down from Logan for another weekend of, wait for it....F-U-N!! I swear, we look forward to their visits all day every day-hehe. As soon as they leave, we wish they'd come back! I know I always talk about how much I love my siblings, especially my sisters. I just really REALLY do! Anyway, so speaking of sisters, Berta and I took Kailei and Mariana on another shoot :-) It was a really short shoot and Berta got the most pics because my stupid memory card is soooo small!! And I forgot to erase the pics from our previous shoot...oh well! I got a few shots and here's a teaser, as I will post more later:

Moving on. Last night, soon after Berta and Jon arrived, Berta and I went and did some grocery shopping to use some of my coupons. Here's a pic of da goods:

This is our purchase from Macey's and Smith's, and here's what we bought:

4-4 pack Yoplait Yoplus yogurt (Which can I just tell you that the blueberry is da bomb!)

2-Betty Crocker Fruit Roll Ups Stickers

12-Ortega Taco Seasonings (We use Taco Seasoning on so much, so this was a steal!)

2 Loaves of Grandma Emilies Bread

1 Bag of Hostess Donettes (Powdered, of course!)

4 Boxes of Ritz Crackers

4 Boxes of 12 ct. Pop Tarts

5 Tubes of Colgate Toothpaste

1 Gallon of Milk

Total Spent: $38.60

Total Saved: $17.93

Not bad, eh? This was definitely exciting for me...but the best is yet to come. Here is our shopping trip from Albertson's:

Here's what I bought:

3 Totino's Pizza Rolls

2 Bags of Bagels

10 Lunchables

14 Lipton Sides

2 Albertson's Potato Rounds (Tater tots)

2 Albertson's French Fries

12 Cans of Manwich

45 Items Total

Total Out of MY Pocket: $34.66

Total Saved: $75.83

YAY! I'm so excited over this :-) If you want to know more about couponing, check out this blog.

Goodnight!

Food Storage...love/hate relationship, only because I'm a slacker!

2009-02-05T20:18:00.002-07:00

So this past Tuesday, I hung out with my cousin-in-law, Sue (HOLLAHHH!! lol). Sue and I have a lot in common, some being Photography, photoshop, and now food storage. LMBO! Our extended families get together once a month for FHE and we always talk about food storage, it's importance, how we need to get started and so on and so forth. But, knowing me, I'm the WORST procrastinator that ever existed...I swear! Ok moving on...

While hanging out with Sue we got on the topic of Food Storage. Sue totally inspired me to get started, you know, just get over that HUUUUGE first hurdle of getting started. It's seriously so overwhelming though. But after talking with Sue I realized, you just do it little by little and it will all fall in to place and you'll see your "little" food storage stash and be inspired to make it BIGGER! So I came home so inspired and thankful for Sue's help. Oh yeah, then she went on to post some resources, suggestions, lists to help me out as well (and other people that read Sue's blog).

I have made a commitment to spend a portion of my tax return on food storage-yay! Wish me luck!

Thanks again, Sue...you're da bomb.com!

Love,
Rina

Coupon Mania, a Photo and a memory....

2009-02-05T00:27:00.004-07:00

Tonight I've been making my grocery shopping list as well as clipping my coupons that I'll be using with my shopping list. Can I just tell you that I get so excited using coupons! The money you save is...just plain silly. Wait, scratch that, NOT using coupons is JUST PLAIN SILLY!! I love calculating how much I'm going to be saving, amazing I tell ya!

Anyway, while I was couponing, Tui came in to my room with her cousin Kailei's BIG yellow flower, in her hair. It was too cute! So I hurried and busted out my camera and took a few pics. Here's one:

I still think my daughter was switched at birth...I can't believe I created such a beautiful being :)

And on to the memory...well I was reading Omi's latest blog post about her parents divorce, and how (at that age) she didn't know how to love both parents without feeling like you were betraying the other. She also said that her dad always would tell her that if she didn't want to spend time with him, he would understand.

Those are things I have thought about a lot (more so earlier in my life, than now) but never said out loud or wrote even. My parents divorced when I was 3 years old. So, I grew up with this after-the-divorce kinda life. I wasn't old enough to know how it was during and soon after the divorce and that is something that I am grateful for. My dad was always a HUGE part of lives, even though my parents were divorced. He would come and visit us and it was a total holiday every time! BUT I ALWAAAAYS felt guilty about leaving my mom behind. I would seriously feel...torn...between the two. It's nothing that either of them said or did, but I guess it was natural?

Reading Omi's post also made me think about how when I was little...I always asked my mom if she loved my dad. I would get a sick feeling in my stomach every time I asked her that, afraid she might finally say, "no". But that was never the case...she always said she loved my dad and that my dad loved her. That made me feel a MILLION times better. I never knew what kind of a toll the divorce took on my mom, I didn't even know we were poor dirt poor, because my mom always told us we were "rich with love". I always loved when she would say that, when I was LITTLE. But as I was growing older and started to realize that we didn't have money to do all the things my friends were doing, when she'd say that I would roll my eyes. I am so grateful that my mom was the woman she was...I wish I was HALF as brave and classy as she.

Time to go mohe,
Rina

Kailei and Mariana's Photo Shoot

2009-02-02T00:20:00.001-07:00

Hey everybody! Please head over to my Photo Blog to check out my latest shoot! Here's a little teaser:

Love,
Rina!

Happy Birthday Allie!

2009-01-31T18:12:00.004-07:00

Allie sure knows how to throw a birthday party-hehe. We had so much fun, especially the kids. It was fun to hang out with family we don't see very often and da grubs was NO KA OE!!! Oh so good :O) Anyway, here's a little teaser...don't you loooove the cupcakes?? Me, Kailei and Mariana decorated it all...so much fun! And soooo easy and it was a hit =) Love you Allie girl! {aunty} Rina

Pom Poms and Treat Bags

2009-01-30T20:04:00.006-07:00

Tomorrow is my nieces birthday party (and birthda)! She's turning one and of course her mama had to do it Island Style and make a biiiig deal out of it. But it's all good, I have an excuse not to diet--hehe. So today I was helping Bakerella's teddy graham cupcakes-yum-o!

Love,

Honestly, Rina! Very Random Post (VRP)

2009-01-29T19:52:00.004-07:00

Last night I made chocolate chip pancakes for dinner. The kids were pretty stoked! They were like, "OH YEAH, You're the BOMB mom!!"-hehe They didn't really say that, but I'm certain they were thinking it!

Mani and Poli have being so committed to going to the GYM every night. I'm so proud of them!

Noa's doing GREAT in school. He said he had a "new" teacher at school today. I asked, "Why?". He said, "because Mrs. Rodas (his teacher) had to take students out in to the hall one by one to read THREE books". He said he did a good job, I'm so proud of him :)

Tui's hair got chopped off, that's pretty much all that's been going on in her life. hehe I flat ironed it today and BOY did it reveal all the 'mistakes' I made when I chopped it off!! But it's still cute :)

Popo is growing like a weed!! And so is that mouth of his! LOL It makes me sad to think that Popo could actually be my last baby :*(

And Rina...hmmm what have I been up to? Honestly, the last couple of days I've been feeling down. Not like depressed or anything like that, just doubting myself, regarding the whole "photography" thing. I know Berta is rolling her eyes reading this post!! LOL But it's true! I guess it's normal to have those doubts at one time or another, right? I sure hope so! But I told myself to GET OVER IT and keep trying! So I'm back on track and still excited as ever, reseraching, learning, reading, soaking up all that I can about photography. Yay!

Oh yeah, I also went in to take tests for the 911 dispatcher position...oh boy was it crazy! There were 12 different tests ranging from spelling to memory to data entry...and multi tasking is most definitely key!

This weekend is going to be fun. My niece Allie is turning ONE and we're having a big party for her! Can't wait :) I'm also planning on taking Poli's kids' pics again, because last weekend was such a bust (due to the grrrreat Utah weather). And then of course, it's Super Bowl Sunday!!! HOLLAHHH And church gets out JUST in time for it :) BTW, who's playing in the bowl?? LMBO

luvluvluv,
Rina

iPod and Nemo....a mom's best friend :)

2009-01-27T19:28:00.014-07:00

Today Popo was a little cranky and didn't know what to do with himself. It was way after his normal nap time and the kid was still awake (hence the crankiness?!) and running around like a chicken with its head cut off. So, I ran and grabbed our iPod, a pillow and a blanket...laid Popo down and turned Nemo on, via the iPod...he loved it! And...fell asleep watching Nemo on the iPod...do I feel guilty? Am I horrible mom? HECK NO! Quite the opposite if I do say so myself. A little Nemo never hurt nobody! LOL

Check him out :)

Here he is watching Nemo....

And then BAM! The boy is out like trout :) Ahhhhh, the part of the day I like forward to-hehe

Oh yeah, and here's my pic of the day...isn't he handsome?

Love,
Rina

"You know I love you...right?"

2009-01-26T19:28:00.025-07:00

Those were the words my Bubba (Noa) said, as I was being attacked by Zombies while he crouched in the corner of a dark room...too afraid to move! No this wasn't a dream, it's a game that Poli let us borrow and Bubba and I are absolutely hooked! I'm too ashamed to tell you just how hooked I am, you might question my parenting, more importantly, mothering skills :)

Anyway, in this game you play as the "Survivors" and you kill all the evil zombies while going through different stages/levels. It's amazing! I swear this game can get my heart rate up in NO time...screw the tread mill, I say! I'm getting side tracked...so Noa will only play this game if me or Mani plays with him (and Noa and I both agree that Mani sucks, so we don't like playing with him! Honesty is key in this family!). So at one point in the game, I get BOMBARDED by gross, deseased, infected zombies and Bubba runs away and hides in a shack close by and turns his flash light off so that he won't attract any zombies (more specifically, the zombies that are killing his mother-lol). So I'm hollaring at him saying, "Get over here and shoot them!". But he is too scared, I know he feels bad and he turns to me and says, "You know I love you...right?", melt my heart!!!!!! My baby is getting SOOOOOOOOOOO mature (for a 5 almost SIX year old-hehe). I seriously had to fight back the tears that were forming in the corners of my eyes, I didn't want my Bubba to see me getting all mushy and gushy eyed (ok let's be honest, I didn't want any distraction for fear that the zombies would corner me again-lol).

I love my Noa and I hope he NEVER gets too old to play zombie games with me :-)

I did some "couponing" today :)

2009-01-23T17:22:00.000-07:00

I know I've only started collecting coupons for ONE week now, but I have gone couponing TWICE since starting. Ok, the first time I went to Macey's for some Cereal...however, I'm a dummie and didn't read the coupon right so I ended up paying a little more than what I anticipated. BUT! I still saved over 50% on the cereal, so there! hehe

Today, I went to do some grocery shopping and decided to use my coupons again...this time I bought SIX bags of Quaker Quakes and after my coupons they were FUH-REE!!! Not just "free", FUH-REE!!! lol I had never tasted a Quaker Quake in my life, but Mani said he likes the caramel ones...and boy are they good!

I was going to take a picture of all of my bags of Quaker Quakes, but we started eating them already-hehe I can't wait until my coupon stash gets bigger so that I can save even more!!

Love,
Rina

Exciting times and an announcement!

2009-01-22T13:07:00.003-07:00

You are looking at the new PROUD owner of Rina Lasi Photography. AND I have finally started a photo blog! Not only that, but I have my own domain name(rinalasiphotography{dot}com...how cool is that?)! HUGE thanks to my BIL {Jon} who hooked a sistah up! Thanks JB, love you :)

Anyway, you'll notice that to the left of your screen (look up!) you'll see new links to my portfolio, my blog (it's temporary, because my permanent blog is under construction) as well as my FIRST photo offer, my "Foot in the Door" special. Please click here for more details on that!

Yes, these are most definitely exciting times. I hope all of you, my family and close friends, will help me expand my portfolio by allowing me to take your pictures :) So hollah at ya girl!

luvluvluv,
rina

Cause: The Photo Effect: This Photo

2009-01-20T21:30:00.001-07:00

So Berta send me some pictures of her wedding and I could not help but long for Tui's lil' locks when she was a baby :) Therefore, I chopped her hair (in half)-lol I love and Tui loves it...so I would say it was a success! This pictures doesn't nearly give it justice...but what ya gonna do?

Love,
Rina

Project 365

2009-01-20T20:04:00.000-07:00

This last weekend was fun. J n B (Jon and Bert) decided, spur of the moment, to come down to my neck of the woods to spend the night. How excited was I?! Also, Noa did not cry about going to bed this entire last week, we were so proud of him and decided we should do something fun for him. So Mani took Noa and Iuli to the Nickelcade (as well as little miss Tui). They had A BLAST! They did this while I took Kailei and Mariana on their little shoot.

Anyway, on to my 365 picture:

Today I was hanging out with Nat and Meg for a little bit and we got some awesome free stuff due to the cosmetic civil suit against the major department stores. I got some COCO Chanel Body Lotion (it smells soooooooooooo yummy!) and some VERA WANG "Princess" Body 'shine' lol. It's just Body Wash-hehe. But the Vera Wang smells so heavenly I love it!

I had fun hanging out with the girls for a little bit today...they make me laugh :)

Happy Tuesday!

Love,

Rina

Kailei and Mariana

2009-01-17T18:34:00.005-07:00

Introducing Kailei Asalele Selina Peters, my oldest niece and the oldest granddaughter on our side of the family. She will be turning 13 this summer as well as entering in to Kailei is the reason my being spoiled for Christmas came to a complete (and I mean COMPLETE) stop! There are fewer years between Kailei and I, and Teri and I. So, Kailei is pretty much like a little sister to me. I like to think I was a huge help in raising her. I remember I used to torment her when she was a baby...hehe I was just jealous of her. But I'm glad we're close and that she feels comfortable to talk to me about anything. Kailei is a beautiful and sweet girl.

And who is this gorgeous girl? This is Kailei's little sister, Mariana Kaloline Peters, BKA "Nana". She is turning 12 this summer and is also entering Junior High this year. Nana is super hyper and caught our "stuck on myself" gene. LOL Like Kailei, Nana is like a little sister to me. However, I didn't torment Nana like I did Kailei :) Nana makes me laugh all the time and she's very very good with the kids.

I had to end this post with the above picture. The girls most definitely had the closest relationship with my mom, their grandma. This one is our favorite one from our little shoot. This one is for you mom!

Love,
Rina

"One of these things is not like the other"

2009-01-16T00:15:00.001-07:00

That's what I decided to name my 365 picture :) Can you guess which one it is? hehe Anyway, tonight was so fun. A few girl cousins, a couple Aunties and my MIL came over for our coupon party hosted by the lovely Kuuipo from Grocery Smarts. Seriously, if you guys want to save money by learning how to get the most out of couponing, please PLEASE contact Ku'uipo. She was so sweet and very informative. I admit, I was worried how this would actually turn out, but I would recommend to EVERYONE out there! The classes she offers are COMPLETELY free! Anyway I'm just really glad I learned how to coupon and I'm way excited to start! Thanks Ku'uipo!

Love,

Rina

Project 365...well that's what I'm hoping?!

2009-01-14T20:05:00.003-07:00

Ok so I'm getting started a little late in the game for the 365 project. If you don't know what that is, it's just where you take a picture every single day of the year and blog about it (well I don't know if you have to blog about it). Anyway here's my picture for today:

My sweet baby boy. I'm going to try to do this 365 thing, but just for fun. If you're interested in knowing more about this project, you should google it and see what others are doing. I love Google.

I'm also hoping that this will help me to improve my photography skills...wish me luck!

Love,
rina

A great day for a bike ride!

2009-01-14T19:55:00.000-07:00

Today was fun, the kids and I went outside so they could ride their bikes and so that I could take some candid pictures! Popo was so fun to watch, he got his first bike for Christmas and he's been riding around the house but this was the first time he got to ride it outside. Boy he took off!

I'm so glad I captured the memory in the picture below. I finally caught Popo not only sucking his thumb, but also holding on to Tui's hair. That's his ultimate comfort "thing". It's sooo cute!

I'm hosting a Grocery Smarts class tomorrow night! I can't freakin' wait! I seriously need to save money in any way possible :) I'll let y'all know how it goes.

Love,
Rina

Tuiselina, my very first client!

2009-01-09T20:01:00.001-07:00

Tuiselina was my first practice photo session. She was very excited (as was I)! We just went over to her grandma's backyard (it's HUGE!) and took some photos in the snow. Anyway, I hope these turn out non-pixely (is that a word?) lol.

Enjoy! Let me know what you think ;O)

Love,

{me}

PS Click on the images to make 'em larger than life! hehe

I will not be intimidated!

2009-01-09T19:37:00.001-07:00

I don't talk about it a whole lot, but I am obsessed with photography. Not only that, but I'm also obsessed with the idea of possibly becoming a photographer. I look at all of these different photo blogs and I'm so intrigued by how talented these photographers are and how beautiful their pictures are. I, of course, was like, "I can't do that, but I really really want to!". The idea of being able to practice this art of photography, really got me excited. But of course, I kept getting in the way of myself.

I came acrossed this post on Naomi Masina's blog and it really hit home with me. Someone once told her that "many of us will choose UNHAPPINES over UNCERTAINTY". That was truly the case with me, I wasn't sure if it was going to even be remotely possible to become a professional photographer, so I got scared and the cycle continues that way. But after reading Omi's post about this, it really occured to me that I would fully regret not trying.

With THAT (allll of that-lol) said, I'm going to commit myself to practicing my (little) photography skills and maybe I can get good enough to do what I love and what I get so excited over, as a profession. Of course I know I can't snap my fingers and be the baddest photographer out there, but I will definitely try my hardest to learn everything I can to be the best that I can.

Wish me luck!

{rina}

Tagged! Random post about {me}...

2009-01-09T10:27:00.003-07:00

1. Link this post to the person who tagged you: Kiki Fangupo
Post the rules on your blog (SEE!)
3. List 6 random things about yourself.
4. Tag 6 people at the end of your post.
5. Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.

Here are the 6 {random} things about me!

I'm afraid of the dark, and I must sleep on the side of the bed that is FURTHEST from the door.

I love Alloy. Just got some cute shoes for $10 there!

I love online tutorials, I could sit for hours learning all kinds of things online (thank goodness for the World Wide Web!)

One of my pet peevs is when people don't use "they're", "their" and/or "there" correctly. Drives me crazy!

I'm oh so Illegally Blind!

I'm a reality show junkie! From Property Virgins to Real Chance at Love :) I know, so lame.

I tag: Rachel, Heather, Jen, Sue, Pua and Leilia.

Thanks Kiki! That was fun :)

HomelessRoomless child?

2009-01-07T16:51:00.000-07:00

(First things first, no I didn't have an affair with the cookie dough...we didn't even meet. So there!)

Popo didn't know what or where he wanted to sleep last night. I swear he went through all of our rooms/floors. After trying out everyone's "crib" he decided at the moment that the floor in the hallway was just fine! It was the cutest thing. I felt guilty as if he thought we didn't want him to sleep with us, but when I called him, he just ignored me :) He stayed there for at least 20 minutes, I thought he was sleeping. He finally dragged his blankey back in to my bed and snuggled against me. And of course, he was sucking his thumb on his right hand and his left hand was in my hair. He has this thing with hair, when he wants to be soothed, he wants hair. He is now starting to ask me for my hair. He loooved it when I straightened my hair, because it was down most of the time. But now that it's back to curly, I usually fa'a paku it (have it up in a bun). So now he says "Mommy, hair...peeeeeees" (that's how he says 'please'-lol). Too cute, I so need to get a picture of him doing that. I say "so" a lot don't I? Oh well.

Love,

me!

Chocolate Chip Cookies PRETTY PLEASE?!

2009-01-06T18:10:00.000-07:00

So most of my siblings along with a few other family members are having this weight loss competition this year. Can I just tell you that I'm starting to feel the longing for "bad" food? I'm so tempted to go and make a batch of warm, soft, sweet, buttery, chocolatey, Chocolate Chip Cookies..RIGHT NOW!

I'm so sick of counting calories and all that jazz. However, I'm very very proud of my husband who is most definitely my inspiration. I swear, once that man decides to do something, he does it. Me on the other hand, that is so not the case. Yeah I'm eating better, watching my portions, but come on...I'm definitely thinking of having an affair with the cookie dough!! What the CRAP?!?!

Oh well, I don't want to let my hubby down and most definitely not myself. I've lost 7 pounds since we started...but seriously, one or two cookies? Would it ruin it all??

Gotta go! (I'll let you know whether or not I made and ate the cookies tomorrow-pray for me!)

7

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NICK! (As well as a little about my dinner with 3 generations of Bailey's)

2009-01-05T18:12:00.000-07:00

So, it's my little brother's birthday today. Nicholas Albert Peters, he turned 22? I'm pretty sure it's 22 because when he went to Vegas after dad's funeral, he was excited about being "legal"...VEGAS legal-lol. Gosh, I can't believe how grown up my little siblings are becoming. *Correction* I should be saying how "old" they're becoming, not grown up, because they're far from grown up. HAHA JUST KIDDING! Of course you're grown up, living with mom, "working" for dad, driving mom's car, eating her food...BWAHAHAHA Nah nah nah, you know I love you! :O) Anyway, I wish I could call Samoa to wish you a happy birthday personally, Nichole, but a blog shout out is 10x better, right? I mean, it lasts FOOOOOOOOOOOOREVERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR. You're grandkids are gonna be reading this and laughing at this post. With that said, HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! I love you!

Ok now on to part dos of this post. I totally forgot to blog on Saturday (freck!) and Saturday was fun. Grandma Saunders (Mani's Grandma on his Mom's side) was in town and so my MIL, Grandma Saunders, and all of my sisters-in-law and myself went out to lunch! Grandma treated (so sweet) as a Christmas Gift to all of us-Thanks Grandma Saunders! We went to Los Hermanos (no shocker there-lol) my SIL's and MIL LOOOOVE Los Hermanos. Me? Not so much, but I was not mad at kickin' it with some of my fav girls!! It was pretty cool to see three generations of Bailey women. They're all very sweet and I love them so much.

Can't wait to do it again!

Ok I think that's it :)

Love,

Midnight Madness

2009-01-04T21:23:00.000-07:00

So yesterday I got ready for bed early (9:30pm - wayyy early for us!) and got the kids ready for bed, said prayer...the whole 9 and I even let Noa and Tui lay in bed with me for a little bit, Mani was finishing up a show on his iPod.

A little over 2 hours later I wake up, no one was in bed with me, not even Mani. Then I hear Popo talking out in the front. This kinda freaked me out because I thought EVERYONE was asleep! I go outside only to find ALL of them AWAKE and watching TV, just chillin'!! Oh boy was I mad! So I went back to bed, but wasn't able to fall asleep. Eventually Mani came to bed and the kids went to bed, but I was awake...annoyed to no end! I knew I wasn't going to be able to go to bed easily, so I went in the front and was up until 3 in the freakin' morning!!

Anyway, I'm over it now (24 hours later-HAHA). We went to FHE at Aunty Lasi's. We do it on the first Sunday of every month. David and Sue were in charge of it, and Sue made the bestest soup ever. It was soooo what we needed in this 12 degree weather :) Even my kids (the pickiest eaters of all) loved it, Popo especially. We also had some wheat french bread, which was a first for all of us...and it was sooo good! It was funny because Po and Meg had bought it, but it was totally by accident. Oh yeah, Aunty Lasi made some lumpias (her specialty).

David gave the lesson, it was about listening to the Prophets...even when it's something simple...or most of the times it's simple?? Oh man, I suck at really really paying attention :) It was a good lesson though...someone with leprosy was in it, and someone told him to bathe in the River Jordan 7 times and the leprosy guy was upset with this because he thought it was too easy. Do you guys get where I'm going with this? LOL I'm horrible with words...oh well. Good job Davey!

Hmmmm what else...we talked about the importance of having a plan in the even of an emergency. Kinda like an evacuation plan. We also talked about food storage, 72 hour kits and other things. This is the normal stuff we have talked about before. But this year, we're going to put it into action! Megan's going to talk to the canning peep's and reserve a canning thingy for us and we'll get together as a family and can stuff.

I had a good day today, but it I could've made it better. Looking forward to tomorrow :)

Love,
me

Sister, Sister...sister, sister, sister sistersister

2009-01-02T22:54:00.004-07:00

LOL@my title. But I was a just a little excited that I got to speak with all but one of my sisters today! Teri in Samoa, Lini in Las Vegas and Berta in Logan. The only thing that would've made speaking to each of them better, would be to have been able to speak to them all at once in a conference call. Something we're pretty famous for and absolute hate being left out of-hehe. Gosh I miss them all so much, our lives are so different right now.

Speaking of the chunky devil...I'm talking to Berta RIGHT now! She called as I was writing this post (I'm freakin' multi-talented).

Anyway, she hung up, I forgot what I was going to say...OH YEAH! Berta just told me that someone opened up a Nothing Bundt Cakes in Sandy. It was seriously my dream, a couple years ago, to open up a Nothing Bundt Cakes store in Utah. I'm soooo jealous, but happy that I don't have to wait until I go to Vegas to get one-hehe.

I made some stuff for my Etsy store, which I plan to open at the end of the month *pray for me!* lol.

Ok, nothing else to say for now...

luvluvluv,
me

Tagg'd by Pua! (Sorry so late)

2009-01-01T23:15:00.002-07:00

Ok, so when I redid my blog, I totally forgot to add a close friend {Pua} to my blog roll!! Sorry girl and thanks for the tag :)

4 Things I Did Today
1. Played Left 4 Dead
2. Ate Pizza
3. Updated my "other" blog
4. Snuggled with all my babies!

4 Things on My To-Do List
1. Digital designs
2. Make a Chore Chart
3. Find a Job - ew
4. Take a family picture

4 Guilty Pleasures
1. Xbox
2. Blogs
3. PhotoShop
4. Etsy

4 Random Facts
1. I'm afraid of the dark
2. I have an OCD thingy that I will NEVER share with the world (only my hubby knows what it is and I've only told him ONCE before so I doubt he even remembers)
3. I'm a reality TV junkie
4. I did not vote for Obama-lol

Thanks Pua! And now I tag everyone who comes across this post :)

Happy Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T22:47:00.000-07:00

It's the first day of 2009 and I just feel different :) A good different, although there's been so many things running through my mind it's kinda driving me crazy! But nonetheless, a good GOOD first day of 2009.

Last night was F U N! We bought some junk food and played Candy Land and Dora Memory with the kids. The kids were so excited that we were actually playing with them-lol. I had fun too, it made me smile just seeing them so happy. And dang, they're freakin' good at memory!! lol

We also let them light one morning glory. It was FUHREEZING outside, so that's all we could handle :O) The kids went to bed a few minutes after midnight and then Mani and I stayed up to play Left for Dead. A really freaky game, especially playing it at night AND especially when playing it at night ALONE (stinky Mani fell asleep!).

It was a good way to end the old year and welcome the new year...

Love,
7

Fare thee well, '08!

2008-12-31T16:16:00.000-07:00

I can't say I'm sad to see this last year be over. I will always remember the events of 2008, and I'm greatful for everything that has happened...after all we are never put through a trial that the Lord knows we can not pass. It's not like taking the driving test, the Lord does NOT set you up to fail :) And thank goodness for that!

When I think about it, the trials I have been through this past year were most definitely hard...and that's totally an understatement. However, I can't help but kinda be proud and pat myself on the back, knowing that it takes one strong person to get through the things I went through this past year. For the Lord to see me as that strong of a person and know that I can make it through, it's very humbling. Unfortunately, I haven't been fair to the Lord this year and I haven't put my absolute faith in him as he has in me. But, there's no sense in dwelling, right? You gotta push on and choose your attitude. This year that's pretty much going to be my motto, "YOU CHOOSE YOUR ATTITUDE" point blank.

I'm definitely going to do a lot of growing up this year. I'm blessed to have such an awesome husband and family. The love and support they all show me/us is overwhelming and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

SO...fare thee well, '08, you've been pretty brutal to me, but it's all out of love right? hehe

{rina}

If you love someone, you should hug them!

2008-12-30T15:21:00.001-07:00

Loki told this story at our dad's funeral service:

Dad: "Loki, don't you love me?"

Loki: "Of course I do."

Dad: "Then why don't you hug me? You don't ever hug me and it hurts my feelings."

Loki: ...a few minutes pass by...

Loki: "Dad?"

Dad: "Yes?"

Loki: "Do you love your truck?"

Dad: "Well, yeah...?"

Loki: "Well then why don't you hug your truck?"

*both of them start laughing*

THE NEXT DAY

As Loki pulls in to work, he sees dad there with a HUGE smile on his face HUGGING his truck! Loki couldn't help but laugh hysterically. When Loki got out of the car dad says, "Alright son, I've been standing here for an HOUR hugging my truck...you owe me a hug now". Loki, still laughing, agreed and they hugged and hugged.

I wish I could find a photo of these two together but I don't have one :( I'm sure someone does. I was so happy to hear this story because it soooo sounds like my dad and Loki. You see, my dad was always the emotional one. My mom called him a "crybaby" in the most respectful way, of course--heh heh. And Loki has always been the exact opposite of emotional. Don't get me wrong, my brother Loki has one of the HUGEST hearts of gold. He just has always been the non-cryer since we were LITTLE! I mean, I remember when he and I would get in to trouble and my mom would get out the spoon (y'all know what I'm talkin' about!) and she'd smack my hand and I'd cry (drama) and she'd smack Loki's hand and he'd LAUGH...as if it tickled!! At first my mom would be upset and then she'd ALWAYS start laughing herself and I'm still there in the background crying...hehe

I love Loki so much and I thank him for telling that story. I can totally see my dad standing there hugging his truck. Too cute.

Love,

Rina

PS The moral of the story? Hug everyone you love as much as possible :)

Bring it on 2009!

2008-12-29T21:45:00.003-07:00

As we are gearing up for this New Year, I get more and more excited! I have already started (like 2 weeks ago) thinking about my New Year's resolutions and how I really want this year to go, speaking about ALL aspects of my life (Spiitual, Family, Personal, Physical and even Financial).

This past weekend, Berta and Jonathan spend the night on Saturday and hung out all day on Sunday. Therefore, Berta and I were able to write down, or start writing down, our resolutions for 2009. I'm very very excited for this year and a totally new attitude. I hate to admit that I purposely allowed 2008 to pass buy as a blur. But being more optimistic is definitely at the top of my list! I have so many goals and dreams that I am ready to work for this year...it's not overwhelming, more so refreshing!

So bring it on 2009!

Love,
Rina

Pics at the Cemetary

2008-12-28T17:25:00.000-07:00

So we decided to take some pictures while waiting for some of our family to show up to burry Stacey :) I'll post more tomorrow!

Love,
me

My amateur photography :)

2008-12-26T14:21:00.003-07:00

So here are some pictures from our Christmas party with the Deegan's (Aunty Lasi and Uncle Don). You like my amateur photography moments? Hehe I was snapping pics with Bert and Jon's camera, they bought themselves a Canon Rebel xti...pretty darn sweet! Now if only Teri would send me the charger for my camera...lol

Oh yeah, the above picture is of "THE present" hehe. Bert and Jon gave us a flat screen TV!! Yay! We are finally stepping in to the 20th century, good riddens tube television! I will so NOT miss you :) I used Pioneer Woman's "Seventies" action for this photo. I thought it'd be pretty funny to make the photo look like it was taken in the 70s, of a flat screen tv :)

Love,
Rina

A very Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T22:37:00.002-07:00

Merry Christmas!! Today his been very relaxing...the best Christmas present ever :) We woke up before the kids--shocking, I know. But it didn't take much to get them out of their beds, just a nudge and a few words of "Santa came! Santa came!" and they were out of bed running to see what Santa had brought for them. The looks on their faces were priceless, unfortunately, I did not have my camera on me to take ANY pictures to document these memories :(

Anyway I am very thankful for everything. To all of you "Santa's" out there, thank you THANK YOU for allowing me to see the looks on my kids' face as they opened up many presents thanks to you all. I love you with all my heart.

Merry Christmas,
Rina

It's Christmas Eve...

2008-12-24T00:35:00.001-07:00

well technically it is. Lately I have been suffering from insomnia, it really sucks! I also haven't blogged in the last couple of days because on Sunday I found out that my step cousin Stacey passed away. I've been thinking about her a lot these past couple days as well as her family. Stacey is my ~~step~~ mom's niece. (I hate hate the word "step" anything...especially if that's not what they are to you, I just sometimes use it so people don't get confused!). My heart, thoughts and prayers go out to the Brunson family. Stacey was a very extremely special girl...

Merry Christmas Eve everyone
{rina}

My cup runneth over...

2008-12-21T22:57:00.000-07:00

I completely forgot to post yesterday! But then again, maybe I was too busy having so much fun with my family (never a bad thing!). Let's see, Friday night, my mom {Christine}, Elliot, Tia, Oli, Poli and Iuli came over for game night. We ordered the usual, PIZZA, for dinner. I made some Christmas Crunch, which was a H U G E hit! Thank you Amy for posting the recipe :) I also made some "Hello Dolly Bars" AKA "Seven Layer Bars"...which were off da chizzain as well!! I'm so glad I got to bake a couple of treats. I even have stuff for home made oreos from The Smitten Kitchen Blog. Which I will have to make shortly :) Oh yeah! The kids also got to ice some sugar cookies with Aunty Christine-Thanks mom! Anyway, poor mom was in pain because of her stupid contact/eye. It was hurting her way bad so she went home a little early that night.

Saturday was super busy. Mani's niece, Shanny, had her Sweet Sixteen party that day. So Mani and the kids (and Elliot-cheeky boy) went to the party, while I did some shopping for our annual Christmas party with the Deegan's. So Poli picked me up and we went to Target to get our White Elephant gifts. OH MY HECK, Target was N U T S!! 'Tis the season, I guess?! Anyhow, we put on our big girl undies, and charged in to Target! LOL Poli got the game...I can't remember the exact name but it's really fun and when I remember the name I'll post it-hehe. I actually got this family sized, Black & Decker, griddle. It had a pull out drawer to warm things up as well as a pull out drawer for grease drippings!! Best of all?? It was only $20!!! Oh man I was so excited, because our limit was $25 :) SCORE!

We, of course, were late to dinner (Sorry Uncle Don). But when we showed up I swear the food was glowing...it was DELISH!! We had, Turkey, Ham, Meat Balls (in da bomb sauce-one part BBQ sauce to TWO parts grape jelly-TRY IT!), mashed potatoes, yams, rolls, veggie platter, fresh pineapple with and with out li hing mui, stuffing...and I think that's all of it. Oh and let me tell you, Aunty Lasi made this punch that was TO DIE FOR!! I am still dreaming about that liquid goodness :) I can't even explain how amazing it was! Aunty, if you're reading this, PLEASE email the recipe :)

After we ate, we cleaned up and then played our White Elephant game! I ended up with a candle and a candle lighter :) Suzie sketched this portrait of my mom (as her white elephant gift) and when I saw Poli open that wrapping paper to unveil the portrait, I always cried when I saw that it was my mom...it is BEAUTIFUL and Suzie hit it right on the nose! Anyway, Poli didn't have it for very long because Berta stold it from him...I don't blame her! But I will be bugging Sue about getting a copy--hehe Love you Sue, thank you again for doing that, it means SO much to all of us :) Uncle Don stole my griddle (stinky!) hehe. Oh well I'll just have to go back and get one for myself!

After we opened White Elephant gifts, we practiced a few hymns/Christmas Carols and we went around Uncle and Aunty's ward and sang for mostly the elderly and our last stop was at the Bishop's! It was fun!

I love my family so much and this party was once again a huge success! But then again, you can't go wrong with great food and even better funny. Thank you Aunty and Uncle for always opening your home to us. I love you so much for everything!

Love,
Rina

P.S. I promise to post pics soon :)

Noa's First School Christmas Party!

2008-12-19T14:31:00.000-07:00

Here are Tina, Noa and Iuli playing during recess

Me and Noa patiently waiting for our table to be called to pick our treats to decorate Noa's Gingerbread house.

The foundation :)

So this is what we were working with

Oh snap! Who's that hot lady right thurr...hehe

My sis Meg and Iuli

Noa, demonstrating how to stick candy corn on to your "house". Sure you would normally lay the candy corn flat...but you're probably just not cool like us to make them stick out...HAHAHA

And here it is one side...

And another one...

Oh snap! Check the angle on that Candy Cane...the Lego's are "windows" per Noa.

Great job son!

You go Tina!

Iulers is too cute...great house!

As you can see, we had so much fun at Mrs. Rodas' Christmas Party. Noa had been bugging me all week about this party and making me promise every five minutes that I would be there. I would not have missed it for the world! I came really close to missing it though, due to the fact that I have been suffering from insomnia lately {for real}. BUT I am soooo glad that I got to go. Noa was excited that I was there and showing me around his classroom. Even better, I got to hang out with my nephew Iuli and niece Tina...HELLO, it couldn't get ANY better :) Ok I lie, it was even BETTER because I got to hang out with my girls, Meg and Nat.

Merry Christmas y'all!

Rina

First they're {sour} than they're {sweet}

2008-12-18T10:53:00.000-07:00

Have you ever seen that Sour Patch Kids commercial? (If not, never fear, I have posted the video below--for your viewing pleasure LOL). Well last Saturday my nephew Iuli BKA Iulers cut his little cousins, girl cousin, hair! We're not talkin' a little trim...the boy cut one of her PONY TAILS straight off!! Then jacked up the other one!! Oh boy was he ever in trouble...hehe But kids will be kids, right?

When his mother came to my house, she told us what had happened. The FIRST thing that came to my mind was the Sour Patch Kids commercial, I could not believe it!! I was L'ingOL all day just thinking about it. Yes, it's cruel, the poor girl...but good thing her mom wasn't trippin'...cause I would be hecka trippin'!!!

Anyway...here's Iuli...

Love,
Rina

PS This one is especially for you R-Foo!

Christmas isn't all {red} & {green}...

2008-12-16T12:54:00.001-07:00

Ok so this is Rachel and her family. Rachel didn't want anything to do with the typical "Red and Green" Christmas colors. Sooooo this is what I came up with :) I made the photo Black & White because their outfits are so not coordinated...(It's all good, this was an impromptu shoot looking at the Christmas lights on Temple Square). The snowflake paper is from Julie and Lauren at Little Dreamer Designs. The grey paper is from Shabby Princess. The swirls and paint splatters are from PSDTUTS Freebies. The fonts are Lainie Day SH ("Merry Christmas"), Texas Hero ("Love") and Print Clearly ("From our home to yours" and "Allie, Rachel and Greg"). Ok I think I've covered all the credits (dont' wanna get in trouble for not giving any props to the designers of the actual elements I used for these cards---YAWN!).

I looove this card, I think it's my fav!

Love,
me

Blog post from dad

2008-12-16T12:09:00.000-07:00

"I'm so blessed...

today is monday, april 7th 2008 and i'm chatting online with two of the most beautiful women that any man is blessed with..one lives in Logan, UT and the other lives in Orem, UT. I love them so much and wish they were closer so I tell them that everyday that I have left in this world. They mean so much to me and I'm proud to be their dad!

Posted by Iuli Albert Thomas Peters at 4:11 PM"

In case you're wondering, I'm the one in Orem and Berta is the one in Logan and YES we are two of the most BEAUTIFUL women...LOL I miss you dad!

{7}

How much is enough?

2008-12-15T20:34:00.000-07:00

Today was uneventful, to say the least. I didn't do much of anything, I didn't even clean my house (shame on me). Oh well, I'm over it. Anyway, on days like these I find myself reading random blogs that I found through a friend of a friend of a friend of a friend. So I just read a couple of posts on this one blog that spoke about "dark skinned palagi's" and "Samoan-Americans". The first post was basically about how some Samoans are shame to be Samoan. The second post being about some Samoans who were born and raised out side of Samoa and how hard it can be to be Samoan in America...well something along those lines.

I was born in Hawaii and only been to Samoa twice and both times I lived there for a year. I was teased all the time while I lived in Samoa for being "fia palagi". For those of you who don't know fia palagi means "Wanna be White person". The funny thing is I didn't do or say anything for them to accuse me of wanting to be "fia palagi". If anything, I was saying and doing ANYTHING, to try to fit in. The only reason that I could think of, for them to be teasing me this way, was because I was from "The States". So that automatically classified me as being "fia palagi"...well something I so did not have control over, right? LOL Another HUGE no-no about me was the fact that I didn't speak Samoan...apparently that somehow makes me LESS Samoan than those who speak it. That has got to be the BIGGEST load of CRAP I've ever heard. I remember getting no higher than a D in Samoan Studies because I couldn't speak Samoan. I aced every test, every pop quiz, every exam while taking Samoan Studies....I even performed the Kava ceremony with flying colors (Don't ask me to repeat-lol), yet to no avail. I'm so sick and tired of people telling me that I don't act Samoan enough or that I'm "fia palagi" just because I choose not to go to a Samoan Ward or go to Fiji concerts or Poly Flag Days or because I don't like fasi povi or pisupo or what have you. I'm so sick of people choosing FOR ME how much is enough.

No I don't live "Fa'a Samoa" balls out, but that doesn't make me less Samoan. No I don't like Cricket and that doesn't make me any less Samoan. Yes I DO flat iron my hair, yes I DO like to wear shoes with 3+ inch heels BUT I also like my basketball shorts and flip flops, don't get it twisted.

I think people are too worried about how Samoan or American we are when the point is, are we being true to ourselves? I am true to myself and happiest that way. Let's stop trying to get our children to find the right "balance" between being Samoan and American. Let's start concentrating on helping them live to their fullest potential and let's keep beating it in to their heads that they can be anything they want to be, instead of just beating them up :) Don't get me wrong, I'm all for a firm hand! LOL

peace out,
Rina

One of my guilty pleasures...

2008-12-14T14:17:00.000-07:00

Photoshop Actions! With a click of a button, you can have some of the raddest photos :) My fav actions are from The Pioneer Woman. I like her 1st set way better than the 2nd set, but I think that's because her 2nd set of actions are for particular pictures (which I don't have). Anyway I wanted to share some of my fav actions with you below so you can see for yourself how AWESOME they are! By the way, the picture I'm using was taken by my cousin

SOOC Lovely & Ethereal Action (looks dreamy)

SOOC PW's Black & White

SOOC Soft & Faded

SOOC Boost Action

SOOC Seventies Action (cool!)

SOOC Colorized

SOOC Sunshine

SOOC Sepia

So those are some of the ones I use the most :) Anyway, as PW says, Actions are great, but they can tend te be "crutches". That's so total me she's talking about! LOL

Love,

Lisa and Shanny's Christmas Card

2008-12-12T19:07:00.000-07:00

This is Lisa and her daughter Shanny Myrick. Lisa is another one of Mani's sisters. Lisa and Shanny are so much fun to be around and I miss them T O O much! I haven't seen these guys in forever :( Anyway, it was a pleasure putting this card together for them (minus Mani's 2 cents every 2 seconds! LOL Nah!). I hope they like it as much as I do. Credits:Paper & Holly (thing?) are from Shabby Princess. The font for "JOY" is Byington Regular and the other font is Lainie Day SH.

I hope you guys like it!

Love,
7

{Jen's} Christmas Cards

2008-12-12T14:05:00.000-07:00

This is my SIL's, Jen, Christmas Card that I put together. It was kind of a challenge because the oldest 2 children are not in the family picture. So I had to come up with a way to incorporate them in to the card, but not make it look...weird?! This was harder than I thought! After many different changes, I finally decided on putting their cute little faces in ornaments. Everything (The digi paper, ornaments, snowflake stamps) are from Shabby Princess. As for the fonts, the script font is Lainie Day, and the other font is Pea Times New Camileon.

Can't wait to see it on paper!

Love,

Happy Birthday B!!

2008-12-11T20:09:00.000-07:00

Ok, can I just be the worst sister ever? Last night as a million thoughts were running through my mind, I realized, I had not done a "Blogger" shout out to my homie. On December 3rd, Berta turned....nah, I won't post her age :) But it was her birthday and things were still crazy at the time so I didn't even call her!!! I am such a J E R K!

Berta has many nick names (B, Al-b, B-ya, Alboogy, Bert,Bert Wert, Junior) and the list goes on! Berta is awesome people, she is the one person that I can be 100 billion percent myself. I remember when Berta first got married, I HATED calling her! Why? Because it always seemed like she couldn't talk. That took a lot of getting used to for me...Berta didn't have time for me?? WHAT??? LOL Because of this {and my psychoness} it caused me to not like her hubby Jon (sorry JB!). I would call my dad and cry to him that Berta didn't love me any more because she didn't ever want to talk to me. And of course being the best dad that he is, he would do some investigating. Anyway, I got over my brattyness and realized that B had her own life and I just had to deal. Almost 4 years later, our relationship couldn't be any better AND I LOVE JON!!!! He's by BBILF {go figga!}! But then again, it was between him and the one we don't speak of {lol}.

Anyways B, I love you so much and thank you for being (one of) my {BSF}'s and for always being there for me no matter what kind of rediculous drama I'm going through (ie, wanting to divorce Mani every other week--heehee---luh u babe!). Thank you for always putting up with my bratty bi-polar butt! Thank you for being a great Aunty to my kids (and you too Jon!) and for spoiling our family as a whole. I wish we lived closer together :(

I L O V E U!

~me

PS Your LO will be coming out shortly :)

I {heart} Etsy.com!

2008-12-09T17:18:00.000-07:00

As most of you may know, I love Etsy. So much, that I'm on there at LEAST once a day and I've devided to start "bookmarking" my fav finds on my Blog. I figure it's easier that way then to scroll through my ever growing bookmark list on Firefox. So here are some of my fav finds for today!

IDK why, but I fell in love with this art work as soon as I saw it. This piece of art work come from Krisblues's Shop. This persons got a lot of other cute paintings. You can get a 7x7" print for $20, not too shabby, eh?!

Ok check out this beauty! This is a necklace and it's called "trees trees tress" and I found it in Melissaschmidt's Shop.

Alright folks, there it is, my first edition of Etsy finds...stay tuned for more!

Love,

{me}

my {DRAMA} princess

2008-12-08T20:58:00.001-07:00

Today was pretty uneventuful. We did the normal routine, wake up, eat, watch tv, do homework, eat some more and now I'm blogging :) Mani and Poli went to the gym tonight, they're starting their new diet/work out schedule. GO BOYS! I guess Mani is enforcing the {diet} portion of their plan on all of us. Tonight we had Turkey Hot Dogs with Whole Weat Hot Dog Buns...yeah, not my fav!

Anyway on to my funny story for the day...Tui was playing on Barbie today and after a while (like 30 mins) I told her she had to give Noa a turn. She was not having it! She whined and complained and kept complaining and whining. Then I heard her start to complain about how her arms were hurting, they were hurting "SOOOO BAD MOM!". I was ignoring her (gotta love my parenting skills--don't hate!). Then I heard her say, "My arms are hurting so bad mom, but they only feel better when I'm playing on the computer!". I had to ~~smile~~ crack up at that comment. My baby girl is such a drama queen! It totally reminded me of when Kailei and Mariana (my oldest nieces) were little, they had energy like there was no tomorrow. BUT that was only if they didn't have to clean up! As soon as their dad started hollaring at them to do their chores we would hear them say, "But daaaad I have a tummy ache!". Haha Kids are so funny :) Needless to say, Tuiselina survived this incident and her arms didn't fall off due to lack of computer contact....maybe next time drama queen.

(Do NOT let this pretty face fool you!)

Love,

7

Family Home Evening {the EXTENDED version}

2008-12-07T20:47:00.000-07:00

Today was exactly what I needed...R E S T! We stayed up late last night (or this morning I should say) and played games. We didn't get to bed until almost 4am. That's been my routine this last week...but now I'm home and it's so quiet I could CRY!

We've started to have our {extended} FHE today. Which basically means all of the extended family gets together for FHE once a month. Every family takes a turn hosting FHE. We used to do a long time ago, but then stopped. I looooove FHE but especially the {extended} version.

This week Rachel gave the lesson, and her husband Greg was the conductor. Rachel spoke about the importance of not only keeping a journal, but talking about your history with your family (especially children) and then also the importance of being prepared. It was awesome, thanks cuz! With that said, I vow to blog about my day at least once a day...so no more cheating! LOL

It was so good to see the our "Scott" family. Those guys are awesome! (I say "awesome" too much, huh? Oh well). A lot of us met our cousin Sani's husband, Blaine, today for the first time. They got married the same day as my dad's funeral. Blaine is cool people's...LOL He jumped right in to our family {charm} and {humor}. He wasn't shy (which is a biggie in our family, don't be shy!!!!) and he was a good sport, playing all of our goofy made up games-hehe. WELCOME TO DA FAM BLAINE!!

Anyway, these past couple weeks have been filled with all sorts of emotions. In the end, I love my family and {love} was most definitely the theme for our family this last week.

~7

Thanksgiving Week 2008

2008-12-06T22:20:00.000-07:00

Hang on to your seats, I will be recapping on the entire week!

Everyone except Loki and Poli, were supposed to arrive in SLC on Monday night (11/24). Unfortunately, the Pago to Honolulu flight was delayed 24 hrs. Anyway, the travel was nuts and lets just leave it at that. By Wednesday morning, everyone was here. We got to see dad at the mortuary, he looked good. Mmmmmm, maybe I should say he looked peaceful. Wednesday was busy, me and Teri ordered ALL of the flowers, we did the food shopping and ran a bunch of errands.

Thanksgiving day, we went out to eat at Golden Corral. We were lucky because they had a room open for all of us (including the entire Deegan clan). We didn't have to wait AT ALL!! The food was just OK but the rolls were off da chaaaaain! LOL After Turkey day, I took a nap while other people played games. Then we met up at Aunty Lasi's house that evening and played games. Which by the way, my cousin Rachel is addicted to Guitar Hero now. She was always such a hater before!!

Friday was busy getting things finalized for the funeral services as well as the family viewing that night. The family viewing went well, although we forgot some of the big pictures of our family. But other than that, it went well. My favorite part was when someone (and I feel really bad calling this person "someone" because it's not just someone, he's related to us. But being the baby of the family I never remember anyone! So sorry to "someone" if you ever come across this blog post!!) got up and spoke a little bit about my dad and then he called his "boys" up and he jumped on the piano while his boys sang the prettiest song EVER!! *Note to self* I need to find out what song that was. And last but not least, we watched a slide show that a family friend made of dad and his family. Of course we were all UGLY crying (no one cries pretty in this family! LOL). Hopefully one day I'll be able to post it on my blog because it was put together really well.

Saturday we had the final funeral service for dad. Everyone spoke except for my baby sis Tia, she played the piano...you know that song on "A Walk to Remember", that Mandy Moore sings in the play?? Yeah, that's the one!! I'll post the song on my blog...it's so prettyful. Oh yeah, Elliot and Oli didn't speak either...they're the 2 youngest of the kids. After the program, we went to the cemetery to bury dad. Putting him in the ground was the hardest. Just like it was for my mom. But we all made it through it, I'm so proud of everyone!

Only Hope-Piano- Mandy Moore

Sunday we just got together to eat and play games (go figure, do ever do anything else??? NO!).

Monday is when people started leaving.

Tuesday Lini and Ella left.

Wednesday...I slept over at Rachel's with Teri.

Thursday, my brother's slept over.

Friday, we had game night with mom and all us kids. We played Pit, Mystical (or something like that), First Hand, Blink, Clue, Monopoly, Chitty Chitty bang bang, animal, murder in the dark (a couple versions) and yahtzee (BOO). We're such a competative family, it's ALWAYS fun for us!

Anyway, in the end I'm W I P E D out for real! I'm definitely going to miss all the noise (although I'm sure my neighbors will beg to differ! Oh well go jump!) but I'm ready to get back to life...

Love,
Rina

{Family Pictures}

2008-12-05T13:00:00.000-07:00

We went up to my dad's gravesite on Sunday (the day after we burried him) to take some family pictures. The cemetary he's burried at is {B E A U T I F U L}. The view is amazing and the trees are beautiful. Anyway, I just wanted to share some of the pictures we took while we were up there. Oh yeah, these pics weren't taken with the camera I inherited from my dad :O)

Love,
7

Roller Coaster Ride

2008-12-04T16:36:00.000-07:00

This will be short, but I wanted to assure you all that I am still alive =) I will definitely be back shortly, to blog about everything that's been going on. But for now, enjoy this pic I took of Popo (my baby boy!) using the camera I inherited from my late father.

I had so much fun playing around with the camera (it's so weird to call it my camera). Anyway, the above is one of the few good shots I took. I absolutely {LOVE} my Popo's eyes. I could stare at them ALL day long!

Below is another pic of Popo, just as he got hit over the head with a toy flower-LOL.

I will post a few more pics later. I have so much to talk about, I don't even know where to start!

I have to go now, Oli and Eto are coming over to spend the night. They're my baby brother's and I'm glad I've been able to spend so much time with them (even if they're glued to the Xbox! LOL).

Love,
{me}

Oreo Truffles also known as Little Drops of HEAVEN!

2008-11-23T15:39:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite food bloggers is Bakeralla. If you haven't been by her blog yet, you seriously should! She is so creative! Anyway, I've had my eye on her Oreo Truffles recipe for awhile now. Which by the way, I think the recipe actually originated from
Kraft Foods. I FINALLY made these little pillows of happiness, 2 days ago and I made them again, JUST so I could post about it :O)

I'm a HUGE fan of Oreo's and I remember when I was little (like back in Hawai'i days) they made these "White Fudge dipped Oreos" and I LOOOOOOOVED them!! Well, these Oreo Truffles remind me of those, but way better! I haven't had the time nor have I cared to make them look "pretty" (like MANY of the bloggers out there who HAVE made these sweet things) but dang it they're A M A Z I N G! Who cares what it looks like!

So do like me, and tap in to your inner Bakerella and try these puppies out!

What you'll need:

1 package regular Oreo's (You'll use ALL but SEVEN Oreo's!! This is VERY important).
1 8oz package Cream Cheese
White Chocolate (I used a regular sized bag of White Chocolate Chips, but I've used the blocks of White Chocolate before as well.)
A small bowl to melt chocolate
A spoon with holes in it :)
A piece of wax paper to cover...
A cookie sheet
Oh yeah, AND you'll need a food processor/blender to crush the Oreo's. It's 100x easier to use a food processor rather than a ziplock and rolling pin, to crush the Oreo's. If you don't have a food processor...GO GET ONE! They're seriously not expensive (unless you're trynna be the Next Food Network Star).

Step 1. Throw the Oreo's in the food processor and... Grind it up! You'll want it to be the consistency of sand.

Step 2. After you grind up ALL BUT SEVEN Oreo's (you thought I was joking, eh?), throw the Oreo's in to a bowl (oops forgot to list a bowl for the Oreo's...).

Step 3. Throw your Cream Cheese in to the bowl, get a spoon and mash it all together :) The smell is WINNER!

This is what it looks like after you mix it together. You'll have some streaking, but don't freak out, it will be ok! Ok next step, this picture is not very attractive!

Next step, Roll the dough in to about 1" balls. This really isn't crucial. I mean, mine went from 1/2" to over an 1" and good things these are NO BAKE cause it doesn't really matter what size they are. Hence this picture! LOL

Now throw these sinful delights in to the freezer for about 15 mins to firm up!

Right before you take out the Oreo Balls, throw your chocolate in a bowl and microwave on high for 30 seconds, do about two or three of those intervals. Stir it real good.

Now is the time to deep those bad boys! Get your spoon with holes, throw the Oreo ball in to the melted chocolate, now take your spoon with holes and coat the Oreo ball with the melted chocolate. Then scoop the covered Oreo ball up, tap the spoon on the sides of the bowl a couple times to get the excess chocolate off and then let the Oreo ball roll off of the spoon and on to the Cookie Sheet that should be covered in wax paper! You can either put them BACK in to the freezer to let them set up, but being that I live in freakin' cold Utah, I didn't need to do that. I just let them sit for maybe five minutes, and they were done!

And there you have it kids...Oreo Truffles also known as (to me) Little Drops of Heaven...OR so good it makes you wanna slap your mama...LOL!

Love,

"Where did yo' sister go?"

2008-11-20T15:00:00.000-07:00

And that's how Noa's FIRST joke started. I was doing some scrapbooking and Noa was bouncing on my bed. He stopped, walked over to me and said, "Where did yo' sister go?" (yes he said 'yo'). I said "I don't know??" and he replied, "To yo' MAMA'S house!!...BWAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHA". I couldn't help but giggle. He then asked, "Mom, do you know what a joke is?" and I told him that I did. And then he said, "I love jokes". HEHE

Oh bless his little heart. My bubba got his first report card today...can I just say I am such a proud mama? Noa got ALL 4's (Which means he mastered that subject/skill) and he also got all S's (satisfactory) for other areas like "Obeying class rules", "Being obedient", and things like that. I swear I smiled so big my cheeks started to hurt!

I'm so grateful to have such an awesome kid. Not only is he smart and good looking, but he's FUNNY too! I love you bubba! I am most definitely looking forward to watching him grow up. Every day he never ceases to amaze me with how smart, talented and kind he is. He is such a big helper to all of us and such a respectful kid. I vow to support all of my kids in anything and everything they choose to do. Now, for the sake of my husband, I hope it's football that he chooses to pursue (while in school of course)...BUT if he so happens to choose ballet or to be in the school play, please believe we will be in the front row with blinged out posters cheering him on anyway!

I love you son and thank you for that joke!

A little {bLiNg} never hurt nobody!!

2008-11-19T18:49:00.000-07:00

The bebe is my niece Selinalei, IDK why but I just love this pic! Anyway...here's another Christmas Card, with some added BLING! Because y'all my sis Lini (the baby's momma) LOOOOVES her some bling...I mean keep this lady away from a bedazzler!!! LOLOLOL

Love,
Rina

Christmas Cards...

2008-11-18T17:50:00.000-07:00

So, a few family members know that I am fully in to digital scrapbooking (Ok more so OBSESSED with it!). Last year during the Holidays, I so wanted to create some Christmas Cards. But with the horrible HORRIBLE news of both my parents' health declining, it just was not the right time.

This year I volunteered to create some of my family members' Christmas Cards just for fun! Anyway, I've been playing around with some ideas and wanted to share them with y'all!

This is Landon. He is my nephew on my hubby's side. He is FIVE years old now! LOL

This is my cousin Mariaha and her family. She HATES this picture-lol. I think it's cute. Anyway this is from last year and I like this LO...it just needs something more...and I'm not quite sure what it is!

This is my family, this photo was taken last year during Christmas time. I'm so glad we got to spend time together with pretty much everyone. We were just missing Poli and Loki but Loki flew in Christmas morning :) It was everything I could have asked for!

This is the latest and greatest (in my opinion)! First of all, I love this picture because it has ALL 10 of us kids (would be 11 but my brother Riki passed away in 95) in it. I love love LOVE my siblings so much and this is a RARE opportunity for us ALL to be together. Anyway, secondly, this totally captures us how we usually are...silly, goofy, fia sexy (TIA! LOL) and just all of the above...I don't know how my parents do it!

Ok that's about it...I'll probably be making more because I LOVE DOING IT. It's so therapeutic for me :)

Love,
7

BTW, if you're wanting the credits for everything I used for these cards...it's pretty much ALL Shabby Princess. But if I missed something...I'll let you know!

It is time...

2008-11-17T12:14:00.000-07:00

I am ready to get back in to the normal swing of things. Most of you know that my dad passed away last Thursday. This is something that we have been expecting, but you can NEVER fully prepare yourself for. My dad passed away in American Samoa, with his wife at his side. My sister Teri was also there when it happened and she told me that she and my mom had a great night's sleep the night before. Something they haven't had been able to expereience for months now. They did their normal routine, mom went and dropped the kids off at school and Teri got up and got ready for the day. When mom got home, she checked on dad and told Teri that he didn't look good at all. A couple hours later, my dad took his last breath on this Earth.

My dad was always a jokester. Anyone who knows him can testify to that. It is very surreal that my dad isn't here, physically, any more. I guess it's because I wasn't there when it happened. But I was glad to find out that he looked so peaceful. My dad was in A LOT of pain these past several months. I am so glad that he does not have to be in that horrible pain any more. He will be sorely missed, but I also think about how happy he is to be with my brother, Riki, my mom, Grandpa Peters (my dad's dad) and many more of his family and friends who passed away before him. I know my dad will be looking down on me, just as my mom has been. I have felt both of their presence, since he has passed away and I think about them all the time...especially the memories. I would like to share one of them with you:

It was about a year before I got married, my dad and family came down to Utah for a visit. At the time, I was living in Chicago with Teri and Berta, but flew to Las Vegas and then drove up to Utah with Poli and his family, to see my dad. I don't know what my dad and I were doing that day, but for some reason he picked me up and it was just me and him. I remember telling him "Dad this is such a nice car!". It was a rental, something similar to a Towne Car, very classy and the radio system in their was all pretty and digital. Anyway, as we were driving I decided to change the radio station because my dad was listening to classical music *yawn!*. So I was pressing the "seek" button and when I'd get to the station I wanted, the "tuner" would keep on going and wouldn't stop at the station. I kept trying and trying, but to no avail. Finally, frustrated as ever I say "Dad, what's wrong with this radio!". He looks at me all serious and says "Oh sorry honey, this radio is actually voice activated." I say "What the heck does that mean?". He says, "It only works by speaking to it." The thing about my dad is, not only is he EXTREMELY convincing, but he has a LOVE for electronics and techy stuff, so I didn't think twice about my dad knowing how this thing works. SO if anyone would know about "voice activated" radios, it would be him. I shrug my shoulders and ask him "So what do I say?" and he says, "Just tell the radio what station you want to listen to." Feeling just a little silly, I whisper "94 point 9". And NOTHING happened. I look at my dad and he says "Well say it louder" and so I start shouting at the flippin' radio, "94 POINT 9!" and the radio is going BERZERK! Here I am screaming at the radio, thinking maybe I'm not screaming loud enough. FINALLY my dad couldn't hold it in any more. He starts laughing out loud, he was laughing so hard he started crying. I'm looking at him as if he's lost his mind (funny to think when I'm one yelling at a radio). He's finally able to say, "Oh honey, I've been controlling the radio from the steering wheel all along!". Then he starts cracking up again. I was sooooo mad!!! So mad that I believed him! Later that day we went to grandma and grandpa Jensen's house and I was downstairs and I could hear my dad telling EVERYONE this story of me "shouting at the radio". Everyone thought it was hilarious.

Looking back on that day, I am grateful for those laughs I was able to "share" with my dad. I'd give ANYTHING to hear that laugh just one more time. Even if it is at my expense.

I ♥ you daddy and thank you for being such a clown!

From Movies

An audio clip of Ezra Taft Benson from the 60s

2008-11-12T10:03:00.000-07:00

**DISCLAIMER**If you bring this up in youtube, don't read the comments, they're hateful and will make you want to punch someone's face. If you're like me, you're very protective of our Church Leaders ESPECIALLY our prophets.

Another one brought to you by Tatulu Designs

2008-11-10T09:09:00.000-07:00

So I finally finished Bert's MySpace profile design. I think it's way cute and so does Bert, so I guess that's what matters =) Gosh, sometimes I just have to walk away from the project I'm working on because I start to get so frustrated. Anyway, you can click here for the live version. It's very fall'ish =)

Love,
Rina