"My Cousin!"

A few weeks ago we went down to San Diego to visit Mat's brother and his family. We love going down to see them because they are so fun and we always have a good time. Lana was good for the ride down there because she knew we were going to see her cousin, Ekana and she was so excited. Even though he's 5 and more mature and grown up, he's so patient with her and such a good cousin. She thinks his room is a wonderland with all his cool toys and I love watching them play together. She'll just follow him and is always curious to see what he's doing. I also like to see the age difference because it's the same as me and my little brother, Mike and also the same spacing that I wanted for Lana and her brother/sister. Anyway, Bryan, Donna and Ekana- thank you so much for letting us crash at your house and for cooking us some ono loco moco! We love you guys and hope to get together soon!

I was going through our "box of Christmas stuff" the beginning of the month and while I was rummaging through it, Lana found a bag of bows and went to town decorating her books. "Merry Christmas, Mommy! Don't open it!"

Playtime

Our go-to park: Northridge. We love to come to this park and just hang out. Lana especially loves when our friends come with us. Here is a great picture of Starlet, Lana and baby Shawn. Lana is learning from Starlet how to pump her legs and swing by herself. Even though there are a lot of threats of a time-out and leaving the park because of lack of sharing and other things, overall we always have a fun time!

The other picture is of Veronica and Lana cruising around the Enos' apartment. They were being very independent and having fun pretending to go "shopping" with their backpacks. Meanwhile, Jackie and I were being "old" and making aprons with our sewing machines. I've had bad experiences with sewing recently so it was really nice to be motivated to start up again. Thanks Jackie! Here's to more projects on the way...

Jealous

Mat had another trip to D.C. for work. This time Lana and I didn't get to go even though we really wish we could have tagged along. I was doing alright I think while Mat was gone even though we really missed him a lot. I got by without cooking real meals, being lazy and hanging out with friends. I watched chick flicks and all my favorite shows. BUT at night I get really scared. For three nights in a row I couldn't sleep! I'd get up like every hour, check the clock, look at the door and then try and get back to sleep. Mat usually sleeps next to the door so with him gone I felt like someone would come in and grab me since I was right there next to the door. AHH, crazy, I know. I had Lana sleep with me and (this is good) I tried to have her sleep on the outside of the bed (where Mat does) and she wouldn't have it. Haha. So much for tricking her.

Anyway, I thought I was handling things alright until I get a text from the Nielsens- a picture of Mat, Giff, and cute little Maddox. That's when I got really jealous and just wished we could have gone too. I really miss my buddies from Maryland. But, I am glad that Mat got to see Stephen and the Nielsens. They're the best. LOVE YOU GUYS!

"Turkey-Lurkey!"

We had a WONDERFUL Thanksgiving holiday! We did miss our family that's spread out over the globe: Maui, Oahu, all over California, Idaho, Utah, Kansas, Florida and Peru. Our awesome friends, Jeff, Jackie, Veronica and David had us over to join them for the holiday. This was so gracious of them and the feeling I had of love, friendship and gratitude for them was overwhelming. I discovered a saying this year that I've come to really relate to: "Friends are like family you find along the way." I look at the amazing friends that I've come to know in my life and feel that they really do become my family in so many ways. Jackie did a fantastic job of cooking and everything looked so pretty (two separate accomplishments in my eyes). We had a nice meal and looking back it's funny because Lana was asleep for the first part and then played under the table with Veronica for the rest of it. She's usually the one that says, "I WANT FOOD!" but she held out pretty much until we got home and dove into the left-overs (again, thanks to the Enos family!). I hope everyone else had a great Thanksgiving as well and felt true gratitude for the many blessings that the Lord showers upon us. Is it just me or is time really starting to fly by?!

Thuch a thweet lithp

Lana, "I'm tho nithe. I give lotths of hugths and kitheth."

Translation: "I'm so nice. I give lots of hugs and kisses."

Gotta listen to the boss...

I've been on the computer for a while now trying to order some pictures off of snapfish.com. I was about to do a post on this blog when Lana comes up just now and says, "That's enough computer, mom!" Looks like I'd better get going and pay attention to her.

How much do I love doing the dishes?

The other day I was in the kitchen fixing dinner. Lana loves to join me and help out in any way she can- mixing, pouring, throwing things in a bowl, etc. While I'm by the stove, Lana pulls up a chair and says she's going to do the dishes. (Can't argue with that) She turns the water on and starts moving the plates around and just kinda playing in the water. Right as I'm turning to her to turn the water off she throws down the spoon she's holding and says very fervently, "I'm SO SICK OF THIS!" I couldn't help but just crack up because it was absolutely the most perfect impression of myself done by my 2 year old daughter. I guess someone has been listening to my complaints after all. Thanks for helping Lana-girl!

For Halloween Lana and I headed over to a Pumpkin Patch not too far from where we live. Poor Mat was at work and missed out on our little excursion. Last year we visited the same pumpkin patch and Lana did a few things but was too small to really enjoy all the fun activities they have. This time around she went everywhere: to the petting zoo, up to the top of the haystack with the other kids, rode on the carousel and train and even did the big slide! She liked pointing out all the pumpkins and I had fun spotting out all the cute costumes the kids were wearing. It was nice going there in the early afternoon because it wasn't too crowded and all the parents were pretty laid back. In the past Lana has been VERY apprehensive when it has come to swings and big slides. This year they had a big bouncy slide and she insisted that we do that before we left. So...I though I'd let her get a closer look to see if she changed her mind and she didn't. She made a little friend there and this little girl helped her all the way to the top and then they slid down giggling together and climbed up again. This was repeated over and over until the boy who was manning the booth at the time picked both girls up and carried them to the top. HA! What a guy. Lana had a lot of fun and I was glad we went.

Ok. Lana has been telling me for the longest time that she wanted to be "a mean Captain Hook" for Halloween. (Peter Pan is one of her favorite movies). So I bought her a hat, patch, hook, fake earring...the whole pirate gear. While we were getting ready to go out trick-o-treating she decided she wanted to be a butterfly and would not (absolutely would not) put on the pirate outfit. DANG IT! So, I put together a last minute butterfly costume and thought I'd take a picture before we left. She looks miserable in the picture because I told her not to rub her face or the make-up would come off. I think that made her want to rub her face even more. Happy times. Once we got some candy she was fine. Imagine that! We had a great time trick-o-treating and I think Mat and I will enjoy next year even more cause we're gonna think of some sick costumes!

Our Spooky Treats

 

Lana was my little helper as we made some spooky treats for our play group. Our feast consisted of: cheese fingers, bone breadsticks, broomstick pretzels and apple teeth. It was so fun to make some weird food and just be silly together. Lana was so excited to see her friends at the play group since we've been out of town for a while and she worked hard to put this together with me. She also made some pumpkin playdough which turned out to be really gooey. Without hesitation, she'll dive in and get down and dirty when it comes to crafty things, but then she enjoys cleaning herself up right away. So, I think she gets the first part from me and the second part from Mat!

I'm so grateful to have cool moms to hang out with. Though I don't get to see everyone as often as I'd like to, I do get a kick out of seeing Lana interact and enjoy her playtime with her friends. And I love having adult conversations and insights into the lives of other moms who seem to me like they do it all!

Hawaii Trip Continued

As part III of our Hawaii trip, we take you back to Oahu. This last week was really all about cramming in all our favorite things. Talk about happiness overload! We went to our favorite family beach- Hukilau, visited our favorite Hawaii friends, ate our favorite snacks, reminisced our old stomping grounds of BYUH, TVA, Temple, etc. Mat and I visited our old office at BYUH: Human Resources and were so happy to see familiar faces. Good ole Travis is still there and I was so happy to see him and that he's doing so well. He's a big part of all my favorite memories of BYUH. Katrina- I saw Johnson Mak! Remember him? One of my old teachers, Bro. Kaanga, remembered me and I was so happy. Especially considering that I wasn't an outstanding student in any way. I think Mat was the popular one cause it seemed like he was running into old friends left and right. We had a nice time hanging out with the Bybee Ohana and catching up on all their little adventures. Their kids couldn't get any cuter. Dave and Mat were cracking up at all their old memories and I have to admit that the bear-spray-dog-attack was a great one. Great times in Laie.

We even went back to our favorite movie rental place which is now called "Ohana Video." Lana and I took a trip back out to the North Shore and went for a nice stroll and hung out on the beach where we spotted a turtle. Hawaii beaches are the best!

The biggest Mahalo goes to David and Carol and Aaron Yuen. How much sweeter can you get: they met us for dinner, played a bit, took us for Cold Stone ice cream, met us at the beach, let us shower at their place, took us for L&L's, and then met us at the beach AGAIN and then lent us their house to shower and get ready while their out of town. We got a huge kick at how Aaron and Lana hit it off. They gave each other a kiss and it was cute and then they just kept kissing so Carol and I had to hold 'em back! One time Aaron even tried to crawl onto Lana's car seat! Carol, you are such a great friend and I've loved every second of our friendship. It's so wonderful to see how we've grown, and changed, and in a lot of ways stayed the same. It's also wonderful to see how we (and the boys) have morphed into parents and are enjoying this stage of our lives. We love you guys and really appreciate your friendship!!

ENOS CAR SPOTTED

Mat and I got so excited when we saw our friends car in Maui. Then we were like, "oh...I guess it can't be them." But it would have been so cool if it really was. We were following this car for a little while to get a good picture. I wonder if we freaked them out. HA! We were thinking of you guys Jeff, Jackie and kids!

Maui Wowie

Everyone should have a place that they can go to where they just feel relaxed, refreshed and can appreciate the beauty in the world around us. For me (and I'm pretty sure Mat will agree) that place is Maui. Not only is it the most beautiful place ever, the people are super nice and friendly. We eagerly hopped on the plane to head over from Oahu to Maui. I especially love these little trips because it's one of the rare times that the three of us travel together. Usually Lana and I are together and I feel like sometimes I barely survive those trips. So, on these trips with Mat I make sure that he and Lana get the seats close to the window and let them spend some quality time together while I get to relax...for 30 minutes! Haha, too bad for me that the Maui flights are the shortest ones! I think the longest trip I've been on with Lana was from Maryland to Hawaii. Whew. Now that one was killer.

When we arrived in Maui, we got our luggage pretty quick and found Dad's car in the lot. It was so nice of him to let us borrow it while he was out of town. It's pretty much tradition now to visit Mat's mom at the bank where she works. She is so sweet and always so excited to see us. We got to have the bank's VIP treatment and hang out with her after they closed. I actually have an aunt that works at the very same bank and it was nice to visit her too.

Lana was getting very excited to see her cousins at Grandma and Grandpa's house up-country so we made our way up there next. I don't think Lana could be any happier than when she saw her cousins: Kama, Noa, Avei and little Amira. She had the best time playing with them, running around and doing whatever they would do. Avei was so good with her (she recently became a big sister and you could tell because she took such great care of Lana). She gave Lana a tour of the house and toys and was just talking story with her. We were warned about how big Kama got since the last time we saw him but we were still amazed! He's was so tall! Noa showed us all his really great drawings and we have to admit- they were awesome. Avei impressed us with her Wii skills and we couldn't believe how much little Amira has grown! I just loved the fact that even though Amira was the youngest of the group, she certainly knew how to hold her own! We got to go to Noa's soccer game and see his sweet moves and then we got to cheer for Kama and the "Bears" for his football game. U'i turned 17!! She is such a lovable sister and the coolest auntie to Lana. (SAY, "SWIPER NO SWIPING!") I'm always so happy to hang out with her and sometimes I wish I were back in High School with her. We had so much fun celebrating with her and going to dinner and then we took all the kids to Fun Factory. Tickets, tickets, tickets everywhere! Dad and Mom were great and it was fun seeing Lana have a blast with her Grandma and Grandpa. Lana got to have an elite tour of the backyard by lawnmower! I would just crack up at all of the funny things that Mom got Lana to say in their little conversations. It was so nice to see Kaulana and Tali and what great parents they are- good role models for us!! And Mat had a lot of fun with his brothers and sister! Mike was off to Oahu for a few days for a jujitsu tournament (which he did pretty good in for his first time) but we did get to spend some time with him too. He's so patient with Lana when she makes him really work for those hugs! Of course our trip to the beach together was another great highlight. I'm glad that we're all a bunch of beach-bums! Oh- U'i thanks again for taking us to get the best shave ice in the world. YUM. I'm craving some right now...

Mat's mom was so nice to take off of work to hang out with us and take us around. Lana loved her time with Grandma and Uncle Chad. We got to go out to Iao Valley and Chad took us on a short little hike to a place where you can jump off a rock and into a little pond. I didn't have my bathing suit but I'm not sure if I would have jumped off even if I did! It was absolutely gorgeous and I loved every second of this trip. We then spent the day shopping and Lana lucked out with a pair of pink Crocs from Grandma. It was complete with "Minnie mouse, wall-e, and the bee from bee movie!" Thanks Mom! We couldn't get enough of our time together and enjoyed going for a walk through up-country Makawao and through Maui Mall- oh that GURI GURI was so yum. And we even were treated to a fabulous lunch out in Lahaina. Lana was chasing the birds for the most part of it, but we went for a nice stroll along the beach and saw some penguins at the Hilton! It was the perfect day and we had such a great time. I loved talking to Mom and hearing all the funny stories about the boys growing up.

Before we left we got to have one last get-together with Grandma, Grandpa, U'i and the Silifaiva's. We had an ono dinner and the best home-made fudge sundaes. We had a Wii challenge and also a jumping contest- the winners were Mat and Kama. Runners up: Avei and Noa. Honorable mentions: Lana and Amira. We even got to hear Tali's "internet song" which thanks to Avei's back up singing, we got stuck in our heads for the longest time. Noa was such a sweetheart and let Lana hug him pretty much all night. It was so cute. We love you guys!

Thank you everyone for making us feel so at home. Now Mat is counting down until we can move back there for good and hang out all the time. WE LOVE YOU!!

Pau Hana- summary of our 1st week in Hawaii

We finally made it back "home" to good 'ole California after 3 long wonderful weeks in Oahu and Maui. Yes, we had a pretty much perfect set-up being able to stay in Oahu for Mat's work the first week and then visit our family in Maui and spend a week there before going back to Oahu again. Each day was a blessing and we tried to make the most of it.

Every day Mat worked I would feel so guilty but grateful at the same time. I knew Lana and I would have a fun adventure while he'd be off working and we'd miss him but at the same time it's what made our trip possible so work on Mat, work on! haha. About three seconds after we got in our rental car Mat proceeded to reprogram the stations that we've missed for the passed couple of months. We stayed at the Marriott hotel in Waikiki and loved that we were so close to the beach! We'd swim at the beach and play and a few times when it got too dark to go to the beach, we'd swim at the hotel's pool and hot tub! There were two teenage girls in the hot tub with me and Lana one night and Lana was convinced that one of them was Ariel. She pointed to her and said, "Mom! It's the little mermaid, look!" I think it's probably because she was wearing a bikini top but what do I know.

We ate out A LOT at Zippy's, Like Like Drive Inn, Boston's Northend Pizza (personal family fave), Sumo Ramen (Tanigawa fave), L&L's (authentic kine- right Yuen's?) and even hit up the infamous Leonard's Bakery. SOOO good. But I do have to say the original malasadas are the best- don't be tempted by the one's with the fillings.

Since we were so close, we did get a chance to visit the Honolulu Zoo and Aquarium. They were fun afternoon trips and we got a kick out of watching the chimpanzee's eating their snack! Mat and I couldn't get over the fact that they were acting just like humans would. Their zookeeper was throwing food off a ledge to them and some were clapping their hands trying to get him to pay attention and throw some in their direction. Another chimp was watching where the zookeeper was going to throw it and threw himself in that direction to block the other chimp. Then there were those that just gave up and were laying on the ground in desperation. ANYWAY it was funny.

This is a very sad confession- I am from Oahu, but I am terrible at finding my way downtown Honolulu. Mat knows the island better than I do! But after this trip I can proudly say I am about 85% more confident. One of my favorite places to drive is from the Leeward side over to the Windward side. There's just something very powerful about coming out of that tunnel and taking in the stunning Ko'olau mountains. Ever since I was a little girl I've always felt so at home there and would look forward to that drive. Lana loves the mountains and I was so glad that she got to see the mountains I grew up with.

Around the end of this first week Lana was getting really lonely for some friends. She'd say, "I want to see Ronica!" (Veronica) or "I want to see Starlet and Beena and Lyssa!" (Starlet, Davina, Alyssa). So I was very excited for her to go to Maui and see all of her awesome cousins again! I know I was dying to get over there cause I really missed Mat's family and couldn't wait to see what everyone was up to. Sooo...I'll continue that story later!

TOURISTS!

Yes, we're in Hawaii and we're staying in Waikiki. We're shopping at the ABC stores, taking pictures of Diamond Head, paying $1 to get a picture of Elmo with a lei on and spending about $5.oo more for everything than we usually would. But, we're having a great time and it's fun to be back home! I can't wait to go to Maui next week. Sorry Oahu, but Maui's my favorite now!

"Do You Want To Form an Alliance with Me?"

This is how cool I am: I had a meeting tonight and when I got home around 8:30, I found that Mat and Lana were both sleeping. SCORE! I didn't know what to do with myself so I was on the computer for a little while, cleaned up the living room, and then decided to see what was on t.v. They had the final episode of last seasons "the Office!" I was so excited I turned it up (as loud as I could go without waking up the sleepyheads), made myself some popcorn (I even made it mochi-crunch style. yeah, that's right!) and was sitting on the edge of the couch laughing out loud at some parts. There's just something about that show that I can't get enough of. I don't laugh out loud very often when I watch tv, but the office will always do it for me. I'm just sad Mat missed out cause I know he would have loved vegging out with me. Come to think of it, today I even bought some magnets at target. One set was of Michael Scott and had a good quote: "I want people to be afraid of how much they love me." And the other set was Dwight with a picture of him looking through the blinds. So creepy it's funny. I always think of who everyone's favorites characters are. Mischa likes Kevin and Stanley, I think Jenna said she liked Toby, Mat likes Dwight and some of Andy's singing. Who are your favorites?

The Newest Pacada Ohana

I'd like to welcome the newest member of the Pacada clan: Kaitlyn Pacada. She and Michael tied the knot this past week in the Orlando, Florida temple. The sealing was very beautiful and it couldn't have been more perfect. It was really emotional for me to see my little brother (my little punk for so many years) all grown up, ready to start a new life with his sweetheart. We were all bawling but the Spirit was so strong and in that moment I had so many feelings going through me: peace, love, gratitude (for the time that our family did have Michael all to ourselves and the many memories we have together) , disbelief (that the day had come so quickly), sadness (that not all of our family was there), and joy to know that families can be together forever!!

The reception was fabulous! It was at a very nice house (generous hosts!) on a lake and while everything was being set up, we got to go jet-skiing and wake-boarding on the lake. I totally schooled Michael on the wake-board. That's probably the only thing I'll ever beat him in and it probably won't last. haha. It was an out-door event and started just as it was getting dark. The bridesmaids and groomsmen looked so nice and we got to visit, eat, dance and finally said our goodbyes and the couple took off on a jet-ski. So fun!

I'm still waiting on pictures from my mom & dad who have all the good ones, but Kaitlyn's mom just sent me a few fun ones from the reception. They were so nice to think of Shaefer who's on a mission in Peru right now and obviously not able to make it to the wedding. They made a cardboard cut-out of him (actually the body of JFK and Shaefer's face pasted on! ha!) that we took pictures with and had standing around during the reception. Kaitlyn's cousin even danced with him for a while!

I have to say that Michael is a lucky man and the two of them fit together quite nicely. I'm so excited for their future together and just hope that they start having their cute kids soon so Lana can have some Pacada cousins!

Shaka Brah

I was just sitting here at the computer and Lana comes up to me, flashes me the "shaka" sign and smiles. She's been practicing that move for the longest time and hasn't quite been able to do it right all by herself. Until now. It's funny how she's so proud. That's our girl!

BEST DADDY in the WORLD

This past weekend I was gone for Michael's wedding in Florida. (I'll post about that later when I have pictures to go along with it because it was AMAZING!!) Mat and Lana were on their own and this was the first time that I'd been away this long: 3 1/2 days. The day before I left I was driving with Lana in the car and that song by John Mayer came on "fathers be good to your daughters, daughters will love like you do, girls become lovers and turn into mothers, so mothers be good to your daughters too..." (or something like that) and I totally started crying! I had to keep blinking away the tears so I could see. The first day I was gone I called Lana to check and see how she was doing. I secretly thought that she'd be missing me like crazy and just be a mess. She was at her friend Veronica's house and she just told me she was playing with Veronica and it seemed like I was interrupting her playtime (EXCUSE ME!). Mat had her stuff packed when he dropped her off and he even got off of work early to pick her up. They went to the pool and played and he said she fell right to sleep at night with no problem. The next day when I called they were in the car and Lana was so excited cause daddy was taking her to buy a tent. "A big HUGE one!" she said. And when I got home on Sunday I found out that she got super-sick the night before throwing up everywhere! Poor Mat was all by himself to take care of her and he did a good job! When I walked in the door I saw the big huge tent set up in the living room, and Lana was asleep in the bedroom with a big bucket next to her! Haha. When she got up she told me all about her weekend and said that she had fun with daddy, she was good girl and then she got sick and daddy took care of her. He even gave her a blessing. So, Mat, here's to you and your mad daddy skills. WE LOVE YOU!!

Little Brother...Big Move

My biggest little brother, Michael, is getting married in about a week. I can't believe it!! It's such a big move and I'm very excited for him. I was just taking a trip down memory lane and found this picture of me and Mike at my wedding a few years ago. I wonder if his bride-to-be has seen his "gorilla" look. Also, check out all the cute girls and boys in the family. They look way young in these pictures compared to what they look like now!

ICE QUEEN meets PRINCE CHARMING

I had the worst day EVER last week. I wasn't feeling well, I was a bit tired, I was grumpy...you name it. Everything was bothering me and I had a mean and snippy comeback for everything. Poor Lana was stuck with me all day and the minute Mat came home from work I walked right into the bedroom shut the door and jumped into bed. I woke up from my coma a few hours later to find out that Mat had taken Lana out shopping, brought back some dinner and they bought me some roses. Mat had Lana give them to me with a big hug and kiss and said, "Look what we got you, mom! Feel better?" Yes, thank you guys! I have the best husband ever! And we made a nice little munchkin, too. Thanks for putting up with your grumpy wife/mom.

Too much information

Thanks to Jenna- I usually don't do these, but I had so much fun reading yours that I couldn't resist the challenge! MISS YOU, GIRL!


Where were you born? Honolulu, Hawaii. No matter where I go...the islands will always call me back home.

Middle name? Ok, I can't beat Jenna's middle name. What a cute story! Uh, my middle name is "Jo" and I do love it. It's my mom's and now little Lana's middle name too!

How old will you be this year? 25. Now I can rent a car. So weird that I could be married with a 2 year old and finally just barely be able to rent a car.

Nicknames? ummm...not really anymore. When my little sister was a baby she called me "Nina." And one of my friends (haole girl from Cali) wanted to start calling me "shi-shi" as a nickname and I had to explain to her that it was NOT A GOOD IDEA! I didn't want to explain why because, just as I suspected, it would make her want to say it more.

Are you taller than your mother or father? Try "the shortest person in my family PERIOD. No, how about EXCLAMATION MARK." So not fair. Maybe in the next life they'll throw me a few more inches to my height. Or a nice pair of permanent heels.

Do you cry often during movies? Yes, but not too often. Even though I've tried to re-program my mid-movie tears after being made fun of by my brothers, there's just some movies that will ALWAYS do it for me. Two of them being: "An Affair to Remember" and "the Fox and the Hound." I named those two cause I cried very recently while watching them. I even tried to toughen up and syke myself out during the happy parts and then...BAM...there go the tears.

What is your biggest pet peeve? When people honk excessively in traffic and the person they are honking at CAN'T DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT!!! In Maryland I once drove home very slowly and purposely blocked this lady from passing from behind me because she wouldn't stop honking and freaking out. It was so bad how much pleasure I got from making her loose her mind. Just thinking about it brings a smile to my face.

Favorite color(s)? I like green now. Lots of different shades of green. Before that was red, black, blue, and when I was in elementary school liked pink, purple and turquoise. And they had to be together.

Favorite food(s)? It's near impossible for me to turn down ice cream. My new favorite food (all of us Tanigawas actually) is frozen yogurt from Pinkberry or Red Mango. Yummy!!

Favorite restaurants? I love going to PANERA with my girlfriends, OLIVE GARDEN with the ENOS family and I've always loved BUCA di Beppos. I have yet to dine in the kitchen so I can see how they cook everything. I think it'll be fun.

Favorite smells? I like Lavender (thanks to my momma), the smell of bread baking, fresh flowers and the beach.

Favorite time of the day? I wouldn't say I'm a morning person, but I do like how peaceful it feels so early in the day. It smells nice, the air is cool and whatever I choose to do in the morning (read, exercise,finish a project) I always feel good knowing there's still so much more time in the day to accomplish whatever else is on my agenda. Now, the only problem is I like the nightlife as well.....

What brand of shampoo/conditioner do you use? Aussie. My hair likes it.

What brand of make-up products? Thanks to my older sister Sarai, I've always like MAC, but I do like a ton of extra brands...as long as they can last most of the day. I hate it when you think your makeup looks great and then you pass a mirror mid-day and can't even recognize yourself!!

How many pillows do you sleep with? 1 or for some reason I like to just sleep without one. I don't know why now that I think about it.

Do you play an instrument? Yes. The xylophone. I am an excellent xylophone player thanks to Lana's alligator xylophone toy. I also play a mean train whistle and tambourine.

Have you ever been skinny dipping? Jenna, what's "TMI?" Maybe I want to say that too.

Did you play any sports in High School? Cheerleading, Badminton, Ping-pong and in-door hockey. Just kidding: V-ball, Soccer and Softball. Loved every minute of it.

What was the last movie you saw in the theatre? The Dark Knight with my Honeybuns and Jeff and Jackie. Pretty intense. Oh, actually I did go with Mischa to see Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. I did like that too and I will publicly embarrass myself by saying I read that series. How cool am I now?

What is your favorite article of clothing? I like my dresses cause in the summer when I don't feel like wearing anything, I'll just throw one on!

What is your dream vacation? Italy. One day Mat will cave in and take me there on the most romantic trip EVER. I just have to be patient.

What was your first impression of your spouse? He's so HOT! WHEW! Thanks to my friend Sarona, she couldn't keep my infatuation a secret and told him I was totally into him. So, technically I made the first move. I'm sure that doesn't surprise very many people.

If you were an animal, what would you be? A sly fox

What is your dream car? One of those really small, zippy electric cars. Actually I'm holding out until I can get my solar-powered car. I'm sure Mat is tired of hearing me talk about it.

What is one of your weaknesses? Not finishing what I start- i really just can't seem to.....

What do you fix for dinner when there is nothing to fix? Pasta! Thanks to Penny Poetker I think she is my pasta diva and an inspiration. Also for chili. :)

If you could live in a different decade/era what would it be? I would totally have to pick the 50's as well. Everything seemed so fresh. But I've also always been interested in ancient Egypt but who knows what trouble I'd get into there.

What is the emotion you feel the most? HAPPY

Do you consider yourself outgoing? I think so. I also like to take breaks and just relax with the fam.

What is something you are constantly working on? I'm with Jenna on this too- Organization! Also, being better at having good habits like reading my scriptures in a studious way and trying to get off my butt and do nice things for people.

Any hidden talents? No, I pretty much am a what you see is what you get kinda girl. (note to self: find a hidden talent!)

What is a word or phrase you overuse? Awesome

What was the hardest thing that happened to you this past year? My great grandma passed away and I just wish I could have seen her one last time. She was amazing and I really wanted Lana to meet her.

What is the best thing that has happened to you this past year? I would have to say the best thing about this past year was getting to jet all over and see friends and family. We saw our family in Hawaii, our friends in D.C., had some friends and family visit us here in L.A., my brother came back from his mission and I was there for that, my other brother left for his mission and I was there for that too. Now I'm gearing up for another trip to see Michael get married.

What is one thing you hope to accomplish this year? world peace...wish me luck

The best piece of advise you learned this past year? I need to invest in myself and then I can be fully whole and bless my family and friends.

Typical Sheena Move...

I had to laugh out loud when I figured out today that I don't get notified by e-mail or something when someone comments on the blog like it does on facebook. So all this time I had a bunch of comments I didn't even know were there. I just read all the cute and very very nice comments everyone has made for the past few months! You'd think I would have figured that out sooner cause I like commenting on others blogs! Thank you for taking the time to read my rantings and check out the pictures (when I get around to those!) I just love checking in and seeing what everyone else is up to these days. It always makes me feel so happy to see how all my friends are growing into such amazing and talented parents. I also couldn't live without the cute pictures of all the kids! Don't you wish we all lived close enough to just let them run around together?! For those of you who know the area-the Pratt complex? That sounds about right. haha! I'm so blessed to have great friends and family! LOVE YA!

A major mind blowing realization

It certainly feels weird to say this, but I feel I need to put it in writing to make this realization a reality: I think I like to cook. I've never liked to before. It has always been something I've avoided even learning. I wish I could turn back time and pay more attention to my mom's cooking-she's amazing. Even when Mat and I got married I didn't have the necessary kitchen skills. Our whole first year of marriage was pretty much stir-fry. (that's another proof that he loves me.haha) Our second year of marriage I was a bit spoiled by our wonderful friends in Maryland who would always get together for pot-lucks...very often! It was wonderful to just make one thing and enjoy everyone else's good cookin'. Anyway, this past year I've been really trying to make the effort to learn more and be adventurous in what I attempt to cook/bake. And through this effort, even though I'm just an amateur, I think I'm learning to like it. It's so creative, artistic and really a talent that I can recognize in others. So as I'm trying to continue to make the effort to learn and grow...I would appreciate those of you who are queens and kings of the kitchen to feel free to share tips, recipes and favorite family pleasers with me!

Summer Adventures 2008

Daddy Dates

Our girl is just growing up so fast. Mat mentioned that he'd like to start doing his Daddy-daughter dates. Lana is super excited. We're having so much fun with her because she has such a good memory! Every night she likes to recount what happened that day and she remembers little details that even I forget! She loves picking Mat up from work and always wants to be the one to call him and let him know we're almost there. She'll say, "Sherman way...hurry!" So here's to the future Mat and Lana daddy-daughter dates (and Sheena's anticipated quiet time)!

Jungle Book

Jungle Book is currently Lana's favorite Disney movie. I'm glad she likes it because deep down, I always loved that movie as a kid. I would have to say that the best thing about Lana loving this movie is that she is constantly singing the song "Bare Necessities." It's a very cute song but it's so funny to hear her sing it in all her lisping glory. Here are the lyrics, and just imagine her singing it with her 2 year old lisp:

Look for the bare necessities
The simple bare necessities
Forget about your worries and your strife
I mean the bare necessities
Old Mother Nature's recipes
That brings the bare necessities of life


It seems like whenever I'm in a grumpy mood or about to just get irritated with something, she'll be right on cue and start singing her Jungle Book song or, better yet, her other favorite: I am a Child of God. Now, who can be in a bad mood then?! Thanks, Lana!

"I'm too Sexy.."

Here's what I caught on camera- Lana dancing in the living room to "I'm too sexy..." with a yogurt in hand and everything. What a way to start the day!

Sheena's Best Mommy Moment

It was Saturday night while getting Lana ready for bed. We were in the hall and Lana turned to me and said, "Mommy, I love you, mommy!" I could have just melted right then and there. It was so cute that she wasn't prompted to say it, she just felt it and said it. :) Since then she has said it a few more times and also, "I love you Daddy!" Way to go little Lana...more spoiling coming your way! haha.

A-B-Thee's

Lana can officially say her A-B-Thee's (as she pronounces it) and she can count to 14 by herself. It's so hilarious to hear her just rattle these off throughout the day while she runs around the house or walks up the steps to our apartment. Once she gets to 14, the number 14 is just repeated over and over for 15, 16 and 17...

For her birthday, my mom and dad sent her a hello kitty stamp among other things and now hello kitty's face is all over Lana's body and mine. Somehow Mat was able to avoid this stamp-mania. She's got this stamp on her hands, arms, face, back, tummy, feet... you name it! And she keeps wanting to stamp my face. "Mom, cheeks!" So, I am now typing this with hello kitty stamped two times on my face. Ahh, motherhood.

More to come: Lana's favorite things

Old Pictures-Lana's First Year

I found a bunch of Lana's old pictures that I thought I had lost. It was so nice going through them again- with her!- and reminiscing about her first year. It does go by so fast! And it was great to see all our friends that we miss so much and haven't seen in what seems like forever!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LANA!!

My adorable little side-kick is officially 2 years old today! She's been getting excited for her birthday and yesterday she put a little hat on my head and said, "Happy Birthday, Mom!" This morning we went with Mat to an Open House Ceremony for the new Census Bureau Building for 2010. The birthday girl was quite the active 2 year old and was saying "hi" to everyone and I'm pretty sure she covered every square foot of that courtyard while running around. She has recently discovered the wonderful world of pockets and I have been finding little rocks, flowers, leaves and all sorts of goodies in her pockets at the end of the day. Right now we're off to celebrate her special day...

All the Pacada Girls

Here's the last time all the Pacada girls were together in one room!!(Mom and Grandma in the back). Mischa, Sarai, Sheena and Lana-girl! I had to post this!

California Dreamin'...

We're starting to feel more at home here in California. We moved out here for a great job opportunity for Mat and he really enjoys it. He has great co-workers and his job is certainly keeping him busy, but it seems like he's grown a lot since he has taken on this challenge. Luckily we met this great couple with two fun kids that all of us like. All three of us found good friends in them and they've been so good about helping us feel at home here.

So far we've been able to travel around a bit and see some fun things. California is so huge I have been trying to get used to the idea that you can drive in any given direction for such a long time (before ending up where you started from like I'm used to in Hawaii). Our biggest item on the "to-do" list is going to Disneyland and we are getting really excited. Mostly me and Mat cause I think Lana will just like to see a few characters dressed up and maybe "It's a small world." The rest of the time I think Mat and I will be in line for the fun rides. Her favorite Disney character right now is Nemo. Oh, and Dory too.

Another great thing about living here is that there are such good chances of a friend or family member traveling through. It's been so nice to have people come and visit us or being able to meet up with them. Raf lives in downtown L.A., I was able to see my cousin Katrina and her adorable family, Janzell and Ben, the Nielsens, my Dad and my sisters Mischa and U'i...and hopefully the list will continue! So, if you're ever in the neighborhood, please let us know!

We are trying to be more adventurous and explore new things and new places while we are out here. I've learned a lot about dealing with traffic and really dumb drivers to where the Oscars are held and what the latest is with Britany Spears. Hahaha. Unfortunately. Here's to more fun times in Cali!