BlogChoa

Joshua Tree

2010-09-30T20:59:00.000-07:00

Last weekend or so ago, Jeff was on a 4 day, and he has been itching to go rock climbing. We have never been to the Joshua Tree National Park, so we decided to rough it for a couple of days and camp in this beautiful rock desert. (Little did we know that it was going to be the hottest weekend ever) See us trying to huddle in the shade:) Travis, Jennie, and Jeremiah joined us. It was so nice to have a playmate for Eli and someone to play Farkle with.
Our campsite was really secluded and had this great little cave area that was shaded for the most part of the day. We sat around in the cave and played games, the boys played with their sand toys and cars, and we also rock climbed on one side of the rock wall and repelled down into the crevice.

Here is Travis repelling down (and Jeff way in the back between the two boulders.)

The rocks were so amazing and easy to climb, even the little boys loved to climb them. Eli went all the way up with me right behind him, and Jeremiah thought he was a big boy doing it too:) THey were sooo cute and dirty.

There was no water or showers at the campsites, so we brought our own portable camp shower, hung it up in the cave, and bathed the kids in a big plastic container that we brought. It was pretty interesting to see how well we could rough it with 2 toddlers. But we did it; it was alot of work, but we had fun doing it.

The Paci Project: Day 1

2010-09-29T22:18:00.000-07:00

This is Eli's first official day with NO paci! We had some few slip-up days, a few tantrums and then giving in by the unprepared parents; but now I mean business. I read up on ideas of how to wean your toddler from their paci, mentally prepared myselffor the torturous journey and began by making a box. Eli loved coloring with markers and placing stickers on the box to decorate it for his new baby cousin, Connor (who will be joining our family in 2 months). Then we went on a trip to good ol' Barnes & Nobles to purchase the No More Pacifier for Piggy book. It is a sweet story about a pig who constantly has a paci in his mouth and can't have a good time with his friend, Ducky, because of his crutch, the Paci! Eli really enjoyed the book, which we read about 4 times today. Before nap we put all of Eli's old, new, borrowed (none were really borrowed, that would be gross:) and Big Blue paci's in the box and sealed it to give to "Auntie Jessica".
And just for reassurance (for me), I slit the tips of all the paci's because I knew when Eli was putting them in the box he was going to try out his favorite Big Blue Paci's and want to keep them. Since they are busted, he won't suck on them.
Anyway, pray that these next few days go smoothly and for Eli to at least be able to go down for a nap, since he could not fall asleep today and was exhausted by bedtime. I'm exhausted as well and must go to sleep. Keep u posted on how he does...

Enjoy Connor :)

100MEDIA_IMAG0113.jpg

2010-08-18T21:59:00.001-07:00

100MEDIA_IMAG0113.jpg, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

Shooting in the Desert

2010-06-25T17:25:00.000-07:00

From 2009-12-10

2010-06-21T22:00:00.001-07:00

Our Tiny Angel

2010-06-06T11:16:00.001-07:00

We welcomed Isabella Faith into this world yesterday, June 5, 2010, at 10:27 am. She was so tiny and precious, weighing 3 lbs. 7 oz. 16.5 in. long. Isabella came out butt first, and once she was out the docs examined her for a minute and then she came right to my chest. Her little squeaks were so sweet, and she looked peaceful the entire time. Jeff and I spent an hour with her before she went to be the Lord. It's funny how I in my thoughts and dreams I dreaded this moment and was so scared, but once I was in it, I can say I was at peace and so proud to be her Mommy. Throughout the happenings of the day, I had the children's song "When I get to Heaven" in my head, and I didn't know why that song came to me, but it has helped so much to think of Isabella singing "Now that I'm in Heaven, I'm walking with Jesus. Now that I'm in Heaven, I see His Face..."

Jeff and I are so blessed to have such a supportive and loving bunch of family and friends who were there to meet Isabella. Thank you to everyone who have been praying for our family. Your thoughts and prayers have been felt and continue to help us through this time.

Eli was able to go to his buddies house to play and have a fun-filled day o playing in the mud with John and Luke. Thank you Shanna so much for taking great care of Eli. We didn't have to worry one bit about him, and once he came to see us in the hospital, he cuddled right up with me and went bobo.

We love and miss you, Isabella!!!

Big Boy Bed

2010-06-03T21:33:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been quite awhile since I posted due to busy life, lost camera, and laziness at times. However, today was a milestone in Eli's life so I had to document. Jeff was home and the guest bedroom cleared out, so we decided to take the crib out of Eli's room and put in a Big Boy Bed.

Eli had to help Daddy work on taking apart the crib

We are starting off with just a mattress on the ground in case he gets crazy and fall's off (i know, it's a little ghetto but hopefully won't be like that for long).

E was very excited and was jumping out of his skin, but when it came time to lay down and go to sleep it took many books and songs to keep him laying down.

Eventually, I had to leave the room because he would not stop moving, which led to crying for a split second and then probably 20 minutes later was sound asleep. All in all, the first night was a success. Now we just have to see if he stays in bed all night long?

Sleep sweet my Buggy boy!!!

New Toy: for Daddy or Eli?

2010-03-10T21:35:00.000-08:00

Today when Eli and I got home, Jeff presented Eli with a new toy he picked up at the store while we were gone for the day. I think Jeff has been perusing the Nerf gun aisle at the stores ever since he found out he was going to have a son; so today, Jeff finally fulfilled his dream and bought Eli a 20 shot automatic tommy gun. The gun is as big as Eli, the darts shoot out at lightning speeds, and I'm pretty sure the developmental age on the box says 6+. Nevertheless, Eli (and Jeff) are in Nerf gun heaven, and I have darts all over my house:)

Creation Website

2009-11-15T12:12:00.000-08:00

http://www.drdino.com/media-categories.php

Pumpkin Patch Kids

2009-10-23T21:14:00.001-07:00

Today, on our Fabulous Friday Friendsies, we took the kiddos to the pumpkin patch in Long Beach which is like a pumpkin patch meets a carnival. The babies were to little to appreciate it, but Eli sure did enjoy himself some train rides and petting zoo fun, plus the Mommies got some pretty cute pics:)

Eli was pretty excited to see soooo many pumptins

He wished he could ride on the rickey cars.....

but he did get to ride on the train, yeah

Boys trying to figure out how to get into the chicks barn:)

Sophia was awed by the chicks

Jennie and Jeremiah

Jessica and Sophia

Me and my little Buggie playing around and throwing hay everywhere

which Sophia took the brunt of...oops;)

I don't think Eli was too happy about leaving, but we had a great time and all kids put up with our million pictures...I love fall!

18 Months Old

2009-10-17T11:42:00.000-07:00

This month, Eli turned a year and a half. He amazes me with all of the new words he is trying to master and all the new things he is doing. 18 months really is a huge developmental milestone. He had his checkup, and he is 24 1/2 lbs. and 32 in. long, which puts him around the 40th percentile. Movin' on up! Eli has become aware of the doctor and developed fears. He cried just being weighed. But all in all, he is a healthy, growing boy.

Here are a few highlights of my son who thinks he owns the world :)

Eli has learned to be sweet and gentle with his baby cousins, and tries to help when they are crying.

Eli got his first real, big boy haircut. (I just didn't know what to do anymore with his wild mop)

He throws big its and hangs on me so I can't walk away....

which then leads to the "snotty" chair, i mean naughty chair :) He has learned to sit and stay in the chair until I come over to hug and kiss him.

Eli is doing really well in swim lessons , and it seems like he is actually swimming when he goes from step to step.

One of his many words now is pumpkin, or I should say pumptin.

This is a list of words Eli can say: (i've never really counted to i'm going to make a list to see how many words he has in his vocabulary)

1. NO, his favorite word. 11. Aqua 21. Pease, for Please

2. Mama 12. Auntie 22. cwacka, means cracker

3. Dada 13. Truck 23. cookie

4. Papa 14. Caw, for Car 24. duck

5. Nana 15. Boat 25. plane

6. Momo, for our cat Merlot 16. Pumpkin 26. cheese, meaning the food or the camera

7. DewDew, for his freind Drew 17. Moof, for movie 27. chip

8. Choo-Choo, when he sees a train 18. Apple 28. golf club

9. Nack, which means snack 19. Jesca, for Jessica 29. yogit, for yogurt

1o. Juice 20. Addi 30. outside

and now he really tries to say whatever you say.

Wow, time really does fly...I love you Eli and can't wait to see all of your new adventures thru life.

End of Summer fun

2009-10-14T12:27:00.001-07:00

I was recently going through our camera and found a bunch of pictures that i meant to put on here but haven't. It's just a shmorgishborg of fun stuff we have done in the last few weeks:

Playdate with DrewDrew sporting the cool new hats for the fall season :)

Going to Mother's Beach during the heat wave at the end of September

Playing and sharing toys with friend Julia

Taking a trip to California Adventure, again during the heat wave in Fall, so we had to play in the water...

Eli is not to sure about the balloon ride in A Bug's Life land.

One of our weekly rountines when we don't know what to do, THE MALL!

Hungry for some Chorizo

2009-10-14T12:24:00.001-07:00

1014091058.jpg, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

eating a nick's breakfast burrito after swim...yum

Up, Up, and Away...

2009-10-10T21:20:00.001-07:00

1008091826_0001.jpg, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

travis, jeff, and eli up in the air (they got about 50 feet up until I couldn't stand it and wanted Eli back safe in my arms)

Eli going up in Uncle's bucket truck

2009-10-10T20:56:00.001-07:00

1008091825.jpg, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

Eli was a very brave boy and went almost all the way up in the bucket truck, but i was too nervous so I made them come back down.

Italy

2009-09-04T23:19:00.000-07:00

2009-07-28T13:40:00.001-07:00

watchin' Noggin...Moose A. Moose is hypnotizing:)
jeffo

0718090927a.jpg

2009-07-18T13:14:00.001-07:00

0718090927a.jpg, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

i hope this is a phase

Introducing my new nephew, Jeremiah

2009-07-04T10:14:00.000-07:00

Last week my sister in law, Jennie had her baby boy, 7 lbs. 15 oz. She labored for a very long time and finally after a terribly long day in the hospital, the doctor decided to get Jeremiah out through a C-section. Jennie and Travis did amazingly well and now Eli has a boy cousin to beat up and play with :)
Here is the link to see pics of the little man: http://keaheyfamily.blogspot.com

Purse Party

2009-06-25T14:36:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!!! Sorry it's been sooo long since my last blog, but i've been super busy these last few weeks. However, this Sundaythe 28th, my mom, Cathy Culaciati, is hosting a purse party at her house. The party is an open house starting at 1:00 pm and it goes until 5:00 pm so you can come at anytime. I have one of these purses and I love it. It is super cute, big and roomie, and it can be used as a purse/diaper bag. Come and enjoy some refreshments and fun times with the ladies :)

Sleep Over

2009-05-11T21:07:00.000-07:00

Eli had his first sleep over with his buddy, Drew, last weekend. Drew's parents went to a wedding, so the Ochoa's had the pleasure of watching Drew over night. I went a little crazy with capturing every moment the two buddies spent together, here are a few:
First, we started off with a game of "Which toddler can fit the most puffs in his Mouth?"

It was a close call, but I think Drew was the winner :)

Next, the boys played all around the yard.

I think since it was Eli's stuff, he thought he could rule over everything; But Drew was ever so polite by handing everything he had in his hand over to Eli. What a good boy!

Drew discovered the delights of a Paci...I don't think he ever put that one down.

Finally, the following morning when the boys woke up, Eli was sooo excited to see his friend was still there to play with him.
But Drew was looking a little worried when Eli was going for his puppy.

I think this was a start to being Best of Friends, and I have discovered that Drew is the perfect friend for Eli.

2009-04-22T18:06:00.000-07:00

Our First Home

2009-04-07T20:17:00.001-07:00

I think He's got It....

2009-03-27T10:05:00.000-07:00

Eli is pretty much walking every chance he gets these days. It looks as if he has learned how to keep his balance by watching how a Gorilla walks...:)

How Big is Eli? Sooooo Big!

2009-03-23T08:17:00.000-07:00

Eli Walking for a Split Second

2009-03-20T22:36:00.000-07:00

I caught Eli walking for a brief second. I will post some better ones soon...

Bikes and Boats...

2009-03-17T19:59:00.000-07:00

Since Eli is such a Big Boy now, he has been doing all sorts of cool things, and since he gets extremely bored around the house, we like to get him out and about as much as we can. Our two favorite outdoor things to do are: bike-riding and Disneyland. Eli loves to go on bikerides to the park.

Disneyland is becoming alot more exciting with all the new rides we've been on. I think the Carousel and Small World are Eli's 2 favorites.

See how he shows his Excitement ;) He was just not that into at that exact moment, but he really does love it.

Sophia Renee

2009-03-11T20:22:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the World Sophia

2009-03-07T21:32:00.001-08:00

0306091313.jpg, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.
My new niece Sophia Renee

Here are pictures of Sophia at one day old...

Proud Aunties, Jenny and Julie

Uncle Jeff seeing Sophia for the first time

A Shmorgishborg of Pics...

2009-02-26T20:38:00.001-08:00

Well, it has been an entire 2 months of No postings, so this one is gonna be a doozy! I am just going ot put slideshows of pics that we took from different events in December, so enjoy and I will try to keep up with the times :)

Great Great Papa Culaciati Article

2009-02-17T17:56:00.000-08:00

This is Eli's Great-Great Grandpa Culaciati who lived to be ninty something years old. He traveled over here from Italy when he was 14 and lived in San Francisco, CA.

Baby Addison

2009-02-01T09:04:00.001-08:00

Baby Addison, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

Bust-a-roo outside in the morning

2009-02-01T08:17:00.001-08:00

Bust-a-roo outside in the morning, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

downsized_0131091146.jpg

2009-02-01T07:36:00.001-08:00

downsized_0131091146.jpg, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

Hit my head on rig. Two staples. Stupid

I've been Bad!!

2009-01-14T20:58:00.000-08:00

I have been neglecting our Blog and have tons to update with but find no time at the end of the day, so I'm apologizing and will put some pics. up by the end of this week. Ciao!!

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas...

2008-12-10T20:52:00.000-08:00

This is the gate we bought to go around the tree.

This past Sunday was one of those relaxing days, when you don't get dressed until the afternoon and just decorate the house for the holidays.

While the guys hung Christmas lights outside

my Mom and I were inside putting up the tree and other decor.
Eli really enjoyed all of the lights and new toys, I mean, decorations around the house:) I love this time of year!!

Fight On!!!!

2008-12-07T17:44:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, we spent the day at my Aunt Janie and Uncle Terry's home for the annual USC/UCLA party. We had a great time spending time with family, eating to our hearts content, and occasionally watching the game to find out the score. Like usual, we didn't get lucky when it came to buying squares. Jeff, me, and Eli were big losers, but we had a fun time anyway.

UCLA vs. USC

Yeah!! We Won!

And to end the evening, Eli was willing enough to be the girls baby doll;)

Our son at the Park

2008-11-30T20:53:00.001-08:00

Our son at the Park, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

Enjoying the park

I must've been out of my mind...

2008-11-28T23:29:00.000-08:00

I was reading up on Eli's age development and what 7-9 month olds most likely will be accomplishing. One of the milestones during this time is showing an interest in feeding themselves or eating finger foods. Hmmm...I thought to myself, Eli hasn't really shown interest in feeding himself, or maybe I haven't given him the opportunity to try. You may ask yourself, Why have I not given my child the opportunity to learn and grown through feeding himself...

Hear is the answer to that question:

I don't think he is ready yet?!

Merry Christmas

2008-11-27T08:28:00.001-08:00

Me and My Boy

2008-11-27T08:20:00.000-08:00

Life is Good

2 little Monkeys jumping in the Crib

2008-11-09T22:41:00.000-08:00

Eli had a play date with Mady, a big girl, and he loved her. They had tons of fun playing with toys, crawling all around, wrestling with each other,

telling secrects

They are like two very active peas in a pod and will be best of friends, just like Mady's dad and Eli's mom.

Jennie and Travis' Wedding

2008-11-09T22:21:00.000-08:00

The day after Halloween, November 1, 2008, Jeff's little sister Jennie got married on the beach. It was a small, intimate wedding with family and close friends. We had a great time and Eli did wonderfully during the ceremony; he looked so handsome in his first little button down shirt and suit jacket.

Sarah and Eli the Giraffe

2008-11-09T21:54:00.000-08:00

I know it's about a week late...Eli's first Halloween was not very exciting, but we got some cute pics. First of all, we were out all day shopping and getting ready for Jeff's sister's wedding, which was the next day. So Eli did not get very good naps, and by the time we got him ready in his costume that evening he was pooped; but not too tired to take a picture with Sarah Palin:)

We walked over to one of the neighbors house, Eli got his first candy and thought the wrapper tasted delicious, and then fell asleep.

Punky Pie at the Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-27T22:41:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, we took a little day trip to an authentic Pumpkin Patch in Ramona.

We went with a few friends, had a picnic lunch, walked through the corn maze, and took tons of pictures of Eli with the pumpkins. It was about 100 degrees outside on this particular Fall day, so to my disappointment, Eli would not be dressed up in his Giraffe costume; but he still looked darn cute!

After the pumpkin patch, we went sifting through a thrift store on the Main St. of Ramona, which looks like it came straight out of an old western, and got some screamin' deals. They are pretty fashionable in good ole Ramona. Don't ya think so?:

Bunches of Firsts

2008-10-23T21:41:00.000-07:00

I apologize for not posting in such a long time. Jeff has been posting pictures but doesn't say much, so I will inform you of all the happenings thus far. A couple weeks ago we went on our first family vacation post Paramedic school. We decided to go camping in San Diego. Campland by the Bay is not exactly "roughing it", but anytime you tent camp for 5 days with a 6 month old is roughing it!
Let me just say that our Saturn Vue was so packed down that we had to tie our bags to the roof, and I didn't sleep the entire time. Besides the night time, Eli was a great camper and had alot of fun on our outings to the Zoo and Sea World. This was the week of a bunch of firsts: Eli camping/sleeping in a tent, Eli going to the Zoo and Sea World, Eli eating carrots and drinking water from a water bottle...Here's a little slide show of our week:

We got back from our trip just in time for Eli's 7th swimming lesson and for a doctor's visit. Eli now weighs a woppin' 16 lbs. 6 oz. and is 26 1/4" (He's about average, maybe a little under in the weight). He is healthy and happy!!

More updates: Eli is now mobile, crawling all over the place and just recently wanting to pull up and stand on everything. He is quite the dare devil!! Now when I go into pick him up from his crib I see this...

How could I resist that cute face!

I'm sure I'll be posting again very soon, since it seems like Eli is doing something new everyday, Bye!!

The Kids

2008-10-18T19:52:00.001-07:00

The Kids, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

Uncle Justin

2008-10-18T19:46:00.001-07:00

Uncle Justin, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

Our beautiful Friends

2008-10-18T19:44:00.001-07:00

Our beautiful Friends, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

jeffo

Camping in San Diego

2008-10-09T17:35:00.001-07:00

Camping in San Diego, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

Finally an Ochoa family vacation.

Cute as a button

2008-10-06T16:27:00.001-07:00

Cute as a button, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

Relaxing on sunday

2008-10-05T15:31:00.001-07:00

Relaxing on sunday, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

Me and my dad enjoying the sunday

My son is growing up so fast.

2008-09-30T19:56:00.001-07:00

My son is growing up so fast., originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

We had such a great time at the condo.Eli love the pool and enjoyed being in his float, but he like it alot more to be in the pool with mom and dad.

Cellphone Test Post

2008-09-30T13:35:00.001-07:00

Cellphone Test Post, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

hey mom and jenny

my son

2008-09-30T13:15:00.001-07:00

my son, originally uploaded by oxygenfire111.

eli

Eli Swimming

2008-09-29T19:52:00.000-07:00

2008-09-27T21:44:00.000-07:00

2008-09-16T08:55:00.001-07:00

2008-09-15T23:04:00.000-07:00

OC Fair

2008-09-11T18:21:00.000-07:00

Remember this another friends tradition at the pig races

Happy Birthday Papa Culaciati

2008-09-11T18:14:00.000-07:00

Loving Grandpa's

2008-09-11T18:13:00.000-07:00

Almost Done

2008-09-11T13:08:00.000-07:00

Here is me and my boys graduating from paramedic school. Almost over, still have to take the National Registry.

2008-09-11T13:05:00.000-07:00

Fun Day of surfing with my Dad and Alley. My shoulder still hurts I need to get into shape. Here is Ali's Eye after he hit his head on the surf board.

Swimming and Teething

2008-09-03T21:48:00.000-07:00

Well, it was officially Eli's first swimming lesson today. He did amazing and I think he impressed the swim instructor. What they did today was floating on the back to get Eli used to laying with his head back in the water. He didn't cry until the very end of the session, and I think he was just tired and done with the water. Next session, Eli will begin to learn how to roll onto his back.

I think Eli has been teething since birth or so it seems. He is a non-stop drool machine and is constantly gnawing on his hands, toys, my shoulder...basically anything is fair game. Just recently, thanks to a friend from work, I tried an ice cube in these little feeding nets so Eli can gnaw on it. He loves it, and it works great!! Thanks for the tip, Judy ;)

I KNOW, IT'S BEEN AWHILE...

2008-08-20T15:53:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't kept up on my posting but it has been busy around here with me starting back at work and keeping up with Eli. So let me get you up-to-date:
Wednesday, Eli had a doctor appt. and amazed me once again with how well he takes his shots. Not even a fuss this time! He is 4 1/2 months, weighing in at 14lbs. 7 oz. and is 24 1/2 in. long. He is around the 40th percentile and still very healthy and happy:)
...Soooo Big!!

Oh, and apparently his feet are the big winners right now.
Who needs toys!!

Last week, we had our first trial run for infant swimming lessons. Eli loves the water, but I think he was a little hesitant with all of the other little "screamers", I mean swimmers that were around. Hopefully when he starts his sessions there won't be that many kids. Basically, the instructors teach infants and toddlers how to save themselves if they fall in water and can't swim by rolling over on there back and floating.

The instructors are so sweet and gentle.

Eli did not like laying on this floaty

Paramedic School Is almost Over

2008-08-14T21:58:00.000-07:00

I am going to graduate from paramedic school next month scheduled for Friday, September 5, 2008, at 3:00 PM. The ceremony will be held at the UCLA Neuroscience Building Auditorium located at 635 Charles Young Dr. South in Westwood. There will be a dessert reception immediately following the ceremony. Everyone is invited just let me know so I have a head count. I will Post more info later just wanted to let everyone know.

View Larger Map

MAP

Eli meets Kennady!

2008-07-22T16:05:00.000-07:00

Today, my good friend Jaime came over to visit with her husband Tom and daughter Kennady. Jeff and I have known Jaime since Kindergarten, and it just so happened that we got pregnant around the same time.

Kennady and Eli were supposed to be one week apart, but Eli decided that he wanted to be late while all of his other buddies were early. Kennady is 3 weeks older than Eli, and they were instant friends. Eli couldn't keep his hands off of this cute little girl. Kennady knew how to handle it by kicking him:)

Holding Hands....AWWW!

Annual Ochoa Camping Trip

2008-07-22T15:59:00.001-07:00

Every summer, Jeff's parents go camping at the beach in San Onofre. This was Eli's first time at the beach and camping in an RV. I thought that it would be hard for him to sleep in this new environment, but again he amazed me. The camping trip is always alot of fun; especially playing/winning dominoes and making Brown Bears around the camp fire:)

Elijah's Dedication...a little belated!

2008-07-22T15:31:00.000-07:00

Eli was dedicated at church a couple of Sundays ago. He did amazingly, stealing the show and hamming it up for the whole church. I guess he likes to be the center of attention:)

After church, we had family and friends over for a BBQ/Birthday celebration. Eli got really nice gifts, as well as some $$$ to put into his savings. Thank you all for sharing this day with us and for spoiling Eli with such wonderful gifts. We Love you!!

Family Photo

Culaciati Fam

Eli Loves his Great-Aunt Janie:)

Elijah Getting Dedicated

2008-07-06T09:27:00.000-07:00

We are dedicating our son on July 13th at Long Beach Alliance Church Everyone is invited. We Will post more details soon.

Long Beach Alliance Church

3331 Palo Verde Ave
Long Beach, CA 90808

http://lbac.org/

View Larger Map

-jeff

Happy 4th of July!!

2008-07-05T12:38:00.000-07:00

Well, it was Jeff's favorite holiday and Eli's first 4th of July. As a family, we went to Grandma Ochoa's and walked over to Jeff's Aunt Lisa's for a BBQ. It was really fun hanging out, playing pool, and meeting baby Gracie for the first time (she is 10 days old).

Eli did really well around all the people and he even fell asleep on his own and stayed asleep during the fireworks, Amazing!!

He looked pretty, dang cute in his outfit:)

Eli's in the 50th% club

2008-06-25T16:21:00.000-07:00

Today was Eli's (almost) three month check-up. He is now a wompin' 12lbs. 2 oz. which puts him up in the 50th percentile, Yay!! He also had to get his first vaccine, which he took like a man. Of course, I had a pacifier with sweeties on hand just in case;).
Eli has not had any severe reaction to the vaccine, Thank God!!

How do you feel Punky Pie??

He's been sleeping most of the afternoon. 'Til next time....

Eli travels to the Magic Kingdom

2008-06-23T20:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Jeff and I went to Disneyland to with our friends Jake and Erika. It was Eli's first time riding on the tram, going on Pirates of the Caribbean and listening to Billy Hill and the Hillbillies play:)

He did really well considering the heat wave, but he chilled in his fort of a stroller

I think this is our first family picture, waiting in line for Pirates.

Eli seemed to enjoy the ride under my hooter-hider, since I nursed him the entire ride.

I was very excited to renew our Disney passes, so this was one of many more fun times we will have throughout the year at the Happiest Place on Earth.

Housesitting and Walks in the Park

2008-06-14T14:54:00.000-07:00

For the last couple of days, we have been house-sitting for our friends while they were away. It was nice to spend some time with my two boys; we did our normal everyday stuff (feed Eli, play, nap) but we also laid out by the pool and went out to dinner.

While I took care of this little guy

Jeffery watched over this little guy and tried to be Ceasar Milan(the dog whisperer)
Maxi was probably so relieved when his parents came home:)

Today, we went for a walk in the park and brought tons of old bread and snack mix to feed the ducks. the ducks, coots, pigeons, and squirrels had a hay day with all of the food we brought. It was pretty exciting, especially when the squirrels would come take the food out of your hand.
Here is one of the millions that would come out from the holes in the ground.

Apparently, Eli did not find it too exciting!

Eli's got a Girlfriend!!

2008-06-03T14:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we went to visit our friends, Ben & Jill, who just had a baby girl 6 days ago. Julia is so tiny and precious. I can't believe how much Eli has grown in 7 weeks! It is hard to remember him being so small. It was a fun night of eating pizza, watching a movie, and breastfeeding!:) We were glad to meet Julia...

These are the first of many more pics. together, and I'm sure Ben's pics. are so much better!

2008-06-03T13:53:00.000-07:00

Shift Calender

I will be on the A shift "RED" days starting on the tenth of this month. You can download calenders and print them out.

2 month Doc Visit

2008-05-28T19:44:00.000-07:00

This morning, Eli and I got up early to get ready for Eli's well baby check-up. He was very good this morning, like he is every morning, but at the doctor's office we were waiting a while to be seen. So I tried to keep Eli moving and entertained, but he showed the doctor how impatient he can be.

This is what he thinks about doctor visits...

Eli weighs 10 pounds and is 22.5 inches long. Doc says that he is in the 25th percentile. He's just a little guy; look at his parents! After the long doctor visit, we went to visit our friends, Cori and Drew. We had a little play date, which our sons slept through the entire thing.

Eli really had a good time and loves Cori; we just caught him on a bad day!
Next play date we WILL get a picture of the little buddies together!

Happy B-day Pizonne!!

2008-05-27T12:29:00.000-07:00

Today is Justin's birthday which we celebrated this weekend.

We went out to dinner at Finbars Italian restaurant,

and then went back to Justin and Steph's to watch the UFC fight. It was Eli's first fight experience and it was very loud, but he didn't seem to mind.

He was just amazed that there was two of him!!
We had a great time and were out way too late; I was exhausted.

Happy Birthday Auntie Jess and Jen!!

2008-05-19T09:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a full day and we were out of the house the entire day, Yeah!!!
First we went to church. It was Eli's first time and he was on his best behavior.

He slept throughout the entire service.

Afterwards we went out to lunch with a group of our friends and then went to the Ochoa Grandparents house for a birthday BBQ.

Auntie Jess with her favorite nephew. It's her actual birthday today: Happy Birthday to You!!

It was a fun-filled day of eating, hanging out, watching a movie, and going for a bike ride.
That was fun until we were attacked by a pack of wild chihuahas.

Auntie Jules is still tramatized:)

Baby Shower

2008-05-10T23:33:00.000-07:00

God has bless us with so much. I want to thank you for all the wonderful gifts. It is wonderful have family and friends that care so much about us. Our family is privileged to have such a loving group of people to love and take care of us thank you so much.

love,

The Ochoa Family

Jeff, Andi, and little Eli

New Pictures

2008-05-08T22:33:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Jessica!!!

2008-05-08T13:59:00.000-07:00

Last night was Eli's first Big Party! We went to my Uncle Brian and Aunt Rosalie's house to celebrate my cousin Jessica's Birthday/Coming Home/Graduation Party. Jessica graduated with her Masters in Acting from the University of Tennessee, and our entire family is so glad to have her home. The party was a blast, and Eli did wonderfully. He was on his best behavior and slept the night away. Of course because he was being held the entire night and everyone was ewing and awing over him, especially his Aunt Rosalie, Jessica and Audria.

Eli's Getting Chunky!

2008-04-30T16:27:00.000-07:00

Eli is already 3 weeks old. He had his second doctor's appt. to check his weight on Wednesday. He gained almost a whole pound and weighed in at 7 lbs. 10 oz. I'm sure it was a combo of the beer and the feeding on demand; I was very excited to see that he is beefing up a bit :).

Eli's HAPPY too!

L00k at those cheekers!!

Oh and I didn't post on it Tuesday but we had a family outing, and it was Eli's first trip to the mall. We got his picture taken which we will get in a week or so, and he did wonderfully. He did not cry or fuss at all. I was amazed! He was a natural.

(i'll post pictures in a bit; Eli's new thing is not sleeping so i get nothing done. Yay!!)

Pictures for Mom

2008-04-24T23:28:00.000-07:00

Ordering Pictures of Eli Online

2008-04-23T14:26:00.000-07:00

Our family, as you already can tell, is using technology to communicate and stay in touch. All of our pictures can be ordered online through our Picasa sites. The links are below or you can also click on the picture on this page and it will take you the site. You then can click on a album or picture and order it by clicking on the "Order Prints" button. It is located on the top center of the album view or on the right center on the picture view. After you have selected pictures to order, you can view your order by clicking on the "View Order" button on the top right of your screen. Then make a final selection of pictures you want, follow the three steps on the side and 'voila' you are receiving pictures in 3 to 5 business day.

Love you guys.

Jeff's Picture Album

Andi's Picture Album

Eli's 1st Doc Appt. & 1st Bottle

2008-04-23T14:10:00.000-07:00

This morning Eli went to his first doctors appointment for a check up. He is two weeks old today. Everything looks good, other than he is not gaining weight like he is supposed to. He weighs 6 lbs 13 ounces so pray that he starts gaining weight. The last few days he has been kinda fussy but today he is doing great. Daddy gave Eli his first bottle this afternoon and he loved it! He adjusts very well to change:)
Grandma Culaciati is on a mission to make my milk supply rich and full of calories so Eli will start gaining some weight.

Here is her remedy to bring in a plentiful milk supply:

Supposedly, The Old Wives' Tale is that the hops and yeast in Beer helps with your milk supply.

Me and My Son

2008-04-19T15:01:00.001-07:00

A Day in the Life of Eli

2008-04-19T07:08:00.000-07:00

Cry, Eat, Sleep, Repeat.....

One Week Old Fiesta was more like a Siesta

2008-04-16T11:59:00.000-07:00

I Can't believe Eli is already 1 week old. He's growing up too fast! :). To celebrate this special day, Great-Papa Culaciati and Mary came over to visit, as well as Uncle Aaron and Great Uncle Brian and Aunt Rosalie. It was a Culaciati get together!

(with the exception of cousins Jessica, Andy, and Audria, Eli can't wait to meet you!)

For this special day, we celebrated by sleeping the day away!! That's pretty much all you do. Jeff was off from school, so we all took a long nap together in between visitors.

Here is a picture with Nani. (She made it to the blog)

4 Days Old

2008-04-13T21:56:00.000-07:00

A Day in the Life of Eli

I'm Awake for a few minutes...I fuss and snort when hungry...I burp after I scarf down

and crash out on my Dad...

Life gets pretty tough living here at Nani's house! There is always someone holding me, visiting with me, and taking pictures of the neat things I do. For instance, trying to accomplish sucking my entire hand.

People who came to see me today were: Grant, Melissa, and Maddie. Madeline is tons of fun and
will teach me alot of cool stuff.

Later, Alan came over to hold me and I was completely relaxed.

Eli: Day 2 at Home

2008-04-12T12:41:00.000-07:00

Eli did his usual nap and nap for most of the day. Jeff wanted to go for a walk, and it was such a beautiful day out. We bundled Eli up and put him in his stroller for his first walk.

We walked across the street to the park, but we were not gone for very long because mommy was a little sore. Eli did not enjoy the bumps of the stroller, so he was carried for the walk back. Our good friends Josh, Aidan, and Kathleen came to visit Eli

Here's Aidan in his House of Cushions

Later that evening, Grandma Kathy and Grandpa Ralph came to visit and brought some yummy food! Thanks for the Chicken Pot Pie. It was a hit!!

First Night Home

2008-04-11T10:46:00.000-07:00

Last night was not to bad. Elijah ate and went to bed around 9 pm. About 11:00 he woke up and cried. It took about an hour or so to get him comfortable. We think his stomach was upset because he had alot of gas. From then on it was feed, cry, sleep. He slept on me (jeff) for a couple of hours around 1 am or so, but for the most part all he wanted was mommy. We love you guys and want to thank you for all your love and support. We probably had over 60 visitors during our stay at the hospital. It makes us very happy to know that we our bringing our son into such a loving and caring family. Thank you agian! We love you and look forward to bringing up our son with all of you.

-jeff
I'm glad to be going Home!!
Auntie Jessica visited me at home.
Me and Dad pooped from a long day!

Here is a video of Eli's first bath the following morning. He seemed to like the warm water when poured on his body, but cried during the washing part. Overall, the bath went very well.

All Clean and Eli loves his Arbonne Baby Wash!!

Induction Day or So We Thought

2008-04-08T22:48:00.000-07:00

Finally, this day is here!! However it went a little differently then planned. I awoke in the middle of the night, at about 1:30 am with a contraction. I tried to fall back asleep, but I got another contraction. I woke Jeffery up and decided to start timing them. At first they were about 10 or so minutes apart, but about an hour later, they started coming about every 3 minutes or so. We decided to get up and get ready for the day.
We left for the hospital at 4 am, arriving and checking in at 4:30. By the time we got in our room and situated, the nurse checked me and I was 5 cms. dilated.

(During a mild contraction) (Wanting the Epidural)

I was amazed I was already that far along. I remained 5-6 cms. for about 2 hours. At 8:00 am the doc broke my water and that's when it became intense. My contractions started coming stronger and I was getting the urge to push. I broke down after not getting any rest between contractions, and thinking I still had 4 cms. to go, so around 9:15 I asked for the epidural. By the time the anestiolgist came in and explained the procedure, it was too late. I kept saying "My body is trying to push" at each contraction. The nurse checked me, and I was 9 and a half cms.
I began holding my breath and pushing at about 9:40 am, and Eli arrived at 10: 06 this morning.

(Right after he came out they put him on my chest.)
It was amazing!!! Eli is a perfect 7 lbs. 6 oz. and 20 1/2 ins. long.

(Proud Papas: Great-Grandpa Culaciati and Grandpa Culaciati)

Here are Eli's first visitors back in our room

Yet another Doc. Appt.

2008-04-07T15:30:00.000-07:00

This morning I went in to get monitored for the second time. Eli was pretty mellow and sleepy, but his heartbeat and fluid level are still perfect! My doc said that I am a tiny bit more dilated (almost to 2 cm) and 90% effaced (thinned). So I guess I am progressing, just very slowly.
My induction appointment is official! If Eli does not come out today or tomorrow, then I will be induced on Wednesday the 10th at 6:00 in the morning.

Celebrating the Life of Brent "Lovey" Loverin

2008-04-04T18:31:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, I attended the funeral for my brother firefighter, Brent Loverin. A sad moment for all LAFD firefighters. He will be greatly missed.

http://www.knbc.com/news/15795156/detail.html?dl=mainclick

Fetal Monitoring

2008-04-03T16:15:00.001-07:00

Today I went to the hospital to be monitored to make sure Eli is doing well. They hooked me up to the monitor, which measured his heartbeat and any contractions that I might have had. The reason why Eli is overdue is because he is way to cozy in my belly, the nurse had to wake him up to get some activity on the monitor. Once he was awake, he was moving around, the heartbeat was strong, and then the nurse did an ultrasound to check the amniotic fluid levels. She said that the amniotic fluid looked good, and Eli was in the right position. Unfortunately, she could not tell how big he is at this time, but if I don't have him by Monday, I have another appointment to be monitored.

Eli's Room

2008-04-02T18:15:00.000-07:00

This is the room that will become the nursery. Jeff emptied it out one night when he was "nesting" and then we had it painted to go with the Noah's Ark theme.

As you can see, Merlot (our cat) has taken to this room and thinks every little comfy spot is hers. She has tried out the crib, the changing table pad, the rug, the rocking chair, even the baby bath tub. She is going to get a rude awakening when Eli is here.

Eli's Room. It is basically complete, but we are still in search for shelving to put on the bare walls. This is the one decorative shelf that we have (pic. on the left), but it doesn't hold much. I still have to put some things away that are in boxes and organize a little better, but it's ready for him to move in Ü.

What the Doc Said

2008-04-01T19:09:00.000-07:00

Today I had a doctor's appointment. It went well, but things have just stayed the same. I am 1 measly cm dilated and still no contractions. Some good news, though; the doc said that if I don't have this baby by April 9th then I will come in that day to be induced. I really don't want to be induced so pray that Eli comes soon!

I'm New & Ovderdue...

2008-03-31T21:25:00.000-07:00

Hi, I'm Andi, and I've officially started a blog. I'm a newbie at this blog stuff!!

Today is March 31st, and I am one day overdue. Our son, Eli, is going to make us wait a little longer to be parents. Nothing but Braxton-Hicks going on in my belly. We will keep you all posted with pictures and news on Eli's arrival as it comes. But for now, I am trying to be patient while Jeff massages my feet (it's supposed to help induce labor) . Hehe!!