This morning is the neighborhood yard sale. They have one every Fall and Spring. It has started to become a tradition in our family to do our family yard sale walk.
Matthew woke up and came down the stairs and said, "It's yard sale day! I need to go to the yard sales."
Sam said as we were walking along, "Happy yard sale day Mom!"
The boys always end up with a few more toys. We added to Spencer's spiderman action figure collection. It is getting quite impressive. Until We realized one of them we bought was a Burger King toy. I felt conned even for that quarter.
After we got home I heard Sam yell at Matthew to go away because he didn't want to play with him. Matthew immediately yelled back, "Ow! That hurt my feelings!"
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Labor Day
Here is our annual Christmas card reject. Although I do love this picture of all my boys. We had a great holiday hiking, swimming, and ice skating in McCall, Idaho.
Friday, September 10, 2010
My Man
Thursday, September 9, 2010
The Skinny
Yep, I did it. I took a giant fashion leap forward, or backward depending on how you look at it. I bought some skinny jeans. Actually leggings. If you must know, the pants I bought came with a vocab tag attached. When I shop I like to get smarter and cuter at the same time. 
Jegging: a jean-legging hybrid with the look of denim but the fit and comfort of a legging.
Now, don't go judging my jegging. I wore them on my date Saturday night and I felt like a million bucks. Mainly because I really needed some new clothes, and because I felt like I had just jumped into the now. Or maybe I jumped into yesterday because the skinny has been in for so long and I just got on board. Anyway, I wear hybrid pants. With a very long shirt, or a dress depending on how you look at it.
When I bought my fancy pants the lady at the store asked if I was going to wear them with heels or boots. I was holding a baby in one arm and had another attached to my leg. How about flats or running shoes? Would that work? Maybe next year I can make that leap.
Jegging: a jean-legging hybrid with the look of denim but the fit and comfort of a legging.Now, don't go judging my jegging. I wore them on my date Saturday night and I felt like a million bucks. Mainly because I really needed some new clothes, and because I felt like I had just jumped into the now. Or maybe I jumped into yesterday because the skinny has been in for so long and I just got on board. Anyway, I wear hybrid pants. With a very long shirt, or a dress depending on how you look at it.
When I bought my fancy pants the lady at the store asked if I was going to wear them with heels or boots. I was holding a baby in one arm and had another attached to my leg. How about flats or running shoes? Would that work? Maybe next year I can make that leap.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Thursday Morning Mystery
This morning I went on an early morning run to the Maverick for some milk. Have you had Maverick gas station milk? It is really creamy and good and cheap! Anyway, Matthew and I needed milk for our morning hot chocolate and we were out. Jeremy had already taken Spencer and Sam to their bus on his way to work. We headed out for our breakfast of champions.
We got back into the house, and I unloaded the milk. Matthew and Nathan were playing in the family room. All of a sudden I heard crying. I looked over and both of the boys were happy, it wasn't them. The crying was really loud. I figured it was coming from outside my windows. I started to walk around the house, and it became obvious that the crying was coming from upstairs. I walked back in and looked at the boys again, because it had to be one of them if their was a child crying in my house. Nope, they were both fine. My mind was spinning. The child sounded in distress. Did one of the boys get left behind from school? No, it sounded more like a baby.
Slowly I started to walk up the stairs. I was nervous, what would I find? Was it a toy gone crazy? As I got upstairs I realized the sound was coming from the master bedroom. It was obvious there really was a child crying in my house. Who could it be? I was really nervous! I walked into the bedroom, and then headed to the master bath where the cry was coming from. I paused because I was so nervous. Was this a trick?
I turned the corner into the master bathroom and there was a baby boy lying there in his pajamas crying on the floor. I had never seen this boy before. I didn't know what to do. He looked to be about 18 months to 2 years old. I figured I better pick him up since he was obviously distressed. When I picked him up he stopped crying. He seemed to be in a deep sleep.
Right as I picked him up I remembered something. When I came home I had seen a lady on a cell phone a couple houses down looking worried. I had taken note because it was odd so early in the morning. This had to be his Mom. I went downstairs and out the front door. The lady was gone now. I wandered down the street a bit. I started to head back to my house. The boy was heavy and poopy. What to do next? And then I heard the Mom talking on her cell phone in a panic. I called out to her down the street. She came running. The pure relief of a Mother. She told the police he had been found.
We tried to piece together how this happened, but I think it will always remain a mystery. She woke up and he was gone. I came home and he was in my master bath. My garage was closed. The front door was closed. He must have closed the door behind him? The whole thing is just too weird. And crazy. Totally and absolutely crazy.
I am glad he found his way to my house. I am glad he was safe. There are two large ponds in our neighborhood one block away. He has epilepsy and was probably sleep walking. He was so little and his Mom was visiting her parents in our neighborhood. I'm glad he found refuge in my bathroom so I could take him back to his Mom.
We got back into the house, and I unloaded the milk. Matthew and Nathan were playing in the family room. All of a sudden I heard crying. I looked over and both of the boys were happy, it wasn't them. The crying was really loud. I figured it was coming from outside my windows. I started to walk around the house, and it became obvious that the crying was coming from upstairs. I walked back in and looked at the boys again, because it had to be one of them if their was a child crying in my house. Nope, they were both fine. My mind was spinning. The child sounded in distress. Did one of the boys get left behind from school? No, it sounded more like a baby.
Slowly I started to walk up the stairs. I was nervous, what would I find? Was it a toy gone crazy? As I got upstairs I realized the sound was coming from the master bedroom. It was obvious there really was a child crying in my house. Who could it be? I was really nervous! I walked into the bedroom, and then headed to the master bath where the cry was coming from. I paused because I was so nervous. Was this a trick?
I turned the corner into the master bathroom and there was a baby boy lying there in his pajamas crying on the floor. I had never seen this boy before. I didn't know what to do. He looked to be about 18 months to 2 years old. I figured I better pick him up since he was obviously distressed. When I picked him up he stopped crying. He seemed to be in a deep sleep.
Right as I picked him up I remembered something. When I came home I had seen a lady on a cell phone a couple houses down looking worried. I had taken note because it was odd so early in the morning. This had to be his Mom. I went downstairs and out the front door. The lady was gone now. I wandered down the street a bit. I started to head back to my house. The boy was heavy and poopy. What to do next? And then I heard the Mom talking on her cell phone in a panic. I called out to her down the street. She came running. The pure relief of a Mother. She told the police he had been found.
We tried to piece together how this happened, but I think it will always remain a mystery. She woke up and he was gone. I came home and he was in my master bath. My garage was closed. The front door was closed. He must have closed the door behind him? The whole thing is just too weird. And crazy. Totally and absolutely crazy.
I am glad he found his way to my house. I am glad he was safe. There are two large ponds in our neighborhood one block away. He has epilepsy and was probably sleep walking. He was so little and his Mom was visiting her parents in our neighborhood. I'm glad he found refuge in my bathroom so I could take him back to his Mom.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
His Turn
Matthew headed out for another year of preschool. 
He showed me some of his dance moves.
Can you see the "cheese"?
He showed me some of his dance moves.
Can you see the "cheese"?
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Oprah
I love her. I hate her. She is brilliant. She is literally the Devil. We have a very tormented, complicated relationship. I tried not to watch her this past season. I am feeling a little torn with this "last" season coming up. She said on her website she is trying to create moments for this last season. Moments, people. Is that worth my time? No, I hate her! But....
I do have to say that she did give me the gift of my favorite all time TV moment ever. Do you remember when she gave all those cars away to every member in the studio audience? And they were all teachers? I'm sorry, but that was awesome.
We were living in Utah at the time, and the season premiere of Oprah was on a Monday. That had been advertising for weeks, maybe months about a big surprise. I was mildly intrigued. When I was at church on the Sunday before a lady from my church told me her daughter was going to be on the show, who was a teacher. The show was about teachers. So, she had ruined the "big" surprise, but I decided to watch anyway since I practically knew one of the people on the show! Do you remember the moment? First, she gave away cars to about 10 people on the stage who were all teachers and had sad, sad car situations, if any at all. It was great, they all get cars. Then she said that one lucky audience member would get a new car too. Check under your chair for a box and the one with the key wins! They start opening. Their is screaming and confusion. And then, Oprah is screaming and jumping. I am crying and smiling so big. They all get a car. EVERY BODY GETS A CAR!!!! I'm laughing and crying at the same time. This is so fun!! Then she walks the entire audience out to the parking lot and there they are. All the cars. It was great. I love her. Maybe. not.
I do have to say that she did give me the gift of my favorite all time TV moment ever. Do you remember when she gave all those cars away to every member in the studio audience? And they were all teachers? I'm sorry, but that was awesome.
We were living in Utah at the time, and the season premiere of Oprah was on a Monday. That had been advertising for weeks, maybe months about a big surprise. I was mildly intrigued. When I was at church on the Sunday before a lady from my church told me her daughter was going to be on the show, who was a teacher. The show was about teachers. So, she had ruined the "big" surprise, but I decided to watch anyway since I practically knew one of the people on the show! Do you remember the moment? First, she gave away cars to about 10 people on the stage who were all teachers and had sad, sad car situations, if any at all. It was great, they all get cars. Then she said that one lucky audience member would get a new car too. Check under your chair for a box and the one with the key wins! They start opening. Their is screaming and confusion. And then, Oprah is screaming and jumping. I am crying and smiling so big. They all get a car. EVERY BODY GETS A CAR!!!! I'm laughing and crying at the same time. This is so fun!! Then she walks the entire audience out to the parking lot and there they are. All the cars. It was great. I love her. Maybe. not.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Two Down
Fourth and First grade this year. They are only two years apart, and they wear the same size clothes.
Matthew waiting for the bus to arrive in the afternoon. It was 20 minutes late, I was getting a little nervous. Apparently the Kindergarten teacher had to have a long discussion with their bus driver. At least that means it wasn't about one of mine. Phew!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Gifts from my hubby this year
A Garden
A Book
and A Baby
Jeremy has always been a very thoughtful gift giver, but this year might take the cake!
A Book
and A Baby
Jeremy has always been a very thoughtful gift giver, but this year might take the cake!Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Who is Harry Potter?
In May Jeremy told Spencer that if he reads the first Harry Potter book he would buy him the lego Harry Potter video game. Although he was drooling over the video game every time we went to the store, Spencer refused to open the book. We just let it go, and then this weekend he picked up the book and read the whole thing in two days.
With Spencer's autism he has a hard time with reading comprehension. He is an excellent reader and his spelling abilities are off the charts. But chapter books are just words strung together for him because he has a hard time visualizing them without pictures. We are trying to help him with this. We have been trying different ideas, and he usually needs strong motivation.
After he finished the book, I asked him about Hogwarts. Spencer immediately looked at me funny and said, "Hogwarts? What's that?" Hmmmm. Then I asked him what he thought about all of the magic in the book. "Magic. What magic?" Oh boy. So he basically missed the whole book. Jeremy and I have asked him on separate occasions what the book was about. His description seemed a little too rehearsed. Then we realized he had memorized the summary from the back of the book. Brilliant. Do you think that ingenuity deserves a video game???
With Spencer's autism he has a hard time with reading comprehension. He is an excellent reader and his spelling abilities are off the charts. But chapter books are just words strung together for him because he has a hard time visualizing them without pictures. We are trying to help him with this. We have been trying different ideas, and he usually needs strong motivation.
After he finished the book, I asked him about Hogwarts. Spencer immediately looked at me funny and said, "Hogwarts? What's that?" Hmmmm. Then I asked him what he thought about all of the magic in the book. "Magic. What magic?" Oh boy. So he basically missed the whole book. Jeremy and I have asked him on separate occasions what the book was about. His description seemed a little too rehearsed. Then we realized he had memorized the summary from the back of the book. Brilliant. Do you think that ingenuity deserves a video game???
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
and Sisters
Jeremy has four sisters too. We hit the sister jackpot when we found each other! 
Rachel is the oldest sister. We have been on a journey together, and I think it is going really good places. There are so many things I admire about Rachel. She seems to have found the perfect balance between being a mom and friend to her kids. She is an amazing party planner including finding the best treats for any occasion. Rachel is artistic and thoughtful. She is super smart and funny.
Anne is next and so kind and good. Her voice is soft and reassuring. Anne will always be on your side, whatever side that is. It is so lovely and refreshing. I love her hair. Anne is stylish and athletic. She is a brilliant decorator and quilter. Anne is good at all things artsy and crafty. She has an amazing eye for color and organization. Anne is caring and easy going.
Kjerstin is the academic extraordinaire. She is so gifted in so many areas it is hard to describe. She loves to experience life and all its little splendors. Kjerstin is independent and has the best smile. Her cooking skills are amazing and artsy. She has an adventurous spirit that she actually follows which is extremely inspiring. Kjerstin has gone out of her way to be my friend in her hectic life.
Melissa is the youngest sister. She is a gifted artist. Melissa is very compassionate to people and animals. She has such a kind heart and will always be there to listen. Melissa is really fun and open to trying new things. She is super cute and has great taste. She has always been very sensitive to my needs and looks out for me. I know she does the same for all her friends and family.
Rachel is the oldest sister. We have been on a journey together, and I think it is going really good places. There are so many things I admire about Rachel. She seems to have found the perfect balance between being a mom and friend to her kids. She is an amazing party planner including finding the best treats for any occasion. Rachel is artistic and thoughtful. She is super smart and funny.Anne is next and so kind and good. Her voice is soft and reassuring. Anne will always be on your side, whatever side that is. It is so lovely and refreshing. I love her hair. Anne is stylish and athletic. She is a brilliant decorator and quilter. Anne is good at all things artsy and crafty. She has an amazing eye for color and organization. Anne is caring and easy going.
Kjerstin is the academic extraordinaire. She is so gifted in so many areas it is hard to describe. She loves to experience life and all its little splendors. Kjerstin is independent and has the best smile. Her cooking skills are amazing and artsy. She has an adventurous spirit that she actually follows which is extremely inspiring. Kjerstin has gone out of her way to be my friend in her hectic life.
Melissa is the youngest sister. She is a gifted artist. Melissa is very compassionate to people and animals. She has such a kind heart and will always be there to listen. Melissa is really fun and open to trying new things. She is super cute and has great taste. She has always been very sensitive to my needs and looks out for me. I know she does the same for all her friends and family.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Sisters
I feel so lucky to have so many wonderful sisters in my life. Since they are really the most loyal and consistent readers of my blog I thought I would give them a shout out.
This is Katie. She is the oldest sister. Exactly two years older than me because we share the same birthday! Katie has always been there for me. Katie has the biggest heart and wants to help everyone around her. She is hands down the most creative and fun mom you will ever meet. And I know a lot of moms. And she beats them all. Seriously. Katie is a fixer and loving and doesn't care if she looks silly. She just loves life.
Stacey is the sister just younger than me. The creative and artistic genes skipped right over me and landed on her. She is a total babe and is really good at doing creative things with her hair. Stacey is a strong independent woman who can accomplish goals like nobody's business. She has a killer sense of humor and is really good at organizing parties and games, definitely the one you want to hang out with at the party. She is also very good with Spencer, which has been a gift.
Karen is the fourth girl in the family. My mom used to call her the sunshine girl. Because that is what she is. She brings happiness and light into every room she enters. She is tons of fun and really fashionable. Karen is really good at making friends. She is good at remembering birthdays and sending cute cards she has made. Karen is generous and giving and wants to make sure people around her are happy.
Sally is the youngest girl in the bunch. We are almost exactly 10 years apart. I cannot imagine our family without Sally because she is the cutest and most kind person. She loves all of her nieces and nephews, and they love her. She is really good with children, and will be the best elementary teacher this year! Sally is easy going and always willing to lend a hand with my crazy life.
This is Katie. She is the oldest sister. Exactly two years older than me because we share the same birthday! Katie has always been there for me. Katie has the biggest heart and wants to help everyone around her. She is hands down the most creative and fun mom you will ever meet. And I know a lot of moms. And she beats them all. Seriously. Katie is a fixer and loving and doesn't care if she looks silly. She just loves life. 
Stacey is the sister just younger than me. The creative and artistic genes skipped right over me and landed on her. She is a total babe and is really good at doing creative things with her hair. Stacey is a strong independent woman who can accomplish goals like nobody's business. She has a killer sense of humor and is really good at organizing parties and games, definitely the one you want to hang out with at the party. She is also very good with Spencer, which has been a gift.
Karen is the fourth girl in the family. My mom used to call her the sunshine girl. Because that is what she is. She brings happiness and light into every room she enters. She is tons of fun and really fashionable. Karen is really good at making friends. She is good at remembering birthdays and sending cute cards she has made. Karen is generous and giving and wants to make sure people around her are happy.
Sally is the youngest girl in the bunch. We are almost exactly 10 years apart. I cannot imagine our family without Sally because she is the cutest and most kind person. She loves all of her nieces and nephews, and they love her. She is really good with children, and will be the best elementary teacher this year! Sally is easy going and always willing to lend a hand with my crazy life.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Nathan in the Summer
Nathan celebrated his first fourth of July. He is 6 months old, and I can't believe it!! We just got back from our second trip to Utah in two weeks. The week before that we went to Oregon. We jam packed all our summer travel in three weeks and now we are ready to kick it by the pool and have lazy summer days. Hope you are enjoying yours!
Monday, June 28, 2010
Summer Truth
There was an old woman who lived in a shoe.
She had so many children she did not know what to do.
Lets face it. We are living fake lives during the school year. We go to the grocery store with one, maybe two kids. We might even go to a doctor appointment and sit in the waiting room leisurely reading magazines like that is our real life. Sitting around reading magazines. And then summer hits. Reality check. I am dragging four kids everywhere with me. And people are stopping me, are those all yours? Doctors are surprised to realize I have this many kids. Where did they come from? Have you always had this many kids? There are people in my life that have no idea how many kids I have. And they are shocked. Because I guess I had them fooled. But summer comes and there ain't no more foolin'. This is me. This is my real life. Kids everywhere. Toys everywhere. Doors always left open. Shoes everywhere. Snacks. More snacks. Sticky floors. Bikes on the front lawn. Did I mention they need snacks? Mismatched clothes. Garage doors left open all night. Broken screen doors. Bugs. Oh, and you can push a cart with four children on it. But, you block traffic and you get stinky looks. So then you make them follow you in a line. And then you really get looks. Me, pushing my baby boy with three boys following me in a line. But then I look back and the three boys are on the floor wrestling. This is my summer life.
She had so many children she did not know what to do.
Lets face it. We are living fake lives during the school year. We go to the grocery store with one, maybe two kids. We might even go to a doctor appointment and sit in the waiting room leisurely reading magazines like that is our real life. Sitting around reading magazines. And then summer hits. Reality check. I am dragging four kids everywhere with me. And people are stopping me, are those all yours? Doctors are surprised to realize I have this many kids. Where did they come from? Have you always had this many kids? There are people in my life that have no idea how many kids I have. And they are shocked. Because I guess I had them fooled. But summer comes and there ain't no more foolin'. This is me. This is my real life. Kids everywhere. Toys everywhere. Doors always left open. Shoes everywhere. Snacks. More snacks. Sticky floors. Bikes on the front lawn. Did I mention they need snacks? Mismatched clothes. Garage doors left open all night. Broken screen doors. Bugs. Oh, and you can push a cart with four children on it. But, you block traffic and you get stinky looks. So then you make them follow you in a line. And then you really get looks. Me, pushing my baby boy with three boys following me in a line. But then I look back and the three boys are on the floor wrestling. This is my summer life.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Monday, June 7, 2010
I'll Walk with You
If you don't walk as most people do, Some people walk away from you, But I won't! I won't!
If you don't talk as most people do, Some people talk and laugh at you, But I won't! I won't!
I'll walk with you. I'll talk with you. That's how I'll show my love for you.
Jesus walked away from none. He gave his love to everyone. So I will! I will!
I was going through our children's songbook from church when I came across this song. I guess it can sound kind of silly, but this song has new meaning to me now. I love the exclamations in the song. My life has a lot of exclamation points in it so I am a fan.
My boys finished their last day of school on Friday. It was a sad day because Spencer has had the most spectacular year in third grade. His teachers were so fantastic and really helped him grow in ways we couldn't have imagined at the beginning of the year.
One of the best moments came for me last week. Spencer has talked about a girl in his class all year that he says is his best friend. I was never quite sure what that meant, but I was glad he had someone to call a friend. When I was at school for the Author's Tea on Tuesday I met his friend's Mom. She seemed to be as anxious to meet me as I her. She was so excited to meet the Mom of her daughter's good friend. She expressed how much her daughter loved Spencer and hoped they would be together in class next year. She told me how much she enjoyed watching him read his story and thought about what an amazing man he is going to become. I kind of stood in awe. I wasn't sure how much she knew about Spencer, but it was obvious she had spent time in the classroom getting to know him at some point. Nice things were said about how well behaved he is and how smart he is. And then it became very clear that she and her daughter had no idea why Spencer needed an aid in the classroom. She asked if it was because of his eye. I didn't know what to say. She didn't seem to know about his autism. I was debating what to say and then Spencer came up and she looked right at him and told him how grateful she was for his friendship with her daughter. That he had been the best friend to her this year and they were so glad he was in her class. Spencer beamed so big and I just looked at her with all the gratitude in my heart. And I realized that she knew enough, and she just gets it.
We have been wanting Spencer to feel more comfortable riding his bike. He has not had enough practice to feel comfortable yet, and it has been a bit of a battle for him even to try it. We decided to give it one last push this summer and hope it will catch on. Today a little miracle happened. He just went outside on his own and started riding. And then the neighbor kids from across the street came out and started riding with him. And then his brother joined him. And there they were the four kids riding around together. And my little angel neighbors who just knew that Spencer needed some buddies to ride with right at that moment. And probably no words were exchanged, but they just rode out there with him. Spencer came in and was so excited to tell us how he rode with his friends and brother.
Spencer's book that he wrote and illustrated was about friendship. About two dinosaurs Rexy and Cooper that decide to go on a picnic. And a dinosaur they didn't know shows up and they decide to share their picnic with him. Then they all go swimming together. That was what his story was about. Reaching out to another friend. It was beautiful and very telling.
Spencer was spotlighted the last week of school along with a couple of other kids. One of the questions on the sheet was, what do you want to do someday. Spencer immediately answered, go over to a friends house to play. That is what he wants to do some day. Perfect.
If you don't talk as most people do, Some people talk and laugh at you, But I won't! I won't!
I'll walk with you. I'll talk with you. That's how I'll show my love for you.
Jesus walked away from none. He gave his love to everyone. So I will! I will!
I was going through our children's songbook from church when I came across this song. I guess it can sound kind of silly, but this song has new meaning to me now. I love the exclamations in the song. My life has a lot of exclamation points in it so I am a fan.
My boys finished their last day of school on Friday. It was a sad day because Spencer has had the most spectacular year in third grade. His teachers were so fantastic and really helped him grow in ways we couldn't have imagined at the beginning of the year.
One of the best moments came for me last week. Spencer has talked about a girl in his class all year that he says is his best friend. I was never quite sure what that meant, but I was glad he had someone to call a friend. When I was at school for the Author's Tea on Tuesday I met his friend's Mom. She seemed to be as anxious to meet me as I her. She was so excited to meet the Mom of her daughter's good friend. She expressed how much her daughter loved Spencer and hoped they would be together in class next year. She told me how much she enjoyed watching him read his story and thought about what an amazing man he is going to become. I kind of stood in awe. I wasn't sure how much she knew about Spencer, but it was obvious she had spent time in the classroom getting to know him at some point. Nice things were said about how well behaved he is and how smart he is. And then it became very clear that she and her daughter had no idea why Spencer needed an aid in the classroom. She asked if it was because of his eye. I didn't know what to say. She didn't seem to know about his autism. I was debating what to say and then Spencer came up and she looked right at him and told him how grateful she was for his friendship with her daughter. That he had been the best friend to her this year and they were so glad he was in her class. Spencer beamed so big and I just looked at her with all the gratitude in my heart. And I realized that she knew enough, and she just gets it.
We have been wanting Spencer to feel more comfortable riding his bike. He has not had enough practice to feel comfortable yet, and it has been a bit of a battle for him even to try it. We decided to give it one last push this summer and hope it will catch on. Today a little miracle happened. He just went outside on his own and started riding. And then the neighbor kids from across the street came out and started riding with him. And then his brother joined him. And there they were the four kids riding around together. And my little angel neighbors who just knew that Spencer needed some buddies to ride with right at that moment. And probably no words were exchanged, but they just rode out there with him. Spencer came in and was so excited to tell us how he rode with his friends and brother.
Spencer's book that he wrote and illustrated was about friendship. About two dinosaurs Rexy and Cooper that decide to go on a picnic. And a dinosaur they didn't know shows up and they decide to share their picnic with him. Then they all go swimming together. That was what his story was about. Reaching out to another friend. It was beautiful and very telling.
Spencer was spotlighted the last week of school along with a couple of other kids. One of the questions on the sheet was, what do you want to do someday. Spencer immediately answered, go over to a friends house to play. That is what he wants to do some day. Perfect.
Friday, May 28, 2010
The greatest love
Nathan is soooo in love with me. It's like he is obsessed with me. He just has to be around me and constantly needs my attention. When I walk into the room he just feels better. I mean, he just can't take his eyes off me. And I have to say the feeling is mutual. We are having a serious love affair. Can you see why?
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Motherhood is...
Giving into the moment.A truckload of patience.
Turning off lights all day long.
Laundry.
Pausing after you back out of your driveway to remember who you are taking where.
Saying things you never thought you would say.
Laughing.
The smile you get from your kids when you walk into a room that was meant only for Mom. That smile that makes your heart melt and his face almost burst. That smile is and always will be only for you. That smile is motherhood to me.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
And so it goes
We hired a lawn guy. Good decision. Last year when I found out I was pregnant Jeremy hired cleaning ladies for me. He just called me from work one day and told me what time they would be showing up. It was true love let me tell ya. So I decided to cancel the cleaning ladies in hopes that I can get my act together now and I hired Jeremy a lawn guy. Happiness, except I might have cried a little when I had to scrub the bathrooms myself this week. I know you feel really sorry for me.
So the lawn guy told me our grass is stressed. Really stressed. And that just sounds about right, doesn't it? I mean who isn't stressed around here? I guess everything and everybody feels the stress when a new baby arrives.
On another note, I've been thinking about how money can't buy happiness. I mean, everybody knows money can't buy happiness. But money can buy food (and cleaning ladies and lawn guys). And food is happiness. What? Is that Bob and Jillian knocking at my door? Before I get busted try these. Alexia Waffle Fries. So good, and usually in the organic section of your grocery store.
So the lawn guy told me our grass is stressed. Really stressed. And that just sounds about right, doesn't it? I mean who isn't stressed around here? I guess everything and everybody feels the stress when a new baby arrives.
On another note, I've been thinking about how money can't buy happiness. I mean, everybody knows money can't buy happiness. But money can buy food (and cleaning ladies and lawn guys). And food is happiness. What? Is that Bob and Jillian knocking at my door? Before I get busted try these. Alexia Waffle Fries. So good, and usually in the organic section of your grocery store.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Big Gulp
That is me swallowing my pride. Because I want to come back even though I said I was done. And I can't believe how much I missed my blog. And my people. And I became addicted to facebook, and I don't really like it that much. So... I am back. Here are some old school pictures to celebrate my return. Enjoy.
This is Jeremy and I just hours after he proposed. I love the look on his face. And my high waisted pants and cropped shirt.
This is my apartment at BYU the year Jeremy and I met. We were not in love yet. Maybe I can see why. Hmmm. Also, that is Greg for those of you in the neighborhood. And I adore everybody in this picture.
My sister Katie and I got married two weeks apart and then had a joint reception.
I love this pictures. It looks even better in black and white. Lets not talk about the jewelry and veil.
One of the best days of my life. Graduating from BYU after I had Spencer. Both of my families came out to support me. It was such a great accomplishment. I am so happy for my sister Sally that just graduated and Stacey coming up soon!
This is Jeremy and I just hours after he proposed. I love the look on his face. And my high waisted pants and cropped shirt.
This is my apartment at BYU the year Jeremy and I met. We were not in love yet. Maybe I can see why. Hmmm. Also, that is Greg for those of you in the neighborhood. And I adore everybody in this picture.
My sister Katie and I got married two weeks apart and then had a joint reception.
I love this pictures. It looks even better in black and white. Lets not talk about the jewelry and veil.
One of the best days of my life. Graduating from BYU after I had Spencer. Both of my families came out to support me. It was such a great accomplishment. I am so happy for my sister Sally that just graduated and Stacey coming up soon!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Don't Worry
I just want to let you all know that I did not make my blog private and not invite You. I needed to turn my blog off and I wasn't ready to delete it yet. So, I just made it private and didn't invite Anybody. Ok? I keep trying to have my last post, but then I just keep going... Maybe it's a sign.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
And the winner is...
Sally!
Aren't you excited?? You won! We put all the names in a hat, and now you get a delicious dinner this week while you are here visiting! Any requests??
Aren't you excited?? You won! We put all the names in a hat, and now you get a delicious dinner this week while you are here visiting! Any requests??
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
First and Last
This will be my last post. I am done with my blog. I started in March 2008 and it has been a fun two years, but this fat lady has sung. Hmmm? What is that? You would like to hear some parting thoughts? Alright, if you insist.
I think that people who see their glass as half-empty have gotten a bad rap. I love that I look at a glass and see that it is half empty. You know why? Fill 'er up! That is my motto. If you are just sitting there thinking that your glass is half full, then suddenly it is empty. You didn't prepare, and you are left thirsty. Not me. I look at that half empty glass and say, I better make some plans and keep that thing filled up. You know what I am saying?
Projects I am hoping to work on this coming year: Organizing pantry, again. Organizing office, again. Personal journaling. The summer of Sam. Running in my first race, and probably some walking. Delivering random treats to friends and neighbors. Having more families over for dinner.
And on that note, my first giveaway on my last post. I will do a drawing to have your family over for dinner. You probably should live in the area unless you have plans of visiting soon, which is always welcome! Please leave a parting comment and I will do a random drawing on Saturday morning. Can't wait to see who wins!
Thanks for all the comments, happy blogging!
I think that people who see their glass as half-empty have gotten a bad rap. I love that I look at a glass and see that it is half empty. You know why? Fill 'er up! That is my motto. If you are just sitting there thinking that your glass is half full, then suddenly it is empty. You didn't prepare, and you are left thirsty. Not me. I look at that half empty glass and say, I better make some plans and keep that thing filled up. You know what I am saying?
Projects I am hoping to work on this coming year: Organizing pantry, again. Organizing office, again. Personal journaling. The summer of Sam. Running in my first race, and probably some walking. Delivering random treats to friends and neighbors. Having more families over for dinner.
And on that note, my first giveaway on my last post. I will do a drawing to have your family over for dinner. You probably should live in the area unless you have plans of visiting soon, which is always welcome! Please leave a parting comment and I will do a random drawing on Saturday morning. Can't wait to see who wins!
Thanks for all the comments, happy blogging!
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Some Thoughts
I really love crystal light. It is delicious and a healthy way to drink lots of water when I am really craving juice.
The Les Schwab Tire place here in town has a big sign in front of it promoting free meat if you go there. Hmmm. This sign disturbs me every time I drive by it. I don't want meat from my tire place. Is anyone else thinking road kill?
I have been getting really annoyed by people lately. People are annoying, and rude and stupid. So, I decided to read some self improvement books because maybe the problem is me. I don't want to think badly about people. Well, I have read the books, and I really have improved myself. But, people are still annoying. So I guess it wasn't me! ( This is supposed to be funny. If you don't find it funny you might be annoying.)
I went to go buy Nathan some little baby shoes. I am tired of his feet always been bare, and I have never really owned newborn shoes. There were about 10 racks of cute baby girl shoes, and one small rack of baby boy. I felt sad. Girl shoes are really cute, and strappy, and sparkly. I love shoes!
Spencer is having the best year of school ever! It has been so fun to get such glowing reports. This new school has been so great. We have now done public, private, and charter. Does anyone want to hear my thoughts on schools?
Nathan had his two month appointment today. He is up to 12 lbs. and I made the very difficult decision to begin vaccinations. Very tough decision....
Spring is coming.... I am so excited!! I think Sam is going to start Violin lessons soon, and Spencer will get back into piano. Spencer graduated from OT-occupational therapy. He was meeting so many of his goals we decided to let it go for now. This was a big deal, and very exciting.
The Les Schwab Tire place here in town has a big sign in front of it promoting free meat if you go there. Hmmm. This sign disturbs me every time I drive by it. I don't want meat from my tire place. Is anyone else thinking road kill?
I have been getting really annoyed by people lately. People are annoying, and rude and stupid. So, I decided to read some self improvement books because maybe the problem is me. I don't want to think badly about people. Well, I have read the books, and I really have improved myself. But, people are still annoying. So I guess it wasn't me! ( This is supposed to be funny. If you don't find it funny you might be annoying.)
I went to go buy Nathan some little baby shoes. I am tired of his feet always been bare, and I have never really owned newborn shoes. There were about 10 racks of cute baby girl shoes, and one small rack of baby boy. I felt sad. Girl shoes are really cute, and strappy, and sparkly. I love shoes!
Spencer is having the best year of school ever! It has been so fun to get such glowing reports. This new school has been so great. We have now done public, private, and charter. Does anyone want to hear my thoughts on schools?
Nathan had his two month appointment today. He is up to 12 lbs. and I made the very difficult decision to begin vaccinations. Very tough decision....
Spring is coming.... I am so excited!! I think Sam is going to start Violin lessons soon, and Spencer will get back into piano. Spencer graduated from OT-occupational therapy. He was meeting so many of his goals we decided to let it go for now. This was a big deal, and very exciting.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Drivers
Random thoughts post I have wanted to do for awhile now. Jeremy and I have lived in quite a few cities now. I have noticed something about the correlation between the general feel of a city and the way people drive in that city. Here are four cities and my thoughts:
Boston
Hands down, my favorite city to drive in. I can only use "A" words to describe the drivers here. Aggressive, Alert, Assertive, and Ambitious. When driving in Boston you have to use all the tools that your car provides you that in most cities are ignored. The horn is not rude, it is a tool to help keep traffic moving. You must use your horn in Boston. Your turn signal is your life line. You need this to communicate with other drivers. I can parallel park like nobodies business. Everyone seems to be working together to keep traffic moving and efficient at all times. I guess this can come off as rude when you first arrive, or if you are visiting. I loved the energy and excitement of driving in Boston. But this took a lot of practice. You have to learn to adapt to Boston driving, or pull over and take the T.
Washington D.C.
Oh my, the laziest drivers I have ever encountered. Maybe because the traffic is so bad there. Maybe you just give up. I think it is a cultural thing, a southern thing. You definitely feel the southern influence in Virginia. There was no signaling going on here, or any indication of what the driver in front of you might be doing. It didn't feel intentional, just lazy. Also, the HOV lane there is for 3 people. It was almost always empty while the rest of the freeway was backed up for hours. I think people were just lazy to coordinate a carpool. I just had another baby to create my own HOV 3. The day Sam was born I hit the HOV lane and was so happy!
Boston
Hands down, my favorite city to drive in. I can only use "A" words to describe the drivers here. Aggressive, Alert, Assertive, and Ambitious. When driving in Boston you have to use all the tools that your car provides you that in most cities are ignored. The horn is not rude, it is a tool to help keep traffic moving. You must use your horn in Boston. Your turn signal is your life line. You need this to communicate with other drivers. I can parallel park like nobodies business. Everyone seems to be working together to keep traffic moving and efficient at all times. I guess this can come off as rude when you first arrive, or if you are visiting. I loved the energy and excitement of driving in Boston. But this took a lot of practice. You have to learn to adapt to Boston driving, or pull over and take the T.
Washington D.C.
Oh my, the laziest drivers I have ever encountered. Maybe because the traffic is so bad there. Maybe you just give up. I think it is a cultural thing, a southern thing. You definitely feel the southern influence in Virginia. There was no signaling going on here, or any indication of what the driver in front of you might be doing. It didn't feel intentional, just lazy. Also, the HOV lane there is for 3 people. It was almost always empty while the rest of the freeway was backed up for hours. I think people were just lazy to coordinate a carpool. I just had another baby to create my own HOV 3. The day Sam was born I hit the HOV lane and was so happy!
Salt Lake City
Oh boy, Utah drivers. I had always heard about how bad they were. I never experienced this as a college student because I did not have a car. When we moved there I was anxious to figure out the mystery. I can sum it up in one word, Selfish. The most selfish drivers on the planet! Everybody is out for themselves. If you signal that you are coming over, nobody will let you in! Selfish drivers are dangerous drivers. I never really felt safe driving there because you just never knew what the other drivers were going to do.
Portland
This is where I learned to drive, and I have to say that I am kind of a stickler about following traffic rules. I think this comes from Oregon. When we go back Jeremy and I are amazed at how strictly people follow the traffic rules. The speed limit on freeways is 55, and literally everyone goes 55. It is bizarre, and a little bit annoying. Mostly this is weird to me because it doesn't really fit the granola feeling of the area. Fascinating.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Share the Love
Well, things have been pretty crazy around here. Matthew loves playing with Nathan, especially when he is in his bouncy seat. He likes to pretend he is a rocket blasting off. Nathan loves it, and I know they will be good buddies. Last night we did a love themed family night. Jeremy had everybody go around and the person holding the big pink heart got to hear why everyone in the family loves them. We do this every once in awhile, and you get some pretty cute answers. I think we all felt the love fest, but here are two of my favorite answers that didn't quite fit the theme. We were all saying why we love baby Nathan. Spencer said, "He is so cute, but I really wanted a sister. I just really think we need a sister." Nice. Then Spencer was telling Matthew that he is a really nice brother. Sam quickly pipes in, "Well, he is not that nice. Actually, he is kind of mean." Lovely. Thanks for sharing. 
Friday, January 15, 2010
A Circus Act??
I have been in the car a couple of times now with my boy brood, and I gotta say it felt strange. Like we are a circus act. It feels like boys are endlessly pouring out of my car doors. We only added one, but it feels like 10. Other than that I have had two weeks of wonderful help from my mother and Jeremy's mother. I will now conquer week 3 solo. This should be interesting since I don't really wake up or become coherent until about 2pm. Someday I will post more pictures...
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Happiest New Year
In December I decided I only had one resolution for the new year. Not to be pregnant in 2010. It was a bold resolution considering my due date was well into January, but I knew that if I set a goal for myself I could meet it. By New Year's Eve I was feeling pretty discouraged, I was already going to have to start the new year with a failed resolution. My parents and siblings were all in town for my niece's baptism, and we were all just hoping. Well, I woke up on New Years Day about 6 in the morning with intense stomach cramps. I figured I had the flu going around the family. After about half hour of really bad "flu" cramps coming every couple of minutes I woke up Jeremy. We were all sleeping over at my sister's house, and I was going to tell him to take me home for a little bit until I felt better. Jeremy took one look at me and said we are going to the hospital. At this point I was literally crying with each pain but still thinking I had the flu. Hmmmm. So, we finally got our crazy car ride to the hospital Jeremy had always been hoping for. Good thing we had his land rover to navigate the crazy streets of Boise!! We got to the hospital, water broke, contractions stop, 12 hours of labor, epidural wasn't working, baby didn't want to come out, finally did, hardly any pushing, perfect, alert baby!
Meet Nathan Henry born on January 1, 2010. 7lbs. 5 oz. Here he is one week old. I am going to count this resolution as being met!
Meet Nathan Henry born on January 1, 2010. 7lbs. 5 oz. Here he is one week old. I am going to count this resolution as being met!
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