Deaf...sick....weak...deaf again.

Story of my life, this week. Seriously hope to get better before this weekend. Mama McK is in town. I cannot pass up any chance I get to see her. Plus, I'm really looking forward to watching the Super Bowl with Levi. Dang this cold...just go away already! At least I've had alot of time to catch up on reading. Ok, but really, I can't wait to get feeling better. Soon!! I can feel it!

Brothers.

For the last week, the thought of my brothers have weighed heavy on my mind. I have two older brothers; Dave is 17 years my senior, and then there's Wayne, who is 11 years older.  Growing up, I was closer to Wayne because he was a lil closer in age, and our birthdays are a day apart.  He always made me laugh and was just fun to be around.  Eventually, my relationship with Dave grew and he became like second Dad to me.  I was very grateful for the overprotective natures of my older brothers.
When I was 16, Wayne moved out and then got married.  It wasn't the most agreeable situation of which the marriage took place, but I tried to support my brother. Eventually, our relationship changed and we grew very distant. About 3.5 years ago, my relationship with my oldest brother changed extremely. Because of that, it also affected my relationship with Wayne.  Now, my brothers and I are estranged from each other. We don't necessarily agree with each others' lives and choices.
This past week, I dreamt that my sister was getting remarried and my brothers were there at her reception.  I saw my brother Wayne and wanted to talk with him. I approached him and tried to talk to him, but he kept backing away. He pulled out nunchucks and wanted to use them on me. I just wanted to talk to him, and try to reconnect. Unfortunately, we didn't get to talk and I woke up. Two nights ago, I had a dream that my brother Dave and I were in a kitchen, sitting down at the table. I tried to reach out to him, so we could talk, but he pulled away. I wanted to talk because I wasn't happy with what our relationship had turned into. He didn't want to talk, and he wasn't the same brother I had known--which felt very similar to real life.  Again, I tried to talk with him but he didn't budge.
I miss my brothers. I miss who they were. They're foreign to me now.  Our lives are unknown to each other.  I don't know if and when I'll talk to them again. I think there's too much hurt and pride in the way for us to communicate with each other.  It's unfortunate.  Perhaps Dave is hurt that I decided to stick by my sister [ex sister-in-law] after he made certain choices.  I've told my Mom that I miss my brothers, because I know she still has a relationship with them.  However, I don't know if that'll really make a difference between my brothers us I.  I'm thankful for the good memories I had of my brothers.  Those are the stories I'll share with my children, someday.

Let It Be.

Dear Ehu,

How are you?  How have you been feeling lately?  A lil stressed, it sounds like.  What have you been doing to alleviate feeling overwhelmed and stressed?  Have you been to your "thinking spot" lately? I know you thought about it the other night, but sometimes, you need to unwind and get your mind off of things.  Don't sweat the small stuff.  You know Peej has always told you not to over think things.  Mr. Red told you that 90% of the things we worry about doesn't happen.  Levi has even told you that there will be bigger things to worry about later, why worry about the small stuff now.  
I know you come from a family, more so parents, who over-worry and over-think.  But you don't have to be ANYTHING like them.   It's A-OK to breathe, "let it be" and enjoy life.  

Seriously, it's okay.   

Just think, 90% of the things you worry about WON'T  HAPPEN. So get it through your thick head....soon, because there's TOO much of life to experience....to enjoy....TO LIVE!  Isn't life great?  You KNOW that it is.  So get out there....breathe and "let it be".  
Because every minute you waste worrying, is 60 seconds of happiness you've let go of. 

Sincerely,
Me.  

p.s. 

So in case worry starts to creep in, try this out. You'll thank yourself...plus, girl, do you really want wrinkles to start?! ;)

1. 80-90 percent of what you fear will happen never really come into reality.

2. Don’t mountains out of molehills.

     a. Zoom out. 

     b. Bring awareness to you own thought patterns.

     c. Realize that much of this is in your head.

3. Let go of that familiarity and certainty.

4. Focus on a solution.

5. Tomorrow will come anyway. Live and fully enjoy here and now.

Oil & Water.

The other night,  I was kickin' it with my two nephews and man, could they be any more different from each other.  Heaven knows that they are polar opposites...and they know it too.  The youngest one, Kalanster use to like pushing Sim's buttons--I think he probably still does.  To sum it up, they're like oil and water.

Well, it was fun gettin' to just kick it with them and talk.  They don't see me as an "aunt" and I'm truly grateful for that.  Especially, since I'm not really close with my aunts.  I don't quite see them as nephews, but more like younger brothers.  However, I think we still respect each others' roles as nephews & aunt.  
The other night, I wanted a brutal honest opinion from them and Sim was still kind about it.  If I pose the same request from Kalanster, it's a lot harsher, but still honest.  Kalanster and I are pretty open about different topics and I value that in our relationship.  I don't disclose things that I shouldn't, as an aunt, but I appreciate the honesty we have with each other.  
I'm truly grateful for the close relationship that we've cultivated, over the years.  They're my closest friends and my favorite family members.  I love them, as well as my other nephew & niece oh so much.    I'm pretty dang lucky, if I do say so myself.

Young Women's Volleyball

I just got home from coaching my ol' family ward's Young Women's Volleyball team.  My sister and I were trying to figure out how many years I've been doing this, and to be honest, I'm not exactly sure.  I know I've been doing this every winter/spring since I was 19, with the exception of my mission and school in Utah....so about 10-11 years.  Some of the girls from my earlier teams are now married with about 2-3 kids.  Wow! I just can't believe it... I feel a lil old.  But then again, those girls were just a few years younger than me, so it not that odd. 
I love coaching the YW.  I have so much fun with them.  This past Sunday, when I saw a few of them at church, they were so excited to have me back to coach them.  I don't know exactly why they enjoy it so much.  I guess cause I tease them and try to be more of a friend than a leader, but I'm also serious about the game of Volleyball and it shows.  I love the YW.  Some of the girls I'm now coaching, were ones that I babysat as a teenager.  Oh wow... I'm making myself feel older and older.  
As I was cleaning out my closet, I found my "Coach of the Year" plaque from 2000 and my framed & signed teamed photo from 2011.  It makes me a lil nostalgic.  I miss some of those older YW, they've become close friends.  I'm always elated when a YW comes back and tells me they decided to join their school team, after playing church Vball.  I make it a point to go to at least one of their school games, because my heart is just filled with so much love and happiness that they've come to embrace this sport that I love so dearly.  
Who knows what this season of church Vball will bring.  I know, that in the end, it doesn't matter how many games they win, but if they felt like they truly tried their best. That's all I can ask.  

Drive In Date!

Yesterday, Levi and I had a hard time trying to decide what we were going to do for a date.  At the last minute we decided we'd try the drive in, to see Mama....and luckily at the drive-in, it's always a two-for-one special, for $7!  I haven't been to the South Bay drive-in since Lion King came out, mid-90's. 
Oh man, can I just say that I am now the biggest fan of drive in theaters!! Seriously, I LOOOOOOVED it!!!!!  

1. 2 movies for $7 (one admission)

2. Volume control - which was great since my ears are congested. 

3. I can talk, comment and crack jokes as much as I want. 

4. We can bring in food, drinks and blankets.  

5. Seat control.

6. I can stand whenever I want, walk around and just stretch at any time. 

7. Listening to the oldies music, before the [drive-in] movie, made me feel like we were in 1950's.

I'm a huge fan of just being able to move around and make noise as much as I want.  Besides, it was just a fun date.  As much as I love going on movie dates, it's hard to connect with someone during the movie. However, at a drive-in it's ok to talk as much as you want -  as long as the other person/people with you don't mind. {So glad Levi is SO easy going.}  Last night was probably one of my top 3 favorite dates with Levi! I would HIGHLY recommend everyone and anyone to head to a drive-in near them! SOON!

A letter to Filippi.

Dear Filippi,

I don't know who you are, but your pizza is AMAZING.  It's one of my most favorite places to eat pizza here in San Diego.  I've been to 4 of your different locations, but I surely enjoy the Little Italy location the most.  The food just tastes a lot better there.  I love your pizza! I love the amount of cheese that's on all of your pizzas, it's the perfect amount!  Plus, your Antipasto salad is just scrumptious!  Probably one of my most favorite salads to eat!

We also enjoyed our server, Colleen.  She was the best server I've ever had, at your restaurant.  Her service was wonderful and we truly appreciated her cookie recommendations.  The thing I love the most, about your Little Italy location, is the front store, deli & bakery.  I always wanted to try your cookies, but the lines was way too long and it was way too cramped to stand in.  Thankfully, it was a lil less crowded and we were in a mood to try your cookies.  My sister loves your marzipan cookies, while I savored your Italian wedding cookies. All in all, your cookies were delectable! All these years I didn't know what I was missing!!  Never again will I leave your fine establishment without snagging me some cookies!  

Thanks again for your delicious pizza, hospitable service and tasty cookies.  I'll definitely be coming back soon!

-Ehu.

Sunday, February 10

CHINESE NEW YEAR!!!

Oh yeah

I can't wait

It's my favorite holiday!

Helloooooo chopsticks!

FHE Monday & Free Tuesday.

I'm really starting to enjoy my ward, more and more.  I've made some great friends in the last year and FHE has been more enjoyable.  This past Monday night, we played Family Feud: Battle of the Sexes.  It was rather fun and I was grateful for all the friends that came out!

Especially this friend....he's just so dang cute!

I'm also really glad that Mac is back in town and HOPE to have him back on my FHE committee.  He's just such a fun cool guy and he also gave such a wonderful lesson on Family.  Towards the end of his lesson, he gave us two minutes to text or call a family member.  How neat is that?  I texted my Mom to thank her for the dinner she sent me to FHE with.... and in the meanwhile got a sweet text from Levi.
After FHE, there was basketball practice and some [double dutch] jump roping going on...

I think the reaction on his face is the BEST part! 

I'm so glad that I stuck with the ward.  I'm grateful for a Home Teacher that advised me that "the more I put into it something, the more I get out of it"--it couldn't more true for my ward and the friends I've made.
Luckily, Levi had Tuesday off, so we were able to spend the day together.  Since it was Tuesday and Balboa Park has certain museums that have free admission for SD residents, we cruised on down to the BP and had some chill time....with a lot of other SD residents.  We went to the Japanese Friendship Garden, the Museum of Man and Mingei International Museum. It was fun being a lil more cultured.  The weather was just right and it was fun being together mid-week, during the day.

Afterwards, we went to Fuddruckers for linner {lunch + dinner}.  Growing up, we use to go there all the time, but I never really enjoyed it.  It was only after I was with Levi, did I realize that greatness of the Swiss Melt burger and the joy of jalapeno cheese on fries.  Oh man, do I love that place now!! Sooo delicioussssss! All in all, it was a pretty fantastical day!

My love of baseball.

I had been wanting to see this movie, while it was out in theaters.  Unfortunately, I wasn't able to, so I bought it once it hit the store.  I'm glad I did.  I enjoyed it.  Every time I watch it, it makes me so excited for baseball season! I. LOVE. BASEBALL.!!!

The first time I watched Trouble with the Curve, it brought tears to my eyes.  In the movie, it shares the troubled relationship Mickey has with her father, Gus.  Yet, the one thing they share is their love for baseball.   Everything she learned about baseball, came from watching her father scout potential pro-ball players. 

Just watching this movie made me think back about all the baseball games I use to watch with my Dad, while he still had his eyesight.  I loved kicking back with him and watching all those games.  It was so much fun.  He would explain little things to me, or tell me about ol' time SD Padres players.  He loves ALL sports, but he would follow baseball the closest.  When his eyesight started to go, he would try his best to continue reading the baseball stats/summary in the newspaper with his magnifying glass.  It wasn't long after that he would start to ask me to read them to him.  I enjoyed those times.  Now that he's blind, he listens to his baseball/sports games on the radio.  He's a die hard fan.  He even has my Mom set the radio to his sports station. I love that my Dad loves baseball.  I'm so grateful that we have our love of baseball to help bond us even more. 

Valentines Day....

I FINALLY watched Valentines Day and man, that was pretty funny! Mamacita had been telling me about this movie for years, and I wish I watched it sooner!  I also like the movie, I Hate Valentines Day--so dang funny. 
As I've been looking up Valentines ideas on Pinterest, for my niece, I can't help but look forward to Valentines Day!  Growing up, my Dad always made a big deal about it.  He always went to See's Candy to get a box of candy for my Mom and I, and then later my sister when she married into the family.  We'd also receive a bouquet of flowers, along with our chocolates.  I remember one particular Valentines Day, when I was 12, he took us all to Tom Hams Lighthouse restaurant for a lovely dinner. Even though he's blind now,  he still makes sure I buy chocolates and flowers for him, to give to my Mom.  I'm glad he still makes a big deal out of Valentines Day, for her, my sister, niece & I.  That's probably my favorite thing about my Dad. 
But I'm excited for Valentines Day.  I think it's because Christmas was so much fun decorating for and celebrating.  

I think I'll go buy myself some pink roses on Valentines Day.  Every time I see them at Costco, I can't help but want to buy them....but I'm usually on my way to somewhere else and I don't want them to just sit in the car.  Pink roses are my favorite flowers.  I think they're just so pretty and girly, and I love them more than red roses.  I can't wait for Valentines Day.... I just might go buy them sooner than that.  
Oh Valentines Day.....you've already got me twitterpated. 

K*Pasta Sr. Rojo!

Last Thursday, I went out to dinner with Mr. Red.  I haven't really hung out with him since my birthday so I've missed our walk & talks.  There's just been a lot to catch up on.   He's one of my favorite people to talk with.  I'm glad that there never needs to be a filter on the things we say to each other.  He's been the best friend I've needed since Bugs went MIA this past summer.  I'm going to miss him when he's finished with the Navy, in April.   He has big plans before school starts up in the fall, but I'm glad he'll be available, via phone.
I hate saying good bye to friends.  I feel like most of my dearest friends live so far away. 
I miss my very best friend, MamaSteph and I dream of the day we get to hang out in person.  It's been 5 years since we last saw each other, up in SLC.  HOPEFULLY, I'll get to go to Virginia for the film archivist conference, because that'll put me 2 hours away from her in North Carolina.  Oh I miss her SO much.  She's the comfortable friend that I can sit in silence with and all is okay.  Even just texting with her, the other night, makes me miss her and our mission days together when we were together 24/7.

I can't wait til I never have to say good bye to the closest friend I'll make in this life.  I look forward to that time in life, someday soon enough...

Addicted.

Yeaaaaaah..... I can't help it, I'm addicted. 

I see one pin...then I'm on another board...and then pinning more pins.... {then repeat}

There's just so many different ideas that I want to remember them all, so I'm repinning all over my boards!  

Lately, I've been checking out Valentines Day pins, for my niece....which makes me look forward to Valentines Day!  There's so many cool Valentines ideas, for her, that I actually want to make some and pass them out to my friends.  Yeah yeah, I'm 32 but I think it's ok to celebrate holidays....by passing out Valentines to close friends.  Besides, I know I would be totally ok if a friend gave me a Valetines--I'm just saying. You're never too old to celebrate love.

A new Bishopric @ CVYSA

Yesterday, a new Bishopric was called in my ol' CVYSA ward.  Bishop Lars has become a very dear and special person to me.  He will always have a special place in my heart.  I couldn't have come across him at a more perfect time in my life.  I thank my Heavenly Father for placing him in my life, just when I needed him most. 

CVYSA has found a special place in my heart, as well.  Some of my very favorite friends were found in my last year of ysa.  I'm so thankful that such cherish friendships were made!  I love all of my CV friends dearly and wish I could see them more often.  When I do, I'm glad that I'm always received with such open arms and warm hearts.  I love all of them and miss them when its such long periods before I reunite with them. 

Thank you Heavenly Father for such wonderful friends!

Happy Birthday Levi!

This past Thursday was Levi's birthday.  I like to make a big deal out of birthdays, because I think it should be a special day for that special someone.   I know I'm a lil late, but I always like to dedicate a blog post to the birthday-ee.... so here's my top 10 reasons why Levi is pretty dang special to me.

*He makes me laugh! He's so quick-witted! Sometimes my cheeks hurt from laughing so hard! He is SO. MUCH. FUN.!!!

*He's extremely kind & caring! He puts others before himself.  He always has a sense of "taking care of me", which makes me want to reciprocate all of his generosity. 

*I LOVE the fact that he ALWAYS opens my car door.  It makes me feel like a lady.  I've always wanted a man who would do this for me. In turn, I like to lean over to unlock his door.

*He's so tremendously patient & easy going!  Which helps because I'm rather impatient....so it kinda rubs off on me. 

*Even though we don't share the same religion, he's never been antagonistic.  In fact, he's so supportive of it, as well as my ward calling. 

*He's intelligent! I like the fact that he likes to read.  Especially since he knows a whole lot about a whole LOT of things. I've always liked someone who's a 'jack of all trades'.  

*He's cute! Oh man, I think he is so hot when he smiles & laughs! I LOVE it! How'd I get so lucky to find someone this hot, smart AND funny! I can't help but stare at his face, at times. 

*He knows how to be a man! I love how manly he is! Especially how gentlemanly he always is, with me. 

*He spoils me....not just with tangible stuff, but with his love, attention and affection.  Something I've been longing for, for a very long time.

*Life is just so much more better with him.  Life is A LOT more fun, more enriching and just all around amazing...with him.

Happy {belated} birthday, sweetheart.

A New Year and a GREAT day!

January 1:

It started off with a DELICIOUS breakfast made by Levi.  Seriously, it was the best homemade breakfast I've ever had!! Perfectly made french toast, scrambled eggs with cheese and green peppers, breakfast potatoes, sausage and bacon.  I am VERY particular about my eggs and he's cooked them PERFECTLY every time! I'm glad he's so aware of my needs!  Such a TREMENDOUS morning!  Probably my favorite morning all year.  ;)

We ran an errand at Target, then headed down to Balboa Park so we could check out the free museums and an organ recital.  It was also a good day to use the new Rebel, too.  We had the opportunity to take a tour of the back of the organ pavilion in Balboa Park.  So cool!!  While in line, I took this photo:

I was fascinated with his shoes & socks combination.  Besides, we were in line for a while, so I couldn't help but notice his legs and feet.  

Balboa Park was a lot of fun, with Levi.  I love walking, talking and laughing with him.  

Afterwards, we headed to Slaters 50/50 to celebrate his upcoming birthday {tomorrow}. He's been wanting to try out Slaters since our second date.  It only seemed fitting that we finally go there.....and man, was it TOTALLY worth it!! It was the best hamburger I've EVER had!!  But then again, I got to customize it.  I created "The A-Who?" and it was PERFECTION!!! {The A-Who? = 1/3 lb. Medium rare 50/50 patty, sauteed mushrooms & onions, baby greens, mozzarella, peppercinis, tomato w/ honey mustard and ranch}

SO.  FRIGGIN.  DELICIOUS.!!!

I tried to have our server sing to him, but she got a lil busy.  However, she was kind enough to put his birthday dessert on the house.  Man, I'm craving a Cherry Coke now...

We wanted to try to see Django, but it was sold out at Fashion Valley AMC.  Oh well.... a movie for another date.  

I had such a wonderful New Years day with him.  Even when it takes us forever to find parking or get a lil lost trying to find a new restaurant, I still have the best of times with him! What a wonderful way to start off a new year!