opinions please!

I am trying to get some baby things ready.

I have bought some new crib bedding.

I haven't done this with each of the kids,

but decided to with this one. He will need something

new, since he will be getting plenty of hand-me-downs, right?!

Also, I think I have decided to buy a car seat cover for my

infant car seat, instead of replacing the whole thing.

If I were more ambitious (like many of you)

I would make one, but I AM NOT, so

I have found a few websites that sell them, but am

having a hard time deciding which one to get.

So any opinions would be appreciated!

******1******

http://www.kiskissa.com

my only hesitation on this hawaiian print one, is the quality doesn't seem quite as good, very thin material, which I guess would be OK for the hotter months later on. Oh and of course, NOT pink, either black with white flowers or brown with blue flowers.

******2******
www.bellababycompany.com

this one looks fun and SOFT, comfortable material.

******3******
http://www.babyblossom.biz/

******4******

******5******

this last website has the best price,

and so many cute GIRL ones, although not as many,

still a fairly good selection of boy covers too.

So let me know what # you would pick!

Kalua anyone?

I had several requests for the CHEATERS recipe of Kalua Pork.

This recipe is similar to what I do, but even a bit more complex.

INGREDIENTS:
1 (6 pound) pork butt roast

(you can use various cuts AND sizes of pork,

but this part of the pig is best)
1 1/2 tablespoons Hawaiian sea salt

( I have even used regular table salt,

not as flavorful, but works OK when it

may be all you have on hand)
1 tablespoon liquid smoke flavoring

(I haven't had this addition everytime,

but it definitely adds more flavor)

DIRECTIONS:
Pierce pork all over with a carving fork.

Rub salt then liquid smoke over meat.

Place roast in a slow cooker, and cook all day.

*cook time depends on size used*

(if you use size recommended above it said to

cook it 20+ hours-but for a family size meal 6lbs is

definitely too much).
Remove meat from slow cooker, and shred,

adding drippings as needed to moisten.

****************

As you can see it IS soo simple and hopefully

you find it to be oh soo good too!!

Kaipo's BIG day

I almost forgot the whole idea of Kaipo choosing

HIS start of school dinner,

but luckily I had on hand what would make this kid happy.

He chose Kalau Pork and Rice (I have an

easy crock pot-cheaters way of making it)

and I even ventured to try and make my moms

homemade rolls (which I hadn't ever made).

All turned out well for dinner, and then for

dessert he wanted cupcakes. So after FHE the

kids got to decorate their own.

Ash wasn't a bit interested in decorating,
so mom frosted his and he just dug in,
while the other 2 had some fun!

I love this picture, because it captures the
PEER influence that is ongoing among siblings.
They are constantly watching each other-
through the good, the bad, and the in-between!

And here's Kaipo all ready for his
first BIG day, at preschool.
You wouldn't think that was mischief
written all over his face, would you?!
(oh this boy-I can't begin to express how
much I stress over him. From school, to primary,
to play time with friends, visits to the park, swimming
or fun center. No matter where we go
I stress about how he will behave and
interact with other kids. The grey hairs are
already appearing!!!)
But at the same time he is so loveable
and melts my heart, everytime he tells
I LOVE YOU MOM or YOU'RE BEAUTIFUL.
He is a definite charmer!!

And here he is with his new teacher
Ms. JanaLee

I hope he has a great year???!!!

oh Happy Day

Today is my one and only sister Karli's Birthday.

Last night we got to spend some time together,

just the 2 of us! It was soo great!!

We got pedicures and then had dinner.

Both of which were fantastic but most

of all I just enjoyed the time we had to

TALK, uninterrputed, about anything

and everything. SOmething us busy mom's

don't get to do very often.

Unfortunately, neither of us had a camera

in working condition,

so these are borrowed pics.

There are so many things I admire about my sister,

Here are just a few:

*she appreciates the small and simple things of life

*she is so positive, and looks for the good-even when

it may be hard to find

*she has such a way with words, is such a deep and

emotional person-just read HER blog and you

can see what I mean

*she has such an eye for beauty & is fantastic behind the camera

*SHE is beautiful-as a woman, a mother, a wife and a friend

*she has taken to motherhood so naturally and is so patient with

her girls. They are so lucky to call her mommy!

So DIG in Kar and enjoy YOUR day!

Happy Birthday Karli!
I love you and am so lucky and proud to have
YOU as my one and only sis!!

the BIG day finally arrived!!

Ame has been anticipating this day for

soo long! We had a great Sunday getting everything

all ready, and Mom even had good intentions of

early bedtime. I think she may have finally

fallen asleep by 10:30 (not all her fault, she

has been suffering from allergies pretty bad

the last couple of weeks and of course they

are the worst at night).

**********
But here is the big 1st grader all ready

for her first day of class

in front of her schoolhanging up her bag-with her lunch

inside, which is a super big deal!
sitting at her desk, all eager to learn!
I thought I would be A LOT more emotional
this morning than I was. I think more than
anything I am just so excited for Ame and
the adventure that awaits her!
Although I did have a hard time leaving her
class. I did leave the actual room but kept watching
through the window. I already can't wait (like the
boys who keep asking when is Ame going to be home)
to meet her after school, to hear all about her day :)
Can you tell this is my first child in school???

1st Day of School...EVE

I let Ame decide the menu for dinner on Sunday,

so we could all celebrate with her, the

excitement of starting school.

(thanks Jme for the great idea)

On her menu of choice was:

Roast, mashed potatoes and gravy,

corn on the cob, french bread,

all topped off with homemade

ice cream for dessert!

*Kaipo gets to choose next weeks

meal, since he starts preschool

next Monday*

more dance, this time Jazz

Since Ame is joining the competition dance team

this year, it was decided she should take summer

dance class as well. The summer recital isn't as

big of a deal, all the girls get the same costume,

its in a gym instead of on stage, but still lots

of fun for our little performer.

Unfortunately the video on our camera

did not cooperate, so sorry

Grandma and Grandpa...NO video

You did awesome Ame.
Way to go!!

BELATED, but soo worth it!

Friday Night Quinn and I FINALLY got to enjoy

one of the gifts we got for our Anniversary

(much belated, but not any less special).

The 4 course meal was outstanding, but we also agreed you

definitely pay for the atmosphere, as well.

Throughtout our meal we got to observe some big event

going on outside, interesting people and even some peacocks,

turkeys and other bird friends.

It was nice to enjoy quiet conversation and just being together.

Thanks QUinn for 10+ years of adventure. I can't even imagine

what then next 10 years has in store for us and our family.

I LOVE YOU!

More Family Time

Last night we had a get together for Kaiya's

birthday AND because my grandma thurgood

was in Utah visiting, so we had 2 reasons to celebrate.

I don't know why I didn't think to get

any ADULT pictures, but I sure got lots

of all the kids! the Birthday Girl
Notice who is on the computer.
Grandma and Grandpa made their
weekly SKYPE call just in time to
join in on the celebration.
the kids got yummy cupcakes
and the adults got an even better dessert
(thanks Kar for all your hard work-
it was all DELCIOUS)
here's most of the cousins-just missing a few
who are a bit too far away in CA

the kids are in jammies, and the

older ones got to have a sleep over together

at the Hanamaikai's.

I didn't get a picture of that, but we had

a LATE movie night, followed by

chocolate chip pancakes for breakast,

lots of playing, park time, and shave ice...

and all too soon (for the kids)

the fun was unfortunately over.

They have been wanting to do this

all summer (but with them in Logan,

it takes a bit of planning on the part of

the parents) and we finally made it work!

Bragging Rights and Possiblilties

Last Friday evening QUinn's step brother got married

and had a Luau dinner. They asked Ame to dance

at the reception and provide a little entertainment.

She was a bit hesitant and wasn't sure if she wanted

to do it. I let it completely up to her, whether or not

she wanted to do it. As she is getting older, she gets

more and more nervous to perform, especially SOLO

(who wouldn't be).

After much thought she decided it would be fun, and

on her own even practiced for several days to feel

more confident. The anxiety built as the day approached,

all the way up until she performed she was soo nervous.

But once she started dancing no one would have know she

was even the least bit nervous. She did fantastic!

I may be a bit biased, but I definitely think she was the

star of the show.

I am thinking that there may be a possibility
of providing a little side income, with all the
performing Ame has been doing.
In addition to the recent reception,
my grandma just asked her to perform
at an upcoming family reunion.
I am thinking the sharing of her
incredible talent is worth a little $$...
Don't You Think???
(OK not really, but it is a thought)

family birthday means good times

Ame's cousin Olivia shares OUR anniversary.

Her birthday is August 6th.

The family had a get together on Saturday

to celebrate Olivia turning 6.

Although they are a year apart, Olivia will also

be going into 1st grade. Olivia just making the cut off

date and Ame just missing it.

These 2 cousins look the most alike. This little girl is Olivia friend, Bria.

She looks just like one of the family.
Ame and Kaipo made birthday cards
for Olivia and she thought they were soo cool :)

Hanamaikai Family get togethers are

always entertaining, crowded with LOTS of

bodies, make for late nights for us (who have

an hour drive home afterwards), but always lots of fun!

For You, Mom and Dad

I haven't been very good about taking pictures this pregnancy.

My thoughts have been, I look the same as every other pregnancy

and its just not as exciting when it is the 4th time around.

Don't get me wrong, we ARE excited about this little baby

but all the newness just isn't there, as it is with the 1st or even 2nd.

Although I do feel as though I have shown a lot sooner this time,

and my older body is having a bit of a harder time.

Mom and Dad, to satisfy any curiosity you may have, this is me...

with baby #4, going on 27 weeks pregnant and 35 years old.

10 years and a whole lot of blessings!

I have to say my attitude for most of the day, on our anniversary, was not very good. All I could think was we SHOULD be on a trip somewhere, not doing our same old everyday stuff-Quinn busy working, and me trying to be a happy mom with all the kids and their whining. I mean this is 10 years! Plus I felt I was cheated on my birthday, cuz I really didn't get much of one. So I was definitely feeling sorry for myself. As the day went on I was trying to reflect more on the blessings we have received over the past 10 years and what we have today-which is soo abundant. Much more meaningul than an exotic trip or an extravagant vacation (although THAT would be really nice). Most of the blessings we have are because of the hard work and sacrifice of my wonderful husband. Later in the evening, after taking Ame to dance class, running errands and grabbing dinner (QUinn did get me my favorite COSTA VIDA, which I don't treat myself to very often), he gave me THIS...... We have yet to get our date to La Caille (we had so much going on over the weekend), but that is coming this week. I have always been OK with my small wedding ring (it has been a reflection to me of how our lives truly started-simple, but sweet) but I have secretly wished for an addition to it, over the years. Well QUinn did not disappoint this year. He spoiled me with an anniversary band. This all coming after me giving Quinn the meger gifts I had gotten him. As I opened by generous gifts from him, I was greatly HUMBLED! I truly have so much to be thankful for, much more than fine dining and beautiful jewelry :) But I am soo looking forward to an amazing meal and I LOVE my new ring. This girl is feeling extremely lucky, VERY loved and appreciated!

Aloha!

Ame had her annual Luau performance last night. This is her 3rd year performing, and she continues to become more confident and enjoys being apart of the Halau (team.) She did 4 dances, but this is the one that we got the best video of, and it a new dance this year. It is cute to watch her perform, because as her nerves and excitement come together, she get a little overzealous and her moves become VERY excentuated. Much more so than when she is just practicing. Ame even noticed this as she watched herself. But we are so proud of her and the love she is developing for this beautiful & unique style of dance.

Way to go our one and only Hawaiian Girl!

And thanks to those who came to watch and support Ame. It really meant a lot to us, especially Ame. We know many others wanted to be there, but the timing just wasn't right. Hopefully we will have many more years for all to enjoy this great night of entertainment and Aloha Spirit!

A Wonderul Day Just For Taylor

Although little Taylor had no idea

we were all there to honor her,

we were grateul to have been apart of her special day!

Everything about the day seemed just right

(from MY point of view).

Taylor looked adorable,

but I didn't get any pics of my own of her

(took this one from Karli's blog),

before she got undressed.

What a little angel!! Here are just some random pics

from our get together afterwards-

We were so glad Jamie, Tucker

and thier girls could join us,

one last time b4 they head back to Cali.

Cute little Ella, just couldn't resist!

We missed Jason though, he was home sick.
2 crazy boys (Ryan & Kaipo)-
the only position I could get a picture
of them in-laying on the floor, in front of the door,
I guess like wild animals do.
Quinn-doing what he does best...
getting a cat nap.
Of course none of the conversation and loudness
of everyone gathered woke him,
only his son yelling from the top of the stairs.
At least I know in a time of emergency
Kaipo could wake his dad :)
the girls doing what they do best-quietly coloring
It was such a relaxing, enjoyable day.
Thank you Karli and Chris for letting us be apart of
this special occassion!

MORE swimming

What else to do all summer but SWIM!

There is another aquatic center nearby

that was even more perfect for the kids (mostly Ash).

The pool is only 2 feet deep, and it has a splash pad.

So everyone was happy!!

And so much less stress for mom!!!

There is an indoor pool as well,

but we only got to spend the last little bit there,

because it was closed for swim lessons.

Which was fine for me, cuz I would much rather be outdoors,

than inside where it is soo stuffy, and no sun.

Kaipo wanted so badly to go on the BIG slide all by himself,

but he was just a few inches too short to ride alone.

Friends Forever

We were lucky enough to have the Maxfields come visit us this week. Jamie and the girls came up for the afternoon. My sister karli and her girls joined us too. The kids played and played (with just a few fights), while the moms gabbed and gabbed! It was perfect and so enjoyable!! We received many a dance performances as well.
Jamie and Katie (Robinson) came up on Wednesday evening, and met karli and I for a GIRLS NIGHT OUT! It was soo fun talking and reminiscing. I think we were together like 4 hours. We were definitely the last ones to leave the restaurant. We talked about the good ol' days of our younger years, life with kids, being a mom, all of our good and bad times, and so much more. I only wish I had these girls to talk with, like this, every day! Thanks girls for such a fun night. I soooo needed it :)

lemonade anyone???

So Ame has been BEGGING to have a lemonade stand all summer, so I finally helped her do one. She made all her signs and got mostly everything ready. She has been very anxious about it all week and just couldn't wait, and she woke up the morning of...soo excited!! Because we don't live on a busy street, we even put up some signs on the corner and into our development. I don't know if they helped, but she did have a few generous passer by's and some gracious neighbors. Her daddy threw in a $20, so she thought she made soo much money. I think she really made about $8. She said she would give her brother a little of the profit, since he was her helper part of the time. I don't know if it was quite as exciting as Ame anticipated, but this definitely cured her anxious desire. Ame's little neighbor friend said her family is having a yard sale in a few weeks, so the girls may just try making lemonade slushies to sell, one more time!