Amy's Spoonful of Sugar

It's done

2012-02-15T15:55:00.000-08:00

She is still cute. But I miss her sweet, lovely, long blonde hair. I would run my hands through it every night as we snuggled and I sang Flower gleam and glow to her.

But she is a dolly, and I love her, and it will grow again.

Here is Henry, looking like all men do while they're waiting on a woman.

And here she is, the 3 year old who now looks five. My baby doesn't look like a baby anymore. Waaah!

Oh the joys and sorrows of motherhood. She is sooo dang cute, though, isn't she? Love that girl, long, short, or completely bald. She will always be my baby!

In the depths of despair

2012-02-14T16:26:00.000-08:00

Nora cut her hair. Again.

But this time there is no hiding it or just leaving it. It's irreparably short. In a very obvious place.

So tomorrow will be the reveal of her new short hair cut. Boo Hoo!

And when did this happen? While I was upstairs showering. Jeff was working from home, sitting at the kitchen table. And Nora was at the kitchen table with scissors from our Valentine making activity.

Jeff is a very hard worker. So focused in fact, that he didn't notice Nora cutting her own hair.

I'm honestly not mad at him. They've all cut their hair under my watch. But it's quite comical that he was sitting at the table with her. That's all.

I'm not letting this ruin my Valentine's Day, but it's a challenge to be sure. I love her bouncy long blonde hair.

But I suppose I will love her new short, bouncy blonde hair too. *sob*

Until tomorrow.

Weekend annihilation

2012-02-13T10:34:00.000-08:00

This is pretty much what my whole house looks like right now.

It's not exact because the camera is in Jeff's glove box. So I pulled a photo from Halloween preparations. Otherwise I would honestly show you what my house looks like after the weekend.

It ain't pretty.

I don't know when I got into the habit of not doing dishes and tidying up on Sunday night, content to say, "I'll do it tomorrow."

But somehow, that has become the norm and because of that, I hate Mondays.

And I kind of hate Tuesdays as well, because I never get it all the way back to normal on Mondays. Looks like it's time to re-evaluate the way I do things.

Since I don't have pictures of my annihilated house, I will instead share two stories about names that made me laugh.

We were talking about the kids names and how we decided on them. We were talking about Henry and how we had also considered Harvey and Harry.

Anne Marie pipes up and says, "Weren't you thinking of naming Henry, Mildred?" She was dead serious.

We laughed and laughed. No, we never considered naming Henry, Mildred. I honestly have no idea why she thought that.

The second happened on Saturday. We've been getting a lot of phone calls for some name that doesn't live here. Jeff had enough of it and told one company to please stop calling because no one lived here by that name and they call all the time.

So the girl asks him for HIS name so that she can put that in the data base so they will stop calling.

Jeff told her he didn't want to give her his name, (cuz we all know they will then start asking for him), but she said that she had to have a name. So he says, ok, "My name is Daffy Duck. Can you put THAT in your data base?" She said she couldn't, so he said, ok, how about John? My name is John. "

It was hilarious. Jeff is so kind and good, that when he acts sassy at all, it's because he is really fed up. So we'll see now if we get any more calls. I kind of hope so, it would be fun to add Barb Wire, or I.P. Freely to their data base.

Ok, I am going to try and get this place in tip top shape cuz tomorrow is VALENTINE's DAY! Aren't you excited?

I am. Even though I'm not eating treats, it will be fun to make cookies with the kids, give them yummy goodness in the form of chocolate and shower them with all of my love.

Have a happy day!

2012-02-10T11:15:00.000-08:00

*At the gym today, I saw an ad for Komo 4 news that gave a glimpse of a segment they are doing at 11 o'clock about the dangers of fireplaces and small children. We had our own horrific experience with that. I almost started crying while on the treadmill. So because it still worries me, I'm reposting about our experience. Maybe it will keep someone else from letting their little one wander too close.*

Parenthood:Not for the faint of heart. Originally posted May 11, 2009

Saturday began beautifully. Clear, blue skies. Warm breezes blowing. Children trampoline jumping and bike riding. Delicious food eaten outside.

If only it ended that way.

We were enjoying a delightful visit with Grandma and Grandpa, Jeff's parents. Relaxing inside after the previously mentioned delicious food. The children were scattered throughout the house and the neighborhood, reading, playing with friends.

Why is it that in stories, these peaceful moments are interrupted with blood curdling screams? Sadly, such is the case in this story as well.

We heard Nora, crying a cry that meant only one thing: terrible pain.

We rushed to the family room where she had been. Kate was already bringing her to us, panic on her face.

"She fell against the fireplace and it's on!"

I took Nora from her, immediately looking her over, trying to find the cause of the screaming while asking "Why was the fireplace on?" The gas fireplace, warming in wintertime. But with glass that heated to temperatures that could burn.

As Jeff and I looked her over, we could see a layer of skin gone from a patch on her forhead, the instant blistering on her cheek. The immediate devastation as we realized that our baby, our sweet, tiny little girl was burned.

How badly we didn't know, but immedately it was clear she needed medical help.

Thankfully, Don and Donna were there. Donna calmly told us to just go and they would take care of the kids.

Jeff and I rushed to the car trying to remember where the nearest emergency room was. Too far away we came to find out. But there was an urgent care nearby. With Nora on my lap, writhing in pain (oh how I wish that weren't true!) we made our way through stop lights and traffic, trying to remain calm, I was unable.

I cried with her, I stroked the unburned side of her face. Repeatedly saying "I love you, I love you, I'm so sorry!" Even now, I can't type it without tears. I tried to keep her from touching it, and all the while she screamed.

Jeff dropped us off at the entrance and I ran in with her. As soon as I said she was burned they had someone take us back immediately. Jeff filled out the paperwork and then joined us. His own soothing words to Nora, his own grief filled face. Nora still crying in agony.

They asked us what happened. We tried to explain. We still don't know how or why the fireplace was on.

They looked her over. Was there damage to her eye since her eyelid was burned as well? We were forced as her parents, to help hold her down, while her tender eyelid was held open so that they could put drops in that would help to see if her cornea had been damaged. Thankfully, it looked fine.

But you must know, the entire time, Nora looked at me, looked at me with pleading to make it stop. To please help her, to rid her of the tremendous pain she was feeling. And all I could do was tell her I was sorry, that I loved her, stroke her little legs, kiss her. I was screaming on the inside, trembling with the effort it took to not scream outwardly at them to make the pain stop. To help her. All the while, her eyes locked on mine, begging for relief.

Then we saw her hands. Her left hand, a match to the left side of her face. Red, raw, blistered, twisting in a way that seemed to be trying to throw off the pain somehow. Her right hand, fingers blistered, not as badly, but still unbearable to look at.

Then thankfully, mercifully, the motrin given, the ointments applied. The crying slowed to a whimper. The exhaustion from all the pain and crying took over, and she slumbered in her daddy's arms.

And as we sat there, I could feel it. I could feel the prayer that was said on her behalf. And I told Jeff "They're praying for her. The kids, your parents, I can feel the prayer that they said for her" And I cried anew. Feeling the love that was pouring over us, for us. A loving Heavenly Father answering the prayer of Nora's brothers and sisters, of her worried grandparents.

And she continued to sleep. Peaceful. Safe.

They discharged us, told us to bring her back the next day for a recheck of her burns.

Again I held her on my lap on the way home. Her hands wrapped in burn cream and gauze. Her face glistening with anti-biotic ointment. I kissed her head, stroked her skin, melded her to me. My own personal agony still fresh inside me as I held this precious girl. But mindful, thankful that it was not worse. That we were bringing her home instead of sitting by a hospital bed.

At home, more prayers said, hugs and loves, and Nora settling back in.

She has second degree burns on her hands and face. We'll be taking her to Harborviews burn unit just to make sure. She's so little. Overly cautious we will be.

And yes, the fireplace has been turned off with the key. No more flip of the switch will ignite it.

And yes, I feel guilty. Even if there is no blame assigned, as her mother my job is to protect her, to prevent injuries, to foresee potential hazards and remove them. Even when that is unreasonable, as a parent you can never help but feel this way.

Now, I will gather my children a little closer, hug them a little tighter, kiss them more frequently and express my love more often. That in itself has healing power, for all of us.

And not for the faint of heart.

A picture.

Of Nora.

Healing. New wrapping. Tylenol with codeine, heaven sent.

My heart breaks a little every time I look at her. I retreat mentally when I gaze at her wounds, so that I can hold it together and not cry imagining how it felt to have her tender baby skin pressed against searing glass.

Obviously, it's a work in progress. And perhaps, until she is completely healed, that feeling won't leave me. I couldn't suffer the pain for her, I couldn't take it away, no matter how I wanted to. So I allow myself to imagine it, to suffer mentally, to feel anguish for not being able to protect her adequately. Empathy. In this instance, it's my bizarre language of love.

But it is love. Love for her, love for my other children. Love for any child or parent who has suffered pain or grief. Perhaps I'm a bit melodramatic, but know that I am aware of how fortunate we are. That this is a minor bump on the road of life. She will heal, it will be fine.

In fact, she's in her high chair throwing cereal everywhere. It seems that she is ready for life to be normal. No more sadness mamma. Feed me, love me, hug me and kiss me.

I'm good to go.

Parenting 101-adapting as you go

2012-02-08T07:28:00.000-08:00

This is very typical for our family: Charlie playing his ds, Julia reading a book, while life goes on around them.

It is also very typical to repeatedly go into Charlie's room and remind him to put the ds or book away because it is 10:30 at night. Julia I don't remind as much, as she is learning to manage her own time well.

Some nights I'm too tired and I just want to sleep instead of being a good mom and helping my almost 10 year old go to bed. And then we all pay for it in the morning when he has a really hard time waking up.

It's a work in progress, this mothering thing.

Other things I have worked out. Yesterday was beautiful here, so I took Henry and Nora to the park. The first park we tried was closed because the wind storm the night before had knocked down so many branches. The park with the bathroom, unfortunately. So we found another one. Without a bathroom.

5 minutes into being there, Nora comes dancing over to tell me she has to go potty. Leaving and finding a bathroom wasn't an option, because I wouldn't want to come back. And she couldn't pee behind a tree or on the car tire like I let Henry. (He loves having something to aim at, and then I don't feel quite as bad since most of the pee ends up on our own tire. Please tell me other moms let their boys do this?)

But luckily for all of us I am a huge diet soda addict and I just happened to have a large McDonald's cup in the car. So we climbed in the back of the van, she did her thing, and back to playing we went. After I disposed of said cup in the trash, of course.

It wasn't 5 minutes later that another little girl ran up to her mom and said she had to go potty. Nora, hearing this, perked right up and said, "My mommy let me go pee in a cup!!!"

The other mom didn't look around to see who this little girl's weird mother was, thankfully, but I laughed and laughed. It just seemed so fitting somehow that Nora would be so excited about peeing in a cup and wanted the world to know. And I wouldn't tell her NOT to tell anyone. In fact, I highly recommend keeping a large soda cup in your vehicle for just such an emergency.

Just remember to throw it away;)

Singing about candy makes me smile

2012-02-07T09:06:00.000-08:00

On Saturday Kate and Julia performed in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. The musical no doubt.

Julia was Ms. Teevee and Kate was a child/cook.

They were wonderful. Jeff and I were glowing, proud parents.

When Kate asked Nora what her favorite part was, she said, "you and Juey-la(Julia)"

Hey, that was my favorite part too!

We are goofy and dramatic in our family, so school plays just seem an extension of that.

I was really proud of Kate, because after playing Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz, she didn't get a part in the school play the next year when we moved to Maple Valley. It shook her confidence for a while. But she went for it again this year and had a great time.

And Julia had a hilarious scene where she laments the fact that her son Mike is now only 6 inches tall.

I have some fun picture of the girls and the cast mates after the show, but my regular lens that I normally use made everything show up fuzzy. So I had to switch back to my zoom lens. Melissa Dillon-any thoughts as to why? Or where I can get it repaired? Thanks.

So here is a slew of pictures for you. It was so fun. And if you happen to be in Maple Valley this coming weekend, come check out their next two performances!

Oh, and I took a picture with the gates so that you could see Jeff's handiwork in action. And I did Julia's hair.

Do we have a future as a family in the theatre? Perhaps.

Childhood 101: How to not get kicked out of mom and dad's bed

2012-02-02T08:40:00.000-08:00

This is how Henry spent the night.

Sideways at the bottom of our bed.

He avoided notice long enough that he got to stay. Plus, at the bottom of the bed he doesn't make us all hot or force either of us onto the tiniest of slivers of mattress.

I do think I accidentally kicked him in the middle of the night though. Sorry kiddo.
It's the risk you take.

Sweet reprise

2012-02-01T09:17:00.000-08:00

I am a girl who likes sunshine, and money.

So is it so odd that the dropping of money in our account and a sunshiny day would have made me feel so alive, and in such a good mood yesterday?

I don't think so either.

There was a spring in my step as I grocery shopped and soaked in the blue skies in our normally cloudy, grey part of the world.

And being in such a good mood, and being tax return season and all, we took the younger kids out to Red Robin.

The big girls were at play practice, so I appeased them with their favorite French Dip from Arbys. It was still strange not having them there. But it was certainly not boring with the other 4.

I just think Anne Marie is beautiful. And separated from Charlie by dad, she was calm and lovely all evening.

Charlie gave new meaning to the word persistence. He must have asked, I kid you not, 25 times for 50 cents to play one of the games in the lobby.

Henry decided that it was more fun to cover his face than to let me take his picture. And it's digital proof that he did in fact spend at least a portion of the evening sitting down. Most was spent ~~running~~ attempting to run around the restaurant and jumping up and down on the seat and talking to his friend who just happened to be sitting on the other side of the partition.

And Nora. Sweet, lovely, addicted to the little sugar packets Nora. It's a full time job hiding, moving and saying no to the little container full of real and artificial sweeteners.

It was a fun evening. Marred only by the fact that I could only eat half of my food. Why? Because my stomach started to flip flop and feel weird. So weird in fact that I didn't drink the free refill of diet Coke. That is how you know that I was indeed not feeling well.

The feeling persisted all night in fact, it's own symphony of catastrophic music, swelling and rising with the rumblings of my stomach, climaxing around 3 am. It was not lovely.

So now Charlie, Julia, Nora and I have filled our part of the "our family gets the stomach flu every year" bargain.

I can't wait for everyone else to cash in on this awesome deal.

My efforts to fall asleep amid tumultuous tummy tumblings were interrupted briefly by our car alarm going off at 11:30 pm.

A month ago our little blueberry car was the victim of a hit and run in the school parking lot. Since then, you can't lock the car with the remote key-less entry or the car alarm will go off randomly and without any warning.

Seems I forgot that when I got home from picking the girls up last night.

So, sorry to my neighbors. But no need to worry about car prowlers or burglars. It was just our little car, letting us know that it's there. And loud.

Now it seems I have a date with my couch. I don't feel that awful, just tired from attempting to sleep all night, rather than actually sleeping.

But it's blue skies again, after the morning rain has dissipated, I may not be able to stay on that couch for long.

Happy Day!

Weekend recap

2012-01-30T10:04:00.000-08:00

Oh dear, the weekend is over. And I'm actually glad.

Usually I dread Monday, but the weekend was only so/so, sooo I am glad it's over.

Why?

1.I got reprimanded for the behavior of one of my children. That was fun.

2. I was asked to substitute teach for the 11 year old boys class at church. Luckily they combined those boys with another class and I was off the hook. But the anxiety leading up to it was enough for me to be glad Sunday was over. I've taught a lot, but never boys that age. I guess I won't know if it was going to be as awful as I feared. And nothing against boys that age. I have one who is almost 10, so I know. Maybe THAT is why I was nervous to teach it.

3. I had to field many, many questions about what there was to eat. And my answer? Bread. Luckily tomorrow is shopping day.

4. The sun never came out and it rained all weekend. Booo!

5. And then Charlie came in several times in the middle of the night to tell us how much his stomach hurt. I won't jinx my family by talking more about it, but being awakened in the middle of the night makes you feel like you didn't sleep enough. Oh wait, that's because I didn't sleep enough. But when do I ever?

So Charlie stayed home today. Except for when I had to drive Julia's lunch to school. But he got to stay in his pajamas at least.

And highlights of the weekend.

1. Jeff finished the gates for the Willy Wonka play that Kate and Julia are in. Pretty awesome I think!

2. And the Candy boat

3. I got my hair highlighted. I feel better. My hair was starting to look like a "brown football helmet". (Name that movie) No pictures cuz who really cares? Just me.

4. We watched Mr. Popper's Penguins with Jim Carrey. It was really funny. Completely clean and Jim Carrey was really entertaining. I highly recommend it.

Happy Monday folks.

Big kids are kids too.

2012-01-27T08:55:00.000-08:00

The sun is shining today.

When it does that, I feel like a huge anvil sized weight has been lifted off of me.

It doesn't happen much around these parts, folks.

I like the sun. So much so that I tempted Jeff with an offer to be alpaca farmers somewhere warm and sunny.

Ok, not so much tempted as floated the idea. He pretty much loved the thought of herding alpacas and shaving them for their fuzzy coats.

Ok, that's not entirely true. Something about liking his current job? Whatever Mr. work-y mcworkerson.

The truth of the matter is, when you are upside in your house-as is most everyone I know, you're pretty much going no where any time soon. Not that we would anyway. I kind of like how my older girls love and adore me right now. It might not be so awesome if we move when Kate's in high school. Kids don't like that for some reason. So here we stay.

Speaking of my older girls. They really are my own personal rays of sunshine. They are at an age that is sooo fun. It's like having other grown ups around that you can be SUPER silly with, but who you still can boss without feeling bossy. I highly recommend it.

Last night for instance, the girls were up later than everyone else, per the usual evening routine, because they have homework. We talk, we help if needed, we all laugh and act weird. Especially Jeff.

They hide from me because I won't stop taking pictures. (Note the sliver of purple sweater hiding behind the fridge.)

And then I ignore their pleas and take their pictures anyway.

I like to think that they will be glad later on when they can look back with new perspective and see just how truly adorable and beautiful they are.

But for now, I will continue to be annoying. Just the kind of mom I always wanted to be:)

Love/dislike

2012-01-25T09:16:00.000-08:00

I have a love/dislike relationship with bedtime. I love it because snuggling with my kids is pretty much one of the greatest joys in life.

Listening to their little voices make comments on the stories, picking a song to be sung, hearing "I love you Mommy", it all just makes me all warm in the heart and makes me hug ever so tightly their squishy little bodies.

I also dislike it, because more often than not, when I leave the room and say good night, Jeff or I must repeatedly take them BACK to bed.

Here is Nora, going to bed, having insisted on riding daddy's shoulders.

Doesn't she look so sweet, as if she will ACTUALLY stay in bed?

On this particular night, we ended up bringing her into bed with us so that her and Anne Marie would stop talking and fall asleep. It was an awesome night.

And I'm not sure my kids grow out of this phase until they are in middle school. And by then, they WISH they could go to bed, but they have so much homework to do they can't.

In other news from the world of love/dislike, at our school we have a solution room.

If you are naughty on the playground, you and whoever you are not getting along with must go to a room with a teacher and talk it out. Then you must write down what you did wrong, if you are in the wrong, and bring it home for your parent to sign.

Yesterday Anne Marie had to go to the solution room. It was a very unpleasant experience for her and I won't embarrass her by telling you what she did. And I acknowledge that she was completely in the wrong. BUT! I take issue with some of the way it was handled.
It seems that the solution room teacher told the girls that if they did such and such again, she would write down that they were all bullies. I don't like that. (Their school, like many, has a very strict no bullying policy.)

On second thought, I will tell you what she did, lest you think it's something really awful. One of her friends was mad at another friend, so she got Anne Marie and another girl to add Enemy to the end of the girls name and call her that. Gwenemy for instance. Not nice, but not the worst thing either. I'm more concerned that my daughter was a follower, actually. Anyway.....

When I signed her solution room paper I wrote of my my displeasure at the bully label threat on the back.

I said, "While I appreciate the purpose of the solution room, I am concerned that threatening the girls with the title of "Bully" is actually intimidation and a form of bullying itself. I would much rather they hear that they would be known as kind when/if they behave appropriately."

Look at me, being all assertive and stuff.

Seriously, give the kids something to live up to! I would much rather hear that I would be known as kind and good then be threatened to be labeled a bully. It puts the solution room teacher in a good position as a mentor, rather than just a punisher.

Maybe I'm wrong and kids need a good dose of angry-ness. Especially on their first trip there. But I don't think so.

Also, in love news, I decorated my mantel for Valentine's Day.

I found that lovely Monet giclee at Deseret Industries for 5 buckaroos. The rest of the stuff I had, and the banner I made out of some vintage fabric my great aunt gave me.

It could use more Valentine-y goodness, but I am low on mulah so it will do. You realize that the next round of chocolates and calories is almost upon us? What is a chocolate loving girl to do? Take deep breaths and repeat: "I like chocolate, but I LOVE fitting into my clothes." Try it, it sort of works! Ha ha ha

Have a wonderful day, full of love and likes. And hopefully no dislikes!

2012-01-23T10:28:00.000-08:00

Oh my! Life was interesting last week. We lost power for a few days. But it was sooo fun! We spent so much time together as a family with Jeff home sick and the kids home from school. Today is rather depressing as everything turns back to normal.

And in case you're wondering, no I don't pay Jeff to say such nice things about me. And yes, I get a little embarrassed. I have a hard time with attention. But I do love him and I'm grateful that he loves me.

Though everyone is back at school today, there was still a two hour delay because of icy roads. So we are off to a late start and my day is basically cut in half. I don't mind. Sleeping in one more day was great!

But because my camera battery was dead, I took no pictures of our white out/power outage. So instead I'm sharing a picture of my nephews. It just made us laugh.

There is a 14 year gap between them. I think baby Sean is lucky to have a big brother (3 of them actually, and a sister) to look after him. And of course an aunt who is especially partial to him. (that's me!)

Anyhoo-I must get the last of my school kids on the bus. Toodles!
I apologize for being boring today. Sometime THAT is my reality.

Power Outage, School cancellations, and Other Chaos

2012-01-20T10:27:00.000-08:00

Many of you may be wondering what has happened to Amy's Spoonful of Sugar over the last couple days. I miss her wit and wisdom; I miss her words of fantasy and fun; most of all I miss her dose of reality that sends me over that emotional precipice on a daily basis. I love her more than anything. Amy is a wonderful woman and a kindred spirit to so many of you, but also to me. We laugh together; we cry together; and we are growing old together.

She is amazingly talented, too. I love hearing her voice whether she's singing, speaking, or sharing a story with me or the kids. Her voice is like sweet nectar in my ear.

Anyway, we lost power at our house yesterday around 1pm and so I am in the coffee shop up the street so I could work. And Amy asked if I could update the blogosphere with her latest. So, with the power out, Amy's brother came over and helped us get the generator running, ( I didn't know you had to have a clean spark plug to have it work). We watched a movie by generator power, we told stories and had a mini talent show. School has been cancelled the whole time. I had kidney stones so I couldn't go to Atlanta, so was working from home the last few days, too.

Anyway, She'll be back as soon as possible. Maybe I'll set it up so she can email her blog post in.

Thanks,

Jeff

On a snow day do you play or clean?

2012-01-18T10:43:00.000-08:00

I bought blackberries yesterday. Why would I do that? In the summertime they grow unabated over my back fence. I hate them, they come up through the grass and wreck stuff and are sooo hard to get rid of.

So why would I spend 2 dollars for a little plastic container filled with them? I don't know. I didn't realize it until this morning and I'm super annoyed at myself. So I fed them to Nora, who has no prejudices against blackberries.

In other news:

We are snowed in. But people are finding ways to get around...

So while other people have cool snowmobiles and lots of winter gear, we are watching tv. And what my kids don't know yet is that I am making them clean today. Because I hate fun. Yes. I'm perfectly evil. Bwahahahah!

No, they get to actually enjoy the snow as well, but not without a few chores thrown in. We need balance in our lives, right?

Luckily I made a run to the store last night when the roads were still passable and I stocked up on almond milk. Cuz, you never know when a craving will hit, am I right? What I really wanted to stock up on was Doritos and ice cream and cookies and pop. But since I have decided to leave that junk behind in my 37th year of life, it's a no go. So if anyone runs out of fun stuff and really wants some almond milk, I am your gal!!

Enjoy the day.

Birthday weekend.

2012-01-17T13:50:00.000-08:00

Have you ever celebrated your birthday all weekend?

I have.

Have you ever eaten your weight in cookies and cake and hamburgers? I'm pretty sure I did this weekend!!!

Highlights of Saturday were Charlie trying to explain to me a toy he wanted that his friends all have.

Turns out he was talking about one of these:

But when I was a kid, we called them Water Weenies. Well. My kids laughed and laughed at that. No one calls them that now. Henry especially enjoyed saying, "water weenie! water weenie! water weenie!" And everyone school age was just embarrassed.

On Saturday night Jeff took me to dinner and a movie. The evening was fun and mostly uneventful except for the lady knocking on our car window.

20 minutes before pulling into Red Robin, I was telling Jeff about an article I read in the NY Times about crusty punks in Central Park. Apparently, most don't consider themselves homeless, just "travelers" who don't shower, ever. Hence the name crusty punks, they are the crustiest you see.

The article linked to a blog documenting through pictures and interviews, many of these folks. And from their own mouths, most were junkies of some type. They even talked about begging for money specifically for the purpose of being able to buy their next hit.

I shared this with him and then so wisely said,"That's why you should give them food, and not money".

Then as we pulled into Red Robin, a woman knocked on the window.
"I'm not crazy, or a druggie. As you can see I'm pregnant and my 12 year old and I just left an abusive situation and we haven't eaten all day.(She waved in some vague direction) If you could spare anything?"

Now upon first impression, the woman was obviously not crazy, but WAS most likely a druggie. But I decided that Heavenly Father has a funny sense of humour. Here I was, all knowing about what you should do when faced with someone begging 20 minutes before. Well, this lady wasn't someone on the sidewalk with a sign. She was asking specifically for our help. And I honestly didn't believe her or her story. But what if she wasn't lying? Then I would have turned someone away. And if she was lying, well, then that's on her.

I was very sheepish as we walked into Red Robin. Lesson learned. In general I should be quiet:)

On Sunday, my brother and his family came over and ate dinner and had cake. Jeff got some great pictures, but missed me blowing out the candles. So I recreated it for him.

There is a piece without frosting on it especially for me. Frosting is so over rated.

Monday, some friends took me to breakfast, and made me cry, and afterwards another friend and I went shopping. And then Monday evening, my older girls and I went shopping. So I was in food and shopping heaven pretty much all weekend. And I didn't clean or cook all weekend either. Which I am paying for today. But I will probably not clean today either, why? Well....

I was going to have this all blogged about this morning after Jeff left to go to Georgia for 5 days for a conference. Well, he is still home. 45 minutes before he was supposed to leave for the airport, he started feeling really sick. And then the nausea and stuff associated with nausea hit, and turns out he has a kidney stone, or stones. He is currently in a drug induced sleep upstairs.

I am sad for him because I have had kidney stones and they are the pits. In fact, my first blog post ever was about it. And I'm sad for me because I was going to have the bed all to myself. Except for the little corner where Nora would end up. Because I brought her in with me:) I love snuggling that little girl.

And....my kids are out of school today because of snow. Yes, snow in the Seattle area shuts down schools and sends people running to the grocery store to stock up. My friends from RI will laugh at the pictures when they see how much snow cancels school!

We did have more after these pictures were taken, and the roads were pretty icy and snowy with little snow equipment available for clearing, but it's still funny when we've lived in places where we get real snow.

And let me tell you, folks around, here for the most part, LOVE IT. Especially the kids. It means no school and sledding. To me it just means cold and that I can't take my rear wheel drive vehicle out of the driveway.

Well, I probably should check on the hubby and give him some more meds. They make him pretty tired and loopy and possibly forgetful. This might be a good time to ask for those new boots that I want.....hm.

New makeup and a funeral

2012-01-14T06:08:00.000-08:00

This morning I treated myself to... makeup.

New concealer, foundation, eyeliner, shadow, lipstick!!

Do you know how long it's been since I splurged on more than one item at a time?

My mom gave me some birthday money, and I blew it all!!!

What brought on this sudden desire for all new makeup?

Will you think I'm awful? Shallow? Have my priorities out of whack?

Well I promised to be really real.

I bought all new makeup because I had a funeral to attend.

And for some reason, that I can't even explain to myself, I wanted to look fresh, and lovely, and not as sad as I felt.

My friend from high school died on Sunday. From uterine cancer. And somehow I think I wanted to look younger, and better than I feel.

I wanted cancer to know it would not be allowed to follow me home. Somehow in her death, I desperately wanted to feel more alive.

I did wonder how well thought out it was as I sat with another friend from high school, and cried. Was my makeup running? Was I being shallow for caring that my makeup might be running down my face? What does it say about me that I was worried about my makeup running when someone's life was over?

It meant that I am still alive. That part of being a living, breathing person is that I still care about little things, even if I'm not proud of it. It means that knowing how precious life is, and feeling sorrow for her family, does not change that I have quirks and idiosyncrasies which are a part of who I am. It's what makes all of us human, the fact that we are not perfect.

I think Dorie would forgive me for thinking of my makeup right then. She liked looking pretty, she always did her hair in fun and interesting ways. And it didn't change that I am sorry she is gone, that her life was too short, and that her death leaves a empty spot in her family.

The nice part of the day was that I drove to and from the funeral with one of my best friend's from high school. We laughed, a lot, and caught up with each other. We ate pizza afterwards at Mod Pizza. Super yummy, and I loved getting asked how my pizza with no cheese was. The guy made a special visit to our table to ask because in his own words, "I've never had a pizza without cheese before. " I also had two cupcakes from the funeral. They were so good that I felt guilty eating them. It seemed almost as bad to enjoy the cupcakes as it did to be happy with how my makeup turned out.

When dropping my friend off at home, I desperately had to use the potty. And since I was already in her house, I promptly plopped myself on her couch and talked to her and her husband (who also went to high school with us) for 2 hours.

We laughed some more, talked about our friend and just kind of basked in the glow of a friendship that goes back 25 years.

I'm utterly exhausted. So much emotion, guilt from buying makeup for a funeral, and wonderful laughter will wear a person out.

And though I may love me some new makeup, it was not lost on me that I got to come home to my family. That my arms are still strong enough to pick up my children, and that even on my worst pain days, I am still here for them.

But I also know, that if I was gone tomorrow, my family would be forever. This life is not the end. And I take enormous comfort in that. It means I don't have to be afraid. And it means that they're stuck with me for always.

My only concern about life after death: I hope there is some sort of makeup in heaven. Or at least I hope I have a really lovely, golden, Heavenly glow for all eternity:)

I was in love with today

2012-01-13T09:09:00.000-08:00

I love sunshine.

I love taking naps on the couch with Henry and Nora snuggled on top of me watching a movie.

I love homemade bread with homemade jam.

I love talking to older, great-grandma women. Especially who like my canned peaches.

I love making a dinner that most everyone likes.

I love going to bed with the house clean.

I love having Nora snuggle between Jeff and I telling "scary" stories. Her little voice telling us the 3 little Pigs. And then making Jeff and I each tell it too.

I love random silly shots of my family and I.

That was my day. And I loved it.

The teenagers seem to not like getting their picture taken.

Nora likes having her picture taken ALL DAY!

King Jeff

Split personality day

2012-01-12T10:43:00.000-08:00

Today started off awful. I ain't gonna lie. I hurt so bad that I was limping, and I couldn't even imagine trying to walk on the treadmill for 50 minutes. So the gym was out.

This sent me into a sadness that I haven't felt for a long time. I emailed Jeff. I called Maile. I complained to them both. They both have auto-immune diseases where they are afflicted by a lot of pain, so I knew they would understand.

(I don't know what's wrong with me yet, I just know I hurt a lot.)

I sat on the computer for a while, which never helps and then finally decided that getting ready, instead of moping, would help me feel better.

Showering, plus 4 advil, began to put a new spin on the day. Then Kate called, asking me to pick her up because her ear hurt terribly. And from that moment on, my day was wonderful. The sun came out, I got lunch for us, ate some chicken (the first time in 6 weeks) and talked to my daughter. Amy brought Shawn over again so she could teach an art lesson, and Kate cuddled him most of the time.

We decided he is a fuzzy headed, squashy ball of love. Yes he is.

I somehow had enough energy and lack of pain, that I cleaned the whole downstairs and even got some laundry done. I made a yummy dinner, got MORE laundry done, and just felt productive all around.

It was really a miracle in my day. I know that Heavenly Father loves us, but I don't always think He blesses us just because we stomp our feet and say it isn't fair. But He certainly knew what I needed today.

And Julia turned in her Renaissance project. The 7th graders study the Renaissance, and then they make a project that shows "renaissance" thinking. So Julia designed and built, with the help of Jeff, a water wheel.

I like Julia because she really sees the world as anything is possible. She's very inventive and has very little fear. I like her can do attitude.

My attitude stayed happy all day. Even when I went into Anne Marie and Nora's room at 10:30 and they were still awake. It seems all my nagging about keeping her room clean inspired Anne Marie. She was up arranging her drawers. They looked nice. But I think my message was lost, and a new one about perfect dresser drawers was found.

It was really amazing to me how I had two totally different days, within the same day. But boy, am I grateful.

And of course, Advil helps.

Squishy, squashy 5 year old w/ big sister.

2012-01-11T08:08:00.000-08:00

I didn't have a big sister to tell me I was cute, to babysit me and cuddle me and squish my chubby cheeks.

Henry and Nora are really lucky.

But so am I. I have two girls who are big sisters. And they love on the little ones all the time.

Today, that was my reality. Oh, and I was showered and ready before noon. A good day all around.

I'm obviously easy to please.

Grey days

2012-01-10T11:33:00.000-08:00

I have found the downside to 365 days of reality. Some days, my reality is such that I want to go to bed instead of blogging.

But I have committed. I am not very good at writing in the journal that sits by my bed, so I need to be good here so that when my brain becomes addled I will be able to read this and maybe a glimpse will come back to me.

Just like The Notebook. I bawled my eyes out to that movie, by the way.

I woke up to more gray, grey? I can never remember. When it's grey, I feel the same. Which is not a good thing when you live where it is grey a lot.

But luckily, my SIL brought over her two youngest, and that baby especially puts me in a good mood.

Kate was home, sort of sick today. So when baby Sean started nodding off and looking sleepy, she happily acted as a crib of sorts.

And then Amy came to pick them up, and Amy herself is like sunshine. I always feel happier after talking to her. So maybe it's not the grey outside as much as feeling trapped inside. People talking to me helps. Talk to me people.

Henry then had a play date, and I had a date on the couch with Nora watching Dora. Our favorite. It seemed that time slipped by rather quickly, meaning I fell asleep, and then it was time to get Henry.

Now being the wonderful mother that I am, I asked Henry if he was hungry when I picked him up. He said yes, so we headed to McD's for some french fries. He wanted an ice cream cone as well. I said no. Not because I care if he has an ice cream cone, but because those waiting at home would be unhappily surprised to see Henry chowing on a vanilla cone and me empty handed.

Because of afternoon traffic, it took twenty minutes to get home. And the whole time I heard this: "Ice cream cooooone!!!" Repeated 800 times, combined with wailing, crying and screeching. I ignored it. Which you would think would end it since he was getting no attention for it. However, he was still crying as we walked into the house. And then he was still crying as he sat to eat his food. I finally stopped ignoring him and told him that he could keep crying as long as he did it upstairs in his room. He decided to stop crying. Sort of. Enough that it counted.

I then found out that a friend from high school passed away. It just made me so sad. I cried at my computer for a while. Kind of in shock that someone so young could be gone. She was among my group of friends, but we hadn't spoken since high school. Just Facebook. But she had still been my friend at one time. She was 37. A mom, a friend, a sister, a daughter, a wife. Too many stories lately of people in their 30's passing away. It really made me pause for a moment to see how much I appreciate my life, this body I have been given, the family I love.

Even on the grey days.

Being a birthday boy rocks.

2012-01-09T10:21:00.000-08:00

The birth of my most favorite man in the whole world was celebrated on Saturday.

I was really excited about his presents. Why? Because we gave him awesome ones.

But, the day started with french toast and orange juice and sausage. Except the sausage had one bite taken before it was realized that it had been in our fridge too long. Ewww. Jeff had been in charge of the sausage, I just couldn't bring myself to do it. Hi birthday boy. Rwaarrr!

We were hoping to find something fun and awesome to do, but alas, part of being a grown up is that you still have things you have to do, obligations to fulfill. Even on your birthday.

Jeff has volunteered to build part of the set for the girls play, Willy Wonka. So he was working on that, on his birthday. I would have said it can wait, but he's all full of integrity and stuff. Pshh.

And while he did that, I feel asleep on the couch. Whose birthday was it?

But then I made dinner. Jeff's FAVORITE dinner. White sauce enchiladas. Some of the kids and I had pizza, cheese for them, vegan for me. But Jeff was REALLY happy about his dinner. And it was really sweet of him not to care that half of his family couldn't or wouldn't eat them. Just like I won't care that my family won't want to eat the

Seitan Stuffed with Walnuts, Dried Cranberries, and Mushrooms

that I'm going to have on my birthday.

After dinner we had him open presents. Drum roll please. First Anne Marie and Nora gave him their presents. We like to recycle gifts in our family. So Jeff got a lovely pink blanket and a broken wonder pets boat. It was really sweet.

But the big surprise? We got Jeff a gift certificate to IFLY. Have you heard about this place? It's an indoor sky diving facility. It's supposed to be awesome. He was uber surprised and excited. He usually guesses his presents, just kind of knows somehow what he is getting. But he was really surprised this time. I guess usually my gifts are lame, because boy does he look surprised:)

I also had this idea to get him mechanics coveralls. He had been out replacing the starter on the van, and he had to search high and low for some clothes that would be warm enough, but that he didn't care if they got wrecked. And I thought, he spends so much time, and saves us so much money by working on our cars, that he should have something to wear while he's doing it. It only took me 15 years to think of this. That's how long he's been fixing our cars. The funny thing is he thought the exact same thing that day. So he was genuinely pleased and happy about the coveralls when he opened them.

Then what would be a birthday without one goofy present. Jeff and I saw this thing on an infommercial, that is supposed to help you squeeze the water out of your tuna fish can. We made lots of fun of it, because, who can't just use the lid? And then I saw one in Safeway, and bought it! He laughed and laughed when he opened it. Plus, he does eat a lot of tuna fish, so maybe the thing will actually prove to be useful.

After presents, everyone was still too stuffed for cake, so we watched the new Winnie the Pooh movie. It was so sweet. And what a great dad to watch a movie that his kids (and wife) wanted to see. Henry had commandeered the camera, and even though I know he loves his dad more than me, he seemed to be intent on taking pictures of me, not his dad. He especially thought he was funny when he took pictures of my "boo boo's". You can guess what those are, and no, I won't post a picture. I do have some self respect.

After the movie, everyone ate cake. Peanut butter cup cake. It's basically a chocolate cake, with peanut butter frosting, covered in mini peanut butter cups. Jeff loves peanut butter and chocolate, so he was in pb and c heaven.

After we attempted to put the kids to bed, Jeff and Kate and I watched That Thing You Do. Do you remember that movie? It was still good, 16 years later.

I think Jeff had a good birthday, he seemed to.

Saturday was a good day, all day. Although the weekend did have a few awesome quotes that I have to share with you.

Anne Marie was getting reprimanded for her messy room. And I in my annoying motherly-ness, was telling her that it was her responsibility. That Nora's room didn't get messy before her and Anne Marie shared, so I knew that Anne Marie was largely accountable. So she said to me, in all her 8 year old confidence, "Well! That's because I don't just want to sit around WATCHING TV all the time. I like ADVENTURE!"

I wonder how she likes the adventure of cleaning the mountain of clothes and toys that is her room.

The second awesome quote came from Henry. He came crying into our room. "What's the matter Henry?"

"Charlie sat on my bed in just his underwearrrrrr!"

Lil man did not want to sleep in a bed that had been touched by big brother's underpants. This went on for a while. Henry retaliated by sitting on Charlie's bed sans pants. This escalated to a point that I don't want to tell you about, but I can sum it up by telling you this: Boys are weird.

But not Jeff. Or maybe its just that I don't mind if he sits on my bed in just his underpants.

Happy Birthday Jeffy dear!

Highlights of Friday

2012-01-07T11:22:00.000-08:00

-Woke up hurting all over. I don't know why some days are worse than others.
-Anne Marie had the kind of cough that made it so I would have only felt guilty if I sent her to school. Not because of how she felt, but because of infecting all those other kids. Except for the cough she seemed fine. But you never know how other people will respond to the same virus. So she stayed home today.

And because Anne Marie is sick, Nora felt sick for a few minutes too. Monkey see monkey do.

3. Sat around in my nightgown until ~~11,~~ 2.
4. Decided that I would not feel guilty for being lazy today. My house is in decent order, everyone had their lunches made and ate breakfast. So what's to feel bad about?
~on a side note-Mormon's place a lot of pressure on themselves to be perfect. Honestly, this is more of a cultural thing. Church leaders, the Bible and the Book of Mormon have never stated that I need to have a clean house all the time, be thin, or have perfectly coiffed hair. But somehow, we Mormon women have adopted policies of not good enough unless we can prove it through perfect homes and appearances. And that is not the message of the Gospel. The message of the Gospel is to be perfected through Jesus Christ, which will not happen in this life. So I for one am choosing to believe the Savior and cut myself some slack.
~Second side note-I am feeling sensitive today because I happened upon a blog that made me angry. I will just say about it that I wish people would grow up and stop blaming others for their unhappiness. I'm not saying others don't cause us sorrow, because they do. But if you're stuck in a cycle of blame, you will certainly never be happy.

I love this quote by Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi:

“… when I refuse to forgive someone who has wronged me, I mobilize my own inner criminal justice system to punish the offender. As judge and jury, I sentence the person to a long prison term without pardon and incarcerate him in a prison that I construct from the bricks and mortar of a hardened heart. Now as jailor and warden, I must spend as much time in prison as the prisoner I am guarding. All the energy that I put into maintaining the prison system comes out of my “energy budget.” From this point of view, bearing a grudge is very “costly,” because long-held feelings of anger, resentment, and fear drain my energy and imprison my vitality and creativity.

-Kate and Julia have play practice until 6 today. I miss those girls. Everyone went back to school, and they had play practice til 6 the very first day.

It's tough, because I want to go on a date with Jeff, but I miss them and I don't want them to have to babysit when they've had such a long week. So instead, I think a movie in bed will do the trick for some husband/wife time. What do you think Jeffy?

5.Because it's Friday, I think it will be pick your dinner night. I will make whatever anyone wants, as long as I have the ingredients on hand. Veggie stirfry for me, meatloaf for Jeff, waffles for whoever, mac-n-cheese? My pantry's the limit!

And tomorrow is Jeff's birthday. We will be the same age for 1 week before I become a year older than him again. I'm REALLY excited for his birthday presents. I think he will be very pleasantly surprised.

And lastly-Day 3 of the Ninja Mask. He wanted to sleep in it as well last night, but luckily we temporarily couldn't find it. I just can't stand the thought of him sleeping with something on his face. The suffocation factor, plus potential ick factor of drooling all over it.

We went on a date! Woo hoo! A real date, not just a quick trip to Walmart. We went to Red Robin and then saw the new Sherlock Holmes movie. My oldest and youngest were asleep when we got home, but the middle 4 were awake still, at 11:30! Why? Cuz the Wizards of Waverly Place movie wasn't over yet. Wah.

But seriously, thank you Julia for babysitting even though you were tired.

Day 1 of 365 days of Reality

2012-01-06T06:23:00.000-08:00

Today started earlier than normal. For the kids. Julia had a orthodontist appt. at 8, so I had to have everyone dressed, fed, lunches made and in the car by 7:40. Including Henry and Nora because I was going to the gym afterward.

Good morning. Check.

But on the way to the ortho, two children lost priviledges for coughing in each other's faces, poking, bothering and generally annoying each other, and therefore me.

On the way to school we realized the missing-ness of one coat for an 8 year old girl. I told her to just wear the boy coat that happened to be in the car, to which I was informed that all the girls at school wore pretty girl coats and that she would be embarrassed. And nothing is a worse punishment for this child then to be embarrassed. And we couldn't have that. So then I started to feel bad that her girl coat that she left at home was way too big for her, being a hand me down, and just a plain sort. Plus the fact that we would be late if we went home for it, and it was FREEZING outside today.

So we stopped at Walmart, and I bought her a pretty polka dot coat for 17 bucks. She was happy, and I wasn't that much poorer.

After dropping everyone off at school, I headed to the gym with Heinrich and Nora. I pushed through some major desire to NOT be there.

After getting sweaty enough to call it good, I headed to the store where Henry and Nora proceeded to drive me nuts for a solid 20 minutes. Not until they each had a doughnut in their mouths was there any silence from them.

The rest of the day then consisted of me watching the Biggest Loser and other random videos on the Bum Breaker, (that's the hard kitchen chair I sat on for 3 hours),while Henry and Nora entertained themselves.

It was with a final sad realization at 4:30 that I should tidy up enough so that Jeff wouldn't think I sat around all day, and that dinner might be something to consider. Cleaning up wasn't too bad since I had busted my behind getting ready for the missionaries yesterday.

(Really. This is not bad at all. I promise. It only took a few minutes to spruce it up.)

And for dinner I made a yummy stroganoff, which I didn't eat. But everyone said it was good. I was considering adding some vegetables to the table, but then I thought, "Who am I kidding? No one will eat that" and instead I added cheese filled breadsticks as an accompaniment.

I then spoon fed my 5 year old with the ninja mask on so that I could be sure he actually got any sort of nourishment in the PM.

After dinner, everyone pitched in to clean up. And I don't think I had to threaten anyone. It was pretty awesome actually.

Henry was asleep before 10! Do you know what a miracle this is? I honestly thinks it's because I put him to bed while Jeff was running an errand with Julia for her school project.

And I don't mean that I have better putting to bed skills than Jeff. Henry just adores his father sooo much, that I sincerely think that he had no reason to get out of bed without Jeff home.

But then Nora came down, after I thought she was in bed for good, claiming to be hungry. I should have known by how NOT tired she looks after her afternoon nap.

But her still being awake made all the shushing I gave to Charlie feel unnecessary. Although it provided much humour when I finally told him that I would penalize him a dollar for every word he spoke. So instead, he mouthed things at us, and made weird shrieking noises and contorted facial expressions. But he never spoke a word until I finally told him that I would let him talk again if he promised to not make ANY of those noises again. He complied.

I was asleep by 10:30. I'm addicted to going to bed early. I'm pretty sure that there is way more activity in my house after 10 than I know of. But 10 o'clock hits and I start to panic that I won't get at least 8 hours of sleep so off I go to dream land. Except for weekends, wherein I stay up to ridiculous hours of the night watching shows with Jeff.

But that is how it should be.

I have no real resolutions, because I'm lazy.

2012-01-05T11:48:00.000-08:00

2011 was an interesting year. It brought me some joy, some sadness, some irritation, some excitement, some betrayal....oh wait, that is a typical day for me!!! I'm a little run by my emotions you see:)

It also brought about some massive introspection, about why I do some things, fail at some things. And I wanted to jump on the bandwagon and pick one word to represent 2012, but I couldn't make the one word work. So I picked No Excuses.

I think my life lately has been run by excuses.

I am too tired, I hurt too much, I don't have money, I don't have time, blah blah blah blah blah. And instead of giving myself the break I think I need or deserve, I am instead being an enabler to myself. Which really holds me back more than any amount of fatigue or pain. I am enabling myself by standing in my own way.

Things like weight loss, keeping my house clean, keeping track of school work, laundry, and generally feeling on top of things has alluded me for the past couple of years. Which honestly, is completely new to me. This is not who I have been in the past, so I'm not sure who this impostor is who has been living my life.

But no more, I say! No more excuses.

Also, I am starting a little project right here on this blog. It is my own idea, not to say that it is original, but just to let you know that I am not copying anyone on purpose.

It is called 365 days of Reality.

You see, I have read about and talked to people over the last little while who are tired of blogs taking on the glow of perfection that doesn't really exist for anyone. Yet, we don't want to listen to someone whine all day either. But I think that in reality, EVERY day is both a perfection day, and a whiny day. Because elements of each usually happen all day long.

I have always tried to be honest in blogging about our life, to show the good and the weird, and the hilarious, and the messy.

But I thought it would be fun to be COMPLETELY honest, for a whole year. I think it will be fun for me, because I will have an entire complete year of the life of our family chronicled. Not just the little moments here and there that I spruce up to show you.

I am not exactly sure what this all will look like, but I think it will be fun to do something different, while still keeping a history of my family.

So tomorrow I will tell you about today, because I can't tell you about today until it's over, right?

But just to start off the year right, I will include for today the requisite New Year's Eve pictures. And just tell you the highlights from yesterday,Kay?

Highlights from yesterday:

Dog pooped in the house.

Got my hair cut, and when we returned to the car, the same dog had pooped in the car.

Then, when I tried to start the car to leave (after flinging the poop away), it wouldn't start.

Called Jeff. He came home. Luckily the car had started by then. But he bought a new starter and fixed that baby right up!

Starts like a dream now.

Hurried around like a mad woman cleaning my house to give the impression that "it always looks like this" for the missionaries to come over. (And FYI, I do this on the day that my parents come for piano lessons as well. Except, I know I'm not fooling them. But then my dad can sit and chat instead of feeling like he has to help his poor overwhelmed daughter clean her house)

Had a green smoothie that was delicious, but made me gassy. Ha ha ha! Did I just say that? Yes I did.

Played a supporting role in getting the kids to bed. Mostly I took over when I thought that Jeff had reached his boiling point. Which admirably, is pretty high. For some reason, all the staying up late and waking up late over break, hasn't worked itself out yet. Weird.

And then finally, fell asleep. Beautiful, blessed sleep. Amen.

We went to the house of some good friends for New Years. They have a tradition of making their own hats. We jumped in excitedly, of course, and had a great time, with so much food, Just Dance, Fireworks and grooving to music, and hat decorating, that it will be hard for another party to live up to this!

Oh, and Kate wasn't there. She is big now and went to a youth dance with friends. Boo. Hoo. Life goes faster than you think.

2011-12-26T11:31:00.000-08:00

How was your Christmas? Ours was fantastic!

Things that made it awesome:

1.My parents and Jeff's parents(you both know why)

2.Two friends from church that dropped off a huge box of goodies and gingerbread houses for my kids.

3.Another good friend who is trading vinyl for curtains so that I could make signs for my girls' rooms.

4.All the friends who dropped off (or mailed-Janet!)goodies and made us feel loved.

5. My children for being SOOO grateful and happy with every thing they opened.

6. My husband for making Christmas dinner.

7. And most of all, my Savior, for giving us a reason to celebrate.

Our day was merry and brite, how about yours?

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T09:15:00.000-08:00

My house is not wrapped in tinsel galore.
Most of my presents come from the store.
My windows are dirty, my furniture is dusty.
My elbows need grease, they're a tad bit rusty.
My young ones are messy, chocolate on their face.
My older ones think posing with Santa's a waste.
My bank account's empty, my car is old
My clothes are wearing out, I'm told
My tree is crooked, my ornaments broken
But something in me has awoken
I am happier than I've been all year
Could it be the joy of Christmas cheer?
Whatever it is, I wish it for you.
May this be your best Christmas, too!

*photo by Becca Kidd

2011-12-22T09:59:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday I went on another field trip. To the Seattle Center. For Choir.

This time it was for Julia's choir, and thankfully, in all seriousness, nothing out of the ordinary happened, no one died.

It was just a bunch of 7th graders singing at Winter Fest and then ice skating afterwards.

Did I go ice skating? Nooooooo. I like to be able to walk. I like not falling down and breaking stuff.

But Julia ice skated and looked adorable doing so.

And double bonus, she WANTED to sit with me on the bus. Even though her best friend went too.
Am I a lucky mama or what?

She fell asleep on my shoulder on the way home. To keep from possibly embarrassing her, I refrained from kissing the top of her head like I used to when she was little.

But I wanted to.

Thanks for asking me to go Julia. I love you.

A change of my heart

2011-12-16T08:24:00.000-08:00

Admittedly, I have had a very tough time getting into the spirit of Christmas this year.

More embarrassing to admit is the reason why.

Money. Yup. I have been a bah humbug because funds are in so short supply right now.

So as I have used grocery and gas money to buy Christmas presents, I have done so with sadness in my heart, rather than the joy that normally accompanies the purchasing of presents for my children.

I know we're not the only ones. People all over the country are struggling. But I suppose I was feeling extra sorry for myself when I considered that most people have only a few children to buy for, while I have been trying to figure out how to buy for 6.

This feeling had me close to tears all day yesterday as I grocery/Christmas present shopped. I was already in a state of high anxiety knowing that buying Christmas presents with grocery money means that 5 days before we get paid again I will begin hearing, "There is no food mom! When are you going shopping again?"
(And not that there really is no food, just not a lot, and none that they like. )

As I walked the aisles of Walmart, comparing prices and generally being in a cruddy mood, I kept finding myself near the same couple. I don't know if they were husband and wife, brother and sister, or a man and his caregiver. But every time I turned around they seemed to be shopping in the same aisle as myself.

The gentleman was probably in his fifties, in a motorized wheel chair, limited use of his arms, and from listening to him I figured that either he had been in an accident that caused him not only his mobility, but also caused some brain damage, or whatever had caused his mobility had changed his perspective and given him a more hopeful child-like outlook. I couldn't tell which, and it ended up not mattering, but being a huge blessing instead.

In the toothbrush aisle, I first heard him asking his companion why there were so many people at Walmart today. She told him they were all Christmas shopping. He smiled big.

In the band aid aisle he was asking her when the Charlie Brown Christmas special would be on. "It should be soon. " she told him. "Oh good." he replied. "I LOVE the Charlie Brown Christmas special."

In the middle of the main aisle, as I perused the overly processed contents of a goodie shelf and as she looked it over as well, he started singing. "And every mother's child is gonna spy, to see if rain deer really know how to fly!" And you know what? The grinch's heart grew. And I started singing with him. We finished jubilantly with "Merry Christmas....to you!!!" He smiled at me, she gave me a grateful look, I told him good job, and then I walked away and promptly started crying. Because as we are all learning, I cry. A lot.

I couldn't make this stuff up if I tried folks.

I realized, that in the entire store of Walmart, that man understood the spirit of Christmas better than all of us. As we all hustled and bustled, he was experiencing pure joy at what Christmas is. And why should he be happier than me? He couldn't walk, he could hardly use his arms and my impression was that money did not grow on trees for them either. But yet, he was the one breaking out in song. And I was the one sulking.

But as I walked away, my humbug-ness washed away. I was flooded with how blessed I am. I was so immensely grateful that Heavenly Father loves me enough to have put that man in my path. He could have humbled me in so many ways. But instead, I was shown the spirit of Christmas present, with a duet in Walmart. (And don't think I didn't realize how glad Jeff or Kate would be to NOT have been there to experience my public performance)

I tried to pull myself together. As easily as I cry, I am just as easily mortified when people notice. But I stood in line happy all of a sudden. Nothing in my financial situation had changed. But I was gently reminded of how fortunate I truly am.

I can walk. My husband has a job. Those six children I am worried about buying for? Well, duh! I have SIX children? How lucky is that? It's the biggest blessing in my life. Second only to having met Jeff.
I realized how fortunate that I even have the ability to dip into my food money to buy presents. I was reminded that my one tank of gas miraculously lasted two weeks, leaving me with more money for presents for my children. Our ENTIRE extended family lives within an hour and a half of us. All of my siblings and my parents, all of Jeff's siblings and his parents. We're all relatively healthy, discounting for age and auto-immune disorders:) I can park in my garage. I HAVE a garage. I have a house. I have heat that I can turn up when it's colder than normal. The list goes on and on, and it did, in my head, as I stood in line.

When I got back to my car, I sat and wrote down everything I've been able to purchase the past two months using my system of food money as Christmas money, plus the little bit I had left over after bills from my basement boutique.

And honestly, it should not have been possible to provide my kids with as nice of a Christmas as they are going to have, and still have had enough food to eat. Enough, meaning no one went hungry, they just didn't get the normal snacks they love.

I'm not sure how it has all worked, I just feel really blessed that it has. And I don't feel sorry for myself anymore. And please don't you either. Feel sorry collectively for all the people who don't have enough right now. Because I'm not one of them.

I have enough, and to spare obviously.

I just didn't know that until carols were sung in the aisle at Walmart.

God Bless Us. Everyone.

(Christmas tree courtesy of one of Santa's most beautiful elves. Crookedness courtesy of the Allen Family)

2011-12-15T07:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a first in our family.

Kate and Julia went shopping together. Without me.

They have both done things with their friends, without me being there. No biggie.

But this was the first time they asked to go shopping without their madre. Their mama. Their maeinha.

And it's ok. As Jeff reminded me, more than once, this is part of their development. Yes, I know that. But I can still give a little sigh at the passing of time, and at the growing up of my children.

I didn't totally understand why they wanted to go without me. I wondered if I had officially hit that annoying status as a mom to teenage girls.

But then I saw this photo they took together at the mall:

And I understood. It's not that they don't want me around, it's just that they love each other SOOO much. And now that they both have their own rooms for the first time in their lives, they want to plan sister time. Time where they bond and love each other, and grow their relationship. Not that they would necessarily put it that way themselves, but that is how I see it. And I'm so grateful.

Sisters and best friends. Just as it should be.

Sleep

2011-12-14T09:39:00.000-08:00

There are many perks to being a stay at home mom. I get to hang out with my not-in-school-yet kids, I get to be there when the older ones walk in the door. I'm always available if someone is sick and needs to come home, or stay home from school. If I don't want to wear make up or do more than put sweats on, I can.

Before anyone was in school, our day didn't start until the first child woke up. I loved that, because, well, I don't especially like getting up in the morning. Kay?

But now that I have older kids who have to be out the door early, there is no sleeping in, ever. And next year? In our church, starting in 9th grade, the kids go to early morning seminary. It's a M-F class where they study the scriptures. What time does it start? 6 AM. Yup folks, Kate will need to be out the door at 5:45 next year. It's so early so that they can be done before school starts. And their teachers? Not paid. Volunteers who willingly prepare lessons and get up early to teach our high schoolers and give them a spiritual start to their day.

Will I be getting up that early? Ummm, would I be a bad mother if I said, only when it's my turn to drive for carpool? My mother was up and had breakfast for us every morning. Our early morning seminary didn't start until 7, but still. I have that to live up to. Not sure I will.

Anyhoo, the whole point of my little ramble is that being a stay at home mom, who doesn't like to get up, it's tempting for me, when my kids are overly tired, to consider letting them stay home. 1. because I don't have to be to work, and 2. the thought of crawling back in bed is nice.

So what happened yesterday when Anne Marie looked like this?

She still went to school. But I considered it. She looks so sleepy, and in need of a few more hours. But then I remembered how the night before, she would not go to sleep when told to. Sooo, sympathy dissipated, and lil' miss got up and went to school.

But when the days are shorter, the air colder, the sky more grey, it's awfully tempting to hit snooze,snuggle back in, and NOT wake anyone up.

Christmas break starts in 7 days, thankfully. I. CAN'T. WAIT!

2011-12-09T09:29:00.000-08:00

How has this little girl:

Become this little girl?:

So fast? I shouldn't peruse old photos of my children. Because then I realize that time is flying waaay faster than I thought it could.

Counting our blessings

2011-12-07T10:07:00.000-08:00

This is a difficult post for me to write. What should be just about Charlie's awesome field trip to The Seattle Center, has a tragic side story to it.

It's not my story, but it's intertwined with his field trip that day. So I wasn't sure how to tell about our day without including what happened. But I hesitated to tell what happened because it's not my story, make sense?

Read on.

First of all Charlie was really excited to have me go on this trip. He even chose, on his own, to sit with me instead of his friends. He obviously wanted to spend some quality time with me.

He even "let" me have the window seat. Nice view, huh?

The whole purpose of Charlie's field trip was for the kids to sing at Winterfest at The Seattle Center. He is in Honor Choir, which is for 4th and 5th grade students. They go to school early every Friday to practice. Their reward at the holiday season is to go to Seattle and perform. I was lucky enough to chaperon for Kate and Julia when they went. Remember all the fainting?

This time the kids got to go up in the Space Needle first.

(Shot from the elevator going up-that's the EMP)

Charlie was very excited.

The group I was in charge of included Charlie and 5 other boys.

They pretty much ran around the outside of the Needle all excited, with me constantly telling them to "Stay together!!".

Charlie hung back with me a lot, sweetie that he is.

What a handsome boy, if I do say so myself.

After what was about 10 minutes, they were bored and wanted to go to the gift shop. No joke.

So we headed down and spent the next HALF AN HOUR perusing the over priced merchandise.

After all the coveted items were purchased, we headed over to the Center House where they would perform, and where there is a food court, to eat our lunch and hang out until it was time for them to sing.

Jeff had met us there to eat and watch the kids perform. As did many other parents. We were finishing up our own lunches so we sent the boys over to their teacher to warm up while they waited to take the stage.

Jeff and I gathered up their coats and belongings and headed over to find a seat. As we approached the stage, we saw a security guard performing CPR on an older gentlemen who was laying on the floor. We quickly averted our eyes because it instantly felt like we were intruding on something very personal, especially since his wife was standing 2 feet away watching.

Some of the children had noticed what was going on, but the Seattle Center folks were quickly erecting a curtain around the whole scene to protect the privacy of the situation.

This gentleman had collapsed right in front of the stage, and the children were just to the left of it waiting to go on.

By now, EMT's were there and had taken over working on the man. Speculation among the chaperone's and parents was growing, wondering who he was, and saying "please don't let him be there to watch a child."

For myself, I began crying. I couldn't help it. Someone's life was slipping away 15 feet from me, and the tragedy of the situation hit me very hard.

Then word came, he was the father of one of the children in Charlie's choir.

We were stunned, and new anguish for the family spread through me.

This man, his wife and their adult son, had come to the Seattle Center that day to watch his 10 year old daughter sing in her Honor Choir. They took a front row seat, and then I can only imagine what happened after that.

They worked on him for a long time. It finally became evident that it would be both impossible, and inappropriate for the children to take the stage.

But as 9 and 10 year olds, they were mostly unaware of what was going on and just confused as to why they couldn't sing. So their choir director, who was AMAZING throughout this, had them sing a few songs where they were standing.

So instead of this:

They performed right here:

No mics, no risers, and only one of the songs they had prepared. Just sweet children's voices singing as the father of one of their classmates returned to his Heavenly Father.

Yes, the man died. Right there where his daughter was to perform.

It was one of the most profoundly tragic things I've ever witnessed. 3 weeks before Christmas.

The kids were mostly oblivious, just sad that they had not been able to perform. I'm glad for their innocence, for the lack of awareness they had at what was going on. I tried to explain it to Charlie in a way that would help him empathize. But none of them really understood. I barely understood. I had stood there praying my heart out, asking Heavenly Father to PLEASE not take this little girl's daddy. But it wasn't to be. I don't know God's plan for individual people's lives. I can only hope that the family will be ok eventually. I just know that 10 years is not long enough to have your dad. And when I think of the weddings and grand babies he is going to miss, the tears flow all over again.

As we headed back to the buses, the kids were over their disappointment and just excited to get their pictures taken in front of the big, shiny EMP.

It's hard to not ask why sometimes. Why does tragedy strike some and not others? I have faith in a loving Heavenly Father and his son, Jesus Christ. I know they are at the controls and that there is nothing of this magnitude that happens for no reason. I don't think that lessens the sorrow of losing someone, it may only help to understand and to be comforted when all feels lost.

Hug your spouses tighter, give your children and parents kisses. If I am gone tomorrow, I don't want there to be any doubt that I love my family and that they mean the world to me.

And I don't want to waste any of this life choosing unhappiness when there is so much joy to be found in living.

2011-12-05T07:33:00.000-08:00

I'm off on a field trip with my dear Charlie. He is so cute and excited that mom gets to come with him.

I hope he always likes me this much:)
(It's an older photo of us, but I still love it!)

Sunday afternoons

2011-11-28T08:19:00.000-08:00

I love Sunday afternoons.

Why?
-naps on the couch with the little dog
-no television all day(usually)
-kids sitting around reading
-no where to go (usually)
-watching my children get creative to entertain themselves

I don't really know what they were doing, but it involved letting Nora win. A lot.

Oh, and Anne Marie thinking November is a great month for a bathing suit.

Mondays? I don't love them quite as much.

Why?

-getting up early again
-watching my kids leave and spend more time with their teachers than me
-making school lunches

'nuff said.

happy monday

Show and Tell

2011-11-23T10:33:00.000-08:00

When I was a kid, show and tell was a weekly occurrence. Kids brought in their sticker collections, their stuffed animals, and signed baseballs.

In the year 2011, if you are star student of the week, you get to showcase a poster about yourself, and bring in something to show and tell if you want.

You have one shot a year.

Charlie wanted to bring in his current most prized possession. Our new dog Maisy.

He was so cute and proud. He LOVES this dog. Even when it's other people's turn to have her sleep with them, he somehow ends up with her every night.

A boy and his little black half yorkie, half toy poodle. It's what great stories are made of.

Kind of. Usually they're about big dogs who save people from wells. But I'm sure Maisy would bark a lot if Charlie got trapped in a well or if someone rings the door bell.

Probably just the door bell:)

The winner

2011-11-22T07:46:00.000-08:00

I would love to announce that Melissa over at the The Dillon 6 is our contest winner!!!

She said, "I like the adorable eyeball hat -- the one with that cute little girl in the hot pink shirt. CUTE CUTE CUTE hats!!!"

Congratulations Melissa!

Don't worry if you didn't win, you can still order your very own, awesome eyeball hat!

Just head on over to Once Upon a Hippie and order your very own!

Thoughts from a church bench

2011-11-21T10:04:00.000-08:00

Even though I was sooo tired from my crazy weekend, and all I wanted to do was to stay in bed and snuggle Jeff, I stumbled out of bed yesterday morning to get ready for church. Even with my fatigue, I took more care than normal as I picked out my clothes for church. The choir was going to perform Come Though Fount for Thanksgiving, and I wanted to look my best.

I had to be at church earlier than normal to rehearse one last time, and so I was awake and ready before everyone else. Which meant that dear Jeff would be getting all the kids ready and to church by himself. I did Nora's hair and asked Kate to help dress her so that dad would have one less munchkin to worry about.

As I headed out the door, I felt pretty cute in my dress with whimsical birds on it, eyelet under skirt, and polka dot shoes. With my cupcake breakfast in hand, I kissed Nora goodbye, as she was awake now, gave Kate a hug, who was staying home sick, and got into the icy Blueberry and waited for the windows to defrost.

I arrived at church in time to start warming up. Our rehearsal went well, and I could see the wisdom in asking to be there early.

After the choir was through practicing, I took a seat in the fourth row, sure to put my coat and purse down the pew a ways so that I could save spots for my family when they arrived. And then I waited. It was strange to sit by myself. Strange to sing the opening hymn and listen to the opening prayer without shushing my little ones, or keeping one eye open to make sure people weren't poking each other. During the sacrament, I was able to reflect and think about things on the horizon that have me wondering about the direction our family should go. And I was able to ask fervently how to help one of my children who is having some health concerns. It was nice to have the quiet, but lonely too, and I wondered where on earth my family could be.

I finally decided, as the minutes continued to tick by, that if they weren't there by the time I was done singing, that I would go home and check on them. Our van needs a new starter and has not been starting consistently, so I figured that was probably the problem.

As I thought this, Jeff and the children all came filing in. And yes, the car wouldn't start. Jeff had bits of leaves and dirt on the back of his sweater still from where he had laid on the ground to get a good look under the car. The van had finally started, and they were at church! I brushed off the back of Jeff's sweater and gave him an affectionate squeeze. He was happy none the less, and the children for the most part, sat quietly as we listened to the talks on gratitude.

The choir number went beautifully. It was one of those moments when being part of a ward choir felt worth all the extra time put in. I came back to our row to see Jeff in a new place between Charlie and Anne Marie. Henry leaned over and said, "Mom! I tried to wave at you, but you wouldn't look at me!!!"

"Henry, " I softly said, "when you are singing in a choir, you have to look at the lady moving her arms around. I'm sorry I didn't see you."

He was a little appeased, but still sad that mommy had watched the director instead of him.

I asked Jeff how he thought the choir sounded, and he said that the parts he heard sounded good. I'm sure that in the middle of moving disruptive kids around, and trying to quietly shush everyone, that the choir sounded wonderful:)

At that moment, all the support Jeff has given me really flooded my emotions. So I just gave him my 'I love you so much' look, that he knows and understands. He reached over and rubbed my calf in a return sign of affection. But at that moment, I felt slightly horrified. In my careful efforts to get ready and look nice that morning, I had skipped shaving my legs to save time. Thinking that they weren't that bad and no one would notice. Until Jeff touched my leg that is.

So I apologized. "I'm sorry my legs are prickly." I whispered. "I didn't shave them today."

"I don't care at all." Jeff replied, giving me his best smile.

"Really? You don't care that they're all prickly?" I questioned. I always wanted my legs to be smooth when Jeff touched them. So I was still embarrassed that I had skipped that step.

"Amy. I don't care at all. I just like touching you. I love you and I think you're beautiful." He lovingly said. His voice was like honey as the affection practically dripped from him.

I just beamed at him, feeling so lucky and blessed. Not just because he didn't care that my legs were stubbly, but because in that moment I realized that I didn't have to be perfect to be beautiful to him. His love for me is much more than constantly smooth legs, a flat pre-baby tummy, or a line free face. Those were things I could offer when I was 22. Before 6 beautiful babies, before 15 years of marriage, before the realization that love and eternity last, where as looks fade.

I sat and thought about this for a long time. Trying to listen to the last talk as I thought about what real love is. Not just between husband and wife, but the love that God shows to us, the love that we can have for each other. You could insert any physical trait into this sentence. I don't have to be ____ to be beautiful. But it's impossible to leave out the words kind, loving, honest, giving, etc. etc.

You see, it's really who we are that makes us beautiful as women. If you rated me on physical beauty compared to celebrities and super models, I wouldn't even be on the chart. But if you rate me in my husband's eyes, and include all the things he loves best about me, I win every time.

So while I may still find myself looking at magazine's in the grocery store from time to time, wishing my legs were smaller or my arms more shapely, I can guarantee that Jeff never does that. He doesn't compare me to anyone else, and he thinks I'm the most beautiful of any.

Because beauty fades, wrinkles show up no matter how hard we try to keep them at bay, things sag and bag over time.

But the twinkle in your eye? The affectionate hug and kiss every evening? The kind words spoken to someone in need? The love between a husband and wife?

Those things last forever.

2 things

2011-11-18T10:45:00.000-08:00

1. Today is the last day to enter the giveaway. Only 11 people have entered! Do you know how good your chances are? And even if you don't win, Jen's hats are such a great price, you can just go ahead and order one anyway and get the 10 percent discount! Just enter BLOGPARTNER at check out. Contest closes at midnight tonight! Hurry! Don't wait!

And 2. Tomorrow is the Basement Boutique. I hope as many of you that can are coming. Who knows, maybe I have nothing awesome, but Amber does! Plus you can have a free cupcake! Isn't everything better with free cupcakes?

3. A couple of sneak peeks at two of the things I've made. This lovely sign that pretty much sums up my life philosophy-hugely inspired by The Nester.

And a pillow-in case you were wondering. A RUFFLE pillow! It really looks so much better in person. Why is that?

And don't look at how dirty my couch is. The slipcover is off getting whitened!

I guess that was more than 2 things. My brain is only half working right now. I'll be better Monday:) Hope to see you tomorrow from 10-8!!

A list

2011-11-17T09:49:00.000-08:00

Girls, who you marry is so important. There is a huge list of things he should be. Write that down, and then become that list yourself so that you can attract the guy you want. I'm not sure if I accomplished that, or if I just got lucky. Part of my list was:

1. He should be a good father.

2.Devastatingly handsome.

3.And a total goofball.

Looks to me like I won the jackpot.

Oh, and 4. If you're crazy busy trying to make stuff for your first ever basement boutique, he should be willing to put the kids to bed every night by himself for 2 weeks and not complain at all.

Thanks Jeffy. I couldn't do this without you.

Life Lessons Learned Grocery Shopping

2011-11-16T12:53:00.000-08:00

I go grocery shopping twice a month when we get paid. Instead of smaller weekly sessions, I have one huge shopping trip. I get a lot done but I come home feeling crazy.

As my little ones get older, it actually gets harder to shop with them. Anyone else notice this? A crying baby can be contented with a binkie or a bottle. But 5 and 3 year olds seem to require a little bit more when shopping and riding in the car for 4 hours.

I usually start out each trip on edge, knowing I have about 2 hours before they are tired of shopping. As they get tired and cranky, I get frustrated because I just want to get it done and go home.

But the past year or so, I have been trying to change my attitude, because honestly, they're going to pretty much keep doing what they do, so it's up to me to make the experience better.

So this is what I have learned about grocery shopping with little kids that can pretty much be applied in all areas of parenting.

1. Getting upset doesn't change anything. In fact, it makes it worse. Staying calm, even when your toddler knocks down and end cap of toilet paper, is the best tactic.

2. Give them treats. Everybody likes treats. Having a routine fruit roll up every time you visit the grocery store makes them happy, keeps them busy for a little bit, and gives them a nice memory attached to the outing.

3. Say yes as often as you can. As a new parent, I thought it was my job to say no to a lot of things in order to keep from raising spoiled brats. But that is not the case. Saying yes to what you CAN say yes to gives your children security. How? Because they don't start feeling like they have to look after themselves for the things they want. They can trust you to meet their needs and some of their wants, and when you do have to say no, they usually handle it better. And I'm not talking about giving them every material thing they ask for, or every cookie they see. But if you find yourself saying no, more than you say yes, maybe rethink your strategy.

4. Feed them. Whether it's a 4 hour shopping trip, or just hanging at home, little kids will often not tell you when they're hungry. They will just get grumpier and grumpier. And if you're out and about and you really do have the time, GO IN to the restaurant. It gives everyone some time to recoup and relax before hitting the next 3 grocery stores. (I go to 4 different places to get the best prices on food. If you can do one stop shopping, then yay for you!)

5. Hit the bathroom before you start anything! Then your children don't remember the frustrated sigh of their mother as she wheels the cart around to head to the bathroom. NOT that I have ever done that. Ahem. Take care of it at the beginning and you will not be annoyed later.

6. Unless you are willing to buy toys every time you go to the store, do your best to avoid the toy aisle. Bigger kids understand, but a two year old?

7. Every time you get your children out of the car, hold them and give them a hug. Henry and Nora love it, I love it, and it gives me a little reminder before we head into the next store just how much I love my kids.

And who couldn't love them, messy after snack faces and all?

And remember these curtains?

You can order your very own if you come to our Basement Boutique this Saturday.
Saturday November 19th
10 AM-8 PM
Amber's Basement
28623 239th PL SE
Maple Valley, Wa

You can order full ruffled curtains or partial ruffled (also super cute!)in white, creme or a linen color.

And did you enter the giveaway? What? You must! It's the possibility for a Christmas gift checked off your list. Don't live in Washington? That's ok, she'll send it to you!
Go! Now! Enter!

Sneaking a peek!

2011-11-15T08:08:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that this coming Saturday is Amy & Amber Designs' Basement Boutique!

Please, please, pretty please come! Enjoy a cupcake, peruse, purchase if you wish, and just enjoy yourself!

Want a sneak peek at something that will be offered?

This is one of my most favorite pieces! Don't ya love my grammar? No, really. If this doesn't sell, I have a lovely little corner that it would be perfect for!

But it could be yours!

Also, don't forget to enter yesterday's giveaway!

Are you ready for a give away?

2011-11-14T14:02:00.000-08:00

Years ago, as a single adult, I went to church with a girl. We were friendly, but not friends, and then we both moved. Good story so far, right?

Well, shoot forward 15 some years and see me and my family camping for Nora's 1 year old birthday and who do we just happen to be camping next to? Why, that girl, that Jennifer girl! We reconnected, realized (at least from my end) that we really liked each other, we became Facebook friends and mutual followers of each other's blogs, and now I feel like I can say that we are friendly AND friends!

Well, as luck would have it, Jennifer is very creative, super talented and she is willing to share that with you all!

This wizard of crafty-ness creates one super fun, very well done, crocheted creations, and she is offering one lucky winner the hat of their choice! Just so you know, how super duper cute they are, take a gander!

Adorable right? All you have to do is head over to her etsy site Once Upon a Hippie, pick which hat is your favor-oonie and let us know in the comments! Plus, she is offering all Spoonful readers 10% off anything in her store, just use coupon BLOGPARTNER when checking out. Now isn't that easy? And wouldn't it be perfect for the little munchkins in your life? Christmas? Winter wear? Birthdays? Dressup?

I'll pick a randomly generated winner and let you all know on Friday. Good luck!!

Update

2011-11-09T11:08:00.000-08:00

Today is an update on the awful-turned-good events of yesterday.

Yesterday, while parking my van at the gym, I sat for a second doing something, and then when I took my foot of the brake to reach over and grab my purse, I realized I hadn't put the car into park. As the van started inching forward, I panicked and went to slam on the brakes, but instead hit the gas, and then hit the rear end of the Cadillac Escalade in front of me.

A swear word might have popped out.

I sat there for a second, shocked by my own old lady behavior, and then I headed into the gym to find the owner.

The sweet lady behind the counter came out with me, then hugged me since by that time I had started to cry. A lot.

Pretty soon a guy came out and said, "Oh, that's Martin's car. I'll go get him. " Great. I couldn't wait to see Martin and tell him I was an idiot.

When he did come out, he wore an expected expression of "what the crap just happened to my car".

He was very nice to me though, as I explained that I had never hit anything(ok, except for the rock, but who's counting), caused an accident, NOTHING! Ever. Until today.

He said that these things happen, but his friend was quick to ask if I had insurance. They looked at the damage, which just ended up being the hitch cover. (I didn't even know there was such a thing. But it seems, that if you own a nice vehicle, that you can cover your hitch when it's not in use.) While I wrote down my insurance info, barely able to see because I was crying so hard.

I handed him the paper, profusely apologized again, and then I left. I had to pull over for a second because I was starting to hyperventilate a little. You see, I am a very emotional person. While other people might be mad at themselves, or bummed out, I get all of that plus an uncontrollable tendency to cry. It's quite embarrassing and it makes me look even more stupid. But I can't help it.

So I went home, amidst Henry and Nora crying that they didn't get to go to the play place at the gym.

At home, I proceeded to do what comes natural, which was curling up on the couch while eating a bowl of cereal and staring out the window. Crying. I had called Jeff and my insurance agent. But we all agreed that it would probably be less than my deductible, but either way I was going to have some out of pocket expenses coming my way. Right before Christmas. Yeah, I was feeling pretty low.

Around 1 o'clock I got a call from Mr. Martin.

The damage was $280. My heart stopped, and I quickly began figuring out how to shave my food budget and Christmas budget in order to pay for this.

Then he said, "I'm in a really good place in my life financially, so I don't want you to worry about it."

You guessed, I started crying again. It never ends with me.

I thanked him over and over, cried some more, and he just told me to pay it forward. Man, I'm crying as I write this.

The goodness of people overwhelms me. This man had no idea I have six children, or that money is tight right now, or that we already were scaling back Christmas a ton this year. He just felt to do something for a bawling women who rammed his car. Occupy THAT protesters.

I have every intention of paying it forward. It might not be financially right now, but I will never forget this. And someday when I'm driving my BMW and some little old lady on a budget rams my car, I will let it slide and buy her lunch to calm her down and we'll cry together. Because that is what you get when you combine someone who is, and I quote, "in a good place financially" with someone who has a good heart.

Don't you feel better about the world? Less cynical? More inclined to help those in need? I know I do.

Now I think I'll go cry some more. It's what I do:)

2011-11-08T10:14:00.000-08:00

I have this friend. I've known her longer than anyone else in my adult life. We started out as roommates my freshman year at BYU, and we quickly became besties for life!

When we were in Utah the girls and I stayed with her and her family. She is the dark haired beauty on the end, sitting by her dark haired beautiful daughter!

Well Sarah, I wish you had been with me today. Not for the first time. But when I ran into the Cadillac Escalade in the gym parking lot, ruining the guys hitch cover, you could have talked to him while I cried in a corner.

As it was, I cried the ugly, sobbing cry while I tried to write down my information.

It's funny how having another grown up with you can make it better when you aren't feeling especially grown up, you know?

I tend to have really strong women for friends. Meaning, stronger than me. I'm morally strong, I make good strong decisions. But when it comes to mini emergencies where I feel like an idiot, not so much.

The best would be to have Jeff with me 24/7, to protect me from feeling sad. But he has to work, darn him. So my sister, or a friend would have been nice today.

I hope you all have someone you can rely on, that is there when you don't feel strong, but instead want to curl up in a ball and suck your thumb, you know?

Announcing Amy and Amber Design

2011-11-04T14:04:00.000-07:00

So over the years, I have been asked from time to time to help friends and family with a room redo, or just advice in decorating.
I am no professional by any means, but it is a favorite hobby of mine and if I do say so myself, I'm pretty good at it.
Well, I have a friend, Amber over at PinePlace who also lists decorating as a favorite hobby, and who ALSO has been asked (way more than me) to help people with their home decor needs.
Plus, we just really like each other, so, we came up with a little plan. Originally it was quite elaborate with big dreams of our own design company where we would run around helping paying customers with their room redo's and home makeovers.
But alas, her full time job, husband and 4 kids, and my crazy life plus husband and 6 kids have kept us too busy to realize this yet. But someday folks.

So for now, we came up with an alternative that will help our need to create, and combine it with other's needs to get great home decor at super prices.
And though we have very different styles in our homes, we love what the other does, and trust each other's design abilities and creative eye.
What did we come up with?
Save the Date

Saturday November 19th
10 AM-8 PM
Amber's Basement
28623 239th PL SE
Maple Valley, Wa

We're calling it our "Basement Boutique" where you will find some of our favorite creations!
Come walk through, eat a cupcake, and find one of a kind treasures, Christmas gifts, re-purposed furniture and plenty for your home!
Bring your friends, your family, sisters, mothers, and BFF's!
And be watching for sneak peeks of what we will have available.
You're going to come right? Pretty please?

Finding the silver lining

2011-11-03T09:26:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'm already starting to wish for days like this again. I do love the smell of fall in the air, and the crisper weather that makes wearing a sweater comfortable instead of suffocating.

But when it rains, the smell of fall changes. And around Seattle, cold and rain together, smells like winter.

Winter? I'm all ready for summer again.

But the leaves are lovely, Halloween was a blast, and I love Thanksgiving. So there are many wonderful things about this time of year, and about living in the Pacific Northwest.

1. Family-we're within and hour and a half of our families!
2. You don't have to shovel rain.
3. Even on the coldest days I still only have to turn my thermostat to 68.
4. I love the ferries and the Seattle skyline at night. Pike Place Market and the waterfront are wonderful.
5. Life is casual here. People are laid back and nice. Truly
6. There are a ton of places to hike and enjoy the outdoors.

Ok, so it's a short list. But I'm working on it. I see the good through the rain. It's a start.

Tell me, please, things you like about Seattle. Anyone?

2011-11-02T08:23:00.000-07:00

Halloween is over, but Anne Marie and Nora are still dressing up.

Or rather, Anne Marie is "letting" Nora pretend to be her dog.

Maybe it's to practice for the real thing? A real dog I mean.

Stay tuned.

Through the eyes of a child

2011-10-28T09:40:00.000-07:00

Two nights ago, Henry came into our room for the umpteenth time after being put to bed repeatedly.

Stories had been read, daddy had laid down with him for a while, he'd been given his nightly drink. But for some reason, little man just kept coming back in.

I don't know about you all, but we tend to get a little frustrated when this happens.

He would hop onto the end of our bed with his big ol' cheesy grin and just sit there and look at us.

"Henry get back in bed."

*stare*

"Henry, it's time to go to sleep."

"But I want to sleep with you guys."

"No Henry."

*stare*

Now as a disclaimer before I tell you what I said next, we rarely spank our kids. I don't like it, Jeff doesn't like it. But for some of the children, just the threat of a spanking works just as good. And then we cross our fingers that they won't call us on it, because most likely they will see that we got nothing but empty threats.

But I was tired. So I said, "Henry, get back in bed or I'm going to spank your bum!"

He looked at me for a second, and then said in the truest, devoid of manipulation, most innocent little boy voice,

"But I thought you loved me?"

And that's when the dagger sunk into my heart. Jeff and I just looked at each other. "Did you hear that?" Yes.

"I don't ever actually spank him. Why would he say that?" All said in hushed tones. Even though he was still sitting there staring at us.

I don't even remember what was said after that. Or how Henry got in bed finally. But I will never forget, as long as I live, "But I thought you loved me?"

And looking back at my own perceptions as a child, I know he was really trying to work out the obvious disparity between my frequent words of love, and my threat of a spanked bum.

There is a quote that has stuck with me by Charles Dickens that says, “In the little world in which children have their existence, whosoever brings them up, there is nothing so finely perceived and so finely felt as injustice.”

I love Charles Dickens anyway, but oh how perceptive he is of truths we sometimes don't see. Henry knew that being spanked for not going to bed was an injustice. And how could anyone who professed their love for him, then treat him unjustly?

It's a good question to ask ourselves. When is spanking an outward showing of our love? Seems to contradict doesn't it?

And I'm not trying to start a spanking vs. no spanking debate. I have spanked my kids. Am I proud of it? No. But I have also been a frustrated, imperfect, harried, tired parent. And I've made mistakes, learned from them, and then made new ones.

I just knew, at the moment Henry said that to me, I would never spank, or threaten to spank him again. Anything I would have to gain by it, would be lost in the midst of a little boy who wondered if that means I don't love him. And that, is completely unacceptable.

Will he always want to sleep with us, be with us, cuddle and kiss us?
No.
But if we're careful, he will always know we love him.
Always.

2011-10-27T09:17:00.001-07:00

This is a shout out to Yvette and Mikayla. We all miss you guys. Utah is lucky.

Who I met!!!

2011-10-26T09:23:00.000-07:00

When we were in Utah, out of sheer luck we got to meet Peter Breinholt. My darling friend wanted to go to a live taping of Good Things Utah for her birthday and he just happened to be performing on the show that day!

AND he happened to be performing my favorite song of his, but it's also one of my favorite songs of all time!!!

When he started singing my girls and I just got so excited, we couldn't believe it.

I have the biggest, cheesiest grin because I was so happy! I gushed all over the poor man about how much we love him and his music, and then I apologized for gushing, and he said, "No, no. I can always use a little gushing." It. Was. Awesome. Seriously.

Listen and fall in love the way we have!!

Halloween! Wait, what?

2011-10-25T09:46:00.000-07:00

So due to some scheduling conflicts, our Harvest Party at church was a little earlier than normal this year.

Which meant that last Wednesday I realized we needed costumes for 8 people by Saturday. Um. Yeah. Can you say STRESS?

Well, it turned out to be not so bad considering I have very awesome children who are much more adaptable and easy going than I give them credit for.

I told them that we had almost zero money for costumes this year, and that everyone would have to be outfitted from what we already had in our overly large costume collection.

No one even blinked an eye. And when all was said and done we only spent 5 dollars on a little Halloween makeup and a hat.

And everyone looked great! Charlie went as one of our favorite literary characters-Skullduggery Pleasant, the Skeleton Detective. While Anne Marie's costume doubled as a opera singer and a brunette Rapunzel, depending on her mood at the moment.

Julia had her heart set on being a vampire. *sigh* long gone are the days of princesses for this girl. Last year she was a mercenary, this year a vampire. What's next? The swamp thing? Kate is all about princesses now. And yes, that is my prom dress from 1992.

Nora was an orange witch thanks to Grandma's birthday present. And Henry ended up being a scary muscle guy. He had about 4 different wardrobe changes before settling on such an "original" costume.

And finally, Jeff and I. My sister gave me the great idea of going as a pregnant 50's housewife and a milkman.
However, Jeff felt that was a tad inappropriate for a church function. Whatevs Mr. Appropriate pants.

So I went as a pregnant housewife anyway, just to show him! (Not really. I actually wear everything I used for my costume, so it was just easier)

And Jeff managed to fit into a Central Washington University band uniform that was obviously made for a 5 ft tall girl. We were both a hit, but he was a show stealer.

So there you have it. If you are ever low on mulah and need a good costume, come on over! ( A few people actually did!) We seriously have more costumes than people and can mix and match like nobody's business!

I'll be surprised if any of the kids wear the same costumes for the actual day of Halloween. But no biggie. We have plenty to spare.

Why Utah?

2011-10-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

I feel that I am finally recovered from a ton of driving, little sleep and lots of fun with my oldest two girls.

Kate and Julia and I and a good friend of ours all went to Utah last week. Why? I will tell you!

About two years ago my friend Cindy showed up at church suddenly looking smokin! Not that she looked bad before, but she didn't stand out, does that make sense?

When I asked her what caused the changed she said, "Dressing your truth.com". I said, "huh."

So I went home looked it up, saw that you had to pay for something or other, and kind of forgot about it.

But a year went by, and EVERY TIME I saw Cindy, she looked amazing. No joke. Hair perfect, jewelry on, perfect colors, everything. So I asked her again to tell me about it. And this time, I listened.

And what I discovered in a nutshell is that Dressing Your Truth was life changing for me and my girls. Yes, LIFE CHANGING. I exaggerate not.

Dressing Your Truth is based on the research of a woman name Carol Tuttle. She found that there are 4 distinct personalities. We all have all 4 in us, but we lead with one. It's similar to the red, yellow, white personality thing. And there are other variations of it as well.

She found that each type had certain shared characteristics. Things that were a distinct part of who we are.

And she made it easy to remember. The Types are Type 1, Type2, Type 3 and Type 4.

Type 1 is bright and animated (That's me, and Julia and Nora and Jeff).

Type 2 is soft and subtle (that's Kate and Henry)

Type 3 is rich and dynamic . (that's charlie)

Type 4 is bold and striking (that's Anne Marie)

She calls them Energy types because of the energy, so to speak, that each emits.

Type 1's have the highest amount of energy and are fun to be around (aren't I fun?) and they are the talkers of the 4 types . You all know that's true about me!

Type 2's are still and soft and subtle. They are the types that everyone likes to be around because they keep us all connected and getting along.

Type 3's are the go for it, get it done types. They have a high amount of energy as well.

Type 4's are the perfecters, they can look at things and see how it will be better. They have the stillest quality to them. Not much loudness and jumping around with this folks. They are very reflective by nature.

I am a Type 1 with a secondary 4. So I lead with those Type 1 tendencies but I have enough type 4 that it becomes a major part of who I am as well. We discovered what Types we were by reading Carol's book, "It's just my nature." I could probably tell people what type they are, but it's best when people discover it for themselves.

So that's an overview. How does the dressing part come in? Well, Carol found that certain colors and fabrication and design lines worked better with different types. Types 1 were so buoyant and light and animated that certain colors or fabrics were too heavy on us. The clothing contradicted the nature of the person.

And this same principle applies to the other types. Type 2's are so soft and love comfort. They even talk quietly and hate conflict more than any other type. So a type 2 wearing something really stiff and scratchy would not match who they are.

Type 3's are so dynamic and make such a presence that if you put them in muted colors that were flowy and soft, it confuses you when they open their mouth and are not muted or soft.

Type 4's are naturally so structured in their nature, always on time, stick to schedules better than any other type, that if you throw pastels or a lot of animation(visual movement) in their clothing, you would expect them to talk more, act more bubbly. But when they stick to the bold colors, and structured clothing, then you are not surprised when they sit so still and say such bold things.

Again just an overview, there is so much info that it's hard to explain it all. So let me show you.

In Utah there is an actual Dressing Your Truth store. They sell makeup, jewelry clothes and they have a salon. It is also where they film club nights and other events that help you learn more about your type.

The girls and I have been wanting to go down there since we bought our courses. We wanted to get our hair done and meet Carol Tuttle and get to attend an event. So we went! And it was so fun. The gal who did our hair is an expert in different "types" and we've seen so many of her before and afters that we knew she would do a good job.

Now, we've all been dressing our truth for some time, so we already knew how to do our hair and makeup and what clothes to wear. But to make it fun, Nicole the stylist, had us put on the "wrong" clothes so to speak, and take off our jewelry so that she could get a before picture. Plus, we all had funky hair from traveling and not doing it that day since we knew we were going to get our hair done.

So the before pictures are a little set up, but it's not much different then before we knew about Dressing Your Truth.

So here is Kate's before picture. She is wearing a Type 3 shirt. Type 3 colors have a fall colors quality to them, some look as if they've been dipped in a tea bath. But on Kate, it makes it so that you don't notice her, you just notice the shirt.

here is Kate's after. See how flowing and soft she looks? Her personality is the same. She is flowing and soft and gentle. Her clothes and hair reflect that about her.

Here is Julia's before. She is wearing black-a type 4 color, which is a no no for type 1's. See how it kind of washes her out? It's too still, and heavy on her. It contradicts her light, happy nature.

and here is Julia's after. Again, her own clothes and jewelry that she put together, she did her own makeup. See how her clothes and jewelry support her animated face? do you see it? Say you see it. Please?

And here is my before. I'm wearing a type 2 shirt, which is just too flowy for me and the color makes me look a little drab. Plus, I think it makes me look frumpy.

and here is my after. I went a little dark in my hair for fall, but I'm thinking I will add a little more blond next time. Notice how my highlights are random? That is a signature thing for Type 1's. We say random things, and are happiest when we allow for some randomness in our lives. So my hair supports that. I think I look like I instantly lost 10 pounds as well wearing the right shirt. See how much brighter my face is? Even my makeup shows up better.

This has been so good for me and my girls, my whole family in fact. We feel good about ourselves every day, plus I have learned to understand things about my family members that baffled me before. Like, why is Charlie so persistent in whatever he wants? Translation: why does he not stop asking once I say no? It's because he is a type 3 and will work very hard for whatever he wants in life, and not likely take no for an answer. We all know people like that right? They get things done.

And why does Anne Marie seemingly ignore me? It's because she is a Type 4 and is her own authority. She already knows what she is supposed to do. It still frustrates me, but at least I know why she does it.

And the other great thing? Kate told me that so many girls at school complain about their hair, and clothes and how fat they are, etc, etc. And Kate said, "I don't have to complain. I like the way I look." Hallelujah!! What parent doesn't want to hear that from their teenage daughter?

I could go on and on, but I won't. Check out the button on my sidebar and see for yourself. It's really one of the greatest things I've ever learned about.

And on Monday I will share some other highlights of our trip. I got to meet someone famous to us! You probably won't know who he is, but you should!!!

Have a great weekend!

P.S. I don't wander around looking to see who is dressing wrong. I promise. Dressing Your Truth is about you becoming your own beauty expert. So I worry about myself. I'm not judging the rest of you!

Mommy's home!

2011-10-18T08:25:00.000-07:00

I was pretty excited to get home on Sunday. I missed all of my children so much. Nora missed having someone to sleep with, so I happily obliged her yesterday afternoon, and we napped on the couch.

And wonderful Jeff documented it!

Why is it that I sleep so soundly with a little one snuggled in my arms?

It's good to be back.

I miss you Jeff.

2011-10-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

We'll be home soon.

Silly baby

2011-10-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

I miss this phase as well. When everything is so funny. When they laugh so easily. Well, I guess she's still in this phase to some degree, simply because she has a laughing-type disposition.

But I still miss it.

Sometimes drool is ok

2011-10-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

I'm out of town this week, visiting a favorite place of mine. But I thought we'd go down memory lane a bit.

Nora was in the 4-6 month range in this photo. Where does the time go? I miss the little drool spots she would leave on my bed, and me, when she slept.

14

2011-10-10T08:07:00.000-07:00

Kate.

Kate is beautiful.

Kate is grateful.

Kate is easy to please with a slightly lopsided, but completely homemade carrot cake with cream cheese frosting!

Kate is loved by her family.

Kate is loved by her awesome friends.

Kate is fortunate to have friends who know what she likes.

Kate loves her new beach cruiser that her Grandma and Grandpa Allen and her Grandma and Grandpa Granger gave her.

Kate is fun. Proving this by having a at home, live action Clue game for her birthday party.

Kate's best friend is her sister.

And if you haven't guessed by now, Kate is a fabulous dresser!

And... Kate is 14!

Happy Birthday Kate! We love and adore you!

Good things

2011-10-06T07:34:00.000-07:00

I received an email folks. An email that I initially thought was a hoax. And then I read it more carefully.

But first, a back story.

Last April, my mom and sister and I attended an event in Seattle called Time Out For Women. Basically it's the most boss conference around. Speakers who are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints travel to different cities encouraging women and telling us how awesome we are, what a great job we're doing, and why our Heavenly Father loves us so much.

We spend two days listening to speakers, hearing uplifting music, and basically laughing a lot staying up late.

I went feeling down in the dumps and discouraged about what my role in life was, and I left feeling renewed as a mother and like a million dollar woman.

So imagine my utter shock when the email I received was from the folks over at Time Out For Women, or TOFW.com asking me, ME!, to be a featured blogger on their website!!!!!!!!

They had come across a certain post of mine and felt it fit with the ideals of Time Out For Women. I was so completely overwhelmed and said yes immediately of course!

And guess what? That is happening....today!!!! So although you've hopefully read it here on my blog, will you head on over to TOFW.com and read it again? I'm in the featured blog section, yay me!

I feel so fortunate to be asked to be part of something I really believe in, even if only for the week that my blog is featured.

The mission of Time Out For Women is such a fantastic one. (from the email I received)It is "to create a place, whether at our events or on our website, that women can feel the unity and strength that they as women have to become and do good in the world. It’s a place where women can reconnect and recharge. The 2011 Theme for Time Out For Women is Choose to Become. We are inviting women everywhere to choose one thing they want to do, change, or learn to become a little closer to the woman they are meant to be. TOFW.com features blogs where women share something about their process of becoming."

Seriously, I'm on cloud nine today.

Won't you join me over at TOFW.com? Please, pretty please? And then will you come back here and tell me what you thought?

You know I love all of you so much-my family and friends and those I have come to know through blogging, and those that read my blog quietly, but I know you're there! Thank you so much!

I love having a place to share who I am, who we are as a family, and all the little joys that add up to be Amy's Spoonful of Sugar. Thanks for going on the journey with me!

Approachable

2011-10-04T09:40:00.000-07:00

This is my facebook photo. It's deceptively warm and inviting. Don't be fooled!

Whilst at the grocery store yesterday, I realized that I look friendly. And that means that random people say things to me because I look approachable.

One woman, who was there with her husband and son, looked at Nora and asked me why she wasn't in school. I told her, "Oh, she's only three." Cuz I was thinking that she thought Nora looked old enough to be in school. No.

"Oh, she's old enough!" She then pointed to her son and said, "He's only two, but the moment he turns three he's going to school! There has to be a preschool somewhere nearby me, and when I find it, he's going!" She said this in that exacerbated sigh-like way that says her son is a handful.

I personally was so confused by this since I'm already feeling anxious about Nora and Henry being gone from me. So I just gave a half smile and kept going. Wondering why people talk to me in the store, and offer me their opinions about what my child should be doing

As we turned a corner, Henry was playing a game with me that is slightly embarrassing in public. He runs at me from behind, and then I stopped suddenly and he slams his little fists into my backside. He finds it hilarious, I don't think it's quite as funny, but I let him do it anyway cuz it keeps him happy while we're shopping.

Well, a woman saw us doing this, and figured it meant I was laid back enough to talk to, and she scampered to turn her cart around and catch up with me. She then proceeded to tell me that even though the economy was not doing well, her company was thriving during it and would I be interested in being in her down line? I had to ask her what company. Melaleuca. First of all, if you're trying to tell me that you're doing well at your business, you should attempt to portray yourself as doing well. Hair done, tidy clothes. Otherwise you just look desperate. Which she probably was, and my heart went out to her. So trying to be nice, I said, "You know, I have 6 kids, I'm pretty busy and don't have time." She replied with, "Well would you at least be a customer? The products could ship right to your house!"

This is all standing in the aisle at the grocery store. I politely declined, and she walked away dejected. It honestly took guts to do that. I could NEVER do that. Selling things is not my strong point. I can't stand rejection.

But I decided that I need to scowl a lot when I go to the grocery store. I need to look unapproachable. In the past I have had more comments than I can count about my kids, I've been approached about selling Mary Kay twice and some other at home business another time. And while I appreciate people's ~~rudeness~~ thoughts about my children, and their efforts to expand their at home business, I'm just not interested.

Grocery shopping is already a less than serene event for me, and to have my focus and thoughts interrupted by advice and business opportunities is not ideal.

Now if you want to stop me and tell me how lovely and adorable my children are, or how great I look, or that I have toilet paper stuck to my shoe, be my guest.

Otherwise, I'm too busy, too grumpy, too mean and definitely NOT approachable!

(who am I kidding? I will always smile and nod politely. It's just who I am. How about you?)

2011-10-03T10:35:00.000-07:00

Kate is so nonchalant while I practice karate moves around her!

Ok, I don't know karate, or really any moves of any type. Well, except some outdated dance moves. Can you say Roger Rabbit? Running man? If you know those moves, you're either into the 80's/90's or you're as old as me.

What was the point of my post? Oh,right, I didn't have one.

Except that maybe I really love caffeine free diet coke? and my daughter? and talking with my hands?
Or is it that I need my roots done? or that I should wear makeup in public?

Wait, I remember, today is October 3rd! 28 more days til Halloween!

No, that wasn't it either.

I can't remember, which is pretty much my life these days. But you love me anyway, right?

Turn that frown upside down

2011-09-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

On days when you feel like this:

Or this:

What do you do to change it to this?

And this:

For me it helps when the sun is shining, and I have a splendid walk with kiddies in tow. And being able to enjoy the day at home without anywhere to go is helpful as well.

Other things that help:

1. diet coke
2. chocolate
3. being down a few pounds
4. date night
5. other people's babies
6. a clean kitchen
7. all the laundry done
8. money in the bank
9. fresh homemade bread
10. sleeping in
11. new clothes
12. shopping
13. redecorating
14. warm chocolate chip cookies
15. a great book
16. a great church meeting
17. a bubble bath with candles and a good book...alone!
18. family movie parties
19. my kids telling me they love me
20. my husband's arms around me

What does your list look like?

When a little boy turns 5

2011-09-28T08:33:00.000-07:00

When you are a 5 year old boy, what do you want for your birthday more than anything else?

You want.....a bike!

And not just any bike, a GREEN, HOT WHEELS bike. Yes, he specifically asked for this bike. And I found an awesome dragon helmet at Good Will for 5 Bucks!! It looks brand new. So don't tell Henry!

And for his cake? Perry the Platypus, courtesy of mom's baking and dad's decorating skills.

Henry shared the day with his cousin Joel, who though 5 years older, also like Phineas and Ferb. My sister(in law) Amy made a lava cake. Um, yum? Seriously. Lucky boy to have a lava cake.

I love how excited little kids get about other children's presents. It never bothers me. Everyone wants to see what the birthday boy gets, don't they?

And despite how we look, Kate and I really were excited about being there. But getting our picture taken? Not so much.

So Henry is 5 now. 5? Really? It was just yesterday that he was a little jaundice baby in his bili box, too sleepy to nurse, and in need of constant holdin'. Oh how we love him.

~Henry is sweet and cuddly and goofy all at the same time.
~He loves his family so much, but I swear the kid loves his friends in a way I have rarely seen.
~His daddy is his favorite person in the whole world. And I'm not just saying that. He got hurt last night and I rushed to him, and you could see him eyeing his dad. I told him, "I know you want your dad, but I'm going to comfort you, ok?" He snuggled into me, but I know it wasn't the same for him. And don't think for a second Jeff doesn't know this. Oh, he knows.
~Henry missed the cut off for kindergarten. So all of his friends went this year. He's already bigger than everyone, so next year? They're going to wonder who the giant kid going to kindergarten is.
~Henry blesses our family in so many ways, from his sweet little prayers, to his random temper tantrums, to the way he won't kiss anyone, to the way he snuggles when he's sad or tired, everything about him just melts your heart.

And why wouldn't it, I mean, just look at that face!

Happy Birthday Henry!

One more reason being 8 is great!

2011-09-27T13:11:00.000-07:00

Our weekend was wonderful and busy! Anne Marie was baptized with her cousin Layla on Saturday and it was Henry's birthday on Sunday. I laid around all day yesterday recovering and it was awesome!

It was sweet to see how supportive Anne Marie's brothers and sisters were. Kate, Julia and I sang a song for the baptism and I had to look down the whole time to keep from crying. Which, if you've ever performed, YOU DON'T LOOK DOWN! You look at your audience. But I just couldn't.

Anne Marie and her cousin are only 18 days apart in age. So it worked out perfectly to have them baptized the same day. What a great memory for both of them.

If you're curious as to why we baptize our children when they turn 8, go here for a better explanation than I could ever give:)

I love my sweet daughters and sons. It is such a wonderful thing to watch them choose the waters of baptism and to see their inner glow.

I'm so happy my family is forever!

Balloon Battle

2011-09-23T13:39:00.000-07:00

It is super hot here today!! Summer is here, yay! Oh wait, it's September. Hmm, that's fine. I'll take whatever we can get!

We're off to celebrate birthdays and baptisms this weekend. But I wanted to leave you with a little video by our very own Julia. Starring Henry and Nora. It cracks me up every time I watch it.

Enjoy!

Running/playing on the trail

2011-09-22T13:30:00.000-07:00

Because I'm so devoted to exercise....ok, seriously, because I attempt to try and occasionally do something exercise-ish, I decided today that we would run/walk a trail that goes through Maple Valley. If you're really awesome you can run about 16 miles, maybe more, without leaving this one trail.

We did 4. And I didn't run it all. I haven't done a ton since Ragnar, and I'm totally happy with that. And because I was low key, I let Henry and Nora get out and run whenever they wanted on the way back.

So they would sit for a while...

And then run for a while....

and then sit for a while.....
You get the point. It was soo much fun though. I really enjoyed letting them just do what they wanted. I would run while they were in the stroller, and then I walked while they ran. And you know what? I am TIRED. My legs are tired and the kids ate more lunch than I've seen them eat in a long time.

Now hopefully this means we will ALL fall asleep really easily as well. If that happens, we may just walk/run/play 4 miles every day!

Reason #435 why I love having you around!!

2011-09-20T08:31:00.000-07:00

You help with math homework that I have forgotten how to do!!

You help with homework that I know how to do, but you're especially needed when they're just plain tired of hearing my voice all the time!!

y'all ready for this redo?

2011-09-19T13:00:00.000-07:00

So I promised a picture of the awesome mirror that Frances gave me. And months ago it seems, I promised to tell you about the curtains I made and the master bedroom redo. Well, today is your lucky day. (or not your lucky day if you hate long posts) I'm doing all three!

First the mirror.

My friend Frances gave me this beautiful mirror that had been in her home. I was stunned when she gave it to me, because it is so gorgeous. It was gold, which I loved, and I didn't want to change it.

Here is a before picture I snaked off of her blog:

As you can see, bee-yu-ti-ful!!!!

So I brought it home and put it in my bedroom, and there it sat for a month. Why? Because I could not figure out where to put it that the gold would look ok with the rest of my house. But I didn't want to paint it. However, it could not be denied any longer. I had to make it match the rest of my house, otherwise the gift would be wasted sitting in a closet somewhere unused.

I wanted to preserve the integrity of it, I didn't just want to spray paint it silver and have that be good enough.

So I used this 10 dollar bottle of paint. It's called Sophisticated Finishes. It's a metallic surfacer in Pewter. It took two coats, and careful painting of a pretty detailed surface. But the end result? See for yourself. (Frances-I REALLY hope you like it!!!)

To die for? Yes? Everytime I walk into my bedroom, I get excited looking at the mirror. It somehow brought the whole room together.

That tall dresser/lingerie chest? I bought it off of Craigslist for Nora when she was born. We did some rearranging and it ended up in our room. It was cream colored with gold drawer pulls. Well, I fixed that, on accident. When I was trying to hang the mirror by myself, I accidentally knocked over a little can of mint green paint that I had been using to improve my night stands. Luckily it didn't go onto the carpet, just all over my dresser. So I scooped up as much as I could, and not wanting any to go to waste, I just dipped my paint brush in the puddle on the dresser and started painted the lingerie chest. Then I used left over pewter metal surfacer, thank you very much, and painted the drawer pulls.

Oh, and the ruffled lampshade? I just used the same instructions that I did for the curtains I'm going to show you, and then hot glued it on. Don't worry, I'll link you to where I found the smarty pants who figured out how to make these bad boys!!

It's not a good picture I'm sorry. And you can tell that I did the one on the left first because it is not as good. Oh well. Here is a close up.

So I saw these fabulous waterfall ruffle curtains on A Beach Cottage(her bedroom is also the inspiration for mine). I looked them up on Urban Outfitters, and they were $80. A panel!!! That was not working for me, so I started googling ruffle waterfall curtains and found this gal.

I followed her directions exactly, EXCEPT, I didn't want each ruffle as wide as she made hers, so I cut them in half which kept the length of the curtain the same, but meant twice as much sewing. I ain't gonna lie. I spent about 16 hours on these babies. Admittedly, it would have been less if I had kept the ruffles wider, but I love them this way. And they only cost 10 dollars a panel. A lot less than 80, and I like them better!

And for the lamp shade, I used a sheer material thinking it would be all light and pretty. Which it is, but when you turn the light on, everything shows. All the mistakes,everything. So I would use a heavier weight material next time.

The rest of the bedroom has some together slowly. Some finds from goodwill and "junk" stores. Moving around things I already had, and yard sales. Seriously folks. I spend soo little money. I don't have a decorating budget. I have a 12 dollars here, 20 dollars a paycheck there, budget. You can do this. You just have to be patient.

Here is our little reading nook. I know that not everyone has such a stupidly oversized master bedroom. (it came this way. I would never design such a large bedroom. Although I love it now.) So you might not have room for a bigger area. But if you can squeeze a comfy chair in anywhere, I highly recommend it.

Don't you love that girl reading? It's a giclee that I found at Goodwill of all places. It's by Jean-Honore Fragonard and it's appropriately named "A Young Girl Reading".

I did splurge on lamps for our nightstands. They are from TJ Maxx and they were $30 each. But that included the shades. I thought it was a good deal. Oh, and a few clearance pillows I was fortunate to find. And the "iron" bed is from Ikea. It was 99 dollars. I sold something to pay for it. And the yellow crocheted throw was made by my great grandmother. It alternates between the ottoman and our bed.

And lastly, some windows from a 1920's beach house that I found at a garage sale. Jeff is going to hang them on the wall for me, and I have a picture of the temple to put between them. But for the picture, they're just propped up there. I love them!!!

My whole inspiration for our room was wanting it to look like a bedroom in a beach cottage. I feel like it ended up looking more like a beach cottage on the coast of France. And I seriously could spend waaay more time than I should just hanging out here.

Anyway, there it is. Oh, and I left the room grey from my previous bedroom makeover. (I'm a little embarrassed by that one now. But it truly is a work in progress)It just seemed to work somehow. And it saved me 100 dollars in paint, and A LOT of work.

There you have it. I love my bedroom. Let me know if you have any questions about anything. And I'll try my best to answer! Have a great day!

Entre le pot rack

2011-09-15T08:56:00.000-07:00

We are fortunate to have a good sized house. Plenty of space for 2 adults and six kids, I love my house.

However, our pantry is not very large. And it is, in fact, the same size as the pantries of other houses in our neighborhood that have less bedrooms and less square footage.

But I will not complain. My friend/neighbor Laura is always reminding us not to complain about our nice, new houses. And she is right. And I try to do that. But my pantry just can't be improved upon simply from liking my house. It's just not big enough for a family of eight!

Here is proof: (Ignore how unorganized and empty my pantry is, I'm going shopping today!)

I started thinking of ways to increase our pantry space. The only thing that kept coming to mind was to use some of our cupboards. But I'm already using my cupboards, for other stuff!

But then I was over at The Nester, and I saw her pot rack. Just a simple little thing to keep pots. And a light went on. What if I moved my pots to a pot rack, and used the cupboard they HAD been in for other stuff?

So true to my nature, I had to have it, and have to have it immediately! I scoured the internet looking for pot racks. The racks in my price range were simple and a little boring for me. But the ones I really liked were waaaay out of my price range, and all I could do was drool over them.

So then I started looking on craigslist. And I found it. A beautiful, iron, hooks welded on, star pot rack. And it was only $60!!!! But the problem? It was two hours away! The gas alone would cost more than the pot rack, making the good price suddenly not so good.

But being optimistic, I emailed the gal and asked her if she could meet me halfway possibly? She emailed back and said, "Hey, we're going to be in Enumclaw tomorrow (that's 15 minutes from me!!!!!), do you want to meet there?" Um, yes!

So Jeff and I went together, for safety folks, ALWAYS be smart and safe when using craiglist.

And when I saw it, I squealed in delight. Truly. Ask Jeff. I squeal with excitement over good finds!

It was a tad rusty from sitting in their barn. So I just took the grill brush that we aren't using because our bbque is broken and scraped all the loose rust off. Then I washed it with soap and water, let it dry, then gave it a coating of Rustoleum high gloss spray paint in what can only be described as fire engine red. And then my darling husband (who wasn't totally sold on the idea of a pot rack) hung it for me. And he might of had to replace the pendant lights with canned lighting as well. So really, none of this was possible without him. Jeffy is my right hand man when it comes to many of my redo's, decorating notions, and furniture move arounds. I couldn't do it without you darling!

And the results?

Let me just say, that it took some getting used to. And I had to put some doors back on my open cupboards because it was all of sudden much to busy in there. But I love the pot rack itself. I think it's loverly!

But the best part is the space it opened up. This is where my pots used to go:

These pull out drawers sit under my baking center. So it seemed smart to keep all of my cooking/baking food items and needs right here. And all those containers, and the big bag of flour and sugar I normally have that take up so much room in the pantry, can now go here.

Which makes more sense anyway, and now I don't waste time going back and forth and opening and closing the pantry door just to make muffins!

I love it!

What space saving ideas do you all use? Even though we have plenty of room, I'm always looking for more ideas on how to keep the stuff that 8 people need at a minimum.

Ooh, ooh and tomorrow, I'm showing you the MIRROR. My dear friend Frances gave me a mirror. And oh how I adore it and get happy every time I see it. I'll show you that tomorrow!

Now I'm off to fill my sort of empty pantry. See ya!

Sportsmanship

2011-09-14T09:02:00.000-07:00

Anne Marie had her very first soccer game ever on Saturday.

She was VERY nervous.

But with a pep talk from her coach .....

.........she got right in there!

It helped that her best friend was playing on the other team. Every few minutes they would stop to hug, and at one point Anne Marie was running up the field and looked behind her to see that Macy was still farther back. So Anne Marie stopped and waited for Macy, they held hands and ran the rest of the way together.

Every time Macy had the ball, Anne Marie would just run along side her. She never tried to get it away from Macy, or vice versa. And when Anne Marie would do something well, Macy would pat Anne Marie and tell her good job.

I'm not sure it was a good strategy if they wanted to win, but it was certainly a good strategy for their friendship.

Back to school

2011-09-12T08:01:00.000-07:00

For the past three years that I have been doing a family theme, I have not figured out what I wanted until very close to school starting. So close in fact, that my good friend Amber over at Pine Place gets a call about 12 hours before I want my vinyl. And she always does her darndest to get it to me.

It's so joyous to be able to share what we are doing this year. I'm pretty excited about it.

I wanted a theme that reflected our family values, but that also helped the children to look beyond themselves. It would have to be something that mixed striving for personal growth, while also helping them to see other's needs.

We were in Deseret Book a few weeks ago, and I was still trying to come up with our theme. When I literally ran into it. It was part of a plaque type thing that had a talk from one of my favorite people, Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf. He was quoting a scripture.

Joshua 1:9

Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the ^aLord thy God iswith thee whithersoever thou goest.

Our family theme for the year is the middle of that scripture, Be strong and of a Good Courage.

I started by talking to my children about what it meant to be a hero. Of course I heard things that related to super heroes, but then as we talked it was decided that to be a hero meant to stand for the things they believe, to not be afraid to stand for truth and righteousness. To speak out when they see someone being treated unfairly, to not give in when their values are questioned or attacked.

To be a hero means that you are not afraid to do whats right because you have the Lord on your side. So if I tell my children as they leave, "Be a hero!" They know what I mean.

I have the most amazing children. I hope you all feel that way. I believe firmly that our children live up to our expectations of them. And they believe what we tell them. I also believe that we have to encourage them to never talk negatively about themselves, because frankly, we believe what we tell ourselves as well.

If our children can be secure in our love and support, then they will be able to believe in a loving Heavenly Father as well. They will be surrounded by love, and they will succeed in standing tall and knowing who they are, where they came from, and why they are here.

This, I believe.

And I also believe that I have some gorgeous children. Here is proof:

I hope your school goes well. I'm already ready for the first vacation. But that's only because I'm not a morning person. I use to be a go to bed late get up late person. But I've become a go to bed early get up late person. Does that mean I'm getting old? Or am I just lazy? Either way, 6:15 is early to rise for sure!

I am not a clever enough blogger to do a linky party. But I would love it if you all put links to your blogs in the comments and let the rest of us know what you did for back to school this year.

Have a superb day!

10 years ago

2011-09-11T13:09:00.000-07:00

*I originally posted this 2 years ago. But it felt worth it to post it again. I've been re-watching footage from that day 10 years ago. Watching interviews of where people are now who experienced 9/11 first hand. It still brings me to tears. It's unbelievable what we went through as a country. And I truly hope we never forget that.*

I wasn't going to write about it. I just wasn't.

I wrote about my humiliating experience and was not blogging again til Monday.

But I can't, not, write about it.

I feel more aware this year, of the anniversary of the terrorist attacks. I don't know why. I just do. Maybe it's the division I feel in our country that feels stronger to me lately. I don't know. But I remember how 9/11 brought us together as a country. How billboards went up everywhere that said God Bless America. And we were not ashamed of that. How people suddenly were friendlier for at least a little while and we could talk about God and His blessings with humility and renewed faith, without any anger or backlash from others.

So I just wanted to share where I was and what I was doing. Kind of like when Kennedy was shot. And I want to know, please, please, where you were and what you were doing when 9/11 happened.

We were living in Rhode Island. I was pregnant, newly pregnant and sick, with Charlie.

Maile and her two oldest, who were 2years and 3 months old were out visiting me.

I had taken Kate to her first day of pre-school when the calls started coming.

Miss Doris got a call from her sister. The towers had been hit.

I asked if there were people in the planes, yes, both towers or just one, at that point just one.

I wasn't from the east coast, so I had to be reminded of what the Trade Towers were. They weren't a fixture for me the way they were for so many living in the East.

On the way home tower two got hit. Maile was at my house and watched it happen live.
Jeff called home and she told him what was happening. He thought she was joking around with him and told his co-workers who were also just starting to hear from people.

Living on the east coast, it felt so surreal. Our friend across the street new someone who new someone that died that day. (Isn't that right Chris?)

We'd all made our trips to New York, become familiar with it as best as you can as a tourist. And watching the black and grey smoke billowing, just didn't seem real.

For hours we sat and watched t.v. Crying, sobbing, unable to stem the tide of emotions as we watched footage of people jumping from the buildings, preferring the fall to the heat and horror inside. Then hearing of the plane that went down in Pennsylvania, the Pentagon being hit. Wondering, wondering how many more attacks would occur before it was over.

Our landlord worked for one of the airlines. Everything was grounded. Nothing taking off. Fear, slamming into us like a wrecking ball.

I wanted Jeff to come home. I don't know why. Everyone at CVS was watching it at work. I'm not sure how anyone got anything accomplished that day.

We watched footage all the next day as well, until I finally couldn't stand it anymore. We had to get out and do something, think about something else for just a little while. The tragedy, the lives affected, was just so much to process.

At first the numbers of dead they were reporting were immense. I hate to admit it was with relief that I heard it was "only" 3000+ dead, not the thousands upon thousands originally feared.

My poor sister had to fly home a week after 9/11 with her two babies. I think she switched planes in Newark, where one that had hit the trade towers originated from. She had to fly across the country one week after our country changed. I'll let her tell about it in the comments section. But can you imagine?

I just wanted to write about it today. And I would love to know where you were when, as Alan Jackson puts it, the world stopped turning.

End of summer

2011-09-09T09:05:00.000-07:00

Just to prove that we actually did something this summer, I have pictures!

We have friends that live on a lake. Um, yeah. It's pretty awesome. And Charlie and Anne Marie super duper love their kids, so they invited themselves over, I mean got invited, quite a bit.

If I lived on a lake, I would invite you all over, all the time. But I don't. So I can't. Sorry.

And yes, I know Kate is not wearing a life jacket in one picture. I had no idea. And if I did, you can't prove it.

And Julia was there. But she proved elusive to capture on film, or digitally camera-ness. Kind of like the Loch Ness Monster. Or Santa.

I hope you all had a good summer, and that you're not depressed/also really happy, that your kids are back in school.

Isn't weird how that's true? I miss them, I miss sleeping in, I miss the laid back nature of summertime. But I also love having a routine again and only have 2 kids with me when I go to the store.

So for next week, our family theme,back to school pics and whatever else is happening around this crazy house of ours.

Have a great weekend!

Car fixin' and blog awards

2011-09-08T09:45:00.000-07:00

My blog friend Tiffany over at the Twisted Ruffle gave me a blog award! I have met this gal in real life and she is fantastic! She is a home schooling whiz and she has the best head of hair I've ever seen.

As part of this I'm supposed to list 7 random things about myself. Fun, for me. Maybe not you.

1. I count on my fingers. I count syllables in words as I'm speaking them, or as someone else is speaking them. I don't even know I'm doing it half the time. Jeff will notice my fingers tapping on his leg as I count the syllables that people are saying in movies. And I really like it when the sentence ends on my pinky finger. It's totally weird I know. But I've been doing it since I was 14. Can you say OCD?

2. I can scream like a seagull. No really. I actually sound like a seagull. I will prove it to you as long as we are outdoors so that I don't blow your eardrums.

3. My deepest darkest fear is driving off the road into water at night. It's the stuff scary movies are made of.

4. When I was twelve I drove my sister and two friends around in my brothers car while he was at work. I was a little over confident and stupid back in the day. And it was a small town. I figured nobody would see me. And it was true. My mistake however, was driving the car to my brother at work so that he wouldn't have to walk home. And being the honest guy he is, he told my parents. It was pretty embarrassing. But hey, I was still a good driver.

5. I love to sing. I sang in two audition choirs when we lived in Rhode Island. One was a starter chorale group, but the second was pretty well known, we performed with Opera Singers and Symphony Orchestras and traveled a little. I sang second soprano. I miss it.

6. When I was 16 I got rear ended and had major whiplash. Ever since I've had tension headaches and chronic tightness in my shoulders.

7.My new favorite decadence is a Krispy Kreme burger. You take two donuts and you put a hamburger patty, fried egg and bacon between them. It's about 1000 calories of pure evil and it's soooo good. Kate and I share half of one. And now I want that for my birthday dinner. Thank you very much Paula Deen.

So there you have it, my random list. And now you get some random cuter than cute pictures of Henry helping his daddy with the car.

Have a great day!

Complain away NieNie, complain away.

2011-09-07T13:30:00.000-07:00

I was reading a very popular blog today, and the blogger was telling how someone had emailed her and told her to stop complaining about being so sick with her pregnancy because some people would love to be sick and pregnant since they can't get pregnant at all.

This blogger then told anyone who had a problem with her complaining about being sick to kindly not read her blog anymore.

And though I am not pregnant, I have been pregnant a fair amount. And I was sick. Really sick. I figure I was sick approximately 20 months of the 54 months total that I was pregnant.

I didn't have a blog when I was pregnant, but I can guarantee that I either wouldn't have blogged at all while sick, or I would have complained. A lot.

I took medication for some of my pregnancies just so I would throw up less. I still threw up, even with medication.

Things didn't just taste a little funny, everything tasted awful. Except for that one weird thing that finally sounded good that I made Jeff drive all over town trying to find for me.

I didn't just gag, or feel sick to my stomach. I threw up on average 6 times a day without medication. Sometimes more. Medication helped me keep anything down the first three months.

And I did it 6 times. It didn't get better with each pregnancy. It actually lasted a little longer with each one. I had some miracles during pregnancies that eased some of it, but for the most part I just had to wait til that magic 14, 17, or 20 week mark until I could hold all of my food down.

And I complained. I cried to Jeff. I wondered EACH TIME, "Why did I get pregnant?" And then as soon as I didn't feel sick anymore, and I could get out of bed, I remembered why.

I think it's easy for others to say that you shouldn't complain because someone else has it worse. Well that's true. Someone else has it worse. Someone always does. Complaining doesn't mean that you don't know that. It just means, that for that moment, you need to say out loud what you're going through. And that you don't need anyone telling you, "You know, goats in Greenland would gladly eat those holy shoes you're complaining about having to wear." You just need someone to say, I'm so sorry, is there anything I can do?

And of course, this is not a green light to be the person that no one wants to stand by at parties.

I'm just saying, please let pregnant woman complain about anything they want to, ok? They know they're blessed. They know they are lucky. But when you just lost your breakfast for the 20th day in a row, or when you can't tie your own shoes, you lose a little perspective.

I for one, would do it again. All of it. I would be super sick again, 6 times over. Because despite my complaining at the time, I knew then, and I know now, that I'm blessed.

And when I get frustrated with those lovely children that I sacrificed so much for, I also still know that I'm blessed. And when those children jump on the trampolines encased in inner tubes, and use them as weapons on each other?

Yup, I still know.

Clearing up confusion. At least my own.

2011-09-06T15:14:00.001-07:00

I realized after my story yesterday, that y'all aren't in my head. You don't know the main reasons why I turned down the chorus and so I come across sounding like a fussy baby. Which I am. But I don't like SOUNDING like one:)

First of all, I'm not jealous of Jeff. I encouraged him to try out in the first place.

Second of all, I'm not mad that I didn't get a main part or that I was asked to "only" be in the chorus.

I turned down the chorus because it made no sense to me to try and find people to watch my children 2-3 times a week just for me to stand back and watch Jeff dance with someone else. My little heart couldn't take it.

If he and I had been a couple in the play and been able to spend alot of time together, then maybe arranging babysitting would have been worth it. However, when we wouldn't even interact the whole time, it seemed like a lot of strain on the family without the benefit of being together. And there is the whole, WATCHING HIM DANCE WITH SOMEONE ELSE, part. How many of you could do it? I mean, I'm going to have to experience that when we go and see the show. But at least now I don't have to watch it 20 times between now and then.

And if Jeff wasn't in the play, I would have happily been in the chorus. But as per all the reasons above, it just didn't make sense. And because they desperately needed men more than women, I fell on the sword so to speak.

And maybe if Jeff and I did things like this all the time, then we would have something worked out. Taking turns, already having regular babysitters to rely on, something. But as it is, he's in, I'm out, and now I'll be at home watching the kids instead.

Oh wait, I already do that.

And I know that they liked me. They said so. They debated over what to do with me. But ultimately they chose teenage girls to be the brides. I was too old and possibly too hefty to be thrown over anyone's shoulder. (Have you seen the movie? There is a lot of throwing around.)

So that is why I cried and cried. Wouldn't you? But I'm almost over it. Almost. I should be just fine in about 2 months.

Tomorrow I promise I will post about things completely unrelated to this. Promise, cross my heart!

A pity party story

2011-09-05T01:08:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, there were two best friends. Amil and Jefferson. They did everything together and shared many interests, but they also had their own dreams.

Amil always longed to be an astronaut. He thought about it all the time, but wasn't sure if he could take time away from the 6 bunnies he took care of. That was HIS job after all, and he loved them very much.

But then it happened. They advertised for people who wanted to go into space. To be REAL astronauts! Amil couldn't believe it. It was his chance to live his dream! The first thing he did was to run and tell Jefferson. Maybe Jefferson could even take care of his bunnies for him while he was in space!

Then Amil got a GREAT idea, hey Jefferson, why don't you come too?!!! I can find someone else to watch the bunnies.

Well, Jefferson had never thought about being an astronaut, but what the heck, it sounded fun!

Amil was so excited. He wanted to be an astronaut so badly. And if he got to be one with his best friend Jefferson, then all his dreams would be coming true!

So Amil and Jefferson went off to astronaut school. They had to learn a lot of things that astronauts do. They had to learn exercises that were kind of like dancing to keep them healthy in space. They had to sing in order to keep their mouths and vocal chords working. And they had to pretend and play to help their brains work good too!

They both worked very hard. But what they didn't know was that the Astronaut teachers didn't want both of them.

They only wanted Jefferson. They thought Amil would be an ok astronaut, but Jefferson fit in the pilot's seat better. But wait, Jefferson hadn't really wanted to be an astronaut, he just thought it had sounded fun. It was Amil who had dreamed of going into space.

But it wasn't all bad. They asked Amil if he would clean the launch pad so that it would be ready for Jefferson to take off in the big shiny rocket ship. And as much as Amil wanted to watch Jefferson doing what he, Amil, had always dreamed of, he declined the offer. And instead he went home and cried into his pillow.

But hey! At least Amil didn't have to find anyone to watch his bunnies, right?

The end.

(Translation: Jeff got a main role in the play. I didn't. I was asked to be in the chorus and I declined. I deal with sadness through humor and weird little stories!!)

Why I am happy and my kids are sad.

2011-09-03T12:23:00.000-07:00

We took the back seat out of the van!!!! We went camping and found that it was easier to load everything in the back. Well then I realized how great that would be when I went grocery shopping!!

No more stuffing things under seats and in the front passenger seat!

However, my kids are not happy about sitting next to each other. Even without the back seat we still have room for six kids. But now I also have room for groceries!!!

Woo hoo!~

Back to normal, sort of

2011-09-02T10:30:00.000-07:00

So I survived school shopping. Just barely! No, it was fine really. My legs were tired, but I'll take a shopping related injury any day!!!

And Nora is doing so much better! She still slept with me half of the night, but she has not cried at all today! Hallelujah!

And so at least for what's usual in our family, she is back to her normal self!!

School shopping

2011-08-31T08:43:00.000-07:00

This was my head shot that I gave to the directors of the musical I auditioned for. (Still haven't heard if I have a part). But looking at it I thought,"Wouldn't it be great if I could take the kids school shopping today and look this serene and put together by the end of it?"

Then I doubled over laughing for about half an hour. Because lets be honest, I am not going to look like this:

I am going to look like this:

Please wish me luck. I will desperately need it.

This, I want to remember

2011-08-30T12:13:00.000-07:00

Nora is doing better. Her throw up is still sore. (that's what she calls her throat). So we give her the tylenol with codeine, and she gets sleepy, and then she climbs onto my lap and falls asleep.

It's adorable and sweet and completely immobilizing. I spent 45 minutes sitting in the office chair, trying to type with one hand because that's where she chose to fall asleep.

It could be the rough nights where she wakes up crying and can only go back to sleep if she squashed up against me, or with my arm around her.

Or it could be the way watching so many hours of tv drains you, even though technically you're doing nothing.

Either way, we're almost over the hump. And though it's been draining on all of us, and I wouldn't want to prolong her agony, I just know I'm going to miss her following me around and asking me to hold her.

As I carried her into her follow up appointment today, with her head on my shoulder and her blankie tucked under my arm, I had a sudden realization that we were about to move beyond this point.

Not just with her throat getting better, but with her life. The independence that comes with growing up, wanting to do things all by yourself. And there comes the day when mommy and daddy are no longer needed every moment. We're still needed, but not in the same way.

So as much as the near constant crying and crabbiness has been around here, I'm actually going to miss it.

What will, or do, you miss about your kids being little?

12...already?

2011-08-29T11:22:00.000-07:00

You know how I talked about 8 years going by in the blink of an eye with Anne Marie?

Well, the crazy thing is that it happened again. But this time it was 12 years!

Julia is 12. Julia is 12. Julia is 12. I keep repeating that so that I will actually start to believe it.

I mean, how could this be? She was just slamming the door to her room and yelling at me a few years ago. How could she now be this reasonable, lovely 12 year old?

(In our family, the stomping and door slamming happens around 9 and ends around 11. Lucky me, I know. Seriously)

When our children go into 7th grade, they get a phone. They finally are not the only one of their friends to not have one. We upgraded this year though, and gave it to her for a birthday present because we gave her a new phone with it. Kate got her's before her birthday because she just got my old phone. Hence, the happy, surprised look on Julia's face.

But the present she asked for was her very own, super shiny, video-taking....Camera!!

As Julia gets older, she DAILY becomes more and more wonderful. More spiritual, more mature, more lovely, more fun, and easier and easier. Like I said, I'm lucky.

Julia has a strong desire to always be better, to improve, to grow, to surpass her own potential.

She's pretty awesome.

And she has a uniqueness unsurpassed by anyone. One of the things she asked for this year was a lock box to hold her Halloween candy.(to keep it safe from the littler people around here). And to go in it? Milk chocolate chips. Don't ask me why. We stopped trying to investigate how that clever brain of hers works a loooong time ago.

Thanks Grandma and Grandpa Granger! And from Grandma and Grandpa Allen? Cold, hard cash. Money to spend on clothes, or jewelry, or more chocolate chips if she wanted. I wish I had a picture of the look on her face when she showed me the money!

And while I wish that we weren't a family of show stealers (alright, I don't always wish that), without that trait I wouldn't be able to show you this:

Or this:

He just needed a "gentle" reminder that it wasn't his birthday. It was something like, "Sit down Dad!!!!"

And from her cousins who know her better than anyone else, a hand made Harry Potter t-shirt. This girl loves Harry Potter more than anyone else I know. Unless of course you can find someone else who has read the Harry Potter series 12 times. Then maybe we'll have a contender.

And because I love her, and because I cleaned out my cake decorating kit hence feeling capable of decorating a cake again after a slight hiatus, I actually made a pretty cake for Julia. Homemade chocolate cake and frosting-best recipe ever from my friend Teresa-with 3 layers and flowers. Impressive, I know.

I think Julia liked it. And when she blew out the candles.....

......I'm sure there was some amazing wish that was made. Swimming with dolphins? A giant lock box to hide in when she needs to get away? Paragliding? It's hard to say. With this girl, the sky is the limit.

We could not be more proud of this girl. I exaggerate not when I say that she is everything we could have hoped for when she was born. And honestly, we take very little credit. They come to earth with their personalities intact. You can tell when they are babies that they are different from their siblings. We have tried to provide a home where they can thrive, feel loved, and be taught good values. But who they are is all them.

Happy Birthday Julia! You are loved more than you know, appreciated probably more than we tell you, and gifted beyond belief.

You're a gift to this world. And we can't wait to see what you'll do.

Love you girl!!!

Admitting

2011-08-26T16:58:00.000-07:00

I have to admit it. When I have seen mothers yelling at their children in the grocery story, I have judged them.

I have thought,"Wow, if they are that angry in public, what are they like at home?"

And I would go on my merry way, convinced that they were probably mean mommies.

Fast forward to today. With 4 of my children in tow, the 4 youngest, I headed to the grocery store with my sister for some last minute items for Julia's birthday and for a get together tomorrow.

By the time we got to the check out line, I'm pretty sure I had grown horns on my head and that my tongue had turned into a whip of the lashiest kind.

I grabbed the arms of two of the children, (NOT the youngest two) , and with a not so quiet threat on my lips, I stuck them next to the cart and ordered them to not move or speak.

It was then that I realized that there were people around me. And that those people probably were thinking about me the way I used to think about others.

That's right, USED to think. Because right then and there I knew the truth.

It is NOT evidence of a bad mom when she yells at her children in public. It is evidence of a tired mom who left all of her patience on aisle 4 and all of her sanity in the aisle that just happens to have candy on one side and chips on the other. The chips being needed, the candy being ingredients for crazy town!

So to all mothers who have yelled at their children in public that I have judged: I AM SORRY!

But it has given me an idea:

Just attach it to your grocery cart, add children, and voila! Instant good mom.

Whadya think? Too much? Nahhhh.

Things that break a mother's heart

2011-08-25T08:33:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday morning Nora had her adenoids and tonsils removed. Since she was going to be under anyway, our awesome doctor offered to removed 3 warts that we had been trying and trying to get rid of. For free. Yeah, I know, right?

The surgery was quick, and she woke up the way they all do. Thrashing, disoriented, dizzy and stronger than a baby bull. And then the pain set in. "My froat, my fumb, my finger!!!!"

Little miss was in a whole lot of pain. When we got home I gave her the nasty tasting tylenol/codeine combo. It takes the pain away, but getting her to take it is kind of like trying to wrestle with the previously mentioned baby bull. She DOES NOT like it. And then she glares at me like I'm the meanest mom around. I think it burns as it goes down, but then she can actually endure swallowing enough to eat.

So it's a toss up. Do I run the risk of having her hate me for half an hour after giving her the dose, or do I sit and watch and listen to her cry because her throat hurts her so bad because the regular ol' tylenol does nothing? So far I've taken the risk and had her mad at me. But it's not fun. We feel like we're torturing her because she acts LIKE WE'RE TORTURING her!

The only upside to all this, besides her nose not running and being able to breathe through her nose and not snoring and not having sinus problems later on, well the OTHER upside to this is that she has been so clingy. And while I'm tired of watching Dora and Diego, I love that she wants to be with me soo much. And it seems, the only way she'll take a nap is if it's on me.

The flip side to that is the fact that I couldn't even take a shower without her coming with me. If I went to the bathroom, she would cry for me to come back. She's better today. She's watching tv all by herself while I type away in here. But I'm just a cry for mommy away.

It's really all so sad. And heartbreaking, because she has absolutely no idea why she is in so much pain. She just knows that she went to sleep with promises of princess dreams and she woke up with her throat on fire. I'd feel a little put out myself.

It was reminiscent of Henry a few years back. But because of his experience, I thought to take her in when the wee lass' nose refused to stop running. Like, ever.

So now we're in the recovery stage. The ice cream, chocolate milk, bread-not toast, no chips or pretzels phase of this whole thing. And just like Henry's rashy cheeks cleared up within a week of his tonsils coming out, I am VERY optimistic that Nora's eczema will go away.

Yes I know that it is normally related to food. But what if her immune system is so busy dealing with mondoid sized tonsils, and adenoids so big that they are blocking her nose and neither of them doing their job properly, that her immune system is over-responding to other things and causing the eczema?

Time will tell. And I will let you know.

For now, I will be getting to know Dora the Explorer and her companion Boots a little better.

Have a great one.

Cheap labor

2011-08-24T06:38:00.000-07:00

How I'm solving my "can't get a handle on my messy house" problem.

Anne Marie

2011-08-23T11:21:00.000-07:00

Do you ever blink and then realize 8 years has gone by?

That happened to me yesterday. I blinked, and then a second later Anne Marie turned 8.

Tell me how that is possible when I am still 18? Well, inside at least.

It really was a birthday weekend for her. On Saturday Kate and Julia and I took her to the American Girl store that just opened here in Washington!! We were very excited!

Kate and Julia also love American Girl. They got to visit the Chicago store 5 years ago, so we were so thrilled to have one open here.

Here they are getting ready to leave.

Anne Marie in front of the store. Isn't she sooo dang cute? How do you like her new pixie cut? Pretty fab if you ask me.

This picture makes me cry. What mother wouldn't want three wholesome girls who love American girl and each other?

Kate tried to pretend she wasn't as excited, but then when she saw Addy's trunk, she became more animated than I've seen her in a while. And some outfits for Addy may have been added to her birthday list.

After the American Girl Doll Store, we headed over to Claires for another rite of passage. When our daughters turn 8 they get their ears pierced!!!

After such a great day, I only hoped that her actual birthday would measure up!

I tried. With pink frosting.

Grandma Granger was the lone grandparent. Thanks for coming Grandma!!

Anne Marie was more than a little excited about her presents. Clothes as presents! What a way to make a dollar stretch. Give them school clothes as presents.

Kate and Julia gave Anne Marie presents without any help from me. I love those girls.

But the highlight present? The present that got her more excited than any other? The box of 2500 sheets of paper from Grandma and Grandpa Granger. No. You don't understand. We constantly run out of printer paper because Anne Marie steals it all to draw, write notes, and whatever. She is obsessed with paper and all it's possibilities. I mean, just look at her face!

What a great girl she is. We appreciate how much she loves her siblings, how attentive she is to Henry and Nora. How willing she is to help. She is sassy wrapped in sweet wrapped in pink girly feathers with a tiara. She is awesome and we love her.

Happy Birthday sweet Anne Marie!!

All at once.

2011-08-22T07:36:00.001-07:00

I had the opportunity over the past couple of weeks to see two old friends.

One from high school, and one of my old roommates from college.

It was super fun to catch up, to hear about their lives, to hug them and to feel so happy at seeing them.

Even though it had been twenty years since I'd seen Frances, and about 12 since I'd seen Chawntelle, their blogs have helped me feel caught up on their lives to some degree.

While talking with one friend, she lamented that the people that she knows now don't know her the way she was, ie; cute little dancer girl with lovely, curly red hair. Instead of the occasionally tired mom of 4 that she is now.

And my other friend, while she didn't say it, I think doesn't mind being thought of the way she was, but prefers who she is now.

This all got me thinking about how people see us. About everything that is behind who we are. We aren't simply just a mom or a dad, or an employee or boss. We aren't just our physical features.

There is so much more to all of God's creations than just what you get on a first glance.

When I see Chawtelle and Frances, I see them in my mind from the moment I first met them up until now. They are all those things-the dancer, the artist, the one with the fire-y spirit, the widow with wisdom and grace, the mum of 4 small children, the new girl in 4th grade, the girl who has no idea how beautiful she really is. They are all these things and more.

My in-laws have said that this is how they see their children. They don't just see them as the adults they are today, they see them from the time they were born all the way until who they are now. There almost isn't a beginning or an end, there is just love and happiness at who they were, and all that has lead to who they ARE. And as parents, we see it, all at once.

And I know this will be true, is true, of my own children as well. But sometimes I want to freeze frame their lives, so that I never forget the moments. The moments like this:

And this:

You didn't know we were so street at our house, did ya? Kate and Julia and Charlie weren't there for the pictures cuz they were at a break dancing competition. Ok, not really. But they weren't really interested in posing for me. So I get to show you these instead:

Life is short. Love who you are. Be who you are. Embrace all the experiences that have made you who you are.

The end.

Repost

2011-08-19T11:55:00.000-07:00

As I told a friend this last week, I haven't blogged in a while because I'm trying to spend time with my kids more and be on the computer less. That's working out, um, ok.

But I think maybe a bigger reason I haven't posted, if I'm being completely honest with myself, is that I just can't act like everything is great and low stress for me right now.

I have a hard time hiding my feelings, and posting about some cute little thing would feel like a lie when in fact I can't stop thinking about where the money for multiple car repairs and a new car payment is going to come from, or where the money for school clothes is going to come from, or the fact that we have 4 children's birthdays coming up and still haven't figured out the afore mentioned where is all the money coming from problem. Or there is why my back hurts all the time lately leaving me unable to do much of what I want and need to get done or why as hard as I try I can't seem to get on top of my messy house.

But it's no fun to read about me feeling sorry for myself. Even though you just did. My apologies. So instead I'm reposting something that made me laugh. Because, today, that is what I really need.

Sassy mouth

*Post Edit*: I am not actually worried about Nora saying butt. I don't like the word, I think it sounds kind of crass. But I don't think it's pepper in the mouth kind of language. I just found it super funny that her teasing Henry sounded more like hairy butt. Sorry if you thought I was worried about this. I'm totally not.*

I was supposed to show you pictures of other things I've been working on.

But instead I have chosen to share with you my 2 year old's new found ability to torment her brother.

Yesterday, for some unknown reason, Nora started saying "butt, butt, butt, butt".

Now, we don't use that word in our house. We really don't. Well, sometimes I do, but I'm working on it, ok?! And I try not to let anyone hear me when I say it.

Anyway, Nora continued with her recitation of this "naughty" word.

It bothered Henry to no end.

In fact he tattled on her.

"Mommmmm, Nora is saying butt."

Me. "Nora, we don't say butt."

Nora. "Butt, butt, butt, butt"

But then she took it to new heights once she figured out that it caused a reaction. She started getting Henry's attention first by saying his name, followed by saying butt. Trying super hard to irritate him.

However, she does not pronounce Henry correctly yet.(she leaves out the N)

So it came out sounding more like "hery! butt! hery! butt! hery! butt!"

I could not make this stuff up if I tried!

What do you do when it is a two year old saying this stuff?

I didn't want to bring more attention to by making a big deal out of it, and laughing certainly wasn't helping.

So I just walked away, and Hery seemed to realize that ignoring it was the best bet as well.

And then I took their picture, which will always make the center of attention baby of the family completely forget everything else.

Childhood 101

2011-08-02T08:22:00.000-07:00

Climbing trees is a necessary part of any childhood.

Of course, I prefer the trees that are barely above the size of the children climbing it, but they don't know I'm paranoid, now do they

They just know they're climbing a tree!

He's back, for a little while

2011-08-01T08:00:00.001-07:00

We have a visitor at our house for a few weeks.

He used to actually live here, until my hubby decided it wasn't going to work between the two of them.

So my sister and her family took him. Allowing us visitation, but with the stipulation that we watch him when they go on vacation.

Well, they are on vacation, and we have the awesome job of babysitting....Lucky!

Yes, I'm vacuuming him. He is the hairiest dog in existence I've decided. Nothing a little vacuum wand can't handle.

But he misses his family. How can I tell? Because he follows me everywhere! If I move into another room, so does Lucky.

Obviously the guy isn't sure what's going on, so he's keeping the "Alpha dog" of the house in eyesight at all times.

And I vacuumed him. So he may just be keeping an eye on me so that I don't try anything else!

The best part about having Lucky here though (because obviously the worst part is all the hair) is taking him on walks with me in the morning. I feel so much safer with a big dog with me. Not that he would actually protect me. The guy is a big softy. But still, no one else knows that, now do they? So other dogs and creepos beware! Lucky will lick you to death if you're not careful!

And sorry Maile, I was not able to cure him of the aforementioned licking. Seems that nasty little habit is here to stay.

Nerves

2011-07-29T10:00:00.000-07:00

Years ago, in high school, I was a small town actress. School plays, one community theatre play.

I don't think I was very good, but I enjoyed it.

After high school, I have not acted. I have been part of a few vocal groups and such and I have encouraged my children, and so far Kate and Julia have carried on my love of performing.

But as for myself, I left it all behind me so to speak.

Until now.

There are auditions, tonight, for a musical put on by a bunch of talented people in our area.

It's for Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. And guess what?

I'm auditioning. Along with Kate and Julia.

And guess what else? I've had a constant stomach ache from the nerves, all week.

I've almost emailed the gal a couple of times cancelling my audition.

But I decided that I can't let myself down. I've wanted to do this for a long time.

And you know what? If I'm no good, it's fine. I know I can sing. I have no idea if I can act at all anymore, but I will be mad at myself if I don't try.

So don't wish me luck, tell me to break a leg. Our auditions are tonight, and I'm preeeetty sure I won't be eating anything between now and then.

Ragnar 2011

2011-07-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

Ragnar this year was awesome!! And by all accounts, it really shouldn't have been.

For me personally the road leading up to it was super annoying. I thought I was running, then my knees were giving me problems. So I bowed out and a friend of ours was going to take my place.

Then she couldn't run because she was coughing up blood during her runs. Yikes!!

Then I discovered that if I ran with two huge knee braces (to keep my knee caps from sliding out of their groove), I could do it. But I had been out of training for 8 weeks so I was super nervous about the mileage I had to run-15.8 miles to be exact.

Then a week before Ragnar I hurt my back. I called our team captain to tell her what was going on and we discussed trying to find a replacement. Then I called her back to tell her I had prayed about it and felt that everything was going to be ok. This girl is an angel, let me just say, so have put up with my back and forthing with nothing but kindness. Love you Alexis!!

Anyhoo, so I had felt that everything was going to be ok, but I still hurt and I was still nervous. So then we decided, with some prayerful consideration on Kate's part, for me and Kate to switch running positions. That way I would have less running and she would have more, by about 4 miles.

So now she was way more nervous since she hadn't been training for that. But nobody else was worried given that she is 13 and her body could probably handle waaay more than she thought.

So the day of the race came. My dear friend Trisha had offered, yes offered, to watch the other kids for us. Saint that she is.

Everyone of my kids love her, but Nora was having some separation from Mommy issues.

It was so hard to drive away with her looking like that. She kept asking to come with me. And as much as my mother's heart wanted to say yes, I just couldn't imagine a 3 year old being in the van for practically 24 hours with no sleep. So I wisely said no:)

So with the new arrangement of Kate trading positions with me, Jeff would be handing off to Kate.

You can't tell from this picture, but trouble was already brewing for the Allen's.

At this point Kate then handed off to my brother Keno. I know right? How awesome is it to run with my husband, my daughter AND my brother? The wonderfulness of it was never lost on my, I'll have you know.

So I must tell you. When Jeff first handed off to Kate and she took off, I was totally fine. Then when we drove past her the first time to find a place to stop and hand her water and cheer her on, I totally got that "I can't believe my daughter is so big and grown up and running Ragnar with me" choked up moment. I promised the rest of our van I wouldn't cry about it again. I didn't mean to lie, really.

So here is how it works. After all six runners in your van run, then you pass off to the other half of your team. Then they run for 4 or 5 hours while we headed off to the hotel to shower, get fresh clothes, and try and take an hour nap.

And then when we run our next leg (we run 3 legs total) they are resting and all that. And when I say resting, I really mean trying to grab any sleep that you can. I think you get a total of maybe 2 or 3 hours if you're lucky. And that's not at one time, mind you. As our team captain Alexis put it, Ragnar is really for the outer fringe of runners. Most people are not crazy enough to do this.

So after we had rested up, we headed out to run our second leg. And this is when the Allen families trouble began. Jeff and Kate had woken up at the hotel both feeling ill. Kate had a massive headache and was feeling nauseous, and Jeff was sick to his stomach as well. It was hard to get out of the hotel in time and we were 5 minutes late to the hand off from van 1. Not awesome.

About 15 minutes into Jeff's run, we stopped the van to wait for him with water and Kate goes rushing out the side door so that she can rid her body of everything she had eaten. She gets back in looking a little better, but still feeling awful.

So here I sit, her mother, knowing that she is supposed to run in about an hour. There is no way. I also know that her next leg is 7.8 miles, which I haven't trained for. And I also know that Ragnar has rules about runners switching legs mid way. IT's a no no. It can disqualify your team. If someone gets injured and stops running, the rest of the team has to finish their legs for them and they can't run again.

But I know that Kate is in no position to run. So I made the call, and her and I switched back. (Upon further review of the rules, it only mentions injury, not stomach flu)

So when we see Jeff running up, I tell him that he will be passing off to me, not Kate, because she threw up. And he says, "So did I. Around mile two. I feel much better now." But he still had about 4 miles to go at this point. What a trooper.

So I start getting ready to run. I'm already taking 5 ibuprofen and 1 vicodin to keep the back pain at bay. But I hook up my little portable stim machine (It send little electrical shocks into your muscles) just to loosen me up a bit more.

Kate is still looking pale and sick, so I know there is no going back. So Jeff hands off to me and I go. Terrified at this long distance I have to run.

And let me tell you, it was not a problem. It couldn't have hurt that I had a constant prayer in my heart as I ran. But I hardly felt the miles. I walked about half a mile of it, walking rests, but other than that I ran the whole thing. Jeff told me later that he was so surprised to see that every time they waited for me, I would come around the corner still running. It honestly was a miracle folks. My back didn't hurt, and I was able to finish it, despite the growing nausea in my own stomach. I ran a little slower than my normal pace, but I did it. It was the middle of the night, hence the glow in the dark accessories.

By the time Keno ran, and it was now Kate's turn again, she was feeling much better and was able to run the next leg, 4.2 miles. And then in the middle of her run, while we waited with water in front of someone's house, I puked. Hard core. So sorry to the poor fellow who owned that house!

By this time, I'm sure that Keno and our other two van mates were quite ready to not be near us. And no it wasn't anything that we ate or just from running. Jeff and I have never puked from running before. But remember Henry falling asleep in the bowl last week, and then throwing up later? Yeah, we had whatever that was.

So after losing my dinner, I felt a little better. But I didn't really feel that great for an hour or two. The rest back at the hotel helped. But I'm not sure any of us felt that great. Jeff threw up again after his final run, but I just felt nauseous on my final run. It was crazy. We later had several Ragnar runners tell us that would have been a deal breaker for them. And it might have been if we were laid out completely, or couldn't stop throwing up. But fortune smiled upon us and it was a mostly one time thing.

Our team was 12 south. That represent 12 runners, our team, running south. Cuz you run from blaine, wa, south down to Whidbey Island.

Here we are at the end in our team shirts, waiting for our last runner.

And here is our awesome team!! By the way, our team captains, Derek and Alexis, were amazing. Super organized, on top of everything. There were a few airheaded moments on my part that I couldn't have made it through without Alexis.

Pay attention to the right of the picture. Yeah, there were a few people like that. Speedo guy and one guy dressed as an indian chief were the, um, "highlights". The indian chief, which I would never have taken a picture of, had a headdress and a loin cloth. And that's it! I don't know how he ran like that, and I'm glad I didn't witness it. Yech.

This team was awesome. They were the Lord of the Ragnar. I don't know how they ran in that gear. But they did it. Someone said they were a Mormon crew. I'd like to think so since they were so awesome.

Van two. We rocked it!

So, again, this was was sooo awesome. Puking and all. It just felt like a blip on the radar screen of what was a stupendous two day running event.

The highlights:

Running with my family. I cannot describe how great it was to spend two days with my brother and Jeff and Kate.

Watching Kate do something so hard. In her words, the hardest thing she's ever done. True that Kate.

Actually running 15.8 miles. So proud of myself, you don't even know.

Laughing with the other two gals in our van, Laura and Rachel. We ran with Laura last year, and I know Rachel from our little mommy co-op preschool we did. They're both awesome. Truly.

Having cooler weather. Being in van 2 you run in the heat of the day, so having it not go above 70 degrees was actually super awesome.

Throwing up on the side of the road. I know this should be a negative, which it is, but it also felt so good. I know, I'm weird.

Lowlights:

Speedo guy. Not only did we see him at the finish, but his twin passed me on my middle of the night run. So I had a Speedo bum view for a few moments. Yikes.

The guy who totally gassed as he passed me. Like not discreet little toots that you can try and pass off as squeaky shoes. I'm talking full on, no shame, cutting the cheese. It would have been comical if I wasn't already feeling kind of sick.

Getting killed by about 100 people. You get a kill by passing someone. You get killed by being passed. I passed no one. And got passed about 100 times, no joke. I'm probably the slowest person to ever run Ragnar. But next year, I vow not to be.

And finally, having the stomach flu. It wasn't fun. But, it also made us proud that we ran anyway. I know, we're weird.

So there you have it. Ragnar 2011. It was such a great experience. And Kate still wants to do it again. And Julia wants to do it next year too. You have to be 12. Keno wants his boys to run it too. So maybe we'll have a family team next year, who knows.

Also, my cousin Mandy and her husband ran it too! I saw their van at one exchange, but couldn't find them. She wrote about her experience here.

I can't wait for next year. Why? Because obviously I love running with no sleep, weird food, and stomach issues. I told you, I'm weird!

Nora is three

2011-07-25T11:26:00.000-07:00

The thought of six children always scared me. I felt competent enough with five, sometimes barely getting it all done, but still accomplishing what I needed to.

I felt that six would just put me over, and I was terrified of that prospect.

So when I found out that I was pregnant I actually only had one thought:gratitude.

You see, at that moment, when the two little lines showed up, I felt that Heavenly Father trusted me. I knew that He thought I could do it. And that sustained me at that moment and ever since.

Plus, Nora has been a gift to our family. We all adore her. She was an easy baby, is an easy toddler (for the most part) and we cannot imagine our home without her.

Is my house messier? Yes. Is my life more hectic? Yes. Is it worth it? Yes.

The amazing thing is that 3 years have passed since she was born. And my mind just can't wrap around that. How is it possible that so many events in life drag by at such a slow pace, and yet the life of this beloved child (as are all my children) just speeds by at such a fast rate?

I feel so much joy that this little goose (my knickname for her) is here, is ours, and that Heavenly Father knew me better than I did myself.

My friend Heidi made the cake for me. We were gone for Ragnar the two days before her birthday, so I'm forever grateful for her delivering such a beautiful and YUMMY confection.

Nora loves everything Tangled. 'punzel is her favorite, so of course cake and presents had to represent miss goose's love.

It seems everyone we know was either out of town or unavailable, so my brother Keno was our one and only guest.

But the kids made him feel at home I think.

She was so big, and sat waiting for that perfect moment to blow out her candles.

We love that little girl, so much. Happy Birthday Nora baby!!!

A tale of two sickies

2011-07-20T08:56:00.000-07:00

As you know from last week, my car broke down. The day that I got it back from the shop, Jeff's car died. Like, engine seized, gave up the ghost, died.

So we began our search for a new-er car for Jeff. In 15 years of marriage Jeff has driven less than dream-able cars. He drove an 88 maroon cadillac for a long time. And then a 94 escort wagon. And then an 89 (I think) white cadillac, and then finally the 94 Saturn.

So when we went to the car lot and the salesman showed him the blue car, he honestly shut the idea out because he has never had anything really nice that was his own.

But I told him, this is not a brand new car. It's not a huge amount of money, get the darn thing already.

So he got it!

And he loves it. On Monday, he was out of town for work so I took the blueberry(my brother's family nicknamed it and now my kids call it that) to a doctor's appt. for one of my children. I promised this child I wouldn't name names. You'll understand why in a sec.

Well, they had to take blood from the child to test for allergies. This kid was a trooper, not even flinching when the needle went in. No crying, nothing.

Everything was fine until we were driving home. This child kept saying things like,"Did they take a lot of blood mom? I didn't know my blood was so dark. Boy, I think they took a lot of blood."

Pretty soon I hear "I don't feel very good." I look back and my child is white. I say, "Are you going to throw up?"

So I rolled down a window, advised the kid to breathe through the nose, to please, PLEASE hold on until I could find a safe place to pull over.

No such luck. Poor kid let it fly. All over clothing, seat and floor. Luckily breakfast had just been a piece of toast. But still. And me, in a not so good mothering moment, said, "NO!!! Not in dad's new car!"

Poor child kept saying over and over, "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm soooo sorry mom." It was pathetic really.

I told the child that it was ok, and when I could finally pull over we stopped at a gas station and bought baby wipes to semi clean everything up. It really wasn't that bad, but I dreaded telling Jeff that his car had been christened in such a nasty way. AND on the second day of ownership.

The next sick story occurred last night. Henry kept saying he didn't feel good and wanted a bowl. So I'm got him a bowl and took him up to bed. When I left him he was on his stomach with his legs and stomach on the bed, and he was supporting himself with his arms, head over the bowl on the floor. Whatever makes you feel better.

When I went to check on him after I put Nora to bed, this is what I found.

Poor little man fell asleep face down in a bowl! He hadn't thrown up yet, thankfully, just drooled in the bottom of the bowl.

When I picked him up to put him in his bed, his mouth looked like it was stuck in open position. I had to force it closed. Sad, sad, sad.

He did end up throwing up later and wouldn't go back to sleep. It was awesome.

So there you have it, my tale of two sickies. I'll tell ya, there is really never a dull moment around here. Ever.