Kingman-ites!

Long Lost, but Happy Still

2010-06-03T21:55:00.001-07:00

So, I'll catch up with all that has happened, but I'll just start with Chloe's Daisy Ceremony-Potluck for the end of the year. Chloe received her prizes from selling the Girl Scout cookies, of which her favorite was a matching Panda-baby and a little girl t-shirt. She named her Panda Chelsea, and she was so bummed after dirtying her shirt... 3 days of wearing it finally got it dirty.

She said a temporary good-bye to her beloved "Aunt Di" and we snapped a picture of her and her B.F.F. Mathias.Aunt Di/ Daisy's has been a huge pull for Eva to 'get with the learning program' and read. She's willing to let me homeschool her so that she can go to Daisy's with Chloe.Aunt Di always let Eva participate in as much as she could and definitely has lit up her mind with the Brownie-way. I'm excited for her confidence and energy to be put in a good direction, and Aunt Di is old fashioned with manner's, etc., so I LOVE HER! I hope to be a Girl Scout leader in the fall.

And Chloe did lose her second tooth the Sunday after she lost her other tooth - which was a Friday. The story is hers to tell, and I hope she writes it somewhere. It's humorous though- a hard cupcake and her super -loose tooth that just 'fell' out.

Freezer Success!

2010-04-26T08:51:00.000-07:00

I made a bunch of breakfast burritos and were sure they were ruined but warmed one up and thought.. hmmm... pretty darn good still...

It's awesome and now B has breakfast on the go with protein and all! Here's the instructions:

You can vary the additions to this recipe for breakfast burritos. Add onions or frozen hash brown potatoes, omit the salsa, try using different types of cheese or flavored tortillas. The possibilities are endless!

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

12 eggs
2 Tbsp. butter
1 lb. pork sausage, cooked and drained
1/2 cup chunky salsa
2 cups Cheddar or Pepper Jack cheese
24 flour tortillas

Preparation:

In large skillet, melt butter. Beat eggs in large bowl and add to skillet. Cook eggs in butter, stirring frequently, until scrambled and set. Add cooked sausage and salsa to egg mixture and mix gently.

Warm tortillas as directed on package. Place about 1/2 cup egg and sausage mixture onto each tortilla and sprinkle with some cheese. Roll up each tortilla to make burritos, folding in the ends and rolling up. Place on parchment paper lined cookie sheets and freeze until solid. Then wrap individually and package in zip-lock freezer bags.

When you're ready to eat, unwrap the burritos, wrap loosely in microwave safe paper towel and heat in the microwave on high power for 1-3 minutes until hot and cheese is melted.

You can also thaw burritos in the refrigerator overnight, then wrap each in foil and bake at 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes until hot. The thawed burritos can also be deep fried for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and crisp. 24 burritos

I was able to make 27 burritos with this recipe, and used eggs, hashbrowns, cheese and sausage. We'll decorate with salsa as needed, but the girls don't like salsa all the time, so I left it optional.

It's Special... and WHAT!?

2010-04-26T08:43:00.000-07:00

We had a movie set to play for our date night this weekend and in my effort to chase Eva to bed, I said, "Hurry and get to bed before you see them kiss. EEWWWWW, GROOOSS!"
She swirled around and looked at me, smiling and replied, "Mom.. it's not gross it's sweet and special. (This is where I think... hmm that's kinda sweet - I'm a good mom- and then she continues) That's how we get married. I've kissed a boy. Sam and I kissed each other."
I said "Are you married now!?"
"No, mom. You're so silly."
Needless to say my mind was a little bit preoccupied during the beginning of the movie. When will she realize every boy has cooties?

Meanwhile Chloe's school has boys chasing her to kiss her, and all the drama of "He said he likes you. He wants to kiss you" etc... OY! She replies, "My dad will come here and beat you up!" At least that's the report that I hear...

When did my girls get interested in kissing and boys???

TOOTHFAIRY, TITHING AND TESTIMONY!

2010-04-26T08:35:00.000-07:00

We are proud to announce the first visit from the Tooth Fairy this weekend... twice!! Chloe lost a tooth on Friday and then yet another yesterday during a cupcake snack. She was nervous when both teeth were so ready and was eating only on the sides of her teeth to avoid those loose ones. She is so proud of her new smile, and we're reinforcing the concept of tithing.. 1/10 of all we earn goes to the Lord, it is naturally his part for blessing us. She will be a tithe payer this year.. and I think it's a great time! She also wrote down her testimony in her journal the other day after our talk about what a testimony is (Something one believes to be true) " I believe / I have a testimony- "and so on. She wrote " I believe Jesus loves me. I believe Heaven is real. I believe I am a daughter of God." It was really sweet. I will get another picture with both teeth missing and post it, too!

Spring Cleaning

2010-04-21T12:48:00.000-07:00

I've been spending several hours outside weeding our yard this week, and planting the flowers we bought last weekend. It's been work and as always rewarding to see something you've worked hard for turn out beautifully. It's a time of year when Chloe really can get her hands dirty and she absolutely loves it. She just 'gets' the gentility that nature needs and the rules for it make sense to her. Chloe shines here - Eva is deterred by the dirt and sweat she'll experience, but she'll still be a good sport and try it for us. We put mulch on this year and it's something I think the girls both really liked to do - sprinkle here and there and everywhere!!

I've been yearning for a space outside for the kids to play contently so we'll see what I can create for summer fun.

By Small and Simple Things...

2010-04-15T22:18:00.000-07:00

I hear these words a lot, " I just CANT DO IT!" Whether it's me frazzled at children or weeding, or my kids in frustration about something, they come to mind easily sometimes. Now, those words aren't really allowed in this house as it should more appropriately be stated, " I just WONT DO IT!"

As I was watering the plants the other day, cleaning the floors and doing the dishes, I was thinking how powerful water is as a substance. It does so much for us. It is nutritious and relaxing to listen to, and yet the constant flow of water on a substance wears it right away. Hot, cold- it is a life sustaining necessity. But, it's just a little water here and there really. I've had those sticky spots on pans and silverware that seem to take a lot of water and scrubbing to get it off, but it does come off. If I didn't have that water, some of this dishes I have would surely get tossed given the patience I have for things like dishes.

I thought about this power of water, of the Hoover Dam and the power that the water brings to the area and how it changed this areas economy and industry out in the west. That's amazing to me. But what's even more amazing? The Grand Canyon. I'm sure when it started waaaay up on the top, no one would have ever imagined the power it would have on 'just a little dirt'. Yet the water has gradually worn down all these layers of stone and rock. The deposits are being moved and relocated into another location downstream somewhere. This stream has meant several things to several people in the last several several centuries. Yet it is only one river.

Never underestimate the power of one person... and never say "I CAN'T DO THIS!" We limit ourselves too much! The song comes to mind, "Put your shoulder to the wheel, and push along." We don't know how many people are touched by us, weeds will always need pulling, and the kids will always need tending. A mother's influence is unfathomable. Just like water against the Grand Canyon walls. At least for me...

Thinking Day

2010-04-11T21:45:00.000-07:00

Chloe had a little presentation for us to watch Saturday. She is in the local Girl Scout troop and has had a blast! It's been great to watch her get out of her little reclusive shell she'd been in and get to do things she wouldn't have the chance to do normally. In the earlier spring she was able to go see Disney on Ice and roller skate. We joined the troop for the roller skating and she had a rollin-good time. Eva can't wait to be a Girl Scout and they let her participate whenever it is OK.
Chloe was a Fairy who painted Tulips for a lady (a folk tale). She got to read an important fact about England and hers was about the first public zoo.
We had so much fun with this outfit and then she was able to get an 'old' outfit (But seriously I remember my friend wearing this to her Girl Scouts meetings... so it's not THAT old... right? ) It was too cute. We couldn't sport the beenie that it came with due to the bun in the hair for the skit.
She did a great job. She also brought a potato and it's seeds and the girls formed the number 100 while they sang the Girl Scout Song... it was actually a little touching. So sad that it was a family function and only 1/20 of the girls' parents were there. Eva got dressed up to have fun that day too- Great lookin- Daughter's of God. I stuck some flowers in her hair so she looked fairy-ish and springy. She was a great sport and posed like ... a model or something when I took this picture.
Gabriel was a pretty good sport about not wrecking all the displays and screaming his head off all the time. He did sweep the floor for the Girls Scouts, try all the food as well in the cultural food section... many he did not like and the faces he made were humorous! Look at all those teeth! He's currently teething on his bottom i-teeth. He sticks his tongue over the spot and constantly looks like he has something in his mouth. He's getting better at listening to me as I allow him more independence a little here and little there. I love the Girl Scouts for my family!

Easter Saturday

2010-04-11T21:25:00.000-07:00

Because of the hype of "The Bunny" we decided to leave Sunday sacred and do the fun wild on Saturday. We dyed eggs the night before and after Gabe spilled pink dye all over the table (and after Brian pulled it out of the wood using our miracle liquid gold cleaner) we had dinosaur eggs, monkey eggs and Tinkerbell eggs in a variety of colors.

The Easter Bunny got the girls some fun things which they discovered at 515am and I just so happened to get only about 4 hours of broken sleep that night. Complete cooincidence, I know. I don't know how I missed that silly Easter Bunny. Chloe wrote the Easter Bunny letters and offered her dress up bunny ears, a card from all her siblings and then asked a question. I've taken a pic of the letter and hopefully it will post well.
On Sunday our Easter ham turned out scrumptious (Thanks Safeway) as well as our cheesy potatoes a-la Nana. It was an extra fun thing to make bunny shaped biscuits with the girls. Totally cute and fun!
We watched our church's broadcasts of General Conference on Saturday and Sunday as the kids actually did settle down and listen - especially with the packets I printed out (Thanks, Sugardoodle.com) Chloe's favorite thing was learning to be modest and not show off our bodies. That means no tank tops, shorts above the knees or belly revealing clothing. I know that she'll be protected by her angels as she follows the councils of the Prophet in all she does, and it's nice that we both agree on modesty. We'll see if we can keep that up for those nice 'agreeable' teenage years! Eva 'wrote' some words she heard them say several times and was also really good at keeping the noise level down during the talks. We could all feel the Spirit in our home for sure. I really liked just letting Gabe play happily while I was uplifted and not having to worry about him getting into another Sister's purse, or screaming etc. Ah- but we are back to church today and he's doing a little better every week - I think. And here they are together - and mostly looking at the camera.

Chloe is 6!

2010-04-05T08:01:00.000-07:00

Chloe turned 6 and I'm so happy! She is such a help to our family,and sense of general calm in moments of frustration. I can tell she has confidence and courage now - a big difference from just a year ago. She never would go up front for singing - very shy around everyone but immediate family. Now she lets her vibrant personality shine all the time - no matter where. She is riding a 3 wheel bike - with only one training wheel on as a compromise between no training wheels and two. She has a huge heart and compassion that just seems to be the perfect thing when someone gets hurt or is sad. She's a great example for the other kids to follow and I'm grateful for that.
She had a Secret Garden party where she could invite 6 kids and they did some party games, had cake and ice cream and then decorated and planted their Snapdragon pots. Chloe picked those out for her birthday plant. We'll see how well they do. The pots looked great!
B and I got her a camera this year, trying to support her interest in taking pictures. She's coming into her own world of artsy and english hobbies (hooray for me!)She's a great reader, too and I think she takes after my mom there. She does voices, and pauses for all the breaks just like someone was talking. She loves Junie B Jones and has just gotten the loose tooth edition. She has two loose teeth up top and two loose on bottom.
Well, here are some of the pictures from her day.

A NewYear - What a few months

2010-03-30T14:08:00.000-07:00

I know that I haven't been very up to par with this blog -as the decor dated it around Halloween and Thanksgiving.

Christmas went well - B's mom came out and we were able to do lots of things with her. My favorite thing was visiting Oatman. Eva walked right into a burro's big barrel chest head on - and looked up at its head about 6 in. about hers. She didn't scream, cry or move really. Then there was the waiter who was licking his hands - and wearing skulls and roses on his shirt. Then there was a magnet that read "It's so hot in Oatman even my ass is sweating- (the reference to the animal prevalent there.)" We had brought a 5lb bag of carrots with us and man - it's truly the catnip of those burros. We had to duck behind store doors and wait for some of them to go find someone else to harass. One burro snatched the bag right out of Nana's hands and you know - she turned around and grabbed that sucker back. It was just hilarious the things that were happening. We even stayed for the gun fight. It was pretty neat but one of the actors had just had hip surgery so we watched him die s.l.o.w.l.y. And one of the shots actually hurt the other guy although they are just blanks - it was not supposed to be pointed right at the other person. So - we made all sorts of memories there.

In February our ward boundaries were redrawn and I was released as RS Counselor. Now I am the Activity Days Leader. I am really excited about all the fun things we can do. The girls are too cute too - and before they get too cool for fun things. Ages 8-11. I'm jazzed, needless to say.

Brian is the ward assistant clerk mainly responsible for membership records. He graduated with his Master's Degree in December, and we celebrated by going to OH for a few days and doing 'the walk' down in Columbus with several other students.

Our visit to OH brought the realization again that AZ is really where I feel at home now - although there's so many great and wonderful people in OH. The sky was gray... the snow was gray.. Gray. Yep. And it was cold. And snowy. I mad a topsy turvy cake for Brian's graduation.

SO in the realization that we felt at home here in AZ - we started looking for a home. We've looked and looked and looked, but in the end it still comes down to savings. Debt to income ratio - yada yada. We don't want to be here forever, but a few more years will not hurt us for sure. Renting was the outcome out of all this hectic chaos for all those who know me. Thia family rearranged practically the entire house this weekend to refresh our flow and view on the house.

Eva had her 4th Birthday ala Tinkerbell and I made a nice cake for her that looked like a pro. I was pleased. She got everything she wanted plus some and she had a blast at her party when we danced Irish jigs and made fairy crowns with pipe cleaners, beads and ribbon. Then they decorated their own fairy wings. It was cool.

B had a birthday and turned 27 - and he's still so handsome. Eva decided for him that he would have a Spiderman birthday and so he did. I think his best gift was the 42" joint grad / birthday gift that we got that outsourced my favorite Entertainment Center. How much do those go for in garage sales, anyways? So we have the 'clearest' TV ever - per Chloe. He's still going for a second Master's in Information Systems Management. The girls did their cards all by themselves and they were so proud - I loved it. They got to pick out who gave dad what. Gabe just isn't too into the production yet - but he liked the recordable card. So much that he's torn it apart to see where the sound was coming from and well - ya.

Life in the Homeschool Lane...

2009-11-24T14:28:00.000-08:00

We've taken pictures of life during school hours here and also Gabe's recent rash of getting in to EVERYTHING!! Everywhere he is, chaos and mess reign. Slimy globbered toys, food, and who knows what leave his 'tracks'. Welcome to toddlerhood, baby boy!

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-24T14:20:00.000-08:00

This Year we had Cleopatra, a lion, and a Tinkerbell. They all loved their costumes. Mostly- Gabe was a little upset, but he was grateful when the cold night descended. Ya, ya, I know - cold was like 60 something. But dang man- it's cold out here when that temp hits and there's no sun.
The kids went up and down the neighborhood street, and then were begging to come home. We've still got about half the candy. Who could ever eat that much anyways???
The girls were bold enough this year to go up on their own, regardless of the spooks along the sidewalk, or scary sounds. I loved it. Their independence is refreshing in moments like this. Brian and I were vampire/vampiress.

(and yes- I've seen New Moon, read the books and am totally geeked about the whole series.)

Rock on!

2009-11-24T14:15:00.000-08:00

These are my 'boys' for an afternoon of Guitar Hero. Okay - just a song or two, but that's enough for me! I can't stand the thing! But at least a few people in my family appreciate the purchase. Gabe couldn't get enough of it. Hilarious! Brian played for him, but he thought he was playing, just like he 'drives' with Mari Cart and other things. Cute, too!

Applesauce...Apples

2009-11-24T14:09:00.000-08:00

*Like this, right mom!? I can tell they've learned something from me in the process of canning applesauce up the wazoo!

A Walking Advertisment

2009-11-24T12:43:00.000-08:00

Hey mom! You know what I want? I want these things you can stick on your teeth and then walk around all day and not have to brush. They're like little stickers!! And then you can walk around and say (*smile*) and everyone will say, "Wow- what nice teeth ya have!" And they're like little stickers! That's what I want.

Hmm. Any idea of what she's talking about? She seems sold on their idea, doesn't she? What other things has she seen and just believed because it was 'on tv'? Crazy. She should've gotten paid for what she was trying to sell.

Oh- and as I'm writing this we have natural gas people fixing an apparently leaky pipe outside my house. Thanks for those tender mercies there! I had absolutely no idea because we've been across the house and in a closed room most of the morning. Crazy. Things to be thankful for, for sure!

Ah - things have been busy here. I organized a food drive for Thanksgiving for local members and we fed 4 large families and 3 single/couples. We're on our way towards having a successful nativity play in the beginning of the month as well. And we're doing a food drive/toy and book drive for kids during the month of December. I'm excited to see what gets donated and how the sisters react. It's been hard for a lot of people this year, and I think it's great our sisters are willing to share the little they might have to better someone else that's in harder times. I think it's coming down to that as a society. People bearing one another's burden's, yada yada. oo- and I've also started to organize a craft day for our RS sisters a ''last moment'' kind of thing right before Christmas, but we've had some awesome ideas presented, so I'm totally jazzed!

Here's some pics of my new haircut - totally Kate and 8 style. I love her hair all the time and I've felt gorgeous with this new 'do' . I've even started wearing makeup for everyday again... Brian likes it. Even better!

Brian's been called to be the membership clerk of the ward. I knew it was a clerk position *gut-wise* but had no idea there existed a clerk-assisant position. Who knew!? My intuition strikes again!

I've gotten almost over the loss - almost, but feelings come and go quickly now - like a tsunami. I'm ok one moment and then a look, or something prompts a teary-eyed me. We'll figure it out. Eventually.

I'm hoping to be somewhere else by the time the next school year starts, and the next few months will tell me where.... *crossing my fingers* maybe closer to nuclear family. Homeschooling is going Ok, but it's not my absolute forte. I'd much rather sing abc's hundreds of times than try to explain how a shape is not a form, but every form has it's shape. Seriously! And then there's dealing with the tantrums the rest of the kids have while I'm trying to be patient with the oldest. That's just the youngest toddler most times, and he only screams because he wants the computer and the keyboard, and sharp pencils in his mouth as he stands on a chair. Ya. Most is my parental guilt for not spending equal time with everyone, but Eva could care less about school sometimes, and Gabe is only 1.

Snip, Snip!

2009-10-26T21:11:00.000-07:00

Today I actually took some scissors to my sons almost mullet. I was trying to push it off, but when the food starts a-stickin' my scissors needed to get a-clippin'! Several screams later and after 15 chocolate chips were eaten-or rather inhaled without much success, I just started grabbing and snipping the best I could. I don't think he'll ever sit still again - but he's just the cutest little squirmy worm! Now hair no longer curls at the nape of his neck.. so he grows up just a little more every day. The girls thought it was really fun to try and distract him, feeding him treats and trying to get him to look the other way. It was a good time for all - except Gabriel, most likely. He's up to a full cup of life cereal in the morning with a sippy cup for breakfast- a full sandwich and some applesauce and then another sippy for lunch- dinner is a guess if he'll eat or not. Seriously, where does it all go?!

Updates

2009-10-23T10:01:00.000-07:00

So, we're updating the last few weeks. Sickness. The swine flu, more like - and everyone BUT Gabriel managed to catch it. The pharmacy budget I set is completely blown out of the water, and I'm not excited for the 5 Urgent Care bills and 2 sick visits to the kids pediatrician. It would have been nice if I went to the Urgent Care first - they tested everyone for flu once one case was confirmed in the family.

Gabriel's Birthday. That I'll make a fresh post about. But he was sick all weekend before, and right up to his birthday. Luckily on his birthday, on his anti-histamine his polka dots from the roseola virus disappeared and he was at least a little manageable. Chloe was recouping from a 102 fever the evening before so it was a slow and low key day.

Fall time - my favorite season...and the events of the month have taken our 'splurge' income straight to the 'sick' expenses and then some. Leaves around here are changing if you look carefully, but they'll blow away and you don't see them on the ground long enough to jump in them. Only the weeds and tumbleweed stick around the yard - and shoot, we could jump in those all year long if they were actually pleasant.

IRS - Apparently our CFA out here did not include the income I had from OH in 2007, when I had even given him the information for it. So we got a letter in the mail yesterday demanding the hefty sum be paid asap, of course. I think I'll use a new CFA this year. Frustrating.

Work stuff- Brian was given some huge responsibilities at work that are causing him heartburn at every hour of the day. It was kind of like, "We failed at this last time and we had a whole team. You do it yourself in half the time, okay?" I've been watching a little girl here and there but it's been crazy with sickness here and there. She's a doll though, and I miss her playing with my girls every week. I am toying again with the idea of becoming licensed nationally... seems like a good thing to do to be prepared in times of need. Just a hard expense upfront for a 'stay at home mom'.

Temple visits- actually made it and had an absolutely wonderful spiritual experience! Hadn't been to the temple in almost a year and a half but my goal is to be going monthly now. We'll see!

Gabe's Post

2009-09-28T14:05:00.000-07:00

He deserves his own post as he's learned to do so many things this last week. He's stacking, attacking, building and breaking.... Climbing, singing, rolling around - so much!! I survived four days without Brian last week - whew! But I felt he missed just so much so I took all these pictures as Gabe was doing things. He sits on his little doggie chair now, rides instead of pushes his popper around, and from what I can tell he prefers order and cleanliness (fixing all things out of place lately). And I finally got a picture that shows his two bottom teeth. Now to get some pics of the top four that are coming in all once. Poor little man. He likes to wear headbands, purses and pushes strollers around with the girls all day too. I am slowly building a boy toy collection, and dinosaurs are our newest addition. Things are great with Gabe!! I love him so much and appreciate the sweet spirit he brings into our home.

What's Up- Side Down?

2009-09-28T14:01:00.000-07:00

I have no idea what kind of lizard this is, but his visits have become frequent- ever since our neighbors put up a pool-- coincidence? No idea, but I thought this picture was too cute and detailed to pass up posting. Someday* I won't live in the desert and I'll appreciate all the wildlife pics I have. I'm going to try and post more of them on here so that when I make a book- all sorts of things will be recorded.
Anyone know what this is? I recognize it from my road runner book, but more than that-?

2009-09-28T13:53:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures of the Fair that we caught at a much needed time. Thanks to our neighbors we were able to attend without paying for the adults, and we got free parking (* in the good, close, convenient spots) We actually got Chloe to go on the rides, and being around Eva she loosened up about 1/2 way into the car ride. From there, it was the turning dragon ride... I couldn't believe how much they wanted to do. We all know how reserved and hesitant Chloe is (she won't even play the birthday party games at anyone's party except ours). The weather was misty and chilly and windy, the rides were expensive but I think the break it provided for our girls' minds was well worth it. I hope we fall into similar luck next year. The girls also got treated to cotton candy, and Gabe even had a pinch. He got pretty excited about it once he let us put it on his tongue. Date of pics: 9/13/09

A quality pet.

2009-09-21T16:02:00.001-07:00

I don't think there is a child out there that hasn't had a pet of some sort growing up. In Chloe's curriculum they suggested getting a terrarium and some crickets to see how animals live, etc. I mentioned this to Brian as a 'whatever' kind of possibility, knowing the things would just die and - "What is the point in buying something you know is just going to die in a matter of weeks?" Brian fully supports this schooling at home, so he volunteered to get 'us' a fish. That night Chloe and daddy had a date. To the 'pet store'/"Walmart"... and came back with what seemed like everything a fish would need- food, pretty gravel, a 'cage'... And so we set it up that night and the tiger barb fish was named, 'Cow'. The next morning it received another name - 'Cow Stripes'.... so it was that they were happy with Cow Stripes. Gabe stared deviously at the aquarium...hm. Good thing it was out of his reach, eh? The girls traded off feeding the fish food and all seemed so good - a focus on living things instead of a recent loss. Until this morning as the girls got up for their morning breakfast and sat at the table. "Cow Stripes is sleeping!" Really? I checked it out and sure enough he was 'sleeping' on the bottom of the tank floor. I immediately headed to my room where I told Brian he was going to have to tell the girls the news. Eva argued with him for quite some time - and it didn't help that he started floating up gradually throughout the day..."He woke up, mom!" "No. No, honey. He's just a little more dead..." Chloe strikes out with "Everything's dead. The babies dead! Cow's dead!" That didn't sit at all well with us and we let her know that was understandable, but not acceptable to say. Moving on- we sucked it up, went to the official pet store and bought a beta fish. Apparently- the other fish needed the 'air bubblers' to live. Go figure. "The fish just ran out of oxygen and basically suffocated," the lady announced to our family of pet-co cart pushers. (I love their mini-carts there) That 'bubbler thing' would have been nice to know Wal-man.... So now we have a male beta, named Rainbow who is a 'girl' and fish food and dechlorinator. And I hope this lasts more than 3 days. (The girls laughed hysterically as I flushed Cow down the toilet. The idea was just absurd to them... I didn't have them watch but did 'the deed' while they were munching snacks. "Goodye Cow! Have a good time in heaven!") And thanks to Cow, we are now more educated about keeping fish.

As time goes by....

2009-09-17T19:31:00.000-07:00

And time goes by...not always as I thought it should but it does regardless. I have been through a d/c, d/e, and well- a lot of physical and emotional things this last week that have physically and spiritually brought me to my knees. I know I was chosen for this test for an increase in wisdom and knowledge. What exactly that means I will probably look back on this experience and see, given the time to heal. I cannot say that I've been alone on this whirlwind. Yes, it may seem corny to call it so, but seriously - it really has been. One turn after another.... Brian has been whirled into this more than I thought he ever imagine he could be. I think the storm has finally passed, but Brian's remained a strength for me spiritually, emotionally, and physically and for that I am so so so grateful for. I pause at moments to look at him and think, "Wow. I married him, and I couldn't have picked anyone else so perfect for me." Heavenly Father knows who I am. Fact 1.
My family has been so good. Chloe made me cards upon cards with lots of happy and loving hearts (on just one we counted 42!) and Eva has given lots of smiles and snuggles ("I love you. And I still love baby," she'll say as she kisses me goodnight and blows kisses up to heaven.) Ah, to have the simple faith and knowledge of a child. Gabe has been a good snuggler and just like time keeps moving on and I cannot wallow too long or I'll miss something, I just know it! I've received meals from dear friends several times now, and gorgeous flowers from loving family and friends as well. After telling the girls the sad truth a little over a week ago, I was trying to get them to sleep - enticing them by dreaming about their little brother or sister up in heaven. Here's a conversation that touched me.... Families are put together by divine knowledge to give us strength and no real 'oopses' happen. Fact 2.
me : "What are you going to dream about? Maybe your baby brother or sister?"
eva : "Ya!"
me : "What do you think she's wearing (as Eva has determined this loss to have been a girl) up there? What do you think she'll eat?"
eva : "Polka-dot pink jammies, and bubble-gum ice cream! But- not too much or else she'll have cavities."
me: "Oh - that's a cool thing about heaven though- NO CAVITIES! When we get there we'll be able to eat as much as we want of anything!"
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Chloe: Do you know what I'll dream about? I'll dream about my little sister too, and do you know what I'll picture her doing? I'll imagine that Jesus is holding her. Do you remember how much he loves little children?
me: *soooo quietly... "yes. I do."
Chloe: Well I bet he's so happy to see her again, and she's really happy to see Him, too.
me: Yes, Chloe - I'm sure you're right. Good night. I love you.
Families can be together forever. Fact 3.

Remember the Lilies

2009-09-08T22:16:00.000-07:00

So today I had some bummer news. The baby is dead.. died, I guess should say. I am going in for d/e tomorrow and will be trying to not freak out (which I should say is not my strong point when I'm told to 'sit' and 'relax'. I'm doing ok and so is the family. We are being taken good care of by the Relief Society and friends. It's the furthest along I've been so far with a miscarriage- just 20 weeks. The baby was at least 17 weeks along, and from the ultrasound today Brian was pretty sure it was a girl. It doesn't really matter I suppose anymore-- and I'm just really bummed I had kinda just gotten psyched up for this kido to come. The Lord is wise in all things. My favorite scripture comes to mind, of which a part reads "remember the lilies how they toil not....etc" Look it up and it will most likely bring comfort to you too! But - that scripture rings a true message. I need not worry or wonder all day why things happen. The Lord will make sure that things are the way they ought to be as long as I am doing all I can. Who knows the big Y, anyways? Good night. Now we've got two beautiful children on the other side, I believe anyways. Brian treated me to a haircut and a pedicure today to try and start this ''fresh start'' I want to do with this. I'm going to lose weight, get finances in order and you know - collect myself and my family for the next little while. Please - no comments need be for this post. I write it more for informational purposes than as a call for pity. If the Lord is my strength, I shall not want.

The Boss, The Break

2009-09-06T22:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we are having dinner and my three year old looks at Brian and after a minute she comments, "You are the husband," and gesturing to me she continues... "And you are the boss." Leave it to Eva....

This morning asking Chloe to make a peanut butter and jelly for her and her sister, she runs off excitedly "OK MOM!!" Upon finding his daughter climbing ledges and getting out food Brian took over and let her make her baby brother's sandwich. She came in to my room upset and sat down on the bed mentioning something about being mad. After talking with her I think she felt that this was her big break into becoming more 'grown up'. I'll have to give her more opportunities like that when it's not situation-induced. It's a mommie moment to realize she truly does like to help out around the house and these opportunities to feel needed, appreciated and loved are not viewed as horrific chores. hm.

For those in Twilight saga- I've gotten to pg 100 in Twilight today. Very different indeed from the movie... same, but different. It's going to be a long night and I have two novels to choose from: "The Time Traveler's Wife" and "Twilight". Hm. Not really a hesitation on this one. Book club can give a little....

August for us - whew!

2009-09-03T19:30:00.000-07:00

Ok - August began slowly - I don't think I've stopped since August 10. We went down to Phoenix in the early morning of the 11th. Eva had an -- I can't even call it really an accident- a purpos-dent of poop in 8am bumper to bumper traffic. Thank heavens for our van with windows that all roll down... poor Chloe who was downwind from that. Thanks for my wonderful husband who took her stinky bum into Target pitched those brand new panties and sniffed out her new skirt to see if it was 'tainted' only to have her completely pee in it as we went across the street AFTER they had just gone potty. Congrats to Chloe who tested into the first grade material and had no hesitations in meeting her new teacher or anyone in the school. She's being challenged, actually having to think now to figure things out. Work.. huh - what a concept! She's doing awesome though, and I'm super happy that she's beginning to love doing home/online school. She's had to kinda skip some of the relaxing activities kindergarten has though- play dough time and stuff. Her teacher is awesome - she's been so incredibly patient with me as I learn how to be the "Learning Coach". We had a side visit to the Phoenix Zoo in the really hot weather. Ya. Hot. Yuck.
Gabe started walking around my birthday. What a wonderful present- on Mother's Day he started crawling. He must be a Mommie's Boy. He's trying to run now and it's almost like a funny dance as he uses his whole body to make each step. He's into hiding his head - or rather dropping it to the floor and playing 'peek-a-boo'. He does this when he feels anyone see's him - shy. Cute little shy boy - beast. He's eating one and a half pbj on top of a 9oz bottle. Tonight he tore up some fish sticks like they were nothing! He had two teeth break through - one on the 23rd and one on the 30th. He's getting some more but I'm not sure where and he's not very open to having me explore his little gums. He loves playing with his sisters and says 'da da da' - and head banging is a new fad with his fav people.
I s'pose I'm about 20weeks. The Dr is trying to get me in for blood work but it feels pointless trying to take all the kids, and then there's dinner - Chloe's school in the am... Always something taking precedence. I think I'll have the boy/girl ultrasound soon. I'm just in no rush for this pregnancy. Maybe it's because I'm not incredibly uncomfortable and have so much other stuff taking up my time right now. I have no preference....just healthy and happy. And on time. :0)
Brian's working with 'work politics' right now- back to a 5 day workweek and soon to be salary- is there any real benefit though? Just more work for a set pay, in my opinion. It's been so long since I've had to think work politics. RS is going- we've got an Enrichment coming up that I'm kinda excited for. We'll see how it goes. B's got some schooling left- feels like forever until it's done, right?
Eva can write her name now, Chloe is adding /carrying digits and learning computer parts when she can buddy up with Daddy.
Gosh - I think that's it. Other than my bday- which I got the Twilight series and a pajamagram for the cozy nights until baby comes. I've also gotten a new cookie sheet, a cheesecake pan, fun socks... I'm really excited about the little things, can't you tell? Seriously - beautiful food and comfortable me... how much better can things get?

pop rocks...

2009-07-30T15:55:00.000-07:00

Or something like a firecracker you throw down.... never done it but the girls enjoyed daddy time on Sunday morning as they used up the whole box in sheer excitement!

More fun!

2009-07-30T15:52:00.000-07:00

Ok - found another few cute sprinkler pics. The fav thing right now is to jump in the sprinkler, jump on the tramp - alternate as needed and then finish drying out with books on the patio furniture. It's great... Little G will learn someday the similar joys.

Sprinkler Fun

2009-07-30T15:44:00.000-07:00

nateWe were given a sprinkler and we tried to put it to good use that very day. Unfortunately it needed to be stuck into the ground... a slight overlook on my part. So, we put it in planters that flooded and ultimately had daddy go out and hold it for the girls. It really is a cool sprinkler with balls that when put in to it, pop out the top and daddy had a good time setting records for the longest balenced ball. We've since broken out our other sprinkler and have enjoyed it too... Our porch is finally cleared off and its a nice little retreat in the cooler summer evenings.

ABC Bday!

2009-07-30T15:39:00.000-07:00

At the request of my persistant children, we had to have a birthday party for something a few days back. After some thinking, I had an idea. We'd have a day full of appreciation for the alphabet, everything we'd do would have direct connection. So, we started with abc pancakes...we almost made it to z, and Gabe found he really liked them too. Then, we did alphabet hunt through the house to see if we could find things that started with all the letters of the alphabet. We listened to some fun abc songs while we did it. It was a good time. Then we made sugary cinnamon cookies and had a abc 'cookie walk' with some friends over. They wrote out a letter and when I called the letter they happened to be standing on they could ice a cookie writing their chosen letter with icing. It turned out wonderfully! We even made our mac and cheese noodles into letters at lunch. It was a grand time! The only thing we forgot was the official birthday song... oh well. I don't think the kids noticed.

Ch - ears!

2009-07-27T07:33:00.000-07:00

My sister was able to come by with her kids and our cousin and spend part of the 4th of July weekend with us. It was nice to see her, although the cockroach that she woke up to on Saturday really didn't start the day off too great. That's another story. Bugs. The kids here are getting the 'hairs' off the corn so we could eat it. It was nice to have a group working together for the feast of the day, and I think they had some fun of their very own. The boys found out what 'bullheads' are, why we don't anger the ants, how big cockroaches in the desert get, and what a monsoon is. Quite an eventful time here in just over a 24 hour period. This picture captures the fun that we had while they were here.

Happy Father's Day... way late!

2009-07-27T07:26:00.000-07:00

So - my dad's Father's day present was really late, but I thought it was a cute idea, so I took a picture of it. It's all the grandkids around the world. All the grandkids love grandpa. He's always so patient, soft-spoken, and willing to stop what he's doing to read a book with them. They love that about him. I love my dad and I'm so glad the girls have been able to get to know him as well as they have. We hope to have many more wonderful memories with him!

mmmmm....Frosty

2009-07-26T09:02:00.001-07:00

Hello, This is Brian telling YOU the story Jessica won't.

I took Jessica out for a date (finally) around dinner time. It was a warm evening here in the desert. All the kids were out of sight, out of mind at the babysitters - just the two of us.

I decided to really step up the night and take my sweetheart out to eat. After some (long) discussions trying to find what she wanted to eat, we (she) decided on Wendy's.

A 10 minute drive and we were there. I open the door and walked her inside the establishment for a delicious dinner alone.

We were 2nd in line and decided on what we wanted. Jessica, a salad and .....something. Me, and number 2 with a 5 piece nugget and a large Frosty. Jessica also decided she wanted a Frosty, but she was going to go back up order that later....so she told me.

Most of the family in front of us had sat down and I think the husband was left to order. He had finished, paid and then sat down with his family. We were next.

Jessica orders, followed by me. I pay and the guy starts to get drinks and Frosty's.
BEFORE he comes back, Jessica decides to take a bite of my Frosty when I wasn't looking. When I turned around and noticed her snacking on a SMALL Frosty, I couldn't help it.

The red Frosty cup, not only signaled that it was a small sized Frosty, but oddly enough, looked just like the previous order's small Frosty on the counter that was now.....MIA. What was even more magical, was the fact that the order taker had not yet returned to bring anything from our order.

While my wife knew something was up based on my reaction, it was still unknown to her. I simply told her that I ordered a LARGE Frosty,that was a small and was there when we stepped up to order.

In an instant, she realized what had happened. Her face was beet red when the guy returned to bring MY Frosty, and had a puzzled look on his face when he saw her with a Frosty...so soon.

While she won't blog it......I will.

Mixed Blessings...

2009-07-19T20:51:00.000-07:00

Being in the RS Presidency is a mixed blessing. I had wanted so badly to be a 'part of the action' before I was called to be 2nd counselor. It was a talk with my mom that made me realize that I can still do so much without being in the Presidency. Right after that - a call to RS was offered. Funny how God works.
Its been a year now, and I've learned so much that I don't think I could have learned any other way. Gospel principles that have truly eternal importance as well as physical importance. I can see how the principle of self reliance is so important - so crucial and basic. It is a fundamentally important building block in our lifestyle yet so many overlook it. Tithing, Repentance, the list goes on. I see sisters come to the ward with bright smiles and willing hands receive so much that the Lord has for them, and sisters whose emotional or mental hurt can be physically felt from across the room. This calling has given me some great epiphanies and also has been very trying at times to think "Why can't we all just get along?" or "Doesn't everyone try to not be offended at all these little things?" What harm a cross word, or look, or even a non-intended deed can do to a strong faithful member. It is truly scary and makes me think about where my own faith is built upon- rock or sand?
The hardest thing that I have seen is sisters whose potential and radiance illuminate the room the minute they walk in- this is just the set up. The sisters have no idea that you can look at them and see Divine Potential reaching beyond the skies. They might not be members, or they might be inactive... but they just don't realize their true potential and where true happiness is. You hope and pray for them. You work with them and encourage them to do their best. However, Satan is a very cunning and wicked man who spins a web of deceit and hate in so many hearts. The sister has one particularly personal tough trial. The deception begins where they feel lost and alone and angry at the world. And although they still think "I'm going to be the best I can" You can see their grasp almost truly seeing this- just loosen from the Rod of our Savior and as the winds blow on them, they step away from the Iron Rod. It is painful. Heart breaking. Now they just, "hope".
It's just a smidge of what our Savior sees every day. Children in broken homes, lacking the basic necessities of life. Women who think they are only worth what the media tells them or what some 'man' says they are worth. Good people making very very poor choices that will have eternal consequences. And I cry, and I can only imagine the amount of tears shed by the Lord for each and every sister. He knows them and me at a much more personal level- seeing all we were called to do before this life and it must crush him beyond imagination when we refuse to use the atonement. To use the tools he has given us on this Earth to make it back to him: scriptures, Visiting Teachers, prayer, temples, etc.
I look at my daughters and just hope beyond hope that I'm doing all I can to help them feel their divine inheritance as Daughters of God. I want them to be the Princesses they want to be. I know they can feel Christs' love even more than I can at times. Chloe calms instantly when speaking of Christ. Eva is a little more spastic but she knows Christ brings happiness.
“Our challenges, including those we create by our own decisions, are part of our test in mortality. Let me assure you that your situation is not beyond the reach of our Savior. Through Him, every struggle can be for our experience and our good (see D&C 122:7). Each temptation we overcome is to strengthen us, not destroy us. The Lord will never allow us to suffer beyond what we can endure (see 1 Corinthians 10:13).” - Robert D Hales.
Let me be His Hands on Earth. Let me feel true compassion for my sisters' souls. Let me not abuse my responsibilities I've been given on this Earth and forever remember to Endure to the End.

9 mo checkup

2009-07-16T12:15:00.000-07:00

Gabriel had his well check today. 18.5# and 29 inches long. He's growing more every day!! The kids were at a friends house while we went to the doctor and it was so nice to just have mommy/Baby time. He is quite a fun little tornado when he knows it's just him. Oh -and yesterday after bites of veggies he's refused for a million times, we started clapping for him. He clapped for himself then, too.
I'm having a hard time officially putting Chloe in homeschool, and not putting Eva into preschool. They are two different birds, to put it lightly.

9 months... My little Brute.

2009-07-11T22:43:00.000-07:00

9 months and he's almost walking, crawling is completely mastered by now as well as pulling up on everything. Shaking. Everything. He's my little "Brute" and I love him. He's destructive, picky with food, and clingy - to me right now- and always watching. He laughs with his sisters and teases them with his binki. He crawls to them when they cry and gives them fives, kisses and hugs for the better. He loves to get into dirt, water, and anything he can watch smush under his little palm. He gives daddy the biggest grin of the day where his eyes almost close behind those big long lashes when he sees him come home, and eats all his food when daddy's doing the sound effects of boy-land. He looks at mom as if to say 'nice try' when she attempts similar sounds. He is shy when strangers say "hi'", ducking his head into his shoulder, or the neck groove above my shoulder whichever he can reach first. He loves to swing at the playground, hates the grass and dirt on his feet, and never sits still. He is my little tornado. My little destructor. My little boy!

Sisters!

2009-07-11T22:33:00.000-07:00

I love this picture of our girls at B's work picnic. It was chilly up on the 'mountain top', so they cuddled with each other. At times they cannot stand being in the same room without having drama, and yet here they were together on something. Picture is worth a thousand words. They really doooo love each other, and I have the proof! It makes me think of my own sisters and how we come together sometimes at odd times but we do even though we have a lot of differences. I love my sisters too. A lot.

An addition to Grand Canyon Railways Post....

2009-07-11T22:29:00.000-07:00

A Christmas Carol book... reeeally old.

Richter's at the Grand Canyon. Watch out for the blinding legs of light!! It was pretty cold that day so we didn't mind huddling close.

Brian shows the kids the Valley and at the end of the day what do they say their favorite thing was, "A Squirrel." Go figure! At least we've got pictures for the someday when they really do care. I love the funny things that stick out to them, and their simple perspective on the world around them.

Eva gets in on the Easter Event

2009-07-11T22:24:00.000-07:00

Easter Egg action!! She had such a grand time watching them change colors. She could understand so much more this year it was really fun!

Easter in June... why not?

2009-07-11T22:23:00.000-07:00

We had a very busy Easter season this year, and the girls didn't get a chance to dye eggs. I kept promising them the egg dy-ing and finally in June, it happened. Beginning at 10pm Chloe helped get the eggs into the pot to boil. We had promised her that very day and she fell asleep at 5... when she woke up we couldn't say no. And look at the happiness!!

The next day after Daddy got home from work, we dyed and dyed. It went fast and Gabe shows his involvement here, right before lunging out towards the cups.

We had Easter egg hunts for a week!! It was actually quite fun to do when it's not the normal time of year.

8 months... June

2009-07-11T22:16:00.000-07:00

My attempt at those cute little butt pictures you always see in the Dr's office. I think you're supposed to do this before they can turn around and crawl toward the blinky things though. I was as you can see... not very successful.

Lessons in Camping ...

2009-07-11T22:13:00.000-07:00

Our first fishing event in
Arizona was quite amusing. Not only did Brian label me a high mainetance camper, but we forgot camp wood and flashlights. We had lots of food and lots of blankets though. Also, the girls learned that outhouses are disgusting, smelly and dirty. They much preferred our little pink potty in the privacy of our tent to the smelly fly ridden outhouse. I couldn't blame them much. There's an art to camping that I just lack sometimes. We hope to go more frequently as this did put lots of family time together and help us just 'be' without the pressures of job, callings, bills, cell phones. I also learned a bit of geography. Apparently, when the description was mentioning 17 miles S of Heber, it was talking about Heber, AZ not Heber UT. Who knew? I just assumed because it was a Heber, and a mormon sounding name it was in UT. Well I guess as someone once said, "You know what assuming makes?" Yes, the day before the trip I sure felt like an ars as Brian was explaining to me how this was completely on the opposite side of Arizona no where near UT. So, next time I'll have to pay more attention to the maps. But honestly, this lake was the most bug free, picteresque lake I've seen in a long, long, time. I think the fish were safe to eat, too! That beats out Lake Erie by far, and the Maumee River where we grew up. The girls wanted to get daddy a fishing pole for fathers day so we did. He hadn't been fishing in years, and I've never been fishing. Trying to buy a fishing pole while they all really look the same is very difficult. We hope we picked out a good one and to avoid liability for silly bait, I had the girls pick out a few hooks and bait things. Chleo and Eva went with daddy a day before the trip to get Barbie fishing poles from the other mass store out here. No options really but I'm glad they're happy with Barbie. These even had little butterfly's on the end so Brian could teach them to cast without killing someone. Eva was hoping to catch a Pinkie Pie fish, and Chloe was truly grateful not to have really caught anything. Although she does have quite the fish story to tell about losing her hook. We'll let it slide. She's 5. Fun camping stories' is where it's at for us. Not always reality. We could see the fish although they swam right by our hooks. I couldn't understand why there was such little talking associated with this bonding sport. Very guy-ish. Not for me as we all can presume. Chloe wasn't bothered by long silence, nor was Daddy. We fished until the sun went down and then came back with sunrise. Beautiful!!

The fishing trio. Chloe has found a new love, Eva has found out a new 'unfavorite', and Daddy has rediscovered the art of fishing.

Gabe and I hung out with the snacks.

We were blessed by the presence of some Bald Eagles. Chloe spotted them, and I said, "sure, honey. maybe." And ya know it? She was right!

A Run down.....

2009-06-22T09:56:00.000-07:00

So much has been happening here! Brian has the opportunity to learn all this new 'stuff' at work so he can go to all these places and help them do whatever it is they need to do with this language or something. I know the details are vague, but it's going to be a really neat opportunity. And, with him working on this new language, 5 days of work a week are a temporary blessing for us. Just in time, I tell ya! Tithing, service.... I know that we have been put in the Lord's hands and he is taking care of us as He sees fit. He also is on a break from school. Hoo-ee! I love it!
We've entered, or rather Brian has entered, the world of Netflix. We were trying to catch a movie, and it wasn't anywhere to be found. Lo and behold Netflix had it so we signed up for a free trial. Brian hooked up his computer to the projecter and voila! An in-home movie a-la instantaniously. He's jazzed about this instant thing, so yesterday we watched another movie with the kids. It is kinda funny watching him get excited about things I can actually understand. This technology is very simple. His work and all the languages on computers? Indefinite static is all I seem to hear with a little word 'and then' or something inbetween.
Chloe and Eva have been having lots of fun at the local parks so far. Chloe seems to be making friends every time we go. That's wonderful for me to see. Eva is still infatuated with the swings. Gabe swings in the baby swings right now. That's his little world. Chloe is reading Junie B. Jones and is loving the trouble she gets in to. I still can't believe she reads so well. It is truly a gift of hers. I didn't have to teach her much. Eva wrote her name all by herself the other day. Now we're on to dad, mom, and other names to practice. She's very proud of herself and we're excited to see her excited about doing school time with a smile. In just a few more months she'll be 4. That's crazy. She's got her theme already picked out: Tinkerbell. I think her last birthday was Mariposa, so we're staying with the fairy thing I think. Gabriel is crawling like a monster right now. He alternates between styles of crawling so his legs don't get rug burned as much ( i think). He'll make a break for any electric thing he can touch. Especially Brians things. Brian can't remember the other kids constantly touching his things. I do, but I just smile and remind him that you have to really pick up to keep him out of these things. Poor dad has a lot on his plate. Gabriel is still a toothless wonder. A cranky toothless wonder of late so I'm hoping things start popping out soon! For all our sakes!
The weather has been beautiful and we've got lots planned for the summer. Happy days of Summer!!!

Reporting from Grand Canyon Railways....

2009-05-29T21:17:00.000-07:00

The Christmas Carol train was very interesting and very cool to go to. It had several different cars, each having it's own theme, and we morphed our faces. B entered his email so I'm not sure when I'll get the pics posted. Everyone did one...except C. I know- should I be so disappointed every time? It seems like she just refuses to actually sit back and have a good time every once and a while. It's a hard thing for me to deal with. Someday I hope she opens up and sees the world for how fun it can be and have the time of her life. The 'cast' had carolers, snow machines, a blown up house (that apparently became a disaster with the rains they were having) and we got our picture taken by a lcd window so it looked like a Christmas day feast with snow outside. Amazing!! They showed a sneak peak of the move as a final 'fling thing' and we grabbed 3D glasses and took it all in. It looks amazing, but scary for the girls. They took off their glasses and snuggled close while Marley visited Scrooge. We took an extra step and toured the Grand Canyon- well a small part today. We went to the Yavapai Lookout. It was awesome. Could be better if I could tell dimension (I do have an eye appt coming soon) but I didn't have to look to hard to find highs and lows, etc. The kids were great all day! No meltdowns, and no disappearing acts. We ate at the buffet and there were no spilled drinks or food, or broken dishes. No poopy diapers and no wet pants! It was a great day all around. If only every day could hold such exciting and new adventures to escape to. I think I'm getting spoiled though. The weather was even beautiful... a little chilly. 68 and windy with spits of rain. Poor girls were in t-shirts and shorts (I even forced the cooler clothing because we've been in hot weather). I didn't imagine a day spent at 7000 or so feet. I'll post pics of that some time soon. I heard very little English actually. Interesting day, for sure! We'll have to go back to Williams in the winter for the Polar Express dealy that they put on for the kids.
One good day down, two to go! And that makes two more magnets for our souveniers spot on the fridge!

This weekend holds...

2009-05-28T22:32:00.000-07:00

Ok. So something cool has come up and I thought it was unique enough to post. There is a Christmas Carol movie coming out with Jim Carey....not that I'm a fan of his, but I think the experience will be quite memorable!
http://disney.go.com/disneypictures/christmascaroltraintour/

There's one good thing about Brian being laid off one day a week. Chloe has a birthday party to attend on Saturday and then Brian and I are going to a second chance prom. I have thought about this for a while. I didn't think anyone was like... really dressing or anything. I dunnno! The thoughts of a stay-at-home mom that doesn't really like dress up on my time 'off'. Well- I heard some people talking about their dresses and it's gotten my brain juices going. So, I scoured the city of Kingman for a modest, clean, not too dated Prom Dress, and found.....nothing! Nothing but my exauhstion! Eva went with me and it was fun to have just 'us' time.

Life otherwise is going well, a few surprises here and there, but nothing we can't handle, right!?! I'm just really grateful that we as a family are so blessed to have each other and to have the ability to create memories and raise such wonderful, colorful spirits! I just pay my tithing, serve wherever I can, try to remember to read at least 5 verses in the scriptures each day and whatever comes my way I know that I am up to the task. With Christ I can do ALL things! Brian is so smart and is so talented that I know he'll do good with whatever they give him.

I'm reading a book on how to support my husband by John Bytheway and I've discovered I'm a pretty critical person of my husband. So, last night I apologized to him for the criticism I give him, and then after a of course, ''manly-should I say" comment, I smacked him on the head with the book. *sigh* I've got a lot of work ahead of me. Kinda funny though. But really, I want him to know I love him and I know I could show it so much more. It's just difficult after a long day of correcting and directing children to let the hubby do things 'differently'. I'm a little- well a lot of a control freak at times. He's so patient with me, I know I can learn to be more uplifting and be a strength to our marriage more than a drain.

I've pretty much decided on Chloe's schooling curriculum for the fall. She's going to be homeschooled here and then we'll see half way through the year if she can move ahead on some subjects that I think ( and I know I'm biased) she's ahead of the majority of other kids her age. She's reading at a second grade level, spelling at a first, and doing math on a first grade level, albeit her money counting is giving her a run for her 'money'. She's learning the states, and capitals, and I'm kinda running out of the 'same old' stuff that I know. The kindergarten is half day and I'm not feeling like it's that critical to her life to be at a school right now. She likes to be on her own. That's alright with me for right now. When we move, I might reconsider or if she gets into first grade and can move to second grade next year, then we'll see. She's bummed but I hope it will be a good experience.

Eva has found a website she's absolutely gagga over... www.starfall.com- Apparently it's no new thing, but it's freakin' awesome! It catches her attention, makes her feel good and gets the information to her in so many different ways. Chloe likes the website too so I had to post it.

Gabe is babbling and talking and teething and chowing on everything but his baby food. He's getting a big personality of his own... outgoing and loud. Very surprising, I know. ;0)

Our plants are surviving - I think. I'll just keep watering them and if they flower I'll consider myself a success at all this year with the dirt. Thanks too, to my Gpa for his spearlike thing I got to use.

Whew! that's an update of things. Hopefully I'll be writing more often, but yaknow- motherhood calls!

Celebrating a job well done!

2009-05-19T09:08:00.000-07:00

We took the girls to Mc'D's for an ice cream cone. They enjoyed it thoroughly!! What happiness a .69 cone brings to their faces!!

Daddy just snitched a lick of her cone. She gives such a sweet smile!! Such a petite thing!

This was a pic that made B gasp! "She's growing up!" I just thought "wedding".

Daintiness meets hunger!!

Chloe dance recital

2009-05-19T08:57:00.000-07:00

We were be-a-u-tiful that day!! And even on time!!

The beginning squishes... They danced to Enchanted's 'happy ever after' song. It was so sweet, and I know she worked so hard. She started out very comfortable.

I think she was realizing in this picture she didn't see us. We were front and center though, poor thing.

This is a picture that breaks me and B's heart!! We'll just call this pic 'All Alone'. She gradually got more and more reserved with her actions until she was just kinda motionless. I know she worked so hard for the dance, and that her nerves got the best of her, but I still am so proud of her going up and dancing so well!! The pictures dont do the whole thing justice for either of them. It was tear-jerking for me.

Eva's dance recital

2009-05-19T08:51:00.000-07:00

She danced to the song about cleaning from Enchanted. It was really cute and she did a superb job!! Yea Eva!! She had no obvious nervousness at all. Just jumping right in there! We love this dance class for her.

7 months! and Mother's Day

2009-05-19T08:27:00.000-07:00

No teeth yet, but he sure loves to chomp on everything!!

More chewing, but sitting in the bath unassisted this month!! He loves to splash and chase the abc's around the tub!

Smiling sweetly!! Brian took this (he always does a 'daddy!' smile for him. What a cheese-r , eh?

His first experience with grass. He didn't like it ONE BIT. He sat there throwin his arms around, and wouldn't touch the stuff. He had this 'ew!' look on him the whole time. What a hoot!

He started crawling or belly flopping on Mother's Day!! It was a wonderful gift from him. The girls gave me some beads and twine so we could make necklaces together, and Brian got me the sweetest card. I felt like it was Mother's Day the whole weekend. Saturday we had breakfast on the patio, eggs and the whole bit. Then we went to a shin-dig in the evening out on the prarie... or something like that. I have a web album for those pics. I'll probably blog one or two later. Sunday I had help making sausage patty whole schpeel breakfast again-out on the patio, again. The girls got dressed in clothes that I got to pick out, and after Eva attacked Chloe with a dry erase, the rest of the day was peaceful. Church, weekly phone calls, and sleepy children that went to bed early!! Wow!! I wish this could happen every weekend!!!

We've ARRIVED!

2009-04-20T00:09:00.000-07:00

OOOOOOF! What a weekend! We pulled into our home around 10pm tonight! I've unloaded the car, cleaned out the fridge- as much as I dare to tonight (eeeek!), bathed, brushed, and fed the girls, and am now going to bath and bed myself!! 2,000 is a looooong drive in case you wondered.
I'd love to tell you the wonderful incidents that occured along the way, but I've not completely gotten over them enough to blog them..... It just seemed that something was against us the whole trip! Things went well enough, but wow! -- when we really tried to do officially anything, everything happened. I'll gather my thoughts clearly at a later time, I think.
It was a wonderful thing to hear the kids say how happy they were to be back here with the infamous ''merdaid bed'', and other things. We are so blessed. I'm glad to be living in a home that's already put together, no assembly required. lol....
We missed church today and I know I'll feel the stress mounting incredibly quicker this week. Always seems to happen like that. Bummer. Brian took a hit again with school because of the intense work and driving and things he's been involved with the last week. I feel for him. I hope he'll get over these last few weeks quickly. Goodnight/Goodmorning! I'm going to r.e.l.a.x.!! (really???)

Coming Home

2009-04-17T09:28:00.000-07:00

"Home is where the heart is".... as the saying goes, but I'm of the opinion that it must be warm and sunny too. I have been visiting the 'home' where I grew up, and raised my family for the first few years, and have disappointingly felt still so detached from things when I come back. Stores opened are now closed, the ward is 1/2 changed... things are just different. I know it's supposed to be that way but it's always an 'oh. ya' moment for me. It hasn't helped that I've been running myself totally insanely ragged, and it's been gray and cold.. and rainy-even snowy at times here. Today-the day we've planned on leaving the sun comes out, the grass has now turned a pretty spring green and the plants have budding flowers while others are beautifully blossoming. COMMON! Throw me a friggin' bone!!

Our kids have been hopping back and forth between Grandma's and Nana's for 3 weeks now and have questioned me, "Where's Home?" that I refer to every now and again. I know we've long moved out of the Ohio lands, and we're not planting deep deep deep roots in Kingman, so it's been hard to feel really at 'home' anywhere at the moment. Looking at the economical things, some people are losing their homes that you know are great wonderful people. Some people are living out of their cars... that's their home! We're redoing our old home here, to rent out as some one else's home. We're renting in Arizona, and I think it will remain that way for quite some time.

"Home is where we're sleeping tonight," I told my girls. I know some people might have a much more philisophical answer, but I'm really getting down to basics right now.

How grateful I am that I have a loving family near and far that go out of their way to make me feel at home wherever I may be. Thanks for everything everyone has done to help us as a family have wondeful memories of the Ohio. I'm grateful for the memories we're creating in our little Kingman town and am totally psyched for the happy memories to come. I'm coming home to a home where our hearts are, our lives are, and for right now where our future lies.

And that's.... priceless.

muy importante

2009-03-26T05:40:00.000-07:00

FOCA Would Wipe Away Every Restriction on Abortion Nationwide

Bans on Partial Birth Abortion

Requirements that women be given information about the risks of getting an abortion
Only licensed physicians can perform abortions
Parents must be informed and give consent to their minor daughter's abortion

FOCA would erase these laws and prevent states from enacting similar protective measures in the future.
- information taken from the website

If I think about Chloe and Eva's choice, I love them and want to give them the freedom to choose lots of things but dang.... not like that. I don't want them making some stupid choice that winds up with them getting prego on ''accident'' and then making another stupid choice to go to some crazy "dr. abortion" and then having something horrible happen to them. I don't think I've heard of one person that has had an abortion and hasn't had some serious mental/emotional effects (and therefore physical manifestations) from the trauma of abortion. The Lord has given us a few commandments about this "Love One Another" "Obey thy Father and Mother" "Thou Shalt Not Kill" . Yes I believe this God-given creation has a spirit from the moment the heart starts beating. I believe that there are millions of women out there, perfectly 'qualified'-if you will, to be a parent yet unable to conceive for reasons beyond their control. I know there are lots of mothers out there whose babies might be better off in some of these aforementioned mother's hands-but they are kept for pride. I know there are babies being born and buried or thrown into trash cans, or even abandoned to die by a medical professional. I personally think these people will stand blameless before the judgement bar of God and boy- I don't even want to be near them or know what he will do. God loves little children... I wouldn't anger this guy. If you agree with true freedom to live, above all else- make sure you at least give this a good look.

a change of pace

2009-03-20T21:25:00.001-07:00

I've really disappeared, haven't I? Well, I'm not done yet. Life is so incredibly busy for me lately, that I have had no energy left to blog... I know... I said it. But, family comes first and boy have we been neeedy lately!! I sure love them all though! Good night!!

a lost blog - from 2/16/09

2009-03-05T08:43:00.000-08:00

We broke out the exersaucer a few weeks ago.. here are the pics from that day. The girls say little G does ballet because his toes barely touch the bottom. He loves to be in here... usually while I'm exercising, I put him here.
Oh Eva!! Do we ever feel like we're having a bad day? Eva had a bad day here all the way until bedtime. If you notice the PJ's, they are on sideways... she spent a good while trying to get it to work like this... while I grabbed the camera. Brian was trying hard not to laugh as he helped her out of this predicament. I wish I could fit my leg into the arm of my clothes and not tell the difference!

My Joys

2009-03-05T08:39:00.000-08:00

My son, Little G- I can stay at home and be there for him! He's rolling side to side, grabbing toes, and definitely showing off his littlest boy personality!

My daughter E's knack at being a mom, do you like how the purse takes priority over the baby? She's always been a baby fanatic, and shows this great strength with little G frequently: singing songs, rocking him, massaging him, feeding him bottles and baby food-very well actually!

I'm so glad I get to spend time with this family. I'm so thankful that they are patient with me, love me, and that we can be together forever!

Ode to Hip Hop!

2009-02-16T10:04:00.000-08:00

Hubby got me an Anniversary gift early... I did request this... Hip Hop Abs with Shawn T... I've been doing the exercises almost every day, and I'm proud to say I'm looking better and better! I fit into my prepregnancy skirt yesterday... even a week before would have been unthinkable. Woohoo! Tilt, Tuck, Tighten, WOO! And on Valentine's day, we actually worked out to this with a borrowed projector, and some virgin margarita's. I did my first push-up ever!! This is really a big accomplishment for me. I can do several in a row now!

The Three Wise-Children

2009-02-16T09:48:00.000-08:00

Chloe 4 Eva 3 and Gabe 4 months. He's starting to overwhelm them on the chair, or anywhere now. Growing and growing!

Love One Another

2009-02-16T09:45:00.000-08:00

I couldn't tell if Chloe was burying her head into Eva's head. After this... Eva refused to pose again...

So, we did a side by side shot... not so pushy-looking... Maybe.

Daddy was helping Eva review her abc's and spelling. She and her snotty, dripping nose were attacking him. 2 against 1... not fair!

We were blessed to have some little Mary's come to our house Friday night, riding their horses. We just thought this was pretty cute. They held act for about 1/2 hour.

Here, too? I think I was tagged....

2009-02-12T21:22:00.000-08:00

I have no idea how I can tell I was tagged.. but my facebook told me so... so I'll do this one..
1. WAS YOUR FIRST PREGNANCY PLANNED? Planned. Oh yes. I even stood on my head. Yes, I bet you never knew this, but Brian brings it up all the time. He says that's what did it.. lol. I was young... what else can I say?

2 .WERE YOU MARRIED AT THE TIME? Only for a few months.

3. WHAT WAS YOUR REACTION? I was like... um.. yeah! okay. yes. we can do this. I have a little alien in me now.. ok.

4. WAS ABORTION AN OPTION FOR YOU? Ummm... I had lots of options before abortion is even considered... like all the stuff leading up to it?

5. HOW OLD WERE YOU? 20 when she was born... dang I WAS young.

6. HOW DID YOU FIND OUT YOU WERE PREGNANT? went to the doctor for ab pain and they took blood tests... ta da!

7. WHO DID YOU TELL FIRST? We found out together because of blood tests results. the home tests always were negative.. yes.. and he called his whole family in the five minute drive we were apart. He felt like THE MAN.

8. DID YOU WANT TO FIND OUT THE SEX? Yes

9. DUE DATE? March 21st? I really don't know. They gave me a lot.

10. DID YOU HAVE MORNING SICKNESS? Oh yes! I lost 30 lbs... partly sickness partly broke and starving during this time and our AZ caseworker was a real 'all star' and spent almost the whole time in AZ wondering what he could do for us.

11. WHAT DID YOU CRAVE? What few things I could eat without heartburn. I distinctly remember chocolate peanut butter cookies... mm.

12. WHO/WHAT IRRITATED YOU THE MOST? The frequent bathroom trips

13. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST CHILD'S SEX? Diva

14. DID YOU WISH YOU HAD THE OPPOSITE SEX OF WHAT YOU WERE GETTING? Well, at this point I didn't know what I would do with girls. I've figured it out by now, I think.

15. HOW MANY POUNDS DID YOU GAIN THROUGHOUT THE PREGNANCY? 70lbs- i know. let's move on...

16. DID YOU HAVE A BABY SHOWER? My in-laws held one for me, I think

17. WAS IT A SURPRISE OR DID YOU KNOW? The shower? I knew.

18. DID YOU HAVE ANY COMPLICATIONS DURING YOUR PREGNANCY? no, but I learned something about me that I never couldv'e learned otherwise.

19. WHERE DID YOU GIVE BIRTH? Bay Park Community Hospital

20. HOW MANY HOURS WERE YOU IN LABOR? 8am water broke... 4pm she popped out

21. WHO DROVE YOU TO THE HOSPITAL? Brian...very quickly

22. WHO WATCHED YOU GIVE BIRTH? my hubby- man is he good

23. WAS IT NATURAL OR C-SECTION? natural

24. DID YOU TAKE MEDICINE TO EASE THE PAIN? heck ya. men are that they might have joy- not pain!

25. HOW MUCH DID YOUR CHILD WEIGH? 8lbs 6oz

26. WHEN WAS YOUR CHILD ACTUALLY BORN? 4pm ( I saw 405 but whatever..I was on good epidural drugs)

27. WHAT DID YOU NAME HIM/HER? Chloe Leigh

28. HOW OLD IS YOUR FIRST BORN TODAY? turns 5 next month

Little G at 4 mo!

2009-02-12T11:58:00.001-08:00

Here are the stats of my little homie G.... at his 4 mo checkup:

13 lbs
23 3/4 inches long
Peach fuzzy hair everywhere except the back of his neck, where the longer blond hairs poke over his shirt collars.

I was so happy to hear that he is gaining all this weight. Three weeks prior we were in the hospital and he was just a tad over 10lbs. It's amazing what happens when they are actually eating (I've pretty much stopped nursing because he was getting really really really dehydrated from not getting enough. I tried, though- I really did!, so no I shoulda thoughts about this decision. )
His favorite things are looking at the girls playing the Wii (they're very animated) and snuggling with his mama. (insert warm fuzzy here) He loves to be spoken to by the other man in the house, of course, but daddy's attention is a lot harder to ascertain for any amount of time than moms.
He's got a routine down... 130, 430, 630am feedings and then every few hours throughout the day. We've started cereal, and he's tried lots of foods. I think his favorites are banana's and sweet potatoes. We'll start the green veggies and try apples again next week.
The girls love it when they can give him a spoonful or two of food. They love to hold him and do rhyme's with him, tuck him in... anything to do to play mommie for a moment. In a minute or two, however, they are more than ready to give me back the reigns as mother of the house.
Daddy loves to make him laugh, and help him to grow up - while I love to cuddle and snuggle him to keep him my baby boy as long as he'll let me.
I am so happy we're a happy and mostly functional family!!

Finding Jesus, and patience!

2009-02-12T11:47:00.000-08:00

#1 I had to post this to remember this funny moment in time:

My oldest daughter was overheard yesterday evening exclaiming,
"Oh! I found Jesus! I've been looking for him all day!"

She had a picture of Jesus given to her at church from a teacher and had apparently 'lost' it and had been looking for it all day long. She had 'much rejoicing' when she found Him.

I just thought that was noteworthy... my daughter found Jesus yesterday.

#2 And my younger daughter after having an FHE lesson about praying and how we can pray, who we pray to, etc., said a heartfelt prayer afterward, blessing lots and thanking lots. In the middle of the prayer somewhere she decides to say- (can't imagine where she got this phrase from), "And please bless Jesus, and help Him to have patience." Well, I look at it positively: a. she's listening to my prayers and b. she really feels like Jesus is a person just like us. Maybe He could use blessings.. I'd never thought of that before.

Children are life's best teachers, I think. I love them for their sweet and pure views of life. I wish I could pretend that life was like that, sometimes... but then again I've worked hard on not being the stereotypical naive blonde small town girl. Sometimes it shows better than others!

Pre-Marriage...

2009-02-08T21:56:00.001-08:00

B wore his first shirt and tie here.... And pants that weren't falling off *grin*.... My dad helped him tie his tie... My mom made dinner for us, and we danced our hearts content that night!

This was my Junior Prom dress. I helped make it... that's all i really remember here.

My Senior Prom... don't remember this one either.. hmmm... I just had gotten my widom teeth pulled and tonsils out so B had to feed me drugs, bananas, and we brought a soup because I couldn't eat the dinner we paid for.. Ya, I admit... I don't remember much at all.

6 Years!!

2009-02-08T21:41:00.000-08:00

Happy Anniversary to Us!
I still remember feeling like I was about to pass out walking down the halls of our church getting ready to do a small but purposeful walk across the front of the chapel to my then fiance Brian where we concreted our love and devotion for each other. I remember my father pulling me along faster as I tried so desperately for that walk down the isle that i was told, "would not happen'', the shock of B's family members from the fastest wedding they had ever attended in their life, my cheeks hurting from smiling so bad and yet my head whirling because I had never pictured getting married in the chapel. It was always the temple. The Mesa temple.... we did eventually get sealed in the Columbus temple about a year later. My picture here captures my head over heels happiness and 'la la la' attitude. We were so young, so.... young. Our bishop gave us a 1 in 10 chance of surviving five years, if I remember correctly. That's thinking positive, right?
Well, After 6 years, we've been through a lot. We've changed a lot. And, B is my wonderfully supportive hubby! Oh boy, do I love him! I think we've come to a lull- a positive one- in our marriage and I LOVE IT! After moving, um... 8 times I think?, in the 6 years, having 3 kids, changing jobs a lot, starting a business, leaving that business I worked so hard for behind in Ohio, and growing together in a way we would have never done in Ohio, we are not even done yet! There's so much more to come, and it's exciting to me. The first year? It took forever. I realized B was a person... socks wedged in the bed covers, computers and computers, chewing where I could 'suddenly' hear him, and oh ya... realizing that boys really do spend a lot of time in the bathroom (hence the jokes). I was a little frightened about what was to come. The odds were against us, and we've CONQUERED! Now I love all the little things that make B, B! What 's better is that he loves me for all my faults, quirks and stuff. I had convinced him before we got married that I was a princess and that "princesses don't poo" Luck would have it that I ended up getting food poisoning right after we got married. That 'cute' lie I said was abruptly put to an end. Then, pregnancy... he still loves me after all that! In fact, he's loved me through it all!
I gave him a storybook of our love today. He still gives me the chills, butterflies, whatever you call it... he's GOT ME! I'm so glad we've been able to make our marriage finer with time. That's the art, right? Like fine wine. I'm so excited for that day when we can try to chase each other around with our walkers someday! How fun! For all eternity, I love him! *sniff*
Funny things we've gone through:
#1 I got sick once and clogged every drain we had in our house while peeing on his foot (this is separate from the food poisoning)
#2 We drove across country with all we owned. I can see it clearly: Brian's hand oustide the window rain or shine December 21st helping to hold our mattress to the Ford Taurus (tied down with a couple straps). We had walkie talkies to communicate so we could pull over to readjust the mattress... again, and again, and again. I was 6 mo. pregnant crammed into our 2 dr. Honda Civic.
#3 Our honeymoon was at a resort. We were given a cabin to stay in for a couple nights I think. I said, "Wow! Look how big this is. We should have a party!" We spent the entire honeymoon driving to and from my moms... I cannot remember why.
#4 Hearing Brian say, "Whose poop is this in the toilet?" and when no confessions were made, having me say, "If it's like this, it's Chloe's and if it's like this, it's Eva's". You know your a mom when.... moment.
#5 I made him ask me to marry him... 3 times. I lost the engagement ring he worked hard to earn. Each time was meant to be more romantic or memorable... only to have it completely the opposite. The third time he asked me was at Don Pablo's while a 21 year old was being sung to while women were throwing tampons around. One landed on the table while he was preparing for 'the question'. Ya.
#6 Pre-marriage: mooning, kissing, walking, dancing, proms
#7 Brian was angry, reversed over my parents big rock in the driveway specifically placed so that drivers could avoid danger... who could miss a big rock? Brian. The gas tank ripped open and leaked out the tank of gas... he got so angry he kicked the 'dumb' rock, and therefore fracturing his ankle where he had to wear a walking cast... all in front of my parents. I bet they were impressed.
*8 Our car was written on with lipstick that showed up "Just Married!" Anytime it rained, people would look, smile and honk! We would be wearing pajamas, jeans... I wonder if they wondered if we really had 'just' gotten married.
Ahh.... time is moving on and B is waiting for me. I'm gone!

Oooo! Mom! Yoga!

2009-01-26T22:05:00.000-08:00

www.Mommyoga.com is something my sis-in-law created a few years ago. She has a pregnancy yoga video that I followed, with my girls... and she sent this to me in congrats for Gabriel.. A baby and mom yoga video where you do yoga with your baby. The girls caught sight of the look of the DVD and knew it was Auntie A's yoga. Chloe begged to stay up to do yoga before bedtime and 'calm down'. As soon as they saw the baby was needed... they ran to their room and grabbed their 'babies' to do yoga with. Chloe sat through the first 40 min or so following closely to what Auntie A was teaching. I appreciate the healthy influence she has had on my children. I loved the DVD too!
It's a good reminder to us of Ohio's beauty, as well! We were just starting this in this pic.

Yum, Yum Cereal

2009-01-26T22:04:00.000-08:00

Brian's first time feeding our little G cereal... He eats and eats and eats!
He likes his dad... and his food, too!
These were his first official bites of rice cereal.. two days ago.

Goodbye Ms. Meg!

2009-01-26T21:45:00.000-08:00

The other day was officially the last time the kid-o's will see Ms. Meg and her horses....

Chloe was afraid after not being around them for a while, but Eva-- completely verbal and not afraid. I think this was a great experience to have someone as kind as Meg invite them to be a part of her and her 'horse' families life. I know I'll miss having the familiarity of horses around the kids. Maybe someday we'll get horse riding lessons. That would make me happy.

Richters on Wheels!

2009-01-26T21:22:00.000-08:00

Eva has learned to ride her bike Santa has given her... he is the bike giver!
Chloe fell on her 'cushy tushy' and still kept going!! What a trooper!

Gabe kept trying to get out of the stroller. He's going to be a handful when he gets mobile, for sure!

2009-01-21T20:46:00.000-08:00

Looking over all these gadgets to add to the blog, I was thinking about the purpose of every one I saw. Some, just reflection other laughing, etc. You probably are all familiar with the 'gadgets' if you blog. I found some nice ones, and being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, I've felt pulls at my heart for each of these I've selected at the side. Families, past and present, future children, being personally and financially prepared.... provident living.org is an awesome sight where you can learn to be savvy in 6 basic areas of life. It's really something! B and I are working on bringing down debt right now. We'll see how this goes.
I am so impressed to say, that families are sooo crucial. Having Little G in the hospital last week, I carried him in to the ER and handed him over to strangers who knew nothing more about him than what they saw. I thought to myself, "Be careful. Be wise. He is my everything!" How often does our Heavenly Father feel the same way when he hands us an infant 20 inches long, 8lb or so and all we know about the infant is what we see right there? I'm sure he says each time to us, "Oh (Jessica), be careful, be wise... this child is priceless to me." And if something goes wrong, how often must he be thinking, "Oh (Little G) I'm so sorry. I wish there was another way."
Our lesson in RS on Sunday was about Sealing, and the Sealing Power restored to the earth in Kirtland OH.... It was very touching and I wish I could've just sat and listened for ever! We preserve things we care about... waxing cars, protecting pictures, sealing and preserving food, painting houses and materials with material to make it last. It made me self-analyze. Do I show my family that they are THE most important things to me? Sealing is a noun and a verb I think. If I just cruise on through life and think 'ah, ya... we're sealed,' it assures nothing. I have to endure, love, serve and sacrifice to be sealed and deserve that blessing. They are worth the stretch marks, the bags under the eyes, the ever expanding waistline (caused not only by child bearing but by stress munching) followed by the frumpy 'I forgot to do my hair today' hair, the pinches in the budget because I don't get a paycheck for being at home... all those things make me a MOM. Brian's love is worth the meal fixing, house cleaning, redundantly repeating redundantly, resetting the toilet seat, dealing with 'his' kids when they act up...all that makes me his WIFE. I hope I show my love for them each day. I hope they don't have to ever think twice about my desire to be a mom and wife. I love them. I'll love them more than just 'till death do us part. I'll love them forever.

One little, two little Three Little Richters...

2009-01-21T19:36:00.000-08:00

Middle E, born 10/29/05

Big Sis C, born 3/29/04

Little G, born 10/7/08

I've been thinking about how they all look alike, and I just thought I would post these pics of our kids...
Upshot of Baby G for all those not 'in' on the scoop, is that he's miraculously better. We haven't and the doctors didn't find any infections, even though they tested everything in the world on this poor guy. He just spent 4 days with a very high fever,and then two more days with a low fever after coming home. Now, he's just getting used to not being held all the time (sigh). He got rather spoiled in the hospital, I admit. What precious spirits in this world! They don't look identical, but you can tell they have some relation.... I might even put up a pic of Brian as a baby soon...

A trip to the hospital KRMC

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

Here our little G is with his IV in his hand, and his Rockstar binky... he had a fever around 102.5 in this pic. Stay tuned for updates with his cultures. The poor guy went through so much testing Mon morning when I took him in with 103 somethin' fever. They did urine, blood cultures, xrays and a lumbar puncture. I could hold him through most of it, but they made me stand outside for the xray and for the lumbar puncture I withdrew myself for fear of attacking someone who was causing my son pain... mothers growly bear instincts were there indeed. I was jumping around and pacing, pacing, pacing in the family room they had off the ER hallway trying to use some of my energy up before I just unleashed hades or broke down in a hysterical sob. I found it to be very helpful!

Here daddy is feeding the fussy baby who now, will not nurse at all (not good for me or our budget, but I'm still trying) He's just not satisfied as fast as he was with these little bottles. (dagnab-it) The girls came to visit me yesterday and B got off of work early for... safety precautions. I definitely did not need him in the Las Vegas hospital too, so I'm glad someone found the gases and fixed them right up.

2009-01-14T19:51:00.000-08:00

Eva's first day in sunbeams. We start church at 1pm now so she was really tired. She picks out her outfits now, too.

This was Chloe's drawing of Heaven. There's our family all across the top, then two angels with circles representing the light coming from them. both girls apparently. then there's GEZAZ (jesus) who is standing on steps covered on the top by a cloud. The three on the bottom are (left to right: Joseph, Noah, and Mary- wearing a dress and a baby in her belly.) Under this she wrote HVN- heaven. What a precious daughter of God! Chloe is wearing her favorite dress (decided from her dad's decision that this was his favorite dress on her) and she is now a CTR 5.

This is Gabe's first temp he had... and at the time I thought he's sleep it off. This was how he fell asleep after we had gotten exaughsted form holding him all day, very still, with little getting done elsewhere in the house. Reminds me of a pic when Chloe was really sick too.,..and she was holding her Jeffrey Giraffe that her A Krista had gotten her for Christmas. He is obviously not even in Nursey yet.... What cute chunky legs though! (The race car blankie that Ms. kim had made for him)

Dual Duty

2009-01-14T19:40:00.000-08:00

somehow the washing machine entertains more than just my cat... they had their faces pressed up to the window and wow-ing... hahaha. the simple things in life.

patty-cake sister!

2009-01-14T19:38:00.000-08:00

Here's E doing patty cake with little G... that's his fav song right now

Where Have all the Dresses Gone?

2009-01-02T22:50:00.000-08:00

The girls were sooo excited when we opened up a package from my mom the other night. It was just about bed time and I used it to bribe the girls to clean the room up. (win for me) The dresses were made just for them, and came with a white turtleneck to help keep my girls warm and toasty. And what did they do as soon as they emptied out the box and put the dresses on? Twirl, of course! You can see from Eva's face that this was not the first twirl-- she's getting a bit dizzy. Mom sewed these dresses much by hand (go, Mom- go, Mom) and it looks spectacularly perfect! They got some other fun goodies too. We've eaten, read, and played with all the fun stuff in it plenty of times since we've opened the box. Chloe's favorite thing is the dress and the Nutcracker story, and Eva's favorite thing is the dress and the bear books.
These dresses couldn't have come at a better time. I'd just spent an entire day in Las Vegas looking for a nice, simple long dress that wasn't ridiculously priced. I found a lot of shorter skirts, longer really fancy frilly skirts, and short sleeve dresses. This outfit is warm and flexible... Great pick, mom! Where does anyone go to find the nice dresses for their girls anymore? I can't say I'm going to sew them although I'm awfully tempted!

A History of Merry Christmas's Indeed!

2008-12-26T22:27:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a merry Christmas, because it is a wonderful thing! I think Christmas's just keep getting better and better now that I'm on my own.
The first Christmas I felt the worst, ever! Sooo guilty, as my new hubby and I were expecting a baby in 3 months, and having recently moved only what our cars could carry, strapped our mattress on our Ford Taurus, and drove back from Phoenix, to Ohio. We kinda jumped in to B's parents house (surprise!) on Christmas Eve or so. We had no money, no gifts, no nothing! Our families somehow made up all this stuff to get for us, and we were given sooooo much. I still feel guilty about that Christmas. We were just glad to be back with family where we weren't in a danger of losing the roof over our heads. That was the last Christmas we had with B's Aunt Patt, or PNana we called her because she was pretty much like his mom's other half. She was battling cancer, and her health had recently been declining in large jumps. I remember Christmas was the best time of the year for her. She started doing crafts and things around July. I miss her Christmas joy, every year. No matter how I try to recreate it, it lacks a lot. My favorite thing fromo this Christmas was the skill I learned through these trials-- praying with a sincere heart and real intent. Prayers have never been just a prayer to me ever again. I needed the Lord a lot that year.
The second Christmas was a bit still and tense as the wonderfully mentioned PNana had just passed away, and I had not passed my massage boards...by 2 points. Not passed meant I got a 79 instead of an 81. *sigh still* Anyways, it was an exciting Christmas all at the same time because it was Chloe's first. She definitely loved it... being around 9mo. old. Brian and I had just moved into our own house in downtown Rossford, Ohio. A real fixer upper... lots of stories about that some other time. I think my favorite thing that I got that year... was Victoria Secret slippers and some good smelling perfume (to bring me back from sluggish mom to hot and comfy mom!) I learned this year that I have to tell Brian what to get me.... not just wait and hope for the magical things to appear under the tree. It was memorable for yet another reason--my brother and sisters were all there. It was really fun having everyone together, but it was definitely a different dynamic with everyone's spouses and kids around and one on the way.
The third Christmas was still amazing, because I was balancing life with a new baby- E Rose was almost two months old, and I was adjusting to having two kids. It took a while. Christmas was still a little somber but not too bad. I don't remember anything much except my favorite gift that year was a CD player for the kitchen.. I love it still!! Was it this Christmas or the next?? The Christmas picture was taken when I had gotten everyone ready but myself... a very new mom thing to do so I looked rather hustled and very plain in the pictures that we sent out that year. This was a year I chanced it and bought B one of those DVD burners.
The fourth Christmas Eva had turned one, and I was determined to bring the Christmas spirit into the house by listening to the Christmas music channel in Ohio called the RIVER 101.5, which played holiday music the day of Thanksgiving all the way to Christmas... alllll day long. Eva and Chloe were pooped by the time we celbrated anywhere else that day, and the weather was 60 something and raining. Odd for Ohio at that time of year. My favorite gift that year was a NY and Co gift card - and a cd which had the song, Ride a Cowboy on it. Good song. Loved it! I was able to go to a Glenn Beck show before Christmas, and it made the season very memorable and left an imprint on my soul about the hope of redemption Christ gave us. We celebrated at our house, Brians and my moms for the last time.
The last Christmas we had was fun, but chaotic with life in a new city, state, and environment. Some presents could be opened early and others on the phone, and I was to remember which ones. That terrified me.... My favorite thing was the apron I received... right up there with the little Buddha guys! But I really appreciated going at a slower pace, and not worrying about appearences that day. It was wonderful to not stress about kids, naps, even time!
This Christmas was fun because B's parents were out here, and my Gpop was able to make it out here. It was super fun! My favorite thing was having all the family together while I was working in the background. I love that though. My favorite thing this year was a KitchenAid. I also received an accesory to that now. I imagine it will last me for a good 30 years or so.
That's all the Christmas's until now -- I think they are really getting better and better! Next year Gabriel will be one and it will be amazingly fun! Chloe is getting sooo grown up, wanting girl things now and Eva is following suit.

All I Want for Christmas...

2008-12-21T20:36:00.001-08:00

OK. All I wanted for Christmas was:

a much appreciated kitchenaid mixer... check
my two beloved sconces...check
family together...check
baby healthy... forgetting staph, check!
kids healthy... hmmm, we'll have to come back later on this one
happy hubby... he thinks there's more to this question than there is, wink wink - oh my!
a nice place to live...check
freedom to worship...check
a smart president...hmmmm, we'll have to come back when the second coming comes
working cars... check
debt free life....*sigh*, I'll have to.... work... on this one :0)
freedom to worship as I please... for the moment, check
snow...check
a deeper love for the sisters in my ward...check, check!
a positive visiting teaching report...hmmmm.... there's always room for new years resolutions!
a better understanding of Joseph Smith....check
a stronger testimony...check, check!

what more can I ask for? I know there's lots more material things, but taking a step back- things have been really good spiritually for me this year. I can't wait to see what next year brings!

Winter Wonderland!

2008-12-17T22:26:00.001-08:00

Today it snowed, and snowed, and snowed!! And it's still snowing, and is estimated to continue until tomorrow evening! It's been looming around 30-35 degrees, so there's quite the mixture all over, but here were the first of the snow pictures from this morning. After not even 5 min Eva came back inside and said, "Mom, my hands are cold, and I don't really like that." What a desert bloomer! Here I love how the snow just sat on her angelic but crazy curly hair. Yes, Auntie S she now fits that pink coat and quite well, too!

Here Eva was pushing slush off of the car ... so why were her hands cold? This girl hardly keeps her coat on, her sweater on, or a hat on! I did have to take a trip to Bullhead today to buy some gloves and hats for the kidos. I have nooo idea where they would be if I haven't run into them by now. So, we got a clearence special today! And why is there slush on this car when we have a 2 car garage? It's a pretty common thing out here to use the garage for storage because there are no basements (well, few and far between). My goal is to get one car in.... just waiting on the trash removal by a certain someone I love so very very much... wink, wink. Not like he has anything more pressing on his time... lol.

Chloe is showing off her wonderfully pink jammies, and her unzipped jacket with the most in style pink cowgirl boots out there. Quite the combination, but it was put together quickly for fear of the snow melting! no, no hat or gloves either here, moms.... I know, I know.

Here we are, after the drive the long long drive and after I saw my first snowplows in 2 years! We started with a snowman, but soon a snow ball fight broke out. I have never had one before.. it was really really fun ( of course it is with no ice balls and against toddlers and a hubby)! Notice, mothers, the hats and mittens... We have no snowpants though, a little extreme for desert snow.

Snow in the desert caused today:
Schools to let out at 145pm (early)
Route 93 to close *above Kingman all the way to Las Vegas
Las Vegas flights to cancel and delay (can you imagine the back up with all the flights that leave every hour?)
Slush to soak in our shoes, Fingers and toes to freeze, and wetness that encompasses all that touches the snow.
Ground cover (1.5 in or so I think)
A dirty, muddy, mess! BUT!- it's beautiful and makes me feel even more at home with Kingman. B said this only happens every 20 years or so. Really? How enlightening! He's also heard that the Autozone here gets only 12 ice scrapers a year.... for a city 30 miles wide that's really nothing! There's no sleds at WalMart that I recall, or snow suits... for Heaven's Sakes they have 1/2 the store with short sleeves still! Amen to emergency prepardness!!

Raising Engineers

2008-12-10T21:17:00.000-08:00

Ok. I was raised by an engineer (dad), married an engineer (b) and have somehow spawned an engineer daughter (chloe). EEEK! It is a complication only because my brain is sooo the opposite. I cant even tell you how many hours my dad would spend trying to get me to learn how things worked... the plant he works at, etc.. Even math is a horrible subject for me. So linear, so unfriendly. Don't misundestand. I love Chloe lots and lots and lots, but I can't follow that side of the road. However, I can certainly recognize it.

Background to this story- Chloe teethed on floppy disks, cds and watched her daddy do computer stuff for hours and hours. She can recognize the hard drive, mouse, web address bar, etc.. She helps B take apart cpu's and laptops and put them back together. She understands a lot, needles to say due to her upbringing. *smile* So, what happened this morning was none other than a continuation of it, but it somehow surprised Brian, upset him, and made him proud all at the same time.

Here goes:
Im half conscious and hear:
*knock knock knock*
me: who is it?
Chloe: Eva, NO! Dont do it!"
Eva: Yes.
*whack followed by the sound of my second daughter letting out a piercing scream*
Me: GIRLS!
*no answer*
Me: BRIAN! Something is going on out there! Chloe just hit Eva!
( To my defense for not doing something, I was feeding Gabe at the time)

As Brian ushered the girls back to their room to finish sleeping for the night (for a second time), I hear: sudden Chloe screaming
I see: Bran return to our room with his laptop, writing tablet, mouse and keyboard.
Me: Should I ask what happened?

What happened was Chloe, not feeling well and not able to sleep, wanted to watch a movie in her room like I do when I'm not feeling well. So, she took Brians laptop from the kitchen-all hooked up and turned off- and relocated the whole schpeal into her room. Apparently, she had done all this in desire of watching a Jesus movie. Ironic. But, it was too scratched and wouldn't play (so she had it turned on, logged in, and inserted CDs into the DVD ROM), and had put in Pocahontas to watch it instead when Eva went to tattle on her. Interesting.

What's hilarious about this? I can hardly be very angry. She's doing what comes to her naturally, what makes sense, and fixing her own problems. What's bad about that in and of itself? She's being just like her daddy. And he, when he was little was just like this: taking apart his moms computer while she was at work. His defense to that? I was not 4. I was 12. And I'm stilll smiling because what does this event tell me? My daughter pays excellent attention when she wants, and she knows Jesus brings her mind and body peace when she listens to stories or music about him. What's not to be proud about?

After recounting the tale to me Brian says, "I bet that will make the blog, won't it?"

Yes.... it did. *smile*

2 Months

2008-12-10T21:08:00.001-08:00

10 1/2 lbs, 23 in, Sleeps 6-8 hours at night, up at 6am no matter what, Lifting head and chest, Flips from stomach to back, Smiles, Coo's, Fights sleeping, Gassy, gassy, gassy! Most alert - mid morning/early afternoon. Belly sleeper.

What a week!

2008-12-10T20:45:00.000-08:00

After church, Dec 7th - Little G is two months. My dad came out for his blessing! (Thanks, again Dad) Outdoor pictures were a no because it was sooo cold that day, and very gloomy. I think it was raining that whole night. Brrrr.

The girls gave Grandpa some great looks while he was here! This is Chloe's christmas dress for this year. Eva doesn't really have one this year... unless I missed something. I think I'm losing my mind these days sometimes.

Four generations of righeous men! Four stripling warriors in the fight for truth and righteousness! My grandpop, My hubby holding Little G, and my dad. What great guys! WOW!

A pic of B and dad with little G. He was not very happy for some of these pics. So it goes infant life though...
Relief Society Dinner---
My life has been whirly swirly for the last few weeks and is for the moment at a pause. I successfully (due to much help) held the RS Christmas dinner and boy, it was fun! Lots of work, stress, and calling but I think everyone had a great time, there were some leftovers and it was great for my first hosted event. Our theme was Come Unto Christ, and I had people bring in their nativities to similate the nativity rooms some stakes put on, hoping to bring Christ into the room a little more. We had 16 songs- 13 were special musical numbers, and about 23 scripture readings. My favorite song was truly Michael Mcleans song, I Was Not His Father He was Mine, sung by a man who to me, closely resembles my father in countenance. Both very warm mannered, great with kids, and so full of compassion for others it just eeks from their beings. It gave me chills to hear, and I wished I could've stayed in that moment for a long long time. I think it is because I feel so much that the children in my home, esp. Little G has some incredible tasks to complete in these Latter-Days. I feel so much like a guardian for him--more so than a mom/buddy. I hope I make the big guy up there proud, and I pray that I can have the strength to be the teacher for little G that he needs.

Little G Update---
On that note- The day before the dinner, Little G was diagnosed with staph. Long story, lots of stress was added to my shoulders and I felt like the worst mom in the world--who lets their kid get staph at 2 months? Who lets their kid get staph, period? Never google a medical condition unless you're ready to see lots of really scary pictures and hear lots of uncomforting advice. Ended up calling mom in tears looking for some kind of comfort... felt a little better. End of story is that we caught it pretty early, and he's cleared up and is finishing up his antibiotics soon. One brownie point for doctors and western medicine this time. I think we're even now. ;0)

Dads visit to the desert---
Then, it was getting my house back in working order for the arrival of my dad two days later. We took him to the Hullapai mountains, the infamous Wal Mart, and out to my gpop's house where we got the great 4 generations shot. He even got to see how joy school works... at least my attempt at holding joy school with a screaming infant and kids that would rather be playing than following any type of routine. My favorite thing my dad does is read. He's always reading to the grandkids when they let him, and he seems to get their attention like I wish I could. Pure interest. He read some Christmas tales to the girls and I think at times I was more into the story when they were, because it was so much of my childhood I think. He would always read to us, and he reads to the girls a lot, too. I can't wait until my kids are old enough for the Just So Stories. My dad read those to me and to me, that was what made those longer stories fun and bearable. I appreciate my dad and the contribution he has put toward my own ideal family outline. Eva just watched a short video I took of grandpa reading The 12 days of Christmas and she was saying it along with him where she could. She really misses him, but I have had to tell her that Grandma shared him with us- and she wants him back too. Thanks Grandma for sharing! I hope he felt like we took good care of him. And thanks Grandpa for being in CONTROL and helping us avoid the KAOS. hahaha.

Pick a Little, Talk a Little,

2008-11-28T21:51:00.000-08:00

So "here's the pick a lot, talk a little more!" part.
we had a great Thanksgiving yesterday. The missionaries ended up calling and needing a place to eat at, and I love having sister missionaries. We had plenty of food. We started the day with Macy's parade, onion tears, and a lot of sugary muchies! I had everything planned, and it worked out on time great...except for the turkey. It was kind of a mess. The turkey timer popped before it was done...I'd put too much chicken stock in the pan, not basted it enough, and cooked it at a too high temperature at first drying the top. The popper area wasn't even cooked either.... hmm. I think next time I'll stick to the time idea, not the turkey popper. Most of the turkey cooked though and we were all alright. However, the leftovers were scanty because I was just a little hesitant. The sweet potato pie was great and the first thing Chloe and I dug into. The jello was good, the green bean casserole was a little mushy because I'd been hasty and cooked it the night before. And the apple pie tasted a little fermented. Tossed it. We finished the leftovers tonight of everything but one plastic baggie of turkey. Definitely less than last year, but overall still cheaper than eating out for 6. I felt bad that our little G couldn't taste anything. He slept through the whole thing after being fussy all morning and afternon. After dinner we played thanksgiving Bingo, phoned family, and got the kids tucked in around 10.

And todays plan? The Christmas decorations. What did we get done? The tree. Half of the tree. But, I cannot complain because we were in Bullhead, a warmer region, buying something I've wanted for... I think at least 8 years! *drumroll* ..... A KITCHENAID MIXER!
Ok. I'm very spoiled by my hubby. spoiled rotten, maybe -but, I love it! I told him this morning in a joking way, "I want to be treated like a goddess today!" And he said, "You got it!" What a sweetheart. From the time he woke up to the time he fell asleep with little G on the couch recliner, he was helping me and pampering me. What a day! I had only mentioned this morning right when I'd woken up, "Maybe I could get an early only Christmas present? Well, never mind. It's really..... nevermind. And you know what? He said, "What...do you want a mixer?" So, we got it! I'll have pictures soon. I'm just too tired right now. I feel so loved! Chloe and Eva said, "That's like the machine Ms. Laura had." I am so excited. This thing is better than a Kirby vaccum. It even has an attachment that can grind grain, one that can strain and blend up apples and other soft fruits for baby food, and soooo much more. I know this is a standard in so many homes, but I've finally got my kitchen gadget!! woooohooo!!
now for Brians gift... he's already gotten what I was going to get him, so I'll have to do some serious thinking... there's always the backup, white shirt, tie and socks.. maybe even a new wallet? lol. (I think my dad had like 30 ties by the time we were 18, and lots of white shirts. He always seemed so appreciate though and would wear it the very next Sunday-which was good because my sisters and I would wait like hawks until we saw it on him. I love my daddy!)

What am I thankful for?
- the gospel of Jesus Christ, and the peace I have regardless of world crap going on
- my family, especially the addition of our little 'homie G'
- my husbands job b/c they're becoming rare out there!!
- sunshine and fall weather combined!
- friends to have a ''complaining'' session with, to help keep kids in line
- loving mom and dad
- blogs! to keep me from harassing people
- fleece
- sparkles
-the ability to touch, feel, and taste the 'things' of the seasons!

That's my ten I thought of off hand... off to bed!

My finger....

2008-11-25T21:37:00.000-08:00

What Finger Are You?

You Are a Pinky

You are fiercely independent, and possibly downright weird.
A great communicator, you can get along with almost anyone.
You are kind and sympathetic. You support all your friends - and love them for who they are.

You get along well with: The Ring Finger

Stay away from: The Thumb

I find this very funny because my sister is a thumb. We get along just fine though. hm.

Once Upon a Time...

2008-11-25T20:25:00.000-08:00

Tonight as B was putting the girls into bed, after a hectic evening and many 'discussions' with our kids, this is the story he put them to bed with.
"Once upon a time there were two little girls. They were so very beautiful. They were so smart because they earned their money and saved it in their piggy banks and left the money in them, in mom and dads room. And they were gonna have sweet dreams. One was going to dream about Meg and ponies and the other was, uh, unicorns. Rainbow colored unicorns. And they were so excited to have their dreams that they went to sleep right away and were so very quiet..." That was all I could hear, but I bet the rest of it was just as good. Can you tell we talked about money and saving?
While I was listening I was snuggling a cozy little baby boy. I thought about how grateful I am for my family, my husband, and how lucky we are to have such healthy wonderful children. I thought about how glad I am that I'm sealed to Brian for eternity- a blessing sometimes forgotten ;0). I thought about our home, and our adventures here in Kingman, and all the fun we've not even had yet. I look forward to those times. And then I thought about Thanksgiving, and all the things I have been given on this earth. I feel rich with love- sometimes more than others it's bursting from our houses 'seams' out here, and I love that feeling!
In my Relief Society meeting tonight the president brought up a few scriptures about peace. The Lord says he brings peace unto the righteous not as the world gives us, but his own kind of peace. Christ is the Prince of Peace, not the author of chaos. If we are doing what we should: food storage, saving money, getting out of debt, obeying the good 'ol 10 commandments, we should be able to feel at peace. And it's true. Here's my story before I go to bed...
"Once there was a family who lived in a city called Kingman. They were a wonderfully happy and righteous family. They were so smart, they followed the prophets' teachings and showed their love for each other very much. One gave the other massages after a long day, another worked for the family all day to provide, another cooked the meals and cared for the children, another wiped tears away and gave a shoulder to cry on... and yet another, though very very small gave the others an opportunity to remember what simple things we should appreciate. We felt so fufilled in our lives, that we showed love not just to ourselves, but to others as well. And this brought them a peacefull feeling in their hearts for the rest of thier lives."
Goodnight.

A Wonderful Thing!

2008-11-24T20:35:00.000-08:00

For Family Home Evening, we decided to purchase a pre-made gingrebread house that came with all the trimmings and use it for our centerpiece this week and the upcoming weeks. (as long as it lasts-which may not be long with these sneaky fingers) The girls loved decorating it, and the variety of things they did amazed me! Chloe's favorite thing was the gumdrops, although she found that they didn't taste as good as they looked. Eva's favorite thing was putting on the icing.. But I think they both loooved those little balls. That was the first thing to use and the first thing gone. Eva even hid under the table to sneak a few (it's nonstop with these hooligans! This morning it was a half a bag of peanut butter m&m's) Ya.... They have a sweet tooth on 'em alright!

I loved how we had to all work together on this masterpiece. I'm trying to do a lot of teamwork things for us right now. Obviously B wasn't really into the whole thing. He enjoyed watching me try to not be anal retentive about the house not looking like the four different types of houses on the box (which even came with step by step directions...how rare is that?) , and the girls become slowly covered with crusty white icing. Eva will still deny that she snuck anything...

TA DA! Here is the masterpiece at the finale. I don't think it will last long. Chloe keeps asking if we can eat it when it's dry. It's hard to tell little kids to not eat these colorful fun looking candies. Notice we made it like our Rossford House as much as we could... The Green painted triangle shaped top section, B drew a crack in the wall on the opposite side, and I even drew our broken gutters. Oh! We don't miss that house at all! It was a good house to start off in, but it's definitely a 'starter home' for us. Our hope is to someday- ok, MY hope is to someday have a house near fam and seasons, and a house away from snow and extreme cold.

No it's not Halloween anymore...but,

2008-11-15T21:37:00.000-08:00

Chloe was down to the last bits of her birthday gifted makeup tray and having run out of the lip gloss, she decided to use the eyeshadow creme as a lipgloss, and a blush, and.... well - face paint practically.... Although after taking this picture watching her apply more makeup, I mentioned "Chloe, be careful ok? It's not meant to be all over your face-paint, yaknow?" (in the most gentle voice I could do) and she immediately got a wet hand towel and started wiping it off with a frown.
" Why are you cleaning it off? You look so serious.... and sad."
" Because you said you don't like it, and it's not supposed to be like paint."
*DOH*
We talked about no matter what our faces look like or what makeup we have in the drawer, the prettiest things on their faces is their smile. I just hope they believe me. I know I didn't believe my parents growing up- they were obligated to tell me I was beautiful.

And Eva only just having turned 3 has not been allowed to apply her own makeup. I was leaning on Chloe's, um, discretion to apply makeup sparingly. Chloe was pretty proud of her creation and her own face...
They certainly looked like some Barbie dolls or somethin', eh?

A 'footnote' and a Visit from my Gpop!

2008-11-15T21:15:00.000-08:00

An addition to my prior post- these are the socks... soooo cute and soo tiny!! Thanks again!

A loving visit from Grandpa Great and Auntie C was all I needed on Thursday to make my day get better. They were the ones that live out in Mohave Valley, where my contractions were picking up with Gabriel. We talked about food storage, his upoming Elk adventure, and Gabriels blessing coming up (which I'm toootaly pysched about!). I shared some more applesauce with them too as they left. They really liked it-- I hope I can make it just like this next year. The girls were so excited to have them finally come to our house for a little while.

WATCH OUT STEELERS!

2008-11-15T21:02:00.000-08:00

The Girls and their moment with the sports star, Gabriel - defensive linebacker for the Kansas City Chiefs!!! They even wore the second bib to keep their clothes clean... I let them help post this and yes, they have done their own makeup...

Thanks Uncle Jeremy!! Little Gabriel is now a Kansas City Chiefs fan, for sure!! lol. Notice the socks were even matching... along with this cute ensemble were two coordinating bibs... how FUN!!! Gabriel just has to watch out for those Steelers!! hahaha. Gosh I looove those baby blues!!
The perfect present for Gabriel--why? Because B and I are such rarely involved with sports-of any kind, that this exposure from Gabe's uncles might prove to be the only exposure he gets! A joke, that might be more truth than fiction, but B & I will give it the old college try. After all, the sports are all the same, pretty much, right? ;0) I've prepurchased a game for him for Christmas that is called Dunk and Cheer. It's a manly game of coordination... Grrrrr!

One month old 'Little Squeaker!"

2008-11-10T13:25:00.001-08:00

I like the serenity he gives off in this pic

True baby... sleeping, sleeping, sleeping

My little boy in the 'hood'

This is full body pic so you can see how long he's getting... at least I think he's getting long.
He smiles when he's gassy, and you can tell he's got dimples like crazy. He flips from his belly to his back and rolls back and forth from side to side. He's got eyes like his daddy- what a hunk-a-munka! He lets me sleep at night for 2-3 hours right now and has just gotten used to sleeping in his bassinet (I brought it out to the main room where the noise is - he's actually slept through me vacuuming right under him in the swing and through my girls' tantrums.) We call him squeaker because he makes lots of squeaks here and there... it's really cute!
Eva's definitely starting to feel the 'middle kid pinch' - I could use any suggestions at all. Time with her alone, and she doesn't know what to do and just misses her sister. She's really needing to feel successful at something though....

Watch Out Primary Presidency

2008-11-10T13:17:00.000-08:00

I was cleaning the kitchen and came into the living room hearing this "I believe the gospel...", etc. Chloe was using her hairdryer as a voice amplifier (it echos) and Eva was taking turns helping Chloe know what to say and then giving the talk herself from the scriptures. I watched for a little bit, grabbed my camera as Chloe said, "Before you leave make sure you give your paper to Sis. Alvey (in the Primary Presidency)." This was right after they were wanting me to pretend to be Sis. Corbett. (they're old primary chorister and now Primary President I think) I had to chuckle because sometimes I wonder if she's paying attention in there. I guess I know she's at least paying attention at the end.

Thinking Thoughts....

2008-11-02T20:37:00.000-08:00

First thought - 'Who's line is that, anyways?'
Ok. So I wonder where kids learn things... by darn- I think my kids actually pay attention to me more than I do myself sometimes! Yesterday, Eva was telling me, "Gabe's just like, chillin' out." And if you know how her voice is just so teeny still, it's crazy hearing that from those lips. Then she says- which she's said before, but the combination of the two sayings has caused me to pause- "I was like freakin' out. Just freakin' out." Wow. Do I say that? Sometimes I think that they watch early 90's flicks all day to learn the lingo but I think they just listen to me. They are my socialization during 90% of the day-and they sure do get told to just "chill out" and to stop "freaking out" - but hearing it back makes me laugh soooo very hard.

Second thought- 'Talk before you act'
Find out the reason kids do crazy things before you jump to conclusions. I think I know all sometimes, because don't we all- but tonight as I 'assigned' Brian to go discipline the girls for shutting their bedroom door (that's a BIG no-no in our house) he walked in and I heard
B -"Who shut the door?"
Chloe- "I was just trying to be brave like you and mommy"
Frog in mouth moment. Dang.
Brian came out smiling ear to ear and bragging that he had gotten a huge smile and hug from Chloe. Sometimes I think he actually realizes just how much Chloe looks up to him - as her knight in shining armor kind of guy. Which brings me to a third thought:

Third Thought- 'It's scary raising these girls. It's scary raising boys... Parenting is risky business'.
If B compliments Chloe on something, she runs to tell me. It doesn't matter if I had just said the same thing. Daddy has now said it, and THAT is what counts. It warms my heart, but kinda stings at the same time to know that she doesn't look at me like that. I know it will bite me in the butt when she's a teen. I did the same thing when I was a teen. *whince* I see now how much B can have an impact on her self esteem, and it's scary because guys don't realize this will pattern her thoughts when she goes out to look for her "other half". But we can give all the self esteem in the world to her, and some idiot out there can undo it all of a sudden. I had a wonderful father, who I looked to for A LOT- might even say I wanted to be the apple of his eye. All to have an idiot take my esteem and crush it. B still deals with my 'baggage', should I say- poor guy. It's scary having little girls. I pray that they will listen to the prophets and be strong enough - strong enough for everything and that my boy will be strong enough to guide and protect his own family someday. We know it will only get rougher out there for our kids.

Technical Error

2008-10-31T20:51:00.000-07:00

Smehow I missed this in the last post... Here's a pic of Chloe as Marioposa (up until today she wanted to be a princess - a good thing I waited until the last minute. She loved her outfit.. and I made her a cape / skirt thing like the mariposa doll. For those that saw the bday album, she has been the ONLY one to play with mariposa unless the younger one seees the older one playing with it. Then, it's a cool toy wanted by all.

Hall-o-ween!

2008-10-31T20:44:00.000-07:00

This is the first time I've let him sleep tummy down... he slept much better. Not so much reflux; not so many cries interrupting his needed sleep. He slept for about 3 hours like this. Yes, I think he is a tummy sleeper. What a cutie patootie!

Here is Gabriel's outfit - he's a bear. GRRRRR! Ferocious!

I got the idea for a purple under-cape from my OH friend- thanks Laura! I made this today in case they changed what they wanted to be. Eva maintaned her 'mean old witch with a hat' position. Until I made the cape, and she wanted to be a princess. "no." I said. "No changing minds now. You WILL wear this cape tonight. You can be a princess tomorrow." (as she's crying her eyes out). After it was actually made all the way, I put it on and she started screaming " Batman!" and running around the house. She ran around for about 10 min. like this, and I was thinking... 'Batman?' I had no idea she even knew who Batman was, let alone run around and say ''Bat-MAN!" Someday, we might use the cape for Gabe, and he can be Bat-Man.... I suppose purple could be a manly color?

A pic of the two hooligan-o's together. I wish Chloe would've been looking at the camera. The other pic I have makes it look like Chloe is about to punch Eva.

2008-10-28T23:10:00.000-07:00

Thanks Nana! (Eva got this for Halloween) Chloe got one as well, but Eva was in charge of those pics and well... I'll post some new ones later.

Only in Kingman do your packages come with dirt for free! This dirt was extra special because it woud not come off the package. I sorta smeared some in the lower left corner, but it was some seriously thick stuff. At least these packages make it to our house in good time. In Valle Vista, the UPS would have to call and get directions after sending like, 2 people out to try and deliver it (another wonderful reason to be a city-slicker)

Frogs, Pumpkins, and Ballerinas - oh my!

2008-10-28T23:04:00.000-07:00

This was a froggie outfit from Aunt Steffie... it was perfect for him that day. He was a scatcha-holic!! There are little froggie heads on the feet- and the caption on the shirt said so hoppy!

We carved pumpkins last night for FHE. Eva had a roarin' good time getting her hands gooey and all the designing really was fun for her. Luckily- I got to work with her and all she wanted was a happy pumpkin... by the time we got to the mouth she wanted an angry pumpkin. It worked though!

Chloe was, as you can see, distanced from the whole thing. Her chair is far away and her hand does NOT touch the pumpkin. She hasn't ever really liked carving pumpkins although she talks like she really loves the whole thing. What she loves is how daddy will scoop out her pumpkin for her and carve the whole thing as she dictates. What a girl, huh? :0) She can't stand the smell, the touch, and isn't even a big fan of pumpkin pie as of yet. She doesn't like witches, ghosts, or anythin slightly spooky. We'll see if things change as the years go on. This year she chose to do a princess ballerina pumpkin. B carved a tiara on the top for her. He is such an awesome daddy!

And this morning, after I got my day started I came out to the living room and saw the girls voodoo-ing thier pumpkins. B and I had left the toothpicks out from last nights creating. I thought it was kinda funny. As the day has worn on they have taken the toothpicks out and put them back in in different places. I think it's a craft for them to do--sorta, so I've left it there. Things will be different once Gabe starts crawling though.

The House Now...

2008-10-20T21:57:00.000-07:00

It's definitely a different dynamic with a third - and a new baby at that. Eva has taken on the whole idea that if she's in trouble she'll run to Gabe, kiss him and say "I love Baby Gabe." It's not working-don't worry. She is a great big sister though. She's the first to rock him, get his binki or anything else. She always wants to see his face to see how he's reacting and can't give enough hugs to him. Chloe is working on being so grown up about the whole thing. "All he does is scream and sleep," she told her uncle. She's a big helper for me though - the more dependable errand runner of the two. She loves to hold him, and sing to him. She tries to talk about him with a grown up attitude... she certainly is feeling like an adult.
The one thing that is hard is sharing the attention. Chloe is extremely high maintenance, so she's feeling that the most I expect. We've created *again* mommy & me time. Chloe is very anal about her time with me... and is sure to get it every day. It's a good thing though, because I honestly forget and I feeel as though I've spent time with her already, until I think about it. Chloe keeps me all to herself with her 15 min and Eva doesn't care at all if Chloe jumps in to her 15 min. Today Chloe and I had massage time. I gave her a massge - something I haven't done in a year or so -officially. She almost fell asleep, it was so cute! Eva wanted one and then forgot about it. Gabe loved his massage today too. I started trying to read to the girls more one on one and talk to them more while I'm nursing...
New things, new techniques and new ideas. If you have suggestions, I'd love to read 'em.

2008-10-20T21:55:00.000-07:00

Even in this digital age, I still have the thought to do baby announcements. Here's my question... where can I do them for like... LESS than 1.00/card? Any ideas? I've attached these pics I'm going to use for it... if I ever bite that bullet, but I'm having a hard time spending the money on a much needed nursing bra, let alone paper that people will do who-knows-what with.... Not to belittle the mail recipients, but I know things only stick around for so long. That's ok-that's the way things should be unless you're a collector of sorts. I'm really excited that these pics turned out so well. Maybe anything is possible with this Picasa program, eh? The next tackle is the family portrait and Christmas newsletters...

Thank You!

2008-10-16T11:33:00.000-07:00

A big thank you to everyone who gave us flowers and balloons! They are beautiful and my goal is to keep them looking beautiful as long as possible.
Thanks especially to my mom who gave up some of her final weeks with her other grandkids in Ohio (before they move away) to help me in AZ with the arrival of Gabriel. She took a lot of care with watching kids, giving me encouragement in the first week home, and made delicious dinners! Let's not forget the stories, snuggles, and pink chocolate milk that the kids will not forget!

One Week old!

2008-10-16T11:27:00.000-07:00

He's one week old now and has received the 'snip, snip' - Brian was the brave daddy to take him to that appt. I am getting better about it all, but it was nerve wrecking for me... He's sleeping 2-3 hours at a time, and is alert much more than even the last few days. The girls are able to hold him while he looks at them, and are wonderfully big helpers from sun up to sun down!

2008-10-16T11:23:00.000-07:00

My happy tired mommy moments waiting for the hospitals ok to leave...Chloe was verrry tired of waiting, too.

Our little Boo!

He has Arrived!

2008-10-16T11:18:00.000-07:00

Chloe is sure proud and sooo big now - a big sister 2x

Eva asked "Who's that?" She was really excited to finally see Baby Gabe!

Grandma and Baby Gabriel!

Gabriel in all his glory being 1 day old! Our little Tiger!
Weight: 7 lbs 15 ounces
Length: 20.6 inches
Time: 10.7.08, at 1105pm
Yes, he is now a real live part of our family! All I had to do was travel out of town 90 miles and I went into labor. Three hours later Brian was just getting off work, and I was just passing his exit. My mom was driving (luckily) and was able to drop me off at the medical center and Brian met me there minutes later. I was hooked up to monitors, but not having progressed at all besides the contractions, was signing my discharge papers when Brian and I decided to take our time leaving. We walked around for a little more than 15 minutes or so and were convinced something was happening and it wasn't an option to leave. An hour later I had progressed enough to admit, and was on the way to the getting the ever wonderful epidural! And, three hours or so after that Baby Gabe arrived in 2 pushes!
Of course this was the one evening that I'd actually had quite a bit planned - feeding the missionaries after getting my mom, a grocery trip, and a scripture study class I'd organized.... go figure!
I feel wonderfully blessed to be able to have a healthy baby boy, to have had a safe delivery, and a quick recovery! I know that angels were there to give me strength while he was growing, to help him arrive, and that they gave me strength that day. It was a miraculous experience for Brian and I. We are so grateful to have this little stud in our family!

Sisters....

2008-10-05T20:44:00.000-07:00

God made us sisters, Our hearts made us friends. Love keeps us bonded Thru thick and thru thin.Being family Gives permanent ties, For which I am grateful To be in your life. Though our paths may lead Down separate roads ,God gave us each other To help with the load.God had a great plan, As He always does. Growing together Was the best for us.I can't imagineMy life without you. Sisters are for keepsAnd forever true.