P-D's Pastimes

MRLH Baseball

2010-03-07T17:01:00.000-08:00

MRLH home games are played at Stewart Heights Field (next to Concordia on 56th).

Sat. 3-20: 12 noon/2:30pm double header

Thu. 4-1: 3:30pm

Fri. 4-23: 3:30pm

Tue. 4-27: 3:30pm

Fri. 4-30: 3:30pm

Mon. 5-3: 3:30pm

Tyler Senior 2010

2010-02-21T17:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Tyler had his 1st session of senior pictures taken. The photographer agreed to do 2 sessions because Tyler is going to get his hair cut and I wanted to have both hair lengths in the pictures. We have only seen the 4 photos that Cindy posted to her blog and this is my favorite of the 4.

Cindy drives around Tacoma to find sites to use as backdrops. This is in an alley.

This is a garage downtown that the walls are covered in graffiti.

And then then train tracks down on Ruston Way! More pictures to come as soon as we get the disc with all the pictures!

My 2009 Fall Art Collection

2009-12-20T22:05:00.000-08:00

These are the pieces that Tyler has made for me so far this year. The color is better in this picture than in the previous post. Now Tyler has decided that for his senior project he is going to make as many bowls as he can for his school's contribution to the "Empty Bowls Project". The bowls are sold at a fundraiser (not sure exactly where this takes place) and the $ is used to feed the homeless! He is still going to donate his hair to Locks of Love with his cousin Abby- just not as his senior project.

My Treasures Made It Home!

2009-12-15T21:58:00.000-08:00

Tyler used wax on this bowl to write "mom" and then glazed over it to create this personalized piece for me!

All of the pieces he has made for me this fall. I told him I don't want to give any of them away so he is making dupilcates for a few family Christmas gifts.

MRLH Fall Art Show featuring the work of Tyler P-D

2009-12-14T19:38:00.001-08:00

Tyler had 7 pieces in the art show tonite.

Sorry I don't know how to turn the pictures.

Tyler has become quite the artist! I am excited for my Christmas presents from him this year!

Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Birthday to Cole, Mark and Daniel!

2009-11-28T12:57:00.000-08:00

Tyler, Juliano and Tommy play with their Black Friday laptops! I'm so glad they got them after waiting in line from 11:45 the night before!

Cousins Tyler, Noah and Evan.

Justin refusing to smile for a picture.

Cole with his snuggie.

Noah Mark

Daniel

Mark

The birthday boys: Daniel, Cole and Mark

Happy Halloween 2009

2009-10-31T18:41:00.000-07:00

This is our 1st year of really having nothing to do for Halloween. The boys have outgrown trick-or-treating and they are both at the high school so no Concordia Carnival for us this year either. Tyler and Zach studied for the SAT they are taking next week and now are patiently waiting for the pizza dough to rise so that they can enjoy P-D's homemade pizzas! Happy Haunting!

MRLH Hawk Spirit Day

2009-10-30T16:02:00.001-07:00

The last day of spirit week was Hawk school spirit day! Ty and Justin show some of the spirit they normally keep bottled up...

Spirit Week at MRLH

2009-10-29T15:51:00.000-07:00

This week has been "spirit week" at Mount Rainier Lutheran High School. Yesterday was "twin day". Tyler and his buddy Zach had matching MRLH soccer shirts and tan shorts and then of course Zach wore the wig to top off their outfits. Thanks for being a good sport Zach!

Aloha!

2009-10-23T23:36:00.000-07:00

James' Uncle John and Auntie Girlie & Uncle Keith came up from Hawaii for a visit.

Tyler and "Grandmaster Pagdilao"

The whole gang plus extras...

Uncle John and James

Putting James in his place... HA!HA!

Uncle John and James

Uncle John and Tyler

Uncle John and Justin

Happy Birthday Grandma Carol and Justin!

2009-10-23T20:13:00.000-07:00

We celebrated my mom's birthday and Justin's 15th birthday! Mark is so comfy here in mom's new "Snuggie".

Making a wish...

Mark and Noah are just sitting back and enjoying the party.

Mark and the pretty princess as she models the "Snuggie"

Justin got many nice gifts- like this shirt from his mother! As well as gift cards, $$$$$$ and a new cell phone. SPOILED KID!

Justin

Chocolate cake for the birthday boy.

and cupcakes and lemon bars (made by Gwen) for Grandma! It was a really fun party with the whole family! Now I just have to make it through his "friends" party.

A Day in the Life of A Dog and His Boys...

2009-09-22T20:28:00.000-07:00

Our dog Max is such a people person. He always has to be with someone- usually Justin. I guess he thinks he is guarding him here while he does his homework.

Max also loves Tyler but doesn't spend as much time with him. For example- Justin lets Max sleep with him in his twin bed...but Tyler doesn't allow Max in his room. As you can see- he does love him though.

Pooch Pool Party!

2009-09-12T23:22:00.000-07:00

Today was the 1st annual Pooch Pool Party at Stewart Heights Pool. Dogs only allowed in the pool...

Max waits not so patiently for Justin to pick up the ball to throw again.

Max would play for hours if we didn't stop him for a rest.

The official rules stated "no dog toys please" but when we got there and multiple dogs had toys and he didn't...he let us know about it! He stole the other dogs toys and barked when he didn't have any.

I went the 2 blocks to Walgreens and bought him a tube of tennis balls and then he was in heaven!

Taking a much needed break with Justin.

So happy and tired in the car on the way home. Hopefully there will be a 2nd annual party next year!

9-11-2001: Never Forget...

2009-09-11T17:42:00.000-07:00

This is a beautiful song by Michael W. Smith- perfect as we remember 9-11...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0wr8egTnYw

Happy 40th Birthday to my big brother Tim!

2009-08-29T21:04:00.000-07:00

Tim's wife Jennifer planned a really nice surprise party for him at the local Round Table Pizza. To make a long story short- it ended up not being a surprise but it was a great time.

Like father like son.

With his lovely mother.

Tyler and Justin with Uncle Tim.

Makin' his big wish!

Was it too much to ask for a nice picture of my oldest son???

Timmy and Jennifer.

Tim with his beautiful daughter Lila Grace. It was fun to see family and old friends today- we really should do it again sometime soon and not wait another 40 years! Ha!!!

Fish Boil on Horsehead Bay

2009-08-20T13:11:00.000-07:00

We were invited to the Kelly's (James' grandma Phyllis' sister & family) for a fish boil. Being that I am not a seafood eater I wasn't so sure about it all. As you can see- there was an abundance of food.

Tyler, James and Justin stand in front of the table after the first of the food had been dumped on it. I lucked out because the first dump of food had NO seafood in it. Just sausage and veggies.

Justin tries his 1st crab leg.

Tyler and Justin pose in the back yard.

Tyler with the beautiful blue hedge.

Lake Retreat Family Camp 2009

2009-08-01T11:00:00.000-07:00

Our family has carried on the tradition that my parents started when I was young of going to Family Camp at Lake Retreat every summer.

Tyler, Thad and Justin- they see each other only about 2 times a year, but as soon as they get together it is like they haven't spent any time apart!

Good times!

Justin, James, Tyler and Holly

Grandpa Clyde, Justin, Grandma Carol, Tyler, Holly and James

The boys with Gpa and Gma.

Waiting for the cardboard boat races to start.

Tyler caught in the act...

The adult banquet this year was Hawaiian themed.

Tyler and mom at the tire swing. I couldn't get him to climb in it this year.

Justin either...

That's as close as i could get them.

They played some lively games of pickleball this year. Lots of sibling rivalry frustrations were taken out on the court.

Justin

Tyler- I don't know how he could see the ball through all the hair.

Thad, Tyler and Justin watch more pickleball.

Justin played in the pickleball tournament this year.

Tyler and mom.

Taking a break from all the fun on the water trampoline.

Justin ventures out in a canoe.

Another wonderful year at Lake Retreat! We can't wait until next year- we look forward to this week all year long! Join us next year! For information go to www.lakeretreat.org

Disneyland Photo-Pass Photos

2009-07-17T23:29:00.000-07:00

I finally got the copy of the photo-pass cd from my brother Mark...FINALLY! :-)

They take some really fun shots!

With Uncle Daniel

The crazy cousins

Dreams really DO come true!

The whole gang: family friends: Jill and Frank, my parents: Clyde and Carol, my brother: Daniel, my brother and his family: Mark and Gwen- Noah, Ethan, Abby and Cole, Mark's friend: Andrew, my family: Holly, James, Tyler and Justin, Gwen's brother: Greg. Quite a group!

Us at California Adventure.

The cousins at "Goofy's Kitchen" character breakfast.

Who can resist a picture with Tigger?

Main street.

3rd Annual Anderson Island Golf Tourament

2009-07-15T17:38:00.000-07:00

This is the 3rd year for our Miller-Brewer-Duras golf tournament on Anderson Island.

Justin tees off on the 7th hole. Our house is about 1/2 way up the fairway from here.

Uncle Mark and Justin

Tyler takes a practice drive around the island with Gpa Clyde.

Cole and Tyler play video games in our room.

Ethan and James fish.

Ethan shows off his prize!

Swimming time. Justin, Cole and Noah are out on the dock.

Cole, Abby and Justin go exploring.

Noah and Justin.

All tired out after swimming.

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-15T17:13:00.000-07:00

Every 4th of July we go over to James' parents house . They live right above Ruston Way in Tacoma- which is where the fireworks display is every year.

My boy and me.

My other boy.

Cousin Evan and Tyler wait patiently for the fireworks.

Tim and Lila enjoy the fireworks.

James and Max.

Sounders!

2009-06-26T15:42:00.000-07:00

Tyler's soccer team (and families) went to a Sounders game.

We had a tailgate BBQ at the school before the game and then all piled onto the school bus for the long ride up!

Justin and me.

Justin

Aaron, Tyler (yes, with the great looking mask), Zack and Keegan

Daniel, Justin, Tristin, Aaron and Tyler

Concordia Lutheran 8th Grade Graduation!

2009-06-12T16:11:00.001-07:00

The day started with a final assembly at Concordia. Justin is in the Marimba group and they performed.
(Justin in the black shirt- 2nd from right)

Justin on the "big bass",

At 7pm the ceremony took place. (Mr. Hagen-Justin's main teacher, Mr. Bethke- CLS executive director, Justin and Mrs. Acuna- the other 8th grade teacher).

Justin with Brock and Casey

Mark and Gwen and kiddos came to help celebrate. Thanks for coming!

Mark found Justin's name on the wall of graduates.

Grandma Nadine and Auntie Michelle also came to celebrate.

After-party at Red Robin. (Kyle, Justin, Jesse and Haley)

Tyler was lucky to have his buddies Daniel and Joel at Red Robin- they both had sisters graduate.

CLS 8th Grade Trip to Victoria, B.C.

2009-06-11T15:28:00.000-07:00

Tuesday the 8th grade class at Concordia went on the traditional trip to Victoria, B.C. for the day. We met at the school at 4:50am for the bus trip to Port Angeles to get the 8:20am ferry to Victoria.

We had a tour of the parliament building at 11:00 and then we were on our own for lunch. (Justin, Kyle, Brock and Casey).

My boy and me

In front of the parliament building. After lunch we had a tour of the Royal British Columbia Museum and then we were on our own until the return ferry at 7:30pm.

Justin in an alley in Chinatown.

The gang.

Justin and Casey do not remember the Disneyland slogan "it's a rope- not a ride"!

We got back to the school at about 12:30 am. Looong day, but sooo much fun!

Lake Retreat Helping Hands Weekend

2009-06-06T19:37:00.001-07:00

Our Room: Lundgren #1

We love our camp! Every Memorial Day Weekend there is a work weekend at the camp to get it ready for the summer season.

Tyler was able to help James this year. James actually was able to install fire sprinklers in the new rec pavilion.

James on the lift.

Installing pipe.

Justin and Tommy work at getting a giant rock loose.

They also did landscaping. It was a great weekend!

Junior- Senior Prom MRLH 2009

2009-05-30T07:33:00.001-07:00

Tyler went to the MRLH prom this past weekend. We were at Lake Retreat for Memorial Day weekend and Ty and I drove home so that he could meet up with his friends at Red Robin and then head to the prom!

Travis, Tyler, Zack, Daniel, Trent and Keegan

Not sure exactly what is going on in this picture...

Haley was brave to come out with this bunch of guys!

Dinner...

Ty and Daniel.

Still more pics...

2009-05-29T17:11:00.000-07:00

Tyler and Holly's traditional picture on the boardwalk in California Adventure.

Ty's Pre-Calc teacher wanted a picture of Ty and his math book at Disneyland...

Holly and Ty in front of the drained lake in Cali Adventure.

Part of our group waiting for the park to open. Greg (Gwen's brother), Mark, Noah, Cole, Justin, Ethan, James, Daniel, Ty, and Holly. OPEN! OPEN! OPEN!

Justin and Ty.

More Disney Pics

2009-05-29T16:56:00.000-07:00

California Adventure

The cousins at Mr. Toad's Wild Ride. Good looking kids!

Don't look too excited...

See, Tyler is ready to drive! LOL!

What a flirt!

We're Back...

2009-05-29T16:38:00.000-07:00

We safely returned from our trip to Disneyland. I haven't posted anything yet because I am so frustrated with our computer...it is so slow! Anyway...Justin and Tyler had fun at the Lego store in downtown Disney.

We went to a character breakfast at Goofy's Kitchen. It was great! Good food and fun times!

Justin, Cole, Abby, Pluto, Noah, Ethan and Tyler.

My handsome gentlemen! They posed for pictures just for me- I know they really didn't want to.

James and Justin do their traditional picture with the smoke shop Indian.

And We Are Off...

2009-05-03T16:16:00.000-07:00

We leave the house tomorrow morning at 5am to begin our journey to Disneyland for a week of FUN!

1 day...

2009-05-02T08:51:00.001-07:00

2006: Tyler and Justin take a spin on King Tritan's carousel on the boardwalk at California Adventure.

Happy Birthday TYLER!

2009-04-30T19:56:00.001-07:00

Today is Tyler's 17th birthday! WOW! Time flies!

2006: 3 days...

10 days...

2009-04-23T09:37:00.000-07:00

2007: from my trip with Mark and Gwen and family.

2007: my brother Mark, his brother-in-law Greg,
Noah, Ethan and Abby!

12 days...

2009-04-21T19:34:00.001-07:00

2006: yet another family picture!

15 days...

2009-04-18T15:25:00.000-07:00

2006: A spot in the shade before getting in line for Grizzly River Run

17 days...

2009-04-16T13:40:00.000-07:00

2006: California here we come!

Indoor Soccer

2009-04-14T16:05:00.000-07:00

Tyler is playing indoor soccer with a group of guys from MRLH.

Fun times...

I think if his games were outside that it would be warmer. It is so cold in there I have to wear my winter jacket, gloves and I have my blanket.

Good thing these guys play for the "love of the game"...they are good sports and are having fun!

19 days...

2009-04-14T15:48:00.000-07:00

2006: Tyler and Justin on Tom Sawyer Island which has now become a pirate island. We can't wait to see the changes!

Easter isn't Easter without EGGS!

2009-04-13T20:38:00.000-07:00

Justin dyes Easter eggs just to make his mom happy!

Tyler too! What good boys I have...

He is Risen!

2009-04-13T20:04:00.001-07:00

Easter Sunday.

All the cousins!

Ethan and Abby celebrated their birthdays as well!

"We won't stop clapping til you dance around the room!"

Daniel making his doggie bag...

20 days...

2009-04-13T19:58:00.001-07:00

2006: Fun in the dark...

22 days...

2009-04-11T17:53:00.000-07:00

2006: Tyler poses in front of the Matterhorn!

23 days...

2009-04-10T21:14:00.000-07:00

2006: LOOK OUT!!! Justin takes the wheel.

25 days...

2009-04-08T19:19:00.000-07:00

2006: Waiting in line. This trip was in July and we did sooo much WAITING!!! That is one reason I am so excited about our trip in 25 days- the lines will be so much shorter!!!! YEAH!

26 days...

2009-04-07T17:06:00.000-07:00

2006: The boys with Rafiki- look closely and in the background you will see Grandma Carol, Auntie Ann, Grandpa Clyde, Uncle Mike and Grandpa Greg.

27 days...

2009-04-06T17:02:00.000-07:00

2006: the boys with my parents at the happiest place on earth!

28 days...

2009-04-05T16:03:00.000-07:00

2006: The family poses for a picture before heading to California Adventure.

29 days...

2009-04-04T15:07:00.000-07:00

2006: In California Adventure, part of our group was chosen to join the washboard band. Weren't they lucky? Uncle Mike, Grandpa Greg, Justin, James (in the shade with the black tank top) and Tyler (also in the shade ).

30 days...

2009-04-03T16:15:00.000-07:00

2007: I was lucky enough to go to Disneyland with my brother Mark, his wife Gwen, their 4 kids: Noah, Ethan, Abby and Cole, Gwen's brother Greg and my other brother Daniel.

Good times!

31 days...

2009-04-02T16:15:00.000-07:00

2006: On our last trip we were there for Disneyland's 50 th year celebration!

32 days...

2009-04-01T21:40:00.000-07:00

2006: James and Justin hanging out on Main Street.

2006: Tyler and Holly resting in the shade in California Adventure.

33 days...

2009-03-31T23:17:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite picture from Disneyland 2006!

34 days...

2009-03-30T17:56:00.000-07:00

A favorite stop when at Disneyland is Downtown Disney- for a visit to the Lego store!

Just think of what you could build with those Legos...

35 days...

2009-03-29T16:06:00.000-07:00

2006...our family's 2nd trip to Disneyland. We went with James' parents, my parents and James' Uncle Mike, Auntie Ann and Cousin Jordan.

Can't wait for this trip though...6 of the 8 cousins will be there. Fun!

More LEST Photos

2009-03-06T19:55:00.000-08:00

I was able to get 3 more photos of Justin at LEST from another CLS person. He has a better camera than I do and was able to get a couple action shots during a game!

Mixed Martial Arts

2009-02-21T20:34:00.000-08:00

Tyler and his buddy Zack trying out some mixed martial arts moves before the fights come on TV tonite.

James instructs Tyler (in yellow) and his friend Zack.

Trying out new moves on his dad.

James and Tyler do their thing. I don't like it, don't understand it and definitely don't see the fun in it. I guess its a "guy" thing!!!

Warrior End of the Season Parent-Player Game

2009-02-21T20:14:00.000-08:00

Justin (in the black shirt) and Grandpa Greg (next to him in white shirt) play in the parent-player (and extended family) game. The team always plays this game at the end of the season and then gives out its awards.

grandpa Greg at the free-throw line and Justin to the right of him.

James and his dad take a break from the high-intensity game.

Justin receiving his award from Coach Hagen.

Justin and Coach Hagen. It was a great season and the kids had alot of fun!

Our Last L.E.S.T.

2009-02-15T15:55:00.000-08:00

Justin's school Concordia Lutheran, is involved in a tournament in Portland, Or. every year. It involves schools from 6 states and includes basketball, cheer, music, knowledge, math, drama etc.

Justin is in the Marimba group. They are very talented and have a wonderful teacher.

They played on 2 different days and were also judged on their performance.

Justin and his buddy Kramer. The group won a "blue ribbon" !!!

Justin also plays on the AAA basketball team. Here Coach Hagen had just pulled him out of the game after falling wrong on his already sprained ankle.

#30~my boy!

They lost both games and were out of the tournament- but had a great time anyway!

CLS AAA girls basketball took 1st place so that kinda eased the pain on the boys loss.

Justin with the Marimba award plaque.

We decorated our car for the long drive down to Portland!

What will we do without LEST next year?

Home safely after the long trip. My Valentine's Day roses from James next to my birthday (last week) flowers from my girls at work.

The end of the Warrior Run for Justin

2009-02-08T21:45:00.001-08:00

The 8th grade boys and girls basketball teams dressed up for their last home game as Concordia Lutheran Warriors. Justin is 8th from the left in the back row.

The boys Ateam in their practice uniforms. This weekend will be their grand finale...LEST tournament down in Portland. Justin will be participating in the Marimba group as well as basketball (as long as his ankle sprain is better) .

85 days and counting...

2009-02-07T16:40:00.000-08:00

In just a short 85 days we will be on our way to the Happiest Place on earth! We will be spending 5 days at Disney with Mark and Gwen and kiddos, Daniel, my parents and Gwen's brother Greg!

Happy Birthday Gpa, Lila and Holly

2009-01-25T18:45:00.000-08:00

Today we celebrated 3 birthdays: Gpa, my niece Lila and mine. We partied at my brother Tim and Jen's house. The yummy cake was made by Jen.

I made my dad's favorite banana cake but Mark couldn't wait to get into it!

Lila with her Hannah Montana doll.

Papa photographs the events.

Tyler, Gma and Justin watch as Gpa opens his gifts.

Tyler and James hanging out.

Cole passed out the chocolate covered cashews.

Gma and cousin Calle.

Daniel and Lila.

Justin and James rock out with Rock Band.

Even Gma gets in on the action.

Make a Joyful Noise to the Lord!

2009-01-22T16:48:00.000-08:00

The Concordia Lutheran School Marimba group- led by Mrs. Connie Schmidt- does make a joyful noise!

Today they played for residents at the American Lake Veterans Hospital.

Justin is in his 3rd year in the group.

Normally it is only a 2 year class (to allow more students to go through it) but Justin and 2 of his friends were asked by the teacher to come back for a 3rd year.

Justin on the "big bass".

The people at the hospital were so thankful to the kids for coming to play for them.

Only 3 weeks until their competition in Portland!

WARNING!!!

2009-01-11T18:33:00.001-08:00

Justin and Tyler both had money burning a hole in their pockets at the mall today.

Tyler has always wanted one of these things.

I highly DO NOT RECOMMEND this! They leak all over even with the clamp on.

What a mess!

Warrior Basketball Team Now 4-1

2009-01-09T20:28:00.000-08:00

Last minute instructions from Coach Hagen. Awesome coach. Very positive always. He is also Justin's 8th grade teacher.

Justin going up for a 3 pointer...nothing but net!

Much needed break on the bench. #30.

Defense!!

Fouled on a shot and made one of the two free throws.

Warriors are victorious!

Uncle Daniel made it to the game! Last quarter but at least he made it!

James sporting his team shirt.

Holly too! Justin made 7 of the 30 points tonite. 2 were beautiful 3 point shots and then the 1 free throw.

Happy Birthday GPA!

2009-01-04T16:59:00.000-08:00

Today is Gpa Clyde's birthday. Although the party will be held at the end of the month, we decided to bring a cake over and surprise him after lunch. Grandpa's favorite cake is a yellow cake with white frosting and topped with bananas! My nephew Cole helped me with the bananas!

Gma Carol lit the candles which my niece Abby arranged.

Gpa making his wish...

The cake...

Justin and Tyler with the birthday boy!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T00:53:00.000-08:00

The P-D family's new year's eve tradition is to stay home and make homemade pizzas. Everyone makes their own with whatever they want on it. Justin shows us his technique for rolling out the dough.

One of the pizzas ready to go into the oven.

Tyler has to outdo us all by making a calzone. Yummy! We look forward to a new year!

Snow Shoveling is Hard Work!

2008-12-21T16:25:00.000-08:00

The boys were out again to shovel the driveway!

Tyler in his year-round attire of shorts works on the sidewalk.

Justin works at the snow and ice on the driveway as Max supervises.

Tyler, Justin and James work on the neighbor lady's driveway again. While they were still shoveling it started snowing AGAIN!

It just keeps SNOWING!!!

2008-12-21T16:15:00.000-08:00

Last night Tyler went out to see how thick the snow was and after he came back in I went to look- and what did I see? Footprints not shoe or boot prints...FOOTprints!!! Crazy kid!

Later he asked me to take a picture of him eating Lucky Charms in the snow. I said yes and followed him out to take the picture. He sat down in the snow in shorts and started eating his bowl of cereal! WOW!

P-D's Famous Coconut Balls

2008-12-21T16:04:00.000-08:00

Every year I make Coconut Balls at Christmas time. They are very labor intensive so they only get made once a year. This year Justin wanted to do the dipping of them into the chocolate. He did a wonderful job!

For those of you who may be eating coconut balls this year...he did NOT lick his finger until he was done making them!

All tired out from a long day Justin and Max (who is not allowed in the living room and follows the rules as you can see) take a little nap in the glow of the tree!

The Force was with Us!

2008-12-21T15:44:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday we were able to get through the snow to Tyler's favorite comic shop- Atomic Comics- they were having a toy drive as well as a sale. We picked out a nice Barbie and some Hot Wheel cars to bring and were treated to a "welcome" by 2 Stormtroopers, Obi Wan Kenobi and (sorry Mark and Tyler)- whoever this guy is! I'm not up on all the Star Wars characters as I should be, but thanks to Tyler I'm sure I know more than most moms!!!

That's my boy...

2008-12-18T14:17:00.000-08:00

After Justin was done sledding and playing in the snow he cleared our driveway and our single neighbor lady's driveway. What a good kid!!!

Snow Days...

2008-12-18T13:59:00.000-08:00

No school for the boys today. Snow draws the kids to the big hill at the end of our street..."dead man's hill". Justin tries out his "snowboard style" sledding toy.

Heading up the hill for another run down.

And again...

Justin and Tommy ride tandem. Tommy sitting with Justin standing behind.

The results? a wipe out!

Tough Loss for the Warriors! 3-1.

2008-12-16T16:22:00.000-08:00

Justin's team the Warriors had their 1st loss last night. It was a tough game. They led in the scoring at the beginning and then the opposing team took the lead. The Warriors came back nicely but it just wasn't enough. Good game though!

Warrior Basketball

2008-12-11T16:48:00.000-08:00

Justin's school basketball team "Warriors" are undefeated with a 3-0 record. The last 2 games have been close and hard-fought wins but they were successful each time. Justin has played well each game as well. Here is his HOME game schedule (home is at Concordia- on 56th St between Pacific and McKinley):

Monday Dec. 15- 4:45pm
Thursday Dec. 18- 3:30pm
Friday Jan. 9- 4:45pm
Tuesday Jan 20- 4:45 NOT HOME but close @ Parkland Lutheran
Friday Jan. 23- 4:45pm
Thursday Jan. 29- TBA- Tournament
Friday Jan. 30- TBA- Tournament NOT HOME but at Mount Rainier Luth. High
Monday Feb. 2- 4:45pm
Thursday Feb. 5- 4:45pm NOT HOME at MRLH

We would love to see you at some games! Join the "P-D" cheering section. Our record # of cheerers is 16 in the P-D group. Help us break our record.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-06T00:09:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Old Friends

2008-12-05T22:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I went to the funeral of my good friend Dina's dad. So though the circumstances were not good, I was able to reconnect with two of my dearest friends . Dina (in the middle) and Erika (on the right). Though we have been apart for years when we get together it is like no time at all has passed.

Warrior Basketball!!!

2008-12-05T22:34:00.000-08:00

Final score of the 1st official basketball game. We were the "guests". The jump ball went to Justin and he took it to the basket to score the 1st points of the game!

Justin at the free throw line for 2.

Time out strategy...

#30- my boy!

Throwing the ball in.

Defense!

Tis the Season...

2008-11-30T15:08:00.000-08:00

It would not be Christmas at our house without Tyler's nutcracker collection. When Tyler was very young my dad, Gpa, took Tyler to the Nutcracker ballet. He loved it! Gpa got him his first nutcracker and even got his name painted on it. From then on Tyler has gone to some production with Gpa every Christmas season. Tyler has also added a nutcracker to his collection every year. He has quite a variety: ranging from the usual looking to Darth Vader (on the left- too dark to really see him) and Homer Simpson, a snowman, santa and a Hawaiian Hula dancer.

So much to be Thankful for...

2008-11-30T14:46:00.000-08:00

I am so thankful for my family and for the fact that we are all so close to each other. The picture is kinda dark but this is Justin, Lila, Evan, Uncle Daniel, Tyler, Cole, Noah, Ethan and Abby. My 2 boys, my baby brother and my nieces and nephews.

My mom and dad and my brother Daniel...Daniel is always keeping us laughing.

We also celebrated 3 birthdays. Cole, Mark and Daniel.

Cole and Mark read his card.

Lila and Daniel and one of his gifts. His FAVORITE I'm sure...

The Happiest Place on Earth!

2008-11-28T16:33:00.000-08:00

Our 2009 trip to the happiest place on earth has been booked! Thanks Mark and Gwen for taking care of all the details! I can't wait to be able to watch the cousins together at Disneyland!

A Tyler P-D Original

2008-11-17T19:54:00.000-08:00

This is the centerpiece that I bought at the MRLH auction on Saturday night...created by Tyler!!

The art class made all the centerpieces for the tables which made my job of "decorations chairperson" very easy. I only had to get flowers to go in them and a few other little details!

Family Time

2008-11-12T19:15:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday we had a Duras family dinner at Auntie Ann and Uncle Mike's house. (L to R): Justin, Grandma Nadine, James, Johnathan and Tyler. This was a dinner in honor of Johnathan (James' brother) who has been here visiting from Hawaii and went home yesterday.

A Nice Recovery

2008-11-12T19:04:00.000-08:00

This is the 'after shot": after the drainage tube was removed. The swelling has started to go down. When they removed the tube yesterday she said everything looked really good! He still has to finish his antibiotic and go back for stitches removal in a week.

This is the "before shot": before the tube was removed...YUCK!

Get Well Wishes!

2008-11-09T11:38:00.000-08:00

My niece Lila made a beautiful Get Well card for Max!

I know he was very happy to get it Lila! It was his 1st card! Thanks!

Max is Home!

2008-11-07T12:45:00.000-08:00

James' brother Johnathan and I went to pick Max up this morning. He has a drain in his neck and we have to flush it 2 times a day. I am so glad John was there to see how to flush it because I am too squeamish! Because the drain is constantly draining and dripping Max has to be locked in the kitchen and not out on the carpet. He is not happy with this situation because he is used to being right with someone all the time. He is laying in the kitchen crying as I sit just a few feet away typing this. But he is home!!!

Successful Surgery

2008-11-06T20:48:00.000-08:00

When I took Max to the vet about 2 weeks ago his lump was about the size of a golf ball. After 2 days on the antibiotic it started to get smaller and then suddenly started to grow again. The past couple days it has been the size of a baseball. When I got home from work today it was the size of a softball. I immediately called the vet (our follow-up appt was scheduled for tomorrow) and explained what was happening and they wanted to see him ASAP. We were seen right away by the vet and Max had a high fever as well. We left him there at about 5:15pm and by 6pm the vet had called us with the results of the surgery. He is the only vet in the office and there were people in the waiting room when we left so we figure that Max must have been an "emergency" surgery to have gotten it done so quickly! They were able to drain the infection out but did not find any "foreign body" they thought they might find in there and he was still sleeping. We can bring him home tomorrow if his fever goes down! I have one sad, lonely boy here (Justin). Max shadows him the whole time he is home...follows him from room to room and lays down at his feet where ever he stops. He is a fiercely loyal dog! Get Well Soon Max!!!

Maxwell Pagdilao-Duras

2008-11-03T17:24:00.000-08:00

Our poor sweet dog is sick! Max has a lump under his chin. I took him to the vet about a week ago and they did a "fine needle biopsy" on it and the results came back the better of the two outcomes we were looking at...it was either a tumor or an infection. It is an infection. We were given antibiotics to give him for 2 weeks. The second day it seemed that the lump was going down but now it has gotten bigger than it ever has been! So if there is no change in the next week it looks like we are looking at surgery. The vet thinks that something maybe lodged in there like a piece of a bone or a stick. If the swelling would go down it could work its own way out but with all the swelling it needs to be removed! Please pray for him! and us!!!

Final Games of the Season for Hawks and Warriors!

2008-10-29T16:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the final game of the season for Justin (Warriors) and Tyler (Hawks). Justin's game was at 3:45 at Concordia. They won the game bringing their undefeated season to a close.

Tyler's last game was against his parent's alma mater TBS at 4:00. My good friend from high school (at TBS) Shannon came to the game. This was the first time I got to see her son Ryan. He is a beautiful boy! It was so good to see them both!

Both of the boys had fun this season and are looking forward to next season...not as much as I am though: both my boys will be on the SAME soccer team!!! Get ready Coach "K"!

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-25T19:13:00.000-07:00

I just dropped Justin off for a Halloween party. His 1st "boy-girl" party. We went and got his costume earlier today- he chose to be a blind referee (complete with walking stick and glasses). I think he is subconsciously preparing himself for the upcoming basketball season!!!

Happy Birthday Justin (and Gma Carol)!!!

2008-10-23T17:43:00.000-07:00

Justin turned 14 on October 11th. Gma's Birthday was October 13th.

Abby chooses lasagna and corn for dinner.

Evan and Tyler are up to something...

Lila and Gpa relax on the couch.

One of Justin's many gifts.

Justin said that he wanted $ for his gifts- Uncle Mark and clan gave it to him all in quarters!

He made out like a bandit!

Justin wanted chocolate cake and Gma wanted lemon bars.

After the party Justin fell down outside while riding his skateboard. Important lesson learned: never run through wet grass and then jump on a skateboard without drying your shoes off!

Hawks Dance the Night Away

2008-10-23T17:36:00.000-07:00

MRLH had its 1st dance of the year last Saturday. Tyler and his buddies (Lto R: Daniel, Travis, Tyler and Trinton) went as a group. They went to Red Robin for dinner 1st and then off to the dance at the school. After the dance they went to Shari's restaurant for a late night snack.

Warrior Soccer???

2008-10-23T17:06:00.000-07:00

This year the league that Concordia is in decided to go to flag football instead of soccer. One team that they played in soccer last year is still doing soccer and called CLS to set up a game even though we do not have a team.

Mr. Dressler (football coach) agreed to the game and opened it up to the girls as well.

The Warriors won the game 8-2. this was exceptional considering they had NO practices! Well done Warriors!

SMILE!!!

2008-10-18T15:27:00.000-07:00

Here it is...the long awaited picture of Tyler without his braces! He is very happy to have them off and to be able to chew gum!

CLS Jr. High Fun Night

2008-10-18T14:18:00.001-07:00

Last night was Jr High Fun Night at Concordia. Justin volunteered to collect the food donations that the kids had to bring as their ticket in.

I signed up to work as a volunteer to help out where ever they needed me. Justin signed up his dad and Uncle Johnathan to help as well.

The whole gang...Justin is in the center with the gray shirt on.

Hawks Fight On!

2008-10-18T14:08:00.000-07:00

Look at Tyler move! He went into the game about 10 minutes into the 1st half and played until half time. He did really well!

He has really improved this year and looks forward to the last 3 games of the year.

Half time chat.

Another Win for the Warriors!

2008-10-18T13:48:00.000-07:00

The Warriors have won their 4th flag football game! They are currently undefeated! Justin (3rd from left) watches from the side lines as the offense does its thing.

He started the game on defense but also got in on offense. Here he is playing center and about to hike the ball!

On defense again as he blocks his opponent. Warriors victory 24-13!

8th Grade Science

2008-10-14T20:29:00.000-07:00

Justin had a science project to do over the past 2 days. Changing a raw egg into solid form with out cooking it. You put the raw eggs (he had to do 2) into a container and fill it with vinegar to completely cover the eggs. Put the lid on the container and leave it for 24 hours. Then empty the vinegar out and replace with fresh. Leave it for another 24 hours. Then empty the vinegar and rinse the eggs. The shells disappear and the inside egg turns into this funky translucent egg shaped substance. Weird! You homeschoolers should try it! (Noah and Ethan).

One Last Look...

2008-10-06T20:41:00.000-07:00

This morning I took this picture...the last one ever of Tyler with braces! He got his braces taken off this morning. I have not gotten a picture of him without the braces yet, but I will post one soon!

Warrior Flag Football

2008-10-06T20:18:00.000-07:00

Justin's team has done well in their 1st two games winning them both! This game's final score was 56-12. Justin is the backup quarterback and did well here to escape the opponent and get the ball off to a teammate down field.

James' brother Jonathan is here visiting from Hawaii and along with Grandpa Greg and Grandma Nadine came to the game to cheer Justin on!

Great game!

GO HAWKS!

2008-10-01T19:48:00.000-07:00

This is what I saw when I pulled up the MRLH student announcement page on the website today (among other things)...

"An intense game from the new MRLH soccer team occurred yesterday at Concordia. The hawks took 12 shots on goal, but just couldn't find the back of the net. In the end, the Hawks fell 1-0 in overtime to league-leading Puget Sound Adventist. Come see the NEW Hawks this Friday, against Pagdilao-Duras rivals Tacoma Baptist. Home at Concordia, 4 pm."

Tyler has apparently been spreading the word that his parents are TBS alumni.

GO RAINBOWS!

2008-09-29T15:22:00.000-07:00

James cousin Gina is the assistant coach for the University of Hawaii's women's soccer team...the Rainbows. They were in town this past weekend to play UW's women. We all went to the game and Tyler brought his friend Daniel. They play together on the MRLH soccer team.

Justin and James...

Tyler and Holly...

This is the whole gang that came to watch and cheer on the "Bows" and Gina!!! Gina is kneeling in the front row with the dark shirt and green shorts.

On the ride home Justin fell asleep. So precious when they sleep!

Tyler made me post this picture of my sunburn. It is almost October...so I was not even thinking about the sun! (Sorry I don't know how to turn the picture.) The rest of my family with the Hawaiian blood had no trouble with the sun- they just get nice and dark!