cra-Z-boy

this boy is cra-Z to the max.

It's amazing how much personality he was born with and yet he still continues to surprise us. He knows that anything he says- as long as it's in a crazy voice- will make his brothers laugh. Someday he's gonna realize that the world is not his audience and does not revolve around him.

Aaron was home from work yesterday (Nevada Day! Yeah!) So we celebrated with a big breakfast= omelets, french toast, hash browns.... the works. When everything was ready, Zack announced that we would like scrambled eggs and stuffing. We all thought he was mixing his words with something else, but sure enough, he knew what he was talking about. He wanted STUFFING. I had some in the fridge leftover from Sunday's dinner and decided to warm it up for him to see if would really eat it. The kid chowed down. And he couldn't have been happier about the combination.

During breakfast, he kept complaining that his feet were cold. I think he wanted to engage in a conversation about where his socks were, but we didn't catch his drift. After the meal, I found his new buzz light year socks (thanks, Grandmother!) like so. What a dull life we'd have without him around...

Happy Halloween, y'all!

Dear Sabrina

Dear Sabrina,

I remember the day we ran into each other at Costco. We'd met (briefly) months before, but I didn't remember your name. You remembered mine and were so friendly and cute. You had three kids anxious to eat their pizza and a baby in a sling. It was during the lunch rush at Costco and we were blocking the traffic to the soft drinks. We quickly exchanged numbers and went our separate ways. As I was walking out to my car a few minutes later, I knew our meeting wasn't by chance. The night before I had been praying for you to come into my life. I was telling God how frustrated I was with homeschooling. The kids needed more friends. I needed more support and someone to talk to. I felt lost and frustrated. It's amazing how someone can come into your life and fill a void you didn't even really know existed.

The next day (or maybe it was two days later) we met at the park. We laughed and chatted as we pushed our toddlers on the swings. We couldn't talk fast enough-- as though we instantly understood each others sense of humor and personalities. Our older boys stood in the middle of the playground, with their arms folded and discussed Star Wars and how to create their own video games. I knew immediately that they would get along. And I felt you and I had instant chemistry as well. I told you all of my homeschooling frustrations. You listened and gave me great advice. We promised we'd get together often. And we did. We've seen each other several times each week (if not several times each day) since that afternoon in the park- which was less than a year ago. How can I possibly have known you less than a year?

I distinctly remember a conversation we had last August at your pool. The older kids were swimming together and Zack and Sylvia splashing like the wild children that they are. Once we demanded they wear floaties, we were able to relax on the side of the pool and chat. You told me (in secret) that in the next couple of years, your husband's job location might change. You were looking at a small city on the coast in California, but you didn't know how you could possibly leave Vegas. I encouraged you to think about it. Moving to a new city is such a fun adventure. The kids are young and adaptable right now. And who wouldn't want to live by the beach? Hours later, I wondered why I had been so encouraging. The last thing I wanted was for you to leave Las Vegas.

A few weeks later, you dropped off your baby while you went to a dentist appointment. I love watching Hazel because she's the most well-behaved baby on the planet. She is sweet and lovable and never cries. Only on this particular morning, she cried a lot. I think she knew it was going to be a terrible, no good, very bad day. When it was time to pick up Zack and Sylvia from preschool, I put Hazel in the car seat in my van. As soon as I snapped the buckle, I knew something was wrong. It was really tight and wouldn't adjust. I literally couldn't get her out and couldn't move the buckle. Just then, you pulled up in your van with Zack and Sylvia. You came into my garage wondering why your sweet baby was screaming bloody murder. You saw that I was squeezing the life out of her with my broken, built-in car seat. We yanked and pulled at her while she wailed. You had her feet and I twisted her head at just the right angles until we finally pulled her out. You raised her in the air and announced, "It's a GIRL!" as if she had just passed through another birth canal. We laughed and went inside. You brought me a delicious lunch and stayed while I ate it. It was then you broke the news that you were moving-- but not to California and not in two years. You were moving to Arizona. And soon. We hugged and cried.

After you left, I sobbed like a baby. The kids didn't know how to help me and kept asking what was wrong. I told them I was really, really sad because our best friends were moving. They were sad too, but reassured me several times that we could always visit you. That's true. But visiting you isn't the same as having you down the street. You are my family here. You are the person who watches my kids all night on my birthday. You drop your schedule in a heartbeat if I have something spontaneous planned. You are up for a good time no matter what. You are such a great example to me and I have learned so much from being around you and your children. I don't know how I am going to fill the void in my life now that you're gone.

I hope you and your family will love Arizona. I know Arizona will love you and your family. Enjoy the swimming pool in your new back yard and please try to keep Sylvia from drowning. You know I've saved her life more than once, so be extra cautious now that I won't be her personal life guard. I wish I could be around when Hazel's hair finally grows in. I am heartbroken that you won't be around to see my baby. Not only because I want you to meet him, but because I need you to watch my older boys when they get stir crazy in the house.

I'm going to miss Ben calling his brother "Luke S." because there won't be a "Luke V." to get him mixed up with. I am really going to miss Isabel's cartwheels in my living room. But most of all, I am going to miss you. I am so grateful for the Internet and the ability we will have to keep in touch over the years. I look forward to watching your kids grow. I can't wait to see you rake in the big bucks with your amazing artist talent. Please don't forget about me when you're rich and famous. And always remember that you taught my kids everything they ever need to know about Van Gogh, Monet, da Vinci and Picasso.

So grateful that you came into my life when you did.

Love always,
Janet

picture taken 10/29/2009 @ 8:00 pm

I had been crying for at least 2 hours prior and another hour (or two) after the going away party...

Maybe I'm so emotional because I'm very pregnant. Or maybe it's because my husband is working a lot. Maybe it's because I don't live by my family and I'm extra lonely. I told Sabrina tonight that it can't be because she's THAT great of a friend. Maybe she is.

halloween party

Today we had a little party with Zack's preschool friends -and the older boys' homeschooling friends. It was low-key, but lots of fun. Anytime the kids get a chance to dress up in their costumes is a good thing. We made all kinds of Halloween crafts and goodies and played a few games. I feel so grateful to be able to celebrate this way with the kids- and not be on bedrest OR have a newborn, yet. Life is good!


Today was the first time this year that Ben has had to wear pants. He wasn't happy about it... but it's cold and he finally gave in. Anyway, his Bumblebee costume is small to begin with-- even though it's a size 10-12, go figure. He pulled up his costume over his clothes, turned around and said, "Do these pants make me look fat?" I laughed which made him feel self-conscious, but then I tried to explain that he has no idea how many women ask that question every day. He thought he came up with it himself. It still makes me giggle.. and I had to take a picture of his bulky backside while he was pinning the nose on the Jack-O-Lantern.

When we got home, the boys reminded me that I didn't get a picture in MY costume. Very true. Halloween ain't over yet! A big thanks to Arah for sending me her awesome homemade cow costume in the mail (along with Halloween goodies and a gift certificate for the baby. I am so spoiled!) I thought dressing up as a big farm animal would be an appropriate costume for me this year. Do you think it makes me look fat? It's so comfy, but the kids sure love mauling my nipples!

cookie crazy...

I cannot believe how FAST two weeks of bedrest has flown by. I've watched more movies in the past 14 days than I can count... and I've really enjoyed resting, taking bubble baths and reading good books (almost finished with Steinbeck's East of Eden. wow.) I am surprised how little I've done, and how easy it's been to just chill out and be lazy. *just because I recently posted pictures of our newly painted bedrooms doesn't mean I've done them recently*

Today is the first day that I've been up and at 'em and it feels GREAT to do something productive! I ran errands, cleaned, grocery shopped and made cookies like it was going out of style. No exaggeration, the boys and I made 5 dozen Halloween cookies and 6 dozen chocolate chip pumpkin cookies. I didn't intend to do that many-- it just sort of happened. I also made several dinners to freeze (the only thing I really need after the baby is born.) I literally spent the entire day in the kitchen and it was awesome! The oven was on for hours and kept us warm in this freezing weather. (no kidding, it really is cold here!)

Frosting sugar cookies with kids can be stressful. Especially when one of those kids is named Zack. Ben was the only one allowed to use a knife. Luke and Zack had to squirt from a baggie and even that ended up being a big mess. Luke dropped a couple of cookies on the ground and Zack ate most of the candy before we could decorate the cookies. I was lucky enough to use defective green food coloring. But overall, it was a success. Now I can justify storing our holiday cookie cutters for another year.

The craziest part of the day was delivering the cookies to as many houses as we could handle. I am so glad I have little errand boys who love to ring doorbells! I can't believe Halloween is just around the corner. It's the most wonderful time of the year.... I can't wait to whip out Christmas music next week!

For those of you who are biting at the bit for recipes, I will share. I've used the same sugar cookie recipe for a few years now and still love it. The cookies aren't pretty when they come out of the oven, but you frost them anyway. They are soft and flaky and my favorite.

The pumpkin cookies are not the necessarily the best I've made, but they are SO easy. Three ingredients: a small can of pumpkin puree, one spice cake mix and chocolate chips. That's it. If you only have a large can of pumpkin, use two cake mixes and more chocolate chips.. that's why I ended up with sooo many cookies today. Happy baking!

why you should never send your husband to the grocery store, reason #157

This time, I didn't even NEED anything from the store. I asked my husband to return a redbox DVD.. and the closest one to our house happens to be located at a grocery store. While The Mr. was out, he decided to pick up a few items. He returned quickly with a couple of bags in hand. I could see the smile on his face as he put away his beloved boxes of cereal. I asked him if he was excited to eat Honeycomb in the morning. He didn't answer. Instead, he threw me a small grocery bag and said, "I bought a little surprise for you." Secretly, I was hoping for a bag of soft cinnamon bears. In my wildest dreams, I never expected to find a bottle of this:

Never did a present from any man come with more shock to the heart of a woman than this did at this time to mine. I am 8.5 months with child, trying my best to stay pregnant until my due date. I was speechless but smiled as my husband told me about his adventure to the store.

After he returned the movie, he walked passed a "manager's special" grocery cart with items marked 75% off. He saw the box with a bright yellow discount sticker and he couldn't help himself. If I wasn't thrilled about the purchase, it would make a phenomenal white elephant gift for the family Christmas party. He placed it in his cart and moseyed down another isle. As he grabbed a carton of Egg Nog [yes.. it's important enough to be capitalized. It's finally that time of year!] an older woman put her things in Aaron's cart, mistaking it for her own. They were equally embarrassed.

A few minutes later, he was checking out. Still feeling confident about his purchase, he placed the item on the conveyor belt. The female clerk tried to scan the pills but because they were discounted so low, she needed to call a supervisor to change the price. She specifically told the bagger to leave the pills alone. Aaron dysfunctionly twiddled his thumbs as the store manager keyed in the override.

Of course, I am not upset about the purchase-- because there is a hard-core GUARANTEE written on the box:

If you are not 100% satisfied with the result of this product you may return the unused portion along with your original receipt. A check for your refund will be sent back to you with NO QUESTIONS ASKED.

We laughed as Aaron said he's looking forward to giving it as a white elephant gift. I think it would be more amusing to give the bottle opened.. with only a few pills left. Either way, it came with a BONUS product inside= ten capsules for women. I'm pretty sure those are non-refundable.

"Garth, marriage is punishment for shoplifting in some countries."
- Wayne Campbell.

i heart halloween CANDY

I ALWAYS make the mistake of buying our Halloween candy too early. Before you know it, the entire 50 lb bag is gone and we have to make another trip to the store before the trick-or-treaters stop by. This year is no different.

Today, Zack hugged me tightly and said, "Mom, I willy willy want to eat a whiskers."

I laughed and said, "That doesn't sound very yummy."

He responded, "They ARE yummy. They have chocolate and peanuts. You know, the bag is up on top of the fridge."

Me: "Oh. You want a SNICKERS? Not a whiskers?"

Zack: "Yep! You thought I wanted to eat those lines on a cat's face?"

Me: "I wondered."

Zack: "That would be WILLY GROSS!"

Me: "I can guarantee you've eaten worse."

And with a face (and a sombrero) like this, I will give him anything he wants.

the transforming bedroom

All three of my boys are in the same bedroom. Somehow we've fit ALL their toys, clothes, shoes and books in the SMALLEST room in the house. It probably should drive me crazy BUT because we've limited what we HAVE-- it really does work. And not to brag, but I never have to clean their room. Granted, my oldest child is a neat-freak and could make serious money as a merry-maid. But I think the setup of their room has really taught them how to be better organized.

I really shouldn't be posting pictures because I still want to do another stripe (a smaller black one) but who knows when I will get around to it. So, here it is anyway.

I mentioned a few weeks ago that this room used to be navy. It was the first room we painted and the boys lovingly called it the Star Wars room. I never liked it. It took me a whole year to change it. I was dreading painting over the dark blue, but it was NOT a big deal. It was an afternoon project.. and when I was finished, I scolded myself for waiting so long. Paint is not something to stress about, people!

The stripe was easy. I leveled it with a laser, taped, painted gray over the tape (so the original color would seep through the tape on our textured walls. It makes a super straight line. Caulking over the tape doesn't work when your original wall isn't white..) Then I painted a coat or two of orange. All in all, it was a two-day project. The bunk bed was another story. It used to be white and I spray-painted it black. My husband was so annoyed with me (because I made HIM do a lot of the work.) But I am pleased with the result. Oh, and don't mind the transformer stickers... I didn't want them, but it's my kids' room and they are thrilled about having messy Transformers everywhere. At least they are removable :)

I believe I've already posted pictures of their closet. I am a minimalist when it comes to clothes, but I've allowed them to keep (and have constant access to) ALL of their costumes-- as long as they each have a place to go. Their costumes get used more than anything else in this room. Go figure. Their summer clothes have finally been switched out for sweatshirts. I miss their swimsuits as the basic unit of clothing already. My washing machine is feeling the difference too. Winter just means more laundry... can't wait to add a new baby to the mix and watch it triple.

Call me a mean mom, but I will not keep toys that my kids don't play with. I h.a.t.e. bulky items. The only toy they have that doesn't fit in a small bin is under their costumes (their star wars space ship... and I have a feeling it won't last long because it doesn't get used enough.) The toys they have get played with CONSTANTLY. You can't go wrong with blocks and legos and little buildable gadgets. But these kinds of toys can be really annoying if there isn't a place for them (and if they aren't out of reach from the little ones.) Thus, I have created this cheap (ghetto-fabulous) toy shelf. It used to be in our garage. I bought dollar store plastic bins and labeled them. Everything has a place and if it's not in it's place, my kids know I will throw it out. Each of my boys has their own bin for odd items that don't fit under a label. Their personal bins get cleaned out all the time because if it doesn't fit, they can't keep it. It's all about limits!

Eventually, when #4 is sleeping through the night, Zack and the baby will share a room. But this is honestly working for us. I know a lot of children have their own bedrooms.. and there are definitely benefits to either situation. But I have really enjoyed hearing them giggle at night before they drift off to sleep. And I am so impressed with Zack and his abilities to care for his own items. His older brothers have been awesome examples to him. I think limiting what he owns actually helps a lot. I have thrown out SO many toys over the years-- but do you know what? My kids can't name a single thing they're missing... which means they never really loved it in the first place.

There is no explanation on the shoes behind the door. Just want to say that it's mine from my freshman year in college-- it's still making my life easier. (The door to the right is their bathroom.)

** side note.. PLEASE know I am not posting pictures to show what a fab organizer/decorator I am. This has never been one of my gifts in life. But over the past year, I have found ways to make life SIMPLER. If it happens to help you in any way, run with it. I am also ALWAYS open to any organizing/decorating tips YOU have to share. I need all the help I can get!

the nursery

Yes, I am still pregnant! Technically, I have three weeks to go. I would be more than happy to go all the way until my due date... although I was up most of last night with pretty regular contractions. But I totally believe in this whole "bedrest" technique. A nice warm bubble bath can really work wonders with strong contractions. In my earlier pregnancies, I would get restless and go on a long walk... which would put me into labor. Now, I am just chilling and relaxing and not moving much. I am gonna cook this little fetus as long as I possibly can.

We are getting really excited for him to join our family. I feel so much more prepared than I did a couple of weeks ago, although I don't think I've done a whole lot. The nursery is not finished yet, but it is painted and the crib is put together. His clothes are washed and organized into their sizes and I can't believe how TINY they are!! I love that babies come so small!!!!

So, I am posting pictures of the nursery. Not because I profess to be any type of interior decorator. I believe that you should feel comfortable enough to do what you WANT with paint... because it's cheap, easy and can be painted over if you don't like the results. I would rather be creative and not do the plain old regular tan/white. But that's just me. Anyway, this is what I did in the baby's room...


I know it's not for everyone, but I have really enjoyed mixing my own paint colors. Maybe it's scary and disastrous, but it's part of the fun for me. I bought two paint colors. A dark tan and a dark green. I mixed them several times to get the colors that fit my style and matched the crib set given to me. It took several samples on the wall to get what I wanted. When I had the two basic (darker) tan and green, I used those and then mixed again with white to get lighter shades.. so four colors in all and lots of paint leftover for touch ups. I think all the paint and tape together cost me about $15. Call me a "cheapaholic" all you want, but that's the way I work it.


Originally I thought I would do basic checkers... but I don't know how to be uniformed and structured. I decided to paint the squares before the rest of the room just in case I hated it and wanted to paint over it. But I think it gives the room style and makes the white furniture stick out. The crib set also came with matching curtains, but I decided to make my own white to simplify. The room is busy enough. (I also covered the glider chair. It used to be a light blue... which probably could have worked with the crib set, but oh well. I made the tan covers with zippers so I can throw them in the wash easily..)

As far as organizing all his clothes (I HAVE SO MANY CLOTHES!) here is what I've done. In the closet organizer, I have over 25 pairs of PREMIE pajamas. The 0-3 are still folded in the bins. I just can't seem to get rid of the really small stuff... even after 3 boys, they hardly get used. And you must know how much I love back-of-the-door shoe organizers. I still don't understand why a human who doesn't walk needs more pairs of shoes than the entire family combined, but they are so very cute...


Obviously I have to hang things on the walls. I have a big white mirror, a shelf and lots of pictures frames, but I am brainstorming something for over the crib. It will have to be done after the baby is born... but of course after he's born, I don't know if I will have the time/energy to get around to it.

Stay tuned for pictures of the boy's bedroom. Just about finished storing their summer stuff. :(

carvin' punkins

I tried to talk the boys into PAINTING their pumpkins this year rather than carving- because we all know who does the dirty work when the family carves pumpkins= MOM. But the boys pulled a fast one and somehow convinced us to carve AND paint. It became the biggest carving pumpkin mess to date.


Aaron "helped" Zack carve the Transformer Autobot sign. It looked awesome until Zack messed it up with a bunch of sloppy paint. But we were chill-parents (something I've definitely had to work on) and allowed them to destroy their perfectly beautiful orange Jack-O's. They will be in the garbage in 7 days and the kids were happy with the results...

How cute are they?
Definitely worth a big mess every once in a while...

pumpkin patches, garage sales and throw up

Nothing says FALL like 84 degrees. We headed to the Vegas-style-parking-lot-pumpkin-patch in our t-shirts and shorts and enjoyed the sunshine. It was nothing special, but can you really celebrate Halloween without visiting a pumpkin patch? I don't think so.

I was going to let my husband have an afternoon out with the kids, but decided to go at the last minute. Aaron was thrilled that I joined them. Because on the drive home, I kindly forced asked him to stop at a garage sale. I could see they had lots of baby stuff and believe it or not, there are still some things I need. Reluctantly, Aaron pulled over and let me roam for a bit while he stayed in the van with the kids.

They were selling a super nice swing for cheap. I wanted to buy it, but mentioned to the garage sellers that I just couldn't because it was PURPLE. When they asked what was wrong with purple, I told them that I was having boy #4 and purple would never do. I could tell they were offended when they replied at the same time "We have all boys, too." I decided to shut my mouth and leave as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, when I returned to the car, my husband wasn't to be found. Neither was my three year old. Nope.. they were hiding on the other side of the van because Zack was throwing up all over the couple's drive way. Our van was blocking the throw up from the garage sellers-- but as soon as we moved, they would see the big present Zack left for them. I could not help but giggle as we quickly sped away. Both Aaron and I were cracking up, realizing how ghetto (and rude) we were. Ben asked why we didn't tell them that our kid had thrown up all over their driveway and that just made us laugh harder. Such terrible parents-- and human beings-- are we.

When we finally arrived home, I had to pee and ran into the house, not offering to carry in any of the pumpkins. While in the bathroom, there was a little knock and a voice through the crack of the door that said, "Um, mom! I need to throw up again."

I stood up as quickly as I could and unlocked the door for little Zack. As soon as he entered, he threw up ALL over me, particularly my pants and underwear that happened to be around my ankles. He said he was sorry in the sweetest little voice, and I was laughing so hard that I peed some more. Aaron came into the house with a few pumpkins in his arms. He saw his very pregnant wife standing in the hallway- naked from the waist down. It took me a minute to catch my breath and ask if someone could run upstairs and get me some clean clothes. Ben and Luke quickly responded. Aaron just shook his head and walked away. I guess such a manly-man can only handle so much excitement in one day...

nine kids and counting....

My oldest sister and her family have been in Vegas all week. They've been staying at the Luxor, but most of the waking moments of the day, our kids have been together. It's been wild and crazy FUN. I've let her move my furniture around and help me finish the nursery. And it's always nice to have visitors who take care of all the meals for you :) Lori is such a mother figure in my life. She is the oldest daughter of ten children and is such a fantastic cook!


Because I've been living my life low-key, we haven't done a lot. But the weather is so beautiful that we decided to venture out to the park and let the kids get some fresh air. Lori and I sat on the grass and visited while she painted my toenails. Zack got a hold of the camera and took the only pictures of their visit... sad I know.

pictures of our baby!!

Okay, okay. I will stop teasing with my post titles already. You're not going to believe me when he actually arrives..

I am still pregnant and thrilled to be so. I had an ultrasound today, at 36 weeks 4 days. The pictures are basically worthless-- but it was great to see the little guy on screen. I have been measuring small the last few appointments (around 31 cm) and with my preterm labor last week, my midwife was a bit worried that the baby would be really little. An ultrasound was the best way to find out how much he (approximately) weighs. Looks as though he's around 6 lbs so far and that's great news. I had already had Zack by this point... weighing a whopping 5 lbs 15 oz.

My sister is in town and was able to watch my kids. I would have loved Aaron to be there because he has yet to come to an appointment. (I guess that's what happens with your fourth.) Aaron is super busy with work and I will keep my fingers crossed that he can make it for the delivery.

So, I went solo and it was nice and quiet. It's really incredible seeing him this far into the pregnancy. He is so cramped! Seriously, the pictures are terrible because he couldn't move at all. He was literally doubled over-- holding both of his feet with his hands. And he's so low that we couldn't get any type of head shot. All we could see was lots of hair, but no face because his head is down so far. In fact, the tech kept saying that she's surprised he's not already out yet. It's nice for someone else to confirm how LOW he is-- because I can definitely feel it. He dropped a couple of weeks ago and even though it's nice to have him away from my ribs, I have a really hard time walking!

As uncomfortable as these last few weeks have been, I am so happy to still be pregnant. Honestly, it's been a big accomplishment for me to take it easy and keep myself from going into labor. I am really proud! I am hoping I can make it until Halloween... but into November would be awesome. I want him to be nice and plump. I've never had a fat baby before. Can't I just get a newborn with some chubby cheeks?

Even though my babies are small, they have all had large heads... so massive it looks like it might roll off their tiny bodies. The doctor today was going over the measurements and said his legs look really long and (I quote) "his head is huge!" I couldn't help but laugh as I thought of my other boys with their huge noggins. I think it just means they are born with lots of brains..

So, that's the latest report. Nothing exciting yet--- and that in itself is excellent news. Aaron has yet to pick out a name. He is such a procrastinator. I know he's only waiting this long because he knows it drives me crazy.. Today he threw out two names on his list-- Ozzie and Philbert. I can only imagine a huge-headed Philbert joining our family. Guarantee he will be born with glasses, suspenders and a pocket-protector.

Not that Aaron reads this, but I can always give him a few good name suggestions.. What's your favorite baby boy name? It's hard after you've already named three. I checked out a baby name book at the library for Aaron to read. After flipping through it for a while, he told me that Enrique and Emmanuel are no longer on his list because people whose names start with the letter E are more likely to cheat on their significant other. Maybe I checked out the wrong book. ?

Okay, must go to bed. Sorry if this is so random and doesn't make any sense. I am extra tired tonight and don't want to proof read.

love to you all!

ready or not...

Tonight for Family Home Evening we played hide and seek in the dark. A few years ago, this was a regular tradition for FHE. But the kids are more interested in board/card games recently and it's been several months since we've turned off all the lights and hidden in the secret spots in our house. I was a bit reluctant to play--- because I really am trying to stay off my feet as much as possible. But I figured I could find somewhat comfortable places to hide and still be a good sport.

When Ben started counting, I found a nice little place next to the couch and hid. It was so dark in the house that Aaron couldn't see I was already there and tried to squish in next to me. We tried to keep from laughing when I pinched him- letting him know (without talking) that the spot was already taken. He quickly found a nice place behind the dining room curtains.

The next round, it was Aaron's turn to count. This gave me the freedom not to hide at all. I sat on the couch comfortably as Aaron counted as S...L...O...W as he possibly could. When he was finished he waited a good minute before saying "Ready or not, here I come." We just smiled at each other as we enjoyed the silence. I wonder how long we could have waited before the kids would have gotten restless in their dark crevices. Not long enough, that's for sure.

And during the final round when it was Zack's turn to count, Aaron and I were feeling rebellious and decided to hide together-- under the covers of the guest room bed. It was nice and cool and cozy in there. We crawled under the sheets and pulled them over our heads. Just as we were about to kiss, we heard someone else come in the room and scurry under the bed. Shucks. We tried so hard not to giggle as several grunts came from beneath us. Apparently, it was quite a struggle for Ben to fit under there. I was trying to hard not to make a sound and ended up snorting which was a dead giveaway when Zack came in the room. Even in the dark, we could see the thrill on Zack's face when he pulled down the covers and found us.

After it was all said and done, we sat around the table and enjoyed banana splits. We talked about what color of hair we would change ours to if we had all the options. Zack would want green, Ben blue and Luke would like to have hair the same color as his skin. I've always wanted to be a strawberry blond.

to advertise or not to advertise

THAT is the question...

When I switched my blog over to fairlyhappy.com, I decided to do advertising with BlogHer. I think I left the ads running for a couple of weeks before I felt too weird about it. This blog is definitely NOT a business. I don't write to make money. I don't pretend to be a professional at motherhood, homeschooling and least of all writing. So, I decided to take the ads down. I felt more relaxed about how often I posted/comments/what I wrote about/whether or not people were reading and so forth.

AND THEN I got a check in the mail from BlogHer. I was pleasantly surprised and said to myself "That was the easiest FREE MONEY I've ever earned." There is no reason not to get paid for what I am already doing. So, pardon the ads. In fact, don't just pardon them-- why don't you make friends and click on them? You can even go so far as to tell others about my blog so they will click on them. I have officially decided that the advertising will stay. I hope you will too.

ps. I am also going to be more careful about what I post. I will be updating my private blog with the personal stuff.. so I feel less worried about what the entire world is reading. If you need an invite, let me know.

one of these things is not like the other...

Aaron didn't get home until late last night. I was in bed but not asleep when he came up to our bedroom. He was sweaty from tennis and took off his shirt while he brushed his teeth. Then he walked over to the bed to talk for a minute. He was telling me about his day and I wasn't really listening. I just kept staring at this handsome, shirtless man.

I couldn't help but think that we were SUCH an odd couple. Here I was laying in bed like a fat walrus washed up on the beach shore. I was curled on my side, draped around a big pregnancy pillow, wearing the most unattractive (yet most comfortable) night gown. My hair was frizzy because I was too lazy to blow dry it before I laid down. And I honestly can't remember the last time I wore makeup. Is it actually possible that I am married to this man? Does he know that I currently weigh more than he does? How can he love me in such a state?

After we (he) finished talking, I looked over at our wedding picture hanging on the wall. That WAS me, once upon a time. And we do fit together. Maybe, just maybe, I will look and feel like her again.



When Aaron finally laid in bed next to me, I basically told him everything in the above two paragraphs (minus the walrus washed up on shore, I believe.) He tickled my arm and said, "My good looks are only skin deep, honey." Which made me laugh and love him all the more.

i'm in love with my boys

I hate to constantly brag about my awesome kids-- but I think it's okay because I can't take any of the credit. They just came that way and I am trying my hardest not to corrupt them.

Many people have asked me if they can pick up the boys while I get some rest. As kind as it is, I really believe my life is easier with them around. Ben asks at least 10,000 times if there is something he can do for me. When I say "No thank you" he will respond, "Are you sure? Not even a glass of ice water?" I KNOW his example is a big reason why his brothers have turned out so well. They want to be like him and he is pretty much perfect in every way. I am so grateful Ben came first.

Luke is the sweetest boy around. He is constantly hugging me, playing with my hair or putting his face close to my tummy and telling the baby to "Stay INSIDE for a while!" Yesterday he made a secret pact with Ben... If Ben would do Luke's job for the day (clean the bathroom and shine the mirrors) then Luke would spend his time giving me a foot rub. What a great situation for me!! After Luke was finished with his foot rub (more like a lotion application, really) he quietly told that he didn't even care if his hands smelled like flowers. That is true love always.

Then there's my crazy Zack. I can't believe I wanted to give him away just a few short months ago. Zack has grown into the most easy-going child. He is independent and almost always happy. He doesn't need me for anything. (Sounds like I need a baby to give me something to do, dontcha think?) Yesterday he asked if I LIKE him 100 or LOVE him 100. When I said that I LOVE him 100, he smiled and said, "Well, I win. Because I love you infinity!" And on his way out the door to preschool yesterday, I went to give him a kiss. He thought I wanted a high five and ended up slapping me in the mouth. Both of us started laughing and he sweetly said, "Mom, I didn't want to hit you in the face." It was such a tender moment.

While Zack was gone, the older boys and I went through a huge chunk of homeschooling curriculum. They are so easy to teach. Among other things, we learned about MATTER: solids, liquids and gas. The kept saying "Everything matters because everything IS matter." Their favorite thing to discuss was GAS and how they are so glad they are it's usually invisible. Aren't we all?

Over lunch, someone mentioned how Zack is growing out of his naked stage. He used to strip down his clothes and run around the house, jump on the trampoline or beds, and/or dance for us. That lead to a discussion about one of the first things their Daddy said to me. I had only known Aaron a few short days when he told me (and my roommates) that he liked to turn off all the lights in his apartment and dance-- naked. My boys thought I was making the story up. When they realized he actually DID say that to me, they could not stop giggling. After Ben caught his breath he said, "I would NEVER say that to a girl.. ever!" Luke agreed and stated that Zack is probably crazy enough to say something like that. Zack nodded his head and said, "HI! I'm Zack and I like to dance naked!" If only I could have recorded that voice-- and the blaring laughter that followed.

After lunch, the kids sat down to watch a movie while I took a nap. When I woke up, they told me they decided not to watch the movie because they wanted to make their own word searches and crossword puzzles instead. Oh, how I love their nerdy-ness. How cute are the Halloween and Transformer themes... and I love that they included Zack in the "fun". Here is proof of their good time:



Now, if that isn't creative or smart enough, let me tell you how brilliant little Luke is. After spending some amount of time making handwritten word searches, he took it upon himself to find a website that will create them for you. Pure genius, I tell you. All he had to do was plug in a few of his favorite words-- all coming from his Star Wars cards, and he had a custom (professional) word search. He printed out three copies and they had a race to see who could finish first... If you want to print out a copy of Luke's word search for your own Star War obsessed little boy, be our guest. Just click on the image and print... or you can make your own at this site.


Everyone was curled up in my bed reading scriptures before bedtime. We were all tired and I told the kids that if they ran to their room, I would tuck them in. (Aaron hadn't come home yet. insert frowny face here.) Ben, being the perfect child that he is, said: "You are already in your bed. Maybe WE should tuck YOU in." All three boys came and gave me a hug and left me alone in my bedroom. I went to sleep praying they wouldn't be translated in the middle of the night. I was so happy to wake up and find that God has kept them here another day! Lucky me.

bedrest

I am 35 weeks along in the pregnancy. I'm in preterm labor. Nothing too serious... just constant contractions, dilation, and the loss of my cervical plug. This has happened in my three previous labors around 37 weeks-- (usually about 24 hours before my water breaks.) I realize that 35 weeks is far enough along that the baby will survive, but I REALLY don't want a small baby-- and I REALLY don't want him to spend the first few days/weeks of his life in the NICU. Everyday I stay pregnant is a success. I am going to do whatever I can to keep him inside until he's big enough and healthy enough to meet us.

So, I am on bedrest for the next couple of weeks. I've had to cancel everything on the schedule. No Halloween parties, book club, field trips, baby shower, co-ops, etc. And I am perfectly okay with that. I won't be exercising in the mornings, having sex, running errands, being Sister Friendly at church, making fancy dinners, decorating the nursery, wearing a bra or cleaning my house. I am a little bummed that I won't be able to check off the long list of things I want to do before the baby comes. But everything can wait..

I will, however, be doing lots of good things-- like homeschooling, reading, having a daily bubble bath, sewing, watching movies, playing games, taking afternoon naps and enjoying my little family. I have an awesome husband who totally knows how to throw together a quick dinner and doesn't mind a few dishes in the sink. My kids could not be more cooperative. They clean their messes, do homework without complaint and quickly grab me the things I need-- not to mention give me the freedom to take long baths/afternoon naps! I truly feel blessed and I am going to enjoy this time to LAY LOW and CHILL OUT. What a great excuse to be lazy!

Isn't it amazing how badly we want to do things when we can't? I didn't realize how MUCH I wanted to exercise in the morning until it wasn't an option. A few weeks ago, the thought of sitting on the couch for hours at a time would seem like vacation! But now that it's mandatory, I find myself completely frustrated. I guess the grass really is greener somewhere else. I've had several conversations with moms who are pregnant longer than 40 weeks--- and I know that's annoying in it's own right. But NOT being able to do the things you want to before the baby is born isn't very much fun either. I am just very grateful it's only going to be a couple of weeks... HOW on Earth do mothers go on bed rest for longer than that?? And how terribly sad is it that it's supposed to be 84 degrees today in Vegas? Such a great day for an adventure outside. Oh well.

Anyway, that's the pregnancy status for now. I suppose I will be updating my blog frequently with the amount of down time I currently have. I am thinking about making Zack a baby book before the next is born... something to keep me busy and feeling less guilty about him not having his own book. The majority of his life is documented on the blog, anyway. It shouldn't be hard to pull it together. My big dilemma is deciding whether I should go digital and hard bound or cutesy/scrapbooky like his older brothers. Both are time consuming, but time is what I have... if I play my cards right and this baby doesn't come before we're all ready.

Speaking of playing cards, Go Fish has been dealt and my name is being summoned to the bunk-bed-fort. We're taking a break from reading Fabelhaven to play a few games. It's incredible how excited your kids can get when you tell them that we are officially having a pajama party for two weeks!!


ps. I repainted the boys' bedroom. This used to be the navy blue Star Wars room... I will post better pictures later (like, maybe after they make their beds...)

action verbs take 2

Lame that I am doing a new post with Luke's worksheet from yesterday.... but as I was about to throw it away, I thought it would only be fair to scan Luke's in as well. I don't want him to look back and think I favored Ben. So, here it is. Now, I can feel okay about shredding it....


If anything, this paper proves what a great alien artist Zack is at age 3-- and how annoying it can be when he doodles on "serious" school work. My favorite is the alien inside the alien-- with two sets of arms and only one pair of legs.. pretty creative.

action verbs

I need to document several schooling stories, but I have a bubble bath waiting for me- so a quick scan in of a worksheet will have to do for now.

Today we were reviewing ACTION VERBS and I think my boys were a little bored. While filling out a worksheet, I heard them giggling like crazy. They were supposed to write one action verb in each blank, but this is what Ben handed in. Luke's was creative too, but Zack ended up coloring aliens all over it and it's too messy to scan in...


Just because they happen to LOVE potty humor (and are sometimes quite violent) doesn't mean they aren't sweet kids. While emptying the dishwasher, Ben asked if he needed to unload the silverware. He was basically doing Zack's job anyway, so I said I would do the silverware. Ben sighed and said, "Well, there's no reason for YOU to have to do it!" and quickly finished it by himself. I truly do enjoy having the boys I do.... potty mouths or not.

pregnant woman faints gets published...

Awkward Family Photos is publishing a book with Random House next year.. and my pregnant fainting picture will be in it. (That is, if I ever get the ENTIRE family to sign release forms-- what a task!)

Anyway, today they posted the fainting picture on their website www.awkwardfamilyphotos.com. I am determined to get famous-- somehow...

ps. My Scottish friend Amelia should get all the credit. I didn't even know about this website before she came along...

10 cents per kid

Last night while Aaron was playing tennis and I was folding mounds of laundry (and watching Little Women upstairs) my boys were having a "movie theater party" downstairs.

I knew something was up when I saw Luke empty his piggy bank. A minute later, Zack asked what job he could do to earn 10 cents. I had him put away ten piles of folded clothes. He was thrilled about his dime and ran downstairs. A bit later, he needed a quarter. I handed it over just because his face was so cute. And because I ripped him off earlier with the penny per pile of clothes.

I came down about an hour later to a dark room. I found two kids asleep on the couch and another with a bowl full of popcorn and a pocket full of change. These were the signs taped to the front of two couch cushions...



Apparently, Ben had cleaned the "movie theater" while they were collecting their money, so he thought it was a good idea to charge them 3 cents for every toy they brought into the room. I also made him vacuum up the popcorn after the movie-- because when you own a theater, sometimes you have to do the dirty work.

even more random....

I honestly believe that video posted on it's own this morning. I must have entered the code a while ago and accidentally had it scheduled to post.. either that or my computer is possessed. psycho.

But since we're on the subject of the man who plays with a pool full of kids, let me just say that I really do love Aaron. I always knew that I loved being around him, but I didn't know that after 10 years of being together (11 since we met) that he would make me THIS happy.


Tonight we watched Jim and Pam's wedding together. I was a bit disappointed-- until the boat scene, of course. ( Why do all shows have to turn so dirty?) When it was over I said to Aaron, "Aren't you glad that I only made you wait ONE year and not FOUR?" He grabbed my hand and with a completely serious face he said, "I would have never waited FOUR YEARS for you." And I smiled.

*****

I am still sleeping terribly. Well, when I do sleep it's great, but I am often awake in wee hours of the morning. The other night after tossing for a while, Aaron moved to my side of the bed and cuddled with me. This is the conversation we had at 3 am:

A: having a rough time, eh?

J: wide awake.

A: is there anything I can do for you?

J: what do you think about naming the baby Roman? I wrote about my Grandma last week on my blog and have been thinking about it ever since.

A: I don't think either of us would be satisfied.

J: why not?

A: because I don't love it and deep down you want a Roma.

J: so-- if you're naming this little boy, do I get to name our first girl?

A: Nope. but you can name our fourth girl.

J: bummer.

A: how are you supposed to see the houses when you're hanging your head down so low?

J: are you asleep?

A: no. we're having a conversation here.

J: well, is that some kind of metaphor I'm not familiar with?

A: what are you talking about?

J: see what houses? what do you mean by hanging my head down?

A: (snoring)

J: (trying not to giggle too loud)

he rolled over annoyed and didn't think it was funny until morning.

*****

Last weekend, the boys and I went to watch one of Aaron's tennis matches. He is so coordinated and I love that he makes it a priority to work out often. He takes such great care of himself.


We all loved watching him cream his opponent. But the best part of the match was after it was all over. Ben, Luke and Zack stormed to court to give their Daddy a high five. They were so proud and I couldn't help but smile as he scooped them all up.

There's nothing like seeing the one you love adore your children just as much as you do. This is definitely the good life.

random

just found an old summer video.
I love my husband for so many reasons....

nienie on oprah

Yesterday I watched Stephanie Nielson on Oprah. It was inspiring and emotional and everything beautiful. She looked radiant and it was obvious to everyone how much her Mr. Nielson loves her. I still get tears in my eyes when I think about the way he looks at her. She truly is beautiful.

This morning, before the kids woke up, I logged onto NieNie Dialogues. I have been following her fabulous blog since the crash. But she was documenting her life years before the crash. This morning I read from her archives... somewhere in 2006. As I read, I just kept thinking what a beautiful thing blogging is. She has those precious years documented. Her life is so different now and I am sure those journal entries are priceless. Had she not survived the accident, her children would have such a big piece of her to look back on. They would have known how much she loved being a mother. And how much she enjoyed the everyday, little things.

Although her life is difficult, the world is a better place because she is still here. What a miracle it is that she's still alive! I love thinking about her being able to bathe her boys and make crowns for girls. They need their mother.. Oprah was so right when she called her a Warrior Mother. Stephanie's example makes me want to fight harder, love deeper, live with more enthusiasm, hug my children tighter and count my blessings.

There is something magical about recording the day-to-day mundane things of life. I am so grateful I have the ability/privilege to do the dishes... make lunch for my kids... and enjoy their laughing (and fighting) in the background as I type this. I am also lucky to have my own Prince who loves me despite my weight gain and rollercoaster personality. Today I truly feel grateful-- and exhausted! My kitchen faucet was broken yesterday and I am way behind on laundry... but life is really, really good.

Thanks to Stephanie Nielson for her beauty-- it most definitely comes from the inside and can't help but shine through. Here's to blogging and to enjoying the mundane things in life. Most of all, here's to Mother Warriors everywhere.


ps. if you didn't see Oprah yesterday and you live near me, feel free to stop by and watch it. I made my husband who never watches Oprah sit down after his long day at work. Even he got teary-eyed... which proves it was really touching.

girls, girls EVERYWHERE!

We just said goodbye to some of our favorite GIRLIES! My sister and her 4 girls (and husband) came to visit for a couple of days on their way to California. Lucky for us, they will be coming back later in the week! I could not get enough of the estrogen, ringlets, drama and giggling...

How is it that we each ended up with four kids of the same sex? Is someone playing a joke on us? We might just need to swap a couple. I will give her Zack anyday for her chubby-cheeked little Betty......

October First

I adore October. And not just because it's the season of costumes and candy. October 1st is my Grandma Roma's birthday.

She would be 95 today. Part of me is very glad she's not celebrating her 95th birthday on the Earth. The other part of me really misses her.



I can still hear her scratchy, morning-voice. When I was a girl (and into my teenage years) I would sleep at her house. She would wake up in the morning and make me burnt toast with homemade jam. Often she would forget to put in her teeth until afternoon. Sometimes she had to eat without them because they were lost in her bra. We would sleep in the same bed even though I had my own room in the back hallway of her trailer home. I loved her bedroom. My grandpa's clothes still hung in the closet and still smelled like him. Her colorful jewelry was always scattered on her dresser. Those bright pink clip-on earrings complimented any outfit I was wearing. I remember hearing the train whistle and running to her back porch to count the cars. I loved her well-cared for roses and picking juicy raspberries from her yard. I wish I could steal an oatmeal cookie with drizzled icing from her cookie jar. If it was empty, we would surely head to the Hostess store to fill it up. She would let me pick anything I wanted in the entire store. I would choose a coconut zinger.


What I wouldn't give to look curl up on her couch and look through her black and white photo albums. She would tell one of the many stories from her past. Maybe it would be about the Easter Sunday she met my grandpa.



She and her sisters were wearing new dresses and she told them as they walked to church that ONE of them should meet a handsome man that day. Enter Fred Clawson.


I wish I could remember my grandpa. He had a heart attack and passed away when I was four. My dad idolized his father. Fred was a smart fellow who loved to put mustard on everything. I like to think that my Luke got his great-grandfather's brain and quick wit. I inherited his love for mustard.


My grandma loved her husband and lived over 20 years as a widow. I can only imagine how hard that must have been. I'm sure she's happy celebrating her 95th with him.


Part of me feels that my Grandma is spending her birthday at my house, celebrating with my little family. She would sit in our school session and sing a song to Ben to help him memorize his multiplication table. She would listen to Luke read chapter 10 in his Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle book. She would laugh at Zack when he shook his finger at her while commanding, "NEVER EAT SOGGY WAFFLES, Grandma." She wouldn't even be annoyed with him after he said it for the 20th time. They would all enjoy sitting next to her to play with her stretchy, flabby arms.


I know she would be happy to help me finish making curtains for my kitchen later this afternoon. If only I had her mad sewing skills (and her serger!) After the curtains were hung, we would play Rummikub together. She would encourage my boys to play, but she would never go easy on us. But that's okay because it's more satisfying to whip her when she's trying hard to win. I would tell my boys to be quiet if she placed a blue tile next to a black tile and to plug their ears when she swore. She would challenge us to another game after I won.


But there's not time to play another game. She has a million other grandchildren to see... and she couldn't rest until she's visited every last one. I know that's how she would want to celebrate her birthday because that's how she celebrated her life. Before she left, she would make sure that WE KNEW she loved us and that she was proud of us.


I would tell her how much it means to me that she came to the temple the day I received my endowment. She was recovering from a bad accident and I knew she was in a lot of pain. But it seems nothing could keep her away from supporting her grandchildren and letting them know how much she cared. And despite the cane, wheelchair and neck-brace, she is still smiling.


I would bend down to hug her and squeeze her wrinkly hands and tell her that I think of her often. I look to her for strength when I am having a difficult time... because I know she went through much worse. I would tell her I'm anxious about having another baby and ask her for advice about childbirth. I would explain that we don't have a name for baby #4. I think Roman is a darling name for a little boy. I still have to convince my husband. Yet, I am holding out for a little Roma, if I ever get a girl. Does she know if I have a daughter in heaven?


I would thank her for making me always feel like I was someone special. I would tell her I loved her. I would let her know how proud I am to be HER granddaughter.