A step in the shoes of Joanne

Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-10T23:18:00.001-07:00

Mother's Day this year was so chill. I woke up, worked on some emails, enjoyed Jon making me breakfast, ate BLT Sandwiches, caesar salad, deviled egg salad, and ice tea for lunch. Had a water fight with the kids, and just relaxed with the family.

It was definitely one of the best Mother's Days I have spent in the past 5 years I have been a mother. We were in Morgan Hill all weekend due to Airis' Mad Hatter Tea Party Birthday Bash and my mother and father in law were back from the Philippines with my niece and nephew so we had to stay over. It was so nice to enjoy a little bit of family life again instead of running in and out of the house and trying to squeeze in that time. This weekend we made it family time the entire weekend.

Airis had the chance to enjoy her time with her cousins whom she hadn't seen in a while. They came back with little filipino accents which I'm hoping we might be able to knock before they go back, but I highly doubt it.

Here are some fotos from the weekend that I'm enjoying!

Its been too long

2009-05-10T12:41:00.001-07:00

...since I've blogged. We have just been so busy that its been really difficult for me to find time to just simply post a few words.

So lets sum up what has happened in the last month and a half!!

Starting April:

-moved into my mom's place. We're saving up for a house, paying off some debt, and well...It has just started!! We're scheduled to be debt free by hopefully July and going to start setting aside as much money as we can so that we can have that beautiful 2400 sq ft home I've been dreaming off...

-been working like non stop madness woman! Moving to Limon Salon has been amazing. I've been super busy and its been a really nice feeling!

-work, work, and more work!!

May:

-Airis turned 5 years and it has been so much fun

-Airis had a birthday party a crazy one!!

-Mother's Day today and I'm blogging...

BUSY BEES!!

2009-03-22T18:31:00.000-07:00

I know I know I haven't posted in a while, but we have been so busy around here. With wedding season approaching, life becoming busy and hectic, moving into my mom's house by the end of the month...I really have had no time!!

The best years of our lives are approaching and I can feel it happening so quickly!!

So a recap on my lovely day today!!

Woke up at 9:00AM- made Airis breakfast! Waffles and strawberries...YUMMY

Edited and launched an engagement session...Might I say it was a touchy one!!

12:3o PM, went to APPLE in downtown Palo Alto to drop off my MacBook Pro.

Airis + chocolate milk + MBP = two keys not working! ( not the greatest combination, but what can you do when you have kids!!)

The rest of the afternoon. PACKING!!

Since no post is complete with out a picture...Jon and Airis came to visit me at work and brought me a lovely present for my locker!! I had no idea we had a photobooth in our house!!

Just because

2009-03-11T23:40:00.000-07:00

Justin Timberlake danse pour Beyonce - Blog

Debt Free

2009-03-11T08:03:00.000-07:00

If all goes as planned we shall be free of the shackles by November, if not sooner!! Thank God, praise Jesus, and all of the above!!

It will be time to start stocking up money for that beautiful house that we've been dreaming of!!

Joannathanaris = Joanne + Jonathan + Airis

2009-03-01T17:28:00.001-08:00

Joannathan makes it into a blog!!

2009-02-25T14:52:00.000-08:00

Hey hey world!! Check it out friends and family we made it onto a website/blog. Rock n Roll Bride is one that launched recently and a site that we frequently visit for inspiration.

So I wanted to post this up to give credit to all my vendors who were involved.

Hairstylist: Paulo Candido of Ego Mechanix Salon

Make up: Ann Ho of Chromesick Make Up (408) 561-2373

Photography: Joel Flory Photography

Flowers: Shablooms

Coolness: The entire bridal party!!!

For the original post please visit http://www.rocknrollbride.com/?p=4056

insomnia

2009-02-12T02:23:00.000-08:00

It's 2:24AM and well my cold has gotten better, but I couldn't sleep tonight. I don't know if part of it is knowing the excitement, the thrill, the nerves, and well the anxiety of what's all to come in the next couple days.

I will now be in charge of two businesses. Helping my husband run his and my own, with my hair world. CAN SOMEONE PLEASE HELP ME!!! I have no clue what I've just gotten myself into, but I think I'm going to do just fine. I know I'm going to do just fine.

Good night.

sickness

2009-02-10T15:04:00.001-08:00

SUCKS!!

hellogoodbye

2009-01-27T23:35:00.000-08:00

Soon I will be starting at my new home Limon Salon. To clear the questions let me get this out there first so that I'm not bombarded with "why are you leaving egomechanix, i thought you loved it there?" from the entire world.

First of all my decision to leave Ego Mechanix Salon is really based on a lot of different reasons, the huge reason is my daughter and my family. My daughter Airis will be starting kindergarten this year and will more than likely be going to the morning session from 8:30-11:30 or 8:30-12:00. Whatever that AM session is at the school we get her in. With that said I always need to base my decisions on change as if I am the only one who will be around for her. Despite all the loving family, my husband (her daddy) who can help with drop offs and pick up schedules, I want to know that if I can rely on any of the other loved ones, that my daughter will always have me.

The new salon will allow me to have flexible schedule in regards to my needs. I will miss egomechanix salon as there were so many great memories and great friendships made there. The entire staff will always be in my heart as I wish I will always be in theirs. Like I said in previous posts 2009 is themed the year of change and this is one major one that I feel will be a great and exciting opportunity for me to grow and still be around for my family.

So lets raise our glasses to the new and exciting adventures and I hope to see you at Limon Salon.

creativity

2009-01-25T11:10:00.001-08:00

Creativity flows every where around me...

I feel so blessed to be around people who are highly talented in the arts. All my graphic designer friends, creative writers, photographer friends, web designers, invitation designers, fashion, make up, and hairstylists are the ones who keep me motivated to keep on striving for better!!!

Thank you all!!!

Airis can read!!!

2009-01-23T00:50:00.001-08:00

Tonite's bed time story telling was a success!! I cannot even tell the world how proud I am of my little girl.

Tonight's book was "I can name 50 trees" by Dr. Suess.

Airis read words without or with very little help by Jon and I. Some of the words were:

books
can
today
trees
umbrella
sky
tall
all

and so many others!! Jon and I were so excited. We've been reading with her and trying to help her get her phonics for almost 3-4 months extensively and at first she never showed interest or just gave up quickly. Tonight she just was soaked into it and when Jon and I read too much she said, "I wanna read too."

Being parents ROCK!!

The Day of Change

2009-01-20T23:16:00.000-08:00

Today was a day that will go down in the history books for the future to come. The first African American President to run the United States of America. As I climb up the endless stairs to no where at the gym, I started to think about my own revelation to the need to change.

2008, WOW!!! Was definitely on year to remember. For a lot of people in the nation and the world, as well as myself, it was one of the worst years we've yet survived. For me and the rest of my family it was one of the best years of many to come. There were so many amazing memories in 2008.

First the biggest memory of all. I got married to someone who loves me for me and who's been a large support in my life!!

We launched our business.

My husband's dreams came true and so did mine. I've always been such an ambitious girl, everyone knows that; and I want the same for my partner in crime. When he made the "leap of faith" to pursue his dreams; I will admit I was scared. I didn't know how we were going to survive on my income alone and none the less how we would be able to make sure that our daughter never felt like we were struggling. Boy how God moves in mysterious ways. Launching Encarnacion Photography, has been the best thing that has happened to us. Making a dream turn into someone's reality is truly an inspiration. We are so proud of ourselves for doing this all on our own and we want to thank our family and friends for all the support.

During 2008 we've also had amazing memories with our family! We still travel to Disneyland quite frequently, but we've also made an amazing friendship with the Moeller Family in Fullerton, CA. We spent our best Fourth of July ever down there.

These are just some memories that will go down in our own history books. As 2009 begins I realize through the struggle of 2008 what truly is important in my life: passion, love, family and friends. 2009 is the year for me to strive for more, I know it'll be a tough road ahead, but something definitely worth the struggle.

2009

2008-12-10T07:12:00.001-08:00

As 2009 approaches with think of ways to better our next and upcoming year. We think of places we want to see, goals we want to reach, weight we want to lose. But I often wonder why do we wait till January to start these goals. Why not make an end of the year resolution vs. a New Year's resolution?

So here are my end of the year resolutions:

-start being healthy (started last year, but the lack of a trainer makes me a little less motivated)

-take better care of my health (regular doctor visits)

-be a better mother (turn off the LAPTOP)

-be a better wife ( listen to Jonathan more)

-start thinking like an adult

Well that's that for now. "Cheers to the end of 2008"

Bamboo 7 + Hangar 1 + Friends + Laughter = ONE GREAT BIRTHDAY!!

2008-11-28T08:53:00.000-08:00

Many thanks to everyone who came out. A million thanks to the wonderful hubby who took pics all night long. I had the most amazing time. To those who couldn't make it. I wish you guys were there, because it was a damn great spanking time!!!

Enjoy the pics...Click on the image to be directed to the slideshow!

Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T23:16:00.000-08:00

This past birthday celebration made me realize the small things we often take for granted. I had one of the most amazing birthdays so far on Saturday and was able to celebrate with most close friends and family. Throughout the week my good friends took me out to dinner and on Saturday some came out to party. Waking up the morning after the cocktail of karaoke, friends, laughter, and a Hangar 1 Vodka, made me realize how blessed I am to have great friends around me. I swear without the people who made it that night I truly wouldn't be able to get through the craziness of life.

more photos to come...

So going into my next 25 years of life, I want to thank God for my daughter, my husband, my family, my friends, and my heath. Thank you Lord for everything you have given me and for more to come.

Sweet November at 80 Degrees

2008-11-17T17:36:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was probably one of the most beautiful November days I've ever experienced. The weather was so beautiful. It felt like spring.

I tagged along with hubby on his two photo shoots for the day because I wanted to see how he works and how things go along...

He truly knows how to make clients laugh and I think that's super important when it comes to capturing true emotion.

Later that evening we played Monopoly with Airis. Of course we made our own set of rules because Monopoly can go forever. It was definitely a great way to end our busy work day.

Roller coaster ride....

2008-11-10T09:59:00.000-08:00

That is my journey this fall. There are so many things going on in my life that I just can't seem to sort it out. It's kinda like riding a new roller coaster, you're not quite sure where the thrills are going to be or what lies ahead of you. November 4th was a day of major change in this country and well...I think for most of us we need major change in our lives to make things better and set our selves up for the next.

Lately I've highly considered giving up my slight freedom of my beautiful apartment to live at home with my parents. Something that is very hard for me because I've been living on my own with my own freedom for the last 7 years. It's something that I feel is necessary so that I can make some major steps for the future.

I want to buy a house I'm sick and tired of paying rent for something I don't own. As lovely as the concept is having freedom of space, your own place to call your home. If you don't own it it's not worth it especially because I have a child, which I would LOVE to leave something behind for her when I pass, which will be a LONG TIME FROM NOW. Especially during this economy buying homes just isn't that simple any more... and I WANT A HOME, a place that my daughter and future children (yes I want more in the future) can make memories sliding down the staircase bannister, running around the house playing tag, having sleep overs in the living room, movie night in mom and dad's bed. Those are all things that I want to be able to have for them and my current living situation doesn't allow me to do that.

I don't want to make the mistake of not owning a home till my daughter is in high school. It's something I experienced growing up, and shortly after my parents purchased the home, I moved out and grew up. But now I feel like the biggest grown up decision will be to lower my pride, and hopefully crawl back to my parents to save a little bit of money for a larger future!!

Wish me luck...They'll be reading this soon since they get the e-mails of the updated blog feeds!!

Sick...

2008-11-08T08:40:00.001-08:00

Tired and exhausted. I stayed home from work yesterday a first for me since I started working at Ego Mechanix.

I feel better today but my throat is still sore and I have a bit of nasal drip. YUM...

Airis Alexandra Encarnacion

2008-10-27T00:50:00.001-07:00

Can someone please explain this to me...

Today she said...."Shhhh...don't tell Daddy where I'm hiding..." and just giggled the entire time!

She came home from school with blue lips and crazy eye glasses.

The Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-26T11:54:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we got to stay with the Shaw Family. Going to the Usegi Farm Pumpkin Patch in Morgan Hill was definitely an experience. I mean it's crazy...It's almost like going to Disneyland...Almost...not quite...

Here are some favorite pics from the day!! It was Madeline's first trip there...Enjoy

the day that goes down in history as being almost better than Disneyland

2008-10-12T21:17:00.000-07:00

SF Fleet Week was an amazing experience of all sorts. Jon and I took Airis up there to go see the Blue Angels and the Air Show.

Our day started off really early with us heading up to Milbrae to take the BART into the city. It such a fun BART trip as it was our first trip as a family... Airis is growing up so fast and its so amazing to see her smile. Makes me think that Jonathan and I are in trouble when she become a teenager.

After our BART trip we arrived at the Embarcadero Station and started our walk down Embarcadero to Chrissy Field. Okay let me tell you that this walk is a total of 10 miles. What a walk!!!

I will honestly say I was a bit disappointed because I didn't get to go on a aircraft carrier. =( We couldn't even find it, I mean really where do you hide a large aircraft carrier? I guess it was okay because Jonathan wouldn't have been able to go on because of his camera bag. So we stopped by Pier 39 instead, and visited the sea lions. Those things are lucky...All they do is sit and lay in the sun all day while people look at their fat butts!!

It's not very often that Airis can ride a train, see animals, see ocean, the Golden Gate bridge, play on the beach, and have jets fly over your head in one day... It was so much fun and such a great day to share with the family.

October ALREADY?!

2008-10-04T00:36:00.000-07:00

Christmas is two months away... What the heck?

I'm sitting here and watching the wind blowing through the trees and I'm thinking to myself. Have I purchased enough winter clothes or sweaters for this season?

I need pants!! LOL

Hiking in Heels!!!

2008-09-28T21:47:00.000-07:00

Just kidding... Today I took of those 4 inch heels of mine and put on my Nikes and got dusty and sweaty, but it was all worth it.

It took us nearly 40 minutes to get to this place, but it was so worth it. It made me realize how blessed we are to still be alive. Louis Armstrong said it best, "...and I think to myself what a wonderful world."

Enjoy the images, but if and when you ever have the chance to I suggest to go up there and breathe in what the world has to offer!!

09.27.08

2008-09-27T21:24:00.000-07:00

A beautiful week full of sunshine, wonderful clients and a great week of fun filled family time.

I love Saturday evenings because for me its my Friday (my end of the week). Time for me to unwind, relax, and spend time for myself!

I'm currently watching Roman Holiday staring the one and only Audrey Hepburn. I've had this Audrey Hepburn infatuation lately and she is the epitome of beauty and style that is not only timeless, but just full of life and character. In all her movies she

plays such an eclectic character of very strong women whom are all in the midst of finding themselves. For the most part she plays women who are adventurous and tho

se who think outside the box.

I love it...that's all I will continue to drink my champagne and enjoy my movie!! Good night to all...

NEW PHOTOS OF ME...

2008-09-26T22:48:00.000-07:00

I wanted to make a new banner that would go on my myspace page for my blog...WHY...WHY NOT...

People always try to keep up with what's going on and the new things and I'm just tired of the whole "Let's get coffee and catch up" line. It never happens, let's just admit it. You keep in touch with those whom you care most and in reality if you really cared about what's going on with someone else's current events; you'd pick up the phone and call, text, e-mail!! Whatever you're phone can do.

Anyways... courtesy of my hubby of course!! Enjoy!

Please note...Not all shoes were used in this photoshoot! heheh

The Art of Time

2008-09-19T08:41:00.000-07:00

Growing up is a very interesting concept and idea and truth.

It's something that we will all eventually face. It's fun to see some good friends who are now getting married, engaged, buying homes, moving onto grad school, and doing so much in their grown up lives. It's amazing to know what goofy individuals they were in high school and what adults they are now.

One of my good friends is pregnant and I'm so excited for her to join the team mamas!! A few of our other friends are getting married next year and its also nice to see another young married couple.

I think its crazy though. Not too long ago I can remember climbing up the trees with my Godbrothers and running around our neighborhood. What happened to the good ol' days!

Quarter of a Century Wishlist

2008-09-14T19:57:00.000-07:00

I want:

iPod 16GB Nano TEAL or HOTPINK
SABRINA- Audrey Hepburn Film
Holly Golight Eye Mask
TUBE SOCKS
Salt Water Taffy
Kara's Cupcakes
Pom Pom Beanie
Bow Pearl Bracelet
How To Steal a Million
When Paris Sizzles
Funny Face 50th Anniversary Special
Gene Kelly Collection
Hello Dolly
Jollybee Chicken Joy Meal
Mom's Sinigang
White Chocolate Decadence Gelato from Penguin Froyo
Croc Clutch in Grey
Polka Dot Hair Clips
Tyra Boucle Jacket
Knit Tunic w/ Flower Belt
Mickey Tee in Small
Raglan Tee in Grey and Dark Grey
Crochet Cardigan
A facial from Geordie MacDiarmid
A homemade dinner from scratch by the hubby and daughter. NO BOXES!!

A Quarter of a Century

2008-09-13T22:25:00.000-07:00

My birthday is November 22nd and NO, I'm not putting it out there for the world to see so I can get presents... (okay maybe I am hahaha JK)

Anyways, I'm turning 25 this year and it's been a really interesting 25 years. I finished cosmetology school when I turned 19 and began working on my career and building my clientele. Since then it has been an amazing ride. I began working for Rusk, Inc. right after I graduated cosmetology and during my assisting or apprenticing years of my career, which is typically unheard of. Most hair care manufacturers require their employees to have worked at least two years in the industry prior to applying and they took me on right after graduation!! Thanks Rusk. I am a stronger hair stylist because of all the experience and knowledge you have given me.

In the last 6 years, which to most people may not be a long time, I've accomplished so much. I've grown into a person that I never imagined I would be. If you asked me at the age of 17 what do I wanna be when I'm 25-30. I would have told you I wanted to be the 4 inch heel wearing powerhouse woman who dominated any industry she was in. So basically a man in 4 inch Manalo's or Jimmy Choo's. Being the domestic housewife, wouldn't have been my first answer.

Now that I'm married and have a beautiful daughter, I wouldn't change it for the world. I'm still the 4 inch okay maybe 3 inch Fornarina, Miss Sixty, or Diesel wearing powerhouse. My husband and I are in the process of growing a business and following and pursuing his dreams and my own to own a business so it is a very exciting time for my family and I.

In the hair industry, I've been an inspiration to a lot of younger and more experienced stylists, which is so amazing. I've been blessed with a great talent and I cannot thank God enough for it!! When I graduated high school I always knew that I wanted to make a difference. How do I make a difference cutting hair you may ask yourself. Well think about the feeling you have when you get that amazing hair cut or new hairstyle. There's a different kind of bounce to your step. A new and uplifting smirk that you give yourself when you're getting ready to go somewhere. It's almost as if you have higher self confidence after a snippet from a scissor. I remember the first time I felt that way and I loved every moment of it. I felt beautiful inside and out, I felt like I could take over the world!! That is the feeling I hope I could give my clients.

Being a younger mother has also taught me so much. It's tough being a working mother as I'm sure its tough being a stay at home mom as well. Trying to find the balance between love, life, work, and home isn't easy, but it's something that has definitely taught me how to grow up. One of the many advantages of being a mother of a 4 year old at 25 is when I turn 40 she'll be 20 and hopefully in college pursuing her own dreams and I'll be a 40 year old pursuing my leisurely time with my husband!! WHOOO retirement in the Philippines! =)

Well for now that's all I can think of...

Dedicated to Lisa...

2008-09-13T22:16:00.000-07:00

ahhaha...

So I never quite expected my blog to be something that anyone would read on a regular basis, but it's definitely nice that someone wants to hear or read my opinions on life.

So Lisa...this particular blog is dedicated to you...Hope it fixes your craving to read about my mind!!

Just in one year...

2008-09-04T23:10:00.000-07:00

These pictures were taken in late '06...She's gotten so big!!

My mini-me!!!

2008-09-02T20:37:00.001-07:00

image-92
Originally uploaded by jeffrox7

This photo was taken by a good friend of mine Jeffrox T. Jeff T. and I were the only two freaks in our high school graduating year to take up Photography for 4 years. It was definitely enjoyable. A craft that both he and I still take up as a hobby.

With my hubby being a photographer he's never on the other side of the glass. So with Jeff being a great friend I figure he could help get a few snapshots that we needed for a group photo.

Thanks Jeff.

Tell the truth!!

2008-09-01T21:45:00.000-07:00

A good friend mine posted this on her myspace blog and I wanted to share it with the rest of the world!! Enjoy!

It's a Bug's Life

2008-09-01T21:12:00.001-07:00

It's the second day that we've seen this little guy in the bushes at our apartment complex...

It's rare that you see a praying mantis right around your house. Typically you find them at the zoo in the insect cages.

Cran Vodka...

2008-08-31T19:52:00.001-07:00

Everyone has a poison and mine is Vodka on the rocks with a splash of cranberry and a twist of lime.
YUP...Typically those days you need a drink thats all it takes.

Labor Day weekend started off with Jonathan getting his first tattoo...Hehehe okay he didn't get stabbed with needles, but sure as hell he got inked by our beautiful daughter. WHAT AN ARTIST!!

Labor Day weekend was filled with eating and relaxing by the pool. No interruptions by intruders. It was fab!

Jon gets his first tattoo!!

2008-08-31T14:40:00.000-07:00

by the lovely Airis Alexandra.

We started our lovely Labor Day Weekend by making daddy an art board. Here are some of Airis' greatest pieces.

It looked pretty painful if you ask me!!

She makes me smile...

2008-08-27T23:21:00.000-07:00

During our short trip to SF...this was taken by Jonathan at Ghiradelli Square...

POSER!!!!

Do I push myself to the limits...

2008-08-27T07:37:00.000-07:00

I often wonder how much my mind and body can really take in. I find myself constantly doing something, whether it be for work or whether it be for the home business. I just don't know...I get tired sometimes and the moments I stop I start to stress about the future.

Am I doing enough for this family? Is there more than we can do so that we can have a better life?

I often sit and think to myself, "F*&(&!!! what's the next move just to stay ahead."

I'm trying so hard to not life swallow me whole, and keep on swimming to the next paradise and moment of rest.

SF SCOUTING TODAY!!!

2008-08-26T08:08:00.000-07:00

Jonathan has a wedding he's photographing this weekend so today we're scouting in SF for locations...Well he is scouting and I'm getting Kara's Cupcakes and hanging out. I'm going to enjoy my morning off and maybe just maybe the girls of Ego Mechanix will be coming over to hang by the pool.

I haven't heard from any of them yet. So we'll see. I hope it'll be nice to chill out

there with someone!! I don't want to end up going to the gym all day but it seems as if it may happen!

In the end we found what we were looking for!!

Avary Mikaela

2008-08-24T09:51:00.000-07:00

I don't get to see this one quite as much as I do with the other nieces and nephew. But she is loved just the same.

Her name is Avary, she's such a splendid child to be around as well. Its crazy to see how much she has grown from the little girl she once was.

She's so attached to her mother which sometimes makes it hard for us to watch her. ** HINT HINT ** sister you need to leave her more with us!!

2008-08-23T08:11:00.000-07:00

Gianna and Niko at the airport...photo taken by Jonathan Encarnacion. I couldn't really quite say "bye" to them and give them the huge hug they deserved because I knew I would miss them. I'll miss telling Niko I want his eyelashes and him just running away from me and I'll miss Gianna's silly faces and laughter!!

Thank God for webcam. At least we'll be able to see the kids through the interwebs! BUT it's not the same. CHRISTMAS wont be the same with the kids being gone. Airis won't be able to drive anyone crazy or get anyone in trouble. What is she supposed to do now? Madeline is too small to be driven mad!

I just hope that they will be back before Airis' 5th Birthday as it will be a FIESTA!!! SAVE THE DATE May 3rd, 2009!!! The pinata bashing begins!!

This song is dedicated to the kids!!!

2008-08-20T14:57:00.000-07:00

Life always has an interesting way of making sure the destiny that has been laid out for you constantly evolves.

After graduating high school, almost about 8 years ago, I never quite expected myself to be the married mother of a beautiful 4 year old.

I saw myself as the 4" high heel wearing, well dressed, well manicured, fabulous looking hair, prima donna that was high in life with a glorious career of actually working in a magazine as a writer and on top of all that living in a much bigger city.

Yes I guess you can say I had the typical dream of a "small town girl". I guess you can say I've had my share of that. After going to Milpitas High School, and being involved in a program called the Digital Business Program (yes I'm a nerd!!!), a program that was geared towards students who were interested in the buzzing high tech world of Silicon Valley. A few classes that I had taken that really sparked an interest in my once love of graphics design, were my photography class and my Graphic Design class. Those two classes were extremely influential towards my interests of art. Another set of classes that I felt molded me highly were my English classes. We had a great teacher named, Mr. Maples, and he was absolutely amazing. As seniors we took the creative writing class with him and I had the awesome opportunity to write a book as my final project. NO IT'S not published but it was a great thing to have done at such a young age. A lot of my classmates at the time had learned how to play guitar and others just open up their creative minds.

Anyways, back to what I was saying. Those two people in the photo above really have made me a better person and I love them for that. Thank you so much for being such a great influence in my life. Maybe the "dreams" of what I thought I wanted to do never came true. But having an amazing and supportive family of my own has been the greatest adventure ever.

2008-08-19T16:55:00.000-07:00

Thanks Joel Flory...We love our wedding photos!!!

2008-08-18T00:06:00.000-07:00

It's been a crazy weekend!!! I've had amazing clients all week so it always makes my Saturdays the best when my week of work has been extremely smooth at the salon.

Sunday, today or should I say 8 minutes ago was an amazing day. I got to be in the salon and play with color with a beautiful model named H.V. whom 12 First Photography will be photographing tomorrow for our salon.

When I got home after my beautiful color project, I had the opportunity to spend another wonderful weekend with my niece and nephew.

A little history about them is that,

they will be going to the Philippines for 9 long months and will be greatly missed. It was such a nice treat to have them at our tiny little apartment. I love the laughter of children, it makes me feel like all the mess that we are going through in this world can be erased as soon as these children can grow up and change the world. As a parent I feel that it is SO important to spend as much time as you can with your children.

There are moments where I wish I was a stay at home mom or that I could work part time to spend the days with my beautiful daughter. She is in so many ways like me and it so many ways has grown to be the girl she is for the time being.

She's such a ham I swear she is... Just crazy. We barbecued and Jonathan made sliders today...ANG SARAP (DELICIOUS)!!! It's so sad to think that we will no longer be hearing the laughs of our niece and nephew for at least 9 months. So we celebrated their birthdays which wont happen till October and January, but what the hell. Those kids deserve it. They are smart and kind and loving.

2008-08-13T00:52:00.000-07:00

Monterey Bay Aquarium Adventures!!

A weekend filled with crying, drool, snot, poop, and way too many complaints...IT WAS ONE OF THE BEST!!!

2008-08-10T19:40:00.001-07:00

One of the best weekends in the world... we spent the weekend at our sister in law's house because our niece and nephew, Niko and Gianna, will be leaving for the Philippines for about 9 months. So we wanted them to experience one of the best and most memorable weekends they will ever have.

It started with Friday night playing "Green Light, Red Light" "Simon Says" and reading bed time stories.

Saturday:

The kids LOVE Pirates of the Caribbean. When I say LOVE...I really mean they LOVE it like they love Christmas. So what we did for them was a camp out in the backyard with a huge tent and we set up a projector and white sheet and played "Pirates of the Caribbean" for them. It was such an

amazing night. We started by grilling sausages and towards the end of the movie we made S'MORES!!! Thanks to hubby they were delicious!! My daughter and I were lying in the tent and were looking up at the stars and she said to me, "I'm sorry mommy for fighting." (kids fight all the time, and they all were getting in trouble that day) Hearing that made me feel like I was on top of the world and doing something right as a mother.

Today: We just relaxed today. It was a slow morning of just playing and hanging out with the kids, we went to Costco and Safeway, picked up some food and barbecued. Jonathan's famous Jon burgers were devoured by the kids and the adults, well...we're having adult food: NEW YORK STEAK, baked potatoes, and salad. DELICIOUS...

TOMORROW: I cannot wait for tomorrow as it will be a great adventure of going to Monterey Bay with our daughter, Gianna, and Nico...More pictures to come!!!

2008-08-02T18:36:00.000-07:00

Long time no blog...

2008-02-14T17:38:00.000-08:00

New adventures...

Everyday is filled with new adventures and I'm so excited for life...I'm getting married in June, the plans as of right now are done...Which I'm super stoked about. There is nothing more fulfilling than being done with your wedding plans...

Here are the list of my vendors:

Flowers: Shablooms

Photographer: Joel Flory Photography

Hair : Paulo Candido @ Ego Mechanix Salon

Make Up: Ann from Chromesick

Ceremony: Jubilee Christian Center

Reception: Santa Clara Hilton

2007-10-21T22:28:00.000-07:00

A woman's true loneliness...

I was hanging out with some friends the other night and for once I had a night without my daughter and my fiance in my own town. I travel quite a bit for work and I'm used to nights without the two loves of my life, but in the midst of the fun and games and while the alcohol buzz is coming down, I realized an important thing :

My daughter and my fiance make me complete.

I've never been one who is co-dependent on others. I've always been pretty independent when it came to holding my own as well as my emotional feelings. Over time, and I guess becoming a mother changes all that.

My brother was kind enough to take her for the evening and I was nice enough as a woman to let my man, for once, go out of town for the weekend with his friends to watch the races, and even though they both were in the same state and not too far away, I missed them more than ever.

I think there are times when you are a mother and you long for those moments where peace and quiet used to be an every other hour thing to have. And I think as a parent as well you long for those moments where you can live carefree without responsibility as a parent. And then....when that moment hits, the loneliness of not having them around hits too.

Dammit...I love my daughter and my fiance.

2007-10-19T22:57:00.000-07:00

Gossip Girl....

Hi my name is Joanne and I am addicted to Gossip Girl...WTF

2007-10-19T22:45:00.000-07:00

Just when I thought I know what would make me happy in life things start to change for the better.

I started going back to church, not just any church Jubilee Christian Center about 2 months ago and since then things have started to change for the good.

I used to think I knew what would make me happy in life. Money, a car, a big ass house, money...clothes, etc. Then it started to hit that happiness was right in front of me. Happiness was found in the simplicity of my family. One that I have started my own. I find so much more happiness in my daughter's laughter and smile. Her goofy expressions and her joyful laughs. I find happiness in my fiance and his annoying ways of making me smile.

I love it....

Before I go to bed... Here are other things that make me happy....

2007-08-06T21:54:00.000-07:00

I'm bringing sexy back!!!

Last Thursday I started working out with a personal trainer. I've never felt so fabulous!! It's been nearly 4 years since I've picked up a set of weights and I've been trying to get healthy for I don't know over 3 years since my daughter was born. I feel so pathetic not being able to get this excited about working out. It has to be my new trainer.

Ray Vargas of Iso-Tonix Personal Training and Sport's Nutrition. He's not only a great personal trainer, but also very knowledgeable about healthy and fitness all in all. I've had 2 trainers prior to him a little over 4 years ago and I had learned so much in the last 4 days of training with him then I have known in my lifetime about being fit.

I'm so excited. I feel great and it's time I take care of myself. Not only for me, but for my family.

2007-07-31T09:02:00.000-07:00

Our recent trip to Disney was definitely a great adventure. Airis got to meet Cinderella on the last day we were there and the Fairy Godmother. We came here to celebrate childhood memories and create ones for my daughter.

Does my daughter look like me? I think so you like our expressions?

Airis and her daddy waiting for the Tuck and Roll bumper cars ride in the Bugs Life Area.

2007-06-29T21:34:00.000-07:00

FRIDAY....

Exhausting...What an exhausting day. I am so tired. Work was not as frantic and crazy as Yesterday but it was interesting. My day started up with JACKED UP traffic on 880 Southbound towards downtown SJ and it was horrid. There was a bad accident past the First street exit and leaving Milpitas I went less than 5 miles in 30 minutes. BEAUTIFUL. Thank god I exited right before traffic and decided to hit the back roads and test my knowledge of the roads, luckily I found my way to work. I followed the breadcrumbs.

Needless to say I got to work 10 minutes after 11am, meaning I was technically 30 minutes late. FUCK!!! Luckily my client hadn't arrived yet, but we called her because I remembered that she lived in Milpitas or the area surrounding. She was stuck in that traffic too. Good thing we got a hold of her before she got passed the exit I took and I was able to give her different directions to go.

My clients are the best...Well my job is the best. I love how I can come to work and forget my own life. Not only am I able to create a brand new look an attitude for my clients, but they help me to gain a better outlook on life. It's amazing to hear their stories as well as gain advice from them as well...I love it...

I'm so tired...This is how I like right now. Its dark because well I look like shit. I was having such a bad hair day. Horrible. I couldn't deal with it. Trying to grow this damn thing out for my wedding next year is KILLING ME!!!

2007-06-28T08:56:00.000-07:00

Today is a new day and I'm very excited for it. Nothing much to look forward to except my clients and just a fresh start on today. I always feel like every day is a moment to make things better to possibly not make the same mistakes in the past.

This is my new BaByliss Hot Stix, I'm testing it out on myself. Its supposed to be able to give more of that wavy bend look instead of that curled type look. So more texture instead of curl... Lets see how it is. I wanted to find something that wasn't direct heat on my hair like a curling iron. Since its summer and hair gets beat up by the sun, putting more heat just wont do my hair any justice. So Picked up these damn things. I actually found a professional item at Marshall's last nite. I know i know Marshall's but I love that place for its fabulous finds.

Yesterday was a really good day at work. I had a few clients I haven't seen in a long while as well as a new one who was really awesome to work with. She wanted something new and something funky fresh, so I gave her these peek a boo blonde pieces from the from and a really awesome haircut that allowed her to have more movement and that spunk. It was awesome. She was stoked and I was excited that is was quite beautiful.

2007-06-27T09:16:00.000-07:00

This little girl happens to be my life, she's everything to me. Sometimes she drives me crazy, but most of the time she just makes me laugh. I believe in life its important to surround yourself with people who can bring you joy from day to day and this one truly does. Her name is Airis. She sings, she dances, and most of all her laugh is quite infectious.

She's a total Disney freak. We took her to Disneyland for her third birthday and ever since them she can't stop talking about it. I love hearing it though. She talks about shooting zurg and the tea cup party and all the princesses she saw there. I never thought having a girl would be so much fun. She's wonderful!!!

2007-06-27T09:12:00.000-07:00

First blog...I'm not quite sure to write about, but I'm heading off to work. I swear every day it gets harder and harder to style my hair. I'm almost going to say FUCK having long hair for my wedding and just cut it all off...I'm over the growing phase.

Anyways off to work. I'll snap some photos of my every day experience so you guys can all see.