tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91807360022245275842024-03-05T01:37:15.459-08:00Team TovarTOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.comBlogger489125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-17390973306554169452024-01-15T22:25:00.000-08:002024-01-25T13:46:58.860-08:00Memories <p> Months ago we had a game night with some dear friends and their family. They brought several games to play. One particular game was a bit of an eye opening experience. I can't remember what the game is called but basic idea is as follows. Everyone has a tile and marker to write their answer. Someone asks a question and you write your answer down as a % to which you agree with the statement/question then without seeing other people's answers, you put yours down in order of least to greatest. Ok that was a weird explanation. The real result that was surprising came with the questions "How important are family traditions?" My kids wrote their percentages down and put them clear at the beginning of the row. Meaning they didn't think anyone could think family traditions were less important than they felt. </p><p>Sure enough, they put 0% importance on family traditions and simply said that they didn't think we had any. Now all the adults were feeling a bit bad for me because they were even aware of all the things I try to do around holidays. I wasn't sad. Honest. I was just surprised that all the work I put into the various activities were really not all that important to them. I actually had bumped into someone's opinion instagram post that suggested doing a poll with your kiddos before major family holidays about expected fun and food that made things feel special for them. I confess that I will still do activities for the various holidays because it brings me joy. But glad to know that I really don't have any pressure from the kids to make things magical for them. So, today for example, I didn't do my usual learn about Martin Luther King Jr activities and food. We just had a good conversation about why they didn't have school and the price many had to pay to try and get kind treatment.</p><p>For Christmas, since all of my kids are non Santa believers, I went back to the idea of the kids buying gifts for their siblings doing a random draw. Mia took it a step further and purchased gifts for everyone. But the kids thought that was all Christmas was going to be. Meanwhile, I had been painting and building various Christmas characters out of all the boxes coming to our home prior to Christmas. I had an idea that stemmed from last Christmas's opening game. Last year, I wrapped each person's gifts in the same wrapping paper. Everyone had their own print but there was no names written on the gifts. Instead, they each got their own scavenger hunt to find their wrapping paper. My favorite scavenger hunt was the one I found for Fernando. He had clips of words from famous Christmas songs that lead to another clue. You could hear him singing around the house desperately trying to figure out the correct missing word. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwiee-_9Cn-FLPWj8a2rwG0fMCLhCDvrudDsXK8O-mJz4OJB9__Xtzv0nyxaEbZ7LzP1uFbAbXQNDdDRBtNNQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1zcaqaM42A4" width="320" youtube-src-id="1zcaqaM42A4"></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was also a bit of a trick because for Christmas itself we had flown to Costa Rica which had its own fun delays and sicknesses etc. We came home in time for New Years and I did my tradition of New Year's tree with activities. I love watching the kids get excited for what each other gets. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Anyway, back to Christmas 2023. After we did the kid gifts exchange, my parents came over for the day. They are currently serving a mission in Alaska and live in Wasilla which is about 45 mins away. They had a cute gift that my mom made. These cute little gnomes that she hand kitted. They looked incredible. The last gift under the tree was a simple Christmas bag with a silly poem I wrote and QR code to the Left Right story. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">POEM:</div><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Your sibling gifts were magical! it’s fun to give And get </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Surprise It doesn’t have to end. I hope you didn’t fret</span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #990000;">But of course we haven’t made it easy so listen up my sweets</span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #990000;">Some Christmas friends helped hide your things Each one with challenge you must complete</span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #38761d;">This starts it off with all of you gathered round from young to old</span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Those envelops have clues you’ll need listen to the rules and story as it unfolds </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The link went to <a href="https://onesimpleparty.com/left-right-christmas-game/" target="_blank">One Simple Party' blog</a>. I had everyone get in a circle Oldest to Youngest. I had gifts for my parents so I had my mom stand in for me and so I could read the story. I handed an envelop to everyone in the circle and started the story. This story had the unique direction of "all around". The all around cue meant everyone gave their envelop to the person across from them. I can't tell you how many times I drew a diagram starting with one person to find out where that envelop would end up. It looked like one of Javi's mazes he loves to do. I tried it so many times and with some many different starting positions. And I still was nervous. It went off without a hitch, but I still double checked. Now that everyone had their correct envelop, we had a clue to search for the first Christmas character. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">First off was a reindeer. Ok, use some imagination and think about designing things with just cardboard boxes. Don't think about all the creative work people have done with cardboard. I felt like the inversion of the boxes to avoid needing to cover up the various amazon or Walmart logo placement was enough extra effort. The head had a game of ring toss. The winners got to open their presents first.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9nLDETKMd1r1tbGhm0hDKe0xFGcFyyQNPCUoPqcXJQGeJ6791jYkoNmUSzdrRzwCoIkOsv0tRYWpW4me27t1O0C67_aLzf1CbL9mzojzGWUWL6nAZ8RpVb-1JbIDvJr9pkC8Ev7aZ56wdtwnM50XagS2GhV9DMA_c3Yvf6QNVE7Bnb5KoKMSPfYi2fQ/s4032/IMG_8085.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9nLDETKMd1r1tbGhm0hDKe0xFGcFyyQNPCUoPqcXJQGeJ6791jYkoNmUSzdrRzwCoIkOsv0tRYWpW4me27t1O0C67_aLzf1CbL9mzojzGWUWL6nAZ8RpVb-1JbIDvJr9pkC8Ev7aZ56wdtwnM50XagS2GhV9DMA_c3Yvf6QNVE7Bnb5KoKMSPfYi2fQ/s320/IMG_8085.HEIC" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAWndOBiaCvyIqBEdtmwurie9DXc0ivy8hDjBrtEtPyS5fv0Dhgo6kcaQcKa-c6tmAiB_DsnrZnfwJ_NaKPtVwU664YEPdMzmW7uOfMpCTb5-Z46TvPR0G7mNpe8dhE6sw0KxHmjpN1KR1XChON3i9unHNF9EXzUMbOlC2xGMIihg1ezarZcsbA5iOvX8/s4032/IMG_8086.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAWndOBiaCvyIqBEdtmwurie9DXc0ivy8hDjBrtEtPyS5fv0Dhgo6kcaQcKa-c6tmAiB_DsnrZnfwJ_NaKPtVwU664YEPdMzmW7uOfMpCTb5-Z46TvPR0G7mNpe8dhE6sw0KxHmjpN1KR1XChON3i9unHNF9EXzUMbOlC2xGMIihg1ezarZcsbA5iOvX8/s320/IMG_8086.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After the game and presents, they found a clue that took them to the garage to find a ginger bread house. The front door opened to a small box inside the big box. It was full of brown bags painted like ginger bread houses. There were random treats (including oranges) or a post it notes. Some even had $ hidden under the treat. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE5YdCx3WYI37Rs71oefPbJs7TUlswV4jXMxmTGtlqzktLgEhRV0OeMlPQffftnN82__sIZ_uiKfkadqoukRksn0zE3MFy44pTWC9mVcb36dxWH2i6FZGKuRDj9GybUdbhWW3vX_NVcRwejdC67fWMq3fnOuzEomop10BeYoJPFEFwCBp65rY-TkvU1cw/s4032/IMG_5603.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE5YdCx3WYI37Rs71oefPbJs7TUlswV4jXMxmTGtlqzktLgEhRV0OeMlPQffftnN82__sIZ_uiKfkadqoukRksn0zE3MFy44pTWC9mVcb36dxWH2i6FZGKuRDj9GybUdbhWW3vX_NVcRwejdC67fWMq3fnOuzEomop10BeYoJPFEFwCBp65rY-TkvU1cw/s320/IMG_5603.HEIC" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcoDelCAUmnNsxH1SAqcRpZi1W8neytI2UX8dQyfDWxCNbDtgpM5-sN23QpsPE0Ub8QLcxKF0aMOv8bTNix6DbvGfaR4b_jXg4O7IHNgFBZW1121nMOnln-dHMduksWaUK4fFm5yAtl3Jwt0eXESQq6v1SO1g07wp5zLgx9I6DepMkHlN-yoQ365xeMWk/s4032/IMG_1935.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcoDelCAUmnNsxH1SAqcRpZi1W8neytI2UX8dQyfDWxCNbDtgpM5-sN23QpsPE0Ub8QLcxKF0aMOv8bTNix6DbvGfaR4b_jXg4O7IHNgFBZW1121nMOnln-dHMduksWaUK4fFm5yAtl3Jwt0eXESQq6v1SO1g07wp5zLgx9I6DepMkHlN-yoQ365xeMWk/s320/IMG_1935.HEIC" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSghpLwu1q9DReS0YoW3r8xHIyksgaUpSehX6QgfY0qC1MEqxk225yjx0-yf8pmfwX3dEvO4X_sGFT7i7b_Uj2ouOQH3zpcj9856df9zugKFSJX4t5ymwIsSc3B5kO3Rbpu0WkwpxevIimrfUQbngae49xEkmkWvdg01uUTg4jvWPsnI_lLD5DhN1Pntw/s4032/IMG_1933.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSghpLwu1q9DReS0YoW3r8xHIyksgaUpSehX6QgfY0qC1MEqxk225yjx0-yf8pmfwX3dEvO4X_sGFT7i7b_Uj2ouOQH3zpcj9856df9zugKFSJX4t5ymwIsSc3B5kO3Rbpu0WkwpxevIimrfUQbngae49xEkmkWvdg01uUTg4jvWPsnI_lLD5DhN1Pntw/w298-h223/IMG_1933.HEIC" width="298" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibfPT9ikDnvcxUgciCjvP1Jj7568YPct0yjXMzkP-HY2EP-0OX36UZ04Af30sfubfch4961ghYRRnimklOBiCLbeCxYfNSRH6U7bBMqrGoJkMKzUW92LCmq-MjcUlUvzH1HpUwgMzPmwVYex_V_BaPTOWeefR0EppDr4BmH-cyf89NvC-ZELtqiv5RwbY/s4032/IMG_1931.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibfPT9ikDnvcxUgciCjvP1Jj7568YPct0yjXMzkP-HY2EP-0OX36UZ04Af30sfubfch4961ghYRRnimklOBiCLbeCxYfNSRH6U7bBMqrGoJkMKzUW92LCmq-MjcUlUvzH1HpUwgMzPmwVYex_V_BaPTOWeefR0EppDr4BmH-cyf89NvC-ZELtqiv5RwbY/w296-h222/IMG_1931.HEIC" width="296" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The game was inspired by this post on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=758704232762817">Facebook</a>. They had numbered bags (like seen above) and numbers in a cupcake pan. I added the bonus of colored stickers and colored ping pong balls. Everyone got two tries per turn. If you got the same colored ping pong ball into a space that had a matching colored number, you got to look at the number bag you landed on and decide to keep it or randomly select another bag. It was surprisingly hard to get the balls into spaces for me, but everyone else seemed to do it rather well. After the game and presents, they were led to the guest room to find the snowman. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I felt pretty proud about the hat having a book for the rim of the hat. The top part of the hat had the game. We had to scoop "snowball" cotton balls into a container but used the scarf to make it hard to see. It was so funny to watch. I went last so I got the advantage of seeing the best way to go about it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjGzN87_XsK5mwY-KvWH_LP7uX7c0eB_1xjpfx_uPSiWVB-Z4hRYDwKiPPH6LU2qXHz-Deao9Y0Dp9CGxxpE7MJ8lP2191meg36hxipqoXr4tpsgLdbKnnr6rNRxUbmpUWJvDCAoVZ0Rv7hBKgTbjSHrUpT_Lo2unZzj03gOnV4Vc_IhBOu2McTuuuUf4/s4032/IMG_8097.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjGzN87_XsK5mwY-KvWH_LP7uX7c0eB_1xjpfx_uPSiWVB-Z4hRYDwKiPPH6LU2qXHz-Deao9Y0Dp9CGxxpE7MJ8lP2191meg36hxipqoXr4tpsgLdbKnnr6rNRxUbmpUWJvDCAoVZ0Rv7hBKgTbjSHrUpT_Lo2unZzj03gOnV4Vc_IhBOu2McTuuuUf4/s320/IMG_8097.HEIC" width="320" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LjjcjJdaUo8" width="320" youtube-src-id="LjjcjJdaUo8"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: left;">After this game and present opening, the clue led us to the game room. This particular character had no game to play because all the gifts were games to play together including the track. The track box had a new backboard for our indoor basketball game that had been busted by some slam dunks. We also had some board games: Oh no! Volcano, El Dorado (or Dorito as Javi calls it), Kites. There was also<br />a diamond Christmas picture, and Mario Wonder Switch Game.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVUBHJBvfgIQKhs4tr0PCsPVtsRX_GiIhF8Ctoz87i0M6w8i6P3a2RAex4PLVWklt8bNyWR_APifcV2EIfvwhvYyUEEGfW13ExFoCE1sRo5FsGLW1udO4ERJZq9QzqDqCASZVPkNrq6sjlMIEMHSCkGIe_zzBE8cGHbcDr4lHQw21taiVPReCJtGuIAQQ/s4032/IMG_1952.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVUBHJBvfgIQKhs4tr0PCsPVtsRX_GiIhF8Ctoz87i0M6w8i6P3a2RAex4PLVWklt8bNyWR_APifcV2EIfvwhvYyUEEGfW13ExFoCE1sRo5FsGLW1udO4ERJZq9QzqDqCASZVPkNrq6sjlMIEMHSCkGIe_zzBE8cGHbcDr4lHQw21taiVPReCJtGuIAQQ/s320/IMG_1952.HEIC" width="320" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Finally behind the couch there was the candle. The flame had Pictionary Air. I custom made some cards that had various Christmasy clues. With the stylus, people took turns drawing their clues in the air while everyone else tried to guess what they were drawing. The catch is the person drawing can't see the screen. The stylus casts the light drawings onto the screen. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgygABKHDRykif1377QcPEpSD3EsEpeIbE5vaAICOHzzw3BSbZ0YmhWhmG1Zv0jF8QFwXW2VHYrM5CY2MDWkHK4_1i400B0flTT5G8swsZT5ks1P8bbJqX9xiIHeAEgB6o9xBfDGLa4wUDdsXPXZtcO3LVXjtTOKLbHSrcO_AsRGqG2vg1sne_Ig9lHi4k/s4032/IMG_1955.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgygABKHDRykif1377QcPEpSD3EsEpeIbE5vaAICOHzzw3BSbZ0YmhWhmG1Zv0jF8QFwXW2VHYrM5CY2MDWkHK4_1i400B0flTT5G8swsZT5ks1P8bbJqX9xiIHeAEgB6o9xBfDGLa4wUDdsXPXZtcO3LVXjtTOKLbHSrcO_AsRGqG2vg1sne_Ig9lHi4k/s320/IMG_1955.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>It was a lot work planning, making sure the correct gifts were in the correct characters, hiding the characters (ok, that was easy since I always do stuff like this for my church callings. The kids just assumed it was for activity day boys), and then having them ready Christmas morning without drawing attention to them. I loved it so much. It spread the Christmas fun for most of the day. We only had two hours to clean up and get the space ready for our Christmas Dance. This year we invited two families to join us. Mia did the food. Fernando put together the play list that builds to a climax song and even has an interpretive dance moment. I sent my parents to the USO to deliver the baked goods we made for the airman who couldn't go home for the holiday. Magically things were ready to go at the designated party time. There were treat and finger foods galore. Super impressive since Mia had 4 wisdom teeth removed a week prior. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Y8y7BSh5PcOwTD7avKvN1F7ZDyYh8mrcKV0lFxAYncL7PmH0t57bvEtEmEujrzOCv-usaBsz6RUEKWZtIPN-RuQxj60D5sC3MWo6cesZGHq8Pkfo4zoKlLvDvgj82KLqYXRPFDGYoKNnd4rmoBFtmYjRPEmt8WTn7jOCuZJKXhCqp_qnY4Hfc3861KU/s4032/IMG_1959.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Y8y7BSh5PcOwTD7avKvN1F7ZDyYh8mrcKV0lFxAYncL7PmH0t57bvEtEmEujrzOCv-usaBsz6RUEKWZtIPN-RuQxj60D5sC3MWo6cesZGHq8Pkfo4zoKlLvDvgj82KLqYXRPFDGYoKNnd4rmoBFtmYjRPEmt8WTn7jOCuZJKXhCqp_qnY4Hfc3861KU/s320/IMG_1959.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><br /> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div><br /><p></p><p><br /></p>TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-73027175596575664142024-01-15T00:13:00.000-08:002024-01-15T00:13:23.481-08:00Regrets<p> I have been looking back over the years and regret not keeping up with our family blog. So many memories lost to me. I even read some of these posts and look at the pictures and still don't remember being apart of the memory listed. So I'll attempt it again. 10 years later. We added a kid since the last post and had another move on to college with another about to follow. </p><p>Fernando is the Bishop of the Mt Baldy Ward and has been since right before the big Covid 19 moment took as all for an interesting loop of events. It's to the point where people have asked how long he's been in and whether or not he is ready to move on. Although it isn't super great having him gone, I feel like we have been training for this moment our whole married life. Medical school did a great job at training me for flying solo. </p><p>Mia is finishing up her final year of college and in her internship phase of her business major. I always thought that art or design or sewing would be her choice of major. But in true Mia fashion, she discovered her own passion and path and is getting it done.</p><p>Tiago is finishing is final semester at the Middle College. I keep trying to convince him to take a few more courses to save himself time and money later but parents aren't known for knowing anything until there is a chance to look back and reflect. He has been accepted to University of Hawaii but is thinking of staying for a year our local University of Alaska. He is doing varsity basketball again. I am impressed with the drive he has to continue with Basketball although the team is still waiting to get a win.</p><p>Talia is working on juggling a lot of talents in music. She is the ward organist. She has taught a few kids on violin, viola, and currently piano. She made it into Swing/Varsity choir. She arranges music and has picked up playing the guitar. This year we decided to homeschool to work on prioritizing school assignments to give her a fighting chance to get into Middle College. She also is trying to learn Spanish.</p><p>Joaquin started middle school and has loved being in his English class. He also really enjoyed his mysteries in history class. He has been in orchestra but doesn't really care about playing the cello. We have hopes that he will finally make it into a season of basketball without breaking something. For the the past 3 seasons, he broke something right before practices really even began. He broke his foot once at school trying to jump and touch the rim of the basketball hoop. He broke his hand during a practice. and broke his thumb doing something else. </p><p>Javier is our only one in Elementary school. He has hearing aids that he wore diligently but then got out of the habit. He loves listening to books. His most favorite books are the I survived Series, books about animals, How to Train your Dragon series, and practically any book about history. He is always learning facts and sharing them with us. He loves his oldest sister and spending time together as a family. He has decided that Santa is not really based on logic. </p><p>Myself. I actually look at my life and wonder how I am here. How am I now 43 and have kids moving on with their lives. I have often wondered what my next steps are going to be. Either way, hopefully I will be better at up keeping this for my own viewing pleasure.</p><p>Today I gave a talk over zoom to a church branch in our Stake. Such a funny thing to do. I was asked last minute because I agreed to put my name on a list of those willing to help speak in the various alaskan branches. Years ago, I was in CA with my in laws at their branch during Fast and Testimony Sunday. I kept thinking how weird it would be to have to give and listen to the same 10+ people every week. When I came to Alaska and saw the small branches, I vowed I would always be willing to be a speaker as needed just for the people to get a break. </p><p>I was asked to give my thought about the LDS General Conference talk by Elder Cook in Oct 2020 entitled Hearts knit in righteousness and unity. I receive the text Saturday after I had finished my morning shift as a temple worker and while I was at my son's girlfriend's swim meet. I already planned to take my youngest to the swimming pool and bowling with his friend. Not wanting to refuse, I agreed and just hoped that I could come up with something. Thank heavens I had to give a lot of talks while serving as the 1st Counselor in the Stake Young Women's organization that I could find a previous talk that was about the same idea. I shifted a few words around and because it was via zoom, I could prop my phone on my laptop and read my talk and reference Elder Cook's talk pretty seamlessly. My talk ended in just enough time to take Joaquin and Talia to church for their responsibilities as the new Deacon's president and the ward organist respectively. I let Talia drive them down last week (illegally since she is still only 15 and on her provisional license). I dropped them off and came home to pick up Tiago and Javi. We made it back with a few minutes to spare. </p><p>After playing for primary and catching the rest of RS, I was a bit pooped. I made everyone scrounge around for lunch and drew some pictures with Javi. I get a bit sleepy so I curled up on the couch. I have a vague memory of Talia asking to go ice skating and her friend Robert coming in. I wasn't even alert enough to pretend to be awake when she brought him into the house. </p>TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-90795414695654749292024-01-14T23:36:00.000-08:002024-01-14T23:36:04.977-08:00Catching up--Part 1 of Many---HAWAIIWhen we knew Fernando was going to be deployed, I started figuring out how to pass the time so I didn't pass out as a mom. I knew we wanted to visit family to help the kids have some family love coming from more than just me. To achieve the multi-state travels, I planned on using our ability to fly on the military airplanes called Space-a or hops. <br />
<br />
Quick overview:<br />
The term Space-a is condensed for Space Available. The military has various flights for loads of stuff and whatever space they have left over is open to military members and their family. Each person/family is given a rank between 1 (totally gets on every time) to 6 (pray no one else shows up or that there are tons of seats). We were a category 4 with Fernando's deployment status. The flights are random and only published 72 hours out at a time. <br />
<br />
We wanted to travel to California first to visit the Tovar side then head to my sister's house that happens to be a convenient 2 hours away from them. Then drive (which I soon switched to fly because I am not a long distance driver) to Utah to visit my sister Angela and her new baby. Finishing the tour would be a stay at my parents' house.<br />
<br />
All these plans took a shuffle when I found out my sister was going to be on bed rest until she was able to safely go into labor on her own. We tried numerous ways to make it anywhere close to Utah, but no go. So, we went back to plan a. The nice thing was that weather in Alaska was still pants and long sleeve weather. I had our bags packed for weeks just ready to go whenever the flights showed up. Still no flights were going from Alaska to California. <br />
<br />
Then one fateful Sunday, a flight to Hawaii opened up. It turns out that Hawaii has several flights a week going to various places in California. I figured, stay in Hawaii a few days. Enjoy the sunshine and the beach then take the first flight to California. So the adventure begins.<br />
<br />
We had a less than normal first time experience getting onto space-a. Everyone who wanted to fly was able to get on board. I had brought snacks for the flight and thought "we just ate lunch and the flight is only about 5 hours, so we won't need the meal." WRONG. I didn't understand that different airplanes are flown and some are significantly slower than commercial aircrafts. The kids were starving, but luckily some nice people shared their boxed lunches that I should have ordered when we were getting our boarding passes. <br />
<br />
What rocks and stinks about these flights is that the airplane is a free play zone. We played red light green light in the middle of the plane, got to visit the cockpit to see the pilots, lay on the floor to watch movies, and wander as we pleased. The stink is that the open ended opportunities are less appreciated than limited ones. I confess I didn't plan well. The flight seemed to drag on forever with its loud engine noises and windowless tomb like feeling. <br />
<br />
We arrived in plenty of time for me to get our rental car except we weren't aloud to deplane for another hour and a half. At this point, all of my kids passed out. I had to wake everyone up which led to a scream fest and grumpy incapacity to help. I felt so sorry for all my tired, starving kids. By the time we got off, the rental car place on base was closed and same with all the food places. The shuttle bus wouldn't allow for suitcases, and the taxi ride to our hotel was a steep $75. <br />
<br />
I needed a moment to think. We parked ourselves in the kid area that we would end up knowing quite well by the time we left and I worked the options. End result was to take a taxi to the airport car rental area, get a sort of over priced deal with all the airport fees and taxes, but make it to the Hale Koa in time to sleep at a ridiculous hour. <br />
<br />
Next morning wiped out all the stresses of the day before. Nothing like an all you can eat breakfast looking out to the ocean, a chance to swim in a pool next to the ocean (I would never go into the water in Waikiki), and off to our next hotel at Bellows beach. The trick with space-a is that you never know when you are flying out so you never know how long to have your car rental and hotel space. I figured we'd stay until Wednesday and then easily catch a flight to California. I scheduled hotels and rental cars accordingly. <br />
<br />
The kids wanted to play at the beach, spend a day at the Polynesian Cultural Center, and beach some more. Sounded perfect to me. I was amazed at my stamina. I swear I couldn't do all the activities and driving with no naps and pretty rough sleep. I felt like I was being magnified and then some. Here are some of the photos from that tripsTOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-82913150720891746502015-11-29T12:59:00.000-08:002024-01-14T23:38:07.614-08:00Climb California!! Once in California, we prepared for some rock climbing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrEDNRFEK5jNIQAXCcouMBJ4GG2n0_JVRP8Q362Zkiz4Illxq82ngC3DZwKdhlhyphenhyphen8OA395aWJTXKxjAqQlYrSYx3kjcnyZCQWeCsmpr3v3_F6qT6sneGWV-EYOgJRqg14zbNIS7k4ePNk/s1600/DSC_0332.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrEDNRFEK5jNIQAXCcouMBJ4GG2n0_JVRP8Q362Zkiz4Illxq82ngC3DZwKdhlhyphenhyphen8OA395aWJTXKxjAqQlYrSYx3kjcnyZCQWeCsmpr3v3_F6qT6sneGWV-EYOgJRqg14zbNIS7k4ePNk/s320/DSC_0332.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div>
First we went climbing on the edge of the ocean... quite literally. The cliff's drop went strait into the Pacific. We climbed in our swim suits, as seen above of Tiago. </div>
<div>
We headed over to the Mojave Desert to the Tovars home. </div>
TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-86913044743150626262014-11-15T06:51:00.001-08:002014-11-17T01:37:57.697-08:00Our Epic Family Adventure Part 1<br />
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<br /></div>
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Clear back in April, we decided to sign up for a chance to follow Fernando for a few months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The logistics were a bit
overwhelming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We worked several
different options including terminating out rental contract and putting our
stuff in storage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fortuitously, some new
neighbors moved in and we snagged a good deal of boxes to pack up our household
goods.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the end, the stress and
timetable of the rental termination helped us decide to keep our contract and
find friends willing to use the house while we were away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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Though we tentatively decided to go through with the whole
transient lifestyle, the deal was sealed when my Mom arranged for a few days of
horseback riding at her cousin’s house in Wyoming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The plan was now to visit Fernando’s family
for a few weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fernando would head off to set things up for us (housing, car, etc) while we played in Utah
with my family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, when things were
looking settled, we would make our way to Fernando.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All the while, we would do very basic
homeschool to keep the kids’ brains active and functioning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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During our final preparations, a few big problems decided to
rear their ugly head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All the flights
seemed to disappear (common with Space-A) so we bought last minute plane
tickets to California.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The weather
started to get a little chilly (like pipes freezing/bursting cold) and we found
out that our furnace was broken and the repair wouldn’t be completed until
after we flew out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On top of all that,
Joaquin decided to play super hero off our wooden chest and damaged his
foot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The radiologist didn’t give us any
hope for a positive outcome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Luckily, Joaquin’s foot seemed to heal (not 100% sure as the
doctor seems to be, but that is what the xrays show).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because the tickets were only one-way, it was
relatively inexpensive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Amazing friends
went out of their way to be at our home to turn on water and space heaters, and
open cabinets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One dear friend noted
that is was warmer in our garage than the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They took turns opening the house for the
repairman who wouldn’t show up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
furnace finally was fixed much to everyone’s delight. We were on our way. </div>
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Friday, September 27 at 10:30pm we arrived at the Anchorage International Airport. Our dear neighbors dropped us off and helped us carry all 13 bags into the terminal. We were flying JetBlue that only had the extra roomy seats available and should have charged us $40 a seat, but kindly let us upgrade for free. The flight took off at midnight, dropped us into Seattle 3 hours later. Lay over was 1 hour (long enough for kiddos to really wake up and buy some overpriced breakfast) and then we had a 1 hour flight to Long Beach, CA. It really put things into perspective how far Alaska is from the continental US. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Funny side note, while watching the other passengers board the plane for Seattle, I couldn't help but notice the very similar attire and appearance. Almost everyone who walked down the aisle had gauges in the ears, rings in strange places, dreaded hair, au natural hygiene and a mellow attitude. The same could be said for boarding to LA except those items were replaced with perfectly coifed hair, immaculate makeup, lightly bronzed skin, and coordinated apparel, bags, jewelry, and shoes. </div>
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Long Beach Airport was quaint. We walked off the airplane onto the tarmac and enjoyed the palm trees in the open atrium between the terminal and the outdoor luggage claim. To save time, I sent Fernando with Tiago and Talia to pick up the rental car and took Mia and Joaquin to snag the luggage. Needless to say, it was quite a show. I think most people expect a certain amount of luggage per person. People stared incredulously after the 5th bag I pulled off the serpentine luggage claim. I almost caused a crisis when the locked gun case loomed across the black belt. The women in front of me, recoiled at the site. One whispered loudly pulling as far as she could away from the tainted box "Is that a gun? That's totally a gun." As if on cue, I hoisted it from the conveyor and set it next to Joaquin. Even if I wanted to go on a shooting spree, the unloaded gun had two huge locks. They could have easily escaped in the time I tried to open it. Too bad, I don't even touch the gun Fernando purchased for me years ago. The only guns I endorse for my use have lasers or paintballs.<br />
<br />
With 12 bags (4 of which were significantly oversized and heavy), 1 carseat, plus about 4 carry ons, those little pay for luggage carts weren't going to cut it. Luckily a kind skycap employee came to our rescue. He even wandered around with us to find where Fernando went with the car. We used some mad Tetris skills to fit everything. Even still, bags were everywhere. We stopped by Panera for some deliciousness, and Redondo Beach while we waited for Fernando's brother to land in LAX. <br />
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The beach was beautiful. I was honestly shocked. Another funny side note, when we first planned to use a military hop to get to California, we thought we could take a detour through Hawaii. It worked so well last year when Fernando was deployed. Flights just kept disappearing or lacked enough seats. After the third or fourth missed attempt, the kids postulated "The reason we can't get on a flight is because mom hasn't followed through with her promise to the missionaries to give a Book of Mormon to her friend." It's true that I did promise the missionaries, but to be fair, I intentionally made it an open ended promise. I love the Book of Mormon. It has been a guide and strength to me and my family. I think anyone who reads it seeking for meaning will gain from its inspired words. I know that my friend, who already has years of exposure to the LDS faith, would accept it kindly. It just felt unnatural and forced. With my girls by my side, I conquered my fear. To avoid awkward conversation that always flows from me while talking about the church, I decided to write my thoughts in the front pages and gave her scripture references to the pictures inside. I gave it to her and even told her that we had missed going to Hawaii because I was supposed to give it to her. She laughed. When I made it to the beach, I forwarded her the picture and thanked her for accepting the book so we could visit the beach.<br />
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After we picked up Fernando's brother, we stopped by the LA Temple to pick up some items. Tiago found this crazy husk and was being hilarious with it. <br />
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The two hour drive to the Tovar's home proved a bit too long. California post up next.<br />
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TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-45200196175886404742014-04-06T23:09:00.000-07:002014-04-06T23:09:07.165-07:00Catch up list vs Conference listWhile there is a lot that has happened in the past year<br />
*deployment<br />
*military hops to Hawaii with beaches and burns and sleeping on a terminal floor and a flight to California with crazy connections to get to family<br />
*Utah fun and then a day trip back to California to hop on a military flight back to Alaska<br />
*family visits<br />
*Kindergarten with a first day fiasco<br />
*beautiful long Alaskan fall<br />
*Complete house rearrangement including moving sofas up and downstairs solo<br />
*return from Deployment<br />
*holidays and birthdays<br />
*Hosted my 2nd Turkey Trot<br />
*dog sledding<br />
*Baptism<br />
*Callings and Releases<br />
*Ice Fishing<br />
*Snowboarding/skiing<br />
*Ice Festival<br />
<br />
I think today I will start with gratitude for <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/sessions/2014/04?cid=HPSU040614654&lang=eng">General Conference</a>. I really resonated with almost every talk which hardly happens for me. I felt strengthened and chastised in the most loving way. I nearly fell out of my chair laughing when Elder Bednar shared a story of a man trying to convince his wife of the necessity of a 4WD truck for emergent milk runs in snow storms. I don't want a truck, but have told Fernando that if our Alaskan stay is more permanent than the one year we are set to have--I NEED a 4WD vehicle to help prevent all of the times our minivan has become stuck in snow even with snow tires. <br />
<br />
The kids were great. I can't begin to tell you have lucky I feel to have found that blog post (pre-pinterest days) to have <a href="http://teamtovar.blogspot.com/2012/04/conference-weekend.html">gifts per Apostle who would speak.</a> Even though I have been doing it for years, I still wait until the very last minute possible to decide what to do. Thank heavens for Talia's birthday party coming up. Many of the activities were for the sole purpose of assembling the parts of the goodie bags the kids would receive. (I have serious issues with just putting in candy that I don't even let my kids eat.) So the night before conference, I headed to Walmart to wander the aisles in search of possible activities. My list this year:<br />
1-3 Puzzles (I meant to have this just be for one talk, but I ran out of ideas)<br />
4-painting bird houses<br />
5-<a href="http://prudentbaby.com/2011/01/baby-kid/how-to-make-a-yarn-pom-pom-2/">Yarn balls</a> (for a <a href="http://intheleafytreetopsthebirdssing.blogspot.com/2012/01/mr-singing-snowman-pom-pom-snowballs.html">snowman corn hole-like party game</a>) which turned into Pikachu balls<br />
6- Elsa ribbon dolls and "Olaf" snowman ribbon dolls for pen toppers<br />
7-<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/242772236137678539/">Sven and Elsa foam head dress </a><br />
8-Playdough<br />
9-<a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-3D-Paper-Snowflake">3D Snowflakes </a>(which was an epic failure. . .every time I cut it wrong)<br />
10-<a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/originals/2a/57/e7/2a57e7f8dfe4b9f555e09fd43aa389f1.jpg">Easter egg</a> (didn't attempt. The yarn balls were a bit too exciting and I was glad not to start this mess)<br />
11- <a href="http://somedaycrafts.blogspot.com/2012/03/starched-string-eggs.html">Easter Egg II </a> (also was grateful not to have to attempt this feat. What was I thinking?)<br />
12-<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6OqpJFzX3YgTFKi6VtzXFVPKb-qYFqk8UQ1nbRbh1JcmdWm9su8BL5E3MaumP01j3mtfj6HxhqXkvBVqyjhctEwxN6svPBOIJHlC5m1lUlvPqhU4FOp60xzJE-ETP4qPhyphenhyphenCLgHbVyCIWr/s1600/original_129140515696492685_129140515696492685_bead-rainbow_3.jpg">Melting Beads</a> which turned into Joaquin scooping and dumping all over the place<br />
13-Picture of the <a href="http://www.ldschurchtemples.com/saltlake/">Salt Lake City Temple</a> with legos to make a small scale version<br />
14-Ballon Animal Maker (again, what was I thinking? Thankfully, the <a href="https://www.lds.org/church/leader/dallin-h-oaks">Elder Oaks</a> spoke at the <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/watch/2014/04?lang=eng&vid=3436246697001&cid=3">Priesthood Session </a> because that would have been a noisy, frustrating experience)<br />
<br />
We also had note pages that the kids were supposed to use to write down their thoughts and impressions they had during each Apostle or Prophet's talk. Bingo cards and a word search were waiting for them as well. Over all it was very successful and now I have Talia's party pretty much ready for next weekend. <br />
<br />
<br />TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-61054802933070259802013-05-17T08:19:00.000-07:002013-05-17T08:19:20.883-07:00Talia Bought Her First Set of WheelsTalia has been constantly asking for a new bike. We sold her bikes when we moved from San Antonio because she just grew too fast. After watching Mia and Tiago pick up the ability to bike ride so fast and on their own because of their scooters, I was really hoping we could have the same success with Talia. Mia and Tiago literally walked up to some kid's bike and hopped on and took off. No assisting the kid while they wiggle on their training wheel-less bike and build the kid's confidence and then letting go as you cheer. Just watching as they speed by on a bike you don't really know who it belongs to. <br />
<br />
Fast forward to the other day when I saw a bike for sale from some local person for $10. Talia used her birthday money and purchased the pink wonder. I told her she could get training wheels, but suggested that if she really wanted to learn to ride, training wheels would just set her back. I hate that the training wheels are always making kids lean to the side! She agree reluctantly. When we first tried, she was terrified, which made me regret the pep talk about the ability to learn without the training wheels. But she persisted mainly because I told her that she could either try to learn or forget about it and on ride her scooter. A few minutes later we had this:<br />
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She rode around for hours. Everyday she can't wait to get out to ride. Another funny aside which made me feel kind of good was that her friends came to ask me to teach them how to ride their bikes. To be fair, the whole learning to ride the bike is totally up to the kid. I think the parent is just there to pick up the kid and encourage them to figure it out. I found out that Talia had been watching the friend's mom try to teach her when Talia interrupted with "you really should have my mom teach you. She is the best teacher." So even though I didn't get to teach my two oldest, at least I had the chance to do the whole stereotypical bike learning moment with a neighbor's kid. I even ran down the block with her yelling "your doing it! That's all you!" Good work out. Great feeling. <iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwmpfdKLvRtypssnvigsgg1exQqiLigHyLlPTFzopuKqfGr71qnb7kg_hyBgdmOcNLf4t9szbqjWSL1mWjRsg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-6836564545040059502013-04-22T16:46:00.002-07:002013-04-22T16:46:22.368-07:00Cancelled From Your CallingFernando was out of town in Ft. Lauderdale for his Oral Boards last week and happened to miss the announcement that he was released from his calling as the Ward Executive Secretary. Not to worry, Tiago made sure to fill him in on how it all went down. Tiago said matter-of-factly, "They cancelled you from your calling, daddy." Good to know that callings and cable subscriptions can be handled so effectively. TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-1316076131149264572013-03-29T14:13:00.001-07:002013-03-30T15:03:06.038-07:00Have you done something with your hair?<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/REq8qpVtjqc?rel=0" width="560"></iframe><br />
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On a related note, I am grateful that Mustache March is coming quickly to a close. TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-57442524381628913792013-03-27T14:00:00.002-07:002013-03-27T14:02:43.205-07:00Spring BreakAfter Hawaii in February, I really didn't expect much for our mid-April spring break. In fact, the kiddos had all of 4 school days between their Hawaiian paradise and Spring break. <br />
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We started out hitting the Anchorage Museum of Art which has a hands on kid section. We went with some good friends which was nice, but we weren't the only families who thought of such a great idea. It was too crowded for my taste so after about two hours, I called it quits. <br />
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Tiago with friend's making a huge bubble around their bodies</div>
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Then we attempted going to the Air Force Base to enjoy the indoor play ground and bounce houses. It was nice to allow them a couple hours to jump around and waste some energy. Joaquin had no clue what jumping was all about. He loves climbing, but the idea of getting both feet off the ground at the same time was a bit undesirable for his taste. That meant I spent most of the time helping him climb in and out of slippery bounce house entrances. It was fun!</div>
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The best moments came at the very end of the week. A friend and fellow Anesthesiologist, invited us to their winter wonderland called their house. The kids got to zipline, sled, get pulled by a snow mobile on tubes, and enjoy lunch cooked via bon fire.</div>
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The next day, we headed with those same friends and a few more families, back to the base which is quite a natural wonder. We headed to one of the many lakes for a little ice fishing. Someone brought a drill that they rented, that promptly broke. Luckily, Alaskans are super friendly, and a neighboring group of ice fishers loaned us their drill. 15 holes later, we set up for some fun. I love the idea of fishing, I just don't like feeling the fish tug on the line. All I can think about is that hook ripping through the poor fish's mouth. SO, I just stayed on the supportive side. It was just for the kiddos anyway. Our hole wasn't very active and after awhile, we bailed for the holes those kind neighbors abandoned when they finished. Every 10 seconds, a fish would bite. I thought it was kind of a funny contrast. And although it isn't very accurate for standard fishing, it does seem to fit the Alaskan way to fish. We enjoyed hot dogs, and s'mores there, but the kiddos cleaned and cooked their fish for dinner that night. Alaska Spring Break saved by the cold weather activities.<br />
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TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-20297886150589045962013-03-18T22:44:00.000-07:002013-03-18T22:44:42.301-07:00Kamikaze Skiing (From Presidents Day Weekend)Kamikaze translates frequently into Divine Wind. I personally think it an apropos description of how my children fly down the mountain on their skis. Thank heavens the kids have only skied on the "Hill"berg slopes which fit their name to a T. It was also helpful that we went on days that were pretty devoid of people. <br />
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Friday was a no school day and Fernando was on leave so we got baby sitter for Joaquin, and lessons for the three oldest and headed to the slopes. It was far more relaxing and much more successful than our <a href="http://teamtovar.blogspot.com/2012/12/merry-christmas.html">Christmas Eve run</a>. I was surprised that Mia, who was the most hesitant about going and the most frustrated with the first attempt at skiing, was quite masterful in her class. The classes were a steal of a deal. They all had private lessons for 90 minutes, with rentals, and lift tickets all for a small total of $125. Thank heavens for the free rental because the board I had bought the day before was in need of some serious edging. I ended up using their free rentals for a rental board there. <br />
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President's day was an equally beautiful day for skiing/boarding. We decided to bring Joaquin this time and take turns on the slope. Fernando took the first shift watching Joaquin. I had the privilege of riding up and down with Talia. Her first run was a struggle. She would slip in an out of confidence--more terrified then thrilled. I suggested that we take our time and try another time when she felt less scared of the mountain.<br />
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Meanwhile, Tiago and Mia had zipped up and down the slopes more times than I could count by this point. Talia insisted on trying again. After another painstaking run, I was about ready to throw in the towel. Then two puffs of pink appeared into view. Our neighbors showed up to ski and Talia was rearing to go. The neighbor kids have been in ski school for the season and go every Saturday. It would be quite the understatement to say their skills far surpassed our kiddos. But kids will be kids and peer pressure is a real thing whether the kids intended to press or not. It was quite the metamorphosis. Talia would barely wait for me to strap in. Once I gave the "ok, let's take this easy", she was off. I had to literally board straight down the mountain to keep up. Hair raising to say the least. <br />
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After several intense runs, I agreed to their constant pestering to allow them to ride up the lift together. My gracious it was more nerve racking to watch them get on the lift and pray they would not fall off while traveling up the mountain. Every time the lift stopped, I thought it must be the kids, but it never was. Including the time Tiago really did face plant off the lift right before the point of no return. It wasn't until I pushed past the orange safety netting into the untouched powder that the lift operator had any clue that their was someone in the danger zone. TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-89993585857710982422013-03-07T12:56:00.001-08:002013-03-07T12:56:23.924-08:00A little Bit of Heaven<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am glad we took the opportunity to visit Hawaii for two weeks. It was a little bit of Heaven. TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-79371522902064458852013-02-03T23:18:00.000-08:002013-02-03T23:18:23.952-08:00Turning PointToday in church we sang a song to help prepare us to take the sacrament entitled "Behold the Great Redeemer Die" and a line from the song stood out to me. It is speaks of the Savior's moments in the Garden--praying to have another option, but still willing to do what has been asked of Him. The song says "I've done the work thou gavest me." <br />
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The Savior's example of obedience is amazing. What He did with His talents and gifts in the most imperfect surroundings makes me wonder what am I doing with the work that has been given me. <br />
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Fernando found the most uplifting show on BYUtv. The show is Turning Point. Every episode I have watched, I am reminded of the Savior. These people, some blessed with many resources and others from less then affluent stations in life, have seen the people around them. They see the needs and go to tremendous lengths and personal sacrifice to bless those peoples' lives. Below is the most recent one I have watched and was touched by the love this man felt for the homeless people of his city. These are the stories that are rarely mentioned and yet could bring so much hope and desires to do good. <script src="http://player.ooyala.com/iframe.js#pbid=YTJhZmJmNWZlNTc5MGM4ZTViZTY0NGJh&ec=Q3cm9tODqE2RCF5DgpHavXKUb5S4ZO87"></script>TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-77851098806740812482013-01-18T22:35:00.000-08:002013-01-18T22:35:03.947-08:00Bon Fires and Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRk6rc1hRDY8hQoIzBr-GAdoMGJzA2t8_RxzgE4s26-d_m-HPIqSUKHlvrIoUGJhC7QQ6yhIo7HlVUJWMKryijkojccN9jb0UscnWgNAd2dijEpxI3NukHCIESsGz1fgJK_d4x9EgsERk/s1600/IMG_9826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRk6rc1hRDY8hQoIzBr-GAdoMGJzA2t8_RxzgE4s26-d_m-HPIqSUKHlvrIoUGJhC7QQ6yhIo7HlVUJWMKryijkojccN9jb0UscnWgNAd2dijEpxI3NukHCIESsGz1fgJK_d4x9EgsERk/s320/IMG_9826.JPG" width="239" /></a>I love the school my children attend. Besides the super friendly staff and beautiful location, the school has amazing programs that they offer for free. One such program happens on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons right after school. The PE teacher (who has already teaches each grade 3 times a week) stays after to teach various sports in the way play used to be. The rules are explained and boundaries are set, but then the kids just are free to play with lots of kids of all ages for an hour. We have done soccer, ropes courses, broom ball (which we missed out on because of sick kids one right after another), and now we get to enjoy a month long of ice skating at the school before we switch to snow shoeing, and then cross country skiing! I get to come and bring my younger two and we love it. They feel like they are one of the big kids. <br />
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Musically, the kids can be in Pipes and Drums learning bag pipes or two types of Irish drums from a teacher (Mia's teacher actually) who competes frequently and even played for the music on Brave!! Famous connection---I know, impressive ;). And/Or, you can do choir which preforms at such fun venues as the Tree Lighting Ceremony in our sweet and quaint "downtown". The kids haven't selected those activities mainly because I needed a chance to slowly fill up my family schedule to a balanced place. But the one they have signed up for that takes place during the next 3 months is learning about music, art, story, and songs from Africa and Australia from a teacher who spent 10 years as an Artist -in-Residence. And yes, I am living vicariously through them by tagging along when allowed.<br />
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Tonight was just the icing on the already amazing cake. Tonight was a family fun night with chili and hot cocoa, ice skating with friends on the the school's out door ice skating rink, a bon fire, and a sleigh ride pulled by beautiful horses and a cute old man who was informative in that silly trivia sort of way. I almost started tearing up while riding along the snow covered tree lined street that looked like we had left all civilization. <br />
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I feel so blessed that my kids get these amazing once in a lifetime opportunities.TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-48846681864775525172012-12-25T15:52:00.001-08:002012-12-29T15:23:12.546-08:00Merry ChristmasThis season was wonderful even though there were a lot of flubs. The three biggest flub ups--putting up Christmas lights 4 different times because the first was just to put on the hanging plastic things. The second trip to the roof was to put up a set of icicle lights that wouldn't hang down due to the sub zero temperatures (that's right--I said sub zero in the same sentence as light hanging). The third try was fantastic except I would of had to have an outlet for each set! Who invented those lights needs to be fired. Fourth and final try was twinkling snowflakes that ran the perimeter of the house. Even though 2 casings of snowflakes busted and a row of 5 snowflakes won't stay lit, I am not going up again until March or April when Alaskans take down their lights. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglNKxEMkaYdtSJNhB3-WFIv3sHs-C627iT16Bmo7ZlQrH5hyphenhyphenmqngKaJVc01XLyfgPsNgL-hpxUBMncAif5RlWgRbfDazBTp8AtsStTQO0tgkhwUvUklUxuoI0FXGTeCjDNmnypvv0Momg/s1600/IMG_0699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglNKxEMkaYdtSJNhB3-WFIv3sHs-C627iT16Bmo7ZlQrH5hyphenhyphenmqngKaJVc01XLyfgPsNgL-hpxUBMncAif5RlWgRbfDazBTp8AtsStTQO0tgkhwUvUklUxuoI0FXGTeCjDNmnypvv0Momg/s320/IMG_0699.JPG" width="240" /></a>Number two and probably the most difficult for me was the live Christmas tree that didn't happen this year. We tried the weekend of Thanksgiving (our usual Christmas tree purchasing time) and found over priced trees that already looked like a fire hazard. Weekend after weekend, we searched. We even tried to cut down our own Christmas tree on base. We went several times to sign in at an office that always seemed closed when we got there. Then on a -1 degree day we discovered that we signed in on line. The waist deep snow and freezing temperatures should have made us leave before we started. Bent on finding a tree we trudged through the snow and found a bunch of Charlie Brown trees in all heights. When I could no longer feel my toes, I decided we should hike back to the van. Tiago, not wanting to leave empty handed, chopped down this sapling and we left with all our fingers and toes attached. Luckily, I got a free fake tree for helping sort things at the Airman's Attic. The kids decorated it in their toy room and that was about the extent of Holiday decorating.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At least there were awesome icicles.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv5yFYMNcmy64lI1bf_jUdsJreKnmPCgtVZahCSYHHkOmpC-28AYdQHhPw4yg6JxgDISLXXX5QHiWELE4hxSNiyQOgAhSjIHwMMQrsJQEhTPG9wH1NMP5O59JNtuoXtKZWKVvZtmGLC-0/s1600/IMG_0491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv5yFYMNcmy64lI1bf_jUdsJreKnmPCgtVZahCSYHHkOmpC-28AYdQHhPw4yg6JxgDISLXXX5QHiWELE4hxSNiyQOgAhSjIHwMMQrsJQEhTPG9wH1NMP5O59JNtuoXtKZWKVvZtmGLC-0/s320/IMG_0491.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The extent of my crafting abilities--our advent calendar!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNmaP2_4N5IU-q-9aLTLzMccJfzSAW-ZQbn-0vvjP7CqK1PNHIXaS1o-rZRzpT-r61W7k20gNqxArFA0Tl1pUrD3nwzM6A7yYCrBJQz98HeMc4v3mc5xJbYYPLdzcWHeeN4hyphenhyphenKLYNsxEs/s1600/IMG_0673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNmaP2_4N5IU-q-9aLTLzMccJfzSAW-ZQbn-0vvjP7CqK1PNHIXaS1o-rZRzpT-r61W7k20gNqxArFA0Tl1pUrD3nwzM6A7yYCrBJQz98HeMc4v3mc5xJbYYPLdzcWHeeN4hyphenhyphenKLYNsxEs/s320/IMG_0673.JPG" width="240" /></a>Aside from that, we had fun with our Advent Calendar with various activities that matched up with scriptures. For example, we read Mark 10:13-14 and talked about how children were very important to Christ. Then we went sledding to try to be childlike. Another night we read Doctrine and Covenants 1:37 about how we need to study and obey Christ commandments. We talked about how it can be easy or hard sometimes to obey. We then tried to draw snowmen on our heads without looking (for hard to obey) and then made a snowman on our fridge for an easy obedience activity and hand snowmen pancakes for dinner.<br />
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Yummy Pancakes</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVgU5SkEOtOpE97fCPkeIb86CjJvJT8QYcH7w8Kq72_mk6z6UU_rAeQD-nuowt_bqsGFtWNCZWL_6iS84cFFKZxisEJaJgm0jrsQPps5QRKY2LbVMBIM4hs7wWJVCwwY3FqIqlFVKR98/s1600/IMG_0520.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVgU5SkEOtOpE97fCPkeIb86CjJvJT8QYcH7w8Kq72_mk6z6UU_rAeQD-nuowt_bqsGFtWNCZWL_6iS84cFFKZxisEJaJgm0jrsQPps5QRKY2LbVMBIM4hs7wWJVCwwY3FqIqlFVKR98/s320/IMG_0520.JPG" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joaquin discovering whipped cream!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNljPrmKv8gptrZ8o76YgP3VadU63uPQfVCsfn7tcU-dejiHjndN62X_cHqVJjFHTGzDoV80cFnmPzsWp3NUwjs5zVjLhMUhN8Y-Ep7mqldIESBsxiDiY2vxJ8wkh9HON1DZJXqDYSYNE/s1600/IMG_0581_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNljPrmKv8gptrZ8o76YgP3VadU63uPQfVCsfn7tcU-dejiHjndN62X_cHqVJjFHTGzDoV80cFnmPzsWp3NUwjs5zVjLhMUhN8Y-Ep7mqldIESBsxiDiY2vxJ8wkh9HON1DZJXqDYSYNE/s320/IMG_0581_2.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYF_vqILJdS__T10yOkE0zhSplmlGdv5JxrD2CpOtgExvqAUbD3WDHUyZZln1IDd2NSYgictAtVBoB_MUJGggGDKffbGHciX3mKzgtGns2OPjJy0V6rHf-39Z4C7CsxNQxkFfrsdyQkGg/s1600/IMG_0580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYF_vqILJdS__T10yOkE0zhSplmlGdv5JxrD2CpOtgExvqAUbD3WDHUyZZln1IDd2NSYgictAtVBoB_MUJGggGDKffbGHciX3mKzgtGns2OPjJy0V6rHf-39Z4C7CsxNQxkFfrsdyQkGg/s320/IMG_0580.JPG" width="320" /></a>We have loved living here because it is really easy to find activities to get into the season. The city just north of us (Palmer AK) had a huge Christmas celebration. We didn't understand the extent of it and so we missed most of the fun the first day. Sunday, we drove up for the Nativities and the kids accidentally crashed a live Nativity play. They told us we could dress up. So we did. Then we were ushered on stage to take part in their ward's rendition of the Nativity. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivVhaYWl7X4EdXYbQ6MXaVcGyazyhgcDgppeHPaoa-NZiJ60moUTFzxs1gO-_-KrZUPUDU6w6z-eKitF4TH7kM0LkhujNmOiNlk9lApduTc8xuVC9AkoWAEARcV8hUgHcEuBiRNiCPe_o/s1600/IMG_0489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivVhaYWl7X4EdXYbQ6MXaVcGyazyhgcDgppeHPaoa-NZiJ60moUTFzxs1gO-_-KrZUPUDU6w6z-eKitF4TH7kM0LkhujNmOiNlk9lApduTc8xuVC9AkoWAEARcV8hUgHcEuBiRNiCPe_o/s320/IMG_0489.JPG" width="320" /></a>We went to a tree lighting ceremony with a Santa who was pulled to the tree by several live reindeer in an open sleigh. There were cookies and hot chocolate and choirs of angels (or at least sweet little kids singing).<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Joaquin pointing downhill to let me know it's time to stop the pictures and go!</span></div>
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We went sledding tons (joaquin loves sledding) and even got the chance to ride around a frozen lake in a dog sled. I was so glad we had just bought hand warmers and mitten style gloves and brought blankets cause it was a chilly ride.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-KG8Hkg1uAuBlQRLN1hm0STK7Ljbl1J9rlUvYu_xr0pnvMFqupvNVzIoPB5JbvLfBe3ZblyCtBowkzO2wR8ec1gO76VOBYph1vutGoLTt50ARS_TnoiciCjbHgJ-fnRxyHZQm4aSL3XQ/s1600/IMG_0829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-KG8Hkg1uAuBlQRLN1hm0STK7Ljbl1J9rlUvYu_xr0pnvMFqupvNVzIoPB5JbvLfBe3ZblyCtBowkzO2wR8ec1gO76VOBYph1vutGoLTt50ARS_TnoiciCjbHgJ-fnRxyHZQm4aSL3XQ/s320/IMG_0829.JPG" width="320" /></a>Christmas Eve we dressed up as Santa, reindeer, and an Elf to score free lift tickets at the ski resort on Elmendorf AFB. We didn't really make it over to the lifts and practiced skiing down the bunny hill. Then joined our fellow ward members at their yearly sled and feed at the Golden Corral. It was fun. Tiago loved Golden Corral. He said "That was the best restaurant ever. You can eat until you are full!" I think we need to start saving for teenage years. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corraling it up!</td></tr>
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To make things a little more exciting, we moved the Christmas tree from the upstairs toy room down to the living room while the kids slept. We also put on the Christmas tree lights and star with gold dangling stars hanging from around the tree on the ceiling. Christmas morning they woke up to this obstacle course outside their room. It was so cute to hear their exclamations upon finding this red streamer surprise. Talia exclaimed "Oh, Santa is such a good man. He decorated our house for Christmas!" Tiago said "He is so clever." Mia just giggled and all of them tried it multiple times. TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-86442451978550737172012-12-12T22:58:00.000-08:002012-12-12T23:00:16.798-08:00Joaquin AnticsI love Joaquin. Everyone in our house is in love with him. It is so fun to watch him do his little antics. For example, when he sees a stuffed animal, he will pick it up and give it a hug and a kiss. (probably because that is what everyone does to him). Also, he will go to whomever is crying to hug and kiss on them until he feels like they should be better. When you tell him you love him, he will make a kissing sound. I could go on and on, but thought I would share this silly habit he has in video format. He has found the best way to store all the toys he is interested in playing with for now or later.<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/BYZwD2WPZo0?rel=0" width="420"></iframe>TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-9109341423480272092012-12-05T15:46:00.001-08:002012-12-05T15:46:32.233-08:00The Spirit of the Season<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ugV6QGcafEE?list=PLD60B23A37F523BE3&hl=en_US" width="560"></iframe>TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-72177629143167246442012-11-30T21:40:00.000-08:002012-11-30T22:12:18.598-08:00Santa Has Come to Town <object><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"></param>
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Even though it was negative some odd degrees tonight, it was magical watching Santa pull into our little town on a reindeer pulled sleigh to light our town's Christmas tree. It was really fun listening to our school's choir sing Christmas songs while we enjoyed free hot chocolate and cookies. The kids were sad (read furious) that I didn't remember to bring sleds for the hill. I am glad we didn't though. It gets dark at 4:00pm these days and I really didn't love the idea of trying to see my kids slide down the hills in the dark. Super fun way to bust into the holiday season. (thank heavens a friend got this video. I was busy trying to keep Joaquin from frost bite and keep my eyes on the rest of my crew since Fernando got stuck at the hospital). Luckily, we got an accidental sneak peek when we found the best parking spot of the night. I happened to see some Reindeer in the adjoining parking lot and suggested that we take a look while everyone was distracted by the freebies. While watching the reindeer romp around the parking lot, Talia saw Santa. We quickly (upon her insistentce) over to see him. He politely asked everyone's name and then took a picture with us. He also then politely reminded us that we should have been waiting for him over by the festivities. TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-22450061920794539102012-11-05T13:58:00.001-08:002012-11-07T22:36:39.238-08:00Biting off Too Much?A resounding yes--I have bitten of more than I can chew on many counts (my backside and middle can attest to that) but now I have really done it. Frustrated with the various fundraisers forced onto my kids at the various schools they have attended, I decided to do something about it besides gripe. I am hosting a Turkey Trot for my school the day before Thanksgiving in hopes of getting more funds for cross country skis. Nothing says "the Holidays" like running in below freezing temperatures, right?TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-12389488103074958832012-10-25T12:31:00.000-07:002012-10-25T12:31:31.404-07:00Is that an Idol?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
While walking onto the grounds of the Alaska Museum of Art, Tiago saw this sculpture and asked, "Is that an idol?" Though difficult to see from this picture, it happens to be a metal statue of a walrus, polar bear, eagle, and a few other arctic animals swirling in a wave of . . . .intrigue? Anyway, I am glad he listens to the scriptures and we had a great discussion between art and worship.</div>
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<br />TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-25806024720603470802012-10-18T23:14:00.000-07:002012-10-19T00:53:37.779-07:00Peeks from Up North<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We are in love with our new home. I wonder if I will ever stop being almost moved to tears while walking around here (especially since winter brings weather cold enough to freeze those tears mid fall). Here are pictures from a hike we did awhile ago. It was amazing. </div>
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The hike meandered around this beautiful forest and brought us to this gorge. We hopped into this cage to hand tram across this glacier runoff river! </div>
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Tiago was really into this "huh" pose all day. I tried not to giggle every time he did it. He would even take a cute one for me and then ask me to repeat the picture with this pose.</div>
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I think this was the last time we forgot to take our hiking back pack in the car. I think that as uncomfortable as it was for Fernando and I to carry him, I was probably even more uncomfortable for Joaquin. <br />
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This water was such an amazing color. In fact all the colors here are incredible. While we were down by the water, this couple struck up a conversation with us. Ok, actually, I started the conversation apologizing for ruining their moment after I saw their private picnic set up. They were totally friendly and welcomed us up to this heaven on earth. Then they insisted on taking a picture for us. All I had was my iPhone, but he had this rockin' camera since he was a former journalist. I am glad we all kind of coordinated. I just wish that we didn't look so tired and I didn't look like a giant lording over my kingdom. Still, it was nice of him to take it. <br />
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<br />TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-54076402792949708372012-08-31T18:24:00.000-07:002012-08-31T18:24:08.561-07:00KidnappingLiving in Alaska has proved to be a very unique experience. We have enjoyed so many beautiful things, but aren't in love with the weird fees that come from being not in the lower 48. Shipping is redonculous. The internet for our home is like paying for a cell phone plan with limits on gigabytes used. Most interesting was the charge from our cable company. We owed $789. The charges were for unreturned equipment and unreturned clients. Fernando and I wondered where we might have put that client so stealthily. Too bad we didn't think of sending a ransom note and then may be they would have been paying us.
On the same vein of kidnapping or kid napping. Talia is going through that undesirable faze where she doesn't feel like she needs a nap, but desperately needs one. It is so sad how she falls asleep instantly while in her carseat around 3 when we pick up the kids but has to wake up for all the obvious reasons. The girl then can't fall asleep until 9 at night. Poor thing. TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-37955970060780297072012-07-16T07:59:00.000-07:002012-07-16T10:37:31.906-07:00New Chapter--GraduationJune 7th marked the end of residency. It just so happened to also be the same day that the movers were packing up our home. Thankfully, my dad had come out to help me on our epic drive up to Utah so we could have the required adult there at the house at all times while the rest of us went to the graduation.
The graduation was held in some building downtown San Antonio. In classic Tovar style, we slotted too much in with too little time. We raced downtown and dropped Fernando off with Mia near the entrance. I planned to park in our usual $2 place conveniently located a few blocks from downtown. Looking back I should have just forked out the $10 and saved us the hassle, but something in me just can't pay extra when I feel like we don't have to. The other kids were distraught that they didn't get to go in with Fernando and proceeded yelling and screaming which made me have a very difficult time navigating streets I never travel on which in turn made me miss my turn and put us on the freeway. We had only minutes before the thing started so it made me even more in capable of thinking.
I finally looped around and found a spot. We jogged the whole 3 blocks over, dropping the keys out a few times and only once stopping for a cross walk. We found Mia waiting for us in the foyer and went in to what turned out to be the longest graduation in history. (or least it felt that way) I was then very grateful for the run with my two most restless kids.
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We proudly watched Fernando pick up his diploma? and shake hands with special people we never saw before or will see again and then waited through a myriad of other specialities. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzdISKVIRAfNoPPR2EH5Egy2fLb7FoBXEI7R95k4DTdXe2OIA6sT4gJWdI0DP1NcZWx9X8x1Oj8LVI6OBBUbYaynktgr8fAmjTND9uVWtU80XAytAXp6kWPEGPp1ubdlrCuIbSNClX5fE/s1600/IMG_8997.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="299" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzdISKVIRAfNoPPR2EH5Egy2fLb7FoBXEI7R95k4DTdXe2OIA6sT4gJWdI0DP1NcZWx9X8x1Oj8LVI6OBBUbYaynktgr8fAmjTND9uVWtU80XAytAXp6kWPEGPp1ubdlrCuIbSNClX5fE/s400/IMG_8997.JPG" /></a></div>
Did we bring anything to distract the kids? No. Thank heavens Tiago never leaves home without some little toy. (this time it happened to be some little Mario Bros characters which means the people sitting near us got to hear graduation proceedings to the tune of the mario theme song mixed with sound effects of blowing up things, Mario sayings, and stomping noises.) I had both of our i phones which was tricky splitting between 3 kids. Near the end, Tiago had finagled the boy next to him into letting him give running commentary on his iPad games of choice.
Finally, after singing all three branches of service theme songs which was really kind of fun, we were done. Well, the kids and really Fernando and I were done probably before it started, but we left. As we were leaving, I felt the need to get the keys out. I am glad I did because I couldn't find them anywhere. Luckily, from picking them up several times on the run to the event, I knew that they could only be somewhere in the near vicinity. I asked the people in charge of clean up if they would keep an eye out for them. We looked on the floor near our seats, we looked everywhere we walked, we looked in the nearby hotels, and nothing. While searching, we bumped into some friends and neighbors who offered help, but really there was nothing to be done. My house was in chaos and I had no clue where the extra key would be. Everyone was off to special lunches in celebration and we had no extra car seats to send them home with people anyway.
Here we are outside one of the Hotels we searched in vain for our car keys. Our friends kindly offered all sorts of help and to take our picture.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJK9FKAwDFi7ysyruMxWlaK9x7woiLYlko5jxHDpk5e0fPuMkWWFf3It4-i8zYyosvENA0IqCKwtc3YzDtrwh3QAoHK5QPNUhvajNN7vkbXNvVhErBmj8FLxRnyrVmresF1CJi6E3i07I/s1600/IMG_2384.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="298" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJK9FKAwDFi7ysyruMxWlaK9x7woiLYlko5jxHDpk5e0fPuMkWWFf3It4-i8zYyosvENA0IqCKwtc3YzDtrwh3QAoHK5QPNUhvajNN7vkbXNvVhErBmj8FLxRnyrVmresF1CJi6E3i07I/s400/IMG_2384.jpg" /></a></div>
In the end, the only thing that could be done (and should have been done in the beginning) was to pray. So as a family, we gathered together and asked for help. We needed to find the keys to get home to the packers, get food in the kids, and get out of our too hot for Texas clothes. The prayer was short but sincere. Then, looking back one more time at our seats, I found the keys wedge between our seats. Tiago and I were the ones who found them and we instantly said a prayer of gratitude. Several prayers of thanks later, we walked to our car, keys in hand. And on back to our miraculous adventure called moving.
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poor quality due to iPhone video capacity while holding an infant and trying to walk in crouched position walking sidewaysTOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-35627432557671296402012-05-14T13:30:00.000-07:002012-05-14T13:30:23.155-07:00Breakfast In BedFor mother's day, the kids made me breakfast in bed (which due to time restraints for making it to our 8:00 am choir practice before church at 8:30 meant we all ate quickly on the table downstairs. The kids have been getting a lot of breakfast in bed practice. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFULirOP7huebqZoCJ4N2zEtcwhOCSXUvJv3CZ1mvcePYweuZs30oz5NHY6VkvMq-Zq2Tadllm1RCewMZYBjLbGl5bav6qbfrDWich6FpxfvJy8uDvzS3fJOM6GpVZbZQdv6QPk1pFLds/s1600/IMG_8797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="299" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFULirOP7huebqZoCJ4N2zEtcwhOCSXUvJv3CZ1mvcePYweuZs30oz5NHY6VkvMq-Zq2Tadllm1RCewMZYBjLbGl5bav6qbfrDWich6FpxfvJy8uDvzS3fJOM6GpVZbZQdv6QPk1pFLds/s400/IMG_8797.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_MCk8qnIXGDJCjG6Z6sV8FveGzZTzCjQ5JRJRR13QufFdsWgbf11WudezElB3MhnD0l3aEo15VNsssJHgpTNTQio9xwc7UvVadWzomR7xMnytIRKlshjXLwXBwOy43b6F1_9BnRVbIK0/s1600/IMG_8784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_MCk8qnIXGDJCjG6Z6sV8FveGzZTzCjQ5JRJRR13QufFdsWgbf11WudezElB3MhnD0l3aEo15VNsssJHgpTNTQio9xwc7UvVadWzomR7xMnytIRKlshjXLwXBwOy43b6F1_9BnRVbIK0/s400/IMG_8784.JPG" /></a></div>
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All three of these pictures were from different breakfasts brought to me in bed. I must say that I live a spoiled life. I often hear them up and making things and yet fall back to sleep until I hear the clanking of plates against the cookie sheet they use for a tray. So sweet.TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180736002224527584.post-42178597913704778392012-05-05T15:25:00.002-07:002012-05-05T15:25:58.878-07:00Cinco De MayoAlthough this was taken a couple months ago, I thought it fit the spirit of the day!! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Jy1kMzDwR8fxI8EOpkuhfUVgho_fcW1c8hajWpVI6nkIKF9McjBYIMCuVlC0eSK0Vz2kPDMb3ECpmhqbR1cUuHs8gCffTyYyL-NZrSwaYIhQLNyFWr0wbHAoQdMV9p_lyJB9u-e-ZF8/s1600/IMG_0769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Jy1kMzDwR8fxI8EOpkuhfUVgho_fcW1c8hajWpVI6nkIKF9McjBYIMCuVlC0eSK0Vz2kPDMb3ECpmhqbR1cUuHs8gCffTyYyL-NZrSwaYIhQLNyFWr0wbHAoQdMV9p_lyJB9u-e-ZF8/s400/IMG_0769.JPG" /></a></div>TOVARhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01732816665622387141noreply@blogger.com2