My new book

This is a dream come true for me. I've published my first children's book. 

If you're interested in buying a copy, the printing company is running a Valentine's Day sale of 14% off. 

I'm so thankful for everyone who helped me a supported me in this endeavor. 

http://mamasmilkiesbook.com

The beginning of Summer Vacation July 2013

Our Summer vacation started early this year because of my grandfather's failing health. Thankfully we made it home in time to say goodbye. I have already written about our memories from that time in a previous post. Here are some pictures from the beginning of our trip home.

talking to Daddy about the float

Daddy took us to the train station. They have an amazing display there. The float moves around and plays music to replicate the famous summer festival.

Violet was asking Mamo about the animals on the walls at her house. (My grandfather was an avid hunter)

getting some love from Mamo.

Aunt Madelyn, Uncle Matt and Aunt Kim

We spent many of our first days in the States at Mamo and Papo's house. One day when we were there, Gracie (my cousin's daughter was having a great time in the front yard. So we joined in.

Gracie's cool Aunts were watching her for the day because her mommy had to work and it was Gracie's birthday. So they wanted to do something fun for her. They went and bought water toys with her and had a blast in the front yard! It was awesome! Like so many of my summer memories as a child. I am so glad Violet got to experience this with her cousin.

Violet didn't have her swimsuit but I told her she could play in her tshirt and undies... as long as she kept her hat on. :)

Getting a ride from another cousin Mattie. She joined in the fun too!

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She loved every minute of it!

They became fast friends!

My cousin Lauren is Gracie's Aunt. I used to take care of her when she was little. They grow up so fast!

After all the water fun, they got her dressed up and took her to meet her mommy for dinner.

My beautiful niece and goddaughter. This was shortly after Papo had passed away.

Some moved outside for some fresh air. There was actually a nice breeze that blew in that afternoon. It was such a beautiful relief in so many ways.

My brother Sixto made Posole for dinner that night and we all ate together there at my grandparents house.

Mamo came to the table after a long sit outside. She wanted to watch Papo being taken to the hearse. She hadn't been sleeping or eating well for so long. She was able to breath I think for a few moments after the shock wore off. Of course soon her grief would take hold and she would not quite ever be the same again. My beloved Mamo. I love you so dearly.

Everyone comforted one another. This is Sarah and my sweet Aunt Thelma.

Eos and Sixy spent the night at my dad's house that night. It was good for all the kids to be together. She needed some clothes the next day though. Eos is wearing one of Violet's dresses as a shirt and Violet is wearing a dress that was once Eos's. :)

Violet and Elizabeth got along so well.

Sixto and Aunt Nini

Eos the little mommy

she is going to be a good mommy one day.

we all gathered at Mamo and Papo's house after the funeral.

my cousins put together an amazing slide show. We all watched it together. Everyone tried to cram in that room to get a good view.

This is where we used to sit when we were waiting on Santa to come on Christmas Eve.

some watched from the window :) I love you Sammy and Uncle Sam!

now there's Lauren, Melanie, Stephen and Uncle Sam peeking in.

some ended up outside, even though it was raining.

the kids decided to play in the mud

Eos dove right in, even though she was in her fancy dress.

That's my kind of girl. Not afraid of the mud! I love you Eos!

Later that week we had dinner with our dear friends The Longs. We met at Elizabeth and Josh's house. Eos and Sixy wanted to exercise!

Fun times are always had with the Longs/Downeys

The boys minus Matt (who had to leave for a show)

Typical Jason and Sixto

brothers at heart

the girls

silly girls

Violet loves Elizabeth

having a sweet moment

she couldn't get enough hugs

I will post more pics in another post. I am trying to group them together as best I can. I feel bad that they are all going in random order but at least I am trying right. :) So many wonderful memories.