Cynde C

My Camera Phone Mosaic - 10-29-2011

2011-10-29T10:06:00.000-05:00

1. It's finally looking like autumn!, 2. A visit to the pumpkin patch..., 3. 2 shots at the doctor's office...and still able to give me a smile. :), 4. Brothers, 5. My 3-year old's favorite drawing, 6. Carlo Ascensión Contreras, 7. Our family is now +1 :), 8. Loving the chocolate in the middle!, 9. Car Seat Ready? CHECK!, 10. Ahhh...nice & clean, 11. Toddler's Bedroom Ready? CHECK!, 12. My lil' Green Lantern

Celebrate National Taco Day with a Free Taco!

2011-10-03T17:58:00.000-05:00

My Camera Phone Mosaic - 09/25/2011

2011-09-26T20:44:00.000-05:00

1. 40th Week, 2. Cousin Angel's 1st Birthday!, 3. My pair of characters :), 4. Class? What class?, 5. His first Oatmeal Creme Pie, 6. My DT Booth, 7. Ready for Battle..., 8. Enjoying his yogurt parfait, 9. My shining knight

10 Free Teacher eBooks at teacherexpress.scholastic.com!

2011-09-16T17:17:00.000-05:00

For one week only, Teacher Express at Scholastic.com is offering Back to School Dollar Deals and with promotion code 10THANKS you can get $10 off...that means getting 10 of these ebooks FREE!!! Offer expires 9/20!

Thanks One Frugal Chick and Deal Seeking Mom!

My Week - Camera Phone Mosaic

2011-09-11T17:13:00.003-05:00

1. My Lovely Sister at 38 Weeks, 2. A Chicago Hot Dog, 3. The Nursery, 4. Tragedy at Steiner Ranch, 5. New Haircut, 6. Deep Dish Pizza, 7. 36 Weeks, 8. 36 Weeks, 9. Happy Birthday to me!

Our 2011 Summer Vacation Photobook

2011-09-07T04:03:00.000-05:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

My first mosaic!

2011-08-27T20:08:00.000-05:00

My personal snake slayer! / Chicken Saltimboca / My son's favorite pasttime / I rolled my own dough!

A visit to the firestation / Our Willow Tree family / Sugar Mama's cupcakes / Sugar Mama's in Austin, TX

Mommy at 32 weeks / Stop taking pictures! / A great breakfast at Pioneer Mill / Just rockin' away

Dream state / He sure does love Tia / I can stay here forever / Hunting Easter eggs

Laurie Dolan's Baby Shower (RGV)

2011-06-25T20:05:00.001-05:00

Nelda, my sister-in-law, and I were so blessed to host nearly thirty guests at my sister's baby shower in Weslaco, TX this past Saturday. At first we weren't at all sure many would come, but lo and behold...our family on my mother's side came through! My sister now lives in Austin and although I live here close by to them, neither of us see them very often and often feel guilty because of it. This shower not only provided a great avenue for a showering of blessings for my sister's growing family, but we were ALL blessed with the opportunity to bridge gaps and catch up with loving family.

After enjoying an afternoon of good food and cake, and games and prizes, we almost immediately made plans to follow up with a family get-together the following day at my mother's only surviving sibling's home nearby. There we enjoyed even MORE great food and fellowship and took lots of pictures while we were at it.

Enjoy my personal album of the shower and the next day's get-together here. A close friend of ours (THANKS DEZ) also took pics at the shower...I'll be hopefully posting those soon as well. :)

Not Yo' Mama's Banana Pudding!!

2010-08-03T19:25:00.000-05:00

This has become a regular in my rotation of desserts that I serve at church gatherings and family get-togethers. Rather than send people over to the great Paula Deen's version on the Food Network's website, I thought I'd post my slightly modified version here along with the link to the original version for all those inquiries I consistently get when people try this wonderful dessert:

Not Yo' Mama's Banana Pudding by Paula Deen
(Cynde's slightly modified version)

Ingredients
1 box of Nilla wafers
4-6 bananas, sliced thinly
2 1/2 cups milk
2 3.4 oz boxes instant French vanilla pudding
1 8oz package cream cheese, softened
1 14oz can sweetened condensed milk
1 8oz container frozen whipped topping thawed

Directions
Line the bottom of a 13 by 9 by 2-inch dish with 1 bag of cookies and layer bananas on top. (I sometimes instead layer ingredients in a trifle bowl)

In a bowl, combine the milk and pudding mix and blend well using a handheld electric mixer. Using another bowl, combine the cream cheese and condensed milk together and mix until smooth. Fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Add the cream cheese mixture to the pudding mixture and stir until well blended. Pour the mixture over the cookies and bananas and line the edges with additional cookies placed upright and a few in the center for added presentation. I also crumble a few into fine crumbs and sprinkle it over the rest of the casserole. Refrigerate until ready to serve. The colder the better!

My modifications don't alter the taste much...they were made simply because some of the size ingredients she asks for are harder to find around here. I've also made a "Dirt Cake" using the same recipe just replacing the Nilla wafer layer with processed Oreo cookies and the vanilla pudding with chocolate fudge flavored pudding! YUM!

I'll post a picture as soon as I can keep one around long enough to snap a pic!

Kids eat FREE at IHOP from 4pm - 10pm every day in August!

2010-08-03T18:10:00.003-05:00

I'm not a huge fan of this place...but thought I'd share since I'm sure it can help some of us who's out to stretch their budget!

Sweet Home Chicago

2010-07-16T03:12:00.003-05:00

I know it's been ages since my last post...but we had such a fantastic time in Chicago with the entire family, I decided to take the time to post a link to my online album!

Cristián's 2nd Birthday is A'Comin'!

2010-03-25T08:23:00.002-05:00

I'm hosting a Pampered Chef catalog party!

2010-02-08T10:01:00.002-06:00

I was fortunate to be introduced to Pampered Chef a few years ago and have been extremely satisfied with the items I purchased—particularly the baking stone I use to bake my cookies, biscuits, and bread on. Unable to find a local representative to host a cooking party for me, I instead contacted a cousin from Dallas who sent me the materials I’d need to host a catalog party!

If you’ve never heard of Pampered Chef, then you’re in for a treat! In hopes of updating and adding to my own cooking and baking collection, I’m providing you this opportunity to purchase these high-quality items for you and your family as well!

Please browse Pampered Chef’s online catalog so that you can give me your order by Sunday, February 14th! Don’t forget to take advantage of the February customer special and save 20% on stoneware!

Any orders from people outside of Edinburg / McAllen will be mailed to your homes. Just contact me with your order and I'll get back to you with a total. I can then take your credit card info (please don't send it over the Internet) which I will promptly dispose of after submitting your order.

Please tell your foodie friends about this...they'll be glad you did!

Discovery Toys: Get a Jump on January!

2010-01-11T00:22:00.009-06:00

Get a JUMP ON JANUARY with discoverytoys by shopping their wildly popular Winter Sale, by taking advantage of some great promotions for hostesses by booking a January party, or by joining the discoverytoys team for only $99.00!!

Shop the discoverytoys Winter Sale!

Discovery Toys is now having their wildly popular WINTER SALE! View the products on sale by clicking on the thumbnail image of the flier on your right.

This sale doesn't just include some discontinuing products, but some of DT's favorites as well! Some of the discontinued line can be purchased at up to 50% off the regular price while supplies last!

Hurry! This sale ends February 6th!!

Host a dt Party and enjoy added Hostess Bonuses!

Pick the date, place, and time...
Invite as many people as you can...
I'll bring the toys...then you'll...
Earn free toy credit based on your party's sales total! Use it on your own child or to buy something special for that other important child on your shopping list!
For parties booked and held December 26 - January 31, hostesses may receive added bonuses: a free sale item (up to $20) for a $200 party, and a bonus $50 in free toys for a $500 party (over and beyond the normal hostess rewards amount).
That amounts to $160 worth of free toys with a $500 party!! ($20 free sale item + $50 bonus +$90 free products). By taking outside orders, you can work on achieving this goal before the party even begins!!!

Join discoverytoys for only $99.00!

In January, you can join Discovery Toys and purchase your Success Start Kit worth over $390 for only $99.00 (plus shipping).
With only 1 or 2 parties a month you can earn extra rewards through the Success Start Rewards Program! These rewards are only available to new consultants and can earn you $1,024 in cash and product after achieving your first three months’ goals:

           - receive a $75 cash bonus after reaching your first
             month's goal of $500 in sales
           - your Success Start Kit REFUNDED after
             reaching your second month's goal of $500 in sales
           - and a New Products Kit (valued at over $165) FREE
             after reaching your third month’s goal of $750 in
             sales!

And that's ON TOP of your 25% commission!!

Interested in placing an order, booking a party, or joining my team? Then call or email me!

Look who's on ESPN! :)

2009-12-19T13:23:00.023-06:00

I was just browsin' around online when I came across this fun lil' freebie from ESPN! I'll prolly look around for a better pic...but until then thought I'd share this! Get your own ESPN poster at http://poster.myespnhighlights.com!

Give the Gift of Learning this Christmas Season!

2009-11-21T07:27:00.010-06:00

Hello!

Thanksgiving is here and Christmas lights are going up as we speak! Have you started shopping for Christmas yet? Well, I've got some great ideas on how you can save money while giving some great toys that are both fun and educational for the important children in your life.

1.	Create a Child dt Wishlist!
	Look through the catalog with your child and select his / her favorites... Pass around a few catalogs and copies of the wishlist to friends and family... Collect orders - whether they're gift choices for your child or for their own family- then... Earn free toy credit based on your sales total! Use it on your own child or to buy something special for that other important child on your shopping list!
2.	Host a dt Party!
	Pick the date, place, and time... Invite as many people as you can... I'll bring the toys...then you'll... Earn free toy credit based on your party's sales total! Use it on your own child or to buy something special for that other important child on your shopping list!
3.	Buy a "Gift of Learning" Bundle!
	Save 10% - 15% on an infant, toddler, pre-school or family games "bundle" of toys... Give the whole bundle to that special someone in a lovely eco-bag that's provided...or... Break up the bundle and pass out the toys to several children as stocking stuffers or gifts!

It's become a Christmas tradition...

2009-11-20T12:38:00.003-06:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

TO DO: Nutella Ricotta Calzone at Toby's Public House

2009-10-15T23:11:00.004-05:00

Does this look absolutely SCRUMPTIOUS or what?!? Some friends from Brooklyn recommended Toby's Public House for their pizza since I made it known that I was gonna want to try some Brooklyn pie on our next visit to NYC...but now I'm more lookin' forward to trying THIS!

For those of you who may not know...I'm a HUGE Nutella fan...and have been known to eat spoonful after spoonful straight out of the jar on more than one occasion...sooo...to happen upon THIS masterpiece is more than just serendipitous...it's destiny. :)

You've got to be kidding me!!!

2009-10-07T00:42:00.003-05:00

Ok, I'm going to completely expose myself here to show you something I just think totally ROCKS!!!

*clears throat and composes self*

Well, you know what I mean. It's just, kinda cool is all. :)

I used to spend hours scrunching my face in all sorts of grimaces trying to move things from one shelf to another using the "FORCE"...and now, I can actually do it!!! This thing actually measures BRAINWAVES!!!! I haven't read any reviews on it and bein' that it's over a hundred bucks, I can't really justify my needing it *rolls eyes*...so if you have one, or know someone that does...I GOTTA know what's it's like to use! Contact me!

My Top Ten Baby Products (0 - 3mo)

2009-10-06T12:28:00.006-05:00

	1. This is my top recommendation to new moms. We're already sleep deprived as it is...how terrible is it to quietly sneak into baby's room late at night to make sure all's ok...just to wake him/her up? I learned as a new mom that some babies are noisy sleepers! That's my son! If I only had an audio monitor...I would have visited the crib hundreds of times unnecessarily!
	2. Another must-have if you're nursing...is the Boppy. For about a week, I had this pillow on my lap (along with baby) for no exaggeration -- 10 - 12 hours of each day. It really does help making nursing a joy. In fact, I had two...one for the nursery...and the other for the car for those parking lot feedings (I sure hope I'm not the only one who had done this...)
	3. Ok...so most would look at this lil' gagdet and laugh...but it proved very valuable to me! It not only helped me keep track of baby's feedings, poopings, and naps...it helped me figure out his natural "schedule"...and that made ALL the difference!
	4. First of all, I'd have to say ~~I've been fortunate enough to NOT have experienced a full out BLOW OUT...but having heard all about them, I had to bump this gem up a few notches.~~ this came in VERY handy when my baby blew mac and beef chunks in the middle of the night. Fortunately, I had a back-up of one of these ready to use. The swap was made swiftly and smoothly and baby was back to sleep soundly within 5 minutes.
	5. It's hard to remember just why I once thought this was worth its weight in gold...but I guess that's one of the blessings of motherhood. When I was nursing and rocking baby 20 hours of the day, this ingenious contraption provided me my first respite. Yes, I still had shampoo in my hair and soapy water dripping down my legs...but it provided me my first 10-15 "alone time" in weeks...and oh, it was sublime. My version was an earlier one of shapes...but from the reviews, it seems this one is just as enchanting to lil' eyes and ears. :)
	6. This was the second item that kept baby's attention for that much needed 5-20 minutes in the morning as we got ready for the day. Be sure to get the one with the twinkling motion-activated star. It mesmerized. :)
	7. Most would say this book is common sense, but in the wee hours in the morning, common sense tells ya' to go back to sleep...so it's nice to be given a simple checklist (the "5 S's") that gives ya' a sense of (much needed) "I know what to do" when your insides are screamin' louder than your baby, "NO YOU REALLY DON'T!" That, in my opinion, is definitely worth the cost of the book alone. :) Giving a research-based backing to all the time-honored strategies for consoling a howling baby...makes us feel better about all our sshh'ing and rocking...even if they don't always provide the immediate results we hope for.
	8. As one of the "S's" listed in the book in the #7 slot, this is something I used only intermittenly...but when I most needed it, it was the ONLY thing that would work! I gotta say I did sometime feel guilty swaddling my squirming and wailing little one in one of these...but when all else fails...this seemed to work. I moved quickly from the full body swaddle...to the let-the-arms-out version...to ease my guilt. I mean c'mon...when you're placed in a strait jacket...what else is there to do but to calm down? Anyway...baby wasn't always unconsolable when I used this...I also pulled it out when his spastic arm jolts kept waking him. I probably would have used it more if we didn't have to cope with the South Texas heat.
	9. As another of the "S's" suggested in the book, this provided for rest from the "shhhh'ing" that really did make a difference. It also helped to screen outer noises when we were at the mall or at church. We chose the portable model since we liked being able to strap it onto his crip, his carrier, the stroller, and even his swing (we preferred this sound over the one the swing provided). It has several sounds to choose from: trickling water, showers, waves, and whale sounds. We used the waves option the most. It was very soothing. :) I also liked it's having two auto-off options: at 23 or 45 minutes. I'm sad to say ours won't last for baby #2, but given how often we used it (every single nap and bedtime since birth), I'm not complaining.
	10. Yea...it's a boring entry...but it was also indispensable. I can't imagine having baby in the car seat without it. Again, the South Texas heat made it a bit warm to use, but my mom-in-law suggested I turn it upside down...which I did...and guess what? It worked like a charm. I woulda loved to have used the "real" side...it was VERY soft and comfortable! It was very durable too! It's definitely gonna get another day in the sun with baby #2.
	11. Ok, I know this list was supposed to end at ten...but given just how much of the early months are spent nursing (or feeding), I just had to add two more that aren't technically BABY gear...but more like MOMMY gear. This glider was a MUST HAVE for me! I absolutely love it! Even now with baby hitting two years old, hubby and I use it every day! There are two versions of this chair...one that has plusher arm rests and a locking mechanism and one without the lock and simpler arm rests. I can't say anything about the latter...but the gliding motion on both is SOO smooth! I didn't use the locking mechanism at all. Some reviews rate it a bit narrow, but I think I'm average sized...and it did just fine with me EXCEPT when using a stiff "Luxe" Boppy (the older non-stretchy middle one). That particular Boppy just doesn't fit well between the arm rests. :(
	12. Ok...this sorta falls under the category number #11 creates...essential Mommy Gear. So you're nursing/feeding and baby's just about ready to fall asleep...and you realize the fan isn't pointed right at you...or is blowing too hard...or too little...or...well, you get the idea. sigh You can't scream out for hubby to come adjust it...cuz, well, baby'll wake. You don't wanna chance gettin' up with baby...cuz, well, baby might wake. You don't wanna NOT do something about it...because if it gets too cold or too warm, well, yea, you get the pic. The remote control is what makes this fan for me...so unless it has a remote, then dealing with it while nursing just makes for another problem to solve.

Delayed Locking Feature = GENIUS

2009-09-08T22:30:00.003-05:00

Ok...so I don't really know where this would go on any of my posts...but I'm so happy about it...I had to share!
On our Yukon XL (as far as I know, this is a feature standard on any Yukon SUV since 2003 with remote locking), my husband and I just discovered a FANTASTIC programmable feature called DELAYED LOCKING!
Get this...with any door open, if you punch the lock key on the driver's side door or on the remote...you'll hear three chimes...and then the doors will lock automatically 5 seconds after the last vehicle door closes!
*waits for audible gasps*
ok...so mebbe this isn't comin' across as genius as I'm makin' it...but lemme give ya' my everyday scenario:
I park, turn off the ignition...throw the keys in my purse or clip 'em to a belt loop (and immediately forget which)...sling my purse over one shoulder...open the back seat door...unlatch baby, sling the diaper bag over the other shoulder...and then I pick up baby...*whew*
...and this is where it gets tough...I now have to LOCK the doors. Sooo...hopin' that the bags won't slide down my arms (I HATE that), I start hunting for the keys. Using my sense of touch I check my belt loop...first the one under baby's toosh...then the one under my obscenely large and heavy diaper bag, when they're not there (about 50% of the time) I then start digging blindly through my purse behind baby.
FOUND THEM! So then I adjust all so I can pull the keys up to where I can actually see 'em...THEN I press the lock button!! *whew*
I then wipe the sweat I've accumulated from skillfully self-cramping my trapezoids and deltoids in my only-sometimes-successful efforts to keep my bags up on my shoulders with baby in place.
This is the end of my ordeal IF my bags didn't slip. If they do...then there's the additional discomfort of cradling 30 pounds of baby on a forearm while painfully swinging ten pounds of purse from my left elbow and ten pounds of diaper bag from my shaking right hand wrist.
NOW, do you see why this delayed locking thing has me so excited?!?
I can now LOCK the doors before I load my arms up! Once I bump the door closed with my toosh...the doors automatically lock five seconds later!
*eyes sparkle*
I'm so happy. :)
Willy, my husband, likes the feature too. I figured it was for the same reason(s) i like it...but no...it wasn't.
*look of excitement dawns on his face* "WAIT! Now this means I don't have to wait for you to get off the car in order for me to lock it!"

*pft*

Let me introduce you to Swap-a-DVD!

2009-09-04T13:36:00.013-05:00

I just got an email today from Swap-a-DVD that a DVD on my wishlist is on its way: Yoga For Beginners

I chose it based on both the remarkable reviews on Amazon and the life change I've witness in a friend's life. Soooo...why post about it? Because I got it for FREE!

Well, ok, maybe not for FREE free...but it might as well have been! I "swapped" it for a dvd that was gathering dust near the back of a media drawer...hmmm, what was it called again? oh yea, Blue Collar Comedy Tour.

*blink blink*

In case the wonderful soul who found it fit to gift us this gem happens to read this, I'll just say, we never watched it. yea...*eyes roam*, we were too busy.

Yea, so...and my point is? Stop throwing away your money buying DVDs you'll hardly (or NEVER) watch...and post them on Swap-a-DVD! You'll pay for postage to send it off...but then the person who happens to be clearing his/her DVD shelf of a title YOU "wish" for...well, then they pay shipping to you.

As for this yoga DVD...it's not something I'd pay money for at this point...but with the possible life-changing benefits it might bring...it's sure worth a dusty unwrapped DVD I was never going to watch anyway. Besides, even if yoga doesn't work out for me (and given my track record with self-help fitness DVDs, the odds ARE somewhat doubtful), I'll just swap it at swaptree for another cookbook. :)

TO-DO : Carrot Cake French Toast!

2009-09-02T14:51:00.002-05:00

Ok...I always come across stuff...online, emails, word of mouth, TV, etc...that I'd like to someday do...but, of course, never actually remember 'em. SOOOO....it is HERE where I will post 'em as they reveal themselves. :) Today, my TO DO is to visit South Congress Cafe in Austin, Texas to taste their...

*drum roll please*

and it's heart healthy?!? wow! oh. wait...the heart means vegetarian...ooohhh.

pft. as if it mattered. :)

my sis vouches for it's goodiness and so carrot cake french toast from South Congress Cafe...you are SO mine!:)

I found my brookie!

2009-08-31T22:01:00.001-05:00

It was the summer of 1996...and my family and I had just ended a lovely stroll in Central Park to visit a place I would never forget. It was called DT - UT...and that is where I met...the brookie. Encased behind the plastic display were treasures untold...pastries, cookies, brownies, rice krispy treats, make-your-own-s'mores...and...the brookie.
After selecting our treats, I ordered my milk...and it's then that I knew this place was special. "Would you like whole, low-fat, or skim?"

*gasp*

I was home.

With goodies and cold milk in hand, we took our place on some worn sunken couches near the front of the store, and dug in. I can't tell you much about the cookies...or whether I got to try a rice-krispie treat or not...but I can tell you...with the brookie, it was love at first bite. Slightly crispy on the top and edges, soft and fudgey in the middle...and delicious throughout!

BROOKIE: part cookie, part brownie - that was the explanation behind the name...and did it ever live up to that name!

I came home from that trip to NYC determined to find that recipe on the web...but alas, it would take me over TEN YEARS to find something comparable...and here it is:

The website I got the recipe from called it a Blondie...but I call it heaven.:)

WARNING: These blondies are super simple to make and thus are especially dangerous! If you're into gooey, chocolaty, goodness...then be warned. I can't ever wait until they cool completely to dig in...and so I enjoy 'em EXTRA gooey in the beginning. If you are able to ignore the delicious aroma wafting out of your oven...then by all means, wait it out. It is my husband's opinion that they actually improve with time. My husband loves 'em come Day Two...if there's any left. :)

Basic Blondie Recipe (with my "Brookie" add-ins):

Ingredients
6-7 TBS butter, melted
1 cup brown sugar
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup flour
1/4 tsp baking powder (optional, creates lighter blondie texture)
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (I suggest Hershey's Dark)
1/2 cup chopped pecans

Preheat oven to 350. Grease an 8x8 pan (or use Baker's Joy or Pam for Baking). In a large microwave safe mixing bowl melt the butter. Allow to cool for 5 mintues. Mix the brown sugar with the melted butter and beat until smooth. Beat in egg and then vanilla. Sift together salt, flour and baking powder (if using) and add to butter mixture. Mix in the chocolate chips and pecans. Pour into prepared pan and use a greased spatula to evenly spread mixture in pan and level the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until set in the middle.

I am not responsible for your growing waistline should you choose to explore BakingBlonde's Weblog...it's a GREAT source for all things gooey! :)

Celebrating 15 years of Marriage at Los Cabos!

2009-07-03T17:08:00.001-05:00

I'm spending a small fortune on Internet time uploading pics...if you want to read / see more on the WONDERFUL time we're having while in Cabo...check out my photo album on Kodakgallery!

Cristián de Jesús Contreras...is walking!

2009-04-26T06:05:00.001-05:00

We decided to make it "official" today since today marked the first time he consistently preferred to be left standing every time I'd place him on the floor. He also did considerably more standing, squatting, walking, stopping, and pivoting than he ever has before...and on his own (without prompting) too! We didn't do much coaching (we weren't anxiously awaiting this milestone)...but we know Grandma did the last two times she babysat! We might have her to thank!(?)

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T20:02:00.001-05:00

Cristián's first Easter was BLESSED! After a great church service, we headed over to Willy's uncle's home to celebrate with the family...and it seemed everyone had a great time. The weather was perfect, the food good, and Cristián enjoyed watching his many cousins runnin' around cracking confetti eggs everywhere. I look forward to seeing him join them next year! :)
Thank you, Tia Stephanie, for the beautiful guayabera...he got lots of compliments on it and took lots of pictures IN it! It was the perfect "look" for the day we had!

Our Past Travels...

2009-04-03T12:46:00.001-05:00

This page imported over from a self-hosted domain...and thus the actual links will not work until I fix 'em...
or in other words...
UNDER CONSTRUCTION.

1999 - Denver

Zachary, Laurie and I visited Denver, Colorado to be part of the first ever fan club sponsored Star Wars Convention - CELEBRATION

2001 - Indianapolis

Zachary, Will, and I visited Indianapolis to visit the second Star Wars convention - Celebration II.

2001 - Los Angeles

Laurie and I spent our first sister trip at Walt Disney World...and decided to spend our SECOND trip in Los Angeles and Anaheim where we visited Disneyland for the first time! We also got to visit Long Island and Catalina Island!

2002 - Los Angeles

Willy and I celebrated our 8 year anniversary by going to Anaheim to attend the West Coast Believers' Convention and to visit all the lovely places I got to see with my sister the previous year.

2002 - Guanajuato

Jaime, Stephanie, Willy and I took the youth to Guanajuato, Mexico for our summer youth trip. It was absolutely beautiful!

2002 - Chicago

Laurie and I decided to make Liz's wedding in East Chicago our chance to have our THIRD sister trip. So before meeting up with our old hometown friends, we visited Chi-town!

2002 - Las Vegas

Tom and Laurie met up with Willy and me so we could celebrate my THIRTY year birthday in Las Vegas, NV. I especially enjoyed our suite at Caesar's, Rita Rudner's comedy act at New York, New York...and of course, the hold-your-breath-it's-too-awesome-to-behold..."O" at the Bellagio. Thank you Tom for the hook-up!

2003 - Chicago

Willy and I decided to ring in the 2003 year in Chicago! We saw the sights...and Willy saw SNOW for the first time! One thing we won't forget...it was FREEZING! :)

2004 - San Francisco

For our TEN YEAR ANNIVERSARY, Will and I decided to tag on an extra week to our yearly convention visit in California so we could visit San Francisco! From there we also visited Monterey...BOTH places were lovely. [This website is unfinished.]

2005 - Anaheim

We visited Anaheim for our yearly visit to the West Coast Believers' Convention and tagged on a weekend in San Diego...our second visit! Last time we basically only saw Seaport Village and the San Diego Zoo...this time we checked out Coronado Island, San Diego Wildlife Park, and we finally got to visit the Festival of Art at Laguna Beach! It was fantastic!! [This website is unfinished.]

2005 - San Antonio

In return for some help in scoring a hefty contract, Laur's bosses treated Willy and I (and two visitors) to a weekend in San Antonio and a Spurs game! We took my nephew, Zachary, and Will's nephew, JR, who were treated to box suites at the SBC Center! We had a GREAT time!

Cristián is One Year Old!!!

2009-03-29T04:03:00.002-05:00

I know these pictures came late (and the rest of 'em will still come later)...but we took SO MANY!!!
We hadn't planned on a "party", but were blessed by family and those close to the family who wanted to be here anyway. We had two family gatherings in honor of baby turning one...one on Saturday evening (with Willy's parents and my brother, Jesse and his entire family), and then on Sunday afternoon (with Tio Meme & Tia Rosita and a family friend, Mercy). We were especially blessed by Tia Laurie who made the trip all the way from Austin to be here for Cristián's big day. Willy and I are so very blessed to see him so very loved by all. :)

Cristián is 11 months old!

2009-02-28T04:48:00.001-06:00

Cristián weighs 23 lb. and measures 30 in. long. That is one pound heavier and 1/2 inch taller than he was at the end of January. He's started standing unsupported (when he's focused on something and doesn't realize it) and can climb down our stairs now on his own (while SUPERVISED of course :)). He still loves balloons, balls (round fruits and vegetables qualify), books, and things that go "Burrrr" (mostly cars and motorcycles). He loves crowds and "performing" on cue for 'em. His daddy's especially proud of his habit of "saludando" everyone...even strangers sitting next to us at restaurants. :) A few photos taken from the last two months can be viewed here.

Happy Birthday, Tia Aurora!!

2009-02-15T01:14:00.001-06:00

Dad, Willy, Cristián, and I had a GREAT time with family at Tia Aurora's 80th birthday party this past weekend. Many family members came from far away to celebrate this special day...and I'm sure it was worth the trip! Sharing GREAT food, music, and memories made the party one I'll never forget. I'm so happy to have been able to be a part of it. See more pictures from the party here!

García Reunion 2008

2008-12-28T03:19:00.001-06:00

We were especially excited to join our family in Monterrey for this year's reunion because we were "+1"! :) Our son, Cristián, made his first trip to meet his abuelito's family (many for the first time). Altho' he started the afternoon a bit hungry and sleepy at the church service, after a good meal and an hour nap, he made up for it with lots of smiles and time in everyone's arms at the dinner party. No desconoció a nadie y estuvo de buen humor toda la tarde. See the rest of my photos from the event at my gallery!

Happy Birthday, Dad!!

2008-12-27T03:14:00.001-06:00

This Christmas Day, Dad (Abuelito) turned 85 years old! We celebrated in style at Restaurante Los Balcones in the Hotel Quinta Real in Monterrey, N.L. with his immediate family. We enjoyed great food, time and talk with family, and took some great family photos. Check them out here.

Cristián is 8 months old!

2008-11-29T02:42:00.002-06:00

Cristián is growing fast...and I'm enjoying every moment! Check out a few pictures from the month of November at my gallery.

Rock & Roll San Antonio Marathon & 1/2 Marathon

2008-11-16T11:00:00.001-06:00

My sister, Laurie, along with her friend, Ginessa, ran their first marathon and Willy ran his first 1/2 marathon this past weekend! Congratulations Laurie, Ginessa, and Willy, on this GREAT accomplishment. I'm so proud of all of you!

Oh yea...and not to be outdone...Cristián crawled (non-commando style) for the first time while in San Antonio! Willy took it as Cristián's way of personally inspiring "Daddy" to do his best!

Cristián is 7 months old today!

2008-10-29T21:12:00.001-05:00

He's getting bigger and doin' well in every way! He LOVES eating his solid foods (and BOY is he a LOUD eater!) He's moving around more and more and will be crawling really soon! He SCREAMS (it's not squealing any more) all of the time...and is now sleeping very well - during both his naptimes and through the night! We praise God DAILY for bringing this lil' one into our lives. We're SO blessed, that we've decided to keep him. :P

Other October pictures of our lil' one

Cristián laughing some more!

2008-10-29T20:34:00.001-05:00

Some days it takes a lot to get him to giggle...other days...not so much.

Cristián's First Trip into Mexico!

2008-10-03T02:56:00.001-05:00

This weekend was Cristián's first time joining Daddy to Cd. Victoria for a visit to their church! Pastors Jon & Marissa joined us on this leisurely visit to Jose & Jeanette's house near Llera and to the church in Cd. Victoria. The trip went smoothly and included LOTS of good food and fellowship! Cristián did very well on his first (of many) trips to the churches in Mexico. His presence was a blessing to everyone at the church in Cd. Victoria, but even more so to his Daddy who'd dreamt of this trip for many many years. Praise God for His Goodness!
<<Pictures from the trip>> <<General pictures of Cristián during the month of September>>

My best birthday yet...

2008-09-03T14:29:00.001-05:00

I am SO privileged to have THIS to look at, dote on, and love, all the day long...

God is SO good to us...I praise Him everyday for the BLESSING that manifests itself daily in the form of this young, pure, innocent, and beautiful son God has gifted us with.

Just couldn't help but share...my cup truly runneth over.

Here are some pics we took in the month of August...some are general
and some from our trip to the Gladys Porter Zoo.

Cristian's first visit to the beach

2008-07-25T03:56:00.002-05:00

We finished up our week in Southern California with a visit to the beach...Huntington Beach to be exact - also known as Surf City U.S.A. Although we had just hoped to park, stroll the pier, and grab a burger at Ruby's, we instead encountered a HUGE crowd...seems we planned our visit durin' one of the largest events in the area - the Honda U.S. Open of Surfing. Sooo...we ended up doin' VERY little here...but at least got the pic we had hoped for (thanks Mom C, Sandra, and Sonia!) - this one of Cristián on the beach. :) With that, we skipped lunch entirely to make it to the airport on time and headed home. :)

Goodbye to the Happiest Place on Earth!

2008-07-24T04:24:00.001-05:00

Well...it's goodbye to Disneyland today. The visit went smoothly overall and I hope everyone got what they had hoped to from it. We hadta change plans a few times and skip a few rides...but we made the most of our days there! I've finally uploaded one hundred fifty photos from the trip to my online gallery...you can view 'em here. Our next trip? A SMALL one. :) Rushin' around the San Diego Zoo made us decide to give our local zoo another try...a more relaxed try. :) We'll be reportin' on our visit here. :)

Cristián's first time at Disneyland!

2008-07-23T20:18:00.000-05:00

Ok...so rather than spend an hour tryin' to get that ONE shot of Cristián NOT lookin' at his hands and fingers, I chose to more wisely spend our time at the parks knowin' that i could somewhat reconstruct some shots when I got home. Well...here's one of 'em. Once the pics are all posted, lets see if there are others ya' catch. :)

Cristián's first visit to San Diego!

2008-07-22T00:15:00.001-05:00

Today we visited the San Diego Zoo with dad, Willy's parents, and sisters, Sandra & Sonia...and what a day! We started with a visit to see the famous pandas...and that was just the beginning. After several bus rides and a guided tour, we then headed over to the USS Midway in the afternoon. After that, Willy and I, along with Cristián, Sandra & Sonia, returned to the zoo to ride the aerial tram and see even MORE animals! We stayed right up to closing! Seein' the wild cats so active late night was an experience! Although Cristián was with us, he napped quite a bit, and so Willy and I are now plannin' our next trip to the zoo - Gladys Porter Zoo. More pics coming soon...

Cristián's first flight!

2008-07-21T22:55:00.001-05:00

Cristián's first trip on an airplane went without a hitch! The boppy I carried on didn't make for a very comfy fit for me (or for whoever was beside me), but it made the trip for Cristián VERY comfortable. After nursing during takeoff...Cristián slept for the rest of the flight! Both legs! He didn't make a peep. A gentleman seated next to my father even commented on how well his grandson behaved...told him that his grandson was the best behaved baby on the plane! Daddy was very proud. :) Here he is enjoyin' the view after landing in Houston George Bush Airport.

California, here we come!

2008-07-20T21:43:00.001-05:00

Willy and I have been summer Californians for years now, but this year have the opportunity and pleasure to share the experience with not only our wonderful new son, Cristián, but our parents (on both sides) and his two sisters, Sandra & Sonia, and my sister, Laurie! We'll be visiting San Diego and the Anaheim area...and racking up plenty of firsts for Cristián! First flight, first beach, first theme park, first trip to the zoo, first trip with grandparents, etc...we can't wait! I've jampacked our five day trip with lots to do! See our itinerary here. I'm lookin' forward to posting pictures and how it all goes here...so come back soon!

Cristián is 3 months old!

2008-06-29T15:31:00.001-05:00

Cristián made his first road trip to Austin this weekend to visit Tía Laurie and Uncle Tom...and she had a surprise for all of us! Inviting over her closest friends, she and Tom prepared a first-class Mexican meal with ALL the trimmings! Cristián got to meet her tias Ginessa and Mercy, uncle Ben, and cousin Ivy for the first time! Another first Cristián experienced over the weekend was his first movie! He went with his mom, dad, and Tía Laurie to see WALL-E! He watched intently for the first half hour, nursed the second half hour, and then slept the last half hour. Overall...he did splendidly! We're all so proud of him and love him SO MUCH! Thank you, Tía Laurie and Uncle Tom, for making the weekend - and his 3 month old celebration - unforgettable!

Here are some photos of his wonderful weekend at Tía's and from the month of June.

I've been promoted!

2008-06-06T04:02:00.002-05:00

I am VERY proud to announce that I will no longer be working as a librarian for the public school system but will now devote 100% of my time to being a DOMESTIC ENGINEER! Here's a pic of me in my old office with my new boss. Please be in agreement with Willy and I as we depend wholly on God to provide for us and our growing family. We know it is His will for me to make this family my number 1 priority and ministry. I praise God for the opportunity to raise this child for Him. He is already blessed...AND a blessing!

p.s. We've just uploaded our May photos of Cristian! Check 'em out here!

The BEST Mother's Day Gift Ever! :)

2008-05-11T16:15:00.002-05:00

Even though this is my first Mother's Day...it's hard to think any future gift will top this one. Although Cristián would grace us with fleeting smirks and smile before now...it wasn't until this weekend that he blew us away with TONS! On Mother's Day morning...after responding to his usual morning babble...he responded back (and surprised) me with LOTS of smiles! My heart just MELTED! Tell me if this picture melts your heart too......

Look who turned 1 month old!

2008-04-29T02:04:00.001-05:00

I apologize for not bein' in better touch...but it's been a VERY busy four weeks. even so...we're lovin' every moment with our lil' Cristián. He's still goin' through a growth spurt and feeding every 2 hours...and lemme tell ya', he's VERY punctual...just like his daddy! He's also very gassy...also just like his...er, never mind. :)
We took LOTS of pictures during the month of April...here are just a few!

More pictures coming soon...

2008-04-19T20:46:00.000-05:00

We've been taking photos like CRAZY...just can't find the time to upload 'em all! Our dear Cristián is goin' through a growth spurt and feeding every 1 1/2 hours! We'll get in touch as soon as things calm down on this end. :)

Cristián is 1 week old!

2008-04-05T13:19:00.004-05:00

I apologize for bein' so behind on uploading pictures...but I'm findin' it very difficult to take pictures with this bundle of cuteness at arm's length! Everyone is absolutely in LOVE with Cristián! Everything's goin' well...he's nursing well, sleeping well (as you can see), and his first couple of doctor's visits and reports confirm he's perfect in every way! Praise God!
For more pictures...click here!

Cristián has arrived!

2008-03-30T04:15:00.001-05:00

Cristián de Jesús Contreras
March 29, 2008 (on his due date!) ; 1:18 a.m.
7 lb. 5 oz. ; 20 in. length
Well...I must say, a certain newcomer had me distracted from my usual photographer duties...and I apologize for that. This is the best we have for now...but that will soon change!

Willy and Cynde +1 :)

2008-03-29T01:18:00.001-05:00

Early on Friday morning, my water broke...and thus began the expansion of the Contreras household. :) The weekend was an especially busy one so please forgive us if we weren't able to contact you personally concerning Cristián's arrival. Needless to say...we're two very proud parents right now and enjoyin' every moment. Pics soon to follow...

Here's Cristian's nursery (and me at 36 weeks pregnant!)

2008-02-27T03:56:00.002-06:00

Being the librarian that I am...I had to choose a "theme" for Cristian's nursery based on a book character...and so Curious George it was! Willy and I have been soooo blessed by everyone! The crib and dresser/changer were provided by my father's family in Monterrey, the bedding by family and friends' gift cards, and the Curious George diaper stacker and blanket by my sister, Laurie! Cristian is already so blessed AND a blessing!

Jesus Garcia - 84...and still going strong!

2007-12-25T22:06:00.002-06:00

Here's Dad...looking great on his 84th birthday! This picture was taken outside my brother's house just before celebrating Christmas with his family. We praise God and thank Him everyday for my father's health and speak and believe MANY MORE to come! Just the weekend before he was celebrating his family's yearly reunion in Monterrey. See pictures from the Garcia Reunion 2008 HERE!

Happy Thanksgiving from the Garcia-Contreras-Dolans!

2007-11-23T23:58:00.003-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving from Austin, TX! It was here we enjoyed our 2007 Thanksgiving Feast...and a feast it was! Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, creamed corn, broccoli cheese casserole, green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, plenty of gravy and buns! And for dessert? A pumpkin cheesecake from Cheesecake Factory, a pumpkin and pecan pie from Marie Callender's, and two homemade apple pies! YUM! We hope everyone had as great a Thanksgiving as we did! Happy Thanksgiving all!
More pics

A Family Pic

2007-11-09T17:12:00.001-06:00

Hi everyone! Willy and I just got back from a GREAT weekend at TBI's Youth Fall Retreat with 17 members of our beloved youth group! Everything went REALLY well and we've returned a BETTER youth group! You can see pics from our weekend on our Kodakgallery page! Here's a pic of Willy and I before we headed back. I know many haven't seen me in a bit...so rest assured, I'm definitely showing. :) Here I am 20 weeks pregnant with our first baby, Cristián de Jesús (yes, I know, the name's a bit redundant...but we hadta get my dad's name in there and it just sounded better - and more Mexican - with the "de" in it. :)). We're takin' good care of him and he's lookin' forward to Thanksgiving with Tia and Tio Dolan in Austin.

Coming Spring 2008

2007-11-05T04:40:00.001-06:00

Hey all! Willy and I have had a secret for quite some time now...since July to be exact! What secret you might ask? Well...click the play button below to find out. :)

Having trouble viewing the above video? You can also see it here.

Meet Delilah!

2007-10-02T18:57:00.001-05:00

Meet Delilah Dolan...also known as "Dee". She's a 6 month old Goldendoodle who has turned the Dolan household upside down! With her incessant barking, messy crapping, persistent moss-eating, and all-together clumsiness, she has absolutely won the hearts of even the most indifferent. Welcome to the Dolan household, Delilah!

Our trip to San Antonio and Austin w/ Tio Meme and Tia Rosita

2007-08-03T18:35:00.003-05:00

Meme and Rosita joined Willy, Dad, and me on a trip to visit Laurie in Austin! We stopped in San Antonio on the way so that Tia Rosita "conociera a" San Antonio...and we had a great time! After a visit to the Alamo, we took a stroll down the River Walk and ate at the County Line. During our stay with Laurie in Austin, we also got to visit the State Capitol! Click here for more pictures from our trip!

Our Trip to Mexico was GREAT!

2007-07-28T04:27:00.001-05:00

Willy and I, along with our parents, tried to visit Rancho La Tapona near Tula, Tamaulipas, but were deterred when we were told it would be a 2-3 hour drive off the main road on caliche. :( That adventure will have to wait for another trip. We did get to visit San Luis Potosi, Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato, and Real de Catorce though! We stayed our first night at the Westin in San Luis Potosi and the following three nights at a lovely B&B called Casa Estrella de la Valencia on the fringe of Guanajuato. Our last night was spent at the Meson del Refugio at Real de Catorce, a mining "ghost town" with lots of old world Mexico (think Nacho Libre) charm. :)
See the rest of our photos from the trip here.

West Coast Believers Convention 2007

2007-07-14T20:59:00.001-05:00

Well, we're back...here's a pic of our last evening in California right before celebrating Willy's birthday by enjoying the Pageant of the Masters! It was wonderful! Our whole trip was blessed! We spent lots of time in God's Word...in quality fellowship with one another...and elbows deep in GREAT FOOD! :) See pictures from our trip here! Next year the West Coast Believers Convention won't be in Anaheim, but in Long Beach! Who knows, eh? :)

Our trip to Central Texas with Pastors Jon & Marissa!

2007-06-29T00:47:00.002-05:00

Although we were gone only two days...we did so much! A great BBQ lunch in Blanco ending with coffee and WONDERFUL baked goods from a nearby quaint bakery, a canopy tour among cypress trees near Spicewood, TX, some relaxation, evening snacks, and a lovely breakfast at a fine B&B in Wimberley, the BEST steak dinner at Cedar Grove Steakhouse, strolls in two quaint small Texas towns (Wimberley and Gruene), a picturesque lunch overlooking the Guadalupe River at the Gristmill in Gruene, old-timey photos at an ol' western themed photo gallery, a stop to shop at the way-cool, new Bass Pro Shop in San Antonio, and a sunset evening dessert of delicious peach cobbler, apple pie, apple cake, ice cream, and milk at a quiet rest area on the way home. *sigh* Everything was GREAT! See our pictures here!!!

Celebration IV was AWESOME!!!!

2007-05-27T15:47:00.003-05:00

I haven't had a chance to create a log of our trip to Los Angeles just yet, but thought I'd post a video I found on youtube that gives a pretty good overall picture of what we experienced:

Check out our pics from the trip here.

Savannah graduated from K-5!!!

2007-05-18T04:33:00.002-05:00

Dad and I, along with the Garcia family, had a wonderful evening enjoying poetry, singing, and picture-taking of Savannah as she graduated from Kindergarten at Harvest Christian Academy. She was perfect in her poetry, singing, AND ceremony procedures. She also looked absolutely DARLING in her graduation gown and in the lovely dress she had on underneath. You can see all the pics I took HERE.
CONGRATULATIONS SAVANNAH!! WE LOVE YOU!!!

Laurie got the job!!!

2007-03-21T20:14:00.001-05:00

Laurie Dolan will no longer be providing the San Antonio Riverwalk and Rivercenter Hotels with her excellent sales expertise, but will now be working for the beautiful JW Marriott Desert Ridge in Phoenix, Arizona!! No, she won't be moving there (although it's gorgeous enough to consider), she'll still be working remotely from her beautiful new home in northwest Austin.
Congratulations, Laurie! We're so proud of you!

Star Wars Celebration IV...here we come!

2007-03-13T05:38:00.002-05:00

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, Star Wars Celebration IV will be taking place in Los Angeles! Zachary, my nephew, and I have been to Celebration I in Denver and II in Indy but were unable to attend CIII due to the inopportune scheduling of a certain wedding (yea, we missed CIII due to a wedding, can you believe it?! hehe...just kiddin', sis). Soooo...as of now, our flights are purchased, our hotel booked, and our badges on order. We can't wait!

Willy and his supporters at Edinburg's 25th Annual 10K Run/Walk

2007-02-03T15:19:00.002-06:00

Willy improved his time from last year by 12 1/2 minutes! Check out the race's results here and see Willy start and finish here! They accidentally listed Willy in the wrong bracket (30-34) at 50th place, had he been placed in his actual bracket (35-39), he would have come in 47th! We're so proud of you, Willy!

García-Lopez Reunión 2006

2006-12-30T02:36:00.002-06:00

We were happy to take Dad to visit with the rest of his family in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon. It's always a blessing to see all of our aunts, uncles, and cousins. We had a great time and took lots of pictures! Click here to see the rest of our pictures.

La familia García

2006-12-24T00:07:00.002-06:00

We finally got the WHOLE Garcia clan together (including dogs) for a family portrait...don't we look great?! Take a look at our other pictures too...of the whole group, Meme & Rosita, Jess, Nel & the kids, Cynde & Willy, and Laurie & Tom!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2006-11-23T18:37:00.002-06:00

Willy and I were blessed to host this year’s Thanksgiving Feast…and what a feast it was! We roasted (and brined) two turkeys, had mashed potatoes, spicy creamed corn, a hashbrown casserole, green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole and sausage-apple-pecan stuffing. We also prepared five homemade pies (two apple, and three pumpkin) in addition to TWO more (another apple and a pecan) that we specially-ordered for the occasion!

Willy’s family came over (minus Sandra who was at home resting from her recent wisdom-teeth pulling) along with my uncle Meme and his wife Rosita. We missed seeing Jesse and Nelda, but we were sure to send over some creamed corn for them to enjoy. :)

Willy and I are very thankful for the opportunity to be a blessing to our family and even more thankful to God for having close, healthy and loving family members to invite. Thank you, everyone, for coming and making this a memorable Thanksgiving. We love you.

Hill Country Jaunt

2006-11-10T17:58:00.001-06:00

Just for the fun of it, Willy and I spent the weekend at the Hyatt Regency and visited with Laurie and Tom in San Antonio! We then strolled the vendors at Market Days in Boerne, ate and polka'ed through Wurstfest in New Braunfels, and then praised and clapped along at the Gospel Brunch (with a Texas Twist) in Gruene! What a weekend!

- click here for more photos -

We're losing a member of the family! :(

2006-11-02T16:12:00.001-06:00

By this evening, Nelly, our beloved Red 4x4 Chevrolet Suburban that has served our family, church missions team members, and youth group faithfully for many years will be on her way to the mountains of Colorado (like Willy says, "La Colorada va para Colorado"). We wish her well...and know she will be a blessing to her new owners. Ponle, Nelly! We'll never forget you!

Back in the USA!!

2006-07-03T04:38:00.002-05:00

We couldn't have picked a better way to reaquaint ourselves to the good ol' USA (and to celebrate our 12th wedding anniversary) except with friends and family at a feast of American food (at Taste of Chicago), and a great game of America's favorite pastime...baseball!!

...more pictures...

Lake Como, Italy

2006-06-29T04:14:00.001-05:00

We chose Lake Como for our last stop because it included a little bit of all that we love about Italy...small village atmosphere, cobblestone "contrade" (narrow streets), mountains, water, flowers, boats...and breathtaking views around every corner!

...more pictures...

The Dolomites

2006-06-26T03:59:00.001-05:00

Visiting the Dolomites in Northern Italy was a last minute add-on...but we are SO glad we visited! Castelrotto was quaint...and the mountains AWESOME! We didn't feel like we were in Italy at ALL here but LOVED every moment! We hiked a mountain meadow, enjoyed some traditional Tirolean cuisine, and breathed some of the freshest air anywhere!

...more pictures...

Venice, Italy

2006-06-24T01:33:00.001-05:00

Venice was everything we hoped it would be...the canals were beautiful, St. Mark's Square beautiful, and the city didn't stink after all! Willy and I visited St. Mark's Square every night and enjoyed great meals every evening! We especially liked our 1/2 day trip to Burano...it was especially quaint and picturesque!

...more pictures...

The Cinque Terre

2006-06-21T20:47:00.001-05:00

We stayed three nights in the lovely Cinque Terre...a part of the Italian Riviera. We stayed in Riomaggiore...but spent time in all of the "5 Lands"...even hiking through all of them! The towns are very picturesque...and accessible (and in some cases ONLY accessible) by train. Riomaggiore was a bit less touristy than the others, but not too quiet...it seemed to me there were locals out and about gettin' business done everywhere. Manarola was the most picturesque...and quiet. Vernazza was also very picturesque...but pretty packed with tourists. Corniglia was also very pretty...very quiet...and the most remote, being the only town not right next to the water. The final town, Monterosso was very resort-y. There were lots of tourists here too...but there was more space to handle 'em. We enjoyed all five of them and especially enjoyed havin' an apartment to "live" in for a few days. :)

...more pictures...

Under the Tuscan Sun...

2006-06-19T18:06:00.001-05:00

Here we are...at the first of our stops in Tuscany...Civita de Bagnoregio. After renting a car, we stayed in Tuscany for a week; two nights each in Pieve Sprenna near Siena and Villa Il Poggiale near Florence, then two nights in Antica Dimora in Florence. We visited five hilltowns in all...Civita, Pienza, Montepulciano, San Gimignano, and Volterra. We also took our time getting there by driving the Sienese Crests *GORGEOUS* and other out of the way scenic roads. Willy hadn't driven a standard car in a while...but he did beautifully!

Besides seeing Florence's famous art...we day-tripped to Pisa (the tower is still leaning) and to Lucca...so we could bike around the city's beautiful ramparts. :)

...more pictures...

Next stop...Cinque Terre!!

Rome, Italy

2006-06-13T23:24:00.001-05:00

Our trip just keeps getting better! Rome's days were busy...and our nights were dreamy. Piazzas are GORGEOUS at night...and gelato is EVERYWHERE! *dreamy sigh* We hit the highlights...the Colosseum, Roman Forum, the Vatican, St. Peter's, tons of monuments...we even took a special Christian Tour of Rome! We did everything we wanted to...and more!!

...more pictures...

Our time in Paris...

2006-06-10T12:09:00.001-05:00

Let's see...the Metro was immaculate, Notre Dame beautiful, the Louvre immense, and the Eiffel Tower all it's hyped up to be. Three days did not provide near enough time to enjoy everything, but we enjoyed every moment we had.

We hope to return some day. :)

...more pictures...

Italy...here we come!

2006-05-30T18:47:00.001-05:00

Well, it's only been twelve years of marriage...three years of studies...and about two years of planning...but we're FINALLY gonna see Italy! For those of you close to me *gulp* you know what that means. :) We'll be leaving to Paris on June 6th and will be returning on July 6th. If you're interested in following along, feel free to take a look at our itinerary by clicking the link below the map! :)

Our Itinerary

Happy Birthday, Leonel!

2006-04-09T01:29:00.001-05:00

Just finished celebrating our nephew's birthday!

Happy Birthday, Leonel!!

- webalbum -

Hmmm...Maybe Willy's NEXT Run???

2006-04-06T14:44:00.001-05:00

I know we haven't even left to Italy yet...but can you believe we're already excited about our return to the good ol' USA?!?

We'll spend our first weekend home celebrating our 12th anniversary reacquainting our taste buds with good ol' American grub at the:

Taste of Chicago 2006

And who knows...mebbe our (or, um, Willy's?) first effort to work off our month's worth of Italian fare will be at the Taste of Chicago's 5K Run/Walk:

Race to Taste 2006

Now I can honestly say I can't wait to leave...AND come back! :)

1st Annual Maquina 5K

2006-03-27T22:08:00.001-06:00

Willy helped organize Elsa's first Maquina 5K...and it was a success! Here he is crossing the finish line!

He did pretty well considering he walked the first quarter of the race with one of his students who fell at the starting line. *shrug* whaddaya do, eh? It didn't discourage him though...he's looking forward to his next run! :) I'm so proud of you, Willy!

Check out the rest of the pics I took of this 5K here!

Leaving to Corpus!!!

2006-02-17T18:30:00.001-06:00

Hi all...Willy and I will soon be on our way to the George Blucher House Bed & Breakfast in Corpus Christi to help his parents "redeem" their Christmas weekend-getaway gift. :) We're lookin' forward to the short break...we'll be in touch!!

The George Blucher House is one of our fave weekend getaways...check it out here!