oh, what a night.

Getting up in the middle of the night with a throwing up child is bad, but getting up in the middle of the night to throw up yourself is worse. The flu has finally come my way. And what better time for it to hit than right in the middle of a ward party? a party that I happened to be in charge of. oh well. I left right after it started and had a party at home with the toilet.

A big thanks to Aaron for staying at the party to clean up and then coming home to take care of me. You know someone loves you when he gets out of bed at 2 am to fetch you a glass of water and make you a piece of toast. What a mighty good man I have.

The highlight of my miserable night was reading an incredibly awesome book while laying in bed. I finished it in less than 24 hours and I loved it. The Hunger Games is leagues above the Twilight series. The author knows how to write in complete sentences, the love story is riveting, and the main character is actually a three dimensional heroine rather than some lame, ditzy girl without a personality. If you haven't read The Hunger Games yet-- do so. It's sequel, Catching Fire will be released in September. I cannot wait.

roughing it

Question: What's worse than your 3-year-old throwing up at 1 am?

Answer: Your 3-year-old throwing up at 1 am, 2 am, 3 am 4 am....

I am not sure I am cut out for this motherhood thing anymore. I guess I should have taken a hint when Zack said his tummy didn't feel like eating dinner. I thought he was trying to weasel his way out of eating his broccoli. That kid has all kinds of tricks up his sleeve. I made him eat all of his broccoli- and then some. And he punished me later.

He originally fell asleep on the top bunk- which has never happened in the history of his 3 years. He sat up, threw up on himself, his favorite truck pillow and football blanket (and the rest of the bedding on the top bunk.) THEN he leaned over the railing and coated the bottom bunk with a second round. How fortunate am I that I had spent the entire day washing all of the bedding? Company had just left and I was feeling pretty good about having a spotless house. Suits me right. Zack is constantly making me say things such as, "I should have never cleaned that in the first place."


He does have a few good qualities though. Zack is still the family comedian and we can't get enough of silly statements. It's amazing that his enthusiasm can last ALL DAY long. Toward the end of the day (especially when I am making dinner) he can be so annoying. While making a mess instead of setting the table, I asked him if he needed to take a time out because he wasn't listening. He locked eyes with me and said, "Nope, but I will take a popsicle." It's those kind of sentences that keep me from disciplining him.

He has inherited the job of unloading the dishwasher. He does excellent, but usually gets side-tracked before its empty. I swear he has to go potty only when it's time to unload the dishwasher. The other day, Ben and Luke were finished with their chores and headed to the backyard to jump on the trampoline. Zack was just starting to tackle the dishwasher when he announced the he needed to use the bathroom. I rolled my eyes and told him to hurry up. He ran towards the direction of the bathroom, and then quietly turned the corner, and tiptoed back to the sliding glass door (which happens to be 3 steps away from the dishwasher.) He was slowly opening the door- ever so quietly- when I caught him. I said, "Zack, I thought you had to go to the bathroom." He gave a sly smile and said, "I was thinking about... (long pause) going pee outside?" The last three words turned that sentence into a question and I just couldn't help but laugh out loud. He knows that his personality gets him out of trouble, but I am trying to stick to my guns and not show how much I actually adore him.

In June, Zack had a big accident. He dropped the toilet seat on his boy parts. This has happened before-- several months ago, he came out from the bathroom explaining that the toilet hurt him for no reason. But apparently it didn't teach him the importance of pulling up his underwear before putting the seat down (or at least backing away from the toilet.) When it happened the second time, it was no laughing matter. I thought for a second that he wasn't going to be able to have children. He came running out from the bathroom unable to breathe. Seriously, it was scary. I laid him down on the couch and tried to examine the damage. It was bad. A large purple blood blister was forming, practically the size of the top of his penis. I tried to get a hold of Aaron, but he was unavailable. I probably should have taken him to the doctor. Instead, I iced it, told him a couple of stories and put him down for a nap. When he woke up, it looked much better. The blood had gone away, but it left a dark mark there for several weeks. Slowly, it got smaller and smaller. When we went camping two weeks ago (still have yet to post pictures) we sent Zack into the tent to change into his swimsuit. Minutes went by and we heard the zipper to the tent door open. Out comes a totally naked child with a HUGE smile on his face. His hands went up in the air and he shouted (for all those around us to hear) "MY WIENIE IS GETTING BETTER!" We all gave him a high-five and then sent him back into the tent to put clothes on. Looks like he might turn out normal, after all.

Zack is a total wiz on the computer. He knows most of the keys on the keyboard and if Ben and Luke tell him HOW to spell things, he can maneuver his way around. His favorite website lately is called Poptropica. He will turn on the computer, click on the internet, type in P-O-P in the search tab and then he knows the rest of the word will show up. He has to scroll down a few links to the site he wants, but he always knows where he's going. It's amazing. In fact, Ben and I were laughing the other day because Zack was typing out something slowly on the keyboard and Ben said, "Isn't it weird that he knows how to type, but he can't sing the alphabet song?" I didn't know he didn't know his ABC's. I asked Zack to try to sing it and he enthusiastically shouted, "A-B-C-D's" and then stopped and shrugged his shoulders. Poor kid has never been allowed to watch Sesame Street or Barney because those shows are too childish for his older brothers. It's too bad the characters on Star Wars don't bust out with the alphabet song while they are trying to save the galaxy.

Ben's Baptism

I think it's best said through the pages of his own book
(given to Ben by the Primary Presidency)

A few things that aren't mentioned (because Ben wasn't really aware how CRAZY the morning actually was.)

* We had a big blueberry pancake breakfast at our house before the baptism. That was probably a mistake. Cereal is best when you're in a rush. I also decided last minute to do food at the church instead of bringing everyone to our home afterward. A good decision, I believe... but it made things crazy. I made 4 dozen cupcakes for Ben's traditional flag cake, but because there was no time, I asked my sis in law frost them and bring the strawberries/blueberries to the church.

* We arrived at the church 2 minutes before it started. Ben hadn't changed, Aaron's white pants were too tight so he had to wear a jumpsuit (he's really put on the pounds since we got married :) Aaron tried to remain calm while changing in the bathroom with Ben. He really didn't want to make him more nervous than he already was.

* As soon as Cody and Jake arrived with the cupcakes- bless her heart- I sent her BACK to my house to retrieve the baptismal certificate that we left on our mantle. Talk about spacing it.

* Ben and Aaron had changed, my mom and sister arrived with her four little girls, Cody and Jake were on an important errand-- and the baptism had started. But WHERE were Aaron's parents? I ran out into the foyer to call them.

* Aaron's mom who was the first speaker on the program didn't realize it started at 10:00 am. She was at a copy shop making copies for her talk. When I told her it was starting NOW and they had just announced her name to speak, they rushed to the church. I went back to sit by my kids in the chapel.

* Opening prayer was said, opening song was sung-- and it was Brandy's turn to speak. Aaron turned around to look at me and I told him I would go up and bear my testimony... excusing her from being late. Luckily, as I went to stand up, she walked into the chapel. She asked me when it was her turn and I said- "NOW!" She walked up the the pulpit and gave an excellent talk. It was a mini-miracle she walked in when she did.

* As the crowd was heading from the chapel to the baptismal font, I grabbed Ben and Aaron for the quickest photo ever. Then handed off the camera to Cody (who had just returned with the recommend) and asked her to take a quick photo of the family. Those were the only shots we took at the church. Too bad. My little neices looked so cute in their dresses... and we didn't get any of Ben with his grandparents.

* While Ben and Aaron are in the font about to perform the ordinance, everyone is looking at ME asking me where their towels are. Why are you asking me? Am I the MOM or something? I shrugged my shoulders and said out loud- "I didn't bring any towels."

* While Ben and Aaron were changing from their wet clothes, drying off with a swim towel my sister happened to have in her car, I was in the kitchen getting the food ready. I had lots of helpers. We decorated the flag cake and set up everything as quickly as we could.

* Aaron gave a wonderful confirmation. He said (and strongly felt) that there were many people who had passed on who were looking down on Ben, feeling just as proud of him as we were.

* I was so happy to have so many people show (there were at least 50) but I think I was uptight because we had invited non-member friends. Two families in particular who had never stepped inside an LDS church. I wanted them to feel comfortable and spent ALL my time talking with them.. so I didn't get to say THANKS to everyone else who came.

* It was a great day, so fortunate to have it on Indepedence day AND his birthday. It was totally an odd experience for me. I didn't cry... didn't feel the least bit emotional. It was as if I was having an out-of-body experience. I was watching myself watch MY son get baptized. I wasn't old enough for this, and obviously not mature enough. I just sat back and wondered how I got lucky enough to be his mother. He seemed so old. Not 8 years old, but really old, like a miniature man. I knew he was making the right choice and that he was old enough to make that decision for himself. This was just one of the steps he will take in his life and I feel privelaged enough to witness it. I love Ben and look up to him in so many ways. How crazy is that to say about someone who is half my size?

We have lots of pictures from the rest of the day.. cousins, great food, fireworks, apple pie, Ben's new bike... but those will have to wait until I have recovered. Happy baptism, Ben! We are so proud of you!!

Wes the Weasel

Calling all Bachelorette fans. Believe it or not, our dish went down this weekend. We didn't even realize until Monday morning because we had a busy weekend with birthday festivities, family in town, a baptism... etc. Aaron was frustrated because he wasn't able to see the fabulous Wimbledon finale and I was freaking out a bit because even the local channels weren't coming in... which means no Monday night Bachelorette. Lucky for us, we have the internet.

I haven't seen the entire episode yet. But I plan on watching it as soon as I get a spare 2 hours in the day.. I do know that Wes FINALLY went home. And I saw his exit interview. What a weasel. I have no idea what to think of the final three. I still like Ed the most-- but it really bothers me that he never makes eye contact with Jillian. Should I be surprised that Reid is still in the running? And is Kiptyn gay or not? Please share your thoughts..

Our satelite is finally working again-- a little too late. At least I can record the MJ funeral.

And yes, I will eventually post pictures of my kid's baptism. First things first.

my guinea pig

Dear Benjamin,

Tomorrow you turn eight. I should say it's hard to believe, but you've been counting down for 158 days now-- and it's about TIME your 8th birthday is here. Whenever your brothers have a birthday, it seems shocking they're a year older. I have never felt that way with you. When your birthday arrives, I find myself asking, "Hasn't he already been (8) for some time now?" You were born wise beyond your years.

Eight years ago today I was planning a big event for work. I made what seemed like a million party favors for a local non-profit organization and called it a day at lunchtime. I got home a few hours before Daddy and decided to go swimming. I waddled to the pool, relaxed like a whale on the beach and got sunburned. Then I went home, showered and got ready for a 4th of July party with some of Daddy's friends. While at the barbecue, I got a stomach ache and asked if we could leave early. Little did I know those stomach cramps were actually contractions!

When my water broke at 11:00 pm on July 3rd, I was shocked. You were more than two weeks early. I wasn't ready to have a baby yet! I had parties planned for the 4th of July and I wasn't expecting to spend my evening at the hospital. But you wanted to come anyway. We quickly packed a bag and informed our family and friends that we had more important plans for Independence Day. Boy, oh boy! You were born at 7:09 am, weighing 7 lbs 9 oz. Hot air balloons filled the Provo morning sky.

The nurses nick-named you Harry because you had a beautiful mop of black hair. You were the cutest baby I had ever seen. Eight years later (and two brothers to compare) you still take the prize for the most beautiful newborn. Because it was a holiday- and because you were so popular- our hospital room was packed full of visitors. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, neighbors. We didn't get a moment to rest. It was a perfect holiday. We watched fireworks from the hospital window and felt so happy that you joined our family on such a special day.

Each year since, we've celebrated with HUGE parties. Over 100 people showed up to your 1st birthday (see what I mean when I say popular?) At that party, Daddy announced we were expecting baby #2. It's crazy to think how ready you were for a sibling. You were still a baby. But there isn't an older brother in the world better than you. It is your secret talent-- your superhero power. In fact, I am not sure your brothers would still be alive without you... you have practically raised them single-handed. You tell them where to put their toys, how to behave in public, what is acceptable to watch on TV, how to comb their hair, when to apologize, when to go to time out, when to fall asleep.. the list could go on for pages. You were born wanting to follow all the rules. You are an incredible example to all of us.

There is NO DOUBT about the fact that you have taught me far more than I have taught you over the past 8 years. You have always been more mature than me. You constantly tell me HOW things should be done and I hate it that you're right. Lately, while sitting in the back seat, you will ask me how fast I am driving. When I tell you, you sigh and say, "Good. You are only driving 3 miles over the speed limit." You are the family police officer. You are my go-to kid. You have yet to tell me a lie. With three boys, I usually get three different stories of what actually happened... and I know just who to believe. Thank you for being so obedient, so kind, so dependable. Out of the billions of children who have come to this earth, you were hand-picked for me. God knew I wouldn't be able to survive without you. I look up to you so much and truly consider you one of my best friends.

I have never really been able to discipline you. Granted, you have done a few things wrong, but you punish yourself more than you deserve. I remember one time when you were about 5 years old. Luke was 3 and the two of you were busy making crafts at the kitchen table. I was feeding Zack in the high chair and had my back to the two of you as you used your scissors to cut the screen on the sliding glass door. When I realized what you were doing, I was completely speechless. Had it been Luke doing it alone, I would have scolded and spanked.. but YOU were helping him! I honestly didn't have a chance to say a word. I just watched as you dropped your scissors, knelt down on the kitchen floor and sobbed. You kept saying over and over, "I don't know why I did that! I wasn't thinking, mom!" I rushed over and tried to comfort you. Your cute little face was covered by your hands. You wouldn't look at me. I kept telling you over and over that it wasn't a big deal, but you wouldn't listen. After a minute, I laughed at the situation. Here I was, sitting on the kitchen floor with my five year old, trying to console rather than lecture him about ruining our screen door. It didn't seem right. Later that night, at the dinner table, you broke down in tears again as you told Daddy what happened. I tried not to smile as I looked at Dad with my hands in the air and told him I didn't do any disciplining... In fact, I spent the afternoon trying to distract you with fun activities so you wouldn't think about the crime you had committed. Raising you is a privilege. You made my transition into motherhood easy. And as time passes, it gets better.

This year is a special one, Ben. You have the opportunity to be baptized on your birthday. You could not be more excited or more prepared. I know your Father in Heaven is so proud of you and the decisions you have made so far in your life. You still have a lot to accomplish. You can do whatever you put your mind to-- even if that's being a paleontologist AND a prophet at the same time! I can't wait to see the man you become. One of these days, your body is going to match your grown-up personality. I look forward to all the lessons you have yet to teach me (and your younger brothers.) Keep up the good work. Continue to laugh until you can't breathe. Don't ever forget how much I love you.

Happy birthday, son.

Mom