Soto Sound-Off

Mr. Mom Delivers

2009-07-08T16:33:00.008-05:00

The first month into my new job required 4 days of travel in CA. Of course, this meant that Rudy would be handling all things on the home front ALONE: Rousing kids in the morning, dressing them, feeding breakfast, driving them to school, working all day, picking Mason & Chloe up from school, taking them to the park/on walks/to the library, feeding them dinner, doing all household cleaning/laundry/dishes, bathing the kids, brushing their teeth, reading bedtime stories/saying prayers, vacuuming, going by the store, & taking care of my Guinea Pig - then getting up the next morning to do it again!

With the looming burden of concern I encountered upon pondering my time away, it seemed entirely reasonable that I would provide Rudy with a few tools to help things run smoothly in my absence. So...I left notes taped all over the kitchen cabinets, entailing meal ideas (including ingredients) & various reminders. In addition, I laundered every last article of clothing, and sorted outfits for Mason & Chloe to wear each day I was gone, then placed them in sealed plastic bags. Could I have made it any easier for him to do without my presence for a few days? Needless to say - no major catastrophes ensued upon my departure and things appeared less disheveled than expected when I returned! Here's to my next trip! :-)

It Just Wasn't My Thing

2009-07-06T11:25:00.022-05:00

This concerns the extremely commendable, highly valued, incredibly significant job of a Teacher. One that I previously assumed would be ideal for me. When I initially began my college program (slightly delayed, I might add), I selected a major that would focus on such a career. I didn't have children of my own yet, the purpose of education was admirable, and working independently while enjoying the flexibility of lesson plan development and instruction (not to mention the summers off), seemed perfectly suitable to my strengths and desires.

This decision, however, was made quite hastily. Was I really in that big a hurry to assign a major to my BA? What sort of impulsiveness caused me to select such a career path, prior to ever thrusting myself into the environment of public education that I would ultimately claim as my home away from home, each and every school day of the year?

I have discovered something quite significant about myself following this past decade of growth. I thoroughly enjoy change by means of a dynamic, evolving workplace, and I thrive in positions that allow for flexibility, advancement potential, an element of leadership, and limited red tape. I've realized that if not allowed some freedom to exercise my thoughts, opinions, and ideas on a given project or position then I feel stifled, insignificant, and unproductive.

Without making a long story even longer, I'll just summarize with saying that upon entering the classroom as a student teacher and getting a sense of the administrative hurdles, lack of freedom on assessing student learning, late nights devising lesson plans, and the length of time required prior to advancement, proved too much for me to commit to this field. Unfortunately, I presume much of these concerns discourage many qualified and ambitious individuals from entering the school system as a Teacher. Nonetheless, I am grateful for this realization and have developed a more genuine understanding and appreciation for wonderful instructors and their dedication to the education of our children.

Once I arrived at the conclusion that I would alter my profession, there was an enormous sense of relief - that is, on my part only. Convincing Rudy to jump on board with this decision took additional time and explanation of my career detour. Another positive outcome that resulted was finally realizing that it was every bit OKAY for me to change my mind - as this was a choice for MY life, not to ultimately meander along with mounting ambivalence in an effort to please others.

Now, jump ahead with me almost 5 years and two children later...Mason will amazingly start Kindergarten in a couple of months and Chloe is 2 1/2 already! Time certainly flies! I am now in an Office Management position (with a Private Equity and Consulting Firm) that I love, as it encompasses all of the elements that allow me to thrive in a working environment. This means that the time I devote to my job feels right and well worth it, while still managing a household and raising two kids! The mental stimulation of varied projects, daily communication with highly networked and innovative executives, along with increased responsibility, keeps me motivated and I am certain that I made the correct decision to leave the teaching profession (at least for now).

Easter Smiles

2009-06-04T00:35:00.007-05:00

We did our best to snap a few shots on Easter Sunday. Here's the best of the bunch...

She loves her big brother! Look at the admiration in those eyes :)

Me directing from behind the camera, "Okay now, hug eachother - get closer - try to smile how you usually smile, back up just a little, etc."

My cute little Easter bunnies!

Memory Making

2009-06-03T23:40:00.024-05:00

Fresno Trip - April 2009

Mason & Chloe's very first time seeing/touching/playing in the snow! All of you Californians take it for granted - just move to Texas and see what happens without a mountain range less than 15 hrs away!

CAUGHT - red handed! Look at my little instigator pestering cousin Mackenzie. Shhhh, I couldn't leave her alone either though...those cheeks are entirely irresistible!

Grandma has sheep up at the Camarillo Farm! Mason, Tyler, and Leianna played their socks off together.

Thinking of the laughter that night....

Okay, Michelle - IF you were gonna pose like a COSMO cover girl, show me how you would do it, LOL!

Uncle Brandon is the best. Mason had NEVER been to the snow - much less (gulp) snowboarding. Cousin Tyler has been a bunch of times and absolutely loves it, so the three boys took off to Sierra Summit for an afternoon adventure on the slopes. Mason actually did surprisingly well for his first time out (unlike his mother - that's a story we won't even get into now). Nonetheless, Mason had a blast snowboarding with Tyler. Thanks again, Brandon!

Consensus is...I got the best shot with my camera! Grandma got everyone coordinating outfits and we ventured outside for a spring photo shoot with all of the six cousins together at last!

Top row from left: Tyler, Leianna, & Mason

Bottom row from left: Chloe, Daniel, & Mackenzie

We had such a great time up at the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad. This was our second trip up there - the day prior Mason heaved big-time in my mom's car on the ride up!

Fun at cousin Greg's house with Dad, Patti, sista's, nieces & nephews! The kids never can get enough of the quad rides (can't blame 'em).

Just Plane Fun

2009-05-11T19:17:00.006-05:00

Here it is - images capturing my desperate attempt to entertain 2 kids under five on a total of four flights! Suffice to say, this peaceful demeanor and quiet, cautious anticipation of an airline experience lasted maybe 20 minutes. Moments following that initial window of time are a total blur!

First Pro Cut

2009-03-24T23:23:00.008-05:00

I did it. I finally relinquished the cutting of Mason's hair. It went from a few quick snips to a much longer ordeal as he grew older, requiring significantly more skill and technique than I was adept at in this field. Considering he was in need of a trim and we were sans Chloe after our fairgrounds field trip date earlier in the day, we decided to inquire at a nearby walk-in salon.

They featured a little red airplane to contain fidgety child patrons and Mason seemed ready to take it for a flight. I hoisted him up and the snipping began. As descriptive as I was pertaining to the desired outcome, it still seemed as though much more hair was taken off than desired (I think I just really miss his sweet loose curls)! Daddy was quite surprised following our impulsive outing, although Chloe didn't even notice...can you believe that? :)

Homeward Bound

2009-03-21T23:54:00.012-05:00

Woo-hoo!!! I just booked a flight for CA in April and if it isn't entirely obvious, let me just attempt to convey how thrilled I am to see everyone very soon. Michelle and Melanie both have relatively new additions (of whom I've seen ONCE). Pictures are nice, but nothing can substitute for suckling on baby cheeks :) Wait! I was just jarred into the realization that this trip means I will be contending with two under 5 years of age while on this anticipatory trip. Since Rudy isn't able to take off for 9 days, I'll be the only adult to maneuver through this adventurous endeavor. Prayers, advice, & a travel nanny is thoroughly welcomed and would be greatly appreciated!

This is Mason eagerly awaiting to board. Love this one.

Guests Galore

2009-03-21T23:13:00.014-05:00

We accomodated eleven people for the evening a couple days ago...all relatives from Rudy's side who reside in central CA. His parents, brothers, aunt, our nephew & sister-in-law. Everything went well and the kids loved every second of their 4-day visit. It had been almost a year since we had seen them.

Oh brother!! Rudy here with his older bros (yes, he is the baby). Javier (middle) is the oldest & Leo (right) is the middle son.

Why do my kids look SO much alike here? Their expressions and everything are identical! Everyone always says it...but I didn't see it so distinctly until I saw this pic (by the way, Mason's non-matching attire was selected by him).

Mason & Chloe having fun with cousin Xavier

Stylist Separation Anxiety

2009-03-21T21:17:00.016-05:00

It is actually more than a temporary separation issue...this is a permanent dissolution of a wonderful 3-year relationship - with my hair stylist. Selection of such an individual is of the utmost importance for many ladies...right gals? You trust this person to professionally, precisely, and creatively handle your hair. I had the stylist who functioned in each of these aspects impeccably. To give you a bit of history...when we moved to Round Rock, I visited numerous salons and interviewed countless people to take charge of my hair cutting, snipping, high & low-lighting, blow-drying, and layering, as well as style counsel. After I finally extended the offer and went in for the first trial session, it was an instant connection (on my end, at least) as each element I was seeking in this experience was present. We got along ideally, she was flexible, and my hair always looked gorgeous when I exited the salon.

This fabulous relationship continued until last week, when I nonchalantly strolled up to the storefront to schedule an appointment and was absolutely blindsided as an obtrusive FOR LEASE sign screamed back at me. As if it were blatantly lying to my face, I forced myself to peer into the window for confirmation and there it was...empty. The salon was devoid of even a lone plant, brush, or a single bottle of shampoo. All was gone and I was left standing with a blank stare of bewilderment. Although this rant is slightly dramatic, I truly am bothered and can't believe my hair handler didn't even call prior to their abrupt business departure (I would have followed her anywhere)! Needless to say, the position is once again open and I will start the interview process immediately. The economy is in distress and so is my hair.

When Fatigue Overrules Comfort

2009-03-21T20:55:00.008-05:00

Mason and Rudy were hanging out waiting for me to get ready to leave for our connect group, while Chloe was finishing up her nap around 4pm Sunday afternoon. When I emerged after MAYBE 15min, the sound of snoring was quite surprising. Both of them were completely zonked out in the most interesting sleeping position.

Closet Monkey, Tub-Sicles, & Morning Stupor

2009-02-06T12:29:00.011-06:00

This is what I discovered after following the faint little voice calling me from inside Mason's closet. By the way, he really does own clothing...I just hang it all on the upper level rod because picking up and re-hanging piles of shirts that have been pulled off of hangers is not my idea of a good time.

Mason has been frequently requesting a 'treat' when he finishes dinner. Of course, Chloe must be presented with the same thing or else shrieking ensues. Since they needed a bath, I decided to combine it with dessert. Sticky popcicle drips weren't an issue at all and the kids thought it was the funniest thing.

Waking up is hard to do. Can't you tell the truth of this statement by looking at these somber faces?

Useful Website Resource

2009-02-01T12:40:00.007-06:00

I discovered this site after struggling once to upload an image onto Craigslist. I had never encountered an issue prior to that incident, so I was uncertain as to the cause. After searching help boards for close to an hour reading various potential reasons for my difficulty, someone mentioned my file size was probably too large and recommended this website for resizing photos. It is SO SIMPLE! You upload the image, select shrink percentage, blink your eyes 5 times, then save the re-sized picture to your computer. This particular website now even lets you crop the images as well!

http://www.resize2mail.com/index.php

Doggy Diet

2009-01-31T12:54:00.008-06:00

We've had Maya snce she was a puppy. I remember driving out to the Madera ranch residence where Rudy and I selected our first dog together (even though she was the only one left from the litter)! Those were the days prior to children.

She has been the sweetest, most docile animal ever, despite her husky, prominent appearance. My kids absolutely adore her, although, they frequently are disillusioned that she's a horse (hence the numerous attempts to climb onto her back and shout "giddy-up").

Well, she is now eight years old, and of course you know that in dog years, that's like 65. A few weeks ago we noticed she was whining in the mornings and seemed to have an upset stomach. So, being the good dog owners that we are, she took a ride to the vet. Everything looked good according to the doc, although he expressed significant concern about how overweight she was! Get this...she weighed in at 109 lbs, equivalent to a 400 pound human...ahhhh! That wasn't pleasant to hear. We knew she was big, but not THAT large!! So, we've been decreasing her food intake, giving her more running opportunities, and feeding her the 'lean' dog cuisine.

I went out today and noticed how much better she's looking! Her mid section has narrowed and she seems more energized. Plus, she hasn't been crying anymore and doesn't act like her stomach is bothering her - yeah! We want to keep her around as long as possible. She's the closest thing to a horse that we'll probably ever have, LOL! Love that dog!

This is a trail right outside of our neighborhood that we frequently walk, jog, and bike. Gorgeous during the spring and fall!

Dallas Zoo

2009-01-29T22:28:00.019-06:00

This little excursion was a few months ago, but thought I'd post some pics. The park is really expansive, covering 95 acres of land (largest in TX), and, of course, you know we walked the entire thing. Ha! Attractions consisted of an entire children's zoo area, Gorilla Conservation Research Center, Wilds of Africa exhibit, and a 20-minute monorail safari tour. Suffice to say, we were beat by the end of the afternoon!

The kids area was incredibly interactive and tons of fun. There was a little stream area to wade in the water, an underground mole-rat exhibit where you can burrow through tunnels alongside the critters, pony rides, and a bird landing area (something Rudy, Mason and Chloe enjoyed. I hated it, however, since birds are the animal species I am most fearful of). That stems back to a childhood incident, of course. I was at a friend's house when her pet bird got out of its cage and flew around in a frenzy...enough to cause birds to petrify me for life! Bring on the lions, tigers, and bears, but keep those birds away from me!!!

I highly encourage those of you who live in close proximity to visit if you haven't made a trip over there yet. Great weekend get-away!

http://www.dallaszoo.com/

Chloe Turns 2!

2009-01-26T23:23:00.057-06:00

It finally happened...my baby girl is officially a toddler now. I've tried to deny it, but with the onset of her second birthday, that claim is no longer one I am able to disprove.

Nonetheless, here are a few pics from her special day:

Opening up her awesome double stroller! Looks like Mason is havin' fun with it too!

Chloe is amused by her sweet friend Zoe

Is it just me, or do you think that expression should show a little more excitement, considering the cake right under her nose!?!

There's the smile I was looking for!

Sally (Hansen) Does it Again

2009-01-25T14:53:00.015-06:00

I kept seeing ads for this stuff and, despite my skepticism, purchased the dark pink shade. Get this, I was so anxious to try it out that I applied it in the car! Just clicked the pen to dispense the desired amount of color, and brushed on. Precise, clump-free, and it dried FAST. Love this product!

The Way They Play

2009-01-25T12:06:00.023-06:00

My son Mason typically plays in a destructive fashion. He can be witnessed diving off of furniture, ramming anything that has wheels into the wall, and intentionally crashing his bike. Chloe, on the other hand, loves pushing her babies in the stroller, pretending with puppets, and looking through books. As the oldest of three girls, that's the kind of play I was used to while growing up. Considering my mom and the three of us, my dad was well outnumbered! Interestingly enough, Rudy is one of four boys, so those were entirely different household dynamics.

My sisters and I always engaged in creative, yet calm activities for entertainment. Michelle just reminded me the other day of the elaborate library system I'd set up in my room for them to visit. You'd better believe they were not allowed to check ANYTHING out from my book collection unless they followed my library procedures. If something wasn't returned on time....well, let's just say privileges were indefinitely suspended.

One of the most popular attractions was the huge two-story playhouse my dad put up in our backyard; complete with a functional kitchen, porch light, balcony, and our very own flowerbed. We'd spend hours out there doing really important things. Have a look....

So there you have it. Play styles can vary drastically between boys and girls. I do enjoy the balance with having one of each, especially since I never experienced the mayhem with a brother. Cars, trains, and dinosaurs are just as much fun as Barbies, books, and makeup.

To Sleep or Not to Sleep?

2009-01-24T01:05:00.003-06:00

Here is Chloe's typical reaction at bedtime (although I was trying to get more out of her for entertainment purposes).

Make Me Laugh

2009-01-23T02:00:00.003-06:00

I absolutely appreciate humor and love the moments of genuine, hysterical laughter in life. Especially those sessions where you just can't stop, no matter how hard you attempt to cease.

I'll have you know that I was given the nickname "giggles" one year at Summer Camp due to my incessant outbursts, and I was even voted "Best Sense of Humor," earning me a photo with a male counterpart in one of my Jr. High yearbooks. I can recall numerous times with friends (one in particular), in school and at church, where we would get in these laugh-inducing comas, resulting in stern looks from teachers and inquisitive glances from our peers.

Little did I know that raising children would produce limitless opportunities to engage in such monumental laughter. My kids are SO funny and I love their off-the-wall antics. I remember when I was pregnant with Mason, I wrote in one of my pregnancy journal books that one of the traits I hoped he'd possess was a great sense of humor. I am so thankful that God gave me the children He did (even as strong-willed and wild as they are)!

The other night, Chloe was already sleeping and Mason was getting ready to go to bed. He had his pajamas on, teeth were brushed, and he was enjoying some quiet playtime in his room (without little sister knocking over his Dino-World creation). I heard him coming down the stairs a few minutes later, and noticed he had long dress pants on with a nice shirt. I asked him why he had changed out of his pajamas and he responded, "Mom, it's just too hard to get ready in the morning when I'm so tired and cozy, so I just put my clothes on for school tomorrow." He's only 4, but he's got some good ideas. Getting dressed in the morning can be a pain...maybe I should start doing it at night instead too, huh?

Blog Dreams & Facebook Warm-Up

2009-01-23T00:05:00.001-06:00

Yes, I've finally begun my journey into the vast blogosphere! I regret not starting long ago, however, the delay was not due to my lack of motivation on this involved project, but rather my confusion on where to even start, considering all the numerous sites and available options! Lack of personal time has been another factor, as I entertain my bright, loving, hilarious 2 and 4-yr-old (Mason & Chloe) during the day, and did I mention that they don't sleep at night? Nonetheless, I have had the best intentions for a substantial amount of time, even experiencing significant 'blog envy' while viewing the creative, witty, and entertaining sites of others who do such an incredible job of documenting aspects of their lives for all to view and enjoy.

I'd like to credit Facebook for getting me half of the way here. Following numerous email inbox pings to view friends' profiles, I finally realized it would be a good idea to create one for myself...so I did...and I love Facebook now, okay!?! As great as it is, however, the formatting doesn't exactly allow for formal, frequent, or lengthy journal entries, so I knew I had to take my online social quest a step further. I also knew it would be gratifying to write and share various events, family notes, random thoughts, useful tips, etc. in this type of forum (mostly random thoughts) ha! All of that having been said, I'm so glad to be here, blogging with the best of you!!