Something Out of Nothing

The Stanley House at Stanley Ranch

2011-09-23T03:00:00.000-07:00

The first part of our tour began at the Stanley House, home of Agnes Stanley, the first person to be born in Garden Grove, and her family. You can see this house on Euclid Avenue as you drive by. This post is more about the details than room photos--those will come later. I'm not a fan of Victorian homes, but I will say that the home was brighter on the inside than I imagined.

Armilyn and Alex trying out the old pump organ

Alex is fascinated by the workings of an old, hand-cranked washing machine

Detail of an ornate door hinge

The entire tour of the ranch lasted 2 hours, but we spent almost the entire first hour in the Stanley House. That's how much stuff there was to see!

Stanley Ranch Firehouse

2011-09-21T03:00:00.000-07:00

At the Stanley Ranch, we saw a reproduction of an early firehouse, one of the two non-original buildings at the Ranch. It was full of a ton of vintage fire fighting gear and memorabilia.

Walt Disney's Garage at Stanley Ranch

2011-09-18T21:47:00.000-07:00

On Sunday we paid a visit to Stanley Ranch in Garden Grove. The ranch is actually a historical district anchored by the Victorian home of Agnes Stanley, the first person born in Garden Grove. There are many historical buildings from the city that have been moved to the site, but in this post we will focus on the garage that Walt Disney began his career in California at.The garage was not originally in Garden Grove, but donated to the historical society by friends of Disney when the original location was slated for demolition. Surprisingly, the Disney studio nor Disneyland or the city of Anaheim wanted the structure.It's a simple garage from the early 1900s, that is roughly 10x25 feet, just enough to get 1 car and some extra storage room. There are cases with memorabilia from a Disney fan club inside, and they hold meetings there every so often.

A projector from the nearby Gem Theatre. Not Disney-related, but from the same era.

Walt overlooking a model of 1955 Disneyland.More from the Stanley Ranch in future posts. We had a 2-hour tour of the place and took lots of pictures.

Summer is Here!

2011-07-04T09:10:00.000-07:00

On July 1, we headed over to the Great Park to try and ride the balloon again. Unfortunately all the reservations were taken and standby didn't look good (no standbyes got on that night).

They added a lot of landscaping, playground, and a carousel since the last time we were there. The balloon has internal illumination, so it glows at night, very pretty, though my iPod camera doesn't do night shots very well. The worker said we had to get there before the flights started in order to get a reservation.

Kites & Crafts

2011-04-21T08:14:00.000-07:00

Recent adventures to watch kite surfing at a local beach and Earth Day crafts in Newport's Back Bay.

Tilt Shift pics

2011-03-13T09:20:00.001-07:00

Got the Tilt Shift Generator app for my iPod and have been taking some cool pics with it. Here are the best.

At the mall:

Outside my work:

On our afternoon walk:

More Valentines

2011-03-09T03:00:00.000-08:00

Will you be mine?

I was at the store with Leila and she saw someone with a little puppy and had to hold it. Sweetness!

OC Art Museum Kid's Days

2011-03-06T19:35:00.000-08:00

For the months of February and March we took advantage of the free museum days for families.

Alex and Leila really enjoyed the arts and crafts.

There are so many activities for the kids, time just flew by.

Alex practicing drawing. Just trying to bring his inner artist out.

David watching the kids paint.

Leila's Valentines box for her Mommy.

The two of them making a cool bag from paper streamers.

Their smile says it all.

Alex doing very well following instructions.

I see a Van Gogh, don't you?

A little Frida in the making?

We danced the day away!

Outside the museum - the kids are alright.

Alex and Leila using their cousin super powers to hold up the pillar.

Climbing trees is fun.

Enjoying the California sunshine!

David and kids

2011-03-06T10:03:00.001-08:00

David catching up with his niece Jasmine and new nephew Jose (aka Grove)

Alex playing Angry Birds and Jasmine organizing her cosmetics. LOL!

Oh the difference between boys and girls!

Laguna with my new friend

2011-03-06T09:51:00.000-08:00

Spent a day with Alex and my new friend Tamara who lives in Laguna. She took us around the beach and some of my old haunts.

On another evening, I went out with her to the art walk and Seven Degrees to check out a band play. We also ate at two great places Brussels Bistro and The Cottage who makes amazing pancakes. I was sad to discover that Artisance, our favorite home store closed down.

Hanging out with Alex

2011-03-06T08:48:00.000-08:00

Father and son time at the park yesterday.

Valentine's Gentleman

2011-02-11T08:19:00.000-08:00

Because there's no school on Monday, today Alex's class celebrated Valentine's Day. We got him a little dressed up for the day.

Dear Santa...

2010-12-17T23:41:00.001-08:00

"Phone and talking phone" refer to walkie-talkies he was playing with at our Christmas party.

Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary

2010-12-12T19:32:00.000-08:00

I was watching an old Charles Kuralt dvd and he did a story back in the 70s about a lady who created a bird sanctuary in Modjeska Canyon, which is off of Santiago Canyon Road running between Orange and Lake Forest. Turns out the place still existed, is now called the Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary and run by Cal State Fullerton. It's free to visit, so we went up there on a slightly rainy Saturday.

I've always heard of Modjeska Canyon, but never knew it was so narrow and quite long. There were a lot of houses along a road barely wide enough for two cars. It was almost like being in the mountains with out the high altitude.

A little breakfast before we head up to the wildlife sanctuary

The sanctuary comprises 12 acres of the canyon, almost at the end of the road. A creek runs through part of the preserve, though judging by the size of the river bed, it probably is scary during heavy rains.

Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary from unitedstyle on Vimeo.

To Infinity and Beyond

2010-11-30T21:20:00.000-08:00

Playing dress up.

Rock-Rock-Rocket, to the top!

NASA are we clear for landing?

Art or Bust at the Kid's Museum

2010-11-29T15:06:00.000-08:00

For Thanksgiving weekend 2010 David and Alex

had the week off and we went to San Diego.

He Alex tries sculpting with clay

as well as bubble making.

Stuffed animal parts like Dr. Suess's characters were on display.

Inside the big wooden trojan horse.

Alex just like his Daddy checking out the graphics and fonts.

A cool ride on a chariot without horses.

Zoom Zoom!

2010-11-23T19:06:00.001-08:00

Got some free tickets to the OC car show from my Pops.

We also went to the local beach car show.

Some sweet rides!

That's where we want to be, livin' in

2010-11-23T18:54:00.000-08:00

An artist friend of mine invited me to the Beverly Hills Art Show.

Mr Nix and mini Nix

It's almost like being in LOVE.

Alex deciding if he wants to buy the art sculpture,

He likes the tree better but it won't fit in his room.

It makes for a great jungle gym.

Giant tulips grew before our very eyes.

Alex at the Paley Center for Media.

Saw lots of paparazzi on our walk down Rodeo Drive

but it was for the black and yellow Bugatti.

The highlight was David meeting Jack Taylor.

http://www.jacktaylorthemovie.com/

Trick or Treat Halloween Highlights

2010-11-23T18:29:00.000-08:00

It has become a yearly tradition to see what Roger's Garden has in store

for Halloween.

Found this astronaut costume the day of Halloween at 4pm.

Earlier in the day there was a local retailer

had an arts and crafts booth for the kids.

We also went to another pumpkin patch

one with games and rides

The face of satisfaction.

Around the neighborhood at David's parent's house.

Let's just say that David and I enjoyed all the candies that Alex isn't allowed to have.

Papa's Birthday

2010-11-23T18:25:00.000-08:00

My Papa celebrated his 70th Birthday this year.

He came by our place and we baked him a mini cake.

Alex of course couldn't wait: sang, blew out the candle and took a big bite.

Foodie

2010-11-23T18:22:00.000-08:00

We've been checking out the local farmers markets which now include the food trucks.

Alex in his rain gear posing next to a cool looking food truck.

Monster Mash

2010-10-24T10:32:00.000-07:00

The Great Pumpkin

2010-10-18T10:11:00.000-07:00

October is one of our favorite times of the year.

This year we visited Tanaka Farms for the first time.

Enjoying the view on the hay ride.

It was hot as heck outside that's why I am in my t-shirt.

Alex in the running through the field and

the maze in search of the Great Pumpkin.

There's the great pumpkin!

Come home with me! Alex thought it was the scarecrow in Wizard of OZ.

Forever 29

2010-10-18T10:07:00.001-07:00

My birthday at a local Malaysian food restaurant.

Selamat Hari Jadi!

School News

2010-10-18T10:04:00.000-07:00

Another sign that our son is growing up.

Back to school. Alex first day with his teacher.

Alex is a little shy about his front teeth missing. We think he looks so adorable.

All work and no play?

2010-10-18T09:57:00.000-07:00

Fall is in full swing beginning with a little overtime.

One Saturday, we went to David's work. My hubby working hard.

Alex helping Daddy out by watching one of his shows on the computer.

Hey - get back to work Mr. Nix! Alex knows how to mix business with pleasure.

HB Central Park Concert Summer 2010

2010-10-18T09:42:00.000-07:00

An orchestra playing big band style music entertained the crowd.

Alex was distracted and wanted to play with the kids.

Here he is playing with the first Fall leaves.

Thank you God for a great Summer!

You belong in the Zoo

2010-10-18T09:24:00.000-07:00

Highlights of Summer 2010. A day at the Santa Ana Zoo.

The train ride around the zoo.

Keeping a close distance - do llama's spit?

David posing by the waterfall to keep cool.

We love those windmills.

A little monkey business in the cage.

Cool camel rides - but Alex preferred to watch.

Summer vacation is ending

2010-08-31T08:12:00.000-07:00

2 more days until school starts.

Let's give them something to blog about

2010-08-28T22:14:00.001-07:00

We finally made it out to Laguna Beach and the Festival of the Arts, where the Bright Sun painting Alex did was featured in a Junior Artist Exhibit. You may remember a few months ago, this painting was at MainPlace mall in Santa Ana with a bunch of his classmates' work as part of another children's art exhibit.

Well, this exhibit was much smaller, so Alex was one of only 2 people from his school selected. How awesome is that?!

Unfortunately, Alex was a bit of the tempermental artist today as we visited with David's parents and aunt. So he was a bit grumpy.

We tried to go last month with Mom and Tante Hanna, but Laguna Canyon Highway was jammed so we gave up and headed to San Juan Capistrano instead. This time we headed out before 10am to beat any crowds, which worked. As a featured artist, Alex got free admittance plus five guests, so everyone got in free!

Alex's sun is on the top row next to the 1st grade sign

Pages from the exhibit program. Alex is the second artist listed.

That was a good drum break

2010-07-12T05:00:00.000-07:00

Alex has been taking drum lessons every Friday for the past 4 weeks. Here's a little peek as the instructor helps him do some beats and fills.

Jeff, Alex's drum teacher is also a first grade teacher.

Alex is livin' his School of Rock dreams.

Kayaking in Newport

2010-07-11T10:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we decided to try kayaking in Newport. Southwind Kayak offers rentals right where PCH meets Newport Bay. It was $20 an hour for a 2-person kayak, but since Alex looks to be under 40 pounds, he could go in the middle. We set off on a cloudy afternoon, but that was fine as it kept us from getting too hot. The rental place recommended heading into the harbor first, as we would have the wind to our back on the return trip, when we were more tired.

I sat in front and Alex sat on David's lap in the back. Alex tried to row a few times, but he didn't really have any power, so David rowed and Alex just enjoyed the view. Though the harbor wasn't that busy, we stuck to the side, looking at all the mansions and their fancy boats. It took us about a half-hour to reach the main channel a half-mile away (where the wedding boats cruise) then we turned around and headed back for the bay. We cruised in there for a little while, not getting too far and headed back. It was tiring but a lot of fun for an hour.

After we were done, we headed next door to this little floating fish market. The outside looked very "yaaarrrr!" like an old sea captain. We bought a filet of halibut for under $5 and went home and fried it up. Yummy!

Another Independence Day

2010-07-05T18:00:00.000-07:00

The day after our nation's Independence Day, we celebrated one of our own, as Alex rode his bike for the first time without training wheels. We still had to help him get started most of the time and ran after him just in case, but he was all smiles as he rode around the park. Between this and starting drum lessons 2 weeks ago, he's having a pretty big summer. Next step, swimming without a vest.

An Artist in the Making

2010-06-20T16:25:00.000-07:00

Our little Alex was chosen as one of the lucky students selected by Very Special Arts to display his work at a local mall as well as be in Laguna's Festival of Arts. Our family was given five free passes to attend this summer. What can I say? Art runs in the family, but Alex already knew that (yawn)...tell me somethin' we don't know.

Our sunshine boy.

Fashion Frontier

2010-06-20T15:29:00.000-07:00

Our fashion show production class served up a nice summer fashion show titled "Fashion Frontier" on June 9. I was part of the awesome visual team who also created a magnificent window display and stage design. The whole class did a terrific job "Yeee-haw!" Ya'll enjoy the highlights:

FV Classic Car Show

2010-06-19T18:41:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we checked out a classic car show in Mile Square Park.

Alex, the (fire) engine inspector

If you haven't guessed, this was the 33rd Hudson built.

Alex got a chance to sit in a real drag racing car.

Alex's 8th Birthday

2010-05-25T08:17:00.001-07:00

Last week was Alex's 8th birthday. On his actual birthday, we celebrated with just the 3 of us.

Since we have been busy every weekend in May, we decided to keep his party small, with just family and a few friends.

Music Monday--The Beatles

2010-04-13T07:08:00.000-07:00

Yeah, it's late, but we're busy doing taxes.

Music Monday--OK Go

2010-04-05T05:00:00.000-07:00

OK Go is famous for their catch videos, like the Treadmill one that was a sensation a few years ago. Their latest song, "This Too Shall Pass" has 2 great videos:

and the marching band version

Spring has sprung

2010-03-27T06:31:00.000-07:00

It's finally arrived!

Music Monday--Louis Armstrong

2010-03-22T18:48:00.001-07:00

I guess they have been learning this at school, as Alex has been singing this for the past week.

Humble Beginnings

2010-03-19T21:36:00.000-07:00

When we were first dating, Armilyn gave me a small Super 8 roll of film. It showed a very young Armilyn dressed as a flower girl for a wedding. It's special to our family as it is the only film she has of her life as a child in the Philippines. So in 1998, I had a guy transfer it to video and add some music since there was no sound. The oh-so-cool opening effects were added by the guy. Armilyn still says it's the best Valentine she has ever received and is patiently waiting for me to top it.

Music Monday--Nouvelle Vague

2010-03-15T07:47:00.001-07:00

Music Monday--White Stripes

2010-03-08T06:00:00.000-08:00

A great video

Music Monday--The Traveling WIlburys

2010-03-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

In the late 80s, a few rock legends got together to form one of the first supergroups, The Traveling WIlburys. One of their first singles was the classic, "Handle Me With Care." Shortly after the album was released, one of the members, Roy Orbison died. Luckily this classic music survives.

More Traveling Wilburys on their YouTube channel

I have it...

2010-02-25T14:36:00.001-08:00

I just can't remember where I left it.

Music Monday--Jurassic 5

2010-02-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

Old-school hip-hop that's not so old. "What's Golden" by Jurassic 5.

Valentinediego

2010-02-20T15:59:00.000-08:00

For Valentine's weekend, we ended up taking a trip down south to San Diego for a family function on Saturday. My parents got us connecting rooms at the Marriott Marina in downtown, so it was them, us with Alex, and my sister, her fiance, and daughter.

Alex being a little silly before we left.

On the way down, we stopped at the LUX Art Institute in Encinitas. It is a small facility, but a beautiful, modern building on a gorgeous hillside plot.

The family thing was at a buffet right on the Mexican border--seriously, if you tripped you'd be in Mexico. I got a chance to see my cousin's daughter, who is only a few months old. Alex got a chance to clown around with the kids.

Afterwards, we headed to the hotel. My sister's daughter, Jasmine, was ooohing and aaahing at the Cinderella carriages that she could see from our balcony. They were going around the Seaport Village, next to the hotel. Well, later that night, David and I went for a stroll and found out how much a ride cost, $40, which is not too bad if you have enough people. When we got upstairs around 10pm, the kids were still awake. So we took them down and had a ride.

We only had David's camera phone, so the pictures didn't come out to bright or clear (there was cobblestone). But Jasmine loved it. The driver told her that it was supposed to be his night off, but Cinderella called and asked him to go and wait for a girl named Jasmine and to give her a ride in Cinderella's personal carriage.

The next morning, that's all Jasmine could talk about. Here she is talking to David and Alex on the balcony.

Me and one of my Valentine guys.

I wonder where Alex gets it:

Before we headed home, we went to Cabrillo National Monument, on the tip of the peninsula overlooking the Pacific and San Diego Bay. Here's a few shots:

Music Monday--Andrew Garcia

2010-02-15T07:25:00.000-08:00

A week or two ago on American Idol, Andrew Garcia appeared and gave a little tribute to departed judge, Paula Abdul. His version of "Straight Up" made you think, "Hey! That song is actually pretty good."

Music Monday-Alyssandra Nighswonger & Nouvelle Vague

2010-02-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

Saw Alyssandra perform at an exhibit at my friend's art gallery:

High on a Mountaintop

2010-02-06T08:24:00.000-08:00

In mid-January, we went with Miki and Tkay up to her aunt's cabin in Idyllwild. We had never been to there before, and we drove through parts of Riverside and Perris that we didn't know existed.

For going up to the mountains, the journey was pretty easy compared to other local mountains. We left before the sun came up, so that Maia would be sleeping and not get carsick. So we arrived at the cabin before 9am, just in time for breakfast.

The cabin is huge. We couldn't even fit it in the frame of the camera. It's around 2 years old and has 4 bedrooms--1 master suite on 1 side of the house, and the other 3 spread on 2 levels on the other side. There is a great room in the center with the kitchen, big screen tv and pool table.

There was no snow, as we were at 5500 feet and it hadn't snowed for a few weeks. Though there was a week's worth of storms coming as we left.

My phone somehow erased all of my pictures before I could download them, so all we have are a few that David took on the first morning before he got sick.

Later in the morning, the dad's took the kids up the street to look at a fire truck.

Can you smell the fresh air?

Behind the house is a ravine, with a small creek running through it. We all went down to have a look.

Right after the picture above, Alex step in the water.

We had a great time and hope to visit one time when there is some snow.

Fun With Hats!

2010-02-05T18:12:00.000-08:00

Whenever I babysit Leila, one of the things she loves to do is play dress up. I have a bunch of costume jewelry, old hats and other stuff that she loves to put on and parade around. This time she just wanted a hat, and Alex joined in the fun. David took some photos of the two goofing around.

Here is a tip we found out on getting kids to smile. If you have a fancy camera with a digital display that swivels out, turn the display around so that the person being photographed can see themselves. Alex usually doesn't want to smile for my camera phone, but when he sees himself on the display on David's camera, his inner ham comes out.

Music Monday--Glee

2010-02-01T08:47:00.000-08:00

Glee. Where do I begin? We both like watching the non-singing parts as the story is pretty funny and well written, though it does get quite campy. And Jane Lynch is hilarious as the coach of the cheerleaders. But sometimes when they start singing, it can pull me out of the story and sometimes make me cringe. What especially pulls me out is how the performances never sound live, but lip-synched, even though I know that the actors are the actual singers.

Regardless, it's still a good show, returning in April, that has done some catch versions of popular songs.

The Little Man

2010-01-26T22:58:00.000-08:00

For some reason, Alex's school picture was not delivered with the rest of the class last fall. Today we finally got it. Isn't he handsome?

Music Monday--Carla Bruni

2010-01-25T07:51:00.000-08:00

Carla Bruni, former supermodel and now First Lady of France, became a successful folk-singer in between those two jobs. An Italian by name, she lived in France as a child, so she has that tri-lingual thing down. Here she is singing "Quelqu'un m'a dit" which I believe translates to "Somebody told me".

Fashion Cards

2010-01-23T12:48:00.000-08:00

I started a separate blog for my Fashion Cards, posting images of past and present cards. Check it out.

post by Armilyn

Music Monday--Ramon Sampson

2010-01-18T10:27:00.000-08:00

Happy Martin Luther King, Jr. Day!

A slightly different Music Monday today. Guitar Center runs an amateur drummer competition every year, holding competitions in their stores, regional finals, and then finally culminating in a national Drum-Off in Los Angeles every January. Last Friday was the most recent Drum Off at the Wiltern Theatre. Ramon Sampson from Tennessee won. He's all of 19 years old. Maybe in 10 years Alexander will be performing.

When It Rains, It Pours

2010-01-15T09:09:00.001-08:00

Here is the Fashion window display that we did in class including pictures of my Fashionista classmates in the rainy day weather.

David was kind enough to make the sign for my class.

My classmates Diana, Vanessa, Robert, Cristina, Emilio, Tara and Emilo. My teachers Ms. Papillon and Ms. Rodriguez.

Blue Gold The Movie

2010-01-13T08:49:00.000-08:00

Ran across a trailer for Blue Gold: American Jeans which documents American (new and vintage) denim industry, from vintage collectors and re-sellers to designers. Looks interesting, but the movie website doesn't really indicate when it will be released.

Blue Gold movie website

Music Monday--Alicia Keys

2010-01-11T08:31:00.000-08:00

Alicia Keys performing "Empire State of Mind (Part 2)" live

Music Monday--The Cosby Show

2010-01-04T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Cosby Show is one of my all-time favorite TV shows, and viewing early episodes years later, it's amazing to see how well the show holds up. The fashion is obviously dated, but the writing, acting and jokes are really timeless.

Music was a big part of the show, as Cosby was a big jazz fan and had numerous guest stars from jazz and musical greats. This clip presents the classic lip-sync rendition of "The Night Time is the Right Time" by Ray Charles as done by the Huxtables for Cliff's parent's 49th anniversary:

The next year, for the grandparent's 50th, they did a little James Brown. Theo and Rudy pretty much steal the show:

Art @ the Museum

2009-12-29T08:15:00.000-08:00

Las Posadas @ MOLAA. Free Courtesy of Target.

Festive cut-outs of mylar wishing us good cheer.

Perfectly manicured plants - an inspiration for your garden.

Aren't you jealous of California sunshine in December?

One of the sculptures in the atrium.

Cacti and palm trees - so California.

Spy glass mirror reflect Alamitos Street.

Origami snowflakes make us smile.

Alex at the entrance sculpture garden.

Inside the atrium, a giant fork and knife remind you to eat.

Gorgeous succulents landscape the museum.

Alex just can't help himself when he sees water.

Alex holds an adorable pose in his Dan Zanes Nueva York shirt.

Thank you Target for supporting the arts!

Let it snow, Let it snow, Let it snow!

2009-12-28T21:08:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago @ the Soco District in Fullerton.

Let it snow in Southern California!

Alex and about 100 other 7 and unders had

a great time throwing the snowballs in all directions.

We walked by this photography studio but it was closed

just loved the way they decorated the studio.

Next stop was Tranqil Tea House on Wilshire.

Nice little modern tea place with exotic teas and gifts

including fantastic French macaroons.

Next to the restaurants in SOCO are antique shops,

they happen to have a mini outdoor sale. My current love is vintage books.

Music Monday--Badly Drawn Boy

2009-12-28T09:25:00.000-08:00

One of our favorites, Badly Drawn Boy singing "The Time of Times"

Merry Christmas 2009!

2009-12-24T17:30:00.000-08:00

I Feel Like Dancing

2009-12-23T15:26:00.000-08:00

Music Monday--Holiday Chipmunk Edition

2009-12-21T10:29:00.000-08:00

The original Alvin & The Chipmunks

Ruiz Family Visit 2009

2009-12-15T21:33:00.001-08:00

My cousins visiting from Barcelona, Spain to introduce us to their beautiful daughter Paloma.

This is my little niece Paloma aka Sweet P and her gorgeous Tita Army.

Sweet P with her Lola Tina.

The cutie pies Leila and Alyssa.

Justine and my sis JC - Ancheta smiles!

Lougene's motherly instincts kick in.

My Papa, Lou, Leila, Auntie Rose & Uncle Abraham.

Rob and Fernando enjoying Auntie Tina's cuisine.

The Fabulous Four: Justine, Kim, Linda and Chrissie.

The Mommies: Tina and Amabella

The Nix Clan: Opa Edu and Oma Dorothea with Alex

Fernando, Justine and Paloma - we love you and miss you already!

Remember: There is no place like HOME. Click your heels Paloma!

Music Monday--Holiday Edition

2009-12-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

U2's version of "I Believe in Father Christmas"

All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth

2009-12-09T08:30:00.000-08:00

The morning that Alex lost his first tooth I happen to take a photo of him in his vintage jacket because it was cold outside. Little did we know that he would loose his tooth that afternoon.

BEFORE

AFTER

Ms. K called me and told me that Alex was crying and was very upset about loosing his tooth. I had to pick him up from school. Also, he was not happy that the Tooth Fairy gave him a piece of paper (dollar bill) and not coins. However, in the days to follow, he loved the attention and was coming up to people to show them his winning smile.

In Loving Memory of Jose B. Orfrecio

2009-12-07T21:20:00.001-08:00

This is our Uncle Jo. We want to thank Auntie Lita and Joann for sharing him with our family. Over the past two years we have grown close to Uncle Jo spending Sundays together for Bible study at my parents (Ancheta's) house.

Uncle Jo was a passionate man who Loved God and Christ Jesus. We will never forget him.

Jose B. Orfrecio

March 19, 1953 – November 30, 2009

Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it.—Acts 28:28

Music Monday--School of Rock

2009-12-07T07:15:00.000-08:00

One night Alex woke up about an hour after going to bed for the night. This scene was coming on, so we let him watch it. After it was finished, all he said was, "that was cool."

J is for Jessica Hische

2009-12-02T09:16:00.000-08:00

essica Hische is an amazing graphic designer working in Brooklyn. Her specialties are lettering and illustration, as you can see by the fancy J she illustrated at the beginning of this post. This and many other beautiful letters can be seen at the Daily Drop Cap, one of Jessica's sites. Her blog and portfolio sites are also worth a look. Browsing through her work, I realize that have admired her work for years without remembering her name. But of course, I have trouble remembering what I had for lunch 2 days ago, so that's not too surprising.

Here are a few examples of her work from her blog:

all art by Jessica Hische

"J" illustration via Daily Drop Cap by Jessica Hische

post by David

Long Beach Antique & Flea Market

2009-12-01T11:37:00.000-08:00

Every 3rd Sunday, Long Beach hosts a flea market in Veteran's Stadium near the LB Airport.

Alex really enjoyed exploring the sea of stuff.

I love the design of these vintage books.

If I had the cash and room in my car, I would have bought this folding table for $60.

When we own our boutique someday, we will definitely want one of these. Ca-Ching!

Alex gravitated to this expensive collection of vintage robots. You break it, you buy it!

The Custo Barcelona Bag that David spotted on a woman. I asked her where she got it and since I raved about Custo so much, she gave it to me for FREE! Thank you Sherry!

Giant Christmas ornaments from the Philippines hung above this booth. I want them!

And last but not least, a perfect compliment to Dad Nix's outdoor bar would be this chuck wagon for $1,500.

Paris in A Cup

2009-11-30T07:08:00.000-08:00

Last week the girls had their annual tea party @ Paris in a Cup.

What's nice about this place is you can order a la carte.

Ladies who lunch: Mom, Tane Leen & Tante Friedl.

Mouthwatering chocolates greet you at the entrance.

Mom & me - it's like we're in Paris!

Fine dining at its best with Mom & Lisa. Christian Lacroix Evian pour moi?

The chic wall decor gave us inspirations for our own homes.

I always like to take a wacky picture. That's me on the right!

The femme fatales Denise, Jen and me.

I've never been to Paris, but you can sure bet I am saving up for a trip!

Until then, I'll get in the Parisian spirit by listening to:

1. Sympathique--Pink Martini from Sympathique

2. Voulez Vouz?--Arling & Cameron from All-in

3. Obsolete--M.C. Solaar from Prose Combat

4. Le temps perdu--Carla Bruni from Comme si de rien n'était

5. Ca plane pour moi--Plastic Bertrand from Ca Plane Pour Moi *this is the extra track. It sounds like a French Beach Boys song

6. Dansez-Vous--Pink Martini from Hang on Little Tomato

7. Quelqu’un M’a Dit--Carla Bruni from Quelqu’un M’a Dit

8. I Love Paris--Les Negresses Vertes from Red, Hot + Blue

9. Mon vieux Lucien--Jill Argot from Words of Love

10. Le chant des coquelicots--Amelie-les-crayons from Le chant des coquelicots

11. Temps Mort--MC Solaar from Prose Combat

12. Autrefois--Pink Martini from Hang on Little Tomato

13. Foux du Fafa--Flight of the Conchords from Flight of the Conchords

14. Je cherche un homme (I Want a Man)--Eartha Kitt from Something's Gotta Give soundtrack

15. Au Revoir--Flight of the Conchords from Flight of the Conchords

Music Monday--Pink Martini

2009-11-30T07:06:00.000-08:00

One of our favorite bands, Pink Martini, performing "Hey Eugene" on Letterman last year

If you haven't figure it out by now, Alex also sings this song too. He pretty much sings all the Music Monday songs.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY

2009-11-28T01:00:00.000-08:00

With LOVE Always, Armilyn & Alexander

Birthday Highlights from Thanksgiving (Thursday - Saturday):

Thanksgiving at Mom & Dad Nix's house.

The family playing Apples to Apples game - Oom Sam won!

The morning of David's Birthday, we walked at Shipley's Nature Center.

Alex fascinated by the remote control cars going 60 mph.

A dirt track sits right outside the nature center where people race their hot wheels.

Our little soiree for David. Great tapas style eating.

Kyrin performed a little guitar solo for David.

Sweet P getting sleepy from our party - apparently not enough action for her.

Our dear friend Miki with Paloma - she's such a natural mommy.

My Chicks Clique girlie Laura came for a visit.

Uncle Moses in town for the Holidays.

The boys in the family: Moses, Fernando and David.

Our yearly tradition of visiting Santa @ Rogers' Garden.

Alex checking out the topiaries and train.

Mr. Nix posing by the poinsettias at the age 37.

Miki looking chic like she just stepped out of the Chalet.

T-kay is up to something behind those green specs.

Kyrin & Maia in line to see Mr. Clause.

A toast to my husband and to Miki & T-kay for introducing me to him!

The Gang being silly as usual. Happy Birthday David!

Face Formers face painting

2009-11-27T16:44:00.000-08:00

I have just begun working with my friend Brenda's company Face Formers. I love it so much. All those art lessons and color theory classes I took years ago are now paying off. It's much like painting on canvas. David designed the logo for Face Formers and the hummingbird is a sample of one of my first best designs.

Brenda is the genius behind this company. This is her at work at her son Zion's birthday back in August 2009.

I especially love Brenda's butterflies and it's probably the most requested by girls.

Brenda's older son Tyce came up with the business idea as well as the name of the company - an entrepreneur in the making.

This was taken during a practice session at our place.

Here is my frog design. We were practicing paintings that boys would like.

Fellow face painter Julie rocks the butterfly wings. More pictures to follow soon.

Mr. Turkey

2009-11-26T11:04:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all our family and friends!

Thanksgiving 1978

2009-11-26T08:47:00.000-08:00

I have heard the audio from this story many times, but never seen the video until today. A classic Charles Kuralt report on the Chandler Family's Thanksgiving from the CBS Evening News in 1978.

Last Thanksgiving, CBS checked back in with the family to see how they are doing. Just fine it seems:

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Music Monday--Melody Gardot

2009-11-23T06:56:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite new artists is the singer Melody Gardot. She has a beautiful voice that in time will put her up there with the great jazz vocalists. A victim of a hit-and-run accident a few years ago, she needs a cane and requires those dark glasses due to light sensitivity, but as you can see, that hasn't stopped her from making great music.

"Baby I'm A Fool" live on some Scandanavian tv:

and a bonus, her version of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"

Music Monday--Joss Stone

2009-11-16T06:50:00.000-08:00

Joss Stone and Common "Tell Me What We're Gonna Do Now"

Alex sings this one too.

Music Monday--Ray LaMontagne

2009-11-09T09:24:00.000-08:00

Heard this one on a podcast by a couple that selected it as their first dance at their wedding. I immediately bought it and burned it as part of our 10th anniversary cd that I gave to Armilyn (last week's "Love That Girl" was right after this song)

"You Are The Best Thing" by Ray LaMontagne. When I told her it was a white guy singing, she couldn't believe it. Yes, Alex has started singing this song too.

Fullerton Flora

2009-11-07T22:55:00.000-08:00

After our smashing good time at the pumpkin launch, we walked across the CSU Fullerton parking lot to the Fullerton Arboretum.

GQ Project Upgrade

2009-11-07T08:33:00.001-08:00

Almost every month in GQ, they have a column called Project Upgrade, where they pull an average guy off the streets of New York and give him a makeover.

This one happened a few months back, but it was my favorite as I couldn't believe the Before picture of the guy in his wide load khakis. "Pear shaped" is not a term usually given to men, especially guys under 30.

I miss him

2009-11-06T09:00:00.000-08:00

Never thought I'd say that

post by David

Planting Seeds

2009-11-03T09:09:00.000-08:00

After a 7 year hiatus, my Fashion Cards are back in production and will be sold at THE SEED @ The Camp in Costa Mesa. Wish me luck as I am trying to get other retailers to stock and sell my cards. A special thanks to Brenda, Miki and especially David who encourages me to do my art - this labor of love always pays off.

School's Cool

2009-11-02T15:25:00.000-08:00

My creative class assignments for Visual Display and Specialty Merchandise class.

Window display group project. It's hard to see but the globe in the back is different shades of denim shaped into the earth - the continents are Trader Joe's brown paper bags.

Those wooden stumps are mine. I went dumpster diving when they cut down the trees in our neighborhood. I use them for the patio to display my plants (yes they are still alive).

Sorry there is a glare - this was the best photo I could take of the whole window.

The pictures below are shadow boxes - these are actually miniature scene scapes made by students in my class. Here are my favorites:

My New York flat with the view of the Hudson.

My Parisian boudoir on the Champs Elysees.

My zen studio in San Francisco's China Town.

My modern Miami penthouse.

My Texan ranch bedroom.

My ski chalet in Switzerland.

This is the one I created - it's my LA bar lounge.

Music Monday--Raphael Saadiq

2009-11-02T09:15:00.000-08:00

New thing I'm starting and will hopefully continue on a regular basis.

First up is Raphael Saadiq and "Love That Girl". Raphael was part of Tony Toni Tone! who had a hit with "Feels Good" back in the day. He became an in-demand producer for a lot of R&B acts, but has released 2 solo albums, the most recent is done in the old 50s/60s style of singing, similar to Smokey Robinson or early Stevie Wonder.

Alex was singing this all day, even sitting next to me in the restaurant while we were waiting for our food.

I like his plaid shirt, though I don't think I could pull it off.

post by David

Smashing Good Time

2009-10-31T23:00:00.001-07:00

For Halloween morning we went to Cal State Fullerton's 2nd Annual Pumpkin Launch. We had such a great time seeing pumpkins fly up in the air and get tossed around. A cannon called the Pumpkin Lobber even shot one across the field and it went right through the scoreboard all the way to the parking lot.

The catapults examine their physics strategy.

Mommy, Son and Daddy yell Lobber! Lobber! Lobber!

Smashing Pumpkins is so much fun to watch!

Halloween evening we were joined by Leila , Brenda and Zion out to Trick-Or-Treat.

Best pumpkin carving this year (no no ours).

Fireman Alex and Vampire Zion in search of candy.

Hula girl Leila dancing for some chocolate.

Are they tired yet? David, Brenda and me too tired to take our own pictures.

Count Zion ready for more sweets.

Thank you Mom and Dad Nix for feeding us the great pasta dish tonight and making it memorable for the kids!

Our Little Pumpkin

2009-10-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

This is Alexander's first Halloween pictures back in 2002.

Alex - you are growing up so fast - must be all that Lovin'.

Alex's curly locks and my scary face cuz I was sick in this pic.

New Daddy David enjoying his pumpkin pie.

Fireman Alex

2009-10-30T16:55:00.000-07:00

For Halloween, Alex decided to be a firefighter. He got the idea from our visit to the FV Fire Department Open House last month. Alex also saw a real fire take place across the street last week on the day of our anniversary. He got his costume out, took me outside and wanted to help out the firefighters while daddy called 911. Two heros in the making.

Playing Dress Up

2009-10-30T16:07:00.000-07:00

My niece Leila and I have so much fun playing Fashionista.

She's a super model in the making

and me? I get to play out my Rachael Zoe fantasy.

All of the clothes and accessories

can be found in my closet collection and

is available for 1 million dollars!

She looks like a young Carla Bruni, no?

Old Haunts

2009-10-30T15:01:00.000-07:00

Every year we visit Roger's Gardens to see the Halloween displays

- it's one of our favorite past times. Here are pics from their Mad Scientist theme this year.

Trick or Treat

2009-10-29T08:57:00.001-07:00

Collage of photos from past and present Halloweens

These pumpkins pics are from our visit to Half Moon Bay back in March 2009.

Our Anniversary

2009-10-29T08:51:00.001-07:00

We had a lovely picnic on the beach at Crystal Cove.

Mural paintings in the tunnel of LOVE.

Thank you David for my Lola Marc Jacobs perfume

and special 10th Anniversary art piece.

Happy 10th Anniversary Love!

2009-10-22T22:29:00.000-07:00

Oh the places we will go...

New York

Amsterdam

Maui

Tacoma

San Francisco

Seattle

San Diego

Chicago

Austin

Next stop Barcelona...2010

Thank you Heavenly Father for 10 wonderful years with David. Looking foward to many more years of making memories with my sweetheart David and lovely Alexander! - XXX OOO Armilyn

Sneak Peek 3

2009-10-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

One week to go...

Fleas and Trees in August

2009-10-14T09:31:00.000-07:00

Back in August, we visited the Rose Bowl flea market with Armilyn's parents and cousin Joanne who was visiting from Michigan. Surprisingly, I have never been to the Rose Bowl, even though I have lived in Southern California all my life and been to Pasadena a number of times.

It was a very spur of the moment trip, and we arrived an hour before closing time, so it was kind of a mad dash looking for the arts & crafts section Joanne wanted to see.

Joanne ready to go in

Alex and I taking a break after going around the Rose Bowl on a hot afternoon

The following week, we went to the Peter and Mary Muth Interprative Center in Upper Newport Bay. It's a free science center at the uppermost point of the bay and you can hike or bike on various trails that lead off from the center. It provides a gorgeous view of the upper bay and you can pretend for a moment that you are not in the middle of an urban area--until a jet that just took off from John Wayne Airport flies overhead. There's a lot of wetlands, grasses, brush and a few trees.

Reflections of the ones I love

Alex wants to head into the river

I think the authorities would frown if we grabbed some tubes and floated down river.

Click on the picture to see the full panorama

Sneak Peek 2

2009-10-12T15:33:00.000-07:00

Wonder what this has to do with the first sneak peek?