terrible 2's, here we come!

Someone in this house has learned to climb out of his crib! I am actually surprised it took him this long to figure it out because he is a big-time climber, but he waited until the most inopportune time to do it.

At 1 am, I heard a little knock at my bedroom door. I was quite startled and opened it to find a little fuzzy-haired toddler. When I saw him, he smiled and said, "Hi Mommy!" My first thought was that he had been crying, one of his brothers got him out of his crib and then left him at my door. I picked him up, put him back in his crib, told him it was nighttime not playtime, and left. Two minutes later, he was knocking again. We went back and forth about 5 times until I gave up. He eventually fell asleep on my floor without any blankets. He was up bright and early, helping himself to anything he could get his hands on. Today it was a box of matches.

To be honest, the terrible 2's are my favorite. Yes, they are messy and exhausting, but it's a magical age where their personality emerges and everything starts to make sense. It's really hard for me to get mad at 2 year olds because everything they say or do is just so... darling.

Simon has an energy for life. He is so terribly busy, but he's usually happy and excited about everything he does... and that makes everyone in this house happier and more excited about the everyday things. We sure love this crazy kid.. even when he plays in baby toys!

As I was uploading these pictures, Simon came to me holding my swimsuit- which was hanging in the downstairs bathroom. He gave it to me and said, "Dog. NO! Mommy doo-doot." I love that I can understand what he was saying.. Sunny must have gotten my "doo-doot" and Simon rescued it for me! What a cutie-pie he is!

how to tie a tie

Ben's having a birthday next week. He'll be TEN. I am not freaking out or wondering how it happened because this child was practically an adult the day he was born. But I am feeling a little worried that I'm not teaching him everything he needs to know. The last ten years have flown by.. I am going to I blink my eyes he will be out of this house for good. Time with these little people is short and I want to prepare them for the big, bad world out there.

The other day, while thinking along these lines, I pulled out a notebook and listed a few practical skills I hope to teach my kids before they leave my home. These are a few items on that list:

• how to tie a tie
• how to sew on a button
  
• how to do their own laundry
• how to make bread
• car maintenance=changing oil, replacing a flat tire
  
• how to keep plants alive
• how to read a bus schedule/ride public transportation
• the secrets of barbecuing
• how to keep an organized bedroom (house)
  
• reading food labels, making nutritious choices
  
• writing a grocery list, comparing prices
  
• taking advantage of the library system
• how to prepare simple meals

Some of these things I don't even know myself (like how to keep a plant alive) but I believe they're important. Most of all, I hope my boys leave the house knowing that they are capable of anything they set their minds to-- and that they can be happy if they choose to look at the bright side of things. But I believe these practical skills will help them BE capable and feel better about themselves when they are out on their own. Anyway, just a few thoughts going through my head lately.

Last night, after our FHE lesson, we each grabbed one of Daddy's neckties and learned out to tie a tie. Everyone enjoyed the activity.. even Luke who wasn't feeling himself. The boys practiced and practiced until they got it perfect. Simon mostly wore one around his head and ran around like a super hero. It was a challenge trying to get him to sit still for ONE picture-- a lesson I need to teach all of my boys, including my husband :)

It's a privilege being the mother of these little men.

What skill did you learn as a child that has served you well as an adult?
What do you wish your parents would have taught you before you left the nest?

making room for PINK

Last week (or maybe it was the week before, everything seems so blurred) I had another ultrasound with the baby. The boys were at a friend's house and Aaron was able to get off work and meet me at the doctor's office, so it was a perfect afternoon date. Before we went, I couldn't help thinking that somehow this baby was going to grow a penis and all my dreams would be shattered. But she still has GIRL parts. Yay!

The 3D pictures are a little freaky, but awesome too. She looks a lot like our boys did in their ultrasound pictures... particularly Luke and Simon. If she comes out looking half as pretty as Simon, I will be satisfied.

Since the ultrasound (proof that she really is a girl) I've been making room for lots of pink clothes! I've washed & organized what I have for the first 9 months. I am loving all these hats, tights and shoes! And how crazy is it that my boys still only have one church outfit each? Boys are so boring-- and easy.


I feel a little weird having a baby shower when I already have so much stuff. Do I tell my friends NOT to buy me girl clothes? Maybe just do an accessories or diapers shower?? I honestly don't know what to do with it all! It's in my closet for now..., but when we figure out what we're doing with our bedrooms, it will be moved... However, there is probably space in my closet for a crib too :) You never know.

My side of the closet still has the same, old clothes.. Most of them are either too small or too big for me... or too hot to wear in this blazing heat.

Oh, and our new bedroom furniture.. Do you want to see it? I still plan on getting new lamps, but I just can't seem to find the excitement to go shopping for house decor. Some people love it. I do not.

I should have vacuumed and dusted before showing you inside by bedroom, but who are we kidding? I don't dust, but I need to with this black furniture. We also have a tall dresser, bookshelf and circle mirror on the opposite wall. Maybe I will show you later. I have bathroom pictures to upload, too. (I painted our vanity black to match our dressers. Love.)

Our room used to be a darker gray, but with this furniture, I decided to go a few shades lighter. It definitely has a blue tint in the morning and I love it. While painting, I came across this little marker man behind a dresser and just couldn't paint over it without taking a picture. Thanks to Zack, we have a few more of these permanent people around our house..


If this post couldn't get more random, let me now give you an update on our throw-up status. It's still going on... about every hour. Luke has been struck down by this 72 flu bug. I hate to say it, but it's so much nicer having him sick than my younger two. He does his thing in the toilet and then sleeps the rest of the day. Ben is the only one who has yet to puke this week. This morning he said to me, "Man, I just know I am going to be the last one sick and now I wish I was the first." He is so funny.. I'm crossing my fingers it doesn't get him.

Here's to cute dresses, new paint and getting better!

25 weeks

not a lot to say about these awkward pregnancy side shots. 25 weeks along (taken at the end of June.) I dream about being the kind of pregnant girl that grows a basketball in her tummy. Unfortunately, I am the kind that gets fat everywhere... so much so that I don't really look pregnant. Just fat. But this baby girl is worth every inch/pound!

kicking and screaming

we've had a week-long flu bug that has almost killed us. okay, I'm being slightly dramatic, but it was a rough couple of days there. Luke and Ben were the only ones not infected and I am crossing my fingers they stay healthy. Aaron had to come home from work because he was sick, which never happens. Poor Zacky has been SO lethargic, he literally hasn't moved since Wednesday. Simon has lost 20 lbs and now weighs the same as he was born. Being pregnant and sick is no fun, and cleaning throw up all day is the cherry on top. It seems like that's all I've done this past week. Anyway, I'll stop complaining... and exaggerating.

The other day, while I was trying to get caught up on laundry (something that multiplies with illness) Simon was screaming, "Help! Mom!" from the staircase. I thought he had thrown up again, but instead I found him trying to carry a small watermelon up the stairs. This was after he hadn't eaten anything in over 48 hours and all of the sudden, he was hungry! Luke said he watched him climb off the counter with the watermelon in his hands, and I totally believe it. He's our little monkey.

He wouldn't smile for the camera because he wanted me to take it from him and cut it up. He gulped half of this "melon melon" in one sitting... and threw it up about 20 minutes later.

He's been talking up a storm these past few weeks and I feel terrible about the fact that I haven't filmed any of it. He's been my earliest talker (by far) and is starting to put several words together... although I am sure our family is the only one that can understand what he's saying. Some of his favorite phrases are: see ya later, good girl, sunny, I want it, and I love you. The other day, with temps at 103, he wanted to be carried- which never happens- he lifted up both arms and said, "Mom, I carry you." He's said it everyday several times since and it's so darling. I never want to put him down!

One of the silliest things he says is "actually" before he starts to say something. It's so funny what they pick up on. His favorite words are "MINE" and "NO". when you tell him NO, he will scream it right back at you... he's not messing around. He is also very good at hitting, biting, kicking and pulling hair, while screaming "Mine" and "NO". we're proud of our multi-tasker.

He's a big helper and wants to be right in the middle of everything. He is always right by my side when I am changing a load of laundry and wants to be handed the wet clothes so he can put them in the dryer. If I skip over him and throw them in myself he says, "I do dat!" He is becoming a master chef in the kitchen. He has his usual spot in the stool at the island and wants to be scooping, pouring and cutting along with whatever I am cooking up. It's cute and also really annoying. He can unlock and open EVERY door in the house, including the sliding glass door in the back... and that's super "fun" with our dog. He will let her in, only to demand she goes outside again. He points and says, "outtide, now!" That poor dog has to put up with a lot. We all do.

Simon is an expert fridge opener and dishwasher unloader. It's so hard keeping him out of trouble and my house clean! But he sure is a cute little "helper". Just tonight, he was loading the dishwasher with me. Just as I was about to finish, he grabbed a little detergent cube from under the sink. He opened the wrapper himself and decided to take a bite of it before putting it in the dispenser. He quickly spit it out and said, "dat's yucky!" while nodding his head as if to tell me, "all this time, you were right. it is yucky!" He also loves spray bottles, and will often squirt cleaner in his own mouth. And we wonder why his been throwing up for a week straight...? I will be so proud of myself if I can keep this child alive until he's out of diapers.

Speaking of which, he's showing interest in sitting on the potty.. which is exactly when Zack started potty-training himself. I am not getting too excited here, but you never know. He's very aware of when he's poopy or not and will bring me diapers, wipes and powder when he needs to be changed. If I ever lay him down when he's not poopy, he will shake his head and say, "tinky." I especially love when his head agrees or doesn't agree with what he's saying..

He's into talking about body parts and will point to anything you ask him. If he doesn't know what you're talking about, he will take a guess and point to somewhere random, which makes us all laugh. And when he's really naughty or grumpy, you can tell him to spank himself and he will give his behind a good little smack or two (which quickly turns his frown upside down). Next, I am going to teach him how to whack himself with a wooden spoon...

Simon is a HUGE lover boy and it's really hard to stay mad at him for very long because he's just so adorable. He will hug and kiss ANYONE at ANYTIME. His arms stretch way behind his back and his lips pucker out so far, it almost looks unnatural. Before bedtime, he will give each of us ten or twenty juicy kisses and big squeezes-- it makes all of the messes and tantrums totally bearable. He is also a great sleeper, which balances things out a little, too. We sure do love our Sy-Guy. I stress just thinking about adding another baby to the mix, especially knowing how busy he is (and will be for the next year) but I just keep telling myself that if the next one turns out half as cute as he is, it'll be worth it.

I wish I had more pictures (or videos) to upload, but it's 1 AM and I need to get some rest. This motherhood thing really is the BEST and the most exhausting job I've ever had. Most days I believe I am underpaid and overworked, but you'd have to drag me (kicking and screaming) out of this messy house... it's exactly where I want to be.

anniversary getaway

In seven years of owning a digital camera (and after downloading literally thousands of photos) I have never lost or misplaced or accidentally deleted a single picture... until this week. My sweet husband was cleaning up the desktop last night and deleted everything that was on the kid's account (something that I wanted him to do because our computer was running slow). I was careless a few nights before and downloaded our anniversary getaway pictures while signed into Ben's account. I was going to move the pictures to my external hard drive before I uploaded them to the blog (also doing some organizing of my own) but before I did it, I was distracted by my little one who had brought me a razor from my bathroom. To make a long story short, Simon wasn't cut by the razor, but our pictures from our 11th anniversary are gone. I believe for good. I am really sad about it and I take 100% blame for being lazy and not putting them where they belong in the first place. But at the same time, I can't be too frustrated. It was only one folder, approximately 10 pictures. And none of them were to die for anyway. But I am still going to do my best to record the memories, just for my own sake. It won't hurt my feelings in the least if you don't read...

We take turns planning the anniversary celebrations. Aaron is in charge of the even years... I am odd (I also pray on the odd days of the month). Aaron's plans are always more extravagant than mine because I am a penny pincher. Although I did get credit for the Hawaii trip in 2007 :). Anyway, last year was an expensive trip to Key West and this year, we decided to buy new bedroom furniture and NOT do anything wild and crazy. Aaron thought the circus with the family was the extent of our celebration, but I had another surprise up my sleeve.

On Friday, the day after our anniversary, I met Aaron for lunch. He was expecting me to show up with the kids-- we try to meet him for lunch at least once a week. I dropped all four boys off at our awesome neighbor's home and went to lunch solo. Aaron tried to act surprised, but he thought I had been acting fishy. Truth is, a hint or two had been given and he knew we were going somewhere. Oh well. I tried to be sneaky, but whenever I am sneaky, I act weird. I wish he didn't know me so well.

At lunch I gave him a handwritten coupon that said "good for a one night stay at a fancy hotel, expires tomorrow." Then I broke the news that his bags were packed... I had remembered everything except a pair of sandals for him. oops. We finished up with lunch and headed to Ross to buy a new pair of size 13 flip flops and "something more comfortable" to wear at the hotel.

We arrived in Lake Las Vegas around 2:00 pm. I also packed a cooler with sparkling cider, champagne glasses, whip cream, chocolate covered strawberries and our favorite snacks. It was a little embarrassing bringing a cooler through a ritzy hotel, but it was totally worth it. We were very pleased with our suite and instead of hitting the pool ASAP, we took a long nap on the king-sized bed. We were both so tired from a long week and it was so nice to lay down and enjoy the SILENCE. We totally made fun of ourselves for being so boring and old, but at the same time, sleep is super important at this stage in our lives... and we're not getting enough!

We woke up around 5:00 pm and got ready for dinner. We decided to eat at a nice French restaurant, where the tables were right on the lake. We knew it was close to our hotel, but not sure how close. We got into our car, left the parking garage, drove about 1/2 mile up the street, found the restaurant, went into another parking garage (or so we thought) only to end up in the exact place where we had started. The funny thing is, we didn't even realize it was the same parking garage until we went down the elevator and ended up back in the hotel. duh.

While in the elevator just before we got to the restaurant, I noticed that the tag of my skirt was hanging out. I tucked it in only to realize that I was wearing the skirt inside-out. Because we were alone, Aaron dared me to change inside the elevator, and I gladly accepted the challenge. I whipped the skirt off, and put it back on just before the doors opened. It was a super intense 45 seconds. When we got out of the elevator, Aaron congratulated me... and then looked down at my skirt and noticed I had put it BACK on inside out. I decided it would be best for me to change inside the bathroom where I could take my time and put my clothes on properly.

Dinner was my favorite part of the getaway. The food was awesome and the conversation was even better. It's amazing how you can be with someone for so long and still find interesting, new things to talk about. We sat outside and watched the sunset over the lake and laughed and chatted for over two hours. Our waiter left us alone and it was so romantic. I remember thinking to myself, "if this was our first date, I would totally want to marry this guy." We talked about the kind of parents we want to be to our kids-- almost like we didn't have them yet. I respect Aaron and his logical, sensible way of looking at the world. He is so level-headed and so mature. He is such a great husband and father and I feel so lucky to be his wife. We held hands as we walked back to the hotel (no need to take the car) and got changed into our swimsuits.

On Friday nights, the resort does a poolside movie (totally taking the kids back for this..) The movie this week was Father of the Bride. We missed most of it because we stayed too long at dinner, but were able to catch the ending, which is the best part anyway. We swam for a while, dipped in the hot tub (even though I am preggo) & enjoyed the awesome weather while looking at the big dipper. After the movie was over, we stayed out talking and didn't even realize that everyone had left and they were locked up. Someone eventually came to kick us out around 10:00 pm (we're party animals after a long nap!)

We went back to our room and toasted to 11 years of marriage. The chocolate strawberries were divine (the kids helped me dip them and it was apparent in how they looked which made them even more special :) We ordered Red Riding Hood on the movie channel in our hotel. A few months ago, Aaron and I went to see this in the theater, and I had to leave because I was SO scared. It was much better seeing it the second time (especially because I had searched online and knew who the wolf was...) It's not the best movie, but it's always good to cuddle up and get freaked out!

The next morning we slept in, went on a long walk around the lake, lifted weights in the fitness center, swam and soaked in some sun, showered back in our room and then checked out. It's amazing what ONE NIGHT can do away from the kids! Anniversaries need to come around more often than once a year!!

Because I have no pictures to go along with this post (sob!) I thought I would scan in the card I gave Aaron. I would love to scan his card in too, but then we wouldn't have a 12th anniversary... so this will have to do. Every once in a while, you can find a card that says exactly what you want to say. This was that kind for me. I love our life together.

circus, circus

to be honest, the circus was kind of a disappointment. I mean, it was cool and all... but not as cool as we all had remembered it. the clowns were kinda lame, the routines seemed drawn-out, the tigers did nothing except stand on a stool and then roll over on the ground... I don't know, maybe our expectations were a little too high. Zack seemed to be the most entertained. Ben and Luke, who have gone before, both mentioned something about how last time was better. In fact, when it was all over Ben said something to the fact that this circus was "more for little kids." I think we all agreed. Although the tight walking act was super amazing. Two men on bikes with poles on their shoulders. A woman climbed up and put a chair on the pole then stood up while they crossed. and they played leap frog, with someone jumping over 3 people at a time. super crazy. There was also a guy who jump-roped while walking across the tight rope... pretty amazing. Anyway, the pictures are about as exciting as the show was.



One of the most AMAZING things that happened that night was the fact that Simon fell asleep amidst the chaos. This child has NEVER fallen asleep in ANY public place, ever. Church is such a nightmare sometimes because he's so tired and just needs a nap, but he will never give in. I was so astonished while holding him to find out that his eyes were closed and he was snoring. There was music blasting, fireworks going off, loud cheers and screams from the audience and he slept through it all. I had to take a picture... it's not a great shot, but it's proof. I love that little squished little belly button of his.


On the way out to the car, Zack asked "Would you rather go to the Circus or spend the day at Circus Circus on the strip?" We unanimously voted Circus Circus. Zack agreed and then said, "Except for sometimes I get sick when I ride too many rollercoasters." True. But rollercoasters and throw up are way more exciting than a few clowns juggling fire. been there, done that.

adventures with Toad

I broke my two weeks of not throwing up record this morning around 4 am. I tried to go back to sleep, but the windows were open and it was so nice and breezy outside that I decided to take the dog out for a long morning walk. The sunrise was so beautiful over the desert. I wish I had brought my camera.

I came home around 6, fed the dog and got ready for scripture study with the kids. While pulling the curtains open in our room, I looked over at my husband who was sleeping peacefully and thought to myself, "How did I get such a nice guy?" His alarm went off next to his bed, so I rushed over to turn it off before he woke up. But his eyes opened and he seemed startled because I was standing only a few inches away from his face. Then he said in his scratchy morning voice, "Are you mad at me?" That question will have me laughing all day. My poor, sweet husband..

After we read scriptures with the kids, the breeze was still blowing through our bedroom, and the baby was still asleep in the other room, so I opened The Wind and the Willows and read a chapter out loud. Aaron was up doing his sit-ups/push ups routine, but he was listening to the story too. This chapter was about the crazy Mr. Toad who tries to convince his friends Mole and Rat to leave the boring river and join him on the road in a horse-drawn wagon where they could eat and sleep on the road-- and travel the world. I could hear Aaron snickering as I read because I am constantly talking about how boring life is, just doing the day to day routine... "Why can't we leave it all behind and go on an ADVENTURE?!" After one exciting day on the road, a fast motorcar almost crashes into them, leaving the wagon broken on the side of the road. They are stranded and hopeless, having to walk 7 miles to catch a train home. It's a terrible situation for everyone involved, but Toad is excited and talking about the next adventure. On their walk back, Mole asks Rat what they are going to do with Toad... Rat responds, "Nothing! I've seen him like this every time he starts a new craze. He will be in a happy dream for a few days and useless for anything else." By the time they arrive home and get settled, the whole town is talking about Toad and the new shiny motorcar he just purchased... on to something new and more exciting!

Aaron listened to the whole chapter and just smiled at me when I closed the book. I half wanted to throw it at him, but I restrained myself because I know without him saying anything that I am a crazy person to live with and everyone else isn't quite sure what to do with me. But from my perspective Rat and Mole are totally boring characters and need a little more adventure in their life. What would the story be without impulsive, exhilarating Mr. Toad???

homemade croquet

I have lots of other pictures to post, but I just don't have the stamina for that kind of blogging tonight. I have a sick toddler who has thrown up a dozen times (and has had at least that many runny diapers) in the past 24 hours. I've spent my day cleaning carpets, washing bedding and giving cool baths to a really warm baby. Luckily his temperature was down to 101 before he went to sleep tonight. Anyway--

Family Home Evening wasn't very exciting... until we came up with our own version of indoor/homemade croquet. We made a course out of butter knives, each decorated our own tennis balls with markers and used spoons as mallets. It was a huge hit!

(yes, my ball has red hearts all over it. Someone needs to represent the girls in this house.)

Simon wasn't a good sport. For starters, he wasn't feeling well.... he just ruined the course and kept throwing our balls-- so he had to go to bed without any dessert (which was a good thing because he would have chucked it up later anyway.)

happy father's day

We made breakfast in bed for Aaron today... he opened presents at 7 AM. A new wallet, a couple of dress shirts and ties, new boxers for playing sports, several cards, a homemade statue of Chewbacca... you know, the usual.

We had a nice family dinner and pulled out our champagne glasses and toasted to the best Dad in the world with cold sparkling cider. Then we went around the table and each said something we loved about Aaron. Ben said he's grateful for Daddy because he wouldn't be alive without him... and that he works hard so our family can spend money. Luke said he loves playing soccer with Dad and he's grateful that he fixes everything around the house. Zack said he loves Daddy because he knows Daddy loves him. When I asked how he knew Dad loved him he responded ever so sassy, "Because he's told me like 5 times!" I told the kids that without Daddy around I would be a lonely librarian-- without a home of my own or children to call me Mommy. There is no doubt in my mind that I wouldn't be married if he didn't make me do it. Everything in my life that brings me happiness and joy is because of him. I am so grateful to have chosen a man who is such a great father.

My husband was raised by a great man who is passionate about everything he does. I love my father-in-law very much and I am so grateful for the example he was/is to my husband. My own dad is one of the most selfless, smartest, stable men I've ever known. He has always been there for me and I count myself very lucky to be one of his ten children. My little family is so very blessed to have the men in our lives that we do. Happy Father's Day.

sad the weekend is almost over.

recipe for a perfect Saturday...

• wake up next to your handsome husband in a fancy hotel without any kids.
• eat a yummy breakfast.
• take a long walk around a beautiful lake.
• end up at the hotel fitness room to see who can bench press more weight.
• swim a few laps at the fancy pool (the same place you were last night, until they kicked you out because it closed.)
• lay out by the pool and feel grateful that the crying children nearby aren't yours.
• shower and take all the time you want to get ready for the day.
• check out of your hotel.
• pick up cafe rio for the family who watched your kids last night.
• say hi to the boys who didn't miss you one bit.
  
• eat yummy food with great friends.. it means so much when you don't live by family!!
• take the kids home.
• feel grateful you washed all the sheets and cleaned the house before you left.
• put the crazy toddler down for a nap.
• read the first chapter of "Wind in the Willows" to the older boys (while they rotate giving you a foot rub.)
• take a 3 hour nap. yes, 3 solid hours!
• go shopping for Father's Day.
• Get ready for Sunday...

Coming soon: pictures of our adventure to the Circus & the romantic getaway Aaron and I had at THIS resort in Lake Las Vegas. it was just what the doctor ordered. I love anniversaries!

happy 11th to us.

I can't believe I had time to post a gazillion anniversary blog entries last year. I can't even sit down to write a few simple lines this year. That's what pregnancy has done to me... and the fact that last year I had a sister living with me who was a HUGE help... and the fact that I spend 99% of my day chasing a busy, messy toddler.

Anyway, today Aaron and I celebrate 11 years of marriage. Last night we stayed up late talking about the night before our wedding and how nothing was going how I wanted it to go. The next morning, June 16, 2000 we woke up too early (5 am) to be the stars in our own wedding. Looking back, there are so many things I would have done differently, but it was a beautiful day. And the only thing that really mattered was that we made it to the temple and that we were surrounded by all our loved ones.

Just before our year anniversary, we took a trip to California (to visit my friend Karlin) and stopped in Vegas for a couple of nights. It was bloody hot and I was 8 months preggo. As we walked around the strip I remember asking why ANYONE in their right mind would live in such a city. Here we are, 10 years later, living the dream.

Today Aaron went to work without breakfast. I didn't pack him a lunch either, but was sweet enough to print him off a coupon for Quiznos. Simon was running around naked because he can't seem to keep clothes on anymore. I spent the morning cleaning my cluttered house, wiping up dog puke, reading to my kids, trying to keep a 1 year old out of the toilet, out of my makeup bag and away from the dog food, washing and folding laundry, vacuuming, dusting filthy blinds, and changing a few diapers.... oh and I fed my kids too.

I was exhausted by lunch time and sat down with the boys to eat. Ben was having a turkey sandwich on a hot dog bun. Luke was eating a sloppy joe. Zack had a bean burrito. Simon ate a couple of hot dogs without the buns. And I had a salad with yummy grilled chicken that Aaron made earlier in the week. It just made me laugh sitting with all these boys, everyone eating something different. I wondered if I would have believed THIS was my life if someone would have shown me a glimpse 11 years ago. Sometimes I don't even believe it when I am living it every day. Time goes by so fast. And yet, it seems like I've been wiping bums forever.

It's now 5 pm. I was able to shower and dry my hair this afternoon, which is an anniversary miracle. The boys are dressed in cute matching clothes and are excited about going to the circus. About an hour ago, Simon took off his diaper and pooped on the floor. It was creamy and such a treat to clean up. But it's clean now and we are ready to head out the door and meet Daddy for a fun night out on the town. It's going to be bloody hot, I am sure. But we'll be together-- something that makes us all happy and that's all that really matters.

If I was on the ball, I would upload pictures of our wedding day- or our trip to Vegas when I was pregnant with Ben- or least of all- a shot of the creamy poop smashed in the carpet. But I am not on the ball. Not today. Today I am just grateful to have survived thus far... grateful to be a mom to four handsome, busy boys...grateful to be expecting a baby girl who, I am sure, will make our lives even more chaotic when she arrives... grateful to have married the man I did 11 years ago. None of this would be worth it without him by my side.

Now if only he would hurry home and take us away from all our troubles!!

mother dear, I love you so.

My mom celebrated her birthday in Chile today. It's hard to know what to get your mom when she's so far away. We decided instead of buying her any gifts (which we wouldn't want to send overseas anyway) as her children, we would SERVE someone in her honor on her birthday. If there is anything my mother is a great example of, it's service. She is always thinking of something she can do for someone, always putting others needs before her own. Today she spent her entire birthday as a missionary in a foreign land-- and she said it was a perfect day. Of course she would say that.

We were able to talk to her for a minute before she fell asleep and we told her about the nice things we did for our neighbors today, although none of them were life-changing acts. My mom never spent tons of money on others. She wasn't usually making goodies and delivering them (although her bread was famous in the neighborhood). Instead she taught us, by example, that it's the little things that matter. She doesn't have a long list of talents that could be performed on a stage, but she is the best listener. She doesn't judge or criticize. She is always there for you when you need her, giving of her TIME, which is the hardest thing to sacrifice. She is the most uplifting, faithful, encouraging, strong, hardworking, fearless woman I know. I am so proud to call her mom.
This picture might not mean anything to you, but it's dear to my heart. On the day of her mission farewell, my little family said our goodbyes right after church. Everyone was in the house mingling & eating and Bev was no where to be found. It took me a minute to realize that Simon was also missing. I looked outside in their driveway and found both of them in my car. While Grandma Bev was giving Simon his last few kisses, she noticed his diaper was smelling ripe. Instead of handing him off to anyone else or even telling me that it was time for a change, she headed straight out to my car, found my diaper bag and changed him herself. This is SO typical of my mom. Had I not caught her with poopy wipes in her hand, no one would have ever known! She is quietly serving behind the scenes and never expects any credit for any good she does. And she is always doing so.much.good.

This picture I love too, although I can't remember what was so funny. Our last conversations with her weren't teary in the least. We were laughing and hugging and wishing each other the best of luck. She is SO HAPPY to be where she is doing what she's doing... that is also very typical of my mom. She lives in the present and is genuinely HAPPY to be exactly where she is, no matter the circumstances. I hope I can grow up and be just like her someday.

The kids drew birthday pictures today and we emailed them to her. I thought I would include them on our blog for family history's sake... We're thinking of you today, Grandma Bevie! Work hard, be safe and never forget how much we love you!

living on the ledge

one of these boys is NOT a good influence on the other....

Climbing the ledge of the upstairs banister is super dangerous, for any skilled 5 year old. I shudder just thinking about my 18 month old, wearing only a diaper, scaling across this tiny ledge with his little feet. I am so grateful they are both okay. That Zack is mighty influential. And Simon is super brave!

Yesterday, I caught Zack dancing in his bedroom in front of our eight year old neighbor girl.. completely naked.

A few hours later, he was unloading the dishwasher. When he was just about finished he turned to me and said with a big happy grin, "The only things left in the dishwasher are things you can murder people with."

gripen

Pregnancy {really} is such a miraculous thing. Either it's gotten worse for me each time or I've forgotten how bad it was with my first couple. I don't want to complain or anything, but it really does a number on me. I can't believe I'm still nauseous 22 weeks along. Yesterday was a bad day-- when evening came, I was so looking forward to getting some sleep. Sad to say, it wasn't a restful night whatsoever. I spent a good hour (from 3-4 AM) in the bathroom hugging the toilet. My kind husband was awake during that time too.. trying to help however he could. After the intense vomit-session, Aaron brought me up a cold glass of water. I had one sip and couldn't handle any more. I kept asking him if it was really just water and he continued to say yes. It tasted like syrup-- so sweet and sugary. That will tell you how strong the acids are in my tummy... throwing up burns my esophagus and makes my throat feel like it's on fire.. and afterward water tastes like kool-aid. If you need more detail on my adventures in puke, I'd be happy to email you directly. Oh, and remind me to tell you about my bladder problems... (I pee my pants often.)

One of the more difficult things for me during pregnancy is my lack of motivation to talk to others-- strangers, close friends, family members. I am using up all my energy to take care of my kids, there's just nothing left over for socializing. I honestly have to force myself out the door to go somewhere... if it's not because I am feeling sick, it's because I just don't want to talk to anyone. Once I get out, I am counting down the time until I can go home and crawl back into my cocoon. It's not that I am feeling shy, I am usually annoyed.. and I hate feeling like that. It's not just out in public either, I find myself getting super agitated with my kids too. If they talk too close to me or chew something too loudly, I have to restrain myself from freaking out. Last week, we met Aaron for lunch and he could tell I was not very excited to be out in public, especially with the kids. He said he can always tell a big difference in my personality when I am pregnant. I am less patient, snappier with the kids, unenthusiastic about everything I do... (etc, etc.) Of course the conversation bothered me and I told him that he doesn't know half of it. For everything I am verbally acknowledging, there are ten things that are annoying me that I am not talking about. Everybody better watch themselves... I own a staple gun.

I could rant and whine all day, but I must go. My toddler is using the duster to paint the wall with toilet water. Happy Tuesday, folks.

children's books I love.

classic picture books that are worth buying (to read over and over again):

The Giving Tree
The Little Red Hen
Grimm's Fairy Tales
Aesop's Fables
The Emperor's New Clothes
Anything Dr. Suess
Hansel and Gretel
Jack and the Beanstock
The Little Engine that Could
The Ugly Duckling
The Princess and the Pea
Three Billy Goats Gruff
Rumpelstiltskin
Three Little Bears/Pigs

These books each have a moral or value to teach the kids. There are hundreds more, but that is a quick list of our favorites.

Classic chapter books we've read together in the last year:

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
*Great Expectations
Where the Red Fern Grows
*Rip Van Winkle
Pinocchio
Winnie-the-Pooh series
The Wind in the Willows
Little Women and Little Men (my boys liked Little Men better, I favor Little Women :)
The Christmas Carol
*Oliver Twist
Chicken Little
Robin Hood
Anne of Green Gables (a favorite of all of ours... yes, even the boys!)
The Swiss Family Robinson
Fabelhaven Series
*Robinson Crusoe
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Black Beauty
Ender's Game
The Chronicles of Narnia (we only read one and two)
*Gulliver's Travels
The Hiding Place
Laddie
*Moby Dick
Stuart Little
Peter Pan

I chose to read books this year that I had never had a chance to read myself... it made it more enjoyable for me because I wanted to know (along with the kids) what would happen next! The books with the * weren't the original works, but children's adaptation from the classic book. We've found them to be awesome-- and they usually have pictures to go along. We use the Great Illustrated Classics given to us by my mother.. After you read the story from these books, the originals are much easier to tackle!

Last night we started The Secret Garden. Because the weather is just so warm and breezy, we headed out to the trampoline with blankets, pillows and a flashlight. I was only planning on reading the opening chapter, but we couldn't stop until chapter four. Ben said in the middle of chapter three, "This is better than I thought it would be. I was worried it was only going to talk about flowers." After reading, I remembered I had extra glow sticks in the kitchen and decided now was the best time as any to use them. The kids partied all night out there. No, literally... they fell asleep and slept outside. Well, Ben came in around midnight because he wasn't comfortable and Zack came inside around 3 am. Luke made it until the sun came up this morning.

Our master bedroom window is directly above the trampoline in the backyard. As we turned off our lamps, Aaron and I could hear the boys giggling outside. It reminded me of all the sleepless nights my siblings and I had on a trampoline just like this one. My parents would sleep with their deck door open and my dad would always stick his head out and tell us to "Be Quiet!" I rather enjoyed going to sleep to the sound of giggling, rambunctious boys. This is exactly what childhood is all about. Too bad I am too old and pregnant to sleep with outside with them.



Hope this list helps, Terica!
*ps. We never, ever, ever read with the baby awake. I also have been known to exclude any child (zack) who is being naughty during reading time. It's a mean punishment to send the to bed while the rest of us are having a reading party, but it's been a quick cure to bad behavior. Sometimes I still have to give warnings, but they are usually very quiet while I read...

Happiness is Homemade

just when I think life will slow down, a million little (and some big) responsibilities land in my lap. We've been super busy around these parts. Home improvement projects, end of the "school year" activities, church assignments, and family coming in town EVERY weekend to visit. Just after Cindy and Matt left yesterday, we calendared out the rest of June... and life isn't going to slow down any time soon. We have had (and will continue to have) a rotating door on our guest room. As soon as I wash the sheets from the previous visitors, someone new is here to stay! And we love it!

Needless to say, I have been feeling MUCH better. I am still throwing up a few times a week, but nothing compared to a few months ago. The baby is moving and kicking all of the time and I have so much more energy-- which I am sure is exactly why I am going overboard in the house cleaning/home improvement projects. It's like I've been trapped in my own personal cage for 4 months and someone has finally let me out! I have been cooking up a storm and I know everyone in my house is happy about it. In fact, this morning before church, Ben and I were cutting up potatoes and carrots for the meal afterward. He paused for a second and said, "I am so glad you're feeling better!" I thought it was such a genuine and sweet comment. Then he followed it up by, "It seems like all you wanted to do before was lay around all day." He has really had to pick up the slack around the house and I am sure he's ready for a break! and I am thrilled to give it to him.

Speaking of household responsibilities-- I was talking with a few friends the other night about the dreaded chore of bringing in groceries from the car. I was telling them to wait just a few more years until their children are old enough to carry them in for you. My kids are SO good about unloading the car when we get home from any errand running... one of the girls jokingly asked if my boys put all the groceries away and separate the meat when I buy it in bulk. "No they do not," I answered. "But that is a brilliant suggestion." Last week, my boys had their first tutorial on how to separate raw meat. I was there for it all, but didn't have to touch a single slimy breast! yay for me!


The wall hanging in the background of these pictures has been in my kitchen for the past few months. It reads "Happiness is Homemade". I have known that to be true for some time now, but it seems like recently I've savored these little moments I have with my children. They are growing so tall and mature. Ben will turn ten next month and that blows my mind. They're not going to be around much longer and I am trying to cherish all the little memories we are making together.

We finished reading Peter Pan last week. What a fabulous, beautifully written story. We've all seen in it cartoons, but there is something about the written word that brings a different perspective to life. I absolutely LOVED what I got from the book. In fact, during the last few chapters, I had to keep myself from bursting out in tears. It's such a simple make-believe story, but there is truth in the pages and it spoke to me. Wendy's role in Neverland was so poignant, so powerful. She was brought to Neverland to become Mother to all of the Lost Boys. Before she came, they didn't know what a bedtime story was. She tucked them in at night and gave them their medicine (which was usually water) but somehow it always made them feel better. Captain Hook and his pirates were so jealous that they wanted to capture Wendy and keep her for their own Mother. Everyone needs a Mother!

This story made me grateful for the loving, nurturing mother who raised me. She was up EVERY morning before school cooking me a hot breakfast. At times, I felt annoyed that she was shoving scrambled eggs and toast in my lap when I was trying to dry my hair... and I am ashamed of myself now for being so unappreciative of her early morning labors. But now as I am a Mother, I understand how important it is to be there... to let your children know that you will always be there, no matter what. They will eventually grow up and leave the nest, but you will still ALWAYS be their Mother. And for that I am so grateful.

The only thing I have been able to do well these past few months is read to my children. I don't know what it is about crawling into bed next to them and reading a meaningful or silly or sometimes emotional story that makes me feel so warm inside, but I think it has something to do with the fact that Happiness is Homemade. When I am reading a story aloud- I feel as though I am doing the very thing I was sent here to do. To me, it's a real apology for snapping at them early that morning or making them do the dishes when they would rather play all day long. It doesn't matter what the story is or how long I read, it matters that I stop whatever I am doing that I think is important and say goodnight properly. Of course, it doesn't happen every night, but I've realized that I've yet to regret a single night I've read to my kids. There are plenty of other things I've done late at night that are not worthy of my time, but reading a classic book aloud to my children is one of the most time-worthy things I can do as a Mother.

A little while ago, I was emailed by a friend (hi Terica!) who asked me for advice on what books to read to her children this summer. I never got a chance to respond, and I wish I had the time to do so now-- but my husband is finally home and my kids are begging to do something as a family. so stay tuned for a list of my favorite books to read. If I don't get around to it any time soon, pick a book- any book- off the shelf and start reading! I promise you won't regret it.

today's check list

wake up early and walk the dog. strike one.
sweep and mop the floors. check.
go to Home Depot for the third time in three days. check.
put knobs on all the bathroom cabinets. check.
fix the toilet paper holder in the boys bathroom. check.
change 8 poopy diapers. check.
bathe the red-bummed baby 3 times. check.
shower and get ready. strike two.
wash and fold a few loads of laundry. check.
watch Can't Buy Me Love while folding laundry. half check.
take a nap. check.
finish the ward newsletter. check.
listen to the boys' reports on their favorite animals. check.
staple the loose material under the couch. check.
return the redbox movies that we've had for too long. check.
make an appointment with a new midwife. check.
quiz on times tables. check.
make breakfast, lunch and dinner. check.
enjoy talking to my husband for 20 minutes in between work and church. check.
buy a bag of Sonic ice. check.
wash the sheets in Cindy's old room for her return. check.
read the last chapter of Peter Pan to the kids. check.
say family prayer. check.
kiss my little men goodnight and tuck them in their beds. check.
go to bed at a decent hour. check.
blog with pictures. strike three. I'm out.