The Hopkins Family

Halloween

2010-11-06T09:38:00.001-07:00

Hevan, Britney, Kendell, and Bradley

Dynamic Dads Day

2010-11-06T09:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Dynamic Dads Day at Britney's school. Britney's daddy couldn't be there due to work that day so her papa Rick filled in for him. They had to do a word scramble and it was really cute with what they came up with to unscramble this word "CIANOEFFT". TAN COFFIE was the word they came up with and Britney said "Papa that's what you drink all day" and then they both started laughing. The answer was suppose to be "AFFECTION" but I like tan coffie much better.

4th of July

2010-07-16T08:56:00.000-07:00

Kendell, Hevan, Bradley, and Britney

Britney showing Bradley the sparker. He's not to sure about it..

Me and Britney doing sparkler's together.

My sister, my mom, and me

Bradley, me, Annette, and Kenneth watching fireworks.

My dad, mom, Shelby, Chrissy, and Kendell

On the grass watching the fireworks.

2010-07-15T11:53:00.000-07:00

Jason and I holding a baby lion only 2 months old and weighing 40 pounds.

She was so sweet, I could have stayed there all day.

Her paws are about as big as my hand.

Friends Forever

2010-07-02T16:40:00.000-07:00

Autism brought us together but it's been the moments spent listening, talking, and spending time together that has made these girl's my Best Friends.

Getting Ready for Bed

2010-07-01T14:54:00.000-07:00

Lot's of hugging, kisses, and tickles right before I say Good Night to my little man.

Cherry Picking

2010-06-25T17:19:00.001-07:00

Bradley's like "What Ever" I'll carry this bucket and walk around watching you guys pick cherries.

Papa showing the girl's which kind of cherries to pick.

Britney and Kendell picking away.

Papa trying to get Brad to taste a cherry. Brad thinks that it is "Poison".

The girls in a race to fill their buckets full of cherries.

My Beautiful Girl...

Making sure it's good enough to go into the bucket.

I just love her...

The girl's checking out their cherry collection and papa dumping all the cherries into one bucket.

Strolling through the cherry fields.

Even from behind she is just so darn cute...

We had such a good time. It was the kids first time and something that my parents use to take my sister and I to do all the time when we were kids. We can't wait to do it again.

Update

2010-06-12T09:41:00.000-07:00

Thursday morning at about 7:50 in the morning I was sitting at my kitchen table and started to feel a little light headed and dizzy. It was when I st00d up that I felt the left side of my body start to go numb. I grabbed my phone and went to the couch to lay down. That's when everything started to fade quickly for me. I tried to call my mom and husband but could not remember their phone numbers, in fact I couldn't remember anyone's number including my own. It was at that moment I knew something felt very wrong. I was having some sort of chest pain, shortness of breath, the left side of my body was numb, and I was very confused. Britney had already left for school and Bradley was in the shower. I called 911 in fear that I was having a heart attack. After arriving at the hospital they did many tests to see if I had had a heart attack or TIA which is a mild stroke. All of my tests came back good stating that I didn't have either one of these and that it must have been an anxiety attack. I was very happy with the results knowing that my heart is fine but scared at the same time knowing that these attacks can pop out at any time. I will be going to the doctor in this next week to get some kind of medication to help with anxiety so that this doesn't happen again. What is so confusing to me is that I have been really happy and calm these past few months. Things have really settled down alot over here ever since we put Bradley on his medication. I'm just really surprised that I haven't had one of these attacks sooner when my stress was at it's peak, but hey, what doesn't kill me make's me stronger.

Getting Bigger

2010-04-24T17:18:00.001-07:00

Twin Day

2010-04-23T21:45:00.001-07:00

Today was twin day at Bradley's school. So instead of just the boy's being twin's today Julie and I were twins as well. Bradley loved all the attention with getting his picture taken and Noah did pretty well too.

Noah, Sian, and Bradley. This is Noah's one on one aide who helps Bradley too.

****************Bradley and Noah two peas in a pod*****************

Bradley and Noah with their teacher Tanya. We are so blessed and fortunate to have had such wonderful teachers these past few years. It makes such a huge difference in our kids lives when they actually like going to school and love the teacher and her aides.

One Month Today

2010-04-05T15:19:00.000-07:00

Today it has been exactly 4 weeks since we started Bradley on a medication called "Risperidone". Jason and I have seen such a huge difference in our son. This drug is not a "Cure" for Autism but it has deffinately helped Bradley to think much more clearly and to function in daily life. Bradley use to hardley sleep at night and now he is sleeping anywhere from 9 to 12 hours at night. Sometimes I think he sleeps to much but maybe he is just catching up on all the sleep that he has lost throughout the years. It has been so nice and quiet at night this past month. His stemming has also decreased in almost half. He is more aware and is even trying to talk more. He tries to mimick words instead of just saying "Pa" for everying. He still has melt downs and bangs his head, but that to has decreased. I guess what I'm trying to say is that the medication is working really well and we are really enjoying our time with our son.

Ever Wonder How Were Chosen?

2010-04-04T10:48:00.000-07:00

Did you ever wonder how mothers of handicapped children are chosen?

Somehow I visualize God hovering over Earth selecting his instruments for propagation with great care and deliberation. As he observes, he instructs his angels to make notes in a giant ledger.

"Armstrong, Beth, son, patron saint, Matthew, Forrest, Marjorie, daughter, patron saint, Cecilia."

"Rudledge, Carrie, twins, patron saint, give her Gerard. He's used to profanity."

Finally, he passes a name to an angel and smiles, "Give her a handicapped child."

The angel is curious. "Why this one, God? She's so happy."

"Exactly," says God. "Could I give a handicapped child to a mother who does not know laughter? That would be cruel."

"But has she patience?" asks the angel.

"I don't want her to have too much patience or she will drown in a sea of self-pity and despair. Once the shock and resentment wear off, she'll handle it."

"I watched her today. She has that feeling of self and independence that is so rare and so necessary in a mother. You see, the child I'm going to give her has his own world. She has to make him live in her world, and that's not going to be easy."

"But, Lord, I don't think she even believes in you."

God smiles. "No matter. I can fix that. This one is perfect. She has just enough selfishness."

The angel gasps, "Selfishness? Is that a virtue?"

God nods. "If she can't separate herself from the child occasionally, she'll never survive. Yes, here is a woman whom I will bless with a child less than perfect. She doesn't realize it yet, but she is to be envied. She will never take for granted a 'Spoken Word.' She will never consider a 'Step' ordinary. When her child says 'Momma' for the first time, she will be present at a miracle and know it!

"I will permit her to see clearly the things I see...ignorance, cruelty, prejudice...and allow her to rise above them. She will never be alone. I will be at her side every minute of every day of her life, because she is doing my work as surely as she is here by my side."

"And what about her patron saint?" asks the angel, pen poised midair.

God smiles. "A mirror will suffice."

~Erma Bombeck, May, 1980

Autism Awareness Day

2010-04-03T09:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was World Autism Awareness Day, but to me everyday is Autism Awareness Day. Having a child with Autism can be very challenging and hard on our family somtimes. But what some people might think is a problem or a burden can be one of life's most precious gifts. My son Bradley is one of the most sweetest and lovable boys you will ever meet. He has the face of an angel and his smile can even light up the darkest room. I can't imagine my life any other way but caring for my two beautiful children, one who just happens to have Autism.
Through this journey I have met some wonderful people that I would have never met had my son not had Autism. Don't get me wrong I wish that he didn't have this disability but he does, and instead of dwelling on what could have been I'm embracing what is. I have the most wonderful family and friends who are in our lives daily and I can't thank them enough for their love and support.
Having a relationship with a person who has a disability can be life changing. It sure has changed my life and I am a better person because of it. I love my son and all his friends with Autism and look forward to meeting more new friends in the years to come. Please keep Bradley in your prayers and share Autism Awareness EveryDay...

Kittens

2010-04-02T12:39:00.001-07:00

I didn't even know my cat Sassy was pregnant until Saturday night. Tuesday night at 11:45 Sassy woke the entire house up with her horrific screaming. I knew immediately that she was about to have her kittens. She was laying at the top of mine and Britney's head in Britneys bed. That is where she wanted to have her kittens but I immediatley moved her quickly to the bathroom where I stayed with her to watch all 5 of her kittens be born. What a wonderful experience it was to watch. I'm so in love with all the kitten's and it will be very hard to give them up. But I'm keeping at least one of them.

Carousel Ranch

2010-03-17T21:14:00.000-07:00

Bradley has been riding for 3 years now at Carousel Ranch. It's the one therapy that he actually love's.

Thankful...

2010-03-09T20:35:00.000-08:00

It has been a rough few month's over here at the Hopkins home. Bradley has had some pretty severe behaviors such as the head banging, biting his left arm so much that it's always black and blue, and banging his legs so hard leaving them bruised as well. It just breaks my heart daily to see him do this to himself. But as of Sunday evening, we started Bradley on a medication that hopefully will improve his behaviors and also help him to sleep at night. Bradley's first couple of day's on the meds has been quite different. The first day he was to calm and lethargic so I have been adjusting his medicine to find the perfect balance for him. The good news is that he hasn't been doing the self injurious behaviors to himself. Life is already starting to get better for Bradley and I promised him I will do everything I can to help him.

I really am thankful for all my blessings. I have a hard working husband who love's and provides for his family. My daughter Britney who is the joy of my life and a wonderful sister to her brother Bradley. And then their is my sweet Bradley, he is my reason to live and the glue that holds my family together.
He is my Son Shine...

Bradley and The Cat

2010-02-25T16:54:00.000-08:00

Bradley just love's our cat and our cat doesn't seem to mind Bradley.

Giving the kitty kisses...

Poking the cat with his finger.

He like's to blow on the cat's fur.

Bradley just checking him out.

Winter Time at The Beach

2010-02-23T10:20:00.001-08:00

There is nothing better than spending time with my family down by the beach.

Cuteness...

2010-02-21T07:39:00.000-08:00

My wonderful daughter and a joy in my life.

"CHARGER" FAN'S

2009-12-05T15:43:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving

2009-11-29T08:17:00.000-08:00

A group picture of my family on Thanksgiving.

*******************Britney, Bradley, Me and Jason**********************

My mom with all her girl's.

Thanksgiving dinner we all got to sit in the dinning room this year.

Something new we did this year was decorate my parents Christmas Tree on Thanksgiving Day.

Birthday Party for Brad & Brit

2009-11-22T07:53:00.000-08:00

We had a big bounce house with a slide, a pinata, and cake with lot's of friends and family to celebrate Bradley's 9th and Britney's 6th Birthday.

Bradley and Britney playing on the slide before the party started.

The birthday girl...

Britney and Ashley

Kendell, Ricky, Britney, and Jayden

Jayden and Britney were being silly.

Britney and Christian almost look like they could be brother and sister...

Getting ready to sing Happy Birthday.

My kids get really shy when they are the center of attention.

Happy Birthday Bradley and Britney and slow down your growing up way to fast...

The 2 Smallest Cutest Kids on The Block

2009-11-21T09:15:00.000-08:00

Britney and Jayden are just the cutest little couple together. Jayden is our neighbor and has been friends with Britney since they were three.

Silly Hats

2009-11-21T08:28:00.000-08:00

She's our little "Princess" and a wonderful joy to our life...

Disneyland

2009-11-19T20:55:00.000-08:00

A week before Britney's 6th birthday we took her out of school to spend the day at Disneyland. This was Britney's first outing with out her brother that she got to spend alone time with just Jason and I. We had so much fun and will continue to have our special day's with her.

She is so excited to finally be at Disneyland. We took her when she was a baby but that doesn't really count since she couldn't go on many ride's and does not remember it.

Britney was very excited to have us all to herself.

Britney rode all the scary roller coaster's. She wasn't to thrilled with Thunder Mountain.

Showing off her first tooth that she lost the night before.

Nana bought the girl's matching Mickey pirate ear's.

David and Chrissy took the girl's on the tea cups since Jason and I didn't feel like getting dizzy.

Having a blast in Toon Town.

All the girl's...

David and Jason with the girl's.

My silly girl.

The girl's having the time of their life.

Britney's favorite character "Minnie".

Our group shot with "Mickey".

Britney and Kendell waiting for the parade to start.

Halloween

2009-10-31T23:03:00.000-07:00

All of us carving pumpkins.

Mommy being goofy and tasting the pumpkin. Britney think's it's gross...

Daddy let Bradley draw on his pumpkin and then Britney carved out the design that Brad had drew. After all, it was his pumpkin and we wanted it to be something he did.

Bradley sticking his hand in the pumpkin picking out the seeds.

Britney helping Bradley get all the inside of the pumpkin out.

The "Pirate" and the "Lady Bug"

What a cute little Lady Bug she is...

Kendell and Britney
Cute little BUGS...

Kendell the BEE...

Our neighbor and Britney's cute little friend Jayden.

Getting ready to go Treating...Happy Halloween!!!

Baby "Chance"

2009-10-14T17:34:00.001-07:00

Today was the day we had a little lunch in at my house with Bradley's former teacher Julie from the past 3 years to meet her new little baby boy "Chance". He was just so sweet, cuddly, and simply adorable. I just love little babies they are so cute and so much fun, but don't get any ideas about me wanting more kid's cause I am done...
Although, I wouldn't mind being an Aunt again...

-------------------------- Julie and Chance ---------------------------------

He is just so cute and sweet...

Beach Fun

2009-10-10T08:36:00.000-07:00

My kid's have been off school this past week so I have been taking them lot's of places to keep them busy. Yesterday we went to the beach to run around and play in the sand.

Bradley look's so cute with his hood on.

He love's to watch the wave's.

Britney and Kendell running down the coast.

She love's to run on the beach.

Bradley love's to run from the wave's.

Kendell and Britney

She love's to pose.

My mom came to the beach with us too. She love's spending time with her grandkids.

My little blondie.

Me and my boy.

Me and Britney playing with Bradley (running from the wave's)

Even I was running in the sand. Yippeee.....

Lombardi Ranch

2009-10-09T09:39:00.000-07:00

Every year I take the kid's to our local pumpkin patch "Lombardi Ranch" and we pick out pumpkins, ride on the wagon train, and take lot's of picture's. It's a fun place for the kid's to run around.

Kendell, Bradley, and Britney holding their little pumpkins.

I had to get a picture of my two kiddo's together.

Kendell and Britney climbing on the big hay stack.

Bradley and Noah stimming on their hands on top of the haystack. They were having fun.

I can't believe I actually got Bradley to stick his head through that hole to take his picture.

Julie sat with the boy's on the wagon ride.

I sat with the girl's on the wagon ride.

Bradley and Julie (He just love's her)

Mommy and Britney.
I tried to get Bradley in the picture but he was having a major meltdown at that moment.

Kendell holding a BIG squash. Their is just something very wrong about that vegatable.

Julie and Noah

The girl's helping Julie with her pumpkin's.

Annette and Kenneth joined us there.

The girl's with Kenneth.

Bradley's 9th Birthday

2009-10-08T16:16:00.000-07:00

This year for Bradley's birthday we kept it small and simple since he has been having so many melt downs and not enjoying big crowds.

Singing Happy Birthday to Bradley and him hiding. He is so shy.

Bradley taking a peak at his cake.

After the singing stopped he wanted to taste his cake.

Bradley's friend Gio came over to play with him.

The boy's had so much fun wrestling.

It was so nice to see the boy's playing together and having fun.

My Sunshine

2009-10-02T21:06:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe that you will be turning 9 in just 3 more day's. We have been through alot and it's your beautiful smile that helps me get through our darkest day's. Keep on smiling my shinning star. You are my SON that brighten's my day...

These are some of my favorite picture's of Bradley before his autism.

Magic Mountain

2009-09-17T12:58:00.000-07:00

Last sunday we all went to Magic Mountain for my husband's union picnic. We had a blast and so did the kid's.

Our family picture

Me and my cute little cherub.

All of the girl's.

Bradley spotted out the candy shop right away and of course daddy bought him cotton candy.
(daddy like's to make sure we keep our dentist busy by giving our kid's sugar)

Having lot's of fun in Bug's Bunny Land.

Daddy riding the little roller coaster with Bradley in Bug's Bunny Land. Which by the way Bradley love's all the Big roller coaster's that are not in Bug's Bunny Land.

The whole group took a ride on Thomas the Train.

The kid's flying the airplane's.

Bradley love's this mini freefall ride.

Another train ride with sister.

Britney and Kendell with Tweety Bird.

Grandparent's Day at Britney's School

2009-09-04T11:24:00.000-07:00

Today at Britney's school they had Grandparent's day. It's a day where the kids grandparents can come in the classroom for a half hour in the morning to do an art project with them.

Britney happy to see her Papa.

Working hard...

They are doing some serious coloring right now.

The finished project. Granny and Grandpa puppets. Yay!!!

Britney's Share Day

2009-09-03T15:30:00.000-07:00

So today Britney got a note sent home with her from the teacher. It reads:

Mrs. Hopkins,
Britney had money today for the red cart. She bought herself a slushie and also bought 4 friends slushies. The children are not allowed to buy for their friends. She didn't know this. Please discuss it with her at home. Thank you.

So I discuss the matter with Britney and she get's mad at me for not telling her she wasn't allowed to buy for friends. I told her that she's not in trouble and it was very nice of her to buy her friends a snack, but not to do it again at school. Oh, did I mention that she spent all of her money that I gave her for the week in 1 day and now she think's I need to give her more money for tomorrow's snack.
I think not...

My Sweet Boy

2009-09-02T16:26:00.001-07:00

Two weeks into the new school year and things are slowly getting a little bit better. Well not really, but at least now I get a break and share him with his teacher. His sleeping patterns are getting better so that's a plus in my book. I just wish they didn't change so much.
Oh well, things could be worse right?

I guess I shouldn't complain about what I don't have and enjoy the things I do have.

Britney and Sassy

2009-09-02T06:13:00.001-07:00

So far so good with the kitty. Britney just love's her and so do the dog's. As for me, well, I like her, she's cute and all but she keep's clawing my leather chair's. So either I declaw her and make her an inside cat or get some chair cover's and see if that work's.
Britney is adjusting well to her new school schedule. Now that she is in first grade her day's are much longer. The first week of school was a really tough week for her but she has adapted pretty well.

First Day of 4th Grade

2009-08-25T20:34:00.001-07:00

This is a picture of Bradley right before he started his first day of 4th grade. This year will be very different for him because he has a new teacher. We have been very fornate to have had the same great teacher Miss Julie for the past 3 years and now we have all the adjustments to make for the new teacher Mrs. P. So far things have been ok. Bradley has had a few hard day's in the morning going to school but that is to be expected. I'm looking forward to this new year with his new teacher and can't wait to see the new and exciting things she teaches him this year. Wish him lot's of luck this year and even say a little prayer for him that he continue's to progress and has a successful year.

35 years ago...

2009-08-24T20:48:00.000-07:00

35 years ago today, my parent's got married to each other at a very young age of 20 years old. My sister and I along with our husbands surprised them with a cruise for their anniversary. They were both thrilled and are hopefully enjoying cruising right now. Here's to 35 year's.

Britney's First day of 1st grade

2009-08-20T17:20:00.000-07:00

Getting ready to walk to school on the first day.

We live in a neighborhood with all boy's.

Jayden and Britney are in 1st grade together.

Kendell starting her first day in 2nd grade at Britney's school.

Britney starting to get all emotional, so Jayden held her hand and walked her into the class room. It was the cutest thing to watch.

Long Beach Aquarium

2009-08-15T07:42:00.001-07:00

We had a good hour and a half yesterday at the aquarium before Bradley started to have one of his melt downs. The kids loved seeing all the fish and different sea creature's. Bradley enjoyed himself too and the best part was that we had already gone thru most of the aquarium when Bradley called it quit's.

Dexter Meets "Sassy"

2009-08-10T19:57:00.000-07:00

The newest and most unexpected member of our family Miss Sassy.

Sassy just chill's on my computer desk while I'm on the computer.

Hurricane Harbor

2009-08-09T07:20:00.001-07:00

Bradley, Kendell, and Britney

Bradley kicking back in his lounge chair.

This week at Hurricane Harbor the kid's met up with their friend Christian.

Kendell and Britney with their new matching bathing suits.

Christian and Bradley

Britney and Christian

Santa Barbara Zoo

2009-08-05T11:16:00.001-07:00

Britney, Gio, and Bradley watching the otter's.

Gio, Bradley, Josh, Kendell, and Britney

Bradley just love's fish aquarium's.

Monica with her boy's and me with my kid's and my niece Kendell.

Me and the girl's watching the elephant's.

Look what just hatched here at the zoo.

The girl's being silly.

Bradley and Gio wanted to get on the big turtle too.

Anxiously waiting to get on the train that take's you all around the zoo.

All Aboard...

Say Cheese girls...

The kid's being silly again

Annette, Kenneth, Bradley and Rebecca (Brad's therapist) walking along.

The Girl's

Can't go to the zoo without getting a group picture...

Bradley & Kenneth Playing on the Waterslide

2009-08-02T08:42:00.000-07:00

Hard Time's Again...

2009-07-28T21:09:00.000-07:00

I think that it is important for all the people who read my blog to know that our life can be really hard, sad, and heart breaking at time's.

I know that I alway's post the best picture's of my kid's because I love more than anything to see them happy. What I don't post to often are the sad photo's and the hard time's. Well for some reason, summer's are really hard on Bradley, which make's it hard on all of us. The crying, screaming, pinching, and now head banging make it difficult to do thing's and go place's with him.

We will get through this rough spot but for now my little man is suffering and in so much pain. I know that this is very hard for Bradley because he is very aware of the fact that he can not speak. I can see that he want's to tell us thing's so badly and when he can't communicate his want's and needs we get the severe melt down's of rage, anger, and destruction. I feel so helpless and useless as his mother sometime's. I can not fix this and I wish I could. All I can do is be there for him and hope that someday thing's will be better...

Hurricane Harbor

2009-07-25T05:57:00.001-07:00

At least once a week my friends and I all meet up at Hurricane Harbor to keep the kid's busy during the hot summer and to stay cool.

Kenneth and Bradley are both happy to be riding the Tram that will take us to the entrance of Hurricane Harbor. I love those smile's on the boy's.

Kenneth and Bradley interacting with each other. Kind of a rare moment.

Gio and Bradley waiting inside at the park.

Bradley and his Grandpa playing in the water and getting wet.

Of course we bring my niece Kendell with us every time so Britney has someone to play with.

Grandpa and Bradley going back for more.

Britney just love's little Joshua (Gio's little brother)

Bradley eating his lunch and using Grandpa as a pillow to lean on.

Kenneth eating his lunch and looking at the scenery.

My dad had the day off from work and joined in on the fun.

Bradley swimming in the Lazy River with Annette.

Monica with all the kid's on the tube while Bradley swim's with Annette.

Britney & Ashley

2009-07-22T16:30:00.000-07:00

Today was so much fun as Britney and I went to visit my friend Kerin and her baby Ashley. Britney just love's little baby's, especially girl baby's. Poor little Ashley had every bow and head band she owned in her hair in the short time that we were there. As you can see from the picture's Ashley has a different bow in each picture. But we had fun playing and visiting.

Britney, Kerin, and Ashley

Britney

2009-07-22T16:22:00.000-07:00

She looked so cute with her hair in curl's. I had to take a picture before she dove in the pool. I don't know why we even bother curling her hair because she swims almost daily. In fact, she swims so much that I have a hard time keeping her hair blonde because the chlorine want's to turn her hair green. Oh well...

Summer Fun

2009-07-20T16:13:00.000-07:00

With the temperature reaching triple digit's here in the SCV, I think it's time to get some kind of relief and head down to the beach. Summer school is over for Britney and Bradley is finishing up his last week. I can't wait so we can do more beach trip's.

My little "Beach Babe".

Bradley checking out the ocean from a different view.

Bradley just can't get enough of the water.

Lake Trip

2009-07-14T13:33:00.000-07:00

Faith, Jade, and Bradley

Faith and Jade tubing

Bradley watching the girl's tube

Cute little Wesley just got done eating a piece of red licorous.

Say Cheese...
Your another year older as we celebrate your 36th Birthday.

Britney sliding on the "Slip N' Slide"

The Girl's
Katelyn, Britney, Faith, and Hevan

Jason playing with Wesley

Daddy's
GIRL

I just love this picture of Hevan, Britney, and Jade

Bradley was happy as can be in the pool with the hose.
My kid should have been a fish with the way he love's water so much.

4th of July

2009-07-14T10:16:00.000-07:00

We spent the 4th up at Kevin and Suzie's house with some family.

Sunset at my house

Brandy, Faith, Brody, and Jade anxious to do fireworks.

Britney and Katelyn doing sparkler's.

Tired...

2009-06-27T23:10:00.000-07:00

Summer school, playing with friends, and daily swimming has this little girl wiped out by the end of the day.

Walk with Me, Dad

2009-06-21T13:00:00.000-07:00

Walk alongside me,
daddy and hold my little hand.
I have so many things to learn that
I don't yet understand.

Teach me things to keep me safe
from dangers everyday.

Show me how to do my best at home,
at school, and at play.

Every child needs a gentle hand to
guide them as they grow,
So walk alongside me, Daddy ~

We have a long way to go.

Having Some Fun

2009-06-20T20:36:00.000-07:00

On the actual day of our 10 year anniversary we spent time with cousin's because we had spent the week before on our cruise together.
The kid's had a blast riding around in the golf cart that Jade was driving.

Stopping just for a minute so I could take a picture.

And they are off again...

Over 2 acres of flat land for them to ride around on.

Me and Jade (I love this girl, she is very special to me)

Faith, Kendell, Jade, Me, and Katelyn
Britney is taking the picture that's why she's not in it.

Faith, Kendell, Jade, Wesley, Me, Katelyn, and Britney
I just love all these kid's. They are some of my favorite people to spend time with.

Our Honeymoon 10 Years Ago

2009-06-20T20:01:00.000-07:00

After our wedding day we flew to Jamaica the very next day.
This was one of our most memorable day's in Jamaica climbing the Dunn's River.

10 YEARS Today

2009-06-19T08:02:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been 10 years since we both said "I Do".
The time has flown by...

Anniversary Cruise

2009-06-18T09:36:00.001-07:00

Last week Jason and I took a little 4 day cruise with out the kid's to Catalina and Ensenada to celebrate our 10 year anniversary. We had so much fun and can't wait to cruise again.

Bon Voyage!!! Leaving Long Beach Harbor.

We cruised on the "Carnival Paradise" ship.

Taking the little boat to Catalina.

We rented a golf cart to cruise the island and I even drove it half the time.

Jason with the view of Catalina behind him.

My turn to take a picture.

I actually took this picture myself using the timer on my camera.

Look, there's our ship.

This picture look's like he is standing in front of a back drop background, but he's not.

Jason and I on the ship looking at the city of Ensenada.

Surfer's Healing at Malibu Beach

2009-06-17T21:32:00.001-07:00

On June 6th we took Bradley down to Malibu Beach where he was able to surf his 3rd year in the Surfer's Healing program for Autistic children.

Bradley on his way out to ride some wave's.

Bradley hanging on enjoying the ride. Well, at least I think he is enjoying it.

Getting ready to stand Bradley on the board.

Bradley is alot bigger this year than he was last year so it was harder to get him to stand up on the board. Bradley preferred to lay down than stand up.

Bradley and his surfer buddy posing for a picture.

My whole family came down to Malibu to watch Bradley surf.

We are all so proud of Bradley. He is such a good sport and participate's in all the activities that I sign him up for. Way to go Bradley!

Family Group Picture

2009-06-09T21:09:00.000-07:00

A few week's ago we had a family BBQ with my husband's side of the family. And of course, "Me" being the picture taking freak that I am had the tripod all set up to get a group shot. We had fun taking these picture's.

Brad's Last Day of 3rd Grade

2009-06-09T21:04:00.000-07:00

Beach Day at Britney's School

2009-06-09T20:51:00.000-07:00

Last week Britney had her end of the year class party for kindergarten and it was a Beach Day party. The kid's had so much fun. They all wore their bathing suits and did lot's of fun activitie's that included lot's of water and sun.

Britney just love's to jump rope.

Britney and Jayden in their sun hat's.

Brad's Class Picnic at The Park

2009-06-07T08:09:00.000-07:00

Bradley's class had their end of the year class party picnic at Heritage Park. The kid's all had a great time.
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Bradley and his teacher Miss Julie. We are going to miss her as she has been our kid's teacher for the past 3 years. This new school year will bring lot's of change's as our kid's go into the 4th grade with a new teacher.

This is our group minus a few of people.

Bradley's Singing Recital

2009-06-05T05:59:00.000-07:00

For some of you reading this your probably thinking Brad can sing. Well the answer to that is No. Bradley can't talk so how could he possibly sing. But just because most of the kid's in Bradley's class can't talk doesn't stop them from being a part in a Singing Recital. Some sing while other's sign and well Bradley just like's to sit there and look Cool.

Best Bud's
Noah, Bradley, and Kenneth

Bradley and Kenneth

Noah and Bradley

Noah, Gio, Bradley, Kenneth, and Edwardo

Gio, Bradley, and Kenneth

The whole class

Lake Buena Vista Part 2

2009-06-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

Daddy and Bradley going for a little sea-doo ride. My kid love's anything to do with water and has No Fear what so ever.

Jason and David with their girl's.

Me and Julie tubing. I'm a big time screamer when it come's to tubing but we had a blast.

Even our dog's Rusty and Dexter liked the water. When I was laying out on the big floaty island both of my dog's swam out to me.

Save a horse and ride a cowboy...

Miss Chip and Brit. Britney just love's Julie.

Me and my crew taking a picture in our boat.

Kendell and Nana out in the boat.

Me and my sister enjoying the ride.

Bradley and Papa walking. Bradley know's that papa has a soft spot for him and will do anything he want's him too.

Britney taking a picture with papa.

This is just one of our many boat trips.

My Parents

Jason and I watching the sunset.

Jack brought his guitar and played for us one night. Julie was supposed to sing but never made it out for that. There's always next time.

Our Group Camping picture

Lake Buena Vista Part 1

2009-06-01T18:51:00.000-07:00

Camping is something we all enjoy to do as a family. My parent's and my sister's family along with the Winkle family all went camping together at Lake Buena Vista. We had a great time and lot's of photo's to post.

As soon as we got to the lake Bradley ran straight for the water. This was his favorite spot to play.

Jason and I relaxing in the morning enjoying the view of the lake.

My sister and I laying out on our big island float.

Britney, Bradley, and Noah getting ready to go out on the lake.

Bradley and Britney having a good time driving the boat with their dad.

David and Kendell riding the sea-doo.

Britney just loves riding in the bow of the boat.

Bradley and Britney enjoying the boat ride.

Julie, Me, and Chrissy

Bradley

Noah

Julie, Noah, and Jack on the boat.

Britney, Kendell, Me, and Bradley

Britney sleeps on the top bunk bed in our motorhome with our dogs.

Noah

2009-05-25T09:44:00.000-07:00

So the other day I found my straws all poured out on the counter and immediately thought Bradley had done this. So like always, I clean up the mess and look for the plastic container to put my straws back in and cant seem to find it.

But then, I see Noah drinking out of an unusual cup and realize it's the straw container I was looking for.

Britney & Ashley

2009-05-23T10:30:00.000-07:00

Britney and I went to go visit Ashley and Kerin the other day. What an active, cute, and funny high maintnance baby she is. She is crawling and on the move all over the place. Britney and I enjoy our time visiting.

Ashley has one of the cutest little girl's nursery.

Mother's Day

2009-05-11T19:22:00.000-07:00

My mom is the BEST. She is the one person who is there for me and my family all the time.

My mom with her grandkids.

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Three generations...

Bradleys New Hair Cut

2009-05-10T21:06:00.001-07:00

Long hair or short hair, it really doesn't matter.
He is such a cute little stud muffin...

A Baby Shower

2009-05-10T10:17:00.000-07:00

Some of the mom's in Bradleys class threw Miss Julie a Baby Shower on Saturday. Julie has been our kids teacher for the past 3 years and we couldn't be more happy for her as she gets ready for her first baby. Julie is such a special teacher and friend to all of us and we are going to miss her as she will not be our kids teacher next year year.

Miss Julie striking a cute pregnancy pose.

In case you didn't know It's A Boy!!!

The cake was beautiful.

Julie and Me

A group picture with some of the mom's.

Another group picture with some of the aides and the staff at Helmer's.

Our Farewell picture...
What a great day we all had.

A Beautiful Day

2009-05-07T19:03:00.000-07:00

Enjoying the Sunny warm weather and spending time with Britney. She is such a funny little girl and a joy to be around.

Pool Time

2009-05-05T05:51:00.000-07:00

With the temperature rising we have been spending lot's of time near a pool. My kids just love the water.

Britney giving her brother a ride.

Friendship

2009-05-03T07:55:00.001-07:00

"Friendship is what gets you through the bad times and helps you enjoy the good times."

Cheer Leader, Dancer, Gymnists

2009-04-28T17:22:00.001-07:00

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Every day our little Britney practices doing her splits, cartwheels, and makes up dances. I think she is a little Cheer Leader, Dancer, or Gymnist in the making.

Time With Family

2009-04-28T08:36:00.000-07:00

Britney and Papa Rick

Britney was making silly faces and Papa laughing.

Cousin Josh and Britney

Bradley and Josh. My kid's adore their older cousin Josh. He is so good with them.

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Uncle Scotty hanging Britney upside down. These two are constantly teases each other.

Bradley at 3 years old

2009-04-25T09:37:00.000-07:00

2009-04-25T09:30:00.001-07:00

Before I knew what "stimming" was Bradley use to carry as many VHS movie holders as he could to stim on. As you can see in this picture he also had to sleep with them too.

Little Miss Brit

2009-04-23T06:12:00.000-07:00

It Feel's Like Summer

2009-04-21T22:54:00.000-07:00

The temperature was so hot last weekend that we spent all of our time at my mom's pool. It's only April and yet it feel's like July. What happened to April Showers?

Kendell and Britney jumping in the pool.

Me and my kid's cooling off in the spa.

Bradley playing in the waterfall.

Nana Get's A Tattoo

2009-04-21T22:34:00.001-07:00

So this is my mom's tattoo that she got on her right ankle. It's the "Autism Awareness Ribbon" with a little cherub angel holding on to the ribbon. It's very cute. Bradley is my mom's little angel and she wanted a tattoo that show's awareness in Autism.

FUN TIME

2009-04-18T21:17:00.000-07:00

Me and Jason at a wedding last Saturday. We had so much fun. What a great way to reunite with family at a wedding.

Giving my hubby some love...

My sister-in-law Lisa and me.

Taking a picture with the "Bride" Nicole.

Hevan and I at the wedding.

Nicole and Adrian's Wedding

2009-04-13T13:56:00.000-07:00

Easter Eggs & The Easter Bunny

2009-04-11T12:21:00.000-07:00

Bradley and Britney coloring Easter egg's.

Dad want's to color egg's too...

Bradley is amazed at the different color's that the egg's turn.

Jason, Bradley, and Britney coloring egg's the day before Easter.

Britney showing mom how pretty her egg is.

Britney and daddy making drawing's on their egg's and then coloring them. They look so involved and intense.

Bradley giving daddy a kiss on the lip's which is rare, he usually will give you his forehead to kiss.

Britney giving her daddy a kiss. She is a Daddy's Girl...

Britney, Kendell, The Easter Bunny, and Bradley

2009-04-06T16:43:00.000-07:00

My kid's are the sparkle in my eyes and the pride in my heart.

Me and My Kids

2009-04-05T12:58:00.000-07:00

Fun, Family, Friday Night

2009-04-04T09:43:00.000-07:00

It's alway's a good time when family come's over. The adult's got to visit with each other, the kid's played, we ate, and the mom's shared a couple bottle's of wine. What a great way to start the weekend...

Carousel Ranch

2009-04-02T16:29:00.000-07:00

Carousel Ranch is a great riding therapy for kid's with disability's. Unfornately because of the economy right now, Carousel Ranch has placed many demands on the parent's of the kids's who ride in order to keep there doors open. I'm going to try my best to help out in every way that I can because it would be very sad to see such a great program have to shut down. Bradley love's riding up at Carousel Ranch along with many of his friend's.

World Autism Awareness Day

2009-04-02T11:12:00.000-07:00

Today April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day, but for those of us who live with Autism, every day is Autism Awareness Day...

Boutique

2009-03-31T14:02:00.000-07:00

Another little boutique us girl's did selling our jewelry and Monica's scrave's. It was a fun day, although we had to get up really early to set everything up.

Annette and Monica holding down our EZ up. It was very windy that day and our shade
wanted to blow away.

Annette drinking her starbuck's coffee while I was still holding onto our shade.

Julie couldn't be with us that day so we dressed up the maniquinn and made a little name tag with Julie's name on it so that she would know that she was missed :)

And of course Monica modeling some of Annette's jewelry.

A Fiesta

2009-03-31T12:01:00.000-07:00

Monica made us an authentic mexican breakfast and let me tell you it was yummy....

These girl's always crack me up. I wish I could remember what they were talking about...All I know is it had to be really funny...

Annette giving me the finger

Me and Annetty
Monica's wedding picture behind us.

Me and Julie

***************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************Hooty Girls************************

I love this picture, sorry girl's I had to post it. This is just a reminder of how much fun we have together.

Cousins's

2009-03-30T20:30:00.000-07:00

Bradley, Hevan, Josh, and Britney

Britney

2009-03-26T12:07:00.000-07:00

Today was picture day again at Britney's school.

I took a few snap shot's before she went to school just in case in her picture's don't turn out. Which they alway's do.

Britney and her friend Jayden.

Baby Bradley

2009-03-19T06:01:00.000-07:00

So, I'm posting this picture because when I'm around Wesley I alway's think to myself how much he remind's me of Bradley when he was a baby. They look like they could be brother's. Of course this picture was taken back in the day when I was still using a camera with film in it. Now I have a fancy expensive camera that take's Fabulous picture's. I just wish I had this camera when my kid's were baby's.

Wesley & Britney

2009-03-18T16:13:00.000-07:00

Today we got to visit and play with Wesley. And I of course took lot's of picture's.

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Britney holding Wesley. She just love's baby's.

Cute Little Witch

2009-03-14T13:32:00.000-07:00

It hard to believe that Britney was 2 year's old in this picture. This was her first Halloween that she ran house to house trick or treating.

Kendell, Hevan, and Britney

Family BBQ

2009-03-04T14:37:00.000-08:00

Bradley out in the back field.

Britney and her cousin Brody

The Boys
Jason, Kevin (Jason's Uncle), Jeremie holding Wesley (Jason's Cousins), and Johnny (Jason's Cousin)

The Girls
Tammie, Me, and Suzie
We all married into the family.

Bradley sitting on Jade's lap while we all sang Happy Birthday to her. He was trying to be as close to the cake as he could possibly get.

Wesley loving the cake.

Field Trip

2009-02-27T20:49:00.000-08:00

Today I went on a field trip with Bradley and his classmate's to the Castaic Lake Water Agency. Although we have been up there many time's before because Bradley's nana Linda(my mom) work's up there and it is also the place were I got married. Bradley and I are no stranger's to this place but we still had a good time and Bradley's nana got to do the field trip with us too.

Me and Bradley making our way into the garden.

Dena and Alexandra

Kenneth and Alan in the water pipe's.

Me, Bradley, and My Mom (I Love This Picture)

Bradley's teacher Julie leading the group in the garden.

Bradley

Kenneth and Alan

Julie, Noah, and Jack

Kenneth and Bradley sitting in the lobby taking a break.

Britney Got An Award

2009-02-21T08:33:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I went to go watch Britney get an award in "Effort".

Britney's friend Jayden also got an award too.

My Kids

2009-02-18T18:09:00.000-08:00

Britney looking oh so cute in her pink beanie hat.

Bradley playing in his bed and Louie just sat there next to him the whole time.

Bradley's Buddy's

2009-02-17T22:28:00.000-08:00

So today really got me thinking on how far Bradley and his classmates have come as I brought Bradley to school this morning in the pouring rain. I watched Bradley along with his classmates sit and wait so patiently inside the hall lobby for there teacher to tell them it was now time to go to the classroom. I thought to myself these are some really great kid's who are really well behaved.
Bradley has come along way. His very first day of school the day after he turned 3 he was required to wear his backpack and walk in a single file line. As I watched him struggle to do these two simple task's I knew our journey wasn't going to be easy. But somehow, thing's just seem to fall into place when your not looking or least expect it too.
The two thing's I love most about Bradley and his friend's are there smile's and there sound's of happiness and laughter.

Bryson

Kenneth

Noah

Bradley

****************************************************************************Gio

***********************************************************************************************Alexandra

**********************************************************Bryson before his hair grew out

***********************************************************Kenneth is just too cool

***********************************************************************************Noah

Bradley playing in the sand. Something he love's to do.

Gio

Alexandra

Bryson

*************************************************************************************************Kenneth

Noah

***************************************************************************************************************************************Bradley

Gio

Alexandra

Bradley sitting between his two best friends...