Sunday, August 29, 2010

Suprise Visits!

I knew of a surprise visit that may happen, but then I got a phone call and was asked to pick two lovely young ladies up at the airport. Amanda and Alyssa (joe's cousins) came in to Reno for a visit.

We couldn't just have any old visit. Time was a little strained being as we had a day and 1/3 to spend with them and two families to split it between. I picked them up at the airport last Wednesday evening, and when we arrived home we just watched a movie and ate BoCa burgers (thanks marie). Thursday was another story, we got up and ate lunch at our favorite restaurant. The girls tried sushi, and they liked some of it. They even tried mussels...
Next, we decided to take the girls to give Alyssa her graduation present, and Amanda wanted something too but she wasn't old enough. Alyssa got her inner cartilage pierced, and I got my nose pierced. When we returned home that afternoon, we had to decide how the girls were gonna spend time with their other family.

Lianne, Matt, Chloe and Rilee came over for some play time and then we all went out to Red Robin for dinner. I believe the girls thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Their visit was short, but sweet and we hope to do it again.

WARRIOR LEADERSHIP COURSE!

So if he wasn't already a warrior, the army thought they'd make him one. Joe just returned from Warrior Leadership school a couple of weeks ago, he spent two weeks at Camp Williams in Riverton, UT. He had an amazing time, learned new things, and even made a few new friends. He even learned about an amazing deployment opportunity coming up, in which he is inclined to participate in. Here is a picture of his team at WLC...

Thursday, August 12, 2010

From Cribs and Toddler beds to BunkBeds!

So I was kinda having nostalgia over the boys getting new beds, but it been an amazing change.

Josh spent his last night in his crib/toddler bed, and I had no idea how he was going to adjust to sleeping in a big boy bed. So far he is doing really well and has only fallen out once... Since Grandma Marie and Papa Abel got the boys their brand new bunk beds (for an amazing deal), we decided to redecorate their room in a new theme! We aren't quite finished yet so I will post more pictures when I am done... here's a start.

Rachel Turns 22!

I don't care which way you look at it... 22 looks good!
Yesterday was my birthday, and I had a plan of doing absolutely nothing. Marie and Abel were in town (by accident of course), so during the day I went furniture shopping with Marie. We got BuNKBedS for the little ones, and they are so adorable, and also a futon frame for the futon downstairs. Then when we came home, Josh went down for nap and I enjoyed some "pamper me" fun. I got ready for dinner with my parents where they said they would go with me to my favorite SUSHI restaurant. Dinner was amazing and even my step-dad Mike tried everything. My mom of course got the delicious salmon teriyaki they have. When it came time for desert, instead of cake, I received a beautiful fruit arrangement with a candle in it.
Unfortunately, Joe was unable to come because he was out of town for military training. All in all it was an amazing birthday!

Deployment to... Where?!

Well Joe has been itching for another deployment... So he found one, with the 45th Infantry BTC. It will be sad to see him leave again so soon, but I am fully behind everything that Joe wishes to do. As for me, I will be filling my time with Nursing School and Josh... again.

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions...

So Joe and I have been talking a lot lately about moving. Not just moving around Reno, but moving out of Nevada. We have been considering Texas and Utah, and Texas would be nice but at the same time it would be so far away from both of our families that there is much more to be discussed. Utah would give us the change of scenery but wouldn't put us that far from our families.
We are both excited about this change, we just wonder if we can actually make it happen.

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Good bye husband, hello empty bed...

So, the army has been sending Joe to training after training. Mainly they are just trying to get them out of the way. In this year Joe has so far been gone for combatives training in Vegas, then to Haiti, then this week was WLC, and in a week from now Joe will be leaving for Utah, and then there is something in September he will be going to, and then BNOC in November. So I may only see my husband a few weeks over the course of the next few months.

So in other words, its good bye husband... hello empty bed...

Troubling Times...


So Joe and I hit a standstill in our relationship, where we found ourselves asking "where do we go from here?"

After some soul searching and some long conversations, we decided that we love each other too much to throw 3 1/2 years away, not to mention that it would hurt Josh. We decided that the right thing to do for us would be to talk to someone to help guide us to the right path. The path in which I know that both of us should be on. Joe's dislike for his job, my struggles with school, and our financial situation were starting to take a toll on our relationship. When we took a step back and a deep breath we realized this is not something that we could do alone.

One week after this transpired, I believe our relationship is in much better shape and headed for the right path.

We took a night to ourselves this last week where we went out and just enjoyed each others company with no worry of money (I set money aside) , jobs, or school. I believe we had a great time and we were surrounded by supportive and loving friends. I even came to make a new friend in Joe's Army buddy's wife. We realized since both of our husbands are in the same unit, we could be each other's shoulder to lean on if needed.

In time's like these, where it is nice to not feel alone.

Miss Hayley's Visit!


So Miss Hayley came all the way from Texas to visit and socialize with the family, and also celebrate her 21st birthday! We were so excited to have her come all this way out to visit her family. The only problem with this visit was Marie and Abel's truck broke down so they came in late on the 9th, and Joe was stuck with Army Guard Drill. So unfortunately, we were not able to complete some of the plans we had made. Lisa and Jeff brought Hayley into Reno Friday July 9th, and went to Lianne and Matt's for dinner. Saturday was little Miss Chloe's birthday party. Joey, Josh, Marie and myself attended this pool party and the children had an amazing time. Thanks to Grandma the kids got new floaties so they were able to explore the water and enjoy themselves.
After a long day, Saturday we were ready to relax on Sunday but that was not in the plan. Hayley turned 21 and it's a big deal... So Lisa and I planned a surprise party for Hayley Sunday night. I grilled chicken and pineapple kabobs and made oven roasted potatoes, my mom made chipoltle bow-tie pasta salad, and we had chips and dip, fruit, and veggies for appetizers. It was all around a great surprise. I even got her a three tier waterfall cake that my wonderful friend and cake decorator made special. After the party and Lianne and Matt left (they had to get up early the next day), Lisa and Jeff kindly practiced their reflexology on almost everyone's feet. THANKS GUYS! Then we drug out the rock band, and had a good ol' time making idiots out of ourselves. What a great weekend.

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Joe's Deployment to Haiti

So right after Joey's 5th birthday bash, Joe was set to head off to Haiti for a short-term deployment. The trip didn't start off very good because when they went to board their aircraft at wee hours of the morning there was a light bulb out and turns out that puts the entire plane out of commission until the part is replaced. So they had the light bulb rushed in from Victorville, CA and they were off one day behind schedule. Once Joe arrived in Haiti I got a phone call letting me know he had arrived. During his deployment he was very busy so I only received a phone call about once a week. Joe is now home safe and sound. Here are a few pictures from his trip...

Joey's Big Birthday Bash!

So I know I'm a bit late, but we had Joey's 5th birthday party this year, and boy how time flies... Joey got a Pirate themed party this year, and he had such an amazing time. He was able to dress up in his Pirate halloween costume, and he really enjoyed that. The guest list included Grandma Marie and Papa Abel, Grandma Elaine and Grandpa Mike, Daddy and Rachel (with Josh of course), Great Aunt Lianne and Great Uncle Matt and cousins (Chloe and Rilee). We all were fighting a bout of sickness that weekend but we were determined to enjoy ourselves, I think Josh was the sickest but still managed to have a great time. Joey was very blessed by all of the gifts given to him. All of the kiddos enjoyed themselves and I believe the the adults did too. Here are some pictures of the festivities.

Friday, June 11, 2010

A lot has gone on...

So a lot has happened since the last time I wrote. Joey's birthday bash was a success, and we believe he got exactly what he wanted. (I'll post some pictures later.) I postponed starting school for a month, and Joe left on a deployment to Haiti. He has made it safely, and I'll keep you posted on things as they happen.

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Joey's Big 5th Birthday Bash!

We are hosting a big birthday bash for Joey. We have decided to do a pirate party, with costumes and all. It should be a lot of fun. If you didn't recieve the invitation and would like to come reply here... http://www.evite.com/pages/invite/viewInvite.jsp?inviteId=XDLTNUWCPOWYSTTZOTDB Hope to see you all there!

Saturday, May 22, 2010

So I'm Working Really Hard...

Back in January I received a letter from TMCC stating that due to budget cuts the Nursing Program would be effected in the way of student cuts... Apparently "student cuts" were easier than cutting other programs. Unfortunately, I was one of the 167 students that was "cut" from the program. When this news arrived in an email, I went directly to the only other place that I knew I could make it. Apollo College. The only thing the campus here in Reno teaches is Nursing. I was so excited when they offered me a spot, but there was a problem. My financial aid was denied for the 2010-2011 year. So what am I to do now? Joe and I had made an agreement as long as I go to school he would work extra hours and pay the bills until I was done... Well, since I was not able to attend Apollo this fall, I chose another route. I signed up for Milan Institute for the Massage Therapy program. The program is only 8 months long and I start in June, and graduate February 1, 2011. Its exciting to be able to contribute to our financial situation. I am going to finally feel better about our deal. I want to help so that Joe is not so stressed any more so we will see how it goes...

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Mary Anns Wedding and Sea World






So if moving into our house wasn't enough, the very weekend after we were set to attend Joe's aunt Mary Ann's Wedding, and since we didn't get to go to Monterey this year we decided to take the kids to Sea World... We all had a great time. Here are a few pictures from the trip.

Okay! Okay!

I know I have been horrible at this whole blog thing since we moved so watch out, I'm posting them all now. So you will have plenty to read...

Monday, April 26, 2010

The stress of moving...

I've been in direct contact with our landlord Nancy, and she has been fabulous. She is letting us move in soon, and I can't wait. Unfortunately, three of the people who is helping us move have canceled because they are brothers and they are going out of town together. So it looks like its back to Joe and I to move all of our belongings, which sucks because I can't lift like Joe does... I will try and do all I can, but sadly enough I have been the only one packing anything. I kinda want to hire some guys to come help.

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Moving!

So its finally happening. We are moving into our first house, and we couldn't be more excited. I have packed over 2/3rds of the apartment already and am just waiting to pick up more boxes so I can finish the rest. We were able to move some of our stuff into the garage of the house yesterday. It looks like its gonna be a long move but we will get it done and I can finally start making this rental home our home. For everyone who doesn't know the address will be the Rodriguez Family 4330 Matich Dr. Reno, NV, 89502.

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Joshuas 2nd Birthday!






Joshua's party was a success, he got lots of presents and ate lots of cake... Here are just a few pictures of the night...

Monday, April 12, 2010

Planning a Last Minute Birthday Party!

So ever since Joe told me that we were unable to take our family vacation this weekend, I have been racking my brains trying to figure out what to do for Joshua's 2nd Birthday. I spent all day Monday calling every place in town and pretty much everybody told me no availability. This made me really upset because we wanted to do something special for him. Finally about 4pm on Monday I had a revelation. I called one more place that I hadn't thought of... COCONUT BOWL. They not only had availability they had blacklight bowling and mini golf. I was so excited to finally find a place to hold Joshua's party. Saturday April 17th 2010 at 6pm. It should be a blast...

Sunday, April 11, 2010

Our Vacation is Cancelled!

Joe just came home from drill weekend and told me that he has "drill stuff" to do this week. I asked him if this was going to affect our vacation this weekend and Joe just looked at me. He told me that we could go Friday night and come home Sunday morning. This is not a VACATION, its a waste of gas. So needless to say I was severely upset.

Saturday, April 10, 2010

Meeting New People...

I had the chance yesterday to meet the nicest lady... Joe and I went to view a house in Donner Springs (Mira Loma and McCarran area) yesterday. I have to admit the house is older and it needed to be cleaned up a little bit, but this woman that I met yesterday is in her late 50's early 60's and she is all alone, managing property and taking care of her 5 dogs (wow) is what she does with her time. I felt bad when we walked in because yes, the house was older and yes, it really needed a new coat of paint inside. Overall the house was nice and there were little things that needed to be fixed here and there, but it was a house with a wood burning fireplace. We liked it, and started talking to the owner and we were very honest with her and she is willing to work with us... So I go back to the house at 11 am this morning to fill out the application and hopefully by next week we'll have a house...

Thursday, April 8, 2010

The house hunt starts again...

Even though our last attempt fell through, we are still looking for a house to call home. I have managed to set up two appointments for houses tomorrow. One house is off of Kings Row and is a 4bedroom with a den, which would be nice, but it is only 1800 square feet so I have to wonder how big the bedrooms are... The next one is actually right around the corner from the house that turned us down. The lady says its a tri-level home, but you wouldn't really think that. It has four bedrooms and I believe 3 bathrooms, which would be super nice. She also said that Aiden would not be a problem, which is what we have been worried about. This lady seems like she really needs this place rented soon, and has said she is willing to work with us. So cross your fingers and toes. Here goes round two...

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

So Sad.... :(

So we didn't get the house that we were trying to get. So we are once again on the hunt... I have so far found a 4bdrm with a den off of Kings Row in Reno, a 5 bdrm 3 bath on Gyger Grade, and another 4 bdrm tri-level in Donner Springs so hopefully one of these becomes our new home!

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Its Official!

Only 15 days until our family trip to Monterey California! I am so excited, I have been planning this trip for two years. Finally we get to go, and it is the weekend of Joshua's birthday which makes it extra special. We plan to visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, build sandcastles on the beach, shop on the wharf, and take the famous 17 mile drive down Carmel... I feel so blessed that I have a husband that is willing to do this with me. We are picking up our rental car Friday April 16th and taking the long drive down to Monterey. Friday afternoon we will probably just check into our room, get comfy, and eat dinner. But look out on Saturday! We will be hitting the two story Aquarium and visiting all sorts of animals. Joey is most excited about the sharks, and I think that Josh will love just about everything. As for myself, I have been dying to go here for years, so I will just be happy setting foot inside. Joe doesn't seem as excited as I am, but I know he'll like it.

Just when you think you've seen it all...

Children are always surprising you, and it is hilarious what they come up with some times. Joshua's latest WTF moment was while I was on the phone with my mother. Joshua had been messing with the laundry that I had just folded. I looked over and Joshua had taken his pajamas off and had replaced them with a pair of Joe's boxers. He had his feet through them and all...

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Horrible Blog Poster!

So I have been horribly slacking lately. So here is the update...

TMCCs budget cut impacted our family greatly. I was notified a couple of weeks prior to the cuts being made and was told if I did not have a 3.5 or higher gpa by the end of the semester that I would lose my place in the Nursing program. Unfortunately, even with straight A's this semester I would only have a 3.42. So I took my chances and applied for a nursing program elsewhere. Apollo College is located in south reno, and the campus here only teaches nursing. When I went into apply they felt that I would be an ideal candidate so I start this fall.
Josh is growing bigger and bigger by the second. As of this last weekend he became a big boy! He is now sleeping in a toddler bed. He is so excited to be sleeping in a big boy bed. Of course I did have to buy a better bed railing, because our child likes to roll out of bed. The first night in his new bed he only fell out once, but it was enough to scare him. Now with the new railing he is back to that excited stage. Now we are getting ready to purchase our first set of bunk beds for the kids, and could use help.
Joey is still getting used to Josh. We are trying to teach him the difference between tattling and tell when its something that might hurt him or Josh. Also, we have learned that Joey has discovered how to "lie." He has begun blaming things on his brother when Josh couldn't have possibly have done it. We are trying to explain to him that it is not okay to blame someone for things they have not done and that it is more rewarding to tell the truth. It will take some time but I am sure he will learn the difference.

Joe is still trying to get on with another law enforcement department. He has become increasingly unhappy at his job with Nevada State Prison, and has begun looking for work even outside of Nevada. The thought of Active Duty has crossed his mind, even deploying again just so he can feel more productive about his career choice. Other than work, Joe is excited that his best friend Ben Rogers will be returning home from a year long deployment in Afghanistan April 1st (and no its not an April fools joke).
As for our family as a whole... Well Joe and I have found a beautiful 4 bedroom 2 bath house that is well over 1900 sq ft. The house is massive and we love it to death. It is perfect for our family and they are willing to accept our pets as a part of the family. We are just so excited to be starting a new chapter in our lives, and this time it includes a house!

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Meet Baby...

Joe and I went into the pet store last sunday looking for stuff for Aiden, and well Josh fell in love with the turtles. So we decided we should buy Josh a turtle for his birthday, unfortunately turtles carry a heavy strain of salmonella that is no joke, so I said no. Instead Josh got a fancy dumbo ear rat for his birthday. He named her baby, well actually that's the only thing he could call her, but it has stuck. She is very adorable and gets along with all of the animals in the house, she's even taken a liking to our cat scratchy (he sticks his nose in her cage she bites it and the cycle repeats). Josh and Joey are going to be the most spoiled children around...

Friday, March 5, 2010

Stars and Solar System...

Recently we have been trying to decorate the boys room. We've settled on stars and planets, and to be honest its coming along great... I stuck up those glow in the dark stars all over the room, and just recently Marie (my mother-in-law) found a planet projector night light in which Josh loves... Then I put up the planet stickers over one wall and made it look fantastic. I just need to finish decorating and the room will be finished...

Joshuas First Dentist Appointment!


Josh did great at his first Dentist appointment, he did cry when she was stretching out his cheeks to check for cavities but in the end he did so good and even got a prize for being so good...

Monday, March 1, 2010

Bridges Crossed and Battles Won...

So its official. Joe gets to keep his job after all. Not only are they not closing NSP, they are putting all of the state of Nevada employees back on 12 hour shifts. Yay! Well not exactly for me, Joe enjoys 12 hour shifts cuz he gets more time off, but not for me because for 3 or 4 days a week I get very little help with josh or around the house. We'll see what the future holds for me and for us. We'll make it through.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

2010 Family Photos

At the start of every year, I try my hardest to get everyone up and going and off to take family photos. This year we did it the day before Valentines day, and believe me it was a lot of work. Josh has this new found fear of heights, Joey is in his rebellious "I'll only do it if I get a reward" stage, and well Joe is Joe and doesn't like having his picture taken. So really this whole process was like pulling teeth, Literally! But we got them done, here is the preview, we will be sending out hard copies to friends and family once we receive them.

The Rodriguez Family 2010:

Joe and Rachel 2010 - Married 2 years this June, together 3 years in March.

Joey and Josh - brothers

Joey - 4yrs old, 5 yrs in June.

Josh - 1 yr old, 2 yrs in April.

Monday, February 22, 2010

Sometimes he can be the cutest...

Believe me, Joshua can have his moments. Lately it has been mostly the tantrums and the screaming and every now and then he can be a good little boy again. Here is his latest "good" moment. So Aiden's (our dog) food was sitting in the kitchen next to the bag of dog food and his dish was empty, so josh took it upon himself to feed the dog. One kibble at a time...