Daniel's Graduation and Party

On June 17th it was our youngest brother, Daniel's graduation from UC Irvine. It was very exciting and we are all very proud of him. The whole family gathered together and worked hard to get a party together at Anthony and Awnie's new home. It is the perfect party home, pool and all. It was great to see everyone enjoying and celebrating Daniel's special accomplishments. Along with Daniel's graduation, it also happened to be Father's Day, our friend Edie's birthday, and Keith and Mary's anniversary, so much to celebrate!

the birthday girl hiding behind two Davids

the Valenzuela Family

the Valenzuela clan

Yeah, Tio Daniel, the grad!

Checking out the pool

Marissa with the anniversary couple

Marissa posing with the grad

Yazmin and Tio Jose made the trek from Mexico

David stealing Don Howe's hat
lots of yummy food
Marissa spent so much time in the pool, we though she was a mermaid :)
Even Anthony enjoyed time in the pool

David's Birthday - CA edition

We celebrated David's first birthday with a big bash in California. It was great to see so many of you. It was a little rough for David, he needed a nap but we made it. In the end he got the "sillys", otherwise known as the "Marissas", giggling and smiling a lot. Here are a few of the pictures.

cozy with my cousin
thanks Tia for helping with my party
my Tia Lisa
playing with Grandma Mary
So fun
I can eat this Mickey!

I've had it!

more fun with Marissa

Hanging out in CA

We returned last week from spending some time with our family and friends in California. It was a great visit, very busy with parties and graduations. Baby David did well on the flight over and it only took 4 days of waking up at 5am with him to get him adjusted to the west coast time. It was a bit exhausting for me as he wanted to only be held by me at first and in every "new" situation, but eventually he warmed up and enjoyed the arms of the rest of the family. Some of the best times were spent just hanging out at home. Anytime David was a little fussy, Marissa knew how to cheer him up. I guess she has that affect on most people :)



Storytime with Marissa



dancing to "El Raton Vaquero"

Strolling thru Fashion Island

checking out Bebsy kitty

playing at the park with Hailey

playing with Daddy in Hailey's backyard

Birthday Party - New Hampshire edition

On June 3rd we celebrated our Baby David's 1st birthday. It's amazing to think he joined the family a year ago! He brings so much joy to us, everyday doing something new. About two weeks before he turned one, David started pulling up and wanting to be walked through the house. At first he could only make it to his room, but soon he was going all over the house. He enjoys it so much, he doesn't want to stop. When I try to take a break, as this is very uncomfortable for your back, he makes himself stiff so that you can't sit him down. He really had a great time at his first birthday party. We had a few of our friends' over for food, drinks and even some Dodgers. It was nice to have people over our place, it was a bit chilly, but at least it didn't rain and we were able to play outside for a bit. David devoured his birthday cake as we were all entertained by his antics.