The Martinez Family

Lingering question...

2011-06-10T11:55:00.000-05:00

With so many talented ladies out there in the "art of creating" scrapbooks, paper crafting, and other handmade elements-specifically, here in Laredo, TX-I don't know why our community hasn't yet embraced the idea of having a craft fair that will promote our local talent. I following many blogs with the same interest I share and to my surprise- most, if not all, have a craft fair in their hometown. More recently our city has initiated a farmer's market and that has brought many opportunities to individuals who love the idea of purchasing natural and pesticide-free products as well as new businesses to our community. However, I've had this lingering question running through my mind (more than often now). So why doesn't our city take the challenge and have an annual craft fair? I, for starters, would certainly be one of the first individuals to participate in this new endeavour. I more than likely wouldn't be the most artistic, but definitely and surely be inspired by so many talented crafters in the same venue. It would also give me an opportunity to display my work and that of other fellow enthusiasts in this up-and-coming marketable business. Recently, I was featured in one of Laredo's local magazines, Laredo Family Time Magazine under their new Mompreneurs section. Let me just say that I was honored for the gesture and opportunity. I commend them for their interest in showcasing full-time Moms who also enjoy crafting for a living or as a hobby. It is periodicals such as these that strive themselves to promote activities, events and local talent in our city to make it a better community for ourselves, our family, and other aspiring people who want to take their venture to a new level. For now all we can do is continue crafting, creating, and inspiring others.

Happy crafting everyone!

Honduras...un pais de cinco estrellas!

2011-04-29T21:25:00.001-05:00

Honduras IS in fact a "five star country"!

My dream (and that of my deceased brother and sister) had ALWAYS been to go to Honduras. Never did I -in my wildest dreams- think this wish would ever come true.

During my three week stay in Honduras while visiting my father, I wanted to go sight seeing around this beautiful country that had me breathless no matter what turn I took up and down its slopes and hills at every corner I turned. Although my visit had a different purpose, I was not sure if I would have the opportunity to come close to "getting to know" my country as well as my roots. Remarkably enough, my new found relatives, my maternal cousins, and my Tia Pili were extremely hospitable and gracious to take me all over Honduras when possible. Looking back (at my 500+ pictures!), I realize just how fortunate and blessed I was to have actually gotten that once in a lifetime opportunity in such a short period of time. After all, I don't know (exactly) when I will be able to make such a trip again. Of course and without a doubt, I hope I do, someday-in the very near future. In the meantime, here are (A FEW) some breath-taking photos I took of Honduras' wonderful splendor and amazing topography.

Aguilar Prado Family

Prado's

With my cousin, Luis Guillermo and his family

With my loving Tia Pili

With my sisters and their children

Arriving at the Toncontin Airport

A view of the night sky at the Plaza de Espana

Off to Choluteca

How the Hondurans sell their vegetables

Me at the delicious restaurant Los Manglares

Don't you agree now why my country coined this expression?

Reunited

2011-04-15T01:16:00.024-05:00

I realize I haven't blogged since last November as you can observe from my last post. Not that I haven't wanted to do so-it's just that so much has happened since I last blogged on our family page. There have been many developments in my life since then. Coincidentally, about a year ago this month. So I thought I'd share them with you now.

Last April, I received an unanticipated message through Facebook. To my astonishment it was from my birth father whom I had never met, seen, much less remember since I was seven years old. He had found me after 29 years of not knowing anything about him. I was bewildered to say the least after many years of absenteeism. However, I couldn't help my curiosity to find out if, in fact, it was my father. After promptly replying to his request and confirming the add he and I established an amiable relationship and communication throughout the next five months (even though it was another world away in my native country of Honduras). Precisely ten days after my Thanksgiving post, I received yet another message that devastated me. This time it was to inform me of his incurable lung cancer. I was told he had a little over a month to live and that he didn't want to worry me by telling me of his condition (this explained the reason why I hadn't heard from him during those three months). Oddly enough, his last post was on August 20th (my 36th birthday). I think (now) that it was his way of saying "goodbye" to me before departing this life. At that moment the only thing that crossed my mind was that I wanted to be there for him in the "blink of an eye". But it was easier said than done. You see, since I came to the United States in 1981, I had never returned or traveled out of the country ANYWHERE. As many emotions surged throughout, my question was: "How was I going to travel to Honduras and defy TIME at the same time? It was literally, borrowed time. After sorting out the details of what was to be my trip to meet him and bid him farewell at the same time, I had another pending matter to take care of here, at home, with my family. I had NEVER been apart from my three children nor husband-ever-especially for the length of time I was going to be gone for. It was an extremely difficult time for them since it was so close to the Christmas holidays and the fact that I would miss Christmas and New Years altogether broke my heart even more. I was torn. It was just as painful for me as it was for them. I spoke frankly to them (as much as three young children could understand) and to my amazement, my kids understood the situation and were 100% behind me, supporting every decision I made along the way. I must admit I underestimated them and tend to forget that they are no longer babies. To this day, I will NEVER forget how compassionate and positive their attitudes were towards the entire time this was going on. But I had faith that God would sort all of these things out for me if this was meant to happen for me. Granted, I had some setbacks here and there along the way, but God prevailed in the end. With the unconditional support of my wonderful, loving husband, his parents, and some close friends I was on my way to my place of birth of Tegucigalpa after an entire life away from it not knowing exactly how bittersweet my trip would actually be upon my return.

My time in Honduras with my father was QUALITY time well spent. I will never forget the time I spent with him-caring for him and just sitting by his side tending to his every need or request. I am forever grateful to God for allowing me that opportunity as I know he had already planned this for me before I even knew it. Those moments we shared together will eternally be engraved in my heart and my memory. My faith in God has grown even more after this wonderful encounter. I just pray he will continue to give me strength and fortitude for the next chapter in my life.

Rafael Castro Avila

December 20, 2010

Fabulous Fall

2010-11-09T22:17:00.000-06:00

Signs of fall are rarely seen here in Laredo. Laredoans are not as fortunate to experience all four seasons of the year. We don't get the see the colors change from season to season as other cities and states do. So when we recently got a cold front down here we were very grateful and lucky in finally feeling cooler weather. Now by a "cold front" I mean 70-85 degree weather for us. At this point, we'll take whatever we can get!

For the past three years, we have gone to a local church to take our family "Fall" pictures. It amazes me just how much our three little pumpkins are growing every year. As a mother, you don't want this to happen but you know that you can not stop the inevitable. It does however put a big smile on my face how they are each developing their physical and mental abilities and with a different personality respectively. Every year I continue to count my blessings for allowing me to be a mother to my three beautiful and happy children.

October Fest!

2010-11-08T22:17:00.017-06:00

The month of October was a busy one for us. We had so many activities going on that I can't believe how far behind I am on my scrapbooking! Towards the later part of the month we took the kids to Lowe's where they got to build their own bats during their "Build and Grow" series for kids. This wonderful program brings families together to share experiences with their children by building an item in a family oriented atmosphere. The kids enjoyed building their bats while Daddy helped by their side. At home Charlie took the project a little further and painted the bats and hung them up on the tree by our front lawn to make a nice touch to our quaint Halloween decorations.

While the kids were so anxious to do their pumpkin carving, we had to carefully explain to them (mainly Carolina) that we had to wait in order to take full advantage of them and not let them rot before Halloween would come. Luckily they understood and we waited to fully carve our colorful pumpkins. After the carving, we placed them in a table to decorate our garage and later moved them to the lawn when the evening got darker to fully appreciate the lighting. They definitely added a special touch to our Halloween night.

Speaking of Halloween, we couldn't have asked for better weather than the one we got that Sunday. It was a perfect evening to receive our neighborhood Trick or Treaters. We truly enjoyed dressing up and being hosts. Stay tuned for next year.....there may be a nice surprise regarding our costumes!

An unlikely Halloween tradition

2010-10-27T21:42:00.003-05:00

As soon as my babies could go "trick or treating" we thought that it would become a typical tradition for us to do every Halloween. Boy, was I wrong! To our surprise (and as we have come to accept by now), they enjoy giving out candies instead. So now every Halloween they enjoy picking out the candy, look forward to decorating the house, going to the pumpkin patch, and carving a pumpkin. So as it turns out for the past five years we sit outside the garage for trick-or-treaters to stop by our house as our kids enjoy the evening giving out candy and admire the costumes.

Here are some pictures from last year's Halloween!

I had a lot of fun making my costume (along with the rest of my 3rd Grade Team!)

I wish I could take credit for this one....Caro's day care teacher let her use her daughter's costume (from last year) since Caro REALLY wanted to dress up as a Cowboy's Cheerleader. Her teacher's mother did a wonderful job in making it. Don't you think?

Without a sewing machine at my finger tips-I was still able to make Cristina's cowgirl vest as she wanted to. Not bad for a no-sew project.

I love his dimple!

New school year brings new changes!

2010-08-28T14:59:00.001-05:00

When I found out I was being moved to 5th grade I have to admit I was shocked and it took some time to process this new challenge since for the past five years I have only taught 3rd graders! It would definitely be difficult parting with my team and classroom. After having all summer to do this, I also realized that five years ago Charlie and I both started together at Malakoff Elementary and now we were both also moving on together to 5th grade. I took this as a blessing in disguise as this will be his last year in elementary school. It will be a bittersweet change for me when he leaves me for middle school. I have all year to process that....

With Caro in 1st grade and Cristina in 3rd, I knew they would both be fine. Caro will be reunited with her Kinder teacher (who was also moved) and Cristina would be with my mentor/team member and good friend (who was also Charlie's teacher). I know they are in good hands since I will not get to see them as much as I am in a portable outside the school now.

As for me-well, I would be reunited with my former students and 3rd graders from two years ago. This is definitely going to ease the transition. I have also entered the Master's Program at Texas A&M International University. Five years ago I set a goal to return to school to pursue my Masters' Degree in School Counseling after Carolina completed her first year in school. And now, it is actually here. If all goes as planned, I hope to graduate and complete the program in two years.

This year will definitely be a year of new challenges and good changes for the Martinez family!

Turning 36...

2010-08-28T13:45:00.001-05:00

After a long week preparing for the new school year with meetings and trainings, we went to Salsa's Restuarant for my birthday. The ambience was nice and calm. It was just the antidote I needed after a long hard day meeting my new parents and students. In the middle of our dinner I was serenaded with a trio of singers. The "serenata" was beautiful and the food was delicious (I love Sushi)! For my gift, Charlie gave me a gift certificate to Studio 55 Day Spa & Salon. I can't wait to use it!! I had a very good birthday....most importantly, I got to spend it with the best people in my life!

Unforgettable Summer

2010-08-12T21:24:00.013-05:00

I can't believe that after three months of much needed rest, the kids (and I) will be going back to school. Our summer vacation couldn't have been any better this year. We were very fortunate to have taken several trips despite not having an extra paycheck this summer(which we had gotten used to). For the past five years I've worked straight through until July leaving me with only about six weeks of vacation and rest to re energize for the following year. But this year I actually had my first summer off since school let out. I have to admit that I felt strange at first with so much time on my hands, especially since I was not accustomed to it. The forthcoming days ahead turned out to be the busiest of any of my summers. Not by work, but by all the activities I did with the kids. I loved spending time with them and meeting everyone of their needs no matter what they were or requested. Of course being a mother comes with the territory, but the role of mom was much more fun and one of the most rewarding.

Our vacation started immediately after my official last day of work. Our Memorial Day weekend turned out to be the perfect antidote to my overwhelming year. Charlie was so supportive and convinced me to leave (and pack) right after he got out of work. That evening we headed right to San Antonio. While there, Charlie and I took the kids to the Alamo and surrounding attractions such as the much talked about cruise by the riverwalk on the boat, Ripley's Believe It or Not, and Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum.

Since we were not far from my sister's in Austin, we planned on visiting her as well. However, she had a much better idea. We met halfway for lunch in historical Lockhart, Texas.

We ate at the internationally known restaurant, Blacks Barbeque. We were so impressed at how big their BBQ Ribs were and especially how delicious their food was. It was definitely a family affair and one we will certainly have again sometime.

After our delicious lunch, Omar took us to a park nearby. When he told us about it I wasn't expecting what we saw. We were impressed to find out it was much like Garner State Park where the kids had so much fun swimming in the Five Mile Dam. Our afternoon at Dudley Johnson Park turned out to be perfect considering it was Memorial Day weekend. There were just the right amount of people and the weather couldn't have been better.

Last week we planned on going camping but our plans changed and went to San Antonio and Dallas instead. That evening in San Antonio, Charlie's aunt and uncle offered to take care of the kids while Charlie and I took a stroll down the Riverwalk. Since it was already late we went to Howl at the Moon. Charlie had never been to that bar and admitted to having a lot of fun and enjoying the humorous atmosphere.

In the morning we took the kids to Schlitterbahn. They were so excited that they didn't even hesitate to take off their clothes and rapidly changed into their swimsuits. My first and only trip to the water park had been when my sister, Sandy and her husband, Alex took me and Melissa (Alex's sister) 13 years ago. I was just as excited as the kids were in getting on the water rides. We managed to survive the heat and stayed until the park closed. Needless to say, the kids had a blast! Take a look at the slideshow!! I took so many pictures of the fun we had.

We stopped at my sister's house for a quick visit in Austin after leaving Schlitterbahn. Unfortunately, I didn't take any pictures since we arrived late in the evening and left early in the morning for Dallas. For the following days we took a tour of the Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, traveled to Oklahoma to gamble at the Winstar Casino (the kids stayed with Cindy and George and went for a swim in their pool! We ate at two great restuarants-Rio Mambo and Macaroni Grill, on two separate evenings, were treated to a delicious dinner at Amanda's and Manuel's house, ice skated at the Galleria, viewed a Red Bull Art Show, went swimming on one of our last nights and managed to drop my phone in the pool! Luckily, I was able to recover it (thanks to Cindy's advice).

I still can't believe we did so much!! We can't wait to see what the summer has in store for us next year!

Free digital slideshow personalized with Smilebox

Make a digital slideshow

Our Little Graduate!

2010-06-09T17:32:00.056-05:00

Carolina is our youngest and last to graduate from kindergarten. The past six years have flown by like a cloud of dust. I can't believe how fast she has grown.....right before our eyes! Even though at the time I felt bad that she would miss an entire year of school because of one day, I have come to realize that this only helped her. She undoubtedly made a smooth transition from day care to school. I was not worried about her at all. Carolina has always been very precocious. At a very young age, she was always two steps ahead of her brother and sister.

Throughout her first year, she made new friends and reunited with old ones from her home day care. She was the Student and Reader of the Month. She was recommended for the GT Program and made it on the first try. Where as Charlie and Cristina took more opportunities for them to make it. Her reading ability also impresses me all the time. She finds it so easy to make out some words and her vocabulary is so advanced that she never ceases to amaze me. We know she is ready to start 1st grade next year. We are so proud of all her accomplishments.

With her diploma and Outstanding Student trophy!

With me
With Charlie and Cristina

With Daddy

This was a very special day for her. On a more somber note, it was also a very sad day as Charlie's Grandmother's funeral was also held this day. Charlie was sad that he wouldn't be able to attend her graduation since he was serving as pallbearer for the funeral. I took this picture before he left to the funeral and we left for school. It was both a celebration of life for Charlie's Grandmother and Caro's Graduation.

Locks of Love

2010-06-09T13:43:00.040-05:00

I am no stranger to cancer and the effects it has had on my family or Charlie's side of the family. My older brother, Rafa, lost his battle to Leukemia when he was only 16 years old. And more recently, Charlie's Grandmother to Lung Cancer. So when both my young daughter's told me that they wanted to donate their long, curly, and beautiful hair to Locks of Love, I was not only proud, but captivated by their generous and selfless decision. I can't believe that at such a young age they understand how important it is to an individual to have their hair and the meaning of giving without expecting anything in return. Charlie and I are so proud of them! Here are some before and after pictures.

Before

After

Notice how happy they are for giving their hair to someone in need.

Fourth of July Camping Trip

2010-06-06T15:14:00.007-05:00

We love going camping with the family! After we came back from our trip two years ago, I started to download all the pictures from the memory card and accidentally erased ALL my pictures including these!!!! If this has ever happened to you and you're anything like me, you cried your heart out for this unintentional mishap. Needless to say, I was upset at myself and heartbroken at the same time. I couldn't believe what I had done and I was not about to let it go. Pictures are an extension of my life. So I made some calls and they referred me to the Geek Squad at Best Buy. After explaining what had happened, the technician still didn't guarantee that my pictures would be recovered. Luckily, they were!!! Of course I paid a pretty penny for them and in the end I had the pictures backed up into a CD. I was so relieved and got to work right away. Here are some images of the album. Can't wait for August to go camping again!

Easter 2010

2010-04-25T21:48:00.001-05:00

We had wanted to celebrate Easter at our house like we've done for the past two years, but due to Charlie's grandmother delicate condition, they decided to celebrate it at my In-laws. Take a peek at what we did!!

Another scrapbook by Smilebox

Cristina's First Holy Communion invitation

2010-03-08T19:47:00.001-06:00

I can't believe Charlie made his last year and now my daughter, Cristina is making her First Holy Communion in five weeks. In the tradition of personalizing their things, here is a "prototype" of Cristina's invitation. I really liked the outcome of it. I only visualized it in my head while I purchased the supplies on Saturday. I have to admit that when I get inspired, I can't stop. I have to follow through or it escapes me and I take the chance of loosing the thought. So here it is. Now to make them...thank goodness I have Spring break coming up!!
The outside cover

The invitation

CCD Christmas Choir

2010-01-14T09:30:00.001-06:00

The Religious Education Department did something different this year with the CCD students. From my past experience, they hadn't done this before, but I was very happy to hear that they were going to hold a Christmas Concert for the parents. Cristina took part in their 1st Annual Christmas Choir. I think they didn't anticipate such a good turn out because it was a full house. I think the church exceeded their occupancy limit that evening! Either way, it was nice to see the reenactment of the Christmas Story the way I used to remember seeing it at my church when I was growing up. We were so proud of our little girl for participating in such a blessed event.

Special Guest from Honduras!!

2010-01-04T22:16:00.006-06:00

I was very excited when my cousin from Honduras sent me a message to inform me that he and my Tia Pili were coming to Texas during the Christmas break. Luis Guillermo was going to spend the holidays with his wife's family and Tia Pili was coming to Laredo to spend it with her side of the family. The last time she had been here (and by chance) was when I was delivering, Carolina at the hospital...that was six years ago! So on Friday-New Year's day, we picked her up and took her to Johnny Carino's to have a nice lunch. While there we talked and reminisced about my childhood and got reaquainted with each other. After spending some time at my house we took a stroll down the mall. I almost didn't capture these pictures because I thought I had lost my new camera there!! Luckily, when we went back to see if it was at the last store we went to, they had kept it for me. I was so lucky. I just wish her trip would've been for a longer stay. We also spoke about us making a trip to Honduras in the future. I hope that is sooner than I hope. I would love to go back to my roots and for my children to experience the beautiful country that Honduras really is.

Tia Pili and I with the kids

Tia Pili with the kids

Happy 2010!!

2010-01-04T21:45:00.002-06:00

More of what they say...

2009-08-12T14:23:00.005-05:00

***Cristina

"Can you scratch my cheek becasue I can't because they (shaking her arms) are sleepy?"

*****
The kids are talking about the planets in our car on our way home yesterday. This is what their conversation was like(if I remember correctly...)

Charlie: What would happen if earth was real close to the sun? How close is it now?

Me: It is close, but not hot enough not to live on earth.

Charlie: Since pluto is not a planet anymore, it's really cold.

Carolina: How cold?

Cristina: Like two Alaska's cold.

I love their over generalizations! I can't get enough of them!

The effects of being hungry...

2009-08-01T12:53:00.003-05:00

So Caro says this morning: "My tummy hurts 'cuz I'm not eating."

Young Meditator

2009-07-21T20:14:00.011-05:00

After coming back from our trip in Houston, I turned around and heard Carolina making a humming sound. When I asked what she was doing (and to my surprise) she responded "I'm meditating...aaaummm". Luckily, I was also able to capture her in action as well!!

Our Vacation

2009-07-14T09:24:00.013-05:00

11 days; 264 hours; 15,840 minutes; 950,400 seconds; 1,226 miles; 775 photos; 3 children; 2 states; 7 cities; 2 weddings; 1 speeding ticket; 1 broken toe; 1 family and lots of patience. Yep-that's what it took for us to have our vacation this year!

Fourth of July 2009

Don't Talk to Strangers

2009-06-30T13:50:00.003-05:00

So my youngest, Carolina (5 yrs.), is listening to this song by Rick Springfield and the chorus starts "Don't talk to strangers."...Then I hear her tell Cristina (7 yrs.), "You know that's true...you're not supposed to talk to strangers." That little girl never ceases to AMAZE me - EVERYDAY!!

Vacation with a "Bang"

2009-06-27T13:31:00.003-05:00

After a long and roller coaster ride of a school year, we are finally taking our much anticipated vacation this summer. Once summer school ends we will be going to Dallas, San Marcos(hopefully), San Antonio, New Braunfels, Corpus Christi, and Rockport.

During our vacation, we will be attending two weddings! On the 4th of July we will be going to Charlie's cousin, Kenny, and on the 11th to Carolina's day care teacher, Ms. Medina, at the beach in Rockport.

We are looking forward to spending time with family and friends on both events. We will be taking the kids to several attractions and parks. Can't wait!!! And that's just me!

Take a look at last year's Smilebox scrapbook: 4th of July Camping Trip .

CM designs

2009-06-16T02:55:00.012-05:00

Here it is...my very own "Hall of fame"-if you will. I've been wanting to display my creations for a very long time somewhere I just didn't know where or how (yes, it's true; I didn't know!). At the same time, I've also given my creations a personal touch by adding "CM designs" to them when completed just as a professional artist signs their work of art. CM Designs basically devired by putting my first and last name initials together and since all of our names also begin with "C", I thought it was the perfect name.

I've taken pictures of some of the gifts, cards or just stuff I've created and didn't know what to do with them until now. Although I already have a personal blog, It hadn't occured to me to do the same in Blogger! After much anticipation, it is finally up! I am so excited and can't wait for you to leave me any comments or suggestions. I want to thank you for visisting and taking the time to read my blog. Check it out by clicking on the title for this blog. *Don't forget to bookmark it!! :)

See you around Blogger!
Carmen

Japenese Tea Garden

2009-06-08T19:56:00.039-05:00

We took the kids to a Japenese Tea Garden located right before the San Antonio Zoo. It's so close that I didn't know it was there! We had never noticed it before!! The place is beautiful and mesmerizing. Aesthetically pleasing to the eye especially if you appreciate nature and its natural surroundings. The kids loved it and enjoyed watching the coy fish, turtles, and a family (with their mother) of ducklings. Walking through the garden was so soothing. The beautiful waterfall at the middle of the garden was breathtaking. After reading a little about its history I was compelled to learn more about it. So I researched it in the internet after our trip. It's things like this that shows us that we need to be more appreciative of what we have and our family. This is a perfect example of taking care of our earth and "going green".

Capturing plant life Taking a nature walk & Cooling off A mesmerizing waterfall
The beautiful Coy Fish

Downtown Aquarium

2009-06-07T17:22:00.001-05:00

After our short stay in San Antonio we headed to Houston where our hosts, Manuel & Judy Gonzalez (family friends), took us to the Downtown Aquarium in central Houston. It was another fun adventure for the kids. Like at the Tea Garden in San Antonio, the kids encountered many animals such a Macaw bird, Poison Dart Frog, various fish, sting rays, a 20 ft. long snake, and even an incredibly beautiful White Tiger!
Awesome picture with "Reef" the white tiger! It was as if he had posed for us.

After the Aquarium, it was time for the Diving Bell (like a ferris wheel) without the men because they are afraid of heights. Finally, we went to the Galleria. Even though the girls' and Charlie's hearts were set on ice skating, we didn't do that. I felt they were still too young and would have gotten hurt just trying to stay on their two feet! We enjoyed the rink just as spectators this time around. Petting the sting rays who were very friendly
Under the sting rays!
Our shark voyage
We were told by Judy that Charlie got scared of the popping shark, but he was such a good sport

Above the Diving Bell
After having breakfast at IHOP, we were back on the road to Laredo. We'd like to thank the Gonzalez's for a great weekend at their home and for being great hosts. We had so fun much in such little time. It's amazing how much you actually get done when you have limited days to do it in. I guess it's true when they say that things come out better when they are not planned. All this took place on a three day- and much needed weekend!

Charlie's First Holy Communion

2009-05-29T17:15:00.008-05:00

After two, long, and much anticipated years of CCD classes, my "baby boy" made his First Holy Communion. Although I knew this day would come, I never thought it would fall the day before Mother's Day. Which is why this day was so exceptionally special for me. I felt so blessed that one of my Mother's Day gifts would be that my son receive the next sacrament after baptism. I am so proud of him. We were also blessed that Father Michael (the same priest that baptized him) was able to officiate the ceremony (He had had a heart attack not so long ago and was in critical condition). This was his first official mass since his incident. He even got to do Charlie's reconciliation a week before. He admitted to me later that he was nervous about confessing his sins to Father Michael. I'm glad to say that went well. Now we prepare for Cristina's ceremony next year....

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Easter Sunday

2009-04-14T23:06:00.012-05:00

We started the day by going to mass in the morning. We returned home for what would be the most anticipated event for the children. We decided to spend Easter at home this year. Some of Charlie's friends and relatives came over to spend it with us. They day turned out so nice and the kids had a blast.

My own little space

2009-04-14T20:24:00.029-05:00

After Charlie's Dad had closed the garage and decorated his own "work shop" space, I was left with a small enough room to hold my washer & dryer and small storage space. After a converstation with Charlie, I shared my thoughts on the future of the small space left between our garage and the door that led to the inside of the house. I wanted this room to serve two purposes- a laundry room and a place to store my scrapbook supplies (that I stored in the dining room). As soon as we received our income tax we began purchasing the supplies needed to begin this project.
After my father-in-law dedicated many tidious and countless hours working on my little space (which took about a month) it began to take shape and eventually morphed into a space I never expected to ever have. It actually turned out better than I expected! My Scrap Room- as I like to call it now-has become one of my favorite places to spend time in. Between the Spring Break and Easter holidays I've already dedicated countless hours in it. I got so inspired that already finished one album and six pages. I am so proud of myself! I hadn't scrapped for a while so this is a big accomplishment for a scrapbooker. Needless to say I will be scrapbooking in my little room during the summer!
I want to say thanks to my Father-in-law for his artistic carpentry, my brother-in-law, Jerry for the electrical wiring, my second brother-in-law, Bobby, for wiring my Direct TV, and my husband for supporting my love for scrapbooking. Thanks you guys!!! And yes, I will be making a page about my new little space!

Here are some before and after pictures.

Making Cascarones

2009-04-14T19:54:00.007-05:00

We almost decorated the Cascarones on a rainy day (as our local meteorologist had predicted). Unfortunately, not a single drop fell from above. In any case, the kids were just as excited to make their own cascarones whether it rained or not. They made a total of a dozen and half cascarones! As with any child activity, this was enough to last for their short, but not under estimated, attention span.

2009-03-05T11:31:00.000-06:00

Cristina has been so active since she was a little baby. She could never truly sit still on my lap or stay in her swing. So you can imagine our surprise when we experienced the milestone of ability to walk at the tender age of 10 months. (She only crawled for about a week on her ninth month). Besides her participation at her former day care recitals, Cristina has really never had formal lessons in dancing. She started dancing since she was two and has never looked back. I guess it comes to no surprise to us when she shares with us that she wants to participate in a dance camp. We thought she would develop a stage fright at the moment she began to perform. Boy, were we ever wrong! She loved to perform and at the end of her performance she came to me and asked, "Did you like how I danced Mommy?" I was so proud of her three minute performance. She says she wants to continue dancing because "she was born to dance." How does a seven year old little girl know exactly what she wants to do at this age? By the way, she has also expressed-continuously- how she will become a veterinarian when she grows up. I'm just glad that she has these dreams and aspires to achieve them one day. Take a look at her performance. Let me know what you think!

Here is another video sample of her free-lance dancing-she choreographed it herself!

2009-02-07T23:17:00.004-06:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Camping Trip on the 4th of July

2008-07-10T17:02:00.017-05:00

We hadn't gone camping for a long time, so when we were invited to Concan, Texas for the 4th of July; we were more than ready to get our camping gear! We stayed at the Garcia's (Cristina's Godparents) beautiful cabin. It was the perfect getaway to put up our feet, relax, and enjoy the great outdoors. And we even got to see fireworks in the beautiful night sky!

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Malakoff Pride

2008-03-30T17:29:00.006-05:00

I can't believe how much my little boy Charlie is growing up. Just yesterday I was enrolling him in Kinder Basketball. Now here he is along with his 2nd grade team members celebrating another great basketball season. Although they did not make it to the playoffs this year, they were happy just spending time with each other and having a great time at Hal's Landing while enjoying their End of the Season Party.

We almost didn't make it to the party because Charlie was sick-yes, that's right. I had to take him to the doctor. The doctor gave him a nebulizer treatment at the clinic. He may not show it on the picture but he had a bad chest infection! He was flushed from releasing all of his body heat. He didn't want to miss spending time with his friends. And who would blame him?

St. Patrick's Day

2008-03-17T17:11:00.010-05:00

I was looking forward in spending time with with the kids this Spring Break. So on Monday, St. Patrick's Day, I took the kids to the public library. To our surprise, they had several activites going on celebrating St. Patrick's Day. They had story telling, music and art activites. They enjoyed checking out books and reading them in the kids tent. As you can see below, they had a lot of fun.

After our three hour time in the library, we went to visit Grandma at work. The kids enjoyed the day and I had a lot of fun watching them and capturing these moments with them.
At Grandma's Office

Egg Hunt Fun @ Malakoff

2008-03-16T20:23:00.008-05:00

This was Cristina's first Egg Hunt at school. I was very lucky to have captured these cute photos of her(I was in planning when they began their hunt). The entire Kinder class of 2008 enjoyed a sunny day at the school's courtyard. Cristina was so excited and happy to be with her friends. As you can see she had a lot of fun.

Cristina and her teacher, Ms. Pia Martinez

Searching for "Cascarones"

Valentine's Day Celebration

2008-02-15T17:11:00.003-06:00

My good frined and collegue, Mrs. Recio surprised me this day by giving my family a valentine's day gift. It wasn't your typical holiday card, box of chocolates or even a stuffed animal. To my surprise (inside a big brown paper bag) was a bottle of cider nicely secured with packing peanuts. She told me how they celebrate Valentine's Day in her family by drinking a bottle of cider with her husband, Dad and even her son, Jose Emiliano. She wanted us to celebrate by doing the same. I explained the ritual to Charlie and the kids and this is how we celebrated. We hope to continue this tradition anually just like my friend. Thank you, Mrs. Recio for the wonderful idea!

Good-Bye 2007!

2008-01-06T14:46:00.000-06:00

As we say good-bye to another year, I can't help but think of some of the many events that took place this year. First, the most unthinkable (I can't believe it myself!) Charlie and I reached our tenth year anniversary last February. It's amazing how time flies. Seems only yesterday Charlie and I tied the knot after a short, but well established courtship. During the past ten years we purchased our home, had three wonderful children, bought a much needed family vehicle, and moved out of our home to my in-laws and back. Let me tell you that it hasn't been an easy ride. During that time I also also went to school full-time and worked 40 hours a week in the attempt to finish school. Fortunately, I accomplished my goal and I successfully graduated from college and happy with the career I choose. Don't ask me how (we) have managed, but we have gone through some testing times during that period. We can only endure those times in our life and live and learn from them. My hope is that we can accomplish another decade just as good, maybe better than the last ten years. Our journey has just begun....

As years go by-the kids keep getting older too. This past year our eight year old son, Charlie, started his first year of CCD for his upcoming communion. In the summer he also lost several of his baby teeth. Needless to say his recent pictures are toothless but still sweet as usual. Six year old Cristina, our middle child, embarked on what will be the first year of schooling for many years to come, I hope. My little girl started anxiously her first day of Kindergarten in the "big school" as she would say. She couldn't wait to join her big brother. Since Carolina, our youngest and four years old still has one more year for elementary school, We moved her from a farther day care to a smaller, closer and more amiable atmosphere. The move for her was no big deal. She wanted to stay the day we went to explore the day care. I am happy to say that she is doing very well and will be ready to join her brother and sister the following year. I can't believe how much they've grown and matured in one year. I am happy to be cherishing these special days with them.

In the summer we also took our very first BIG trip "where dreams do come true" to magical Disney World. I have to say that I was flabbergasted at the many things to see and do. Considering we only stayed for a week, we were able to accomplish more than what we expected. We all enjoyed the trip just as the kids did. We will see where this summer takes us next....

In August, I began my third year of teaching. Seems only yesterday, I was going to college and being pregnant in the fall every two years. I laugh at it now but I still remember doing my projects for school at home in the kitchen or living room floor with a belly. I had a lot of fun. I hope that all that studying while I was pregnant transmitted to my children in some way; maybe this is why they are so smart! What else can a mother say about her children?

Before the year ended and to our surprise, Charlie received a call we hoped to get from the county. He was hired to start working with the Department of Road & Bridge as a Mechanic. This was truly a blessing. He couldn't be happier to accept a change for the better and certainly an opportunity for professional growth.

We will see what's in store for us this year. We will take anything it has for us gladly and respectfully. Welcome 2008!

Thanksgiving in A & M

2007-11-25T09:33:00.000-06:00

This year, we were thinking of visiting my sister in College Station for the Thanksgiving holidays. (I wasn't sure if she was going to travel anywhere since she is 37 weeks and can go into labor anytime now.) I wanted to see her (our last visit was in Spring 2006) and these holidays were the perfect reason to visit.

Then, we got a postcard from my sister extending an invitation to spend it with them. I knew we were going to spend it with Charlie's family, but I also wanted to go see my sister and my cutie niece, Elena. So Charlie and I compromised. We spent it at his aunt's house and after our Thanksgiving lunch we headed for A&M. We almost didn't make it to "Aggie Land" due to car trouble, but Charlie worked his magic on our vehicle and we were on our way.

Although the visit was short, it was nice to have spent it with family. I especially wanted the cousins to spend time together.

At night, Josie and Omar took us to Christmas in the Park.
It was nice just walking around the park with lights everywhere we turned. The kids of course enjoyed it the most. Thank you Josie and Omar for a great time at A&M!

The WoodHouse Treatment

2007-08-29T20:06:00.000-05:00

After celebrating my birthday last week, I have to say that I was very happy and blessed to have family & friends share this day with me. I was happy just being surrounded with the people I love the most in my life. Two of those people are my In-Laws. I am very fortunate to have them in my life. They not only see me as the wife of their eldest son or the mother of their only grandchildren, but as their daughter. So on my birthday they did the unexpected. And although gifts are a tradition on birthdays, I was particularly surprised on the one that I received by them. They gave me a gift card to The WoodHouse Day Spa. There I literally received the "royal treatment". I was catered to the moment I set foot in their spa. From a glass of water, to a soft comfortable white robe, a hot pillow over my shoulders all to the culmination of their Seaweed Foot Facial. I've never been so pampered in my life! Needless to say, it was unusual having people there to accommodate your every need. With the hectic day of the first day of school, this was just what my body and feet needed. Thank you so much Mom & Dad for the wonderful gift!

Enjoying my evening at the spa

Me after the "royal treatment"

First day of school pictures

2007-08-27T18:16:00.000-05:00

Click to play | Make your own Smilebox

Disney Montage

2007-08-07T14:47:00.000-05:00

Click to play | Make your own Smilebox

Even though I am not going to begin this scrapbook anytime soon, I wanted to share a few photos of our trip in the meantime. Enjoy!

Worries of a Mother

2007-07-26T00:11:00.000-05:00

When we came back from Orlando, I was ready to take care of things that I needed to do before school starts. Such tasks as buying school supplies, new school uniforms, paying bills, cleaning house and all that entails after a week long vacation. However, I couldn't have expected what I was going to find out in the coming days about my Charlie Brown.

About five days ago, I noticed that Charlie was coming down with something. It started with a regular cough and then he couldn't stop coughing at night. He began complaining about his throat and some chest pains. I gave him over the counter medicine but nothing seemed to cure his long acting cough. As any Mother would, I took him to the doctor so that he could tell me what Charlie had. What I thought was a normal cough turned out to be something else. In the end, the doctor said his chest was congested and his airways were blocked. He said he had symptoms of Asthma and most probably developed these symptoms from the recent changes in the weather(from Orlando and Laredo). He is currently on the Nebulizer (Xopanex) and two other medications.

I have to admit that news like these tend to scare me. The doctor informed me that kids are easily suceptable to these types of illnesses. He assured me that he would outgrow this overtime. I certainly hope so.

Since Charlie has been taking his medications, he has been doing very well. He has a doctor's appointment on Friday for a check-up.

Return from Orlando

2007-07-17T23:44:00.000-05:00

Well, after a long week of driving, eating, walking, sleeping and tireless nights- we are back from Florida. We went to five parks! Even if we would have had an itinerary nothing could have prepared us for what was to come while in Orlando. We woke up early every day (we tried anyway)to get to our planned destinations as early as we could. Our goal: to go through every crook and crany of all the parks. After the third day, I have to admit we were exhausted already. There was just so much to do and so little time. The parks were overwhelming with tourists trying to do the same things we and thousands of people wanted to do. At times, the kids got restless and they would take a nap in their strollers. Because we went during hurricane season, we got much of the water while at the parks. It rained everyday of the week while we were there. We had to carry our umbrellas and raincoats daily to prepare for unexpected drizzles and showers. No matter the weather the show went on and we continued as planned. After the third day, we decided to take it slow and just enjoy our time at the parks and the city. Over all, we accomplished the impossible and got to take advantage of all the attractions, rides, and shows.
One thing is certain, we will never forget the good times we had in DisneyWorld.

Keep reading our blog for the latest pictures of our wonderful trip.

Martinez Family Reunion Scrapbook

2007-06-22T15:53:00.000-05:00

Click to play | Make your own Smilebox

Here is a scrapbook of the reunion. Since I can't bring or make a book for everyone, I brought it to you!

Feliz Cumpleaños, Rafa

2007-06-22T15:00:00.000-05:00

On July 3rd would have been my older brother's birthday. He would be 36 years old had he not had Leukemia. Although he passed at the very young age of 16, Rafa was full of life. I remember that while he was hospitalized our family was approached by an author by the name of Erma Bombeck. She was on a mission to write a book about children with cancer. Her efforts became a success. She wrote a book titled: I Want to Grow Hair, I Want to Grow Up, I Want to go to Boise. As a result of this, Rafa's drawing of Garfield was published in her book along with many other ill children that contributed with a short story or drawing. His drawing of the silly cat was attached to a machine with bubble thoughts above his head thinking, "I hate this machine". This picture still astonishes me to date. This only demonstrated that even though he was ill he had a sense of humor and only looked at the funny side of life. I own a copy of this book and treasure it with all my heart. They say time heals the pain...and although 20 years seems so long ago, to me it seems only yesterday when I was thirteen and my brother left us...the pain and sorrow is still there. Rafa is the bravest person I ever met. I was privileged to have had him as my brother.

Tu hermana que te extraña y te quiere mucho, Carmen

Disney Bound!

2007-06-20T23:02:00.000-05:00

In ten days we will be going on our first family trip to Disney World for an entire week. We will be traveling with Charlie's family. It might turn into a chaotic vacation with my kids, but we are sure to have a blast in the process. Charlie has been there before. On the other hand, it will be a first for me. So you can imagine my enthusiasm and eagerness to meet Mickey and the entire Disney characters-especially Cinderella. The kids are just as enthusiastic about going. They can't wait and are keeping a "countdown calendar" on our fridge to remind them everyday how many days we need until our trip.
As much as we would have liked to have flown to Orlando- we will be driving. Yes, you would think that flying would be a better choice with gas prices hitting the ultimate high this summer, but the cost of flying there would have been more expensive. So Charlie, his Dad, and brothers will be taking turns on our way to Orlando. We will be staying at a wonderful resort - the Sunterra Grand Beach Resort. Click here if you would like to see some wonderful pictures of the resort. Check back with us to see how our Disney Adventure went.

Martinez Family Reunion

2007-06-20T22:45:00.000-05:00

On April 14th we gathered at El Ranchito to celebrate a long awaited family reunion. From far & near, they were all there!

Charlie's family had not had a reunion since the passing of his paternal grandmother. Although it was a one day event it turned out to be a weekend they would never forget. I have been very fortunate to meet most of his family throughout our ten year marriage, but I have to admit that I was overwhelmed by the number of Martinez's in the family. They seemed to never end!

Just as there is a begining and an end-the reunion too had to end. It was sad to see everyone leave & return to their hometown. One thing was agreed -that they would do it again in five or ten years. If you'd like to see some pictures, check out the scrapbook above.

New Family Blog

2007-06-19T22:51:00.000-05:00

Hello, family and friends. Welcome to our family blog! I am very excited about keeping everyone posted about our everyday happenings.

With so many options out in the world wide web about posting your daily thoughts and interactions with people, I decided to finally create our own in this site. So hopefully you will enjoy what you read and see in our family blog. I will also be adding photos on our photo hosting page. Here is the link: Martinez Family Photos