The White Family

Taking one day at a time...

2012-01-27T19:10:00.000-08:00

Love is not love
Which alters when it alteration finds,
Or bends with the remover to remove:
O no! it is an ever-fixed mark
That looks on tempests and is never shaken;

-- William Shakespeare

Doug spent the last week in the field, and of the past 60 hours he slept exactly 3½. Sometimes I find myself wondering what motivates him to not only bear but love being a Marine Officer.

Needless to say that this is not an easy road to take, but I cannot but notice that he is the happiest I have ever seeing. The realization of that is what motives me to endure the struggles we too have to face while he is away, and love is what keeps us strong.

❤

Angela

Happy 4th Birthday Micah!

2012-01-24T12:49:00.000-08:00

Four years ago I witnessed one of the most miraculous days of my live, one that would not only change my future, but give it infinite possibilities to be extraordinary. Thank you birthday boy for becoming the very essence of my being! Though I can’t begin to describe how much I love you, I can promise you one thing: my love for you is ‘forever and eternal’. Happy b-day sweet heart!

❤

Angela

HELP!!!

2011-12-12T11:52:00.000-08:00

I have no idea why my pictures have been substituted by these exclamation points... If anyone out there knows why this is and how I can fix it, would you please be so kind as to let me know!? Thanks!

XOXO,
Angela

{Second} First Day of Preschool!!!

2011-09-06T06:31:00.000-07:00

This is such anexciting day for us! Micah had been wanting to go back to school since we leftProvo in April, but with our trip to Brazil, followed by a wonderful Summerbreak, he had to wait just a bit longer than what he expected.

We had to wake himup earlier (we had to take Doug to work), but Micah was a trooper and when toldit was time to get ready for school he didn't hesitate to get out of bed - Iremember when I was that excited about school (I used to wake up at 5am whenschool didn't start until 8am).

He sat in his carseat for at least 45 minutes (traffic was bad), before we were back from takingDoug to work and ready for the School Bus. During the whole time he waslaughing, singing, talking, JUST SO EXCITED!

When we finally madeit to the Bus Stop, Micah was thrilled to see so many kids waiting for theirBuses (plus, he was excited that there was a light rain, which meant he got touse his umbrella!). We saw 3 buses come by before Micah’s showed up, whichincreased his expectations.

It was finallyhere! Micah was just so eager that he gave me a quick kiss and into the Bus hewent! I am so glad that Virginia actually has all kids buckle up for the Busride. I watched as he got buckled up, he looked at me with a BIG, SHINY SMILE… blew me a kiss, said “I love you”, and waved good bye. Bitter-sweet…

I am so in lovewith my little one – who loves going to Preschool!!!

❤

Angela

Casa Arrumada - Carlos Drummond de Andrade (1902-1987)

2011-08-31T12:00:00.000-07:00

"A cada dia que vivo, mais me convenço de que o desperdício da vida está no amor que não damos, nas forças que não usamos, na prudência egoísta que nada arrisca e que, esquivando-nos do sofrimento, perdemos também a felicidade."

Casa arrumada é assim:
Um lugar organizado, limpo, com espaço livre pra circulação e uma boa entrada de luz.
Mas casa, pra mim, tem que ser casa e não um centro cirúrgico, um cenário de novela.
Tem gente que gasta muito tempo limpando, esterilizando, ajeitando os móveis, afofando as almofadas...
Não, eu prefiro viver numa casa onde eu bato o olho e percebo logo: Aqui tem vida...
Casa com vida, pra mim, é aquela em que os livros saem das prateleiras e os enfeites brincam de trocar de lugar.
Casa com vida tem fogão gasto pelo uso, pelo abuso das refeições fartas, que chamam todo mundo pra mesa da cozinha.
Sofá sem mancha?
Tapete sem fio puxado?
Mesa sem marca de copo?
Tá na cara que é casa sem festa.
E se o piso não tem arranhão, é porque ali ninguém dança.
Casa com vida, pra mim, tem banheiro com vapor perfumado no meio da tarde.
Tem gaveta de entulho, daquelas que a gente guarda barbante,
passaporte e vela de aniversário, tudo junto...
Casa com vida é aquela em que a gente entra e se sente bem-vinda.
A que está sempre pronta pros amigos, filhos...
Netos, pros vizinhos...
E nos quartos, se possível, tem lençóis revirados por gente que brinca ou namora a qualquer hora do dia. Casa com vida é aquela que a gente arruma pra ficar com a cara da gente.

Arrume a sua casa todos os dias...
Mas arrume de um jeito que lhe sobre tempo pra viver nela...
E reconhecer nela o seu lugar.

"A VIDA é uma pedra de amolar; desgasta-nos ou afia-nos, conforme o metal de que somos feitos."
(George Bernard Shaw) 1856-1950

PS: Não somente um bom texto, uma lição de vida!

❤

Angela

The problem with public housing...

2011-08-01T19:45:00.000-07:00

The problem with public housing is that the residents are not the owners. The people that live in the house did not earn the house, but were loaned the property from the true owners, the taxpayers.

Because of this, the residents do not have the "pride of ownership" that comes with the hard work necessary. In fact, the opposite happens and the residents resent their benefactors because the very house is a constant reminder that they themselves did not earn the right to live in the house.

They do not appreciate the value of the property and see no need to maintain or respect it in any way. The result is the same whether you are talking about a studio apartment or a magnificent mansion full of priceless antiques.

If the people who live there do not feel they earned the privilege they will make this known through their actions.

The picture below illustrate the point:

The Resolute Desk was built from the timbers of the HMS Resolute and was a gift from Queen Victoria to President Rutherford B. Hayes.

It is considered a national treasure and an icon of the presidency. With all due respect, get your feet off our desk.

PS: I got this on an e-mail and just couldn't not share it.

For ordinary people with extraordinary dreams.

2011-07-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

A few days ago I received this extraordinary video commercial. I must admit, it truly is phenomenal. I’ve watched it any number of times, and have passed it on to a number of people.

The following television commercial made by Ogilvy & Mather Taiwan for TC Bank is based on a real story, that of 5 Taiwanese men, with an average age of 81 who, to honor a dear friend, decide to travel across their island. They travel from the north to the south, 708 miles, 13 days for one simple reason: DREAMS!

To the makers of this beautiful commercial, congratulations on telling a wonderful story, touching in so many ways in such a brief period of time, and with such a lasting impact!

Oh! How I love my little boy!

2011-07-18T10:54:00.000-07:00

‎"A child is a being lent to us as an intensive course in how to love someone other than ourselves, changing our worst faults to give the best examples and learn to be brave. That's right! Being a parent is the greatest act of courage that one can have, because it is being exposed to all kinds of pain, especially the uncertainty of acting correctly and the fear of losing something so dear." Jose Saramago

A Successful First Day of School!

2011-01-24T21:37:00.000-08:00

Micah is turning 3 today, yay! Besides it being his birthday, he also started school today, what a busy kid, don't you think? To be honest, I wasn't too concerned about taking him to school since he has always been very sociable, but I wondered how I would feel leaving him there...truth is, it was pretty easy! I guess it has to do with his excitement in going to school.

Last week, Doug, Micah and I met with all the people that will be working with Micah and they all seemed so sharp, but we are particularly impressed with Miss Jamie, Micah's teacher. She seems to really care about each child and Micah seems to just connect with her. She is very patient and determined... anyway, 2 thumbs up to her. She has a Masters Degree in child education from the University of Utah. It's not BYU, but is definitely a very respectful school. =)

It was a pretty cold walk to school. Doug had a meeting at the Marines' office in SLC, so Micah and I just walked... luckily we live pretty close. Two things I want to remember:

I told Micah that Buzz was in school, which made him even more excited to go himself =)
When I asked him (just before leaving), where we were going, he said: "high school" - whaaaaaaaat? Hold your horses Micah!

Micah was ok with me taking pictures before class started... he's used to his "mãe coruja"

It was a beautiful day, except for the bitting wind

Even though it was pretty cold, Micah still modeled for me =)

Micah could no longer contain his excitement to go to school and he shouted: "LET'S GO!"

(film to be uploaded)

The first few minutes of class - Go Baby Go!

Can't wait to pick him up and start the birthday celebration =)

---Halloween---

2010-10-31T18:54:00.000-07:00

Micah chose his costume about 2 months ago, and we just had to get creative and match him somehow. We looked everywhere for costumes of Woody and Jessie, with no luck. Here is us and the best we could do in 3 hours.

Buzz, Woody, and Jessie

Best friends!

Me, a cowgirl? It's gotta be Halloween!

Buzz to star command, come in star command!

Each room had a volunteer, this was the coolest toddler's Halloween ever!

This was his first door, he wasn't very sure of what was going on, but he was such a good sport!

Woody helping Buzz in one of his missions

"Tick'o teet"

If you insist...

Micah and his best friend, Alexis (of course they both wanted to be Buzz)

Pumpkin bowling

Gone fishing

Micah accidentally spilled some Coke on the sofa, and this is his way of saying "I sorry mommy"

Are you seriously laughing at me?

We're still alive!

2010-10-31T18:22:00.000-07:00

Eighteen credits! That's my excuse for not posting as often this semester... but I will be done in April, and that makes it all worth it! =)

Anyway, here is what Micah has been up to these days:

So grown up!

Enjoying Grandpa's company since I hardly get to see him these days...

I even got to see my cousin Drew... we would be best friends if we lived just a little closer

Micah doing his "homework" - just like mommy!

NO PICTURES! A little busy now...

This is Micah, after watching Iron Man 2

Meet Baby Raccoon!

2010-09-12T11:34:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy these last weeks that blogging hasn't left my "wish list" - hopefully I will be able to catch up sometime. I will start at the Latin American Fair we went to a week ago, I wasn't expecting it to be as fun as it turned out to be!

Rubia and Spencer invited us to go and after hesitating a bit I said "yes" (that cost me being up to date in my school work), definitely worth it!

Mom and Rubia - que gatinhas!

Both Micah and Spencer enjoyed their ride in the train, but I didn't see as much excitement as I expected. Perhaps they were puzzled (as we were) that this train was actually moved by a lady's muscles.

Very interesting!

The funnest part of this activity was to find a friend I haven't seen in over a year! I met Carrie in a swimming class at BYU - she was the teacher. We became friends and due to our schedules being crazy in their own different ways we lost track of each other. It was a blast to see her again and catch up. She had an adorable baby raccoon with her (that was the highlight of the fair). I guess it's mom got killed and Carrie's sister bottle fed it for a while and now, Carrie is taking care of it. She was nice enough to let everyone interested hold it and take pictures with it. This baby raccoon was a cutie, all it wanted to do was to snuggle and chew on our fingers - ADORABLE!

My mom fell in love with it!

So cute!

The only sad thing is that Carrie thinks this baby has to get killed when it becomes an adult, due to the fact that it becomes quite aggressive - would you, dear reader, know anything about it?

XOXO!

Gabe Adams - an inspiring sight!

2010-07-24T16:47:00.000-07:00

I have never been so disappointed at a mother before - I can't imagine a mom abandoning her baby at the hospital, just because he is a little different. But who am I to judge her... maybe she had absolutely no way of taking care of this baby. Regardless, Gabe is the sweetest little boy EVER and I am oh, so very proud of him! Born without arms or legs, he manages to do everything by himself, with a smile on his face! Some people just can't help but to make you proud =)

Thank you for your example Gabe, "with a smile" =)

Such a good husband!

2010-07-22T15:34:00.002-07:00

I often feel like I am out of the loop! With the busy life of a mom who works and goes to school, I find it difficult to keep up with all that is going on around me. Thankfully, I have a husband who is "news" addicted and will keep me posted.

Here is what I just learned about:
An online ad for BYU's Library got 1 million hits in just one week! Besides being aired on CNN - Crazy! I guess it's based on an Old Spice commercial... (both worth watching!)

How did I never see this before? Can I please have the horse?

Why did this have to be so brilliant? If all those watching this actually end up going to the library, where am I supposed to go? =)

If you enjoyed this, you might also be interested in the "Humor U - BYU Stand-up Comedy" - these guys are hilarious and the jokes are CLEAN! Click HERE to be directed to their official YouTube channel.

Priscilla Ahn - Dream (Official Video)

2010-07-22T15:14:00.000-07:00

I have listened to this song a million times today... and am still absorbed by it.

Heartwarming Story

2010-07-18T22:08:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to introduce you to a life changing story of love, strength, hardship, and above all HOPE!

KSL introduced Matthew in July 2008: http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=148&sid=3717779

Meet the Steed Family, who I am HONORED to call friends: http://samuelandashley.blogspot.com/

This video could change your life!

2010-07-16T14:07:00.000-07:00

ENGLISH

If you have 3:44 minutes to spare, I encourage you to watch this wonderful message that will help you realize who you really are. Regardless of your background, religion or belief - this is for you =)

If you feel that you do not have 3:44 minutes to spare, I beg you to make it happen - it is worth it!

I was immensely touched by it's sweetness. I couldn't help but to tear up...

PORTUGUÊS

Se você tem 3:44 minutos disponíveis, eu lhes convido a assistir esta mensagem maravilhosa que poderá ajudá-lo(a) a compreender melhor quem realmente é. Independente de sua religião ou crença - esta mensagem é para você =)

Caso pense que não tenha 3:44 minutos, eu insisto para que o faça acontecer - vale a pena!

* Obrigada Rafael Sussi Andrade por ter encontrado esta mensagem com a legenda em Português =)

It had to be Micah...

2010-07-15T23:43:00.000-07:00

Micah is such a people's person and a joy to be around. He certainly makes me laugh like crazy all day long! I am not 100% confident in my ability to comment on funny episodes in a way that you, the reader, will be able to enjoy and perhaps, laugh - but I promise I'll do my best!

Episode 1

Doug and Micah were in their swimming suits enjoying a swim in the... bathtub. Yeah, our tub is regular sized, and Doug alone, with his 6'4", has a hard time 'fitting in'. Nevertheless, they were both loving it (I was in the kitchen doing dishes - fair?). Doug was blowing bubbles while Micah popped them! They were both laughing hysterically.

Suddenly I hear an "ouch!" - it sounded like a painful one and it was followed by a complete moment of silence... I was worried for a second and without being able to imagine what had happened, I ran to the restroom to find Doug making an awfully painful face.

"Are you ok?" I asked.

With a little tear running down his face (he swears it was just water), and both hands at the same place soccer players have them while forming a "wall" before a free kick - he answered:

"Yeahhh..." (I could hear 'pain' behind his 'yeah', weird?)

"What happened?" I asked.

With a face only Doug can make he answered:

"Bubbles... Micah popped a bubble."

Episode 2

When I was pregnant with Micah, after going through several months of terrible-morning sickness, I would gladly change any meals for ice cream! I honestly would have it for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Well, my little "apple" didn't fall very far from the tree. He will ask for ice cream day and night! Thus, we have decided not to buy it, but to take him to the mall once a week to have his most desired treat.

This is usually what happens at Cold Stone: we'll get there and I will have a "like it" chocolate flavor with nuts mixed in and, of course, have it in their delicious waffle cone. While I sit down with Micah, Doug will usually get his Cake Batter with some kind of chocolate bar mixed in. Micah will be eating with me, until he sees Doug coming. When he sees daddy, he jumps into his lap and eats all he can from his "love it" size!

Last time we went, the funniest thing happened... While sitting on Doug's lap, Micah would take to his mouth spoons full, so full that some would always drop on Doug's hand. Patiently, but consistently, Doug said: "Be careful Micah."

I am not really sure how this happened, but while Doug brought the spoon to his mouth, a tiny bit of ice cream fell on Micah's arm. His first reaction was "ouch," then looked at his arm and without hesitation, looked up to daddy, pointed his tiny finger and said: "be careful!"

I almost peed my pants...

Notice that he has a chocolate mustache while eating a cake batter ice cream =)

Nascida de bons pais!

2010-07-13T21:16:00.000-07:00

Espero que vocês saibam o quanto significam para mim, eu os amo e gostaria que soubessem disso! Encontrei esta música que, obviamente, me fez pensar em vocês. Ficamos aqui com muitas saudades e com esperanças de poder reencontrá-los brevemente.

Pai, Mãe

(Michel Teló)

Pai, Mãe
Razões da minha vida, minha força, minha inspiração
Luz no meu caminho que me guia e me dá direção
Abraço que ampara e acalma o meu coração

Pai, Mãe
Quantas vezes nos momentos de bobeira e desilusão
Não ouvi os seus conselhos e com isso eu me vi sem chão
Todo mundo dando as costas e vocês me estendendo a mão

Pai, Mãe
Queria lhes dizer o que eu sinto aqui dentro de mim
Sentimento puro e verdadeiro de um amor sem fim
Resumindo, Pai e Mãe te amo e vai ser sempre assim

Pai, Mãe
Vocês são as batidas do meu coração
A letra, a melodia da minha canção
A força que alimenta a minha inspiração

Pai, Mãe
Com vocês eu já sorri e chorei de emoção
Aprendi que é perdoando que se tem perdão
Por amor é que eu faço essa declaração

Barbecue at the Park

2010-07-08T16:14:00.000-07:00

Rubia organized this at the last minute and it turned out great! Thank you for inviting us =) We all had a blast relaxing, eating, and playing. The only issue was Micah wanting to swim in the fountain...

As I was getting things ready for the barbecue, Micah found a place to hide - cute!?

He had so much fun!

Micah was so excited when Spencer arrived!

Guess what Micah is doing? Not posing for a picture, but taking his shoe off believing it was time to swim - my little water boy!

Where is Micah?

Spider-Monkey!

Gotta love daddy!

He had so MUCH fun =)

I couldn't believe these two! There was another kid there saying it was too difficult and that they shouldn't do it... Did Micah listen to the kid?

If I only get one step up, and another, and another...

Perhaps I will need a hand here and there...

But nothing compares to the joy of accomplishing it!

I DID IT!

After an afternoon full of adventures, feeding the ducks is so much fun!

I wish I could have special powers to know what he was thinking during those thoughtful moments...

Eva was such a good player! She is a bit older than both kids, but she was super nice to them =)

Note: where is Micah learning these moves?

After so much fun at the park, riding to the car is the way to go!

Thank you for bringing the kids Celeste!

This is Spencer and Eva's mom!

Again, thanks for organizing it Rubia!

Stadium of Fire - 2010

2010-07-08T14:55:00.000-07:00

Firstly, I had to learn a lesson... in the hard way! After attending Michelli's wedding, I just had to run home to my computer to check the pictures I had taken... they are gorgeous! The problem is that I left the SD card in the computer and without realizing it, Doug packed up the camera as we went to the Stadium of fire. Needless to say, I was so disappointed!

“The 5 Browns opened the warm up acts. They are a famous family of five piano playing siblings that all went to Juilliard. They range in age from 30 to 22. They were awesome.

Then a violinist named Jenny Oaks Baker (daughter of Dallin H. Oaks) performed with four other female violinists. I didn't know her name before but she is a quite accomplished violinist. These ladies were amazing (see video).

The Osmonds Second Generation performed and like their fathers, they are very talented.

Then finally Carrie Underwood took the stage. She was fantastic! I specially LOVE her interpretation of the national anthem! In this video, you can also enjoy the show =)

In this video, you can also see the Air Force Jet Flyover, this is always so exciting to watch! Definitely one of my favorite parts =)

(Photo by Salt Lake Tribune - link)

(Photo by Bringham Family - link)

After Carrie Underwood finished up, the fireworks began - Unbelievable show!”

Halfway through the show, Doug and I realized that something happened in the seats just ahead of us, but it was dark and we couldn’t tell… we just knew that something happened to the fireworks that it had launched on the people, instead of the sky. We couldn’t tell if someone was hurt, but here you have a detailed explanation of what really happened by the Spiker Family - click here to check their post.

“About halfway thru we realized a tower right next to us was a firework launch pad. Up until then I just thought it was for camera equipment. The first explosion from that tower scared the heck out of us and I turned to Steve and said “Well now we know why they made the announcement 'it may become necessary to evacuate the stadium' at the beginning of the evening. I was half joking... but little did I know what was about to unfold.

A few minutes later that same tower shot another firework that was again supposed to shoot skyward but it didn't. It shot right into the 5 Brown siblings seated right near us. People scrambled and panicked and tried to grab kids but then there was another explosion and this time the fireworks shot into the Osmond clan and the violinists. By now people were screaming and running and grabbing babies. The violinist in the pretty blue dress laid on top of her baby and the back of her dress caught fire. Steve ran over and smothered it with his hands. I made eye contact with her and I don't think she even knew she was on fire yet. She just had an expression like "Can you believe this is happening???" But not like "Holy cow I am on fire!"At that moment another violinist with a long white skirt ran past me. Her skirt was on fire and I was yelling at her to stop and roll but she was frantic and trying to stomp the flames. She finally grabbed her skirt and yanked it off. Luckily she had a slip on.

There was a cute couple that had been sitting in front of us throughout the entire show but had moved to lay on the grass during the fireworks and the young man had his hair catch fire and was burned on the back of his neck. This all took place in literally 60 seconds. The fireworks were still going on and Courtney was panicked that more might be coming our way so we hightailed it. We didn't want the baby mama going into early labor! Needless to say it was a little terrifying. Our good friend Scott Jackson stayed behind till the EMT's got there. He said that besides the young man with the burnt neck, it was mostly clothing that burned and none of those many toddlers and babies were hurt!

Since we didn't get any pictures at the Stadium of Fire, I convinced Micah and Doug to take one at home... it's not the same, but it's something! Why are boys so against pictures? ;)

I LOVE my little family!

Video Summary:

Beauty, Love, Laugh... Eternal Happiness!

2010-07-08T12:08:00.000-07:00

I met Michelli two semesters ago, we were both doing Zumba classes with Shannon (link) - she was about to get engaged then, and couldn't wait for it to happen! Details on their love story here.

On the 2nd of June, I was honored to commemorate with her and Mitch the beginning of an eternal life of happiness. Here are a few pictures of their special day!

Absolutely Gorgeous! I just couldn't stop taking pictures of her and her handsome Groom =)

HOT Momma!

When I first saw her, I thought she was Michelli's sister...

What is the secret of so much beauty!?

Adorable Sister!

She runs away from the camera, but my lenses couldn't stop focusing on her - wow!

In this picture, she was bringing Michelli's and Mitch's ring to the altar, where they had a ring exchange, Brazilian style!

I just can't tell who she got her looks from...

Here is proud Daddy waking the isle with his beautiful daughter =)

Aren't they just "perfect" for each other!?

After Mitch put the ring on Michelli's finger, he gave it a kiss...

This was so touching! So much was said with absolutely zero words!

Same here... so adorable these two!

Group picture!

(Right to left)

Beca Souza, Me, Michelli & Mitch, and Rubia Fagundes

My beautiful friends Rubia and Beca!

Adoro vc!

I love this picture of Bruno & Joice Barreto, I also love the natural light revealing the most precious baby they are expecting!

They had these hearts hanging under a tree... what an adorable touch!

I just couldn't help but to play with it,

Gotta love the outcome!

Mi & Mitch,

May you always recognize that certain something in each other that first made your hearts flutter as you realized this could be the one.

May your promise to love be fulfilled in the everyday details of a morning kiss, a loving smile, and the simple pleasure of just being together.

May you one day discover that all the dreams you had on your wedding day pale in comparison to the wonderful life you have created together.

World Cup 2010 - Brazil vs. Netherlands (1-2)

2010-07-02T15:03:00.000-07:00

Never Give Up

My heart is broken into pieces and it won't be healed until 2014 - I think it hurts more than it did in 2006, when Brazil lost to France, because I had high hopes for Brazil this year.

I saw a united and focused team, I felt the connection between the players, I saw their hearts rejoice with each victory and I saw a lot of "good" confidence. The Brazilian National All-Star team made mistakes, but they also did all they could until the last second... they never gave up - this, my friends, is what it means to be a Brazilian.

We are a nation with a history that we are not proud of, our political leaders are definitely not as honest as one would expect and until today, most Brazilians are still fighting to bring rice and beans to their tables and a roof to cover their heads. There is a lot of crime, a lot of racism, children are starving, men and women living on the streets, high levels of unemployment, selfishness... but there is one thing that unite us all, and that is soccer! It's a unifying agent and for that reason we will never give up.

Soccer prompts a wave of national jubilation and the boys that make our dreams come true deserve our respect. Brazil is still the most respected team and not even Netherlands can change what has been earned with a lot of work and dedication. If Brazilians had given up the first few times the doors were slapped onto their faces, we would still be living the "law of the free womb."

Dear Júlio César, Doni, Maicon, Daniel Alves, Gilberto, Michel Bastos, Juan, Lúcio, Luisão, Thiago Silva, Gilberto Silva, Josué, Felipe Melo, Lucas, Kaká, Ramires, Elano, Julio Baptista, Kleberson, Robinho, Adriano, Nilmar, Luiz Fabiano and, of course, Dunga... thank you fellow citizen, for what you have done.

Just keep trying!
The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step! =)

I have come to look upon trials as strengthening opportunities. We can choose whether to be weak or strong... I have made my choice, have you made yours?

Surprise!

2010-07-02T00:48:00.000-07:00

I got to admit, I have the most amazing husband ever! Last week we commemorated our 4th anniversary and we had a great time (see post), but that wasn't all. Doug had something else in mind, and you are about to find out what!

He took advantage of his days off work (Mon and Tue) and planned something very special! On Monday, after watching the game (see post), Doug said he had tickets for a show (and that is all he would say). He had arranged it for his parents to come up and watch Micah. We left Provo toward SLC and I was surprised to find out what he had planed. We arrived at the Anniversary Inn - what a charming place! I was surprised by how detailed he was at preparing all of this. He made sure to prepare my luggage with all the things I always have with me when we leave home. I couldn't believe to see that he remembered everything!

(Photo by Anniversary Inn)

We stayed at the Romeo's Retreat - a suite with a Renaissance feel with columns looking out over the veranda across the courtyard - it's definitively a cozy retreat in true Romeo style!

As I entered the room, the first thing I saw was the trail of rose pedals leading to the rose sitting on the bed, waiting for me =) - It was so charming!

Four years together, and counting...

We sat and relaxed a bit while enjoying the most delicious apple cider. I was really impressed by it so, if you are planning something special, look for this brand! Doug had also made sure we had chocolate covered strawberries to go with it... honey, do I need to say anything about it?

Just perfect!

One of the things Doug loves the most about hotels is the Jacuzzi bath, he will always make sure our rooms have one! Nothing says romance like a warm bubble bath for two, dimmed lights, flame free candles! This is one of our favorite ways to de-stress and rejuvenate our relationship.

We got to watch the two first movies of the Twilight Saga, in preparation for part three! Yep, our stay at the Inn wasn't enough, just yet! If you thought he was lying when he said he'd gotten us tickets for a show... SURPRISE! On Thursday, we went to the Megaplex 8 at Thanksgiving Point to enjoy Eclipse. He chose this theater for it's pristine image and uncompressed digital sound - what a great experience!

I know he doesn't care much about the Twilight Saga, but he knows I do and that suffices!

For the husbands out there, remember the things you did when you were dating, and remember that marriage is not a noun; it's a verb! It isn't something you get, but something you do! I have heard that what counts in making a happy marriage is not so much how compatible you are, but how you deal with incompatibility. Thank you Doug for being who you are!

I really enjoyed the movie! I can't wait for the next one, does anyone know when it's coming out? Until then, I will make sure to watch Eclipse a few more times. Gotta love some of the beautiful details =)

If you haven't seen the movie yet, watch this trailer... I like it because it contains some of my favorite parts / quotes in it.

With the pressures and speed of daily life, it's quite easy to forget that our marriages need to be nurtured. It doesn't need much, just a loving glance here, and an affectionate touch there... nevertheless, that small amount of nurturing will keep the love blooming and full of life!

Thanks for the wonderful surprise Doug, I love you!

World Cup 2010 - Brazil vs. Chile (3-0)

2010-07-01T23:04:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful game! Chile played very well in the first 4 minutes! It really seemed like they were about to put into play the attack formation they presented on paper, great 4 minutes for Chile! After these scary four minutes, Brazil sort of woke up and started to attack. They were very patient and took advantage of every space Chile gave them. Lots of counter-attacks and 3 beautiful goals to tell the story!

I did see a lot of mistakes though, and it worries me a bit as we go on to play the Netherlands - nevertheless, I saw a lot of wonderful plays and hope to see it again soon! Thank you for giving me so much joy Brazil!!!

The final score was 3 - 0, way to go!

(Photo Courtesy of Chris Souza)

I am very impressed as to how many people actually come to watch the games at BYU - thank you Brazilian Association for putting this together!

(Photo Courtesy of Chris Souza)

L-O-V-E this picture! Here Marcel and Duda are "exploding with happiness!" - as you look at the background, you can also see others cheering as Brazil made us proud!

(Photo Courtesy of Chris Souza)

Left to Right - Marcel, Duda, Chris, Me, Bidinha

This family rocks!

(Photo by FIFA)

I was so glad to see such a breakthrough in this game =)

(Photo by FIFA)

Thank you Juan, Luiz Fabiano and Robinho for the goals!!!

(Courtesy of Dan Almeida -BYU Brazilian Association)

"We’ve now got yet another difficult game ahead against the Netherlands, who are a side that have continued their tradition of producing good players with technical ability."

- Dunga, Brazil coach

Happily Ever After!

2010-06-26T22:49:00.000-07:00

I met Devin Thayne in Des Moines, IA on October 2003 - we were both serving a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I have the best memories of Devin and won't ever forget the support he gave me during the times of need. He's so caring and loving, one of a kind! One of my favorite Devin phrases is: "that's absurd!"

Today I was honored to commemorate with Devin and Stephanie, as they tied the knot! It was so special to see them dressed in white and exchanging looks and smiles... one would have to be blind not to see how much they love each other, it makes my heart melt!

I am so proud of you dearest friend!

This is so unreal, look at these two...

It's a fierce competition on who is the hottest!

I LOVE this picture!

Mischievous Micah =)

This kid, I just can't help but to love him unconditionally!

Devin and Steph, may your lives be filled with joy as you start on this path of happiness - this is a start of togetherness, of walks in the rain, basking in the sunshine, shared meals, caring for one another and sensing the love that marriage carries. May you treasure in your hearts what you felt as you looked at each other across the altar... We love you!"

World Cup 2010 - Brazil vs. Portugal (0-0)

2010-06-26T01:51:00.000-07:00

We woke up pretty early today (June 25th) since the game started at 8am and we wanted to watch it at BYU - Micah wasn't very excited about it at first, but a few minutes after arriving there, he was fine. Doug left home earlier to save us good seats - thanks Doug! I also wanted to thank those in charge of the BYU Brazilian Association, who have done a wonderful job at organizing a place for us to watch the games (in PORTUGUESE!!!)

I must say this wasn't the most exciting game I have seen Brazil play. Both teams were already advancing, so the game was really just a formality and I truly felt like they weren't playing seriously. Anyway, I am still happy we didn't loose, but nothing compares with winning!

Here is Micah, still in his PJ's but proud of his Brazilian Jersey!

It's been fun for our family to support each other as Brazil and the US play in the World Cup - I just don't want to think about the possibility of us having to play each other, I wonder whose side Micah would be on...

So proud!

I was so glad Duda (Marcel Souza's wife) was there! She's a doll and I am always very excited to have her around.

Our Anniversary!

2010-06-26T01:34:00.000-07:00

Doug and I celebrated our 4th anniversary on the 24th of June. I will never forget that beautiful morning we got married in the Manti Temple. Doug looked so perfect, I just couldn't believe how lucky I was... Well, four years have passed and I still feel lucky to have married him! I often reflect on how much he means to me and all that he has done for me in these past years. Every time I think of him, I'm continually more grateful that we found each other. He's always making me want to be a better person, and I love him so much.

It's impossible not to see how much love we have for each other... At this point in time, we were just dating =)

A family member took this picture, I love it! Our wedding day was so special...

This year we decided to go try something new so we went to PF Chang's - it was nice and we all had quite a bit of fun! Here are a few pics of the occasion:

Doug ordered duck

I took it easy with veggies, chicken, and shrimp

He never really let's me take pictures of him, so this was a lucky one!

I was there, I promise! Too bad we didn't get a picture together!

Micah loved the horse; or should I say: dragon, Doug? ;)

I am so lucky to have these two in my life!

Fun!?

Of course Bullseye had to be in the picture! Side note, isn't Micah absolutely A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E?

Doug has written me poems since year one. He will read them to me on our anniversary day but I can't have a copy of the poems. If I want to hear it again, I have to ask him to read it to me. Little does he know that this is the absolutely best and most expected time of the day for me. He is such a charm! And his poems are so... PERFECT!

And this is just the beginning of an eternity together!

The MTC's Senior Training team!

2010-06-23T21:59:00.000-07:00

Monday, June 21, was Burke Anderson's last day at the MTC Senior Training. I have enjoyed working with him! If you ever meet Burke, you will quickly learn that he is the type that will always bring peace with him wherever he goes. He is always ready to make great comments and to help all those around him. I wanted to thank Burke for all the help he gave me during the time we worked together, he was always ready to cover my shifts whenever I needed help.

I am so lucky to work with such wonderful people! Maria Johnson is our Coordinator and she has taught me so much over the past few years. Rodrigo Villordo is from Mexico and is also a wonderful person to work with - one of the funniest things I have ever heard Rodrigo say is something like: "we can't pretend we can eat a whole elephant all at once". Marcel Souza is from Brazil and my relationship with the Souzas comes from a while ago, when I first met Marcel's brother, Michel. These are the people I have been working closely with over the past year, at least. Thank you friends, for your example of love and professionalism!

Not to be forgotten, we have our wonderful secretaries: Rebeca Souza and Courtney Schramm - these girls ROCK MY WORLD! They are so responsible and I don't want to think of what life at the office would be like without them around.

Last but not least, I want to welcome the newest member of our team, Sherstin Pearse. She served in the Curitiba Brazil Mission and has so much potential! I am very excited to work closely with her during the upcoming months.

The "last supper" =)

We met at the MTC's cafeteria to have dinner together in honor of our great friend Burke. Burke and his wife moved to Appleton, WI and we want to wish them the very best life can offer as they start a new chapter in their lives. From right to left: Marcel, Rodrigo, "little" Burke, Maria, and... who's that again?

Here is beautiful Rebeca, what else can I say besides "PERFECTLY ADORABLE"?

Meet Courtney!

Check out the beautiful pictures taken by Melissa Niu at http://melissaniu.com/

I owe you a picture of Sherstin... soon to come!

She is here!

2010-06-21T01:20:00.000-07:00

She made it! Alice is from Brazil and married Tom, Doug's cousin. They got married over a year ago and have been trying to get her visa for about ONE YEAR! Finally, they arrived on Friday, June 18th.

WELCOME ALICE!

Her shirt is very appropriate, she is definitely a doll! May your lives be filled with joy!

The men we love... (dad)

2010-06-21T01:07:00.000-07:00

I have always been so impressed at how wonderful Doug is, both as a husband and as a father. He loves his little "Goober" so much and will do anything to see him happy. He is the one Micah goes after if he wants to have adrenaline-filled fun! I just love watching them play because they play as if they are both the same age, it's absolutely ADORABLE! It's cute to see these two get so excited when Doug gets home from work, or from a run... it's as if they haven't seen each other for decades! This is LOVE, and it is what makes us wake up everyday...

These are a few of my favorite random pictures of these two:

He nurtures him

He plays with him

He IS his hero

They make funny faces together

They have accomplished so much in so little time

They run and win

They play sports together

And they are ok with just watching the world go by

Truth is that anyone can be a Father, but it takes someone really special to be a DAD!

I also want to give a shout out to MY dad, simply because I LOVE him! He is such an amazing man who is also very loving, thoughtful, generous, kind, and the list goes on! He is the type that expresses his feeling very rarely, but at the same time he can't hide it either - it's easy to see right through him when you really get to know him.

Last but not least, he is a wonderful Grandfather!

Finally, this is the man I look forward to meeting again, my dearest Grandpa, who was another father figure in my life. He taught me discipline, financial independence and about Christ. He did all of these through his example. Micah didn't get to meet him, but I know he will.

We are just very blessed to have such wonderful men in our lives!

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

World Cup 2010 - Brazil vs. Ivory Coast

2010-06-21T01:06:00.000-07:00

I am getting more and more excited about the World Cup! Doug, Micah, and I watched this game today and we had some of the funniest things happen. When Brazil scored the first goal, Doug and I screamed "GOOOOOOOOAL" (as all TRUE Brazilians do!) - Micah was in his room at that time but when he heard it he came running in with both his arms up and walked in circles in our little living room at least 5 times. He was wearing a yellow shirt (Brazil's color), and looked so cute!

The best thing about watching World Cup at home is the fact that I can eat crepes while watching it! I am so addicted to them, seriously! But if you tried the crepes I eat you would be addicted too. Imagine a thin crepe covered with Nutella and on top of it there are bananas, berries, peaches, and whatever other fruits you have available and then top it off with some whipped cream - it's just delicious!

The things I disliked about watching the game at home are: (1) ABC's announcers were soooo boring! When a team scores, it's your job to jump up in your chair and scream GOAL! (my personal opinion), (2) The second yellow card against Kaka was uncalled for, the ref should have known better! I am getting extremely frustrated with the refs in the World Cup, first they magically stole a goal from the USA while playing Slovenia - and now they make such a mistake when Keita acted out and fell to the ground after intentionally walking into Kaka.

I must say I also missed Galvão Bueno... He is a Brazilian announcer and makes you feel like you are there, in the stadium, watching the game! His excitement is contagious, he is the best Brazilian soccer announcer!

Next game is going to be intense! Brazil vs. Portugal - I am not missing that one! Vai Brasil, mostra sua cara!!!

Rumo ao Hexa!

A little trivia:

The World Cup trophy is 75% gold and it weighs almost 14 pounds! It has two human beings holding the world engraved in it - it's BEAUTIFUL! The country that wins the World Cup will take it home, but not definitively, only for four years. At the end of the four years, the winner has to give the trophy back and FIFA will give them a replica.

At the bottom of the trophy, you will find the names of the champions since 1974, here they are:

1974 - Germany

1978 - Argentina

1982 - Italy

1986 - Argentina

1990 - Germany

1994 -Brazil

1998 - France

2002 - Brazil

2006 - Italy

Also, Brazil was the World Cup Champion in 1958, 1964, 1970 - Brazil have won the World Cup a record of five times, and they are the only team to have played in every tournament =)

World Cup 2010 - Brazil vs. North Korea

2010-06-20T22:53:00.000-07:00

BYU's Brazilian Association organized a room for us to watch the first game for Brazil in the World Cup, it was against North Korea and Brazil won 2-1. It was a blast! Specially because we had a Brazilian announcer, that makes such a difference! I guess that when you grow up hearing the excitement of Galvão Bueno, you just have high expectations for a World Cup game!

Since this game was on a Wednesday, just the day before finals, Doug and I spent some time studying (better said he was helping me study) - I can't believe how much more I learn from him then I ever did from this last professor I had. Anyway, here are a few pictures:

Here is me trying to get some studying done for my history final. You better not ask me who was the US president during the Korean War... I might say LBJ ;)

Do I really have something inside here when it comes to history? Seriously, I am glad some people, such as Doug, have a passion for it for I agree with the great Hispanic philosopher, Jorge Santayanna, who once said "Those who cannot remember the past are doomed to repeat it."

My wonderful husband who understands me, cares for me, and I know that loves me unconditionally - as I love him! As you can see, he was rooting for Brazil too, he is wearing a Ronaldo jersey.

This is my dearest friend, Rebeca Souza. She is the most adorable person you will find in a billion years!

I had some other wonderful friends there: Rubia Fagundes, Marcel Souza, Joyce Barreto... I really planned on taking a picture with the whole group, but I must say that when that game started, I forgot about everything and the only thing I could think about was: " Hexa Campeão!" - I will scream that until I loose my voice! =)

Graduation

2010-06-14T18:47:00.000-07:00

Doug worked so hard on his thesis, but it turned out so good! I am so proud of him for achieving his goal and graduating with honors! He finished his course in December, and did the walk in April (after a LOT of encouragement).

Doug loves his family so I was very happy to see so many of them make an extra effort to come commemorate with him. Thank you Brian, Robyn, Taylor, Shawn, Angie, Darrell, and LuDean for joining us in such a special day. We missed Ryan, who's studying in BYU-Hawaii; Teresa, who lives in Arizona but is expecting a baby girl (we all know how hard it would be to travel all the way to Provo); and Travis, who is serving a mission in Africa! I know that regardless of your absence, you were still present in your thoughts - and I am sure Doug could feel that.

Micah thought it was very interesting to see his daddy wear a dress, lol. I am surprised, myself, that Doug never brought that up as an excuse not to walk... Doug, one of a kind!

Anyway, congratulations Doug for working so hard! And I think we all deserved it - specially Micah who saw you so little during the time you were working on your thesis.

Congratulations Doug, not only GORGEOUS, but also SMART!

Why do they have a professional photographer who stands BEHIND the Dean, taking pictures of his back and still won't let families approach in an attempt to take good pictures?

Thanks for coming guys!

Darrell must be so proud of his son... can you tell how involved in education he actually STILL is?

My beautiful family that I love so much!

So, who's this guy again? I am still not sure, but they did spend quite a bit of time chatting after the ceremony.

Well done Doug, on to your Masters now!

What a deal!

2010-05-24T21:08:00.000-07:00

Friends,

I just wanted to share with you this amazing deal Microsoft has put out for students only! You can get the Office Ultimate 2007, (which includes: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Groove, Publisher, Access, and InfoPath), with 91% off! Total cost is $59.95.

Also, there is this tool that is wonderful if you have to write / edit documents in other languages and it only cost $9.95 - I just installed it yesterday and have since then lived in heaven!

Hope this helps!

Preconceito nosso de cada dia

2010-05-20T13:06:00.000-07:00

Preconceito, nunca. Temos apenas opiniões bem definidas sobre as coisas. Preconceito é o outro quem tem...

Mas, por falar nisso, já observou o leitor como temos o fácil hábito de generalizar (e prova disso é a generalização acima) sobre tudo e todos? Falamos sobre “as mulheres”, a partir de experiências pontuais; conhecemos “os políticos”, após acompanhar a carreira de dois ou três; sabemos tudo sobre os “militares” porque o síndico do nosso prédio é um sargento aposentado; discorremos sobre homossexuais (bando de sem-vergonhas), muçulmanos (gentinha atrasada), sogras (feliz foi Adão, que não tinha sogra nem caminhão), advogados (todos ladrões), professores (pobres coitados), palmeirenses (palmeirense é aquele que não tem classe para ser são-paulino nem coragem para ser corintiano), motoristas de caminhão (grossos), peões de obra (ignorantes), sócios do Paulistano (metidos a besta), dançarinos (veados), enfim, sobre tudo.

Mas discorremos de maneira especial sobre raças e nacionalidades e, por extensão, sobre atributos inerentes a pessoas nascidas em determinados países. Afinal, todos sabemos (sabemos?) que os franceses não tomam banho; os mexicanos são preguiçosos; os suíços, pontuais; os italianos, ruidosos; os judeus, argentários; os árabes, desonestos; os japoneses, trabalhadores, e por aí afora. Sabemos também que cariocas são folgados; baianos, festeiros; nordestinos, miseráveis; mineiros, diplomatas, etc. Sabemos ainda que o negro não tem o mesmo potencial que o branco, a não ser em algumas atividades bem-definidas como o esporte, a música, a dança e algumas outras que exigem mais do corpo e menos da inteligência. Quando nos deparamos com um exceção admitimos que alguém possa ser limpo, apesar de francês; trabalhador, apesar de mexicano; discreto, apesar de italiano; honesto, apesar de árabe; desprendido do dinheiro, apesar de judeu; preguiçoso, apesar de japonês e também por aí afora. Mas admitimos com relutância e em caráter totalmente excepcional.

O mecanismo funciona mais ou menos assim: estabelecemos uma expectativa de comportamento coletivo (nacional, regional, racial), mesmo sem conhecermos, pessoalmente, muitos ou mesmo nenhum membro do grupo sobre o qual pontificamos. Sabemos (sabemos?) que os mexicanos são preguiçosos porque eles aparecem sempre dormindo embaixo dos seus enormes chapelões enquanto os diligentes americanos cuidam do gado e matam bandidos nos faroestes. Para comprovar que os italianos são ruidosos achamos o bastante freqüentar uma cantina no Bixiga. Falamos sobre a inferioridade do negro a partir da observação empírica de sua condição socioeconômica. E achamos que as praias do Rio de Janeiro cheias durante os dias da semana são prova do caráter folgado do cidadão carioca.

Não nos detemos em analisar a questão um pouco mais a fundo. Não nos interessa estudar o papel que a escravidão teve na formação histórica de nossos negros. Pouco atentamos para a realidade social do povo mexicano e de como ele aparece estereotipado no cinema hollywoodiano. Nada disso. O importante é reproduzir, de forma acrítica e boçal, os preconceitos que nos são passados por piadinhas, por tradição familiar, pela religião, pela necessidade de compensar nossa real inferioridade individual por uma pretensa superioridade coletiva que assumimos ao carimbar “o outro” com a marca de qualquer inferioridade. Temos pesos, medidas e até um vocabulário diferente para nos referirmos ao “nosso” e ao do “outro”, numa atitude que, mais do que autocondescendência, não passa de preconceito puro.

Por exemplo, a nossa é religião, a do outro é seita; nós temos fervor religioso, eles são fanáticos; nós acreditamos em Deus (o nosso sempre em maiúscula), eles são fundamentalistas; nós temos hábitos, eles vícios; nós cometemos excessos compreensíveis, eles são um caso perdido; jogamos muito melhor, o adversário tem é sorte; e, finalmente, não temos preconceito, apenas opinião formada sobre as coisas. Ou deveríamos ser como esses intelectuais que para afirmar qualquer coisa acham necessário estudar e observar atentamente? Observar, estudar e agir respeitando as diferenças é o que se esperada de cidadãos que acreditam na democracia e, de fato lutam por um mundo mais justo. De nada adianta praticar nossa indignação moral diante da televisão, protestando contra limpezas raciais e discriminações pelo mundo afora, se não ficarmos atentos ao preconceito nosso de cada dia.

Sobre o autor:

Jaime Pinsky – historiador, doutor e livre docente pela USP – Este texto, que foi originalmente publicado em O Estado de S. Paulo (20/05/1993) e no livro Brasileiro (a) é assim mesmo – Cidadania e Preconceito, 1993, da Editora Contexto (www.editoracontexto.com.br)

Marisol & Ben's wedding...

2010-05-17T22:58:00.000-07:00

As I promised, here are the photos!

For those who weren't able to attend, we hope to give you a 'taste' of how beautiful this event really was, hope you enjoy it! All I can say is that Marisol was BEAUTIFUL, even more than usual, and they looked so in love! Their Temple ceremony was very special, it deeply touched my heart . Thank you for giving us the honor to accompany you in such a memorable day.

Now, the pictures:

Marisol was really tricky! She attempted to through the bouquet 3x before doing so... the ladies were going crazy!

Here is the lucky one!

They danced beautifully. Can you see LOVE written all around Ben's face?

Such a special moment... Mother and Son!

Marisol's dress is fabulous! LOVE IT!

Cake, anyone?

It is tradition in Mexico for the Bride and the Groom to have a little gift to give to the guests. Mrs. Vera made these all by hand. They are absolutely perfect! Thank you!

Friends from the MTC, and their friends =)

Cynthia worked with us in the past, she is adorable...

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my beautiful family!!!

Paul and Beca, just perfect for each other! Impossible not to love!

Of course Micah had to be in the picture!

We had a BLAST!

Te amo...

2010-05-17T21:41:00.000-07:00

Algo muito especial aconteceu no dia 15 de maio... ao deitar o Micah em sua caminha, eu cantei: "Se esta rua fosse minha," dei-lhe um beijinho e disse:

— Hora de nanar! - Normalmente ele faz uma carinha de choro...

Eu dei-lhe outro beijinho e disse:

— Eu te amo neném! E o Micah pela primeira vez respondeu:

— Te amo! - Me abraçou, me deu um beijinho, virou-se para o lado e foi dormir...

Embora este tenha sido o aniversário de 31 anos da tia Gi, fue eu quem foi presenteada com um momento tão espetacular, entre mãe e filho.

Eu te amo, neném!

Se Essa Rua Fosse Minha

Se essa rua
Se essa rua fosse minha
Eu mandava
Eu mandava ladrilhar
Com pedrinhas
Com pedrinhas de brilhante
Só pra ver
Só pra ver meu bem passar

Nessa rua
Nessa rua tem um bosque
Que se chama
Que se chama solidão
Dentro dele
Dentro dele mora um anjo
Que roubou
Que roubou meu coração

Se eu roubei
Se eu roubei teu coração
Tu roubaste
Tu roubaste o meu também
Se eu roubei
Se eu roubei teu coração
Foi porque
Só porque te quero bem

On the 15th of May, something really special happened... while putting Micah down for a nap, I laid him on his bed, sang him a song (words will follow), gave him a kiss and said "Time to sleep!." He made a long face... I gave him another kiss and said "I love you!" For the first time, he said: "I love you!" - he then gave me a kiss, a hug, and went to sleep.

Even though this was Gi's birthday, I feel like I was the one who received a gift, that of such a wonderful child!

I love you Micah!

Were mine this road

Were mine this road

I'd have it encrusted

With gems of diamond

So my [baby] could pass

In this road there's a bush

Whose name is solitude

Wherein dwells a [little] angel

Who has stolen my heart

As I have stolen your heart

So you have stolen mine

If I have stolen your heart

It was because I love you

MICAH

2010-05-12T22:50:00.000-07:00

O relógio dizia que era hora de dormir, embora a criança dançasse pois era hora de chegar. Estávamos todos ansiosos para o fim dessa jornada que havia se iniciado a nove meses, no entanto a incerteza trazia consigo medo e insegurança.

O sentimento era semelhante ao de um sino que badalava aqui e ali e a cada batida, um pequeno desconforto. No início, o sino marcava horas, porém logo os minutos passaram a ser reconhecidos. Quarenta, trinta, vinte, quinze. . . O sino acordou a casa toda! Estávamos despreparados e o sino dizia, apurem-se pois o bebê está a caminho! As roupinhas voavam e se encaixavam quase que perfeitamente na mala de viagem; dentes escovados, cabelos penteados e estávamos prontos.

No hospital, as enfermeiras não pareciam acreditar que ele estava chegando, não obstante o bebê estava pronto para dar-lhes uma lição. Na sala de preparação, as máquinas ecoavam seu batimento cardíaco que marcava 130 batidas por minuto - perfeito... por alguns segundos. Como se ele soubesse que os médicos diriam que ainda não estava na hora, ele alterou seu batimento cardíaco que caiu para 60 batidas por minuto – perigoso! Quase que imediatamente as máquinas desesperadas apitavam, como se estivessem pedindo socorro; as enfermeiras entraram na sala correndo e entenderam a mensagem que dizia: “Estou chegando!” assinado, bebê.

Fomos transferidos e os preparativos começaram, estávamos ansiosos e as enfermeiras cautelosas respeitaram sua vontade e se preparavam para conhecê-lo. O bebê estava chegando. Nossa espera, foi aconchegante - que surpresa! Os últimos minutos foram os mais difíceis pois, definitivamente, não sabíamos o que esperar, contudo depois de uma viagem de seis horas ele chegou, ansioso para conhecer seus pais. O primeiro contato físico e a primeira troca de olhar ficarão, para sempre, guardados em nossos corações.

Hoje, depois de dois anos desde que passamos por essa experiência milagrosa, reconhecemos a felicidade que é mais tangível do que imaginávamos e que se manifesta neste pequeno ser que desde o início, fez acontecer.

Com amor,

Mamãe

(Agradecimentos especiais à Prof. Fagundes, que inspirou a descrição conotativa)

Vida - Augusto Branco

2010-03-26T00:01:00.000-07:00

Já perdoei erros quase imperdoáveis,
tentei substituir pessoas insubstituíveis
e esquecer pessoas inesquecíveis.

Já fiz coisas por impulso,
já me decepcionei com pessoas
que eu nunca pensei que iriam me decepcionar,
mas também já decepcionei alguém.

Já abracei pra proteger,
já dei risada quando não podia,
fiz amigos eternos,
e amigos que eu nunca mais vi.

Amei e fui amado,
mas também já fui rejeitado,
fui amado e não amei.

Já gritei e pulei de tanta felicidade,
já vivi de amor e fiz juras eternas,
e quebrei a cara muitas vezes!

Já chorei ouvindo música e vendo fotos,
já liguei só para escutar uma voz,
me apaixonei por um sorriso,
já pensei que fosse morrer de tanta saudade
e tive medo de perder alguém especial (e acabei perdendo).

Mas vivi!
E ainda vivo!
Não passo pela vida.
E você também não deveria passar!

Viva!!

Bom mesmo é ir à luta com determinação,
abraçar a vida com paixão,
perder com classe
e vencer com ousadia,
porque o mundo pertence a quem se atreve
e a vida é "muito" para ser insignificante.

Home SWEET home!

2010-03-14T14:48:00.000-07:00

Once again, I must apologize for not answering all your e-mails, texts, posts, and phone calls individually - I hope you understand how difficult that would be. I promise I will catch up sometime soon. Thanks for the support!

It feels so good to be home! We got in and after eating some "real" food, we went right in to sleep (at least Micah and I did). We both slept for 5 hours! It was so great to be able to sleep without having someone come in every 15-30 minutes, nor any beeping noise, and ESPECIALLY, no overly sick kid.

Micah just can't have enough of his room (toys, books, movie, Mr. Monkey). He hasn't eaten and won't even try a thing, but he drank at least 10oz of V8 juice and about 2oz of milk. He seems to be feeling well and has definitely enjoyed being mobile again! We had to do two respiratory treatments on him since we got home and will probably do another one before going to sleep. He has been good and is now allowing us to do it without much of a fight.

Here are some pictures of us FINALLY leaving the hospital. Micah got to ride in a wagon (which he loved), and the nurse was just absolutely adorable to him.

He was so excited when they brought the wagon in! He was still connected to the machines but it did not prevent him from jumping in!

Look at that face! It was neat getting out of pediatrics and seeing so many happy faces - People were just definitely happy to see Micah go home!

Did he care that daddy left to get the car?

Nope!

Not one little bit =)

The nurse drove him all around and he couldn't help but feeling like a king!

Can you guess what's going on on this picture?

Micah insisted that I too get into the wagon with him, can you imagine that? lol

Forecast is GOOD!!!

2010-03-13T09:31:00.000-08:00

Micah has been improving. He is now breathing much better and his IV has been stopped. If all goes well, we will be taking him home soon. He has been strong through all the tests and procedures. He has still kept his good humor. Micah's blood-sugar level has gone back down to normal, his chest x-ray came out clean. His mucus test results will come tonight. The only real issue was his white blood cell count, which was 21,000, more than double what is normal.

He has been playing with his bed the whole morning. Now that he is feeling better he is just a ball of energy!

We appreciate all the prayers and will-wishers!

Micah's Medical Condition

2010-03-12T21:52:00.000-08:00

*** Querida família e amigos, utilize o tradutor Google - é só apertar na bandeira do Brasil que se encontra à direita da página ***

Yesterday Micah had a runny nose, but he was acting as happy as usual so we didn't think much of it. As the night was approaching, he started to cough and had some difficulty breathing. We had a difficult night. It was around 5:30am when we decided he should see a doctor immediately.

We came to the Utah Valley Hospital Emergency Room where he was seen and diagnosed with bronchiolitis. The doctor sent him home even though he was having a hard time breathing (the doctor said there was nothing that could be done).

We didn't really feel the same way so we called in and scheduled an appointment to see Micah's pediatrician as soon as possible. The three hours we waited until 11:20am were the most difficult I have had in a while. Poor Micah was just miserable.

At Dr. Clayton and Johnson's office, Micah was cared for and after a few simple tests, Dr. Johnson decided it would be best for him to come back to the Utah Valley Hospital and get checked into the hospital, where we are at the moment in the Pediatrics Ward.

The nurses have been wonderful and Dr. Johnson has come twice to check on Micah. We did some blood and mucus tests, and they also took X-rays.

Dr. Johnson is 100% sure Micah has the RSV virus which causes bronchiolitis. The blood exams showed that instead of having 1,000 white blood cells, he has 2100 (these are the ones that fight desease). All the other exams are coming in tonight and tomorrow.

Micah has been a trooper! He does NOT like to be treated and picked on, but he has really surprised me at how good he's been. During the day he had a fever of 101F-105F, but despise the fact that the day wasn't as playful as it usually is, he still found the strength to smile.

We are not sure what he was laughing about. It was unexpected that he looked up at that direction and started laughing tons. It was so contagious that both Doug and I also cracked up... Thank you Micah for making our lives worth living, we love you and know you will soon be alright.

Thank you all for your thoughts, we love you and we will keep you updated!

We love San Diego!

2010-03-08T17:38:00.000-08:00

We took off to San Diego on Thursday, Jan 14, and didn't come back until Tuesday, Jan 19 - What a wonderful little vacation! It was just fabulous to spend some good quality time with my sister, who I don't get to see as often as I would like. She has always been a wonderful example to me; it is because of her that I know that I will always have a friend!

Micah and Gi, you better watch out while near these too... close family and friends know what I am talking about, GRANADA!

Whenever we are in San Diego, we have to eat breakfast at this place close to my sister's home - I believe it's called "The Eggery" - Micah absolutely loved Gi's pineapple pancakes.

After breakfast, we decided to walk home by way of the beach (it is really close anyway). What a beautiful place!

I LOVE this picture! Doug and Micah are best friends, and it makes me so happy to see such friendship. These two mean the world to me!

This little one is just above all I could've asked for - his love and happiness radiates! It's impossible not to be happy when around Micah. EU TE AMO NENEM!!!

Micah had a blast chasing seagulls! The poor things didn't know what to do! They'd fly away and little did they know that once they landed, Micah was ready to chase them again. I wish I had such energy!

I am amazed at how sensitive Micah is. I often find myself wondering what is going on inside his mind. In the midst of playing with us, chasing the seagulls, he stopped! And just calmly walked by the shore... I believe he was not alone.

****&****

Gi and I took off one day on a girls day out. We spent hours getting ready and several hours shopping! Oh it felt so good :) - We made it to several stores: but the big hits were my favorite (Banana Republic), and Gi's favorite (Bebe). We took a camera to make sure we'd get some pictures taken. I just don't know what happens to us, when we get together it's like the world stops! We forget about everything and JUST HAVE FUN! We remembered we forgot about taking pictures after we got home. What a wonderful day!

We got to visit Daniel and Bonnie - it was so fun to get together! They have a beautiful house and a wonderful family. Micah loved having little cousins to play with. He specially loved eating ice cream with them!

So yummy! Thank you Daniel & Bonnie for the hospitality =)

*****&*****

We love breakfast! This was our last day in San Diego, so we had to go say good-bye to "The Eggery" place - yummy! Don't these two look so happy together?

After that we had to go get some pictures at the Bay, this is just across Gi's place! So lucky!

We had matching shirts! This is the jersey from our soccer team in Brazil - GO SÃO PAULO!!!

Here is Doug in the beautiful blue Brazilian soccer jersey - these two are my life!

SISTERS - what more could I say?

Some say crazy, we say HAPPY!

I like how Doug called this photo: Jumping for JOY!

I love to be FREE to do what I want. Because all I want is to be HAPPY!

HE makes me happy!

He supports me and gives me the support I need to be what I want!

And this was our flight back to Utah. Doug is the biggest reader I have ever known, I can see him reading his soup if I decide to put alphabet pasta in it, lol - take a look at Micah in the background following daddy's example! Micah has tons of books and his favorite nowadays is Dr. Seuss' The Cat in the Hat.

The funniest thing is that he will be staring at the words and saying the most random things, as if he was literally reading it. HE'S SO STINKING CUTE!

Lot's of pics on this post, hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

True Art

2010-02-09T20:26:00.000-08:00

My friend Weston is a fantastic artist, look at this beautiful portrait he drew of his wife:

You will be a bit more impressed when you compare it to an actual picture of Nicole:

Isn't he such a wonderful artist?

I thought I'd let you know about him and his talent in case you need an idea for Valentine's day. Can you imagine how beautiful a portrait of your sweet child would look hanging on the nursery or even on his/her room? Anyway, Weston is offering a special Valentine's pricing. Click HERE for a link to his blog.

Micah's Birthday Party!

2010-02-07T20:02:00.000-08:00

What a special day! Micah had such a blast playing with "Titia Gi," he also got to talk to "Vovó Stella, Titio Lúcio, Titia Li, Sophia," and others over the internet. They sang him happy b-day and he clapped and laughed, he was so happy!

After his nap, it was time for partying! We had over 60 friends come, it was such a treat to commemorate with all of them - thank you for making an effort to come, a party is never a party without friends to share it with.

I am glad I took a picture of the table before the party started. It wasn't long until all the toys got claimed!

Just for champions!

A snapshot of Micah's little friends! Aren't they all beautiful!?

Micah was so happy! We are so proud of him!

We are so glad Gi was able to come!

Here are the grandparents, what a beautiful color match!

I am sad we didn't get a picture with Brian, Robyn, and Taylor - we are so happy you guys made it!

The candles wouldn't light! After a bit of a struggle, I got it to work, for five seconds (kids love to blow candles out!). Check this out, Micah was making his b-day wish!

Nathan is such a wonderful kid, though he is over a year older than Micah, he is such a good buddy!

Look at Ciara! I can't believe she is so big! The Johnson family have been such wonderful friends to us for over 4 years now. Thank you!

Sharp is one of Micah's buddys from nursery - they play so well together! Thanks for coming!

This is Silas, Sharp's little brother. I couldn't help but to post this picture - isn't he adorable!?

Yulia and I used to be co-workers at the MTC, what a treat to have both her and Alisa with us!

These two (Paul and Beca), are so adorable! We are so happy you made it!

This is the Taylor family - Melanie is a wonderful friend and also my hair stylish. She does such a wonderful job!

The Carr family! I was so glad you were able to come! Fran and I are from the same city in Brazil.

Thank you Brian and Robyn for DJ'ing for us, they have such an amazing selection of music! They brought all their sound equipment and even their new bubble machine. The kids loved all the Disney songs and specially the super-awesome bubble machine.

Thank you all who made this such a wonderful day for us! Micah specially loves all the gifts - thank you!

PS: I want to specially thank Gi for making such an extra effort to come in a day earlier to help me get the decoration done.We spent over 12 hours between blowing up the balloons (with a hand pump), decorating the walls, the tables, the sealing, and preparing the food. It was a blast to have you with us! We also want to thank LuDean who helped me make the Brazilian b-day candies. She is also the one who made those yummy rolls everyone is talking about. Thank you!

Now, for those of you who have asked for the passion-fruit mousse recipe:

Passion Fruit Mousse

1 can of sweet condensed milk
2 cans of table cream (I use one by Nestle called Media Crema - I find it at Walmart or at any Latin stores).
1 cup of passion fruit juice (I only find it at Latin stores. I prefer the frozen one because it gives a more original flavor, in my opinion)
1/2 cup of milk
1 Tbsp gelatin ( preferably w/o flavor)

How to Prepare

1. Blend the sweet condensed milk, the table cream and the passion fruit juice (don't put both cans of the table cream in. You only need 14 oz of it so I use the sweet condensed milk's can to measure how much of it I need)

2. Boil the milk and dissolve the gelatin in it.
3. Add it to the mixture you have in the blender and blend for about 3 minutes
4. Put it in a bowl and refrigerate until firm (about 3 hours)

Optional
You can decorate it with an easy to make syrup.

You will need
1 cup of sugar
1/2 cup of H2O
1/2 cup of passion fruit juice

Combine the water and passion fruit juice in a small saucepan. Stirring frequently, cook on medium heat and gradually add the sugar. Cook until it gets consistency of a syrup. Add to mousse after cooled off.

Holidays - Goodyear, AZ

2010-01-09T14:39:00.000-08:00

Ever since I first arrived in the US, the Holidays that makes me miss home the most is undoubtedly Christmas. This is the day my father's extended family gets together to have a banquet in celebration of Christmas. In fact, I must be fair and say that it's part of a Brazilian culture to throw banquets for special events, such as birthdays or holidays but nothing can be compared to Christmas.

The sad thing is that I haven't spent Christmas in Brazil for 5 years now (not counting my mission which would make it 7). Thus, you can imagine how difficult it has been to see it spent differently than I was used to, but specially how difficult it is to be away from my family on such a special day. I believe that this made it so that I never really enjoyed Christmas in the states, until 2009.

We spent Christmas at Dave and Teresa's charming place. We started by getting lost on our way and arriving about 2 1/2 hours later than what we had initially planned. They had already opened their gifts so Drew was already zooming with his new bike all around the place. We brought Micah's and Taylor's gifts in and encouraged them to open it. Doug and I were surprise by Micah's reaction in not wanting to open his several gifts.

We thought that this would be similar to last year where he had a blast unwrapping so we made sure to wrap all his gifts in as many packages as possible. For our surprise, he opened one and he was done! It didn't matter how much everyone tried to convince him otherwise, HE WAS DONE. I was a little disappointed because I was excited to take several pictures, but it didn't take much for me to understand and learn from his example. It is definitely not about presents anyway, and Micah sure taught me that lesson. What a great example this little one is to me.

Here is Micah opening his first gift after lots of encouragement.

I sort of convinced him to open this one. He started and I ended up having to finish it

My dad was worried Santa would forget to bring Grandpa's gift so he arranged it so that Micah would have his gift by Christmas, so cute.

He LOVES this little phone thing. He records a message for the answer machine when he presses the red button, and hears it when pressing the green.

"Obrigado pelo presente vovô"

I had to open this one for him, but he sure loved it! Gi gave it to him, thanks!

We tried hard... do you think he look interested in the gift?

Doug opening the gift I got him

It had been lost for over one year

HE SAID YES!

He almost gave away the surprise by wanting to stop by the jewelry store to order a new ring (after I had ordered it)

He gave me these beautiful pearls and also the camera I am using to take all these pictures - thank you Doug!

Grandma White loves to baby her grandkids

After such a wonderful dinner, even I wanted to crash!

Thank you Dave, Teresa and Drew for being such wonderful hosts!

Holidays - Campe Verde, Arizona

2010-01-03T21:14:00.000-08:00

After spending two wonderful days with Gi in Vegas (did I forget to mention that Doug went to the Vegas Bowl Game? (BYU vs. Oregon State) - He bought 5 tickets hoping to have a good time with friends and family and it ended up that Brian was the only one who was able to make it - Anyway, we drove down to Arizona and had a wonderful time at Shawn and Angie's lovely home. We spent Christmas Eve with them and Micah went crazy having aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents all together. It was so fun to see Micah's personality shine through, he is such a character!

First Micah had fun with Aunt Angie as she was making this special recipe - boy those cookies were good!

Here is cook Micah, such a pro!

Whose kids are these? Cheese!

We did a lot of dancing...

And quite a bit of singing: "cai, cai balão"

Ryan brought some Hawaiian Necklaces and they were such a hit! The kids were all excited about them and as you see, Micah is playing the good kid by giving Drew all the necklaces.

Don't you wish you knew what these two were talking about? Absolutely adorable!

Guess who Micah was talking to?

Hint, hint! Miss Congeniality! Super busy as you can see. You better watch out Brian!

I can't believe Dave let me take this picture! :) Look how happy Drew is playing with his

Dad.

Meanwhile, we all enjoyed Teresa's recital - thanks!

Darrel and LuDean brought chimes and we were all able to "sort of" play Christmas tunes. The kids especially LOVED it. Check out how relaxed Taylor looks in Robyn's arms! Such a mama's girls!

Here is baby Taylor again! Such a cute little girl!

I can't believe Micah can play an entire song! Just kidding, but he is definitively very interested in it. Go, baby, go!

If the White boys get together, you already know what to expect...

You better watch out when Doug is around

Or Ryan...

I like this picture, we are just missing Darrel, Ryan and Travis (who is on his mission)

Now this is what I am talking about, show them how to do it Angie!

Last but not least, all of us! Check out Teresa's horns, don't they look kind of cute? ;)

(Christmas in Goodyear is Coming Soon!)

Holidays - Trip to Vegas!

2010-01-03T20:28:00.000-08:00

We were were very excited for our trip to Vegas. We arranged it so that we were able to spend two days with my sister, Gi, who was on her way to Brazil. It had been a while since we last saw her - she lives in San Diego and we miss having her around.

Micah was good and happy during our trip down, you can probably see why. His favorite movies these days are:

1) Cars

2) Alvin and the Chipmunks

3) Beverly Hills Chihuahua

We had a few rest stops and he sure enjoyed them!

Unfortunately we were so excited to spend some time together with my sister that we completely forgot to take pictures. This happens often in my family, we just love to have fun!

Both my sister and I had some shopping to do so we went to an outlet mall and I was shocked at how many awesome deals one can find there! We definitely had a blast ("we" meaning: GI, Micah and I - since Doug got bored very quickly).

Micah thought he should try these shoes before we bought them for my mom, can you believe it?

And I mean it when I say that he was REALLY making sure there were good enough for "Vovó Stella"

My dad was worried that Santa would not deliver his gift to Micah on time so he talked my sister into getting Micah something here and taking the bill down to Brazil - I must say that was really clever! And honestly Micah absolutely had a lot of fun choosing his own gift.

It was hilarious! He was in PARADISE at that toy store! He just couldn't decide what he liked the most.

Micah filled our shopping cart with toys (take a close look at who is sitting in Micah's seat). He has this thing with monkeys and every one he sees is HIS MONKEY.

Check out how he was concentrating... I'd love to know what was going through his mind as he checked each toy out.

We obviously had to play at the Carousel, it was the first time Micah got to do it. He was a little apprehensive when it started moving, but it didn't take much until he relaxed.

Little Cowboy! Check out that big smile!

Nevertheless, I must confess he wasn't the only one who enjoyed the ride. It's just wonderful to be a Mom! (especially when I get to do things that bring such great memories)

As Doug and I were looking for jeans (which

due to the fact of him wearing such an odd size, we couldn't find a good fit), Micah chilled with Aunt Gi. This is how I found them when we met again. Which one seems to be enjoying this the most?

Meu pequeno Flipper...

2009-10-27T09:21:00.000-07:00

Última semana do verão, nós decidimos passear! Fazia tempo que estavamos prometendo uma visita a Thane e Joan, assim que aproveitamos a oportunidade para visitá-los! Tivemos o prazer de também rever o Ryan, Ann, Matt e suas crianças. Como eu adoro esta família!

Primeiramente nós fomos à uma reunião de comemoração dos 100 anos da mãe do Thane (bem, ela estaria completando 100 anos caso estivesse viva). Foi uma reunião muito especial, e ela com certeza foi uma mulher fabulosa! O Micah A-D-O-R-A frango, olha so o tamanho da mordida dele!

Olha só a festa dessa criançada... no começo o Micah não queria nem saber de entrar na festa (a água tava super fria), mas assim que ele viu a mulecada se divertindo, ele não pensou duas vezes... Vejam só o Doug, querendo entrar na dança.

Olha só ele no meio dos grandalhões... se achando! As crianças maiores subiam as escadas e escorregavam, os pequenininhos tinham que ficar na piscininha. O Micah, muito esperto, só queria brincar na frente dos escorregadores, como se estivesse se apropriando de seu território.

Olha só o shortinho do Pooh!

Fazendo pose pro papai! Gatinho da mamãe!

As atividades aquáticas ainda não acabaram, depois do almoço, o Micah se divertiu muito na piscina do Thane... tava uma delícia mesmo, quentinha! Aqui o papai tava ensinando o bebê a se mover com a bóia.

Aqui o nenem já tava todo contente e até queria se virar sozinho... me deixa papai!

A água tava boa mesmo... depois de ter passado 10 semanas no Brasil sem poder aproveitar o verão americano (inverno brasileiro), este dia de lazer foi muito bem recebido!

Olha só meu Narcizinho, todo cuidadoso! Óculos de sol da mamãe, e preparando-se para MAIS BLOQUEADOR SOLAR!!!

Depois de tanta festa, nós ainda aproveitamos a compania do Matt e sua filha Whitnney! O Micah a adorou!

To the Hales Family: Please know that we love you very much!!!

Quack, quack, quack!

2009-10-27T09:13:00.000-07:00

O Micah adora visitar os patinhos na lagoa da faculdade. Assim que chegamos do Brasil, nós o levamos lá pra rever seus amiguinhos. É um lugar super lindo onde frequentemente as crianças se encontram para bricando e alimentar os patos. Vocês com certeza podem imaginar a alegria do Micah quando chegamos lá.

Olha só que lindinha a lagoa... o Micah não ficou muito cotente quando nós explicamos que ele não poderia entrar na água pra brincar com os patinhos.

Ele admirou a lagoa, os patinhos e contou uns segredinhos pro papai. Coversou, conversou... até que convenceu o papai que ele iria se portar bem.

Assim que o Doug o pôs no chão, a festa começou! Os patinhos corriam de um lado pro outro, mas não entravam n'água! Com certeza estão acostumados com a correria e brincadeira. As crianças se divertem!

Assim que começamos a alimentar os patos, o Micah parou, olhou, analizou... Ele decidiu que queria alimentá-los, mas olha só "como" ele o fez:

OBS: Por alguma razão não estou conseguindo anexar o vídeo. Segue Youtube link:

Micah e os Patinhos

Oh não! Acabou o pão? E agora? Como é que vou brincar com os patinhos?

A única saída é esquecer que prometi me comportar e entrar na água com meus amiguinhos. Depois, só preciso dar um beijinho na mamãe e um abraço de urso no papai e dizer: "please!" que tudo acabará bem.

- Na realidade, se nós não o tivessemos pêgo a tempo, ele teria, de fato, entrado n'água. Ele está SUPER sapeca e sabe bem como agir pra que ambos o Doug e eu aceitemos qualquer coisa que ele faça. Como é que eles apredem isso tão cedo?

O outono chegou!!!

2009-10-18T17:26:00.000-07:00

Definitivamente o outono é uma das minhas estações favoritas! As árvores que antes tão verdinhas estão começando a se preparar para o inverno. As folhagens estão lindas, amarelas, vermelhas... e o chão mais parece um arco-iris, tão lindo!

Hoje o dia foi perfeito (não tava frio, nem calor), então deu pra dar uma saidinha, e aproveitar o ar puro. Espero que gostem das fotos! Mil beijos e saudades de todos :)

Este é o primeiro ano que o Micah aproveita bem o outono, ano passado ele tava pequenininho. Ademais, nesta época no ano passado, acredito que já estava mais friozinho.

Havia um monte de folhas onde outras crianças tinham brincado, foi motivo de festa! O Doug jogava folhas no ar e o Micah morria de rir ao vê-las caindo.

Olha só a festa dele, que pena q a foto não está bem nítida.

Até eu cai na festa

Eu adoro ver o Doug e o Micah brincarem, aqui o Doug tinha se escondido (parcialmente como vcs podem ver), e o Micah estava tentando "desenterrá-lo."

Lar doce lar... este é o lugar onde moramos agora. Olha só o espação gramado com o playground no meio. Nem preciso dizer o quanto o Micah se diverte aqui né?

Vejam que lindas estas árvores, ainda no complexo onde moramos.

E é claro, em Utah tem montanhas... ao lado de casa...

We are still here!

2009-10-15T20:46:00.001-07:00

I know we have been absent, I have heard your requests and I promise, I will get back into blogging - but first I need to survive next weeks midterms and a final! Our lives have been crazy with Doug working on his thesis and me going to school and still working at the MTC. Micah is as cute as cute can be! He got a new hair cut and his very favorite thing to eat now is "Parfait Bites" (frozen yogurt bites with strawberry filling coated with crunchy granola - delicious!). Hopefully I will get some pics up soon. Until then, keep tight!

São Paulo week adventure

2009-07-31T22:16:00.000-07:00

We went to see Doug during his 6 week program in São Paulo. Micah and I were so excited to see him after 3 weeks of being away. We were in the São Paulo Temple grounds just waiting for Doug to arrive from his trip to Rio. When I saw Doug get off the bus, I said: "look Micah, there comes daddy". He started giggling and squirming until I put him down. He ran to daddy as if there was no tomorrow! How I enjoy seeing the love these two have for each other!

It rained the whole time we were in São Paulo so we didn't get to do a lot as we had planned. Doug still had classes in the mornings and we enjoyed having him each afternoon.

We got to stay at a Hotel we highly reccommend to anybody who's coming to visit São Paulo (The L' Hotel). It has a great location and we absolutely loved it's amenities.

This is our room. I liked seeing Micah's crib already set up as we walked in. We didn't even have to request it. He even received a little gift from them!

Here is the gift, isn't it adorable?

Doug and Micah played a lot in this indoor pool. We were unable to get the proper settings in our camera so the pics doesn't do it justice. This place was really cozy!

I just love this picture. Micah got to relax as Doug taugh him to float. Our little fish just can't look any cuter!

Time out! But it wasn't long till Micah wanted in again!

How about some warm water and jets to help you relax? Except for the fact that the jets meant PARTY to our little one, right Doug? hahah

Even mommy got to relax... Luckily there were two of these babies! This way Micah and daddy shared one and I had one to myself :>)

This is a play ground at Butanta's Mall. When we first put Micah into this air bed he wasn't able to stand up, but he never gave up. With each fall he had a big smile and when he learned how to walk there, he clapped, screamed and did let us know he had won another battle.

Here are my two favorite people in the whole world!

... and we had so much fun...

There was this slide where only bigger kids got to go to since they needed some good coordination and experience to get up the top. I got permission to take Micah up and we BOTH had a blast. This is one more reason why I love having a kid (because I am one myself).

We had so much fun!

Morumbi Mall... and these two playing tricks on each other. Doesn't Micah look adorable with Doug's hat?

He loved this little car. He jumped in as soon as he saw it, so we got it for him. He rode it for about 10 minutes, then he pushed it around the rest of the time.

We met Alice, she just married one of Doug's cousins (Thomas). She is also Brazilian and they are waiting on her visa. She is such a sweet heart, we could totally see why Tom fell for her. We hope she gets her visa soon so I will have a Brazilian cousin to hang out with :)

Gethsemane

2009-07-31T12:08:00.000-07:00

A good friend shared this with me. What a touching & spiritual presentation. And what a voice this little girl has!!! I hope you will enjoy this as much as I did. Thanks Thane, for sharing this with me.

How grateful I am for the Gospel of Jesus Christ, for His divine love for me, and for you. I know that we don't fully understand what He has done for us, at least not yet. But the little that I do know, is that He gave of Himself so that I could have the opportunity to learn and to grow through repentance and love. I know He loves me and that though He died, he rose again and He lives.

Doug is everywhere!

2009-07-18T19:05:00.000-07:00

He's visited so many cool places, some I have never been to... Hopefully he's gonna have some time to tell us a bit about his trip. But until then, here are a few pictures:

Rio de Janeiro:

Observe that both pictures are identical, except for the fact that the second one registered a lightening bolt and you can see is an island in the background.

That tiny light at the back IS the "Cristo Redentor" - what a beautiful picture!

Doug and his classmates.

Fóz do Iguaçú:

Macaco:

Tamanduá:

Pássaro:

A few of Micah's fans

2009-07-17T19:02:00.000-07:00

Vacation in Brazil is just what everyone deserves... it is even better when you are coming to see family and enjoy the perks of being around friends everywhere you go. Micah didn't necessarily know people here, but his charisma has won everyone over and so he has become everybody's little boy.

He can read Sofia's letters...

He can steal Bisa's lap from his little cousin

He can learn to play titio's guitar...

He can pull on puppy's hair...

He can ride on Tigrão's back...

He can escape titio's arms...

He can steal vovô's heart...

He can change channels and still receive hugs for it...

He can claim Kamilly's toys then turn around and them with her...

He can visit the Finassis and sometimes even lets them sit on THEIR sofa.

And this is a just a little peek into what Mr. Micah has been doing around here. Some call him "2009 Hurricane" - others ask me if he's plugged into 220 volts. All I have to say is that he is absolutely LOVING everything about being in Brazil!

Barbecue and lots of singing

2009-07-07T08:38:00.000-07:00

Micah and I went to commemorate my Uncle's b-day and had a blast! We ended up seeing most of my Mom's side of the family. It is so interesting to contrast my parents' families. On my Mom's side you will find crazy, life loving, party people. On my Dad's side they are more reserved. Of course both families are full of exceptions, but what a great balance!

At my Uncles' party, we had a blast singing karaoke. I used to do it a lot before moving to the states, it was fun to do it again. I even attempted to sing one of my favorite songs by The Beatles: Yesterday - can you believe that I scored 99?? The best was to find out that Micah also loves to sing! Not that we were able to understand the words he spoke, but he actually did have sort of a tune.

He also danced so much that at the end of the party he just couldn't stand on his feet. I couldn't help but remember the when I used to go dancing with my sisters and our friends! Sweet memories!

The one thing we did miss was Daddy... I am sure he would've loved the barbecue, and especially the karaoke (right?)

This is how Brazilian barbecue is done, hummmmmm... so goooooooooooooood!

Does this make you hungry? It certainly does me!

This is Lizandra, my brother's girlfriend. She and I were friends and went to college prep. classes together. It's cool that she will officially be part of the family! She loves taking care of Micah and he definitely likes her a LOT!

Here is my brother Lucio with Lizandra and Micah

And here is a keeper! My mom, uncles, cousins, grandpa, brother and brother's girlfriend

Our Anniversary

2009-06-23T23:53:00.000-07:00

Doug and I have been married for 3 years now! I must say that these have been the most exciting years of my whole life! You have taught me so much and we have grown so much together. We now have a beautiful boy as part of our little family and I just can't thank you enough for such a wonderful child. I absolutely can't imagine life without you and an eternity w/o you by my side would be torture!

Thank you for making me the happiest woman in the world! Thank you for making me laugh like crazy and for allowing me to be ME - and for loving me the way I am.

Unfortunately, there is this thing where this is our 3rd anniversary and the 2nd year we have to spend this day apart. What is going on? The first year, you were with the Marines, now we are both in Brazil, but I am home and you are doing a study abroad. We must stop this from happening next year, promise?

I hope you know how much I love you and that you mean the world to me!

"Avião sem asa, fogueira sem brasa
Sou eu assim sem você
Futebol sem bola,
Piu-Piu sem Frajola
Sou eu assim sem você

Por que é que tem que ser assim
Se o meu desejo não tem fim
Eu te quero a todo instante
Nem mil alto-falantes
vão poder falar por mim

Tô louco pra te ver chegar
Tô louco pra te ter nas mãos
Deitar no teu abraço
Retomar o pedaço
Que falta no meu coração

Eu não existo longe de você
E a solidão é o meu pior castigo
Eu conto as horas
Pra poder te ver
Mas o relógio tá de mal comigo."

Trip to Presidente Epitácio

2009-06-23T21:47:00.000-07:00

My uncle Moacir took us down to Presidente Epitácio and we ended up having a blast! Epitácio is a small town of approximately 40 thousand people. Micah loved the space at my uncle's house and ecspecially the trip to the river. We have definitely got a merbaby in the family!

Doug, Moacir and Micah, what a trio! This is the Paraná River, which wasnt as large as it looks now, but it has been damed off in several places to provide hydroelectricity. We visited one of those dams on our last trip to Brazil.
These men were trying to fish. I hope they were just arriving because there was no fish in their buckets ;)

There is an artificial beach where we played freesbie and enjoyed the beautiful sunny day! It's a warm winter in Brazil this year! Lucky us :)

Resting...

And on to the water!

But Mommy won't let me get in :(

So Daddy is the mediator!

Trying to trick mommy into thinking I was just interested in playing in the sand...

An artist from the city made this fish out of pieces of both motorbikes and pedal bikes... very curious!

We went to the "feira" which is like a farmer's market and as we walked through it, Micah found this little girl who was very much into his charms... look how cute they look together!

Conhecendo a vovó

2009-06-23T21:34:00.000-07:00

I knew that once Micah met my mom, he'd become grandma's little baby. But what grandparent doesn't want to baby their grandchildren? He knows where to go when mommy says "no" - but luckily enough, my mom (sometimes against her will) is cooperatinging with me. She's also being of great help since Doug is in São Paulo on his study abroad.

We all know Micah loves watching movies, but since we got to Brazil, he's been so busy doing other things that movies are no longer a priority. Here is a photo of him showing grandma his favorite movie "El Dorado"

So happy together!

WE DO MISS HIM A LOT - but we are proud of his efforts to become fluent in Portuguese. We know you can do it Gorgeous!

This was just absolutely cute! Micah held a phone by his ears as Doug had a different one. They were talking for literally 15-20 minutes. I just couldn't believe that! Unfortunately Micah stopped speaking by the time we started recording. FIGURES! These two mean the whole world to me!

OUR TRIP TO BRAZIL!!!

2009-06-18T10:51:00.000-07:00

Life is great and BUSY! We have been in Brazil now for 2 weeks and just now I got some time to blog. Thank you for the e-mails, we hope you enjoy the pics:

Our trip to Brazil was easy from SLC to Atlanta and a bit more challenging from Atlanta to Sao Paulo. Micah was too big for the bassinet so our laps had to do. We are definitely taking a big pillow on our way back to make sure the several hours of flight will be easier on Micah.

In the Atlanta Airport, we let Micah walk and play as much as he wanted... he loves being around people and people kept stopping to talk to him (which made him very happy). This kid is such a Mister Personality! He found this cart and as fast as he could, he jumped on it - what a character!

At the Mall, he found his favorit spot (a Children's playground). It is very cute and fun to be in. You pay $5 reais ($2.80 in US dollars) for 20 minutes. You are welcome to leave your children there and go shopping! Who could do that though? I absolutelly LOVE seeing Micah play and laugh, even more than I do shopping! Here are a few pictures:

There are two things Micah absolutely loves: to slide and to play with the balls! Imagine what happened when he got to slide on a whale slide and fell into a bunch of balls!

Look closely at his smiling face! He giggled and giggled the whole time we were there

So happy!

He was everywhere and had so much fun! The babysitters were all around him, I guess he already is a heartbreaker afterall.

He liked playing on these, but not near as much as falling into the 'pool of balls'

Logan's b-day :)

2009-05-27T22:41:00.000-07:00

Logan is one year old! I met Carrie (his mom) while pregnant. She was my swimming professor at BYU. She was pregnant too, so we became really good friends! She came to Micah's b-day party and it was so fun to go to Logan's! It was a beautiful day outside and both Drew and Micah loved the "Baby Pool Party".

Micah enjoyed the ball pool much more than the water one (since the water was a bit cold for him - what a baby!) Check Logan out, isn't he so cute!?!

Micah is obsessed with toy balls, and Logan was being so cute by giving Micah as many balls as he could take. Thanks for sharing Logan!

Drew, Logan, and Micah... what a trio!

This is what Micah decided to do throughout the party. He found these water guns and played with it the whole time. He loved the noise it made when pushing the air out.

This little kid was having so much fun splashing water on Micah and Drew. He was quite a bit older and both Drew and Micah didn't really know what to think of it. I thought it was quite funny! Hope you like the "action":

Not only did he get both Drew and Micah, but he also got Teresa! hahaha... it was so funny!

Fun at the park

2009-05-27T22:38:00.000-07:00

We all had a blast at the park, getting together can be so fun! Specially with lots of kids around! Micah has a cousin (Drew) who is just 6 days younger than him. Teresa and Drew spent a few days in town and we had such a fun time together. They now live in Vegas, so we don't get to see each other so often. What a pity! On another note, I wish I would've gotten a picture of Justin's family (Nicole and Bryson). It was so fun to have you come. Nicole is such a fun person to be around! (and I seriously don't know how she is able to follow Bryson around while pregnant- he's sure full of energy!)

Thank you Teresa for bringing such a fun distraction for the kids! Micah was all about taking those balls in and out! It was hilarious to see how happy he was to find the "end" of the tunnel. He'd get so excited and climb right back in to find another way out...

He found every single one of those balls inside of the tunnels... Drew was so cute, he'd throw them in for him to find! Drew is such a sharing kid!

Here Drew was sharing! He gave this and many other balls to Micah... they are meant to be best buddies! Micah absolutely loved having Drew to play with... Micah would run after Drew everywhere he went, it was definitely fun to see a friendship developing so early!

Here is Micah's best buddy! Doug was the center of attention for a while juggling these balls. Not only Micah and Drew were impressed by it, but many other kids that were playing around.

Drew and Micah played ball! It was so cute! Each one in their own personal way, but look how cute they look together! (bellow)

So you think you can dance?

Micah certainly believes so! He was so excited he was tap dancing and as you can see by the hand ready to support him, Doug was a bit nervous. I don't blame him though - Micah is completely fearless, and that can be scary at times!

Nothing like a video to show reality! Notice that when Josh starts making a tune by tapping on the table, Micah gets a little puzzled by the new tune, and then says "NO" as if Josh was messing up his performance. Hilarious!

This is the second video I have in the frisbee series, I must say that in the first one Micah is laughing much harder, but the image in this one is much better. Doug and Justin were throwing the frisbee and Micah decided he wanted to play too. It was so fun to see both Micah and Doug being active together. I know that playing sports is going to be a frequent thing in our family, and I wanted to register the first time it actually happened.