Keeping Up With The Hoffmann's

Baby Number 2 on the Way

2011-04-11T00:12:00.000-07:00

Yes it's been a while since I last blogged. I'm happy to report that we're expecting baby number two after nearly five years! I suspected that I was pregnant with the way my appetite became aggressive and I was hungry more throughout the day. Parts of my female anatomy began to be enlarged and sore. I knew I needed to confirm my suspicions with a home pregnancy test. I tested on Wednesday, the 6th of April. I originally wanted to test on Monday, the 4th; my birthday, but we were constantly on the go. It was a wonderful birthday! We celebrated by going to get new phones. We didn't get these new phones until Thursday. I love my new phone, I love that I have a baby growing in my tummy, and I love that the little one will be born before the year's end. Wonderful news all around! I will no longer be working as a Student Assistant in the Special Events department. Instead, I will be a TVA Resident Advisor. My rent will be taken care of, my work is super close to home, and I won't have to stress so much about devotionals and graduation and other events that required a lot of time and prep.

Well, that's the news for today. My goal is keep up to date with my pregnancy. I will do my best.

Until next time!

6 Month Update in 160 Characters or Less

2010-06-16T18:05:00.001-07:00

Koki joined Army National Guard as E4 Specialist

I'm doing the Body For Life Challenge

Tehani will start preschool this year!

We are :)

My Husband Thinks I'm a Nerd...so what else is new?

2010-01-25T09:51:00.000-08:00

Let me just start by saying things for me have not changed in the least bit when it comes to blogging. I have my on and off seasons. I'll work on that. So, let's do a quick update on what's new.

I have finally started college! After 6 years of summer vacation, the school year has finally begun. How I've missed school. Koki thinks I'm a nerd because I'm excited about school and because I seem to always talk about it and because I was bummed that I got a 91% on my math test. Of course I was bummed, I expected a 96% at least for the study I put into it. Next time. My goal this semester is a 4.0 and from there 4.0's every term and every semester. But, I'm taking it one semester at a time. Technically, I'm majoring TESOL (Teaching English As A Second Language) but I'm changing that to business soon as I get around to doing it. No rush though. I'm taking Eng. 101, Math 106 (problem solving), Intro to business, and Student Development. So far, so good. I'll update around mid-term about how I'm doing in my classes.

Koki has his permanent client in Hale'iwa and so he travels there every school day and even furlough friday's. So far he seems to like his job.

Tehani just woke up with a stuffy nose. The poor thing. She's now 33 lbs. She hasn't started school yet, and I still feel strongly about homeschooling her for the first years of her life, at least. I just can't find the time to do it between school and work. So we're thinking about putting her in school this coming August, unless I can come up with a solution for my schedule. Other than that, nothing else is new. She loves to sing, and speak on the mic in primary. Oh YA! She's a sunbeam now...and I still have to go with her to class. I'm hpoing that she'll soon be able to go alone. I miss being in Relief Society.

That's what's fresh here...

Upromise Guest Shopping for Brieanne

2009-10-27T04:15:00.000-07:00

Shop as a guest at Upromise and save $$$. Our family is learning how to utilize coupons and deals. We're learning how NOT to pay full price at the grocery stores. Plus, if you shop online, using the link provided, you help me pay for my college expenses. If you shop for makeup, straight irons, clothing, food, diapers, office supplies, medicine, and anything else you can think of, click on the link below to save money and help me save for college. Thanks!
Upromise Guest Shopping for Brieanne

Store list
-Ebay
-Walmart
-Best Buy
-Overstock.com
-Target.com
-Expedia
-Barnes & Noble

There are hundreds more! Happy Saving!

Help me earn more scholarship points!

2009-10-24T15:10:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone! I’m trying to earn scholarship points to improve my chances of winning the scholarship contests on scholarshippoints.com. If you need the money click here, but if you just want to help me accrue more points you can click here. Thanks! I appreciate it!

My student status is confirmed…

2009-10-24T02:33:00.001-07:00

I talked to my sis-in-law who works at the financial aid department at byu and she confirmed to me that I was enrolled as a regular student, therefore, I am able to receive grant money! You know, I just knew the Lord the would come through for me. He’s helped me because I asked, and not only did I ask, but I offered a worthy sacrifice and only God knows how difficult that was for me. But, I put my faith and trust in Him, knowing that it was the best decision and a commandment, I knew that He would bless me for it. And he has. Amazing how there is always opportunity to share and bear testimony. Let that be a witness to you. When you pay your tithing faithfully and submit yourself to His will, you receive far more than what you gave away in the first place. No amount of money can buy you a testimony or add to it.

I’m excited about school. While I know it won’t always be enjoyable, in fact, I anticipate a lot of sweat and tears, but anything is possible when the Lord is involved. Anything. I cannot begin to express how hard it is for me to ignore doubts and complaints coming from certain people. I feel like I’m trying to run a race and someone’s hanging on to my leg, slowing me down. Sometimes I want to give up because it’s just too hard, but I think if I keep pressing forward, I’ll get stronger along the way.

So to back track, I am enrolled as a student at BYUH and my tuition and books are already paid for by the pell grant that I applied for just in time!

My 2 year old has reached a new milestone…

2009-10-24T02:32:00.001-07:00

Tehani has been drawing lopsided circles and random lines for a long while now. She would by chance scribble a triangle sometimes and get excited about it. But this morning when she was scribbling, she had made several squares, some not so square and others were very well drawn. She got excited about it and showed it to me. I was happy of course and asked her to draw another one for me. And I watched as she held the pen in her hand and pressed it against the paper and I saw her struggling to keep control while she drew the sides of her square. And I got really excited because I realized that she was controlling her movement. I asked her to draw a triangle. She tried, but the first one was a failure. I watched her struggle to control the pen and where her lines went. It took a few tries for her to get one with all sides touching. I, of course, like the proud mama that I am, showed my mom with a big smile on my face. I told her to write the letter “T” like in her name. And she did that with no problem. It was a perfect capital “T.” Usually her lines would be disconnected and made no real sense. But I can see she is beginning to learn to control her hand. I will definitely encourage it. She’s even gotten better with cutting paper. She had a hard time holding the scissors and opening and shutting them, but now she holds them well and is trying to coordinate between both hands when cutting paper. She has definitely improved. Soon I’ll have lines for her to follow when cutting. I am so proud of her. She’s reached a new milestone. She’ll be 3 in December and I’m excited about that. She’ll be old enough to participate in keiki sports and classes.

BYUH Acceptance?

2009-10-22T01:04:00.001-07:00

So, for those of you who didn’t know, I applied to BYUH hoping to get in for winter semester. I’d been worried about this application. I wasn’t a terrific student in high school, my SAT’s were…just below average, in my opinion and it’s been years since I have stepped foot on campus as a student. But to my relief, I had been found fit to participate in BYUH’s challenge program. I will be a conditional student meaning if I don’t meet the requirements at the end of my first semester, I cannot be a regular student. The requirements are that I take ENG 101 and Student Development 101 and also another GE class. I must take a minimum of 12 credit hours and I must get a minimum 2.5 GPA cumulative and if I’m not mistake, in my individual GE classes as well? I have to go look at the letter again. The only question I have at the moment, is will I be able to qualify for financial aid seeing as my status is conditional. I wish definitely check that out. But I am relieved. The Lord answers prayers. Now I’m debating between potential majors. I have several areas of interest. 1. Early childhood education-BYUH doesn’t offer, so I would have to transfer elsewhere if I wanted to pursue this. 2. IT-specifically web design, but I am also interested in learning how to program applications, and software. 3. Business- I want to learn all about how to run a business, understanding economics, and all that good stuff.

So what else is new?

Well, I’m the laundry girl for luau now, so I’ve picked up a few hours there. I absolutely love doing laundry! I get to work all by myself, and in between loads, I study and plan for seminary, research topics of interest, and sing! lol. Yes, I sing.

That’s all for my update for now. I will continue to update the information above as things progress.

Tehani’s prayers…

2009-09-26T03:29:00.001-07:00

I do love to listen to Tehani giving a prayer. I love when she starts praying for everybody, and everything. Tonight, she blessed the food before we ate and it was so funny. We had chicken baked in cream of mushroom soup, rice, and broccoli with cheese on the side. I saw her looking at the broccoli as if she was afraid. She started her prayer, “Heavenly Father, we thank thee for….” and she pauses for a little bit, and then points to the broccoli and says “for that” and she continues on “we ask thee, for bless it…..” and she goes on to ask that it will nourish our bodies. It was the cutest! I loved how she was most concerned about the broccoli and how she didn’t know what it was called. You can tell that it isn’t often that we eat broccoli. lol. I thought it was the cutest! It made my night. I love Tehani’s prayers.

prayer at "tea time"

Under The Weather....

2009-09-23T01:17:00.000-07:00

I caught a cold! Gone are the days when I could share a drink with a contaminated person and not get sick. I never used to get sick so easily. Perhaps I need to change my diet? I've been exercising! Perhaps I need vitamins? I could use some Nyquil about now so I can sleep through the night with out waking up and feeling the sore throat, the heaviness, the congestion, the misery.

President Hinckley said, “I have never accepted the principle of ‘spare the rod and spoil the child.’ ” He also recalled that “his father never laid a hand on him except to bless him, and he intended to follow suit.”

2009-09-21T02:55:00.001-07:00

President Hinkley will always be a man I hold in high esteem, and a man I will forever respect. His words were like music to me and always struck a chord within me. I only wish that I was more like him when it came to parenting. He expressed that his father was a good man and only ever laid his hands on him to bless him and that he intended to follow his example. I cannot even begin to tell you how that makes me feel. It takes a great amount of self-control to tame a flaring temper. Something I fail to do time and time again. He also mentions that he never believed in the absence of discipline. I, too, believe in discipline, but frown upon corporal punishment, especially in the case of children. But, even I, spank and lose my temper, and then I become a guilt burdened mom, who feels she doesn’t deserve to be a mother. Children need to be loved and nurtured. What message are we sending them if we’re hitting them, or losing patience with them? They learn by example. Tehani learns by example. She does what she sees us do, and when she does something she isn’t supposed to be doing, she gets reprimanded, and spanked. What wrong did she do really, if what she did was something she saw us do? Who’s at fault then? It’s SO important to be the best examples that we can be for our kids. We are responsible for their upbringing and we will answer to God at judgment day for it.

Shoutouts!

2009-09-07T00:27:00.000-07:00

Today's shoutout goes to Jean Livai, my teaching partner. She collected:

hats

white make-up bags (with the butterfly on the zipper)

clocks

red wooden aloha slippers

red Frisbees

4 bags of the m&m's

&
3 Maui bags
I am so relieved that now our class has proof that their dollars are definitely worth something in our class. The invitation is still offered to all of you who might be able to donate.

Thanks again JEAN! You rock!

I'm Asking For Your Help....

2009-09-06T03:53:00.000-07:00

If you read my past posts, or have gone on to my personal blog The Wonderful World of Brie, then you will know that I have been called to be a seminary teacher for my ward's juniors and seniors. And if you read my posts, then you will have already heard that my first week was kind of rough. I introduced the idea of having a paper money silent auction with my mom's class, the freshmen and sophomores. So my teaching partner and I, Sister Livai, award "money" for commendable behavior, on-time attendance, PERFECT on-time attendance, class participation, complete scripture mastery, and basically, we award their efforts in completing assignments. There are so many ways for them to earn that money. So with that said, I would like to ask you to help us with accumulating items to go into our silent auction. We are trying to find items that might get the students excited about earning money. Have you got any collectibles that you just don't have room for anymore? Clothes, hats, wallets, bags, scrapbooking things, movie coupons, disposable cameras, anything. If you have things at home that are fairly new or in good condition, that you would feel good about donating to our seminary silent auction, please contact me. You may leave me a comment, or email me using the contact form on the side.

Thanks!

The Hoffmann Family Update

2009-08-29T18:21:00.000-07:00

Here we are with another family update.

We've been house-sitting a house here in Laie, on the point. A very nice house indeed. We should be here for a few more days before it's time to pack up. Tehani really loves it here and refers to it as "the other house". Our friends live right below it and have a son Tehani's age. She likes him. She's always referring to him when she talks, at first calling him "the boy" and more specifically, "the boy kicking the ball at the pictures"...but I've corrected her names for him and now she calls him by his proper name, Ammon.

This past Thursday was Koki's first soccer game. Unfortunately, BYU-H lost to Upper Iowa 1-0. But if you really think about it, it's not really a loss. So long as use these experiences to grow and get better, how could it be a loss, if in the end, it helps them win the championship? You follow me?

I recently received a calling on the stake level to be a seminary teacher. Boy was I excited to receive that! So this past week, I visited this class that I was to be teaching. There is already another teacher who I will be team teaching with. She's really cool and energetic. I like her. I've been trying to prepare my lessons, but I'm finding it a little hard since Tehani just loves to spend time with me. But, nevertheless, I am glad to be a seminary teacher. My first class is on Monday. In fact, my first week, is next week. We'll be switching off weeks, so that's good that I'll have an entire week to prepare lessons. No stress!

Tehani continues to grow and improve in her communication abilities. She speaks in complete sentences and is slowly mastering her use of past tense. She tries to use it in her sentences, and sometimes it doesn't make sense, but she's trying and I'm so proud of her. Her speech is clear and intelligent and she understands the emotion behind words. She learns so quickly and I can't believe she's only 2! I continue to toss the idea back and forth of home teaching her. While I would love to be her teacher, I still want her to have that interaction with other kids and people that she'd get at school. I just fear what kinds of things she'll bring home from school that might prove to be problematic.

That's all for now folks! Until next, peace out!

The Wonderful World of Brie

2009-08-22T01:34:00.001-07:00

The Wonderful World of Brie

So in case you missed my previous announcement, this is an added blog of mine. This is going to be my very own personal blog. All family updates will be put on the family blog. All my thoughts, feelings, and randomness will be posted to my personal blog. Add it to your blogroll, and follow me. See you there!

Four Years Down....An Eternity To Go...

2009-08-19T04:43:00.001-07:00

Wow time flies. It really does. I used to laugh when people said that marriage was difficult. I didn't understand how marriage could be hard. It was a dream to me. Now I know. We have our differences of opinion, traditions, cultural background, and preferences. But, we have our great times and they always outweigh the not so great.

Today, we spent the day with family at the waterpark. I was glad to have gone, even though I didn't get to ride all the "big" rides, I still had a good time. I enjoyed watching Tehani enjoy herself. It was most rewarding. I'm not all bummed out that Koki and I didn't have an official date night. I'm glad we went to the waterpark.

Happy Anniversary to us! woohoo! Wonder what year 5 will bring?

Goodnite all! It's been a long august the 19th.

Hoffmann Family Updates

2009-08-15T03:08:00.001-07:00

Okay, here we go, another round of family updates! Starting with Koki.

Koki got a job as a skills trainer. YAY! He's already gone to his orientation and now he's going to attend a job shadow on Tuesday, in Kapolei. There's quite a few things for him to do before he actually gets assigned to a client. He's also got loads of paperwork to fill out and some other training to do. I can tell he's excited...*ahem*...Also, soccer practices have started. In fact, tomorrow there's a free soccer camp for anyone who's interested! Sometime in the morning, so check out the soccer field if you're interested. I knew I should have paid more attention when he told me about it. I'll work on that. And later on that day, they'll be having their Red and White game. I believe that's the new recruits against returning players? I could be wrong.

I did not get that job that I applied for at Turtle Bay. But I'm not going to let that get me down. I'm just going keep an eye out for other opportunities and plan ahead for school. My dilemma is I want to go to Winter semester over here at BYUH, but the application deadline for new freshman is in October. I believe I need to submit my SAT/ACT test scores in with my application, but the last time I took the SAT was back in high school like, four or five years ago. I don't think they'll accept that. And the problem is that the next testing date is after the BYUH application deadline. I still haven't talked to someone at admissions yet. I will make it a point to go and do so. I also got called as a seminary teacher for our ward. Actually, I'm more like an alternate teacher. I still don't know the details of it, but I know I was extended the call, and I accepted the call.

Tehani continues to grow in experience and learns quickly. She's getting a bit better in sounding out new words, and grows more and more independent when going to the toilet. Now she insists that I wait outside while she goes toilet. She's getting better when it comes to going to nursery and staying in. She doesn't continue to scream and make everyone else miserable. She settles down and enjoys the rest of her time in class. I'm glad.

Well, that's our updates as of 12:27 am Saturday the 15th of August.

My New Blog Is Up!

2009-08-14T20:28:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! or shall I say, Hi Carol? hehehe, you seem to be the only one that reads anything I post. lol. It's ok. It's what I get for not being consistent. Anyway, for any of who happened upon this blog, I just want to announce that I've made me another blog. My very own personal blog. I will definitely keep this one around and update you all on what's going on with the family and all, but the other is more for what pleases me to blog. Not just updates, but reviews, opinions, short stories, etc...Whatever I feel like blogging! I'm excited about it. Check it out!

2009-08-12T22:02:00.001-07:00

Free show 2nite @ niteshow...to go or not to go...

2009-08-12T17:14:00.003-07:00

st a heads up.

2009-08-12T17:14:00.001-07:00

This post comes by way of text as i am laying next to tehani, trying to get her to nap. A new blog is in the making...AGAIN! I will get into it later. Ju

2009-08-12T12:51:00.001-07:00

Thanks 2 moms unlimited txting. I am now a mobile blogger, tweeter, and facebooker!

Got OOVOO?

2009-08-09T16:22:00.000-07:00

I added a new widget to my blog. To the right of this page you'll see a button that says "Discuss on Oovoo"...click on it anytime you like and try to get me online. We'll video chat! If you haven't already gotten oovoo, check it out. It's awesome! A great way to keep in touch with family and friends.

2 down....one more to go? or no?

2009-08-07T15:17:00.001-07:00

Today I had my second interview with turtle bay. Honestly, I think I did well. It was an interview with a lady and a man. The lady asked all the questions and the guy just sat and watched me answer the questions. I think he was watching my body language. But, I don't regret anything that I did. The interviewer's phone was beeping during the interview and was quite disruptive and I know I glanced over at it a few times and laughed to myself which I know the guy saw me do. I thought to myself, isn't it good manners to silence your phone in an interview even if you're the one giving the interview? Anyway, we'll see where my application goes, whether it continues on to the next level or not. I'm thinking of working in the spa instead.

Quickly, I'm going to go to school. I'm still figuring it out, but it's what I want to do.

Gotta go. sorry so sudden but the keiki calls....

laters!

Am I Good Enough?

2009-07-31T11:14:00.000-07:00

So, I've had one of those depressing days where I thought I was just useless and undeserving of all the good things in life. UGH! I know I'm smart and have great potential to do good, even great things! But, I guess my confidence in myself is lacking. I don't necessarily have much to show for in terms of certificates, awards, trophies, or degrees. So I guess that why I'm afraid to go out and look for another job outside of PCC. I'm afraid of not being good enough. Rejection hurts when one takes it personal. I haven't yet learned to not take it personal. I decided that I'm going to try and get a job somewhere besides PCC. I decided to try turtle bay. I hear they have openings so I'm going to go try. Am I going to be good enough for them? I guess that all depends on what position I'm trying to get. I'll keep you all posted! Wish me luck! Or even better, pray for me. hehehe.

One of Those Days...

2009-07-30T01:02:00.000-07:00

Ever had one of those days where it's starts off okay, and as you make your way through it, it all kind of just comes crashing down? Ever feel like you were alone? Like the world was turning its back on you? It feels like that sometimes. That everyone around you kind of just looks down on you. You realized or think to yourself that all of your talent, work, or sometimes even friendship, really doesn't mean that much. Today is one of those days. Things just keep getting worse and worse. I hate that I feel like this!

note: You may be confused with this post. Wondering, "where did all of this come from?"...well, confusion is totally normal. and so you know, you will continue to remain in the dark when it comes to details. it isn't important really. I'm just letting off steam....getting this out....

**check out my blog here

I'm Back!

2009-07-26T22:38:00.000-07:00

I purposely neglected to update this blog because I was concentrating on other things. Things like, Mafia Wars, Facebook, and understanding what's so great about Twitter. I'm still not sold on Twitter, but am willing to try it out. For those of you on Facebook, look for me! By the way, I only accept friend requests from people I actually know. So if any of you freaks out there think you're gonna get lucky, think again. Okay that sounded mean. Sorry. I don't know how long this blogging streak is gonna last. I'll put up a poll. And whoever still visits from time to time can vote. Maybe by the time that people actually vote, (assuming you people will vote) I'll already have fallen behind in my blogging. We shall see. As for me, I predict my blogging will be pretty consistent all the way up until Halloween. After that, I think all bets are off. But let's get on with my quick update of the family starting with Koki.

Koki applied for a job as a skills trainer and went in for his 1st interview last week. He's waiting for a call. The soccer season starts soon and so he'll be leaving for trips and games throughout the fall semester.

I am still at PCC dancing at the Luau. While I love dancing and performing there, I think I'm sort of getting over it. But then again, some days I am so happy dancing. *SIGH* No I don't plan on being there forever.

Tehani is 2 and a half years old now. She's very assertive. She loves to play with makeup, prefers to wear boys clothes, and doesn't like to tie her hair back. She repeats everything she sees and hears pretty accurately. She acts out scenes from movies that she likes such as Twilight, Happy Feet, Mall Cop, and Finding Nemo. OH! And Hairspray. Tehani knows it's Sunday when she sees me in my church clothes. When I wake her up, she sees what I'm wearing and right away decides that she's too tired, or too cold to get up. Then she says she doesn't want to go to class. She dreads nursery for fear of being left there by herself.

That's the quick update. More to come in due time. Come back now ya hear!

UPDATES!!!

2009-05-22T03:53:00.000-07:00

I know! I'm fired! I'm not such a good blogger....sorry. Micah and Harm reminded me that I needed to update my blog. So there are a few updates for those who knew anything about what was going on with our plans and what not. Remember how I said we were going to move to Tahiti? Yeah, well...things have changed. That happens a lot with us. Koki was offered an assistant coaching position for the men's soccer team at byuh so we're staying for another year at least. He also wants to pursue his masters while we're here. So all of this is good news! I'm back dancing at luau but judging by the looks of things I'll have to find another job or find a way to get 40 hours. Coaching doesn't pay great and we'll have rent and bills to pay, so I'm probably going to have to find something more. I'm not big on working full time especially now that i'm a mom. by the way, Tehani is now 2 years old and talks a lot. Quite the sass, actually.

those are the updates...

Added Blog....

2009-04-17T02:05:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know I'm not very good at this blogging thing, but I still like to do it. I've made another blog specifically for my own personal thoughts and feelings and whatever I feel like blogging about. Yes Harm, I am giving this blogging another shot...hehehe....and now you can't say I haven't updated my blog....I know I suck! While I'm at it, I might as well let you all know, whoever reads this, that our plans to move to Tahiti are still in play and we are currently working on getting our visas and everything that needs to be done with it. I started dancing at PCC again. I'm working at the Luau with all my other brothers and sister...and can't forget Tashiana...cousin! yup, it's the Kahaialii Luau, didn't you know? hahaha, just kidding. it was fun, i've really missed dancing. Okay well, don't forget to visit my other blog...

http://intothemindofbrie.blogspot.com

IF you think you can handle it....

MUAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

HAPPY HALLOWEEN 2008

2008-11-03T02:10:00.000-08:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!! And I can say it was a Happy Halloween! The day started out slow, but sure ended well. Tehani had been sick with a fever for 3 days including Halloween Night. How miserable huh? But to my surprise and delight, she showed a lot of excitement and enjoyment! She especially loved saying "Trick or Treat"? But even better, she loved holding out her hand and collecting the candies. We spent this Halloween trick or treating at Ala Moana. I like it. It's like one stop shopping. No need to drive or walk around looking for houses with candy. The stores had signs on them saying either "Trick or Treat here" or "Sorry, we ran out of candy". No guessing, no threat, just good old family fun. Seeing how everyone else was dressed was fun too. Of course in my eyes, no one could be cuter than my little nurse! Halloween is so much fun. The best part is dressing up. Unfortunately, this year we went without costumes, but my mind is already at work for next year's Halloween. I've got some ideas. We'll see though. After we went trick or treating, we went to...WAIT...I bet you could guess! Tehani's favorite....MCDONALDS! Yup! We sure were hungry! That's the only full length pic I got of her. Of course all these photo's were from my phone, because once again, I was without my camera! Ugh! Anyway, that's my little nurse...who was sick with the fever....and of course me being the great parent that I am, couldn't let her miss out on all the fun and free candy! There she is sitting in the high chair, just waiting for her daddy to come back with food. It was a nice family night out. It's funny how blogging reminds you of other things....I just thought of Tehani's birthday that's coming up...WHAT ARE WE GONNA DO? I'm thinking something small. She still doesn't understand birthdays...so it won't be a big deal. Anyway, I better get going. Laters!

Brie

My Precious

2008-10-18T18:38:00.000-07:00

Have you ever just stopped to think? There could be a thousand things to do, hundreds of conflicts in your mind, and you feel you're about to just fall apart? Just stop. Think. What is it that you think of? What is it that you take notice of? What is it that brings you joy? Time and time again, I find Tehani to be that for me. I'll catch myself sometimes putting her aside for these errands, or assignments, and problems! Then I stop myself, take a breath of fresh air, and listen to what she has to say. And believe me, she has a lot to say! lol. It's then that I re-realize just how precious and special she is. And how she blesses my life each and every day. It's those days when I just want to forget everything I once worried about and just play with Tehani and laugh and just have a good time. Sadly, I return to reality real fast and am crushed when I still have these assignments, and expectations, and conflicts to face. But, that's life! We live to learn and learn to live....each and everyday.

I Thought I Was Going To Die

2008-08-04T04:57:00.000-07:00

As far as I can recall, I have never had to fight for my life as I did tonite. It was the scariest thing for me. It was probably around 9pm when Jeremy told me to go eat. He cooked steak and oysters for dinner tonight. I'm not a true seafood lover, so I was worried about having to eat the oysters. After loading half my plate with rice, I forked in a handful of steak and a tiny sliver of oyster, as small as I could get, and drizzled some sauce over it. As I started to eat, Jeremy came by and informed me saying, "You going notice da diff'rence between dis beef and da one you buy from da store. Dis one is bettah. It's wild cow das why." He was right that it was good. It really was tasty. It was chewier than what I'm used to eating, but it was still very good. Tehani came by asking for some food and so I let her take a bite out of a good piece of meat that she would be able to chew. She did fine. I took in a forkful of rice and a good sized steak and chewed one side at a time. I had so much in my mouth, I had to swallow some and after chewing one side (thinking I had chewed it through thoroughly), I swallowed. Then the nightmare began. Instead of one piece separating from the other as I had expected, the entire piece went down and got stuck in my throat. I believe I chewed it, not severing it, but lengthened the piece instead, making it one long and thick chunk of steak. I made an attempt to hock it back out but the meat didn't budge. I flew into panick. All I could think of was to get help. Luckily everyone was home, and Koki was right in front of me, playing Call of Duty 4 while my brothers were in the back room playing their games as well. In desperation, I flew myself at Koki trying to get his attention, at the same time, doing what I could to get some air. He looked at me weirdly and turned back to his game, thinking I was playing with Tehani and hit him accidentally. I started hitting the ground while trying to hock up that meat, growing more and more desperate for air. I looked at Koki begging him for help with my eyes, as I had gotten his attention again and then it hit him that something was wrong. And as he realized it, I was able to make some improvement for a short time, spitting out rice and freeing up a little more space in my throat for little air to enter. Koki rushed to pull me up and tried to perform the heimlich maneuver on me, but to no avail. My stomach was beginning to hurt and I was fighting for air. After Koki's second failed attempt at the heimlich, I was questioning whether I was going to get it out. In a split second I thought the worst case scenario would be that I would black out and hopefully not die. All the noise and ruckus got the attention of my brothers who came rushing out with concern. I can still feel their helplessness seeing me gasping for air. Koki took me again from behind and tried once more, but out of sheer panick and desperation I fought him hoping to be able to position myself in a way that would be best in freeing my airway. Hina shouted to me to let Koki do it and try to work with him. Soon after that I felt a tiny shift in my throat that helped me to be able to swallow the entire thing. As it went down, relief came in the form of gulps of air. Air that I had to fight for, that I never thought I would experience a shortage of. I continued to cough and gasp a little more and I could feel that I wanted to cry, but I stopped myself. I don't think I wanted to sound like a crybaby about it, so I kept myself from doing it. My eyes were watery and I was shooken up pretty good. I'm just so thankful that Koki was there and that he didn't wait too long to help out, and that my brothers showed concern instead of getting upset about it. I'm thankful the Lord helped me out. That meat wouldn't budge! I was close to being hopeless! You know what they say. Once you lose hope, it's all downhill from there. Anyway, after that experience, I know for sure, I don't want to die choking, suffocating, or drowning. I guess because you're fully aware of what's going on. I prefer a quick death, one that I can't even see coming, and I prefer not to die within the next 60 years. I think Jordin Sparks and Chris Brown's song "No Air" makes it as the song of the night tonight. LOL.

Before I Head Off To Bed....just a quick thought

2008-07-28T04:56:00.000-07:00

it's 3 minutes to 2am and i'm still on my computer, this time i'm not playing solitaire. i've turned into quite the solitaire addict, i confess! i'm trying to break the habit little by little. anyway, so i've been quite concerned about tehani's future, and have been from day one. lately though my mind has dwelled on the idea of homeschooling. so tonite i looked up as much information as i possibly could and i came across this method they call "unschooling". interesting really. the idea of the method is to let the child direct their own education. the parent takes cues from the child, their interests and educates them that way. there isn't any real formal anything to it. so, its schooling 24/7 basically. i was reading some FAQ's on the subject about how kids who've attended a traditional school and were now being unschooled, wanted to do nothing. the site explained that those kids need to be "deschooled". they mentioned how for many, the traditional school environment basically took away the joy of learning. i found that to be true for me, of course i believe i made those decisions on my own, i wasn't free from outside influences. After reading that part, i realized it was actually very true for me. i found that i enjoyed learning when i got out of highschool, when i wasn't being forced to do it. i found i spent a lot of time looking up topics of interest and the main ones being foreign language and music. time spent learning on my own was fun and hours could go by and i wouldn't get bored. after this epiphany, i'm leaning more towards homeschooling. i'm still researching right now and i'm actually really excited about it. i'll tell you more later, but now i have to get some sleep. it's 2:07am. exactly 10 minutes from start to finish. goodnite!!!

BREAK!!!!

2008-07-17T19:23:00.000-07:00

okay okay....you're gonna be disappointed. i'm taking a break from my P90X...even i'm disappointed!!! i guess i can't be motivated when there isn't a diet to go along with it. people will tell me to just be careful of what i eat...well, if only they really understood the circumstances. we don't have our own place right now which means the space in this house is limited. i couldn't go shopping cuz there wouldn't be any place for it. i hate to eat up all their food here. so i'm breaking from P90X...when i start back again, i'll be sure i have what i need to keep me going. and trust me....nurtrition is VERY important when it comes to this program. if you don't eat the right foods in the right amounts....you may find you don't have the energy when it comes to the workouts. so that's my not so happy news!!! and another thing...tehani's sleeping over her grandma's house tonite. her aunties missed her and she missed her aunties. i'll see her tomorrow morning. i kind of already miss having her around. okay well...until next time...take care!

Family Fieldtrip

2008-07-07T22:53:00.000-07:00

so we took a little ride up tantlus to check out the view. it was such a hot day and we just had to get out of the house. tehani was happy to get out of the house and so was i. it was just way too hot. when we got to the top we found 3 police units and 2 very unhappy japanese tourists. there was glass all over the ground in the area where the car window was broken. i felt so sorry for them. i'm not sure if anything of value was taken or not. UGH! but anyway, i took comfort in knowing that no one would dare try that again so long as the cops were there. so, we enjoyed the view for the most part. i agree the view would be better appreciated at night with all the lights. it was a nice change of activity for us. it sure beats sitting at home watching tv!

here's tehani happy to show me her shoe!

here's koki over looking the view of the city and diamond head.
tehani "wow"s the clouds...

what can i say? she loves her mommy! hehehe

tehani looking out over the city....

so that was our little trip. oh and today i did my core synergistics workout and i improved in some areas and others were still really tough and i skimped on them, but i tried. i really hope to start seeing positive results from these workouts. laters!

1st Week Down....12 More To Go!!!

2008-07-06T21:30:00.000-07:00

okay week one was a bit disappointing in a way, but i'm actually proud of myself. see, i did every workout required this week but one. i missed saturday cuz we went to the beach that day. but, i did all the other workouts. the disappointing part is that i'm on a slow and steady weight gain. there's no telling whether its from muscle gain or other. but i can't discount the fact that i haven't done very well in watching what i ate. it's just hard. so, this coming week, i've really got to do better or all this hard work and killing myself with these workouts are going to be for nothing. i really don't have pictures to post....so sorry...but until i feel good about posting, you'll just have to wait and be patient. lol. 86 days to go!!! alright...laters!!!

DAYS 2 & 3 COMPLETE

2008-07-02T20:17:00.000-07:00

hello again. yesterday was actually a pretty good day! cardio x wasn't so bad since i had eaten enough that morning. i finished the whole thing and struggled here and there, but i felt SO GOOD when it was all done. i felt good about myself, and energized! later that evening, kelly and i went walking for about 45 minutes around the neighborhood. it was nice having a partner to walk with. we talked all the way there and back. it was nice. and i didn't do bad with food either, except for dinner. jeremy made chicken katsu with rice and corn. it was yum. i had way too much. and today was a little disappointing on my part. i worked out a bit later than usual. around 3:30. it didn't help that earlier i had eaten a jr. whopper meal...i know, i know. i wanted to go to mcdonalds, but didn't think koki wanted to make two trips...and when we got to the window, i looked across the street and saw mcdonalds right there. if only i had known it was there before i ordered. so let me tell you about todays workout. i did the shoulders and arms workout along with the ab ripper x. it was a nice workout. i think i worked hard and i found some excercises really tough. in time i'll master these moves...i just don't know how long that will take. i'm glad there's a different workout everyday. if not, i'd get bored i think. and tomorrows workout is yoga x. i loved this one!!! a lot of it is hard, but at the same time, i felt relaxed and really invigorated. my body right now is really tired though. the muscles in my legs are sore and my arms are tired from todays workout. i hope i can stand tomorrow. well, that's all for now. i better go, tehani's crying. next time!!!

1 day down...89 to go...

2008-07-01T02:07:00.000-07:00

YIKES! Today was tough. Not only was the workout rough, but the heat as well. My goodness!!! I felt I was baking in an oven set on the lowest temp possible, but still it was no picnic! Anyway, to tell you how day one went, it was HANG! So, todays workout was core synergistics. And basically, it's a core killer involving exercises for just about every part of your body. It's so hard for me. It's even harder because I don't really want to do it. But I know I have to if I'm going to make my deadline! I figure that the beginning is always hard and if I keep up with it, eventually it'll excite me when I see that I can actually do some of the crazy stuff they do in these workouts. I'm counting on it and looking forward to it. So that was day one! Tomorrow I have the Cardio X workout and doesn't that sound fun? I've tried that one too...never finished. But, tomorrow, I'll be sure to eat a good breakfast. Also, my sister-in-law Kelly has asked me if I wanted to go walking tomorrow. What a great idea!!! Double the calorie burn!!! So, tomorrow we'll go when she comes home from work. If I can keep up all this, I'll be able to reach my goal in no time!!! So long as I watch my food intake. Wow!!! Day ONE is done...I feel like I've accomplished so much, although it's so little. 89 days isn't so bad right? So long as I get down to what I want to be....okay, I better get to bed. I'll keep you posted!

OCTOBER 1ST DEADLINE!!!!

2008-06-30T02:00:00.001-07:00

Okay so I know how many times I've said I'd lose the weight. I haven't yet attained my goals. It's a plus that I haven't completely given up though right? I've taken my before pictures and if you think I'm posting them, GET REAL! Those photo's are for me to compare, not you. Hehe. You're not disappointed are you? Anyway. I'll be doing the P90X Lean program. If you've tried it before or seen the workout or have an idea what it's like, you're probably saying, "heh, goodluck with that"! It's intense! But, I'm up for it. So the lean program is more of a cardio program which I believe would benefit me best. While it's a less intense workout than the classic program, it's no breeze. Beside the workout, there's the P90x nutrition plan. The reason I thought it best to follow their plan, was because I understand how intense the program is because I've tried it out for a week and nutrition is so important. You'll want to be sure to get enough fuel for these workouts and at the same time, take in the right foods and in the right proportions. Unfortunately, we're kind of in a funny predicament. We're staying in town with my brother until we can get our own place. There isn't much room in the fridge for my things, so, I'll have to plan around that. I don't want to wait until I've figured it out until I start working out. So, tomorrow I start the workouts and I'll do my best to eat well and in the mean time, plan out my meals and keep in mind the minimal food storage space. I'll figure something out. Tomorrow is day one of my 90 day transformation. Oooh I'd hate to screw this one up! lol. Tomorrows workout is called Core Synergistics, focusing on the core. I'm a little worried to be honest. As I sit here blogging about my plans for tomorrow, I feel lazy and not wanting to do it. But!!!! I have to! I told myself tomorrow was the day and I'm sticking to it. I gave myself a deadline to achieve my goal and it's by October 1st! So, my 90 days fall within that time. If I miss it tomorrow, I miss my deadline. I'm the kind of person who likes to start things on the 1st day of the week. That's just me! Okay, okay...enough blogging for tonite. I'll try to keep you posted and tell you how my workouts go. until next time!!!

NEWSFLASH!!!

2008-06-11T14:18:00.000-07:00

Today in NEWSFLASH

-Koki gets hired at Watanabe Floral as a delivery guy! woohoo!!!
-I have locked myself out of my laptop and until I can get back in, I'll be using whatever computer I can find.
-Tehani is now 18 months! Soon she'll be getting married....*sniff sniff*
-I am feeling like a lazy blob. I just have this lack of energy that I'm going to blame on the time of month.

so koki got hired yesterday at watanabe floral..woohoo! that's one less kid to worry about. lol. just kidding...i'm happy he found a job so easily, not everyone gets it that easy. of course, he's trying it out. the pay isn't all that exciting at $9 an hour, but i said, at least it isn't minimum wage! now that's crazy! he started today at 7am and i'm just preparing myself for him to tell me all about his first day at work. lol. it's kinda cute actually...he gets excited about things and tells me all about it, even if it's as exciting as a birdie on the hardest hole at the course....i take that back, anytime he succeeds in something, i get excited about, but him naming all the muscles of the body, or talking motorcycles to me is a tad bit boring.

i have locked myself out of my laptop. i changed my admin password and to no surprise, was not able to log back in. i must have misspelled the password both times when i was setting it because what i actually intended it to be, was not the correct one. oh gosh, i can't believe i did that. so, i'm trying to get some software for that so that i don't lose anything on my computer because like the genius that i am, i did not make recovery discs like i was told to do.

tehani is now 18 months....i was just thinking of how fast time flies. i can't believe tehani is growing up so fast. soon, she's not going to be a baby and i'm gonna have this little girl who's gonna want to have sleepovers with her friends, and then go to the prom and even get married and then....she won't be my little girl anymore. i'll learn to let go someday, but for now....she's my little one.

Let's take a time to reflect....half the year has gone by!!!

2008-06-01T06:59:00.000-07:00

gosh, it's kind of embarrassing really! i said i'd be in great shape by my birthday...and that's come and gone...and still i haven't gotten anywhere! BUT, i'm working on it! i don't think i've done very much these past 6 months...i've got to get crackin! i'm supposed to be living retirement life at around 30! it's good to reflect halfway through the year, so in case i've wasted the first half, i still have the second half to make a difference and that way, my whole year won't be a waste. i'm still in florida, and by the way, i'm coming home tuesday! i've got mixed feelings on the whole thing....i want to stay with all my new buddies here, and yet, i want to go home and be with all my family and bestest buddies back home. i guess you can say, i win either way huh? it was fun while it lasted though. moving to the mainland is no small thing....not for me...my first two weeks here, i kept saying "I HATE THESE PEOPLE!" because they were all really rude! no kidding! but i was lucky to have friends here from hawaii...if it weren't for friends, i would have been HAPPY and all willing to go back home....oh yeah, back to my reflection...i can do much better in all areas of my life actually. of course we all can....oh the oh-so important scripture study and prayer and fhe that we've neglected....ayaya! these next 6 months, i'll do my best to make it a family tradition and habit that we look forward to....question! why is it that we tend to not want to have scripture study and prayer and fhe? why do you think? it's not like it's not fun! if you make it something you enjoy, why should it be a chore? so...how do you make it something that you enjoy doing? there's your pop quiz for the day! get back to me on that one....yes, i'm looking for ideas. could you tell? okay well, wish me luck in the next 6 months!!! here's what i want to accomplish....

regular FHE
regular family and personal scripture study
having FUN FHE's and scripture study
organize my time, my household
be consistent in all things that require consistency
reach my fitness goal before by September 30th!
spend more time doing things outside of the house with tehani
every now and then take some time for myself, doing the things i love to do, without having to wrestle with tehani...
karaoke with family and friends as often as is sensible
learn to draft patterns for sewing clothes
plan with my family the things we want to accomplish and a means to accomplish them together!
ENJOY LIFE!!!

oh i think i could go on and on with all the things i'd like to do...and i think i'll put up a list somewhere and everywhere so i'm always reminded of my dreams and aspirations....you're more likely to accomplish them if you write them down...and it gives you a sense of direction....you know where you're going, what you need to be doing, all you've got to do is figure out HOW to get there...until next time....

.:tootaloo:.

SOUTH BEACH BABY!!!

2008-05-23T20:43:00.000-07:00

ok ok.....i must say i was pretty impressed with south beach....i guess because the beach we went to before that was kinda....well, not impressive. hollywood beach had gray sand, debris, and the water wasn't crystal clear, nor was it baby friendly. it was a little too choppy and had some strong currents. south beach...was perfect! nice white powdery sand, the beach was clean...they've got all kinds of vehicles driving on the sand trying to keep it looking pristine....but the water....BEAUTIFUL! nice, crystal clear ocean....we had so much fun! we took some pictures with a friends camera...i love the people that we're here with. it's so much fun with them! anyway, tehani had a lot of fun at the beach too! she doesn't shy away from the water that much anymore. we just let her go to the water when she's ready...by the way, i have yet to develope the underwater pictures we've taken in the pools here....we got some of tehani underwater....i'll post those when i get them...and also when i find the time...lol....it's funny how i find myself busy here. oh and a quick update....looks like we're starting a dancing company here for the short time we'll be here....just to put our talents to work and make some money. it was bound to happen! anyhoots! that's the quick update!!! laters!! can't wait to come home and see everyone!!! i know tehani misses you guys....she hasn't forgotten ahonui, or jaden...or her aunties, uncles and grandparents! we miss you guys too!!! looking forward to coming home in october! much love!!!Why does she always make that face when I go to kiss her on the cheek?
Very cool! I'm planning on getting me a camera just like the one we used to take this picture!
This is James Flynn..Micah's friend. The camera belongs to him...Tehani loves him!
Have you noticed that she's got a cracker in her hand? That girl is always eating!
Me and my Litto One! She's really getting tan!

PICS FROM JADEN'S PARTY

2008-05-08T18:30:00.003-07:00

Hi again, I developed the water camera film and thought I'd share them with you all. Enjoy!!! By the way, we're doing fine here. I'm having fun...although I miss home, I don't want to come home yet. I haven't accomplished all that I've planned on accomplishing. Anyhoots!!! Enjoy the pics!!!

2008-05-08T18:30:00.001-07:00

FAMILY UPDATE

2008-04-28T09:08:00.000-07:00

We're here in Florida and I finally managed to connect to the internet. Who knows how long it's going to last. The temperature here is just about the same as hawaii, but less humid, so it doesn't seem to bad...YET. but the people here aren't very friendly. i mean, even the walmart workers (who you'd think be the friendliest) are rude. no customer service, no friendly hellos, or goodbyes, and there's definitely "How can I help you?"....it's like they all hate their jobs...so unhappy, and emotionless. yes, i miss hawaii. i know i could never live here. koki got a sale...of course he isn't proud of it because he didn't make it all by himself. i can understand what he feels...and yes the job takes a toll on ones confidence....that's why wives are so important here. support! it's key! but, we had a really good time on sunday. we had a little jam session with all the polynesians. it was really fun and nice. it was a nice release for the guys. and for us wives, we just enjoyed all the company. despite the unfriendly people, the mix up with transportation, the angry husbands....we're having a really good time. it's a really good experience. Tehani and I are still trying to get over our colds. She's out on the floor. Thankgoodness. I thought I'd do a little updating before i go clean up and shower and all that good stuff. I'll try and update this regularly....i can't say when i'll have internet yet. but anyway, take care everyone!! laters!

ooVoo me!!!

2008-03-03T20:36:00.000-08:00

so i just discovered this cool messenger thing i guess....it's called ooVoo. you can video conference call. i haven't tried it yet since i have yet to get friends to download it. it's free! it's got some cool features..check it out at http://www.ovoo.com

hope to hear from you soon!!!

change of plans....it happens

2008-02-12T20:34:00.000-08:00

well people...i've got good news and bad news...first the bad...i'm no longer on the diet. lol....it's not that i just gave it up...the good news is, our family will be saving money...it was costing so much money just to buy all the food i needed for the diet. i do plan on watching what i eat and exercise daily....but, in case you see me eating a cupcake or something....don't bite my head off...i'm allowed to! lol...time to enjoy life!!!!

DAY 1 on the diet

2008-02-05T00:15:00.000-08:00

okay...not quite what i planned on my first day....it wasn't too bad actually. i prepared a few days worth of food. i'm already wanting to eat sweets. BUT! i know i've got to stick to this, because i already told everyone i was gonna lose it by april 4th! chicken is on the menu everyday. i realized that garlic is in all my chicken recipes! and i'm starting to smell...oh no! i guess i'll lay off the garlic next week. i hope tomorrow will be better. seemed i was in the kitchen all day! not that fun...i've got tons to do, and not enough hours in a day...seriously! anyway...just thought i'd let you all know how my first day went.
TOOTLES!

countdown

2008-01-29T23:53:00.001-08:00

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My Weight Loss Goals

2008-01-29T23:33:00.000-08:00

oh gosh, i can't believe its come to this. i figure, if i tell the world that i'm going to lose weight, i'll be more apt to finish what i start. so, i'm sharing this with the world. my goal is to get down to my goal weight of 140 lbs. and/or a size 9/10 junior pants size by my next birthday which happens to be very soon. call me crazy for wanting to get it done so fast, but i think its a great birthday present to myself. i plan to accomplish this and reward myself with a new wardrobe!!! now THAT, i am really excited about. in order to accomplish this, i'm going to need your help and encouragement. i'll post regularly my progress or downfalls if it be the case. i want your input. so i'm 160 lbs according to the scale i have here. so i'll gauge my weight according to that for now. i plan to stick to the michael thurmond program for 6 weeks straight without going off plan. that's so hard, but i can do it. also, i plan to be walking early mornings 4-5 days a week for 45-60 minutes a day. this is key! also, 2 days a week, i'll be doing some sculpting. oh yeah, and i'll be drinking 100 ounces of water everyday! that's my goals!!! i should and hope to be at my goal weight and size by april 4th!!! thanks for the support!!! if i get brave enough, i'll post some before and after pics....we'll see.
aloha!!!

Welcome to our blogspot!!!

2008-01-18T13:03:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!
Thanks for stopping by our blog, it's in the beginning stages as you can see. I'll try to keep this updated. Thanks to Harm for the idea. I liked this one because its our family's very own. We don't share this page with anybody else. YAY! lol. Okay, not sure what else to say right now except that the family is doing fine. Tehani is 13 months and picking things up fast. She's a bright kid, strong personality, and an absolute joy to have. Koki is working at Turtle Bay Golf Course. Golf should be counted as a serious addiction! lol. Me, I'm trying to make things work, trying to make things happen. lol. Everyone knows how that goes.
Well, again, thanks for stopping by, and come back often. I'll be posting photos and videos soon. Laters!!!