Where The Wild WALLACE Things Are!

Books Full of Memories

2010-06-11T08:58:00.000-07:00

Recently we installed a bookcase in our upstairs loft. Well, David Honey put it together and installed it. I loaded it. With my BOOKS...lots and lots and lots of books. They had been in the garage just waiting for their moment to return to the big house.
As I removed each book from their storage box,dust filled my nose and memories flooded my mind. Memories of my little ones on my lap as I read "Good Night Moon". Giggling toddlers hearing the words "Everybody Poops". Preschool mom's wiping tears away as I read "Love You Forever" at a Mother's Tea. Growling little boys pretending to be the King of all Wild Things, Max. And the ultimate lesson of revenge not really being so sweet in "The Little Mole Who Went In Search of Whodunit".
I love my books so much, but I have waaaaaay too many of them and soon I must go through and thin them out! Perhaps some will go to my children's children and some to the goodwill. But wherever they go, my hope is that they are loved and new memories are made.

Some Books I recommend for you, for your children, for fun:
The Secret Garden
Any book by Robert Munsch
Jane Eyre
Little Women
Wuthering Heights
Twilight Series
Harry Potter Series
Sookie Stackhouse Series
Noel Stretfeld Books

"The Piano"

2010-05-22T21:56:00.000-07:00

LAHS Dance Production, "The Piano", May 20, 21 & 22, 2010.

You've Got A Friend

2010-05-21T14:26:00.000-07:00

When your down and troubled and you need some love and care
And nothin, oh nothin is goin right;
Close your eyes and think of me and soon I will be there
To brighten up even your darkest night...

What a bright night it was Saturday! As a birthday gift my son Evan took me to see two of my verymostfavoriteintheentireuniverseandeternity people...legends really...
CAROLE KING and JAMES TAYLOR! LIVE at the HOLLYWOOD BOWL! TOGETHER!!! TROUBADOUR REUNION TOUR!

It was one of the most incredible nights of live music I have ever experienced.
As JT and CK stepped on the stage my eyes filled with tears and when my ears heard the first notes on the ivories and strings, the sound resonated deep into my heart.

A friend described Carole King as 'elegant' with her gray curls and James as 'the guy next door'. Just a couple of friends of mine I replied.

I have LOVED these two musicians for most of my life. In fact, my first ever concert was in 1973 at the Shrine Auditorium. James Taylor. One Man Dog Tour. My second ever concert (yes, we called them 'concerts' back then...you call them 'shows' today)1974 at the Great Western Forum. Carole King. Tapestry Tour.

To see them together on the same stage singing the same songs together (did I mention they were there TOGETHER?) was almost more than I could take! I cried through so many of the songs and joined CK and JT in singing even more!

Before the concert, we picnicked on the curb, enjoyed wine and each others company and people watched. Once inside the bowl we discovered we had incredible seats and of course we were surrounded by like minded CK/JT fans. But THE best part of the evening for me was being there with Evan and sharing a part of my youth with my son.

Thank you Evan for one of the most memorable nights of my life. Thank you for sharing it with me. I love you!

You just call out my name and you know wherever I am
I'll come runnin - to see you again
Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall, all you have to do is call
And I'll be there yes I will.
You've Got A Friend.

May 13, 1985

2010-05-13T11:00:00.000-07:00

Today is Evan James Wallace's 25th birthday. Happy Birthday Evan!
Evan is my 2nd oldest child of 4 and my 2nd son.
I couldn't be happier that his dad's teeny tiny SPERMIE made it's way through the hidden valley to the EGG inside me marked "EVAN". Evan's egg.
Evan James Wallace
Born May 13, 1985
11:31 AM
8lbs 8oz
Rather large head, if you know what I mean.
Love you Yay Yay. Have a Happy Happy Birthday. Smoochies, Momsie xoxo

Meema Maggie and Peepa Ralphie meeting Evan James for the first time...

Evan always loved his naps...and his hats...

Proud of my boy...
To Infinity and Beyond!!!

Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-11T16:48:00.000-07:00

I am honored to be called Mother, Mom, Mommy, Momma, Mama, Momsie, Toad, Betty...and maybe even someday...Grammy...
Thank you for making Mother's Day 2010 so special kiddles!!! love you!

MEMORIES...Light The Corners Of My Mind

2010-05-10T11:18:00.000-07:00

I grew up in Orange County, CA in the 1960's and 70's. What a great place to grow up - amusement parks, the beach, restaurants, great weather!

When it came to grocery shopping we had our choice of Alpha Beta, Lucky, Hughes, The Boys Market ALONG with Ralphs, Stater Bros and Vons. You could get your prescriptions filled AND and an ice cream cone at Thrifty Drug Stores. Need clothes, shoes, housewares, fabric or eye glasses? Choose from White Front, Zodys and TG&Y. And don't forget GEMCO - a membership store that had housewares, clothes, groceries, tools...you name it, GEMCO had it. Hardware stores? LinBrook and Builders Emporium come to mind. Need to grab something quick? Then you probably stopped at the Tic Toc. If you wanted to purchase a large appliance or television, then Sears and Roebuck was the place to go! Shoes? Thom McAn! And to find quality goods and service, you shopped of course at The May Company and maybe had lunch in their Tea Room. Those days also marked the opening of the FIRST Pic N Save (now known as Big Lots.)

Yep those were the days. Pee Chee folders that we 'decorated' and 'doodled' on; giant clown heads at Jack in the Box that we YELLED our fast food order at; metal lunch boxes with a glass thermos. FREE Admission into Knott's Berry Farm - you could ride the Merry Go Round, feed the Sea Lions, see a melodrama at the Bird Cage Theater and be amazed by how much candy there was at the Candy Parlor! There was an admission fee to get into Disneyland BUT it didn't include the rides. Remember the ticket books?

Strips with cheese at the beach, Bell Burgers at Taco Bell, ice cream and milk shakes at Fosters Freeze. I even remember my first McDonald's Hamburger. House of Pies was around then, as was the Hollywood Wax Museum.
Everyone went to school with their neighborhood friends, homework and housework were both completed by dinner time (5pm) and we went outside to play after dinner.

There were dairies and strawberry fields and orange groves. There was smog and leaded gasoline. No central air or heat in most homes and we only had one bathroom for our family of four. No dishwashers or microwaves or home security systems. Helmets were not required to ride a bike, and seat belts and car seats were not required when riding in cars. You were free to smoke just about anywhere and everywhere (including elementary school offices, restaurants, bank lobbies etc.) and even while pregnant! There were no computers, video games, cell phones, Ipods, rechargeable batteries, pads with wings, wonder bras, lap band surgery or Starbucks.
Things have really changed. Some for the better, some not so much. But I am happy to have the memories...

The Trams Have Doors?

2010-05-02T22:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I spent the 18th anniversary of my 35th birthday (do the math yourself) at the Happiest Place on Earth, Disneyland.
After parking the car we made our way to the loading area for the trams to be transported to the entrance to the parks.
And that is when I saw them and had an epiphany...the trams have been retrofitted with DOORS. Doors.
I have been riding the Disneyland trams for the majority of my life. I have never fallen out, never dropped a bag. I have always seated my children in the middle of the bench seat and kept my feet and hands inside the car at all times. I have removed my children from their strollers before boarding and I have NEVER sat on my husbands lap because lap sitting is only for small children.

Our society has grown increasingly undisciplined. This lack of respect for rules, laws and safety puts EVERYONE at an increased risk for harm.
Evidence of our society's lack of discipline can be observed in many ways - parents transporting their babies in strollers on escalators, grandmothers 'driving' ECV's (Electric Convenience Vehicles) with their grandchildren on their laps, using a cell phone while driving.
It is simple really. Follow the rules. They are there to keep you and others safe. Follow the rules because I don't want to be a victim of your lack of discipline.
The trams have doors. I feel so much safer now.

My Birthday

2010-05-02T21:06:00.000-07:00

BEAUTIFUL Birthday at the Happiest Place on Earth with my favorite peeps....my hubs and kiddles!!!

In front of the FAMILY HOME...

On my FAVORITE Ride...Indiana!!!!

MOJITO TIME!!!

HAPPY 21st BIRTHDAY DYLAN MARK

2010-04-26T15:34:00.001-07:00

APRIL 27, 1989
Dylan Mark Wallace
8.8 pounds, 22 inches
Big Brown Eyes, LONG Eyelashes, GREAT LUNGS!

Happy 21st Birthday Baby Boy!

Cherish the thought of always having you here by my side;
Cherish the joy, you keep bringing it into my life;
Cherish the strength, you got the power to make me feel good;
Oh baby I'll perish the thought, of ever leaving-I never would!

I love you Dylan...smoochies, toad xoxo

April 24th, Brown Eyed Girl Day!

2010-04-23T15:11:00.000-07:00

6 years ago tomorrow, April 24, 2004, Zuzu's Petals, my brown eyed girl, became a member of my family.
Happy "Welcome to the Family Day" Zuzu! I love you so much!
Enjoy some photos of my beautiful brown eyed girl!

SPARKS FLY

2010-04-17T12:55:00.000-07:00

Recently a 'friend' on facebook sent me a message stating we should no longer communicate because our views are too "divergent" and the causes I support make her... "uncomfortable."

She should be uncomfortable. Suicide, bullycide, discrimination, inequality, civil rights....these are causes and issues that SHOULD make EVERYONE uncomfortable! Unfriending people and burying your head in the sand does NOT make these issues go away. And divergent? It is by listening to others and their 'divergent' views that we learn and grow. When we look at things from another persons perspective, with an open mind, we may find ourselves becoming enlightened. We may also find our own beliefs and convictions strengthened.

She concluded her message to me with "and are you involved with a church family?" Thank you for asking! I am involved with a wonderful church family - the GLOBAL church family. I love, serve and pray for this family everyday.

This is not the first person to unfriend me on this social networking site, nor do I believe she will be the last. It is interesting to me that in every case, every unfriending, has been at the hands of a person of faith. And I can't help but feel badly for them. For their sad, dark, small, fearful world.

This situation and each one before it and those yet to come have strengthened my convictions that I am indeed doing exactly what I am supposed to be doing. Loving, serving and praying for people. Lighting fires under people. Causing them to think. Sparking change in their world.

Let The Sparks Fly!!!

Day of Silence

2010-04-17T12:50:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, April 16, 2010, was the National Day of Silence. Young people across the country participated in this GLSEN sponsored event to raise awareness of the forced silence of the LGBT community by ANTI-LGBT bullying, harassment, name-calling etc. My daughter participated at her high school and endured the ignorance of others. I participated in my own way by NOT posting or communicating on Facebook or Twitter for 24 hours. Our hope is that the silence creates awareness. What will you do to end the silence?

MY WORLD IS CHANGING; IT'S REARRANGING.

2009-12-02T10:33:00.000-08:00

CHANGE. Is inevitable. Leads to growth. Growth is good. They say...

I have a tendency to be resistant to change - I don't really like it. I like to do the same things year after year on holidays; I like to watch the same old movies repeatedly. I like the OLD Jungle Cruise boats and Swiss Family Robinson Tree House and I miss May Company and Bullock's and Buffums and the Broadway Department stores! And don't get me started on the grocery stores! I like to sleep on the same side of the bed every night. It is comforting. It is my world.
But things change. My world is changing. It is rearranging.
I resisted learning to drive, setting up an answering machine in my home, using a computer and cell phone. Today I have a 130 mile daily round trip commute for work, my answering machine has been replaced with voicemail and I am tethered to my imac and my iphone! I keep in touch with my kids, loved ones and friends via texts and emails and I use Evites (electronic invitations!)
Mother's pass away and Father's remarry - adding more names to my Christmas Card list (and email addresses!)
Children that once needed someone to wipe their noses and bottoms are now young adults - purchasing kleenex and toilet paper for their own home!
A son breaks up with his girlfriend - leaving an emptiness in my heart that only time and more change will fill. Change that I resist.
A son that brings so much laughter into our home, is found at home less and less. The house is so much quieter these days...
A daughter that once played in her grandmother's high heels now wears high heels of her own. And looks great in them!
Thanksgiving - a time for family to be together, was for the first time in 27 years, a time when my family was NOT together.
Friendships that were as solid as rock for years begin to crumble into pebbles, then into sand and then disappear in the wind. Winds of change...

Change. Things change. Seasons Changes. People change.

My world is changing and rearranging. And although I am not the most willing participant in this makeover, I keep trying. Because CHANGE IS GOOD. Right?

The Amazing and Amusing Costco! (or how Beckie amuses herself while waiting for the hubs!)

2009-08-21T09:54:00.000-07:00

As I waited ever so patiently in OC for the hubs to finish golfing last night I was drawn to the local Costco for frozen yogurt. As I strolled through the warehouse with my yummy treat in hand (and my iphone in the other) I was struck by the assortment of strange, amazing and wonderful things available for purchase! And then it happened - the BRAINFREEZE - right in front of a 2 foot tall LAVA LAMP. 2 FEET TALL! Gazing as though I were in a trance at the glob of gloop moving ever so slowly in the Lava Lamp, the giant 2 foot tall Lava Lamp, my brainFREEZE became a brainSTORM! "People must see this! They must see the strange and wonderful things you can purchase at Costco! Costco is more than just giant jars of mayonnaise! You can have the giant Lava Lamp of your dreams!" And so for the next hour and a half I amused myself by taking pictures of the strange and wonderful in Costco! Enjoy!

Your home is not complete without the GIANT 2 FOOT TALL LAVA LAMP.Availabe in two color combinations! Red/Purple and Green/Blue!

SCARY!!! A Ginormous SKULL that begins laughing a very spooky laugh and flashes red eyes when you move close to it! EEK!

No, these are not peppers...this is a specialty citrus tree! The 'Fingered Citron' is commonly known as 'Buddha's Hand'. The fragrance is wonderful and very strong. But that Buddha has some scary skinny fingers goin on!

Such a cute little red leather chair! So comfy! I'll take two!

And a comfy chair of another kind...a throne if you will...this toilet was just sitting out in the middle of the aisle. I refrained from lifting the lid...

Keurig Koffee MaKer...one cup at a time! I was amused by this. ONE cup of coffee at a time in a store that sells GIANT LAVA LAMPS.

Books about Cooks....and Books that help you Cook

4 pound can of Chicken of the Sea! WOWIE!

And you can even pick up some men that serve...and some serve yourself men! They were the dessert, er I mean, in the dessert aisle! Those silly paramedic guys always looking so deelish!

The final item of my amazing tour of Costco, the item that took my breath away right there in the garden center, the item that would make my friend Sam curse at it's sight on this 20th day of August 2009...

FROSTY THE SNOWMAN! And it's beginning to look strangely and wonderfully like Christmas!
I just crack myself up!

The Second Installment of..."Thank God"

2009-08-06T12:01:00.000-07:00

-----Original Message-----
From: Rebecca Wallace
To: ________________
Sent: Wed, Aug 5, 2009
Subject: Re: Harvey Milk Day....Action Required!!!!

Dear ____________

I applaud you for standing up for what you believe... even though we may not always agree. However I take exception to your statement that I attacked you. In no way did I attack you or anyone else, that is your perception. And I cannot change that for you. I simply stated that the misinformation in the email was hurtful to me and my family.

You are right -you don't know me. I am a woman that loves her children, loves her family, loves others and loves God.

It's late and I need to go to bed, but I will leave you with one last thought - My son did not choose his sexual orientation any more than I chose mine or you chose yours. He is what God created. And I am thankful that God chose to give him to me to raise and love.

Take care,
Beckie Wallace

And the fearfully ignorant sheep's reply:
Subject: Re: Harvey Milk Day....Action Required!!!!

I agree God created all of us, but God in no way would create something or someone
with a sexual orientation that was an abomination to him. He created man and woman
for a reason the way they naturally fit together and complete each other. I have found
nothing that states God creates something that is an abomination to him and against
him, he's loving and would not do that to someone, it's a choice, free will.
He warns us against all the abominations to him in scripture, he would never make one
of us that way, that he is against. It is a choice outside of God's creation.
My only problem with what you did is you sent it to everyone that My Mother sent it
to instead of just telling her your feelings. I am hurt my mother is loving and kind
and I will always love protect my family. God Loves us all and we need to teach
our children right from wrong, God's scriptures not what the world says is okay.
Too many things get twisted into what is okay and what people are willing to except.
We love our family no questions asked unconditionally just like God loves us.
I just can't believe that the awesome loving God I know would ever make a child or
anyone with anything that he has set apart in scriptures as an abomination.
That is what it says over and ov er, believe me I have searched to try and understand.
I believe God doesn't make mistakes, so why would he make ones of us with something
that is against him. I have prayed for answers a lot on this subject and have had many
discussion with many groups to try and understand and ask God for answers, to understand.
I am always sent back to my scriptures, so at this point, I have searched for answers, because
I always want to be fair. I am fair, understanding and love all, I just think if they try and take God
out of our schools, why is it okay to put this in it. Children are too impressionable and need
structure and guidance, it's a confusing enough world.

Thank You for your time and sorry for any hurtful words and I too try to
understand what God's plan is for my life and to always try to understand
what it is I suppose to know. I know I do air with spiritual caution for myself.

Thank You
____________

Thank God!!!

2009-08-05T09:04:00.000-07:00

I am just a mom that loves her kids, loves her hubs, loves her family and loves her friends (FRAMILY!)

Recently I received an email from a person that I have known for many years - a person I communicate with on a regular basis and have a friendly relationship with. But when I opened this email I was brought to tears. The information it presented was hurtful, directly affecting my family and friends. Statements were made in this email that were completely false, much like the YES on 8 propaganda (read lies) we were all subjected to. I wrote what I felt was a kind and gentle response to the sender of the email with a 'reply all' because there were many people on the distribution list receiving this inaccurate information including at least one other person that is the parent of a gay child.

My intent in responding to the email was to gently remind folks that misinformation is hurtful, that my family and I were hurt by the words, the tone, the inaccuracies and the judgment in the text of the message.

I don't know why I was surprised when I have received a less than kind message from one of the 'reply all' folks - a response that was in fact judgemental, misinformed and ignorant on so many levels. And yet, the writer claims to be a loving Christian.

I have included the emails here, leaving out the names of the two people that sent them.I have posted them exactly as they came to me. Typos and misspelled words etc. Read them for yourself.

Once again I thank God that in His wisdom he gave Dylan to David and me to love and raise. He is a blessing in our lives. I am so very grateful that Dylan was not born into the 'loving Christian home' of the person that responded to my email.

I will continue to stand up for what is right, accept and love others, speak boldly and provide support and protection when necessary. It is what I do. It is what I was put on this earth to do. And I will continue to do it as long as have a brain that functions. You betcha.

Original Email I received:
Please pass this on.....
I called and got a busy signal and immediately redialed and got a busy signal, but on the 3rd redial, I got right in. Take a moment and vote. It took me 30 seconds or less
_________________
Hi Friends,
Gov. Schwarzenegger is being pressured more from all sides to sign this bill.
If signed, SB 572 would pressure every California public school to have an official Harvey Milk Day promoting the homosexual, bisexual, and transsexual agenda to children as young as kindergarten. The sky is the limit on what a school considers suitable commemorative exercises. This is written so broadly, SB 572 could allow gay-pride parades on campus, cross-dressing, and homosexual marriage dramas, etc. It all going to come down to how much pressure California 's governor feels. Remember, last year the Democrat-controlled Legislature passed Harvey Milk Gay Day, but Schwarzenegger vetoed it.
This year, Schwarzenegger is being lobbied more heavily by homosexual activists. Sean Penn, who played Harvey Milk on the big screen, and Milk's homosexual activist nephew, have both personally lobbied Schwarzenegger to ask him to sign SB 572. Other differences from last year is that there are four more Democrats in the Assembly voting for Harvey Milk Gay Day. And for the first time, a Republican, Senator Abel Maldonado, is supporting this anti-traditional family value bill.
This call will only take about 30 seconds to complete.
Call Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger at 916-445-2841. Listen to the recorded message and press in the following order:
1 (English)
2 (legislation)
1 (SB572)
2 (against)

My Response to the sender:
Hi ___!

I hope you have had a wonderful summer!! Are you ready for the new school year? The beginning of school seems to come earlier and earlier every year! I really do miss all of you and all of the hustle and bustle of the school site!

I love getting your emails, and hope you will continue to send me your stories and jokes and important info. However, this particular email was hurtful to me personally and to my family. I know it was not your intention to hurt anyone, but sadly, it has. To begin with, much of what is stated in the email is false. But on a more personal level, I have a gay son whom I love very much. I am very proud of him and the person that he is and look forward to what he will bring to our world in the future. My hope and prayer is that one day our society will accept him the same way I accept him. David and I love and support ALL of our children 100% regardless of their political beliefs, their faith, their gender, their sexual orientation etc. So when I read false information that directly affects a member of my family and ultimately hurts my entire family, well, it just makes me sad.

This wasn't the first time and it certainly won't be the last time our family is hurt out of ignorance. And many times I just let it go. But this email affects more people than just me and my family - There is at least one other parent of a gay child that I know of on this email's address list. And that is what compelled me to write this note to you.

Love ya ___, take care, and have a wonderful first day of school!
smoochies,
Beckie

Response from someone on the distribution list:
Beckie:
I don't know who you are. I don't know why you felt the need to send me an
email that you send to ____, my mother. I'm highly offended you send this to
me and all the others at my mothers expense. If you were only interested in
responded to ____ you would have done that, but you sent it to everyone and
that tells me what kind of person you really are. I am sick & tired of gay being
shoved down my throat at every turn in life. I HAVE NO PROBLEM with
peoples choices in life, just don't involve me or my loved ones or innocent children.
I am a Christian and believe in God's Word all the way back to the Old Testament.
He clearly states in black & white what it was to be then and now, what was right
and wrong. That way no one could say it is confusing. It was the same when he
had scripture wrote as to now, it never changes. I'm with a lot of people who want
schools to be concerned with teaching the basics, not anyone's beliefs or lifestyles
of choices. Basically leave our children alone. There is enough horrible stuff in this
world and a young mind is impressionable. There is nothing ignorant about knowing
what it right & what is wrong, try to explain it all you want, have all the excuses
and it is what it is, all the stuff I've read and tried to get my brain around, I've seen
and heard both sides and it just doesn't work. Maybe it works in your life and that
is great, we're happy for you, but don't try and tell me you are not an angry
woman by the words in your email, I'm just sorry you felt the need to drag me
into this. Like others who drag us into and won't leave it alone. Have your choices, stop
with putting it in our faces in every aspect of life. Love your child leave the rest of us alone
and don't preach what is ignorant, because a lot of us have looked at all sides
and we know the truth.

Before I was a quite person and especially about God. Now days I stand up and tell people
how I feel because, they obviously have no problem with shouting their beliefs and I'm tired
of seeing what this country has come to. So now I speak of God and his grace and love
speak out when people try and to change my government, society & morals just because it
suits their life style.

I will be nice, since you attacked me. I will only send this back to you not everyone.
I will pray for you & your family, because you really aren't okay with the way things
are for yourself & family.

Thank You
_______

RALPH CONRAD SHELTON, My Daddy

2009-07-30T10:41:00.000-07:00

My daddy is the sweetest, kindest and most gentle man I know. He is tender and loving, sensitive and generous. I love him very very much.

My mom passed away in 2004 after 50 years of marriage, a loving marriage to the end, leaving my dad alone and with a broken heart. I had serious doubts about whether his broken heart could be mended.

Although he is by nature somewhat of an introvert - shy really - and was dealing with an enormous sense of grief and loss, sadness and loneliness, he went on living each day. He attended birthday parties, holiday celebrations, dance performances, plays, family dinners, graduations and more. My love for and pride in my dad grew each day as he took care of himself physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually; in the ways he remembered my mother; as he developed his own interests - dancing, reading, the history channel; as he worked to improve his computer skills; made home improvements; took dance lessons; researched his family history; accepted and loved my children unconditionally.

When I was small, I would stand on top of my dad's feet and dance with him, snuggle on his lap, and listen as he read aloud from a storybook. When I was a teenager he helped me clean out my closet on countless occasions, took me to buy my first bra and taught me to drive a stick shift. As a young woman he walked me down the aisle at my wedding. As a new mom he rocked my crying babies to sleep. And as a grieving daughter he hugged me as if he would never let me go. He drove me to school, to meetings, to work. He supported my whims and my fancies. He even made me breakfast in the morning on school days (and now he makes me the best mimosas!) I just love my daddy.

One evening in January of this year I received a phone call from my dad to let me know he was going to do something he had not done in over 50 years. He was going out on a date with a lady. With Roberta. I had not yet met Roberta, so he sent me a photo of her via email. I don't know what was cuter. The picture of Roberta or his giddiness and happiness at the mention of her name. After that, Roberta and my Dad were practically inseparable. Holding hands as they walked, going to the movies together and out for meals. Just adorable.

My dad recently celebrated his 75th Birthday and we held a party in his honor. It was at this party my dad made a special announcement. He and Roberta were going to be married on November 14, 2009. From across the room, through my tears of joy, I could see his beaming smile as he stood in front of his friends and family and told everyone that he loved Roberta, that she loved him and they were going to spend the rest of their lives together.
Roberta has filled an empty place in my daddy's wounded heart and it is beginning to mend. And I couldn't be happier for him. For both of them.
Love you Daddy and Roberta. Happiness and Love to you both always. becca

Happy Birthday David Honey!

2009-06-19T12:37:00.000-07:00

June 20th

Happy Birthday to You!
Happy Birthday to You!!
Happy Birthday Dear David Honey!!!
Happy Birthday to YOU!!!!
Cha Cha Cha!!!

I hope your special day is filled with happiness and joy!
Happy Happy Joy Joy!

smoochies, bec

What Would They Do?

2009-06-19T12:08:00.000-07:00

It really shouldn't be a part of being a mom, being taken for granted, but it is. It seems to be a part of being a wife too. And sadly, it is even a part of being a friend.
One would think that at my age, after 32 years of marriage and being a mom for 26 years, I would have grown accustomed to it. And for the most part I have, which is probably the problem! That I have accepted it as being a normal part of my life as wife/mom/friend.
I realize I have made the mistake of accepting being taken for granted or being taken advantage of as the 'norm'. That I have seemingly ignored these hurtful words and actions or even worse, the lack of words and actions of those that I love so much.
How many times have I heard myself say "I have had it" or " I am done" or "I quit" or "I am taking a break". Such empty words conveying such empty threats. And everyone knows it.
What would happen if one day - one moment, out of the blue, my words - my threats were not empty?

No June Gloom - CELEBRATE!

2009-06-17T12:06:00.000-07:00

CELEBRATE Birthdays! My Robbie, Brian, Laura, Stacy, David, Katie and Gayla all celebrate birthdays during the month of June! Happy Birthday to all of you! Parties, presents, refreshing beverages, dinners, breakfasts, cakes and pies! It goes on all month!

CELEBRATE Graduations! Evan and Katie graduated from Cal Poly Pomona with Bachelor of Theater Arts degrees! Congratulations! Oh the Places You Will Go!

CELEBRATE Just Jack's Adoption Day!
So thankful he wandered onto my school campus 4 years ago! My sweet puppy!
Love you Jackie!

CELEBRATE PRIDE! June is National Pride Month, so named by former President Bill Clinton. Even my very conservative company recognizes Pride month. Put on your Rainbow boa and fly your freak flag!

CELEBRATE Dads! Father's Day is June 21st! Our family will be in Victorville at the Huck Finn Jubilee (or Hick Funn Jubilee as I fondly refer to it!) celebrating Father's Day with a picnic, pie, bluegrass festival, clogging, live music, and beer in comfy chairs in the shade of the trees. David will try to catch some ZzzZzzz's between running sound for the dancers!

The clouds may be in the sky, the drizzles may find their way to your windshield on the way to work and you may even find yourself a year older. But don't succumb to the gloom.

CELEBRATE EVERYTHING! CELEBRATE EVERYDAY! CELEBRATE!

DISGUSTED

2009-06-01T20:10:00.000-07:00

Day of Decision. The Supremes hand down their ruling upholding Prop 8, essentially legalizing discrimination.

Day of Decision Part 2. The Supremes rule that 18,000 same sex marriages are valid.

The murder of Dr. Tiller. Shot down in the lobby of his church as he was serving as an usher. KILLED in the name of LIFE.

A newborn baby girl left in a QVC box on a road in Florida. Unwanted and abandoned, left on the side of the road like garbage. The baby was found alive, covered in ant bites.

Disgusting. We should be ashamed of ourselves.

BIGGEST LOSER! DANCING! DAY of DECISION! COLLEGE GRADS! MEMORIAL DAY! HOUSE REMODEL! POWERHOUSE!!!

2009-05-28T15:05:00.000-07:00

Once again it has been a whirlwind of activity for our family! They don't call us the Wild Wallace's for nuttin!

I would like to start by announcing that "I AM THE BIGGEST LOSER!!!" Yes! I am a big 'ol loser! I lost the greatest percentage of body weight than anyone else in our Biggest Loser Challenge! So, not only do I weigh less and I am healthier, I won MONEY!!! Can you say...new clothes??? Well, maybe when I get down one more pant size...

Meaghan's dance show was last weekend and it was glorious! She performed in four dances! Her energy, smile and sweet dance moves light up the stage! And...her class ring was delivered to her last week. It is beautiful! She designed it herself, and just loves it! Wait, did I say MEAGHAN received her CLASS RING??? Yes I did...she is completing her Sophomore year and will soon be a Junior in High School! My baby! I cannot believe it! We enjoyed a quiet Memorial Day at home, with just Meaghan and Dylan. Tri Tip was on the grill along with corn on the cob and strawberry shortcake for dessert! As we enjoyed our deelish din din, I was reminded of the countless young men and women serving our country away from home and those that fought and died for my safety and freedom. I am profoundly grateful.

Day of Decision. The Supremes did NOT surprise me with their ruling. They did however disgust and disappoint me. To allow discrimination to be voted in to law is appalling and downright criminal. Legalized Discrimination. The Supremes had the opportunity to make a statement that discrimination in any form is WRONG. But they didn't. They did however leave 18,000 marriages intact. For that I am thankful. But isn't that just the height of hypocrisy? It is legal for some but not for all? Separate is not equal. Our community will not stop until full and equal rights for all are won. And that includes MARRIAGE.
Dylan and Evan are moving toward the end of their school year and Evan along with Katie will be GRADUATING from Cal Poly in June! How proud is this mom! My little drama dweebs are gettin an edumacation!

Austin and Dennice are working tirelessly on their home. New windows, window blinds, can lighting, tree and stump removal, new block wall fence, siding removal, new stucco and exterior paint. It is really looking beautiful! I hope we will soon be celebrating all their hard work with a Housewarming Party!Shortly, Dylan will be on the road for the summer with POWERHOUSE!!! Professional Percussive Dance Troupe. This energetic group of young people will amaze you! They are performing at the following Fairs this summer: Ventura County, San Joaquin Valley, Alameda, Big Fresno, Santa Barbara County, Nebraska State and Kern County. Hope to see you at the Fair!

CELEBRATE!!!

2009-05-17T08:39:00.000-07:00

Whew! It has been a WILD three weeks!
My baby boy Dylan turned 20 years old on April 27th. Birthday 'EVE' included dinner at Polly's Pies with our Framily Brian and Robbie, and per Dylan's request, Chocolate Cream Pie. The Birthday DAY brought his girls over to the house for more celebrating and Birthday Strawberry Shortcake.
A mere four days later was my birthday. I decided this year I would take the day off work and celebrate myself! My day included Disneyland, lunch at Shenandoah followed by Mani/Pedis with Meaghan, WOLVERINE (mmmmm) with Meg and David Honey, then Frozen Yogurt with Meg, David, Brian, Robbie and Bessie! It was a beautiful day MY way!
The following Sunday took us to Knott's Berry Farm for Champagne Brunch with the whole fam to celebrate Dylan, Evan and my birthdays!
Our next party was one week later... Mother's Day weekend! Barstow, Bob's Big Boy, Calico, Clogging then home for dinner at Tio's!
Evan's birthday, May 13th, was the final stop on the Celebration tour! David, Meaghan and I joined Evan and Katie at Disneyland. Photo ops, dinner at the French Market, then the rides - Haunted Mansion, Indiana Jones and Space Mountain. We finished the evening with some shopping on mainstreet then home. 24. Can Evan really be 24 years old?
What a wonderfully wild rumpus we had celebrating! Next month...Father's Day, David and Katie's Birthdays! Let the Wild Rumpus continue!

Miss Bailey Sutton

2009-04-27T11:19:00.000-07:00

This morning, April 27, 2009, at approximately 3:20 am, I lost a very special friend. Miss Bailey Sutton.
Bailey was beautiful. She had the sweetest brown eyes and the kindest face. Every time I saw her she filled me with warmth and happiness.
Sometimes Bailey would play with me , sometimes she would just sit by me. But always she gave me love.
Bailey was the beagle daughter of my sweet framily Brian and Robbie and my heart aches with and for them.
Bailey had a musical bark that I just loved. It was music to my ears as she greeted me with it and ALWAYS made me feel welcome. She had this cute little way of begging -Brian and Robbie call it 'Kangaroo Paws'. And she was so smart! She had a comprehension of language beyond that of most dogs! She tolerated being dressed up, she even allowed me to put a tiara on her. She was the worlds greatest baby turtle finder! And she knew how to unwrap presents! Not just tear them apart, actually unwrap the paper. It was amazing. She was amazing.
She loved her 'babies' (toys) and loved to play fetch. She loved her Dingo bones. She loved to take walks. She loved her special place on the back of the chair where she could see out the front window or take a nap. She loved her sister Bessie. She loved her Papa and Daddy. She loved everyone she met, and they could not help but love her.
I saw her for the last time yesterday, around 5pm. Little did any of us know she would only be with us for less than 12 more hours. She greeted me with her music and gave me puppy kisses and snuggles and followed me out to the backyard. She helped me open my birthday gift! She seemed perfectly perfect.
Bailey gave me a wonderful gift yesterday - a blessing really - time spent with her. I was able to love on her and get loved by her, one last time.
Bailey brought sunshine and comfort when times were dark and she gave love unconditionally to everyone she met.
I love you Bailey. I miss you.

Puppy Kisses, Auntie B xoxo

FRIDAY! FABULOUS FRIDAY! FINALLY!

2009-04-24T08:39:00.000-07:00

Finally it is Friday. My FAVORITE day of the week. And a very special Friday indeed!

This week found me swimming in many different pools of overwhelming feelings and emotions. Feelings of PROFOUND SADNESS at the news of yet another 11 year old BULLIED TO DEATH; FRUSTRATED by a scale that doesn't seem to recognize my diet and exercise efforts; STRESSED yet ENERGIZED by multiple responsiblities at the office; ANXIETY when I didn't hear from my children; PRIDE in watching my oldest at work; EXHAUSTION from the commute; APPRECIATED by coworkers on Admin Pro Day; in AWE of my daughter standing up for what is RIGHT on the National Day of Silence; THANKFUL for dear friends and family; HAPPINESS reflecting from my Dad's happiness; EXCITEMENT as I anticipate Dylan's performance in Evan's play tonight; GRATITUDE for all God has given me...

Today is a special day for my Zuzu's Petals! Zuzu became a member of the Wallace Family 5 years ago today on April 24, 2004! At a very dark time in my life, Zuzu's Petals (when she was a wee puppy we called her Zuzu's Piddles!) brought me light and love and hope and happiness. In the movie "It's A Wonderful Life", George Bailey finds the petals from Zuzu's flower in his pocket and his hope is renewed! MY Zuzu did much the same for me and continues to be my baby, my companion, my heater, my security alarm, my dust buster and my friend. Happy Adoption Birthday Zuzu! Mommy Loves You!!!
Have a Wonderful Weekend!
smoochies, beckie

TWO WILD WEEKS!

2009-04-19T14:46:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a busy 2 weeks it has been for the Wallace Fam!
Meaghan's Open House and Disneyland with friends, Clogging Performances, Peepa Ralph's surgery, Evan and Dylan's rehearsals, David's travel to Boston and Opening Day for the LA Dodgers, work on Austin and Dennice's home, Meema's birthday, Easter, the USS Stockdale Commissioning...Whew!

On Sunday, April 5, 2009 friends and family from far and wide joined us at our home for our annual Spring Brunch - and this year it was a "Brunch of Fun"!
We were honored to have Miss MacKenzie, the Bon-Sutton Family, the Banta-Walsh Family,

the Fab Five from WeHo

and ALL SIX of our kids with us for the day!
Starburst Jellybeans, Mimosas and Cupcake decorating were just a few of the highlights of the day!

Easter morn brought the traditional Easter Basket hunt! This year the Easter Bunny was tricky and hid the baskets OUTSIDE! Once the baskets were found and contents examined, the Cinnamon Rolls, OJ and Coffee were consumed, we dressed and headed to the OC for more Easter fun! Dinner and an egg hunt along with a birthday celebration for Meema Wallace filled our day!

We finished off our OC Easter with a visit to Peepa Ralphie. My dad was taking it slow and easy following his surgery earlier in the week, and had been invited to dinner with his friend Roberta and her family. We stopped by Roberta's house to find a very happy Peepa and a very nice family!

Happy, full and tired we headed home to Rancho Cucamonga and our Beagles to eat yummy Easter leftovers and watch WALL-E together. It was a beautiful Easter Sunday!

Saturday, April 18, 2009, Mom and Dad joined us in attending the Commissioning of the USS Stockdale in Port Hueneme,CA. I was both honored and humbled to be present at the ceremony. This spectacular event brought me to tears as Admiral Stockdale's grandaughter, the Matron of Honor, made the pronouncement to the brave young men and women of the crew "Man Your Ship". Proudly the Officers and sailors ran to their posts aboard the USS Stockdale. As the steam was blowing, the guns were circling and firing, the F-16s flew overhead! It was a moment I will never forget. (I also won't be able forget my experience in the outhouses provided.) We enjoyed a tasty boxed lunch, bought some memorabilia, took lots of pictures and left feeling very proud to be Americans.

On our way home from the Commissioning, we found ourselves drawn to the outlets for a little shopping therapy!

It was a wildly busy two weeks filled with family, friends, joy, fun, adventure and love that will bring sweet memories to mind for many years to come!

National Day of Silence

2009-04-17T13:24:00.000-07:00

Rev. Dr. Mel White to appear on Anderson Cooper 360 Tonight!

In honor of National Day of Silence, the Rev. Dr. Mel White, Founder of Soulforce, will appear for the second time this week on Anderson Cooper 360. The show is live on CNN this evening at 10pm EST. Mel White will be on the show together with Carl Joseph Walker-Hoover's mother. Carl was an 11-year-old boy who committed suicide on April 6th after enduring almost daily bullying, including anti-gay slurs. Carl didn't even identify as gay. The National Day of Silence brings attention to anti-LGBT name-calling, bullying and harassment in schools.

Carl Joseph Walker Hoover

2009-04-09T22:18:00.000-07:00

He was 11 years old and in the 6th grade. He was bullied and taunted everyday at school by his peers. He was called "gay" and "fag" and ridiculed because of the way he dressed.

Two days ago he had had enough, went upstairs to his room, and using an electric extension cord, hanged himself. His mother discovered his body.

When I read this article today, I was filled with many feelings and emotions. Shock, disbelief, sadness, fear, anger... I related to this story on a personal level. And I was frightened.

It was not that long ago that my own son was being taunted and bullied everyday at school; being called "gay" and "fag" and coming home every day in tears. He would ask me to not make him go back to school. He was 12 years old.

While the similarities are hard to ignore, my son's story did not end in tragedy. We were fortunate to have a responsive school counselor that worked with us and addressed the situation.

But delighting in our good fortune seems insensitive when I know that tonight in Massachusetts there is a mother whose son is dead. She won't be checking on him in his bed or kissing him goodnight. And my heart is broken for her.

How many more children must be tormented and bullied to death before we say enough is enough? How many more mother's must lose their children forever?

Isn't enough enough?

Rest in Peace Carl Joseph Walker-Hoover

Gay and Questioning youth are 3 times more likely to attempt suicide than their straight counterparts. For more information contact TheTrevorProject@thetrevorproject.org.

http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/04/mom_says_springfield_boy_11_wh.html

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE

2009-03-31T08:30:00.000-07:00

Maurice Sendak is my all time favorite children's book author/illustrator. From the moment I opened the pages of 'Where the Wild Things Are' and read the story of disobedient Max to my preschool class in 1980 I was hooked!
Following WTWTA I discovered many other Maurice Sendak books including Really Rosie, Chicken Soup With Rice, Pierre, In the Night Kitchen...all amazingly illustrated and dealing with real kid issues. I love these books, the illustrations and their messages!

And now, 'Where the Wild Things Are' comes to the BIG SCREEN! And not some animated Care Bear like version either! Oh no...this is a film with really truly human actors!!!

So where will THIS wild thing be October 16th??? Darn right! At the opening of 'Where the Wild Things Are'. After all, whats a Wild Rumpus without some Wild Things in the audience???

WATERLESS URINALS and OCTOMOM

2009-03-26T10:51:00.000-07:00

I arrived at the office this morning to find the Ladies Room CLOSED. OUT OF ORDER. NO ENTRY. Why? Because the company has decided to install WATERLESS URINALS in the MENS ROOM! WATERLESS URINALS. I don't know about you, but the only thing that comes to mind when I think about WATERLESS URINALS is....EW.

Per the contractor overseeing the job these urinals are all the rage in Australia and Europe! And GRAVITY is what makes these WATERLESS URINALS work. They are made of high quality PORCELAIN and have a FILTER that must be changed once a month. ONCE A MONTH! EW! I will get back to you in a month or so to report the condition of our outhouse er I mean office. And did you know that Staples Center and Nokia Center both use these gravitational pull waterless urinals? Wow! Does that mean that the Lakers and Britney will be by our office soon? Oh, and they are planning on changing out the valves on flushing mechanisms on the toilets too! The new valves will assure that just the right amount of water is used for the particular flush job! Press #1 if you did #1, and press #2 if you did #2.
It isn't easy being GREEN.

OCTOMOM! THIS WOMAN IS NUTS! Crazy. Stupid. Self absorbed. Selfish. Attention Whore. Did I already say crazy and stupid? Firing the Registered Nurses that were training her nannies and readying her home for her babies FREE OF CHARGE. She fired the VOLUNTEERS that were helping her! Can you really be fired if you are a volunteer? I guess you can! And now Gloria Allred (you gotta love Gloria Allred) is involved on behalf of the Nurses! LOOK OUT OCTOMOM! Even Dr. Phil (who caved when he had Nadya Suleman on his show) has a hard time standing up to Gloria Allred! Go Gloria!

FOURTEEN CHILDREN! Eight of them newborns! What is this woman thinking? She states that she felt the Nurses were 'spying' on her and telling HER paid nannies (She pays the nannies? With what?) to 'spy' on her and report her to Child Protective Services. In fact one of the Nurses did file a report. But unless I am mistaken, Nurses are MANDATED REPORTERS and if a MANDATED REPORTER thinks something is amiss, they must by law, REPORT!
I wish I could just shut off my curiosity about Nadya Suleman and her fourteen children. But I can't. Because deep down, my heart breaks for all of them. For her children and for her.I believe she needs more help than just nannies and free diapers and a bigger house. She need professional help. Of the psychiatric variety.
And the children? I am fearful for what the future holds for the children. So, I will stay tuned. To Crazy Stupid mom and her fourteen beautiful yet at risk children.

WINE COUNTRY WALLACE

2009-03-23T21:35:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday David and I drove out to Temecula's Wine Country where we joined our friends Laura and Terry for a wonderful day of wine tasting!
Our first stop was the Maurice Car'rie Winery and after tasting six (6) different varieties (you don't want to miss their Pineapple Champagne, Cody's Crush and Heather's Mist) we took a bottle of chilled Heather's Mist and a sourdough bread bowl filled with warm brie out to the lawn and completely fell off the healthy diet wagon!

After we ate the last crumb of the sourdough bread and drank the last drop of wine, we loaded up in the car with David as our designated driver and headed to our next stop.... La Cereza, the sister winery of Maurice Car'rie . Much to the delight of the men, La Cereza had a cigar bar! Their Raspberry Champagne and the winery 'mascot' Girlfriend Graciella made this stop delicious and memorable!

At Winery #3, Wiens Winery, I was able to bottle my own bottle of wine! 7 Brothers! I labeled it, filled it and corked it(then drank it!) Dave Wiens, one of the 7 Wiens Brothers, signed my bottle.

Winery #4, Ponte Winery, was where we decided to stop for dinner. As we waited for our table to be readied, Laura and I watched a beautiful wedding taking place on the grounds. The vineyards and mountains created a stunning backdrop for the wedding and it took my breath away. As we were dining the wind began to pick up and it became quite cold! Our waitress noticed were were chilly and provided warm and cuddly blankets for us. It was the perfect way to end a practically perfect in every way day.

WEIRD WALLACE

2009-03-14T20:28:00.000-07:00

The weirdest things happen to me. Or maybe I do the weirdest things - I am not really sure!
Here is the short list of some of my experiences...you decide...is it me? Or is it some cosmic energy flowing the wrong way through me....

I have been run over by large women in ECV's several times at Disneyland. ECV - Electric CONVENIENCE Vehicle. Emphasis on CONVENIENCE. Was not so convenient for me.
I have a tendency to fall UP the stairs. At work. With food or coffee. The most recent incident was YESTERDAY!
When I was in the first grade, I had a wart on my top lip. You KNOW that is weird.
I noticed a man peeing on himself in public and then he followed me into a theater. Security removed him.
I once backed down a freeway overpass ramp because I had an anxiety attack.
Walter Knott's grandson was present during my labor with my 3rd baby. Yes, he was in my LDR Room. True story.
My toothbrush mistook Monistat for Crest and I brushed my teeth with it. Don't ask.
People talk to me in community restrooms - fellow employees hold me hostage, prospective bosses continue with questions and custodians stand at the door telling me to "Take your time! Don't rush! I am in no hurry!" Really????
My butt has a magnet that seems to pull children into it...that must be it...right?
I get lost on practically every road trip I set out on.
I found a dead rat on my bosses windshield. Of course I screamed bloody murder!
Batteries of all kinds seem to have short lives with me....camera batteries, watch batteries, phone batteries, car batteries...am I sucking the energy out of them???
My bedroom TV started changing channels ALL BY ITSELF! No help from me! I even took the batteries out of the remote (because of my history with depleting the energy from batteries) thinking that might be the problem! Nope. Channels just kept changing....finally after two days the husband unplugged the TV and plugged it back in. Voila! The channels stopped surfing on their own and returned to being remote controlled. Weirdness.
When I play my Beatles albums backward they say "Paul is Dead". Weird.

BECKIE'S BEAGLES

2009-03-10T22:05:00.001-07:00

I LOVE MY PUPPIES!!!

JUST JACK AND ZUZU'S PETALS

The ABC's of Beckie

2009-02-27T08:44:00.000-08:00

So I get these "About Me" lists all the time on Facebook and email. It seems there are more ways to tell people about yourself than Carters has little green pills! (wow, that dates me! My mom used to say that!) I think they are kinda silly, kinda fun, kinda entertaining. So, humor me as I list the ABC's of ME!

A - Age:
51 (OH MY GAH!)

B - Bed size:
Queen, because I am the Queen...

C - Chore you hate:
Cleaning the toilets...ew

D - Dad's name:
Ralph Conrad. Love you Daddy!

E - Essential start your day item:
COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE and MORE COFFEE

F - Favorite actress:
Oh my gosh...ONE? Choose one? Impossible. I couldn't. I can't! Judy, Toni Collette, Meryl Streep, Kate Winslet, Rosemary Clooney, Jennifer Coolidge, Meg Ryan, Anne Hathaway, Kristen Chenoweth, Abigail Breslin...I could go on and on and on....

G - Gold or Silver:
Silver - however, white gold with my diamonds...actually, platinum is even better!

H - Height:
Short. 5'2". If only I were 5'8". I would not be overweight at all! I would be perfect! 6 inches. All I need is 6 more inches....oh...that kinda sounds naughty. Sorry.

I - Instruments you play(ed):
Flute and Piccolo - One time at band camp....

J - Job title:
Mom, teacher, cheerleader, nurse, therapist, taxi driver, personal shopper, cook, maid, activist, social director, sex kitten and in my spare time an Administrative Assistant.

K - Kid(s):
3 boys, 1 girl, 2 girlfriends, 2 beagles, 1 fat cat.

L - Living arrangements:
I live with Meaghan and David in our car as we commute to and from work/school each day. Actually our home is in Rancho Cucamonga where I live with my husband of 32 years (yes, 32 years. I was a child bride) 2 of my sons, my daughter, our 2 beagles and a cat! Sometimes there's an army of ants living with us too...ew

M - Mom's name:
Vivian Margaret Ann. Love you mama. Miss you.

N - Nickname:
Oh so many...BecHO, Becca, Becksters, Anastasia Beaverhausen, Elphie, Elphabec...I pretty much answer to anything...

O - Overnight hospital stay other than birth:
When I was 9 years old I had my tonsils out; Spent a week in the hospital when I was pregnant with Austin; the deliveries of my 4 beautiful babies (not all at the same time!); and an emergency postpartum stay after Evan for about a week...scary.

P - Pet Peeve:
Pot stirrers (not to be confused with pot stickers and kitchen utensils)

Q - Quotes you like:
"No Good Deed Goes Unpunished" - Elphaba, from Wicked
"First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win."
- Mahatma Gandhi

R - Right or left handed:
Right handed, but politically left.

S - Siblings:
1 younger brother.

T - Time you wake up:
Weekday mornings...4:30 am
Weekend mornings...whenever I feel like it...

V - Vegetable you dislike:
Canned peas, Asparagus, Canned spinach, Yams, Mushrooms...this list is gonna be too long...it would be better if I listed the ones I like...much shorter list, much less typing, much less time to read...

W - Ways you run late:
Uh...when someone doesn't give me the correct directions or when mapquest tells me to turn left when I should have turned right; traffic; oversleeping....I'm just sayin...

X - X-rays you've had:
UTERUS(don't ask! okay, you can ask, but I warned you!) chest, teeth, I think thats it...

Y - Yummy food you make:
Baked Mosticiolli, Swedish Pancakes, Brownies, Chili, Meat Loaf...

Z - Zodiac (as in constellation born under)-
TAURUS- but I am definitely NOT bullheaded and stubborn! There is absolutely no way on this earth that I would ever be thought of as stubborn. Never. Nope. Not me. ;)

REAL Friends

2009-02-25T13:12:00.000-08:00

"No person is your friend who demands your silence, or denies your right to grow."-- Alice Walker

I have often said "I know lots of people, but I have very few REAL friends." This statement was confirmed for me today when I opened an email from a very old 'friend'.
A person that I have known and cared about for over 30 years that seemingly finds it too difficult to listen to my hopes, dreams, passions, fears, joys, sufferings, concerns...and would prefer I be silent. A person that appears to be frightened by my growth and the growth of others. A person that has allowed this fear to stunt their own personal growth. A person that seems unable to accept me - the me I have always been and the me I have become - the real me.

The email from this 'friend' caused me to think about who my REAL friends are. Those that pick me up when I am broken, love me without condition, provide a shoulder for my tears, love my children as their own, accept me completely and unconditionally for who I am (no matter how embarrasing I may be!)We have wept together and laughed together. We know each others strengths, weaknesses and secrets. These REAL friends have walked in front of me, behind me and beside on my journey of growth. My REAL friends, allow me to be myself. The person I have always been. The person I have become. Me.

It is the phone call, the email, the text message or hug that comes at just the moment I need it most. It is being secure in the knowledge that I can make a fool of myself and they will still love me. It is the smile that ALWAYS appears on my face when I hear their voice. My REAL friends.

My REAL friends are my water and sunlight. I need them to grow and thrive. Their presence in my life is a blessing to my soul. Thank you friends. REAL friends. You mean more to me than you will ever know.

"My father always used to say that when you die, if you've got five real friends, then you've had a great life." Lee Iacocca

IT GOES SOMETHING LIKE THIS....

2009-02-20T08:51:00.000-08:00

Brian: Beckie, I think your family should be on Family Feud!
Evan: Mom, I think you and dad both gave us kids the fart gene!
Meaghan: Dylan, just shut up!
Dylan: Meaghan, don't talk to me!
Katie: Evan, I think you are right!
Beckie: I don't know about Family Feud, Dad might answer too slowly!
Evan: Dad farts a lot, Mom farts a lot, and all us kids fart like crazy!
Katie: I think it is the heterozinkusliious trait.
Beckie: There is a fart gene? I didn't know there was a fart gene!
Dylan: Mom, please drive Meaghan home because I don't want to have her in the car.
Beckie: Nope, sorry. Meaghan, you are riding home with Dylan so you two can work this thing out.
Brian: Oh, Meaghan and Dylan please hug and make up.
Evan: Mom, did you get the fart gene from your parents? And did dad get it from his parents?
Brian: If my family all lived close by, I would make them be on Family Feud with me!
Beckie: Well, my parents do fart and have gas issues. But your Meema Jetta tells me that Peepa Gene (not related to fart gene) never farts. She says in ALLLLL their years of marriage she has NEVER heard him fart! He only burps!
Evan: Thats not normal!
Katie: Never?
Beckie: Never.
Katie: Meaghan doesn't burp! She gurgles! But she farts a lot!
Dylan: We need more diet coke.
Beckie: Dylan, will you get the pitcher refilled please?
Beckie: Brian, did you hear my Zuzu had another seizure?
Brian: Yes! What happened?
Evan: Dylan, look at this picture on my phone. Really funny.
Dylan: Ha!
Beckie: I am so worried about her. Makes me really sad. But they say she doesn't feel any pain, she just goes blind and is paralyzed.
Beckie: Let me see!
Evan and Dylan: NO!
Evan: You will be offended.
Beckie: Whatever. Will you guys please be nice? There are other families around!
Beckie: Dylan took her to the vet and the vet doesn't want to start her on meds yet.
Brian: Why not?
Dylan: Because she is not having them regularly enough, and once she starts the medication then she has to be on it for the rest of her life and it can cause liver damage.
Beckie: Look at the Gummy Bear's Booty Shakin!
Katie: His crack is showing!
Beckie: Do you think the Gummy Bear Farts?

Transcript from pizza night at Roundtable following clogging class. The names HAVE NOT been changed because NO ONE there was INNOCENT ;)

Happy 75th Birthday

2009-02-17T19:36:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Mama. I love you. I miss you. xoxo becca

I AM NOT THE BIGGEST LOSER!

2009-02-15T20:25:00.000-08:00

But I am a LOSER...and so is my David Honey...we have lost 9 lbs each!
We are eating healthier, controlling our portions, supporting and encouraging each other and getting healthier as we lose weight together!
Austin's girlfriend, Dennice (Thankyou D!), rounded up a group of friends and family for a BIGGEST LOSER Competition and last Saturday was our FIRST weigh in! In the first 4 weeks of the program everyone in the group has lost weight! Congratulations to all of us!
Dennice's Biggest Loser was just the kick in the patooty I needed. I no longer take the elevator to my office, I climb the stairs. I am back in my clogging class. I am walking more.

I have a long way to go, but I am taking it one day at a time. And at the end of each day I am proud to say I AM A LOSER!

Evan James Wallace

2009-02-08T13:22:00.000-08:00

My son Evan just completed his final theatrical performance of his college career. He portrayed an uptight-anal retentive-nerdy bookworm-book publisher-upper middle class-middle aged husband and father in Edward Albee's "At Home At The Zoo". I know I am his mom, but he was truly amazing in his performance.
Actually, he has been remarkable and amazing in every performance. From his early days of theater in elementary and middle school (MacBeth, Lucky Dollar etc) to his community theater performances (Paper Boy, Borders Explorer, Romeo etc) to high school (Working, The Odd Couple, Laramie Project,Wizard of Oz where he was the greatest Lion since Burt Larr) to his days with Disney as a character and host (Pluto, Tweedles, the Story Teller and more) to college (Fuddy Mirrors, Formicans, Laramie Project, Valley Song, Little Shop of Horrors, Homebody Kabul, Laundry and Bourbon...)
He acts, he sings, he writes, he directs. He is amazing.
His final performance was a bittersweet moment for me. Enjoying the performance immensely and yet when the reality hit that this was the last time I would see him on stage before he graduates, I was overcome with emotion. I wanted to hold onto the moment as long as I could. Remember it. Cherish it.
As I reflect on his acting career, I can't help but smile. He has brought great joy to our family and to countless audience members. His thought provoking, inward looking performances have also brought me to tears on more occasions than I can count. And ALWAYS he brings us to our feet!
Now I am looking forward - to Evan's future - where I seen nothing but bright lights and applause.
Evan, you are an amazing actor, but you are so much more than that. You are a fine young man and the most wonderful son any mother could hope for. I love you.
Break A Leg!

DECISIONS DECISIONS

2009-01-25T13:17:00.000-08:00

I could not decide what to write about this week...as each day went on, another subject presented itself...The Biggest Loser! The Inauguration of President Obama! Meaghan's Dance Show "Wonderscape"! Climbing Stairs and Eating Cheesecake! Clogging Workout! Dylan Travels to Reno! Prayers For Bobby!

Met at Dennice and Austin's house on Saturday to weigh in for the first installment of our very own Biggest Loser...the weigh in was the reason I almost didn't do it! I had to get on a scale and reveal to my son's adorable tiny athletic girlfriend just how much I really weigh...and it was 2 pounds more than it had been 2 weeks prior at the Doctor's office! What the? At this rate, I could weigh 8 pounds more at the next weigh in!

President Obama - I will choose HOPE instead of FEAR! And I thank you for the reminder. You and your family will be in my prayers daily as you lead and sacrifice for our country.
Aretha - YOU were AMAZING! You can bring it and you brought it! Even with your unfortunate breath-break in the second word you were singing...POWERFUL! And your hat, girl!
Rick Warren - your speech/sermon that you called a prayer was...well lets just say it was. Over. Done. Forgettable. So lets forget it now.

Meaghan my little red shoe-shakin-peppermint swirl you...ADORABLY WONDERFUL! How I LOVE watching you perform! You bring a smile to my face and to the faces of all that watch you dance! And ....you wear your sponge rollers and ribbons well!

My stint as the back stage dance room chaperone mom was a thrilling experience! My charges were 50 teenage girls jacked up on the rush that is opening night. They were loud, cute, respectful, talented, naughty, beautiful, young, and did I mention loud? I loved every one of my 210 minutes with them...

I have been climbing the stairs at work for the last two weeks. I work on the third floor, and it is two flights of stairs per floor...2 X 2 = 4. Thank goodness it is simple math. Four flights of stairs to get to my office. Hate it. But I am doing it. Hey...who handed me this piece of cheesecake? Okay..I am only going to take one bite to be polite. One bite. Or two. Or all of it. Okay, I didn't eat the whipped cream topping or the crust. Where the heck are the stairs?

OFF and ON for the last 5 years I have been CLOGGING. My purpose in doing so has been to get some exercise in a fun, non threatening environment. Currently I am ON, and so far (two weeks) it has been fun and non threatening. And sweaty.

My Dylan left at 2 AM for Reno for the Western Fair Association Showcase with Brian Bon and Right now they are in a snowstorm driving 20 miles an hour with chains. At this point I just want them to get there and back home safely. And if POWERHOUSE!!! books some shows at the showcase, then that is the icing on the cupcake! Who said cupcake???

I watched Prayers for Bobby last night on Lifetime. What a brave woman Mary Griffith is to tell this story. A story of how she loved her son but did not accept him for who he was, and how he ultimately took his own life by jumping off a bridge into oncoming traffic below. I wonder what affect this movie might have had on the outcome of Prop 8 had it been aired prior to the election. I am not sure. I do know that my commitment to my gay son, my gay friends, gay youth and the gay community is stronger than ever after watching the movie. Because there continue to be Mary and Bobby Griffth's out there; Bobby's contemplating taking their own lives, feeling hopeless and alone and Mary's not accepting their own children and about to lose them forever. My arms are open to all of them. Even though these mothers, these families cannot and do not accept their own children, they do not deserve to lose their children. So I will continue to fight to save these young lives and bring them hope, for those mothers that can't bring themselves to fight for them.

www.thetrevorproject.org

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

2009-01-15T12:18:00.000-08:00

"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter" - Martin Luther King Jr.

IT'S BACK!

2009-01-14T15:19:00.000-08:00

THE HAIR! THE TATTOOS! THE MAKEUP! THE DANCE MOVES! THE BIKINI?
THE VOICES! I CAN'T GET THE VOICES OUT OF MY HEAD!!!!

Meaghan's Winter Formal

2009-01-12T20:07:00.000-08:00

Meaghan Rose

Uh Oh...

Daddy puts them away!

Megpie Wins!

Los Alamitos High School Winter Formal 2009

Looking Forward to February 23rd...

2009-01-11T16:41:00.000-08:00

I dread January 5th. I dread February 22nd. And I dread the days between January 5th and February 22nd.

January 5, 2009 marks the 5th anniversary of the LAST time my mom was admitted to the hospital, and the last time I saw her eyes open. The last time I spoke to her while she was conscious, although she couldn't speak because of the ventilator. The last time I was able to say "I love you mama" and know for a fact that she heard me. The next day, she fell asleep. But that day, January 5th, in the ICU, my mom's eyes were open, she communicated by writing notes on a pad (although it exhausted her) and hand gestures. Yes,including THAT hand gesture!

February 22, 2009 will mark the 5th anniversary of my mother's death. The end of her heroic 5 year battle with congestive heart failure, her multiple admissions to the ICU and being placed on ventilators; the end of pain and suffering and illness and anxiety. It marked the end of her final hospital stay that had included strokes, heart attacks, ventilators, kidney dialysis and more.

I wanted off the roller coaster...I wanted my mom off the roller coaster..and finally the ride ended. 5 days after my mom's 70th birthday. Over 5 years of life threatening illness, many many hospital admissions, almost 2 months on a ventilator asleep and finally it was over, and mama was at peace and pain free.

I dread January 5th through February 22nd. Bring on February 23rd. I miss you mama. I love you. xoxo becca

CRISIS - Growing Up Gay In America

2009-01-09T13:34:00.000-08:00

What is it like to be called an abomination by your religious leaders?

To live in fear of losing your family’s love?

To be afraid to go to school because of the torment that awaits you?

To lie to everyone about whom you love?

A MUST READ FOR EVERYONE!
(Including folks like Rick Warren!)

SOS - Sunday of Solidarity- CANCELLED

2009-01-07T15:14:00.000-08:00

"SOS" or "Sunday of Solidarity" event, hosted by Soulforce, that was scheduled for Sunday, January 18, 2009, has been cancelled. A new date has not yet been announced, but when it is I will post it.

SOS-Sunday of Solidarity

2009-01-06T19:43:00.001-08:00

Who:
Soulforce, Atticus Circle, and YOU!
Bring the truth about marriage equality to Rick Warren's church!

What:
Sunday of Solidarity -- See Steps 1-4 below

When:
Sunday, January 18, 2009

Where:
8:30 - 10:30am: Required Pre-Action Briefing
Pick up your t-shirt or lapel button and attend this required pre-action briefing at Irvine United Congregational Church (Plumer Hall), 4915 Alton Parkway, Irvine, California 92604.

11:15am: Attend Worship at Saddleback Church
Saddleback Church, 1 Saddleback Parkway, Lake Forest, CA, 92630
Peacefully attend worship wearing the lapel button or t-shirt and seek opportunities for respectful dialogue with members of the congregation.

Why:
Rick Warren, Pastor of Saddleback Church, will give the invocation at President-Elect Obama's Inauguration on Tuesday, January 20, 2009 in Washington, D.C. Many LGBT people and our allies have expressed their dismay at Warren's offensive statements and his substantial support of Proposition 8 that stripped same-sex couples of the right to marry in California. Soulforce tried to create opportunities for dialogue at Saddleback and you can read about that effort here. Now it's time to take the next step.

Soulforce, Atticus Circle, and YOU will bring a bold message of marriage equality directly to the congregation and staff at Saddleback by wearing a lapel button or t-shirt that reads "gay marriage? fine by me" to the 11:15 service on January 18, 2009. The lapel buttons & t-shirts will serve to jump start nonviolent conversation with those in Warren's church about the importance of supporting marriage equality for all American's.

To join us, take the following four steps:

Step 1: Go to http://finebyme.org/sos.html before the end of the day on January 11, 2009 (hurry - that's this coming Sunday!) and order your t-shirt or lapel button that reads "gay marriage? fine by me." Lapel buttons are just $2.00 and t-shirts are $16 (long-sleeve available for $20). All t-shirts and lapel buttons will be shipped to California and be available for pick-up at the required pre-action briefing (see Step 2).

Step 2: Come to Irvine United Congregational Church, 4915 Alton Parkway, Irvine, California, 92604 at 8:30am on Sunday, January 18, 2009 for the required pre-action briefing. You will pick up your pre-ordered t-shirt or lapel button, receive training in nonviolent communication strategies, and sign the Soulforce pledge to nonviolence. You must attend this briefing and sign the pledge card to participate.

Step 3: Attend the 11:15 worship service at Saddleback and seek peaceful dialogue with those around you using the tools provided during the pre-action debriefing.

Step 4: Optional but highly encouraged -- Attend a debriefing afterwards at a location to be announced during the 8:30am pre-action briefing.

Rick Warren may not be in attendance on January 18, but that's O.K. -- it's really his congregation with whom we wish to speak. We hope you'll join us if you are confident you can do so in a spirit of nonviolence. Please forward this information to friends and family who are concerned about Rick Warren's false teachings about LGBT people and are ready to take nonviolent direct action.

Kiss Me At Midnight!

2009-01-04T02:47:00.000-08:00

What do warm coats, lettuce wraps, Wallace kids,banging pots, party poppers, little smokies, beagles, Ryan Seacrest and cream puffs have in common? New Years Eve Wallace Style!

Austin, Dennice, Evan (Katie had to work), Dylan, Meaghan and David and I bundled up and made our way to PF Changs for dinner where we enjoyed a variety of our favorite dishes, lively conversation and laughter.
After dinner, Austin and Dennice headed to a party, and Evan headed to Katie's house.
Back at home, we watched movies, ate little smokies, chips and salsa, and drank champagne!

When midnight arrived, kisses were exchanged and the New Year was ringing in - Wallace Family style-with pots and pans and party poppers!

In the morning, David left to join the Congdons for the Rose Bowl Game (let the tailgating begin!), Evan was AT the Rose Parade with Katie and her family, and I was watching the Rose Parade with Edwards and Eubanks while sipping my morning coffee! Meaghan and Dylan finally got up and we spent a wonderful day together watching old movies and snacking.

I love parades. Local parades, Disney Parades, The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, The Rose Parade...I love them all...could it have something to do with me being in marching band in high school? Not sure, maybe...but there is nothing like getting up on New Years Day, turning on the tube and hearing the familiar voices of Bob Eubanks and Stephanie Edwards and seeing spectacular floats cruise down Colorado Blvd. Perhaps next year I will join Evan and Katie along the parade route...

Welcome 2009! I greet you with cautious optimism,hope and thankfulness. I wish all of my family and friends a very Happy New Year!

smoochies, beckie

Things I Have Learned...

2008-12-30T17:49:00.000-08:00

Each day is a beginning.
You are never too old to learn something new.
It is important to be polite and kind.
Kids grow up.
Volunteer--feel good while doing good!
Do not judge others.
Accept others for who they are.
Celebrate your birthday...celebrate everything!
Walk your dog-good for them, good for you.
Drink more....water.
Use less of EVERYTHING.
Have family meals.
Eat more veggies.
Play charades.
Wear a tiara...
Email / text less, talk more.
Turn you cell phone off once in a while.
Journal.
If you are fortunate enough to still have a living parent or grandparent, call them. Visit them. More Often.
Go on a picnic.
Game Nights!
Visit museums, zoos, aquariums, galleries etc.
Take a dance class.
Hold babies.
Be sure to kiss goodnite.

MERRIEST OF MERRIEST`

2008-12-28T14:49:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2008 Wallace style was once again the Royal Rumpus we have come to expect.
With the Christmas Eve Party over, everyone headed back to their homes, and a few of our own kids at other folks homes, we began the gift wrapping marathon.
For the first time ever, we had help wrapping as we invited our 16 year old daughter Meaghan to join us in this holiday tradition that has kept us up until 4:00 AM in previous years. Meaghan cheerfully accepted the invite to help wrap, bow and tag gifts with her Popsicle and me.
With her help, and the help of our puppies and grandpuppies (right!) we were making quick work of this annual chore. Meaghan was finally so tired that she had to hit the sack with visions of sugarplums dancing in her head.
Along came Dylan to take over where Megpie left off, and we made quick work of this annual chore! We were done and cleaned up by 1:30AM! A Christmas Miracle!

Christmas morning came quickly, and the sleepyhead Wallace kids, Evan, Dylan and Meaghan, were up checking out their stockings. The Wallace beagles, Zuzu and Jack, joined in the stocking reveal as well!
Cinnamon Rolls, OJ and Coffee gave us the energy boost we needed and as soon as Austin and Dennice arrived the gift opening began!
Santa Pops passed out the gifts as I snapped the photos during the flurry of wrapping paper and bows. We dressed quickly, hopped in our cars and headed to the OC for more Christmas celebrating with the OC Wallace's.

We were met at the door by Meema Jetta and Peepa Gene, Leslie and Doug. Laura, Melissa and Chris arrived shortly after we did and the gift exchanging began. Ribbons were saved and thankyous were shared, making it time to eat the Christmas feast and what a feast it was! Ham, creamed corn, salad, stuffing, mashed potatoes, grandma's jello salad, rolls and pumpkin pie left us with very full and content tummies.
Following a win by the Lakers and animated conversations, we loaded up the car with our spoils for yet another Christmas stop!
We drove to Stanton where Peepa Ralphie had the champagne chilled and ready to enjoy! After admiring the new windows he had installed in his house, the gifts appeared as the wrapping paper disappeared! Christmas would not be complete without Candy Canes filled with M&Ms and White Linen from Peepa Ralphie!

With one last stop to make before we headed home for the night, we headed on over to Anaheim to deliver stockings for Bailey and Bessie and gifts for their Daddy and Papa.

A day filled with laughter and love, presents and paper, puppies and photographs, food and festivities, family and friends. A Wickedly Wild Wallace Family Royally Rumpified Christmas.
Wishing you the Merriest of Merriest!

2008-12-28T08:53:00.000-08:00

Wallace Family Christmas Eve

2008-12-26T13:51:00.000-08:00

Twas the night before Christmas at Casa de Wallace
Who knew that CHAMPAGNE went so well with TAMALES?
The SWEATERS on guests were a sight to behold,
UGLY BETTY herself would have even been sold!

With BLINKING and BLING BLING and POINSETTIA SCARVES,
And food on the table leaving no one to starve!
We played CHRISTMAS BINGO then WHITE ELEPHANT
And hoped on exchange gifts no money was spent!

We sang HAPPY BIRTHDAY ate cake and took PHOTOS,
Then called it a night and waited for HO HO.
Twas Merry Christmas Eve at our house tis true
And it was approved of by CINDY LOU WHO!

Love Letters In the Sand

2008-12-21T14:21:00.000-08:00

So, I have been writing letters. A lot of letters.To lots of people. Letter to Obama, letter to Rick Warren and now a letter to Melissa Ethridge. I still have a letter pending to the one and only Pat Boone.
Here is my latest letter...the one to Melissa Etheridge in response to her meeting with Rick Warren.
Would love to hear what all y'alls take is on this situation....xoxo b

Melissa,

I just saw a brief interview on ABC news with you commenting on your meeting with Pastor Rick Warren. You mentioned that you feel it is important to communicate with each other to bridge our differences. And I completely agree. I am impressed that you were able to meet with Warren, and thank you so much for your efforts!

Sadly the leadership of 'Soulforce' (http://www.soulforce.org) a peaceful faith based organization, was not as successful in their efforts to meet with Pastor Warren as you were. Their reasons to meet with Warren were the same as you stated in your interview. To open lines of communication, to encourage dialog with and understanding of each other. Peacefully and with love. Soulforce sent a request to Pastor Warren in September 2007 asking to meet with him in June 2008 as part of their "American Family Outing". They were traveling and meeting with the leadership of six (6) megachurches across the country and were successful in opening dialog in many of the churches they visited. After being given the run around for months by Warren, he finally agreed to meet with a small group of families from Soulforce following their Father's Day Sunday service.

Two days prior to the meeting date, Warren's office informed Jeff Lutes, Director of Soulforce, that Rick Warren would NOT be meeting with them because Warren was being honored with an award at another of his sites. Much time, effort and expense had gone into this process by the families of Soulforce and the only way I can describe Warren's actions and attitude regarding his short notice of not participating in the meeting is rude and arrogant.

I am hopeful that your meeting with Warren was the beginning of an open and honest dialog that is long overdue. Open communication with respect for each other is the key. I am grateful that you stepped out and took the risk to meet with Warren. Thank you.

Happy Holidays to you and yours.

Sincerely,
Beckie Wallace

My Letter to Pastor Rick Warren

2008-12-18T12:07:00.000-08:00

Pastor Warren,

I have been urged by several groups to participate in letter writing campaigns asking, no demanding, President-elect Obama to rescind his invitation to you to participate in the inauguration. I believe it is important for me to let YOU know why I AM writing the requested letters rather than go behind your back and send them.

President-elect Obama alluded to bringing all American citizens to the table of equality in his speech the night he was elected. ALL people. That would include our LGBTQ brothers and sisters. He even mentioned this particular demographic along with other minorities in his speech.

However YOUR words and actions as they relate to our LGBTQ community are less than inclusive. Much less. In June 2008 you and your staff accepted an invitation to meet with a small group of Christian families from Soulforce only to then give them the run around and finally to REFUSE to meet with them. Apparently YOU were being honored with an award and that was more important than following through on an obligation to meet and have an open, honest and loving dialog with a group of brothers and sisters in the Lord. What rude and arrogant behavior on your part. If you had no intention of meeting with Jeff Lutes and the families of Soulforce, then you should have had the courage and integrity to say that from the first invitation (in September 2007) rather than string these folks along.

You stated “there is no need to change the universal, historical definition of marriage to appease 2 percent of our population ... This is not a political issue -- it is a moral issue that God has spoken clearly about." I am sorry Pastor Warren, but I couldn't disagree with you more. It is a civil rights issue and that is certainly political. It is about equality under the law for ALL citizens - for ALL men are created equal. Furthermore, you continue to misrepresent marriage equality as silencing your religious views. This was a lie during the battle over Proposition 8, and it's a lie today AND YOU KNOW IT.

Pastor Warren, I am going to write my letters and send my emails even though I am sure your invitation to participate in the inauguration will not be rescinded. But I believe that my voice and the voices of all the LGBTQ community and their allies need to be heard. I also believe that YOUR CHARACTER needs to be examined.

You do have an option however. YOU can CHOOSE to DECLINE President-elect Obama's invitation. I am doubtful that you have the integrity to decline such a prestigious opportunity.

Sincerely,
Rebecca L. Wallace

SANTA'S GETTIN HIS GROOVE ON!

2008-12-17T09:18:00.000-08:00

Go to this link and watch this. PLEASE watch this! It is hilarious! You won't be sorry! I promise! I would not lie to you this close to Christmas! Pinky Promise! Cross my heart and hope to die! Seriously! Its a riot! Go on, click on the link, thats it! You did it! It didn't hurt now did it! And I was telling the truth, right?
smoochies, b
http://www.sermonspice.com/videos/12280/dancing-santa-countdown

Merriest of Merriest!

2008-12-14T13:07:00.000-08:00

I LOVE DISNEYLAND! Well, who doesn't? I mean really, who doesn't? (well, except for my friend Sam of course) Our family has had APs (Annual Passports, yes we are as they say "passholes") for 14 years! And Disneyland during the Holidays? Well, it really doesn't get any better than that!
Yesterday my two youngest children, Meaghan and Dylan performed with their clogging team, The CA All-Star Cloggers, at Disneyland for their 8 or 9th year in a row. (I really have lost track!) My dad joined us for the day, and it was great fun for everyone!
We lunched on burgers at the Village Haus, danced on the Carnation Stage, cruised It's A Small World Holiday, rode Big Thunder Mountain, took tons of pictures, were entertained by the babies and toddlers of strangers experiencing the Magic of Disney at Christmas, sipped hot cocoa, shopped, marveled at the lights and decorations, dined at the Plaza, watched as Sleeping Beauty's Castle became icicle covered, were amazed at the lights on the Christmas tree, wanted to be in the Christmas Fantasy Parade and cried during the snowfall on Mainstreet as "White Christmas" wafted through the night. (Well, in truth, the parade part and the crying part were just me.)
Although our feet were killing us, our hands and noses were freezing and our hearts were full, our tummies were not! So our final glad tiding of the night was a trip through Downtown Disney on our way home with a stop for Beignets and cocoa and coffee at the Jazz Kitchen Express. As we munched on our treats, the powdered sugar sprinkled down all around us like snow!
It was a very special Wallace/Shelton/CAS/Disney Christmas, and I loved every single non-stop minute of it!

crazywonderful!

2008-12-12T12:36:00.000-08:00

It has been one of those crazysadwonderfulexhaustingfulfiillingoutrageousblessedrewarding weeks!

Saturday - 6:30 AM Meaghan and I head out from Rancho Cucamonga to Los Angeles for "The Trevor Project Gift Bag Party" as I call it! Together with 30+ volunteers we filled over 500 gift bags for the attendees of Cracked Xmas 11. My 4th year Gift Bag Partying! Always a great time!
After we finished Gift Bagging, we jump in the car and head to Anaheim! Clogging performance at the Anaheim Tree Lighting Ceremony!

Sunday - I attended The Trevor Project's Annual Fundraising Gala "Cracked Xmas 11". A Not So Silent Night to be sure! Fantasia, Wanda, Sigourney, Anne, Lesley, Sarah, Selma, and the cast of Springs Awakening had us laughing, crying, dancing, applauding and check writing! The highlight of my evening was spending time with very special friends and meeting the one and only Jennifer Coolidge! She made me want to eat a hot dog real bad while doing the bend and snap wearing a meat skirt and wrestling a lion! All the while asking myself "What about me?" If you have not seen her movies, you must!

Monday - After a long day at work and school, David, Meaghan and I Shooby Dooby Doobied down to Ruby's for their 26th Anniversary! To celebrate, Ruby rolled back the price of a Ruby Burger and Fries to $2.60! We were joined by my daddy and my friends Brian and Robbie for dinner. Ruby's has been one of my favorite restaurants for over 20 years. When the boys were small, Ruby's in the Crystal Court was our Friday night hangout. Dinner at Ruby's followed by a spin on the Merry Go Round and window shopping. Good times, good memories, good food!

Tuesday - Clogging class in Anaheim! My two youngest have been clogging with CA All-Star Cloggers for 10 years! Yes, 10 years! As we waited for Meaghan's class to finish, we were pleasantly surprised by the Disneyland Fireworks in the sky above us! I love pyro!

Wednesday - There is nothing like company and office Holiday Luncheons to get you in the Yuletide Spirit! Encouraging everyone to have a good time and participate in the ornament exchange and sit near each other all the while keeping a smile on my face...
After work and school it was back to Anaheim for a clogging performance at the annual Family Christmas Party at Anaheim First Christian Church. The audience was great and really inspired the cloggers to dance their best!
Thank you Anaheim First!

Thursdsay - Clogging class in LaVerne! Yes, they have class two nights a week! After we dropped Meg off for class, it was a trip to the grocery store followed by a late night of Pumpkin Bread baking by yours truly.
20 loaves and counting...

Friday - I AM OUTRAGED at Pat Boone's (yes, PAT BOONE!) ignorant comments comparing the Prop 8 Protesters with Mumbai Terrorists! Because I am a lady, I won't write what I really think of him, but if someone wanted to serve him a "turd cooked in poison" I wouldn't stop them. And I will be contacting his people and schooling them. You Betcha!
Tonight will be dinner at the in-laws with the Oregon relatives that are in town. We will spend some quality time sharing our cultures.

Saturday - Tomorrow - Meaghan and Dylan are performing with CAS at Disneyland. It just never ends! But I wouldn't have it any other way, cuz this is what makes the Royal Rumpus that is my life so wonderful.
Tootsie Roll and I hope you have a restful weekend!

Shooby Dooby Dooby....

2008-12-07T15:20:00.000-08:00

TOMORROW, Monday, December 8, 2008, is the 26th Anniversary of Ruby's Diner! They are serving a Ruby Burger and Fries for $2.60 all day! I am there!

Cracked Xmas 11

2008-12-05T10:08:00.000-08:00

This Sunday, December 7, 2008, is the The Trevor Project's 11th annual "Cracked Xmas" at the Wiltern Theater. It is an evening full of merriment and joy and it is the single largest fundraising event for The Trevor Project annually. The Trevor Project is the nations only non profit, 24 hour suicide prevention hotline for gay youth. They are all about saving young lives! I will write more about TTP in a future blog...

I volunteered and attended my first CXmas in 2004. It will live in my memory and my heart FOREVER. David and I arrived that morning and began setting up the room with a team of hard working volunteers. My sweet friend Brian joined us later for the show. I was overwhelmed by the colors, the sounds, the talent, the people, the M&Ms, the generosity - all of it! I was amazed to find myself in the same room with Elvira, Lipsinka, Momma, the Nuns of Perpetual Indulgence, Allison Janney, Megan Mullally, Debra Messing, Judith Light, Jorge Valencia and Betty Buckley!

I met Sam Borelli that rainy Sunday in 2004. Sam serves on the Board of Directors of TTP and has a HUGE heart for gay youth. Sam has been a source of support, laughter, wisdom, joy and love for me and has become one of my dearest friends. Our eyes met over the volunteer sign in table that day and he directed me to the restroom! The rest, as they say, is history!

This years event will not disappoint! The Wiltern's halls will be decked with festive holiday adornments and the talent includes Wanda Sykes, the cast of Spring Awakening, Fantasia and more! The appetizing pre-show goodies provided by Wolfgang Puck and you have an opportunity to finish Holiday shopping at the Silent and Live Auctions! You will be surrounded by wonderful people that want to help save young lives! Bring a friend, make a friend! Have a great time! What could be better?

Join the supporters of The Trevor Project for this fabulous event. Cracked XMAS 11. Have a great time as you support the effort of saving young lives.

http://www.thetrevorproject.org/c11landing.aspx

Happy Holidays!

I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas...

2008-12-03T14:42:00.000-08:00

David Honey and I had a unique holiday cinematic experience last night. We watched the movie "White Christmas". Yep, the Bing Crosby, Danny Kay,
Rosemary Clooney and Vera Ellen classic. You know - the one with the songs 'Snow', 'Sisters', Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep', 'I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas'...yep- that one!

What? You wonder what is so unique about that? Yes, I have seen this movie about 1,000 times...give or take a couple hundred...
But last night's viewing was unique indeed. We were sitting in lawn chairs in the parking lot of The Fox Theater in Fullerton. We were bundled up in jackets, scarves, gloves, hats and blankets. The movie, complete with pre-movie cartoon, was being projected on the large blank wall on the back of the Theater that faces the parking lot.

The atmosphere for the evening was relaxed, friendly, and very family oriented. People were polite and I didn't notice any laser pointers or cell phones ringing. Amazingly, most folks remained seated for the entire movie! The crowd was made up of people of all ages from babies to grandparents. Some even brought their family dogs and I was especially delighted to see a beagle there that was almost as cute as mine! There were audience members sitting on blankets, most were sitting in lawn chairs, and some were in patio recliners!
Popcorn was popping and raffle tickets were for sale (I did NOT win!) and you were treated to a candy cane for a monetary donation to the cause!

This was our first time seeing a movie at the Fox but it will not be our last. The FREE outdoor movie nights, held monthly, are scheduled as a way to raise awareness and funds for the restoration of the Fox Theater. Built in 1925, stars such as Judy Garland and Jayne Mansfield once performed on the grand stage. Sadly, the theater has fallen into disrepair requiring money, elbow grease, love and more money to return it to it's original glory. We plan to go back in February for "When Harry Met Sally".

I am dreaming that one day I will be watching "White Christmas" INSIDE the Fox, but until then the outdoor movie nights are more than wonderful!

World AIDS Day 2008 and Thankfulness

2008-12-01T12:01:00.001-08:00

It is the 20th Anniversary of World AIDS Day, a day established in 1988 to bring awareness of the AIDS epidemic to our communities, our nation and our world. A day set aside to remember those who have lost their lives to this horrible disease. It is a time for us to renew our commitment and resolve to find a cure.
I would like to suggest that World AIDS Day is also a day to be thankful - for those doctors and researchers that continually strive to find new and improved treatments and medications; for the caregivers that tirelessly and lovingly bring comfort to those suffering; for the tenacity of the activists that work to make this issue a priority with our government; for educators and medical professionals that have made it their mission to keep our young people healthy and safe; for those determined to live in spite of being infected.
I am wearing my red ribbon today and I have had several opportunities to share it's significance. I am thankful for those that asked and for their interest.
Take time today to remember and to mourn AND to cherish and give thanks.
http://www.hhs.gov/aidsawarenessdays/days/world/

Counting Blessings and Sheep!

2008-11-28T08:25:00.001-08:00

Today is the day after. The day after the day we spent with family and friends and turkey and ham and potatoes and gravy and creamed carrots and stuffing (ourselves and the dish) and corn au gratin and cranberry sauce and rolls and apple pie and pumpkin pie and ice cream and whipped cream and family pictures and laughter and teasing and stories and hugs and kisses and naps and ipods and iphones and ring tones and car rides and raindrops and reflecting and thinking and remembering and thanking.
With the parade watched, the food cooked and consumed, the leftovers divvied up and everyone back to their own homes with full tummies and full hearts, I have been given permission to say...MERRY CHRISTMAS! Let the Royal Rumpus Begin!

It's Turkey Lurkey Time!

2008-11-26T18:58:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Eve...The Night Before Thanksgiving! The night before the day we spend with our nearest and dearest and reflect on our many blessings. I will start tomorrow the way I start every Thanksgiving...sipping a big hot cup of joe (that my sweet husband David will have brought to me) while I watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (my very favorite parade in the whole wide world.) I love that parade! The reporters in their warm winter coats, the big balloons, the Macy's Stars, the Broadway Shows, Snoopy, the dance teams, the close calls and mishaps, the bands, the crowds, Santa....Every year as I am watching it I say to David, "I would love to be in NY for Thanksgiving and go to the parade." And every year he sweetly replies "someday we will."

So like I wrote earlier, it's Thanksgiving eve, and I am watching Home Alone 2, Lost In New York. Well, I am not actually watching it-- more like listening to it and glancing at the tv every so often. I love this movie. I love everything about it. Kevin and his antics, The Christmas Pageant, the pigeon lady, Mr. Duncan, the extended family, the shower scene, the turtle doves, The PLAZA, the hotel staff, Central Park, the bad guys, the room service, Rockefeller Center...NYC...LOVE IT! Every time I watch this movie I say "wouldn't it be beautiful to be in NYC for Christmas!" And every time my sweet husband replies "someday we will."

Will I ever really be in NYC for Thanksgiving or Christmas? Who knows. Maybe... I love the dream, and I love David for keeping my dream alive. But tomorrow, Thanksgiving Day 2008, I WILL be with my family. With my husband, my four children, the girlfriends, the grandparents, the niece, the aunties, an uncle and maybe a friend or two. Right here in SoCal. And when I have them all around me, when the royal rumpus begins, I listen to their laughter, their stories, their snoring (cuz you know what turkey does to you!) there isn't anywhere I would rather be! And I am thankful. Thankful that we have each other, that we love each other, that we have love in abundance, that we have our health and our homes and jobs! I am Thankful for my puppies - Zuzu's Petals and Just Jack. And for my friends - some new, some not so new, some textual- all wonderful!

I have much to be Thankful for. Happy Thanksgiving.

It's Twilight Time!

2008-11-24T14:44:00.000-08:00

I am a Twilighter. Or a Twilight Mom. Or maybe I am just crazy. Maybe. My 16 year old daughter Meaghan encouraged me to read the Twilight book series and I agreed thinking it would be an excellent mother/daughter bonding activity. And it did not disappoint. I have read all four books in the Twilight series, and I am dying to read the latest installment, Midnight Sun. Currently I am reading yet another Stephanie Meyers book, The Host. What can I say. I am hooked. Thank you Meaghan!

Last Friday night, I waited in line at the theater with Meaghan and about 300 of our closest friends to watch Edward, Bella, Jacob, Jasper, Emmet, Alice, Carlisle, Esme and the rest of the assorted vampires and er-humans come to life (well, not technically since they are vampires) on the big screen!
In line with us were females of all ages (and a couple of males)...from elementary age girls to women older than, well, older than me! Those on the best dressed list were wearing a variety of tee shirts, sweatshirts and baseball caps, all Twilight inspired, complete with images of Edward and the Cullens. "Bite Me", "Vampires Are Forever" and "Team Edward" are just a few of the slogans adorning practically every person in line!
Once we finally entered the inner sanctum of the theater house and were seated, our excitement escalated. Butterflies. Even some tears. Meaghan and I held hands and nervously nibbled popcorn and hot tamales and sipped diet coke and water. Our legs were shaking, we couldn't sit still, and we were perspiring! After a short yet spirited round of the "Team Edward vs Team Jacob" chant and a less than stellar string of movie trailers, it was Twilight time!

And then it happened.....we turned into...whoo girls. Each time a beloved character appeared on the screen we let it out ..."Whoo!!!!" with our arms thrown in the air! And when the man-boy-vampire hotty himself, Edward Cullen (portrayed by the one and only Robert Pattinson) walked by the school cafeteria window, the sound in the room was deafening. We melted at each close up. Each time he stared into our eyes, I mean Bella's eyes, we grew weak.
And I wanted to scream out to Edward..."Bite Me! Bite Me Hard!"...what? Oh, right. I did scream that. Loud. To Edward. The fictional vampire of my dreams.

I AM a Twilighter. I AM a Twilight Mom. And I AM just a little bit crazy. But most of all I AM blessed. Blessed to be the mom of a 16 year old girl that loves Edward Cullen and asked me to read a couple books with her. I love you Meggie! xoxo

Sunday Night At Our House....

2008-11-23T20:57:00.000-08:00

Just an old fashioned Sunday evening around the television at the Wallace's...season finale of True Blood followed by Dexter...and of course the Laker game.

When did Winnie the Pooh, Fraggle Rock, Power Rangers and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles morph into De Grassi, America's Top Model, Family Guy and Sarah Silverman?

Our family room is home to countless movie screenings, season finale spectaculars, Bachelor parties and assorted holiday film fests. Oh, and don't forget Shark Week on the Discovery Channel!
The family room carpet bears the evidence of the above mentioned events and the staff of the local Pizza Hut knows us by name!
There's the doorbell...