It's Been Way Too Long....

First of all, I miss you all.  I miss sitting behind my computer jotting away the pages in my chapters of life.

I came home with a silly flu bug.  One that Kali passed the baton to on Sunday as she fevered all.the.way.home.  So for the last couple of days my head feels like it will explode and my hair feels incredibly too heavy. My eye balls hurt. LOL- Not to mention I am moving like a sloth.  I've gone into work for quick bouts of time to do the tasks that only I seem content enough to know they're done. As well as my nag for Monday with labs for Kris and a phone appointment.  One that he chose over driving to Hollywood. Can't blame him, so I just follow his tail. And hover.  Way up high, I still hover.  I am hovering even more distant right now as I battle this bug.  True blessings of mama staying well throughout this journey.  Tis' true, right?

His counts look great!  Some more med changes for some GVHD that is poppin up in rash form. Add some, take some and keep on pushing. 

Back to see her in two weeks and I will continue on my prayer warrior mode as I do. 

So for now, I leave you with these pictures. At the desert bar.  Of my birds. One that has fought so hard to get through this journey. The others to help push us all through the hardest days. 

As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words.  Or in my chapter, it fills my heart and mends the tiny pieces that have been broken. This picture makes me smile extra big, because they have never been the huggy type of bro and sis.  His hand on her knee....melt.me....this time last year she'd run at the sight of him getting ready to puke. 

Stay tuned, I have plenty to show. Plenty of sunset pictures with the love of my life.  Plenty of laughter and plenty of silly.  Thanksgiving this year proved to be heaps and bounds over the last.  And maybe even the few before that! 

We are extremely grateful. 

For so so many things....

Love to you all, and air hugs and kisses from this sappy, stuffy, tissue riddled mama bird.  Hello Nyquil, comin' atcha spicy!

This Mama Lisa

Our "Best News" Anniversary!

November Nineteenth Two Thousand Fifteen. 

We were on our way to a port change,  with a side of a "small bag of chemo".  I'd pull up to their place with warm hopes he'd feel strong and good enough to walk to my car.  I always had his seat filled with blankets and pillows....First thing he'd ask for was Gatorade.

As I pulled into CVS, right to the front I grabbed my wallet and phone.

I was next in line with the person in front of me grabbing their receipt from the sweetest eldest, what looked to me like a LB local. With the stain on her cheeks of many years of sunshine down there in the LBZ.  A chirpy sweet vibe.  Next in line, I'd hear my phone ring.  Knowing I needed to answer, yet in all my manners, one of which I've taught my children, YOU MUST NEVER ever be on the phone while being served.  

I quickly apologized to this sweet lady, rambling out "I am so sorry, I must take this VERY important call" (It was from City Of Hope)

Looking up to see that gatorade ring up at 1.60 somethin' and I'd lay 2.00's down, to briskly walk out the front door.  As Kathy from City Of Hope started to give me the news. 

News that "We've found a donor for Kris"- We actually have two.  However the younger of the two will be requested.   

I immediately broke into tears as my son watched me navigate back into the car.  I went from hugging his arms, leg, and smiling at him while tears rolled down my cheeks.  Running late to our chemo appointment...and all I could do is just sit in amazement.  Sheer amazement. 

What I didn't know was the road he'd head down.

I will forever and ever be grateful for November 19, 2016-

I will forever and ever be grateful for my son here with us today. 

Because we have our German donor. 

Here's a link to our Thanksgiving announcement last year. Forever THANKFUL

To all my fellow fighters out there.  KEEP PUSHING.  Don't EVER give up on Faith.

Do your research.  Spoil your babies.  Be firm when needed, yet soft all around. 

NOVEMBER 16, 2015

GERMANY!

Happy Saturday friends....

PEACE, LOVE AND PRAY FOR A CURE!

This Mama Lisa

And When You Blink.

 Not sure what melts my heart more.  Peeking back at old pictures, or reading blog posts from years past.

 #PHASES

 Besties and babies

 Besties and Babies

 Lover, I hope for forever, and ever.

 Parentals.

 If I knew then, what I know now....

 Happy peaceful girl on a Friday sunset....2012

 Bestie and Sistie...

 Kindergarten....the land of the thumb, and lots of hugs...

 And Christian awards....minus front teeth. boom

 My Everything.

 Big Hair.

 Shaka baby....

 White Sunglasses....

 More white sunglasses.  I tossed mine. 

Papa Steve, Rest in PEACE....We still miss your chuckle...

 Dad, you're so handsome.  And Toby, what a fine little dog he was....not sure what's growin' here, but....

 Funnest races each year....

 Our favorite dock on our favorite holiday...Thanksgiving!

 I love you.

 Always tryin' to love life.

 The road this little girl would head down, little did she know...1975

 Best friends through thick and thin....our six pack members for life!

Shirley, you are missed and needed more than ever.  

And there's a slice of my memories, and pictures that I still smile at, tear up at, and will forever and EVER be grateful I have. 

Snap away kids, and never stop shooting pictures.....For one day you will look back on them....and each year they'll come a little more precious....

Happy Tuesday!  Go spread smiles...even if it's in the dark on the way home from work.  LOL!

This Mama Lisa

The Weekend Full Of Sunshine...

Happy Monday friends...Mine is rather slushy--- Which isn't a bad thing. In fact, if I could turn back time to our afternoon bike ride yesterday, eh em--shhh we rode one mile. To Sea Legs and back.  Well, not back. We so happened to veer our bikes right up to Brix.  Where we could hear live blues bellowing out.  And when that goes on, something strange happens...we end up inside.  And soon we'd be seated among a full house of wine smiles, red cheeks, shoulder swayin' folks.

  Last week Friday could not come any sooner...it was a doozy. And not so much for one particular thing, it was just bonkers.  Totally bonkers.  The election, the gnarly comments from friends about the election on social media, the tension all around.  Not to mention the thick energy from this beautiful full moon. 

I've said it once, and I'll say it every gosh darn month...full moons and drama do.not.mix. 

Period.

Jane decided to rally us girls by dockside at 5pm on Friday.  SUCH a beautiful night....

*wave hello to John our Captain-Jane's hub*

 You can't encapsulate those moments, you can just snap shots, and sip good wine.  Always wishing on a star for another day, and a new week...Cheers to closing out one heck of a week...

(We missed our Rox and Cindy Dutton)

Saturday, Kali made her way home as I prepared enchiladas, rice and beans.  We'd soon walk the beach, catching up on life's latest and greatest. The nice long walk down to the jetty keeping our eyes on massive amounts of sea shells. 

Meanwhile, my other birdies were doin weddings, baby showers, and birthday dinners...

By the way. "HAPPY BIRTHDAY JEFF-MAN" 

Not sure what that alien thing is in between their faces, but....And REALLY not sure what that pink microphone is by Cheyne.  OMG, boys will forever be boys....

But, don't my babies look so awesome!  Kris, you've come a long way baby!

Kris posted this picture on Saturday, and a few friends blew up his phone.  

Seems as though they're announcing something- HA

They were baby shower shopping.  Can you just imagine the day I get this news?!!

Watch out world....watch out....

#KEEPDREAMINGGRAMMIE

So Sunday was a lazy start.  I washed my hair and blow dried it.  Which is a feat in itself.  One hour of sweat blood and tears. jk.  well, kinda.

The girls came over which always rolls into a

dock sit and wine sips. 

Bike rides that SOMEHOW ended in Brix.  

Those bikes.....they better shape up next time. 

We don't need these foggy Monday eyes now do we?

Red wine, red wine, why you gotta be so fine....

Shell, how was your early fire safety course?! HAHAHA

Happy Monday...

PS- Happy 20th Birthday Savannah- I say it every year, and I'll keep saying it every year...
YOU MAKE US PROUD! Keep pushing! 

This Mama Lisa

God Bless America

  America, to me, is Freedom...(Willie Nelson)

With Respect, Honor, and Gratitude...I thank you. Happy Veterans Day to our service men and women.  Those who've left us, and those who still stand guard.  We thank you.

Have a safe and peaceful weekend friends.  

Love and Peace,

This Mama Lisa-

Happy 10th month birthday on Sunday, Kristopher--

Kali, YOU ARE MY FAVORITE DAUGHTER.

Well, you....and Jen- But you know you roll a tight first because, well....I carried you and heard your heartbeat first. And I felt you first. And I birthed you natural. And I carried you around all day, every day so you wouldn't scream. But we won't talk about those first days, because really it's just a distant memory now. 

What I have carried around in my heart since, is how proud I am of you.  How proud you've made me through all the days of elementary, as you memorized each bible verse each week like a pro.  You always wanted to be by my side, most especially falling asleep with me.  You were my driving partner to the many many different soccer practice and game day fields.  You would confide in me with your deepest fears, and most always your secrets.  You trusted me whole kindheartedly with your education, health, food, and wisdom.  Knowing full well I would step up to ANY plate to help you.  We did have the small phase in high school where me working the dances wasn't your favorite, and yet you just smiled through it.  

You've moved on to college like no other. Only struggling through those first months in that dorm. Something I truly believe was so meant to be.  I take back my theory that "going away to college is over-rated" because it's not.  I do believe it helps mold people independently.  It just does.  Not always easy, but they do survive. 

You've kept amazing grades, and super amazing relationships with professors.  Always that first initial meeting that you think they're "weird", and most times they've turned out to be your favorite.  Remember that lady professor last year? Amazing story. 

You've loved me back when you've felt pushed back during brothers journey.  A mom that lost all college worries about you.  You still stood strong and kept your shit together.  I thank you. 

You uber like a boss.  For that whole deal, I am forever grateful.  

You navigated through heartbreak way better than I could.  In fact, sometimes I would be quick to judge something and you'd shut it down.  

I'm sorry I posted that picture of you on the ground LOL- and it offended you.  Most offending was my comment about Parenting Fail.  I say things out of silly-ness.  The world knows you're a good kid. 

Just out having the time of your life in college. 

Also, spending our money.  JK.  totally jk.  please don't send me another sad text. 

Shark week bites, and this full moon bites.  This too shall pass....

I love you, and could shout to the world just how proud I am of you.  You are really amazing.  

Don't toss the towel in on me.  HAHA!

So, hey world...I never meant to make my little beautiful birdie out to be a sidewalk junkie. 

I love you Kali.  You make Dad and I proud. I can't wait for you to bring it all home someday and take care of us!  BOOM!

  

Her dinners.....YUM!

And if you wonder what this is above, it's sweet loving love from Grant to Kali. Dropped this off while she was at school. She was feeling under the weather this week....and so these are a few of her favorite things...

Grant, what a stud! THANK YOU!  You are a sweet heart!  The spoiled love the spoilin'- xoxo

Going through pictures from last year on this day.  

My handsome birdie....  November 10, 2015

You've come a loooong wayyy babayyyyy!

Happy Thursday kids.  Hope you're all coping with this political social media circus.  

God Bless AMERICA!

This Mama Lisa-

Kali, I LOVE YOU!

Bring Me All The Signs.

Alex Tung- Fellow Transplant Survivor - City Of HOPE---

As I was sitting at my desk we'd see a guy make his way down the hall, to peek around the corner at us.

Eye to eye with me. Not knowing what our warehouse had...just driving by. Noticing the clothing sign.

 He wanted to buy shirts to take to Hawaii tomorrow. 

I'd say "ALEX"! He smiles back with a look of shock...."Oh my gosh, this is crazy, you're Kris' mom"-

Coincidence? 

Or.......

Alex endured the same protocol of transplant as Kris at City Of HOPE. He also had a "clinical trial". of umbilical cord blood.  Something necessary after exhausting 6 months of trying to find a donor for his Asian decent. Pushing the odds against him more than ever. We reached out to him last year as Kris was preparing to go through the fight of his life.  He was a tad bit vague with us at the time. Rightfully so.  Knowing what was ahead of us, maybe he spared us the gruesome information that would indefinitely bring us together some day.  At one point I blamed our ocean for getting Kris sick.  Alex is an avid surfer.  At this time last year I kept thinking the leukemia came from the radiation in our waters...sounds conspiracy-ish...but let me tell you, when your child is fighting to survive, and diagnosed with the scariest term. You begin to blame. 

And yet here we are. 

Surfers, divers and fisherman.

I didn't think it would happen like this.  As a matter of fact, just last weekend we had emailed back and forth. He mentioning he'd love to meet us soon. Afterall, we're from the same town, per say. 

I'd mention putting together a little bbq of sorts to just sit together and spread love and hugs from what he and Kris endured. 

But today......TODAY, I got to hug his sweet arms, and kiss his sweet cheeks.  

On this day last year, this was my view...

 

And today.....I get to see this...

You can find Alex' story here-

Alex's Fight- City Of Hope

(His words about his mama....melt-me)

I always preach about looking for signs.  Trying to let my heart lean on God.  My worries, most especially during my darkest days go to places they shouldn't.  

And it's days like today.  When this person walks in.  

I think....."Everything is gonna be alright"-

With another glance up to the Heavens with my utmost gratitude.

Thanks for stopping by Alex.....

ALOHA, you fighter you....

This Mama Lisa

And While We Wait.

Here's one of my favorite sites to "check out"-

Mostly for their DIY, and of course recipes.

This link to their wreaths is fantastic....

Give me allllll the wreaths. 

Wreaths...

I hope your evening includes PEACE.  Remembering how lucky you are to have friends and family to love you.  The rest will fall into place. 

Beautiful shot by Kris this past weekend by my parents home- November 2016

And this one too..

On their front lawn.....aren't they beautiful....

This Mama Lisa

Monday You Sneaky Feller....

Raise your hand if you're ready for this political circus to end?

  How embarrassing.  All of it. 

Sad to say, it won't end tomorrow....this shiz is gonna drag out onto the lawn and across the street for days and days and days. 

I have also tossed more ridiculous worded/tree killing political post-cards away without giving it so much as a transfer from one hand to the trash within 30 seconds. 

Folks, if you haven't done your homework by now, and truly follow what you believe, well then you need help. 

jk.

But not really. 

Get out and vote, if you haven't already. Propositions affect you directly here in California. 

YOU matter.  Stand up for what YOU believe.

Last week my lover bolted off to SEMA, which is in Vegas. - In reality I think he caught a good time with good friends and came home on Friday to the same ol' bs that goes down in life. Our business life.

I couldn't wait for him to come home though...as always. I miss him.

But

First up, this. 

If THAT isn't a welcome home banner, I don't know what is....

No worries though kids, it's only a water pump.  Did I ever mention I can never own a VW again? 

Ya, these sillies have Audi engines, and at this point in the game we can't play this wallet wrestling game. 

No mas. 

But our Friday night turned into sweet goodness.  Especially when you head to Sea Legs in HB. 

Tis truly is the best little wine bar in all the beachy land.  And just like the sign reads

 "If you're lucky to live by the sea, you're lucky enough"-

So sipping Jesus' juice with friends celebrating someones 50th.....well. I'd say we're lucky enough.

Happy Birthday Eric!!

 And while we were out drinking Jesus' juice, our littlest birdie was gettin' her Sorority Sisterhood Formal on. 

The request for the first round of pics came in a little spicy like this...

And then of course you know the drill with kids, social media, college, and the chapters you try to navigate through...I'm like, um. what.is.going.on.here.  Nervously asking if she posted this.  Texting as fast as I could. Scratching my head.  Wondering if I'm doing something wrong. . #parentfail? LOL

I am believing that he is holding her water, and she's trying to just cover up with that blanket as they laughed the night away.  oh.em.gee. For the record her leg isn't up in the air, juuuust that arm. Kali, Kali, Kali.....

Last year I received a picture of 5 girls squatting in an alley taking a whiz. 

Maybe we're taking it up a notch?

She did get creative in asking Grant to formal.

Then she sends me this. Which I get my glasses out to see if there's a nude bra underneath because as I hand the phone over to her papa....um.  He got his underwear all twisted up, and I explained "this is the style" and he still didn't want to buy that. 

But, whatch gonna do? 

Maybe I can send her clothes from Target. 

Anyway.....

Moving on kids...moving on. 

Oh gosh, I think I'm digging an even bigger hole.  I see side boob. 

Oh my word. 

UGH!!!

So, while our perfect family and perfect kid was doing perfect everything....

WE ARE PERFECT!
Perfect kids, perfect mom- LOL!

LAUGH-OUT-LOUD.  
She still continues to kick butt in school. 4.0 has been and hopefully will always continue.
Just don't tell anyone she sits on concrete in a dress.  thanks.

I was trying to find the most perfect hat for The Breeders Cup. Something I'd always heard of, yet never really had the desire to do.  Something about fancy feather hats, heels and gambling. notmything

But then I remembered I had this big hat from the summer and once tried to pull it off. 

Stuck that sucker on the top of my head one summer day at the lake and literally stood there laughing out loud into the mirror. 

Another day, another chance, but not that day. LOL

And so...

 I tossed on a summer dress (bathing suit cover -actually-) and this womper of a hat.  And headed out to the races with my lover.

 And guess what my strategy was...? Bet on the cute names. 

It didn't really help, but was sure fun for me.

We met up with our buddy Jerry from Hallett Boats.  A day spent laughing hard.  Sipping wine, er..gatorade and vodka...

Can I tell you a little secret?  

Remember how I told you during my blossoming relationship with Jesus, how I just ask him to show me signs.  Or maybe it's not that...maybe it's more of my own search during my own journey. 

As I made my way around being introduced to new friends...I'd shake the hands of "Lorraine"-

She's an OR Nurse at City Of Hope. 

Seriously you guys.  Sometimes I wanna look up to the heavens and just smile. 

She knows our doctor.  She knows my path. Our path.  

I won 2 dollars at the races.  What I won, in friendship, in fellowship and good laughs, was to look at the goodness.  In people and places.  

Sunday morning Bill and I both woke up with the talks of pancakes. I had been craving them for weeks. 

Off to the store I went.  Loaded up the truck with all things "Sunday Morning Breakfast and Dinner"- 

Pancake breakfast and a big ol' pot of chile for us.  

Guess what else we pulled out?

And before you start accusing us of being over achievers, settle down....LOL!

We were pretty bored yesterday. AND....why not be the first one up.  Why not enjoy this holiday season just a tad bit more. This time last year we were all so frazzled.  SO FRAZZLED----

Tis the season kids!  Gobble Gobble --------> HO-HO-HO-HO!!!

Happy Monday! Hope you're feeling silly like me.

Just gooooo with it. 

Or not. 

Keep kindness in front.

Love to you all,

This Mama Lisa