Need a good laugh?

Why not. It's Friday!

hena, kahi-boy & kahi's straightened "awesome Jared Allen mullet"!

Look out weekends cus here we come

lohena & kanohea in a FREE stroller 2010

"It's Aloha Friday, no work `til Monday..."

In Hawaii every Friday morning they usually play this song on the radio, to signify the end of the work week and celebrate the start of the weekend. Besides the fact that Friday means the work week is over, well, for most of us anyway. It also means that we get daddy for more than a few hours at a time; BUT also it means "Freebie Friday"!

One of my favorite websites, posts every Friday all the things you can get for FREE today and the rest of the month!

For Example of February 1, 2010- the first 500,000 Denny's Customers to register will receive a free burger and fries. http://www.dennys.com/LiveImages/Users/SuperBowl%20PressRelease.pdf

I've gone to Denny's, fed me and the kids and have paid for nothing but apple juice before. There's no shame in it!

So check it out!

http://www.momadvice.com/blog/

Also, BE SMART & CREATIVE. Pay attention to the museums and places in your neighborhood, there should always be a day where admission is FREE.

Just to name a few in my area:

1. Children's Museum of Tacoma-1st Friday is FREE
2. Experience Museum Project and Science Fiction Museum- 1st Thursday 5-8pm is FREE
3. Kids Quest Factoria- Fridays 5-8 FREE
4. Museum of Flight- 1st Thursday 5-8 FREE

Who said being FRUGAL wasn't FABULOUS?!

one man's JUNK is another man's TREASURE!

designer jeans courtesy of Erika & Kelli

With the exception of my children and anything chocolate, I must admit that I am a sucker for a great pair of jeans. I am not bias to any particular brand or pair. Dark or light, skinny or boot, I love them all. You could say it is my weakness. Unfortunately, a good pair of jeans in not easy to come by. It is a simple matter of timing and well, price. According to my husband, I have a "champagne taste on a beer budget". Meaning, there is a good chance that I will be wearing my favorite pair everyday of the week or until the holes in the crotch have spread so wide using the bathroom becomes hassle-free.

Remember, I am on a budget and a quest to save money!

Last week, my girlfriend Erika inherited a bag full of designer jeans from her very generous cousin who has recently come into some good fortune of losing a few pounds. And fortunately for me, I am reaping all the benefits. I received 5 pairs of designer jeans, Diesel - Adriano Goldschmied- Citizens of Humanity, etc. all for FREE! That just satisfied at least a years worth for wanting a new pair of jeans!

Thank you Kelli!


And you want to know the best part, I found $11 in the pocket, of which I did try to return.
Everyone likes to get things for free, but even better-GOOD things for FREE!

So I'll let you in on one of my best secrets! FREECYCLE

http://www.freecycle.org/- Freecycle is a free organization set up through Yahoo, designed like a forum consisting of members in you neighboring communities. It is a way to recycle items instead of sending them to the landfill. You sign up through yahoo and post "wanted" items that you are seeking and "offer" items that you may want to "freecycle".

Here are just a few FREE items that I have received through freecycle:

1. Graco car seat
2. Graco car seat base (new in box)
3. kitchen aid hand mixer
4. Moby wrap
5. Graco tandem double stroller
6. Kolocraft double umbrella stroller
7. changing table w/changing pad
8. Chicco Key fit car seat with base
9. toys
10. bread pans

Be CREATIVE and

you can always find the things that you want!

eli-james lohenaokealaka`i 6 months

I am in TROUBLE!

Confessions of a SHOPaholic

Marcus & Makana 2010

Up until recently I suffered from a really bad addiction. My ADDiction kept adding more stress on my family and husband, not to mention more fighting and simply more expenses. I was addicted to spending money. Don't get me wrong, I still thoroughly enjoy spending money, or shall I say buying new things. However, I have received some much needed help; an intervention if you dare.

I have tried to dissect my spending habits and have decided that there is no other answer but to blame my parents...(and myself). Don't get me wrong, I am SO grateful for all that they have given me, (and continue to give me, please don't stop because of this post ;oP) but I can honestly say I did not learn the best habits or the basics of finances. Which means, now I am subjected to learn the hard way...from Cameron!

So in my excitement and efforts to pay down our debts faster, I have changed a few things. Today I am going to talk about PERSPECTIVE!

Now that my perspective of life and finances has changed it is much easier to curb my appetite of spending? Why? Because I can see the BIG PICTURE! I know that if I am patient enough all of my debts will be paid off in a matter of a few years, therefore allowing me a much more stress-free life, but also financial freedom. Or most importantly, an opportunity to move home.

Don't get me wrong, we are not in any kind of trouble, but it would be nice to have no car payment or mortgage right? Would that not enhance your quality of life? So here it is: I got a job. This is just one way of how I am helping our cause.

From 8-3:30 ish Monday-Friday, I nanny a little girl, Makana. She is almost 2 years old and keeps Marcus company. It has taken some getting used to, (waking up by 8am!) but it is well worth it. You know, 3 kids isn't so bad....

Lohena 6 months

reVAMPing

the Durrett boy cousins 2009

Now that 2010 is here, our family has decided to take the time to follow a few necessary steps to make our lives, jobs and pockets not only more successful and stress-free, but happier. Isn't that what we all want? To be carefree, financial freedom, and most importantly: HAPPY!

I was just thinking about how many people out there aren't really happy. Well, how can they be? We are in the middle of an economic crisis. Every single one of us knows someone who has lost a job in the last year, has lost their home or has suffered a tragic loss somewhere along the line. So how many people out there are happy, or have even thought about their happiness. Sometimes we are so consumed with our everyday lives that we do not even notice that we are not happy or even content at that.

Cameron and I have been making conscious efforts to ensure our happiness, or at least be prepared if our happiness is threatened.

First of all our belief in Jesus Christ is our foundation. Yes, I am Mormon or more politically correct, LDS (Latter-day Saint). Meaning what? That life to me takes on a whole new perspective. I know who I am, I know my purpose, and I know that there is a life after death. Make your family your priority. Find a way to balance your life. A good way to do that is through Family Home Evening- involving the whole Family once a week. This is a great way to keep you and your family organized on weekly events and gives you a chance to look over your budget. It also serves as a reminder to be grateful for all that we have. http://www.lds.org/

Start out with these 10 steps:

1. Decide to make 2k10 a FANTASTIC year! Our minds are the most powerful tool that we possess. Thinking powerful and positive thoughts is only half the battle. Make sure that you surround yourself with positive people as well.

2. This is advice that I have learned the hard way. Keeping up with the Jones' will make you broke or worse, put you into some serious debt. Besides for all you know, they could be in debt too! Be Happy with who you are and what you have! Believe me, It can ALWAYS be WORSE!

3. Service does wonders for the soul. Help someone else out for a change. And it doesn't have to involve any money!

4. Map out your year. Start with the END in mind and make some worth-while goals.When you write things down you are more likely to accomplish them.

-Write it down

-Take Action
-Stay Consistent

CHALLENGE: Cameron and I have set a goal to be "beach body" ready for the summer. We have been using the P90X program & diet, and so far I have lost 6 lbs.


5. Protect your FAMILY! Do you have life insurance? Is your policy up to date? This simple and minimal expense is so important to you and your family. Talk about stress off your back! Who knows when and under what circumstances we will leave this life?!

6.Be a Better Employee/ Business Owner. Accountability, Integrity and Self-Worth bring a sense of value to you and your every day job.

7. Learn Something new! Take the time out to read a book or study something that you have a desire to learn. Make the time to learn something new.

8. Review your expenses. Keep an eye on that Credit Card. How can you cut back? For us, we have chosen to keep our eating out to a minimum. I guess it comes down to WANT or NEED?

9. Make more money! I know, I know! How can?!? People are hardly getting jobs as it is. Well, be CREATIVE! Have a garage sale, Craig's list, eBay etc. I have recently started babysitting and nannying. Think outside the BOX. If you are determined you will think of something.

10. Increase your "rainy day" fund or pay Down your debts. How??? Although the only debt we have is our mortgage, we have been on a different program for about 4 months and in the first 2 months we were able to pay down our principal on our mortgage $5,000! NO tricks! BELIEVE IT!! http://www.101financial.com/

So here's the CHALLENGE:

Cameron and I bought a $12,ooo F-250 in December and using our 101 financial we have set a goal. A goal to have our new truck paid off by Cameron's birthday, May 1, 2010! Think we can do it? Follow me on my journey!

Other than that, I cannot foresee the future; and things happen that set us back from our goals; but prepare yourself and take the time to invest in your happiness!

Be HAPPY in 2010!

2K10

Shame on me, it has been way too long! Well, here's a quick overview of what's new!

First of all we are so fortunate enough to be blessed with such great friends and family. Another year has once again, come and gone. Closing out the year with a fantastic Christmas Holiday! I am grateful that although we may not be growing a "money tree" in the backyard, this was the best Christmas to date! Marcus still talks about "yanta", hopefully when he starts to understands the purpose of Christmas, he will also be talking about Jesus Christ; for we know that there is more to life than our material possessions. Our faith in the Lord and Savior makes everything possible.
We had an awesome Christmas, thank you Durrett/Heide Ohana!

With 2009 coming to a close, we welcomed the changes of 2010 with open arms. Spending the New Year in Utah with Alana and Kahi really made me miss and appreciate my Family. Without good family where would we be? I love them tremendously, and I am glad that I hold the knowledge that although we may have our differences, we are Heavenly Father's Children and we are together in this life and the next. Families can be together Forever!

Marcus has been learning his colors, shapes and how to throw a successful tantrum. He is also talking so clearly; and is such a loving and helpful big brother. Lohena, my sweet little man, for Christmas gave me 2 front teeth! Thank you son! He can now sit on his own, crawl a few paces, and loves to eat and sleep. However, this week the boys have been sick. Our days have consisted of sleep, tissues and medicine. After Marcus woke to snakes in his bed, because of a 104 temp. we have been doing our best to stay healthy and devoting most of our time to recovery (sleeping in till 10 every morning.) There is nothing more exhausting than sick, pathetic little babies; who can't sleep.

On that same note, I got a job! I know!! Anyway to help the family...right! :o) Last week I started nanny-ing a family friend's little girl. She is about the same age as Marcus and they have a blast all day long; well, when they aren't fighting! I am surprised at how fast the time flies.

Other than that, Cameron is swamped as usual. Juggling work, night school, a church calling, coaching a little 7th grade basketball team, and US; we use our time with him wisely.

I cannot believe that this year has jump started and January is already almost gone! I hope that everyone had a great 2009, and I wish that you will have an even better 2010!

Happy New Year!
Aloha,
the Heide's

Ginger Bread House

Yesterday we had the opportunity to go to a friend's house and make gingerbread houses. This was Marcus' first experience and it is safe to say it was a SUCCESS! Granted he spent most of his time just eating all the candy, but he thoroughly enjoyed himself. He was playing so well that every once in awhile he would come to me and say, "Mommy, no bye-bye, okay?!" Not to mention our gingerbread house looks fantastic!

Thanks Jenny!

Happy Holiday's

Maybe this is tacky, but for all of you who

we may not get to see often,

we wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and the best of wishes for the New Year!

Love & Aloha,

the Heide's

Jolly `ole St. Nick

Last weekend, our Church had our annual Christmas Breakfast, and as always Santa Clause made his appearance. Marcus didn't want to get near him and instead of crying he went limp. His whole body went limp, and we had to drag him away...However, Lohena had no problem. This year Nana and Grandpa came with us and so did our dear friend Erika and her beautiful daughters, Kai and Makana. Marcus absolutely loves these girls. When it was time to say good bye he chase both sisters down and gave them great big kisses on the lips. He looked really pleased with himself.

This year our ward participated in "The Giving Tree" where all donations directly benefited Issaquah Food Bank. Our family participated by granting 2 wishes for different children. My heart broke when I read their Christmas wishes!

14 year old girl- new underwear and socks

14 year old boy- boxers

Often times we are so caught up in the material items and what we want that we don't even stop to think about others. 2 teenagers, and all they want is some new underwear. I am grateful for all that I have and I am grateful that I can give my children what they want; BUT I really hope that what they learn most about Christmas is GIVING!

I hope everyone has used this season to give service to someone else. Don't worry, if you haven't done so, there is still time!!

Happy Holiday's!

5 months and 5 years!

On December 10th Cameron and I celebrated our 5 year anniversary; well he had class so Marcus and I made homemade Pizza and watched a movie! I just cannot believe how fast it has gone. I guess, time flies when you're having fun?!? My pretty flowers.
On December 9th, my sweet little baby Lohena made 5 months. Time really does fly! I was getting ready for church while he played on my bed, when I turned around
he was fast asleep! I love this little guy!

It's getting cold

It has really started to get cold here again. I can easily say, not my most favorite time of the year, nevertheless a change. A change that welcomes frosty lawns, icy driveways, warmer clothes and shorter days (the shorter days, is the one that kills me).

Needless to say, we have found ourselves, bundled up in bed and never leaving the house most of the days. Which means we have to fill our short, cabin-fever days with exciting new tricks. Yes, tricks. Hand-painting (I was nervous the entire time), baking (Marcus' favorite), crafting (my favorite) and cleaning (Cameron's favorite- keeps me from going out and spending money!)

CUTE STORY: The other day we were driving and it got really foggy.

Marcus: mommy, snow!

Me: no, it's fog buddy.

Marcus: WHAT?

Me: FOG!

Marcus: WHAT?

Me: FOG!

Marcus: WHAT?

Me: FOG!

Marcus: (nodding his head) OH YA! RIBBIT!

(he though I said Frog!)

Here are some of the things we have filled our short, dark, gloomy,

(well, you get the point) days with.

I don't know why they love this so much!

Wrapping other people's presents when the kids are awake.

{BAD IDEA!}

This kid moves around so much, he gets stuck in the weirdest places!

Brotherly LOVECameron gave Marcus a pair of his basketball socks and he has

been obsessed with them. Wears them everywhere!

Lots of dancing, and apparently I'm not allowed to dance anymore!Just laying around!

Family Pictures 2009

{Cameron's jacket and hat when he was a little kid!}

A month or so ago, I took the boys to take their 3 month and 2 year pictures, however, it didn't turn out as well as I thought. This time we went back and took daddy with us, so much better!

Merry "CHRIST"mas

Saw this the other day and just laughed...

well, it's true!

Bellevue Botanical Gardens- D`Lights

Every year the Bellevue Botanical Gardens does a fantastic night show. It is amazing. Most of the "greenery" is not even draped over exisitng plants, but instead it is crafted out of lights to look like plants, flowers and the occasional "critter". It costs about $60,000 to put on, so they ask for a simple $1 donation. That, we could do. Talk about sensory overload, Marcus was screaming in the car as we got close to the lights. Needless to say it was aboslutely amazing, creative, and fun family time. If you live near, check it out!