JULIE'S JEWLS!

Home Rennovations with the hired help!

2011-06-28T16:35:00.005-04:00

Our "hired help" being Rob's parents--Brian and Launa. They were so awesome to come out for a week and help me complete so many home improvement jobs. We accomplished so much in their time here, I really wish I could fly them out twice a year...once for home improvements and once for just a fun visit! Here are some pics thanks to Launa who documented the chaos and fun from the week. I was so grateful to them both. Brian worked in the kitchen non-stop and Launa tackled ALL my laundry (which she can attest to being many loads) and basically allowed Carys to be her buddy all week. Carys really needed the extra love and attention, so I am glad Launa was so patient with her many pleas to "play a game." We did have some time to eat out and watch a movie, so I didn't' crack the whip too much! ;) I hope they don't decide to never come back because it sure was fun that week.

Summer has begun!

2011-06-28T16:10:00.003-04:00

I began this spring telling myself that we would have a slow leisurely summer, but all the while knowing that is very difficult being me. So, summer has officially begun. I have been looking forward to this summer because I feel I can really enjoy some time with my kids after, what I felt, was a busy year. The first 2 afternoons alone were the LONGEST days ever! But, alas, that was just two days without a plan. Now, I have a plan. A plan to do nothing some days, but a plan to do plenty. Don't get me wrong, we still have tons on the schedule and i am telling myself it is all for the kids, but I know it is so I can get out, not to have to clean my house, or make the day fly by. I am enjoying it. So far...

We are playing a lot. (pool, parks, friends, spray parks)

My house is messy a lot. (renovations, company/visitors, toys and more toys, and towels oh, the towels!)

We are learning a lot. (respect, boundaries, gratitude, reading, and math)

My kids eat a LOT!!! (chips, milk, pancakes, cereal, yogurt, milk, milk, milk, anything you can pass off as food they inhale!)

Cameron screams a lot. (He gives us all headaches and we are all happy for nap time!)

I love family time a lot. (movie nights, cook-outs, pool weekends, fhe, and tickle/wrestle time)

I think this summer I am going to grow a lot...and so are the Morgans!

I love that Captain is just looking at Cam like, "why aren't you wearing any pants?"

The token toddler in goggles shot...you know you have 1 or 2 or 3 of your own kids!

Last Day of School Messy-Party and Tina's visit!

2011-06-24T16:12:00.007-04:00

A while ago a friend posted some pictures of their pudding painting summer fun and I haven't been able to get it out of my mind! I just had to do something messy! I decided the last day of school is a great occasion for such a fun activity! I started only inviting neighbors since they can run home and clean off when finished, but I ended up opening it up to a few close friends, too. Tina and her kids came to visit and I was so glad they were here for it! If anyone ever wants to repeat it, here are a few of the things I did. I will add some activities (and kids) next year when I do it (yes, I think it will be an annual thing, so mark your calendars) since now I know that the kids are totally up for getting dirty! oh, the things I can come up with...parents will hate me!!! (insert my evil laugh here). The kids each brought a towel and can of whipped cream. They each filled two pie plate with cream to start and they lined up to throw their pies. Next we had them split into teams and paint their faces with cool whip. The partner was supposed to throw cheetos a the cool whip faces to see how many stuck. unfortunately, we live in 80% humidity and the cool whip was melting straight off their faces...oh well, they ate the cheetos instead--crisis averted. We had a pudding painting station on the side of the house with two tubs of pudding, both chocolate and vanilla. They could hose off in the slip n slide and the pool. I added a little bit of chocolate syrup to the slide so it was extra fun. They grabbed whatever messy materials were left (syrup, pudding, cool whip, water) and basically played war and chase until it was all gone! It was pretty funny to watch the kids go at it! We ended with root beer floats. It all cleaned up really quickly with the hose and lasted about 1.5 hours. It was tons of fun and a total success. I look forward to next year!

Carys needed a snack!

Carson is always all smiles...love it!

Luke is winding up for the kill!

1,2,3, throw! It was a sloppy mess!

Luke

Alysson even looks pretty covered in cool whip!

Carys

Luke and Nick H. getting ammunition.

Sam and TJ were the funniest of the group. They fought a good fight together!

Puppy palooza---carys turns 5!

2011-06-24T15:53:00.005-04:00

I gave in to Carys' pleas for a birthday party with friends. I was supposed to have the year off from party planning, but I caved. she wanted a puppy party and I gave her one. Her friends were coming with their favorite stuffed pet. They put on a pet show and introduced their animal and why they were special. The kids had to behave like dogs and ate out of bowls and went on a hunt for their doggy bags. Then they decorated their cupcakes like puppies. All in all it was a simple party the kids seemed to have a lot of fun.

Spring Break part 3--Morgans and Strongs in NC

2011-06-24T15:06:00.007-04:00

After our fun in FL, we were lucky to be able to coordinate a trip into the mountains to celebrate Uncle Mike's birthday and Easter! It was so much fun. Thanks to Aunt Courtney for planning it. We are hoping to make it a regular thing...or we were hoping, but now they are leaving us alone in the East for Utah in a year! I guess it will just be us and the Strongs next time and I would be alright with that! ;)

Cute Cousins...they are only about 4 months apart!

Our future biker...

Wes and Cam being cute and silly!

The East-coast Morgans!

The crew on top of Blowing Rock.

This was the cabin we stayed at...it was really nice!

No Easter is complete without dyeing some eggs!

I got to spend some time with Grady this trip and I was so happy to become buddies!

The kids are patiently awaiting their bday cake...uh, I mean bday pie!

Uncle Mike's birthday pie

Just a cute picture of my kids zonked out!

Wes

Uncle Rob attempting a spiritual Easter message for the kids!

The two beautiful girls...Addie and Carys

Mike wanted to go mountain biking...here is rob and below is Mike in the mountain. rob said Mike was in much better shape, but it was a lot of fun. I was almost worried he was going to take up another hobby! yikes!

We had so much fun!!!

Spring Break Part 2

2011-06-24T14:50:00.005-04:00

We arrived in Miami on Luke's 7th birthday. Papa Kevin had the room all decorated with balloons, banners, and bday stuff. It was fun. We had a bday party and Luke got the original boomerangs passed down from Da-Da...yes, they really work, too! It was a great day!

We went to the beach, of course. Cameron really enjoyed it and I enjoyed watching him play and giggle!

This is one of my favorite pictures of my little guy...so happy!

There is a wood pecker and a black bird that continually fought for this tree...the black bird won since my mom saw little baby black birds weeks after we left. The wood pecker was sure a sight to see each day, though.

Spring Break 2011-Disney and IOA

2011-05-24T21:19:00.005-04:00

We had a great spring break this year. We DROVE to Orlando to do Harry Potter World at Islands of Adventure (Luke's 7th bday wish) and then spent a day at Disney World (so Carys wouldn't feel too left out). After all of that excitement we spent a few days in Miami...we didn't even eat Cuban food! We ended our trip with a weekend (Easter) in the mountains with Uncle Mike, Aunt Courtney, the kids, and the Strongs. We had a blast! I will share some pics.

I must say that my idea of vacation has changed somewhat now that I have kids. Rob and I realized this as we ate at the T-REX cafe surrounded by roaring dinos and talking over fake meteor showers...it couldn't have been better. Family vacations are about the kids and family. Right now the kids are young and the trips must be fun. I really find myself longing to escape my daily routine and just get out to do fun trips with the kids. That is what vacation is about...too much cotton candy, late night swimming, cuddling in the afternoons, sunburns, license plate games in the car, silly songs and games, and lots of pictures! I feel like I am taking mental pics every time I head to Miami with my kids. I get to see them in my pre-adult life. I get to see them having some of the same conversations I had with my wonderful grandparents or playing the same games I played with my mom. I get to play with them at the same parks or swings. It is pretty amazing to relive your life as a mom through your kids eyes. I just love it. I feel so fortunate to have that opportunity.

Here are some pics from the first part of our trip...

Cameron basically cried if anyone but me or Rob held him...poor E-mom!

Luke couldn't keep his head up very well around the corners on Thunder Mountain...it was hilarious looking at the pics we got of him!

Carys is a bit of roller coaster lover...so far. It makes me proud!

Cameron's first merry-go-round ride.

Look at those lips!!!

E-mom and Luke of the pteranadon ride

The token shot of the kid sleeping in the stroller during a long day at a theme park.

We got soaked on the Jurassic Park ride...HUGE and surprising drop, but we all survived to tell the tale!

Harry Potter's world would not be complete if we didn't at least try "Butter Beer." It tastes like it sounds...buttery.

Cameron was on the loose outside of the restaurant--finally out of the stroller!

We are about to go inside Harry Potter World!

A whole new look!

2011-05-03T13:18:00.000-04:00

Well, I am finally working on my house. The sad part is that I had to send Rob away for the weekend to get it finished! JUST KIDDING! It was very last minute that Rob headed to UT to ski for the weekend. It was also very last minute that I ended up redecorating my whole main level in 2 days! I began painting and moving around some furniture and then voila!, a whole new world!

We began by moving the kitchen table into what is supposed to be the dining room off the front living room. At first it seemed like I lost space, but now I realize that the space was really only being used for toys and storage (ie. mess). I moved all of the toys out of the main level (do not even think I am showing pics of the rest of my house right now). We made a little sitting room in the kitchen...which I LOVE. We will get a TV in there and now I can watch while I cook/bake. My kids can watch Saturday morning cartoons (if we ever have a leisurely Saturday morning again now that sports have taken over our lives). Plus, company can sit comfortably instead of standing around my island while I fuss in the kitchen. We put up new lighting, changed my hardware, and my friend graciously helped me make curtains. In fact, I owe the majority of this redo to her. She has a great eye for decorating and she is beginning a little business so I highly recommend her! The kitchen is a still a work in progress because I have to put 6 ft of wainscot (bead board) around the entire kitchen and redo my counter tops (paint or new laminate). I am also going to paint my stools red and extend my counter top on one end for more stools. I am so excited! I hope you like it.

Imagine white bead board as my back splash and heading half way up my window.

Again, imagine 6 ft of bead board leaving only 3 ft of chocolate on the top!

My Boy Scout!

2011-03-12T21:24:00.003-05:00

No, not Luke! Rob is the boy scout tonight! In case you forgot, (since it has been so long since I have posted) I have a 16 month old BOY!!! He is proving to be quite the little mischief maker. His new favorite pastime is to drop things in any body of water--the toilets, the dog's water bowl, the tub, and cups of liquid. Well, he has clogged up two of our bathrooms (of course the two that guests use) with who knows what. As it turns out, Rob had to take the toilet off to get the powder room up and running.

This is a picture of the project. Don't forget that Luke decided that it would be OK to use the clogged toilet (not pee) as long as he didn't flush. Well, let's just say he flushed and this job became a contender for a spot on the show "Dirty jobs." G-R-O-S-S!!!

Rob discovered that it was a toothbrush that he had put down the toilet. Some how it got lodged into an "S" shaped pipe. It was stuck in the middle of the curve and both of us tried to push it down or pull it out. It was impossible...or so it seemed.

Rob created a lasso. He even burned the end of the knot so it wouldn't come out. Then he used a wire hanger to help the line go around the end of the toothbrush. He tightened the lasso and it worked!!! He pulled it out!

So he is my hero (for fixing the toilet), your hero (so you don't have to venture into the abyss I call my room to use my bathroom), and my boy scout (for figuring out an awesome way to get that toothbrush out). I even let out a woot and a holla when it came out covered in poo and all!

boy vs girl

2011-01-17T21:11:00.003-05:00

The difference between a boy and a girl...

Boy: He sneezes and a huge wad of snot hangs from his nose and he swiftly wipes it on his arm, hand, shirt, sweater, or anything that is NOT a tissue. Even when a parent "commands" him to get a tissue...he will pretend to go to the bathroom and still NOT use a tissue. G-R-O-S-S with a side of YUCK!

Girl: She sneezes and a huge wad of snot hangs from her nose and she whines, "Oh!!! Not again!" Then she freezes with her head cocked in the air so it doesn't fall or touch any part of her clothing or hands. She yells and waits for someone to bring her a tissue or she shuffle walks to the bathroom to clean up WITH a tissue! Just G-R-O-S-S without a side of yuck!

NYE fun

2011-01-03T14:52:00.003-05:00

We had a fun time at an 80's NYE party this year. Rob had to admit he had fun dressing up...especially shaving his beard into a mustache. Many of you know Rob's secret love of the mustache and I quote, "Tom Selleck can rock a mean mustache, why can't I?" uh...perhaps Tom Selleck doesn't really rock the mustache at all, Rob, but it is more of a trademark. Anyway, we had a great time!

Christmas 2010

2010-12-30T23:14:00.009-05:00

Well, Christmas has come and gone and it has been one of the best! The magic of the season really descended on our home this year. We planned some great activities to do as a family, we didn't over schedule ourselves, we shopped early, and my family (mom and Kevin) came to visit! It has been WAY too long since I have blogged, but I am just going to start where I am.

Highlights:

Tree Trimming

Polar Express Kid Night complete with an awesome hot chocolate bar!

Temple Lights with some friends-

Christmas shopping and crafts- (pics from Black Friday are not downloading from my phone)

Rudolph play and Christmas Concert by the Choral Arts at the Kennedy Center

and of course...

Baking!!! (Vanilla bean angel pillows, mint chocolate chip cookies, cranberry white chocolate macadamia nut bars, orange kissed brownies)

CHRISTMAS MORNING was the BEST! !

I just loved these pics of the kids running down the stairs!

We had a lovely breakfast as a family before we went downstairs to open wrapped gifts.

Cam needs a break from all of this commotion!

Mom Mom and Dad Dad joined us as we opened presents via Skype!

Coursey and Mom rocking out to Rock Band

This air hockey table may be for the little ones, but the adults can sure have quite the battle, too!

It has been so much fun to have family here for Christmas this year. The kids have had undivided attention and always have someone to play their new games with. I was able to get all of the fuss of Christmas over so I could really enjoy the actual day. My biggest present has been my mom helping out so much around the house...she organized my entire kitchen! Merry Christmas!!!

What a dirty trick...my baby turned 1!

2010-10-31T21:30:00.005-04:00

Well, despite my constant begging and pleading, my kids just keep on getting older (which means I am too!). Cameron is no exception...he went and turned 1 without my consent! In some ways he has been a dream baby. In other ways not so much. He began life with a 7 day quarantine in my bedroom (H1N1 hit our home) which proved to be great bonding time. He was super quiet and easy until about 6 months and then each month he got a little more vocal and a slept a little less each night. Not sure why he stopped sleeping so great, but I am still battling it. (yes, we do the cry out and he cries it out while I listen in my bed at least twice a night). BUT, I digress...let's talk about his wonderful qualities! He is so cute with his dimples and 4 front teeth (he is just now getting 2 more)! He has blond little curls and just lights up a room with his giggle. He is extremely playful and LOVES kids. He does love his mom...A LOT...(translation: he doesn't let me leave him easily). He LOVEs his dad even more than me which oddly doesn't bother me at all...hee hee hee!

I sat down today to look at some of the pictures of my Cam 1 year ago...hospital pics mostly, but, I still remember it like it was yesterday. I think that is the curse of the last kid. You remember things much more clearly. Almost as if you are trying to permanently press them into your brain so you don't forget these years or how a newborn baby feels and smells. Cameron has been such a wonderful little guy in our home. I don't think Rob has been more attached to a baby. It probably helps that Cameron looks JUST LIKE HIM!

Anyway, my mom came into town to celebrate Cam's first birthday and Halloween. It was perfect timing for us to have grandma here. The kids just love the attention and I just love the distraction and entertainment of having her here. We didn't do a big birthday bash, but we did decorate cupcakes together and had some fun watching Cameron play with his new toys. He had SO much fun with his new stuff eventhough the older two kids could NOT stand him getting the attention. Here are some pictures you can see for yourselves!

Summer fun

2010-09-20T21:36:00.008-04:00

One day this summer was spent at Lake Anna crashing our friends, the DuBravacs, week long vacation. They were gracious enough to take us out skiing, take us boating, feed us a yummy dinner, and the guys even put on an end of the night fireworks display. We had a great time relaxing and hanging out on this gorgeous lake.

Me and the kids snacking on the boat!

Cameron can't ski yet but he can practice his grip on the rope!

Rob has a boot that is too tight on his ski, so he has to put it on in the boat. This was how he had to get into the water! Thanks to Shawn for helping dump him into the lake!

Our expert, Andrea, was able to lull Cameron to sleep on the boat...thank you!

Yep, that is me...take note bc it doesn't happen often. I was 8-9 months after having a baby...not too shabby, right?

The kids were awaiting the show!

Mmmm...I am so hungry, my toe is tasty!

Fireworks and sparklers...a perfect way to end the day!

We went to PA to visit my friend, Tina, and her cute family. We started at The Chocolate Factory in Hershey. We did lots of fun stuff including a splash park, swimming, and a park!

Carys at the splash park.
The kids were getting ready for the 3D movie...it was really good!
We ended our trip by getting drunk on chocolate! Note their gooey faces!

Carson is so cute!

Tina warms up Carson after the splash park!

Our trip to Utah 2010

2010-09-20T20:19:00.013-04:00

We had a great trip to Utah to visit our family. We went non-stop, but we had so much fun and the kids did too! For some odd reason, I can't get these pictures to move around so I can put them in order. They will just have to be out of order...sorry!

It all begins with a long day in airports and airplanes. The kids did a super job and we scored an extra seat for Cameron on both legs!

But, we had to do Carys' hair before we got on the plane...she always makes this face when I am combing her hair...so much drama!

Aunt Kayla practicing before her baby is born!

Rob and his first love!

We had lots of family dinners and that is when we did our catching up. We just sat around eating, laughing, and chatting. The kids just ran around playing and loving it!

It wouldn't be summer in Utah if the kids couldn't play in Grandpa and Grandma's back yard. They had the most fun running around with Zack and Finley, their cousins.

And a trip to Utah wouldn't be complete without a trip to the cowboy store!

We loved bowling with Grandma and Grandpa...note the awesome score of 136...mine all mine. I thought I was hot stuff with that score until my sister said, "Aw...that's cute Julie. Is that the highest you've ever bowled." Jerky! I stand by it and it was fun!

Note the two extremes...Carys calamity and Cameron calm.

Of course we did watch a couple of movies in the cozy basement!

And it wasn't hard to twist their arm to take out their boat to Pine View Dam...tubing, skiing, and picnics!

Cam got comfy enough for a nap on the boat!

Uncle Mike, Grandma, and me

All bundled up in his life jacket...funny picture!

After boating we headed to SLC (temple square) and then to dinner with Aunt Sarah and Uncle Justin. At least we have proof they ate the delicious Thai food!

Yep, Luke is playing the DSi...he begged after he ate and we gave in.

We spent the night in Park City and had so much fun. Luke jumping and Carys was not happy she was not big enough to participate...see below

She is yelling at me here bc she couldn't jump too!

Mmmm...snow cones!

We rode the Alpine slide and although, we had to convince Luke he would love it, we had a blast!

The kids begged to "swim in the tub" in the room!

Launa and I raced and she is a little more daring...I ate her dust!

Here is our fraidy cat boy who is loving the slide! We have video of his ride and it is really funny to watch his face on the way down!

Here is proof that I actually smiled on the lift to the top of the Alpine slide...heights are not my friend.

Luke on the rock wall.

Cameron and Grandpa bonding in Park City.

Cameron took a quick bath!

We were lucky to be in Utah for Aunt Sarah and Uncle Justin's bday celebration.

Anyone who is around Carys enough knows that "plumber crack" is a common occurrence...even in pjs! She had a nose bleed ALL DAY and so we just kept packing her nostrils with tissues. She didn't skip a beat and kept playing hard all day.

Launa planned a nice picnic in the park with the extended family. It was nice to catch up.

#2 nose bleed of the day...

We went up to Bear Lake to visit my father who was vacationing at my Uncle Mark's cabin. It was fun to see my brothers and my kids had fun hanging out. The cabin was beautiful eventhough I am not posting pics of it. Sabrina, my step mom, was a gracious hostess. Cameron really warmed up to them eventhough he was experiencing a phase of separation anxiety.

Grandpa Bergeson and Cameron

A large reason we went to Utah was to meet our new nephews...Brody and Matthew. It was surreal holding twins, but I fell in love instantly. They are such sweet little guys. Katy and Andy are lucky to have them in their lives.

Preschool

2010-09-17T20:54:00.004-04:00

Well, Carys had definite opinions about her first day of preschool. She was very up and down. When she met her teacher she responded, "This is not my class." Then she was super warm to her friend Lindsey as she met her with a pouty lip and a stink eye. Nothing makes a mom prouder! This first day is a short day and the parents stay the entire time for an orientation and such. She loved playing and doing the crafts in the classroom. On the way out she ended up in time out for being rude to me for the umpteenth time that day. I decided that she just didn't like all the changes...new classroom, new teacher, new kids (although she knew a lot of the girls and her best gal pal, Emma was there too). Among the bigger changes is that her best buddy, Luke, is gone all day, and basically life is not summer anymore. We talked a lot throughout the rest of the day about changes, attitude, and friendship. By Wednesday she was ready and thrilled to rock preschool...which she did, I might add. First day jitters are over and second day bliss stepped in! Here are some good pictures of our little sweetie before she pouted.

She looks all ready for preschool, BUT...

she turned into Monster-Carys the preschooler!

She looks so sweet and grown up here, I love this picture.

He sat like such an angel much of the time, then he had to get out and play with the big kids!

First graders rule!!!

2010-09-07T14:22:00.005-04:00

It is hard to believe Luke is in first grade. It seems like it was yesterday that he was toddling around my house using markers to decorate the walls and unloading drawers. Now he is marching to the bus stop cheerfully talking about who may be in his class this year. I am so very proud of my boy and can't wait to hear about his first day.

The tough first graders at the bus stop!

Since we planned our vacations for the last two weeks of summer we didn't have a lot of time to prepare for school. I felt a little sad that I didn't create some delicious hot breakfast or some fancy count-down thingy, but I did manage to squeak out a good spur of the moment lesson before school. I decided it is good enough to share and even repeat every year as our mantra for school/life success. They are my 3 B's of School: Be Confident, Be a Learner, and Be Kind. If he strives to do all three he will feel successful and make friends in nearly all environments, but particularly in school. I explained what confidence (believing in yourself and use that to make good choices) was and how it applied, but the other two are self-explanatory. Anyway, some may have better "send off" words of wisdom, like my personal favorite from a friend, "You are a child of God. You have the right to be treated like one. You have the responsibility to act like one," but I felt it encompassed what I deemed important this year for Luke's success.

Carys is a sass-box!

2010-08-09T22:19:00.004-04:00

And I do mean SASS! She gets it from me, I know she does. I recall many of moments in my life where my quick feisty words have landed me in a world of trouble...just ask my mom if she would like to replay my 7th grade year-err, don't ask her that :). I don't know if I started quite as early as this little girl, but still she gets it honestly. If she weren't so focused on being sassy and dramatic it wouldn't be so funny! She just really tries to show us she is piping mad...her face contorts to a full pout, she stomps her feet, growls, folds her arms, sticks out her tongue, and comes up with some pretty funny things to say. Now, for all of you who are NOT finding this sort of behavior funny-- first, lighten up! and second, I promise that I am NOT laughing at the time and she DOES land herself in time out often. We are working on it, but hey, a 4 year old girl has a lot to learn about life and this little one is trying desperately to assert herself lest she be squished out and forgotten as the middle child! (not that this little sweetie could ever be ignored)

Today she was throwing a fit about some bubble gum I wouldn't let her have. (last gum experience ended up on my mom's car floor and on her dress) I was being firm about my answer and she was NOT accepting my decision willingly! She started screaming at me and I told her she would have to go to time out if she continued. Well that made her start giving me ultimatums...
"Well, if you don't give me that bubble gum you aren't going to talk to Andrea tomorrow!" ( I guess she knows that she could lose her play dates if she pushes too much, huh? She also knows who my friends/playdates are, the little stink!)

Some of her favorite lines... " i am just not going to like anybody now!"

"I am so mad. RRRRRA! I am not going to be anyone's friend!"

"Well, if you ____, then I am going to stomp and not going to play with you, mom."

All in all, I am glad she is expressing herself, but we are still working on how to effectively do that. I do love her sass and all. In her defense, she is also one of the sweetest, cuddly, tenderhearted little girls. We love her so much!

A trip down memory lane...

2010-08-04T15:27:00.007-04:00

Aren't they just the cutest pair you have ever seen? So many of my childhood memories include trips with them. I used to come to their house in GA at least once, if not twice, a year. We waded in our undies in the freezing cold lake and Dad Dad let us wear his HUGE boots so our little toes wouldn't go numb. Coursey and I used to take turns spending a summer vacation with them in Baltimore at Mom Mom's brother's house. When it was our turn we were spoiled rotten...shopping sprees, eating seafood and crabs for dinner many nights, and riding Great Uncle's horses. It was on those trips that I learned to eat tomatoes like apples on the back porch and saw a real boomerang work. I worked puzzles and Dad Dad drilled me on my fractions and basically bonded with these wonderful people. Now, I am fortunate that my children get the chance to know them and even vacation with them!

This is the freezing creek we'd cross to go on our little adventures in the woods with my mom! Once we even crossed water by scooting across a fallen tree...so cool for a kid!

This was the bridge in the back of their property. There used to be a ladle hanging so we could get ice cold drinks!

Under the porch is a patch of red clay where doodle bugs buried. We used to sit under there and dig them up with spoons! My grandmother planted the Ivy and I think it looks awfully nice.
This is as close as we went, but my mom trespassed and snapped some pictures in the back.

Here we are at the front gate. It is funny how when you are small you see things as much bigger than they are. This driveway was rocks when we came up and it was SO BIG and NARROW! I remember closing my eyes so I didn't have to watch. Now, it is nothing but a small hill...funny.

Nine months

2010-07-29T23:13:00.001-04:00

I can hardly believe my baby is already 9 months! He hasn't been feeling well this week, but he is the cutest little guy with so much personality.

My baby began crawling a couple of months ago and like the mom of three that I am, I neglected to post about it or take pictures of it. This kid is so funny! Every time he does something new he feels like big man on campus. Here is a video of Cam standing up after he pulled himself up today...he loves it! It won't be long before he is walking!!! Such a cute little guy!

Cameron is not only moving around, but he is officially getting into my stuff. He pulls over baskets, opens cabinets, and puts everything in his mouth. He loves food of all kinds, but seems to particularly love MEAT! This just makes Rob the happiest daddy in the world. He is using his pincer grasp to self-feed. Is it just me or is this going much faster than it did the last 2 times?

One of my favorite things about Cameron is that he gives hugs and nuzzles into your neck. It is so sweet and cuddly.

He seems to have a great ability to focus. He will look at the smallest trinket and just examine it for 15 minutes!

He is saying Mama and Dada and babbling tons! I can't wait until I can communicate with this little guy!

He laughs on cue whenever I say, "Poo Stinky!" in silly voice and he is very ticklish. He has a tremendous laugh. His favorite person to giggle at is his big brother Luke. You can tell he enjoys life and I hope he always possesses the ability to go with the flow and laugh.

We just love every little bit of him. I am so smitten, that I cannot seem to let him cry it out in the middle of the night, which has always been an essential part of parenting in my house. (or else there were zero happy people living here) I think I need to reread my favorite sleep training book...Hmmm, where is it?

Pink eye strikes again!

2010-07-25T19:15:00.005-04:00

Our little guy has pink eye and it is so sad! I remember when Carys got it a couple of years ago and she looked similar. He has such a good attitude about it though. We had to speak in church today and since he came down with Pink Eye at the last minute we took him with us to Sacrament. He was an angel through the meeting. He did look like he was punched in the eye multiple times and I am sure there were more than a few people wondering what on earth happened to him. Needless to say we left directly after and hopefully we didn't spread any of the infection around the ward. I am not pleased to have such a jailing illness in the house...no gym, no pool, no play dates...nothing. Bummer! Hurry up and get better Cam because you are leaving me no choice but to clean!!!

Helen, GA part 2

2010-07-15T21:24:00.011-04:00

Horseback riding was really fun but we could barely walk after the hour ride. It was great when the horses went through the river! Luke was super brave on his horse. Carys rode with me, but Aunt Coursey has those pictures. I was proud of my kiddos!

Here are just some pictures of us around the cabin.

Carys and Luke cuddling with Mom Mom
Everyone has to have a picture of their baby in over sized sunglasses, right?

I love love LOVE this picture of my mom with Cameron.

Luke hanging with his buddy Papa Kevin!

This is Bear, the newest addition to the family, and he kept stealing Captain's bone. The cutest parts were that the bone was bigger than he was and Captain would wait patiently for him to finish before taking it back.

Dad Dad getting some Cameron time!
Introducing Bear, a mini long hair Dachsaund...sooo sweet and cute!

Rob is hot resident ranger...We wouldn't have Smores without him!
Coursey is always causing trouble...he he he!
One of my favorite guys!
Easy! I surrender! I promise not to whine for your smore again!
Mom Mom and Cameron waiting for smores!

This "hang on" and "lounge on" Papa Kevin was commonplace for my kids. He was a great sport and they ate it up!

We visited Baby Land General where Cabbage Patch kids are born and can be adopted. The building has moved and grown quite a bit since I was a kid. Carys seemed to enjoy it. We watched a "live birth" and one of the kids gave her a name! How we managed to get out of there without dropping wads of cash for a doll is beyond me....but I will take it!

Can you spot my baby?!

Aunt Coursey helped Carys view the birth.

Emom watched Cameron while we watched the show and walked around.
Carys had a tea party with her new friends.

The "cabbage patch" where the magic happens, I guess.

Do you think I'm finished posting about GA? Well, I am NOT! Stay tuned for all who care and to quote one of my favorite movies, "These are memories frozen in time people!" Can you guess the movie? Here's a clue...Seth Green is in it!

End of the school year festivities

2010-07-11T14:46:00.009-04:00

The time has come for school to be out for summer! We've already begun all of our summer fun, but the kids did have some fun times ending the school year.

Carys had a water party outside of her preschool.

She also had an end of the year program!

Lucas had an end of the year dance complete with suit and boutonniere. Don't worry, though, it wasn't a slow dancing kind of dance. They actually choreographed dances to songs for the kids to dance to. It was really cute. I have some videos I will share soon. It is funny because the little boys danced like they were kung fu fighting or doing gymnastics and the girls danced like they were ballerinas or stars! he is a handsome little devil though...I can say so because I'm his mom!

bust a move

The last day of school was a fun one. The kids got out early and we celebrated with our good friends the DuBravacs who have a first grader. We went to Five Guys for burgers and fries and then headed to the bowling alley where we scored some free bowling for the entire summer because of report cards. For you locals...it is the Woodbridge bowling alley off of US-1. We have been there twice and it has been great for the kiddos and empty too! The kids each took a turn holding Cameron and he loved the attention. Look at the difference between Luke at the beginning of the year to now...crazy how time flies.

Luke 6 years old end of kindergarten!

Ryan
Nick
Luke

cute big boys!
I love this kid!

This is not the best picture (one of the kids are shooting), but it is proof we were there!

Aunt Sarah's visit and other random spring stuff

2010-07-11T14:22:00.008-04:00

sorry about the feet!

Aunt Sarah came to visit and the kids naturally harassed her to death and loved all of her attention. She gave Luke his first cap gun and he LOVED it! We went to a small fair at a local nursery and the kids rode ponies. It is always fun when Aunt Sarah comes out even though we missed Uncle Justin!

The kids did Swim Kids again this year for a couple of months. They enjoyed it, but I still wish the progression was much faster! I do really like the program, though.

Luke and Rob went on the father-son camp out with the youth in the stake. Luke had a great time despite the fact it rained, no hailed before dinner. There was an actual river of rain that flowed right through one tent and carried it away. Always an adventure is what camping is all about, right? Well, Rob really liked the stacked dutch ovens...you know we'll be trying that sometime!

Way down yonder on the Chattahoochie....

2010-07-11T09:31:00.006-04:00

well, you know the rest of the song! :) We just returned from a 10 day Hartsock family trip to our old stomping grounds in North Georgia near Helen, Georgia...courtesy of Emom! I have many childhood memories of tubing, hiking, horseback riding, and panning for gold. It was such fun! My kids had a blast and I loved showing Rob the area. Helen, Ga is an old Bavarian town/tourist trap. It has THE BEST funnel cakes and fudge and draws people from all of the surrounding towns. It was funny to count the number of Harley Davidson's and tattoos we saw...TONS! We ate tons of country cooking which was yummy but very difficult on our waistlines :)! My grandparents used to own a home there, but they sold it years ago. We rented a cabin and it was a great location and was pet friendly www.smokerisecabin.com

Highlights of the trip:

1. finding large emeralds while panning for gems
2. eating funnel cakes 2-3 times!
3. boiled peanuts, fried fish and chicken
4. cheddar grits at breakfast and dinner
5. seeing the kids on a horse for a trail ride
6. seeing the kids hold snakes and feed the bears
7. tubing down the river with the family (Luke, Carys, Rob, Julie, Coursey, Papa Kevin)
8. peach cider slushies on a HOT HOT day.
9. hiking the Anna Ruby Falls in Unicoi State Park and the mountains
10. playing tug of war with Emom on the fourth of july
11. playing speed scrabble with mom, coursey, mom mom and dad dad
12. hearing mom mom say "koochie" (word in scrabble that my dad dad spelled)
13. seeing the non word, "sexecal," on the scrabble board again by my dad dad! (it kept us laughing for days)
14. smores around the fire pit
15. watching Last of the Mohicans for the umpteenth time
16. me and coursey's adventure to Atlanta complete with outback steaks and Eclipse!
17. watching my mom and cameron play
18. eating bacon and eggs every morning...courtesy of Emom!
19. watching the kids hang on papa kevin until there hearts content
20. spending quality time with the family and wishing we could stay all summer!

Go Timber Rattlers...Tball!

2010-06-25T00:02:00.006-04:00

Luke started T-Ball this spring. He really enjoyed it. I nearly fell over when I received the schedule-2 games a week and 1 practice! And as if I didn't have enough to do with that schedule and 3 kids, I felt I had to volunteer as the team mom! In all honesty, I was happy I did it. I was much more invested in the experience and I really got to know the parents which made it tons of fun! In case you are wondering where the rest of the family fit into this picture, don't fret they all played their respective roles on the Timber Rattlers! Rob made it to EVERY game and only missed one practice thanks to his new toy motorcycle (he swore would allow him to be around more). He helped the kids line up for batting and helped with the practices. Luke loved having his dad there for all of his plays and hits! Carys was an honorary member of the team. They even gave us an additional team picture with her in it because she was crushed when not able to be photographed with the team! She brought along her glove and played on the grass, she chit chatted with all of the moms and dads on the bleachers and educated them about her favorite colors and friends, and then she promptly retrieved her snack and drink from BOTH teams after each game! (only opposing teams 2 times really). Cam looked cute and cooed from the bleachers and provided some entertainment for the other little kiddos "watching" the game.

Luke and his team really improved throughout the season. The first game was a little scary, but truly they were doing great by June! I couldn't be more proud of Luke. He was a good sport and teammate as he cheered them each on. He also had a very good attitude about each practice and game. It was a busy schedule, but he seemed to enjoy each day! The best part of the season was when they started pitching. Luke could really smack that ball! We will definitely be playing again, but for the fall it is Flag Football!

Luke playing pitcher!

Luke is on deck!

Luke up to bat!

Luke running to first!

Luke on 1st!

Luke's biggest fan...Carys!

Cameron and Mom after the game!

Under the Sea/chocolate party!

2010-06-12T21:16:00.012-04:00

I tried and I think I succeeded in giving Carys the party she wanted. Since I want to remember these rare moments when I shine as a mom of small kids (because let's face it I fail miserably at housekeeping and cooking), and I want PROOF that I was awesome ONCE, I am going to document the details.

The kids arrived and decorated their own goodie bags with sea life stickers, foam letters to spell their names, and markers.

Then, the kids went to collect their loot! They had to "deep sea fish for a prize" of goggles/snorkel and then use them to dive and search for treasure in the "shimmering sea cave." They had to walk along "crabby alley" (crab walk over pool noodles),become like "jumping jellyfish" (hula hoops that you space farther and farther apart), and "feed the fish" (bean bag toss for prizes).

Then the fun really began...the splash zone! The water balloon fight lasted 30 seconds, but I have to give a shout out to my Rob for filling them! In all honesty, I didn't have to do anything else but buy these squirt toys from the dollar store...the kids played non-stop! I have to say that they did particularly love chasing and squirting the adults. I loved it too! That is part of the reason I do these shin-digs so I can feel like a kid again! When else could I get away with crab walking for fun or kung-fu fighting!?!

They finally took a break from the water fun so they could stuff their faces with food and cake! Then they played some more and opened presents!

Cake courtesy of Dianah @ http://www.mylittlesweetart.com/ She did a great job creating a cake that looked like the cover of the book The Rainbow Fish.

It was a nice day! I think the kids had a great time. Thanks to all who came and helped make her birthday a special celebration for her.

Carys is 4!

2010-06-09T17:48:00.003-04:00

I feel like my little girl has been 4 for a while, but it is official now! On Monday morning she woke me up with an excited, "I'm 4 today! Aren't you going to give me a birthday hug?!" Who could resist that energy? I couldn't. But, I will admit I had to pry both of my eyes open and barely had her in focus for the hug. The day continued as she told everyone she met that she was 4 today...at Johnny Rockets for lunch, at the park, at swimming lessons, and at the minor league baseball game we attended. It was too cute! Now there is even more pressure to throw a good birthday party on Saturday. Hopefully she will have a great time.

Just a few reasons Carys rocks our world...outside of the normal reasons like smart, sweet, pretty, etc.

She comes up to me when I am nursing the baby (in his rocker) and gives me a surprise kiss on the cheek (my eyes are typically shut).

She has just enough sass to do a momma proud and then can be the sweetest little baby girl the next minute.

She has just a little bit of a tom boy in her, but loves make up...like her mommy!

She is our little ray of sunshine...smiles and giggles and always true to herself.

She is a great big sister to Cameron and really thinks the world of Luke so that makes her an awesome little sister, too!

She has a funny side...she gets teasing and loves to be the center of attention and will do many comical things to get there.

All in all we just can't enough of our little "sass box" Carys!

Baby Face!

2010-05-11T21:52:00.006-04:00

Baby Face
You've got the cutest little baby face.

There ain't another that could take your place. Baby Face.

My whole heart is thumpin'. You sure have started something. Baby Face!

Who wouldn't just love this cutie patootie face?!? Yes, his hat is huge on his wee head, but he still looks edible!

Cameron is 6 months old! He is sitting up pretty regularly! He is almost crawling! The best part about my little man is that he giggles like a 4 year old...seriously, I will post a video of this soon. Luke or Carys just looks at him and sticks their tongue out and he will let out a full belly laugh/giggle. I could listen to it all day. It is seriously one of my brightest parts of each day! Love him! Love him! Love him!

Ninja Luke!

2010-05-03T23:06:00.003-04:00

It really is hard to believe that Luke is 6! He is such a strong, independent little man! He is so sensitive and loving, yet so strong-willed and bold. I love him so much.

This year he wanted a Ninja themed party. Some of you may know about my sick obsession/love of birthday parties or rather kid parties! I really enjoy throwing these celebrations and while I realize that they would be just as happy with cake and ice cream, I feel I am expressing myself and my feelings in a different way than I normally do. Luke really had a blast this year! The kids had to come ready for training. They had to learn ninja skills: chopstick practice, writing, kicks, ninja star throwing, board breaking, and of course some battle moves! This would lead them to a Black Belt and finally become a REAL NINJA! My sister was nice enough to help me demonstrate and teach the kids...it really was quite comical when you watch the video! Some day I am sure I will be extremely embarrassed when we review them with my grown kids as they poke fun of my lame kicks and punches!

Anyway, the kids arrived totally pumped and ready to learn how to be awesome ninjas! Shhh! don't tell them, that I have never taken a karate class in my life! We were lucky enough to have a kid there that new some real moves and could help keep us on track. Really, it was tons of fun and it went by very quickly! They all earned black belts and nobody hurt or killed anybody else. (it was a rule.) I know, it seems crazy to willingly allow 12 boys to pick up weapons, learn fighting moves, and encourage rowdy behavior, but you are only 6 once, right?! (In my case, I get to pretend I am 6 at least 2 more times with Carys and Cam.) There are TONS of pictures...please stay a while and check them out!

Luke's look alike!

2010-03-28T21:14:00.003-04:00

Well, I think this is Luke's other look alike (aside from Rob)...my Uncle Warren. Luke has always seemed to favor Rob's distinct look, but occasionally I would see glimpses of my grandfather, me, or my uncle. When I saw this picture, I about died. Yeah, I know he has shorter hair and it isn't exact, but they have the same smile! So, we showed it to the kids and this was the conversation...

Emom: Who is that in this picture?

Carys: I don't know. I don't know.

Emom: Who does it look like?

Carys: I don't know.

Luke: Is it me? It looks like me.

True Story...I guess I did contribute some genes after all. I still see a little Rob strong in his traits, though.

What do you think? ( I know you are reading, so I would love to hear from you!)

Do your duty with a heart full of song...

2010-03-24T22:41:00.003-04:00

And LAUNDRY, my friends, is my duty. Laundry is just a necessary evil.

I don't hate laundry, but we just don't get along. I cannot keep up with it although I almost always resolve to do a load each day after hauling my 8th load up the stairs. I don't really mind the mess (just ask my bedroom floor) and the over flowing laundry baskets because I have grown quite good at shoving as much as I possibly can into those hampers. Some would say my kids have too much clothing if I can go nearly 2 weeks without washing. To those people I say, hey, why do you think they have all of those clothes? BINGO! So, I can go a few more days without doing their laundry. Sadly, Rob and I can't go that long so we have to wash more frequently.

I recently read of a friends love affair with her laundry days...the smell, the relaxation, the order, the calm. Can you say Super Mom? I wish. I really wish I could feel that way. I can barely muster up the internal fortitude to take a load down the stairs let alone enjoy it. I tell myself it is because I have a baby at home right now or because I don't have the luxury of having a laundry shoot and have to haul clothes down two flights of stairs. The dirty truth, the real reason, is that I am just not domestic enough to find the joy in this particular part of my job...or better explained as laziness (ha ha...more like busyness). It is OK, I don't pretend to be a domestic goddess and I don't proclaim to be good at the things I am not (I fold terribly and do not sort colors in the wash...I know, GASP!). I am pretty honest and while I do NOT love laundry, I love those I serve. I love being a mom. I love that I am not perfect at homemaking or rather housekeeping because it gives me something to keep trying to improve. Oh, and I do love the smell of clean clothes.

In my efforts to get ready for our big road trip to Miami for Spring Break I HAD to do laundry. I don't think I have ever had this much at one time. Please note there are 6 piles for Carys, 5 piles for Cameron, 4 for Luke, 3 for Rob and 2 big ones for me. Please do not miss that pile of socks waiting to be sorted...tomorrow if at all (another bad habit is creating a sock basket where I match as needed...sad, I know). Alas, I am NOT finished. I have a load drying and one washing (linens). I am also not washing rugs and such, but hey...that is a LOT of laundry! So, lookie, lookie, who gets the cookie!?! Mom is the HOWWSE!

Motor Mouth in Training!

2010-03-22T15:54:00.004-04:00

Carys: I have been talkin' a lot. People need to talk a lot.

Mom: Why?

Carys: Because they NEED to.

Mom: Oh.

Carys: I'm a big girl. I know some stuff. And I know Talkin'!

Mom: Well, you get it honestly, kiddo!

(Some things you just can't help passing on to your kids! As annoying as it is to be chatted at all day, I will LOVE the talkative nature of my kids when they are older and hopefully I won't do anything to squash that trait until then.)

You can eat Chocolate!

2010-03-18T21:41:00.004-04:00

I chose CHOCOLATE for my 31st birthday this year. I ate lots of it with my friends, my kids, and all by myself! I had a great birthday this year. I was just really happy.

Carys was helping me get ready for some chocolate fun and was really sad when she didn't get have a fruity drink (my favorite virgin pina coladas made by coursey).

Mmmmm! I probably could have eaten it all, but decided to share it and I am glad I did! It was delicious and fun!
The kids were in HOG HEAVEN when we pulled out the fondue pot instead of cake this year! They couldn't get enough. I am convinced that kids canNOT eat chocolate without getting it all over their faces. Even the smallest chocolate chip will end up in the creases of their lips. IT is so funny!

Carys and mommy LOVED the pound cake dippers!

Rob was a pro dipper and perfected the double dip...dip then allow to harden and dip again for the perfect treat.
Luke's favorite dipper!

Grandma and Grandpa's visit 2010

2010-03-18T21:08:00.005-04:00

We were so excited to have Grandma and Grandpa here! Their trip got off onto a bumpy start when the airlines lost their bags, but we still had so much fun. We ended up blessing Cameron at home because they didn't have their church clothes, but it was nice and intimate and Brian could be a part of it. We went to the Fairfax City Chocolate Festival and had some tasty dips in the chocolate fountain. They played tons of board games and got to drive a round a lot as I chauffered them to Carys' gymnastics class, Luke's school for cafeteria lunch with 5 years olds, and Luke's karate class. The kids loved showing them all of their activities. I think they just fell in love with Cameron too. He barely cried and just smiled on cue the entire visit. I mean who wouldn't LOVE this face!!

Luke's new favorite game is SORRY! He roped them into playing often. I think the anti-game playing Morgans actually enjoyed the game! Well, maybe they just enjoyed watching Luke in his element!

We did some bike riding.

These are great pictures of them with Cam!

We can't forget how Carys played beauty shop on Grandpa (I am sure he won't forget). She especially loves doing men's hair.
Cameron's blessing...wearing Luke's outfit. He rolled over 2 times after the blessing! Then he began to cry... (see below)
but, look at those EYES! I still do a double take when I see the two light eyed kids I have!

The final word on my parenting challenge, I promise!

2010-03-15T20:36:00.004-04:00

http://resourcefulmommy.blogspot.com/2010/02/30-days-of-change-parenting-challenge.html

Rather than do one every day, I decided to do a few and take some time to to do them. Some of the challenges I already do, which made me happy, so I am not going to report on them. In fact, I decided I do not want to report on this beyond this final post. I don't want my blog to become a forum to discuss my parenting skills. It is supposed to be about my children and our family as a whole and a place where I record such things like memories, experiences, and feelings related to those things.

So, these are the challenges I have been working on...

Go an entire day without taking any action based on what you've seen another parent do - how many times a day to do you worry about keeping up or being judged. this was HARD! As a mom, I don't think we realize how influenced we are by others--and by others I mean other moms. how often do I scan a parking lot to see it anyone will see me yelling at my kids to get their seats? Even worse is when I turn into super mom around the PTA crowd just to make sure my kid won't be ostracized because of me. I am a worrier and by kid #3 I have shed most of my silly concerns and accepted who I am. I think in some ways I feel I have earned that and deserve to feel good about what I do as a mom. Baby #1 will in some ways always be the guinea pig, but I no longer feel the enormous guilt of not keeping up or meeting the same bar as other moms. Now, I set my own bar and I am happy with it. This challenge reminded me of that. My mom always said, "no body knows better what is best for your children than you do. Believe that you have mother's intuition and trust yourself."

Take time to talk to them about something that you really like about them - most children feel loved by their parents, but help them feel liked,
I really liked this challenge! I am awesome about telling my kids I love them a million times a day, but do they know I like them? I think this was great for my relationship with my oldest who is learning to like himself and building that confidence while making friendships at school. I also found it difficult to put these feelings into words. "LOVE" just encompasses it for me and so it was good to really get thoughtful about what was special and likable for each child.

Stop doing what you're doing when you say you will stop - no more "just a minute..." I am terrible at this! I am constantly saying, "just a minute." My oldest are put off all day long for phone calls, baby feedings, household chores and such. I think it was fun for us all to really STOP and DO! I hope I can do this more often because this time goes too quickly with them young.

Keep yourself from saying “How many times have I told you….” for the entire day! I failed this challenge miserably. This is soooo difficult for me! My kids are classic ignorers (not a word, I know). My pleas typically fall on deaf ears and while I hate repeating myself, I do it more often than not. Therefore, I end up saying this many times. I tried to stop, but I need to keep working.

To conclude this exercise, I will keep striving to be a better and more conscientious parent. I am a self-help book junkie and so this was fun for me to set little goals and see the difference they made in my sometimes monotonous life. Maybe some day my children will appreciate the efforts I took to be better for them, although I will never be perfect and I am almost positive I will hear the words, "I hate you" at some point in their teenage years. All part of the gig, right?! And you have to love them and it!

Lost and Found

2010-03-02T14:21:00.003-05:00

I just found our old camera and it had a memory card in it with some random pictures...I wonder what happened to the rest of them? Anyway, these were fun to look at and remember.

Luke was probably 2-3 here with his very best friend Morgan...note his very long hair we can't seem to grow back to that point and also note the very BLUE carpet

The T-Rex cake Rob and I made for his 3rd birthday!!! I was very proud of that party!

Luke went to his first princess party...a consequence of having mostly little girl friends! He is not dressed as a princess, but a prince/king. I think it looks like "Where the Wild Things Are!"

Just another picture as evidence of the whirlwind sleeper Luke is...he can't fall asleep without moving around and thrashing like a crazy kid! This was at 2 years old, I think because he still had his crib in his room.
Look at this cute chubby monkey!! I just want to take a bite of those legs! She looks like Cam here! Yep, they are related! I hate how they grow up and you barely remember these cute little round faces and pokey pig tails!

Just another "O-R-D-I-N-A-R-E-E" day...

2010-02-28T15:55:00.001-05:00

Yesterday Luke said, "tomorrow is going to be just another ordinary day," since it won't be Rob's birthday anymore. We thought it was cute, but then he proceeded to try to spell it. He spelled it, "O-R-D-I-N-A-R...long pause while thinking -E-E!" We said, "What other letter says the "EE" sound?" He corrected it with "Y!" We were really proud of our little speller. He was just riding in the car and did it all in his head and it wasn't a little word. And, yes, I am posting so I can remember this moment. The moment when Luke seemed just like me at his age! It does a mommy proud!

On another note: Rob had a birthday! He is such a wonderful man and I am so glad I chose him as my partner for eternity. Happy Birthday, baby! And for the record...he is eating apple pie tonight for our little celebration! When he was little he cried when they had to slice the pie since he wanted his without an corners...he has always loved apple pie even though he has to share it!

Parent Challenge #3!

2010-02-28T15:34:00.002-05:00

So, resourceful mommy is back up and has listed the rest of the parenting challenges for us to go through at our leisure. I decided to take the weekend for this challenge: Get down to their level when you speak to them today - be amazed at how your communication with your children changes when you're face to face...

Results:

While I am not "amazed" at how my communication with my children changed, I did notice a difference particularly when we were out of the house. For some odd reason that is when I feel the most exhausted by the amount of reminders and instructions I have to give my children. I think it is because they are excited (out somewhere with friends for fun) and sometimes bored (whens dragged around on errands), which makes them forget their manners, rules of self-control, and ultimately forget who their mother is...(and to think I always thought I was unforgettable ha ha!) We were at Costco for our Saturday shopping trip and usually the kids do pretty well. Lately, it has been going downhill. Luke is jumping and colliding into food, people, and carts. Carys is racing down the aisles like she is competing for an Olympic gold and I am shouting their names, "Lucas!" "Carys!" "Both of you get back here and walk with us before you run into someone...again!" All of these scenarios bring many disapproving looks and some "I pity you" looks, too. So, I caught myself and knelt down in front of them both and explained my request and reminded them of our expectations while shopping. They both made eye contact and it did work...for a while. I had to keep getting on their level throughout the day, but when I did it worked more immediately than if I just shouted at them, over their heads so to speak. I am still working on this one since it does require me to stop my normal behavior and self-correct. I do want to keep it up because I think it is important to remind children who is speaking to them and in all fairness give them a good opportunity to make the right choice since they really can't ignore me when I am staring at them face to face. I think shouting over them sort of sets them up for failure, you know? They can't help they are kids bouncing around half-listening to the giants in their lives. They can't help that their peers are way more enticing to listen to since they are on their levels and much cooler than mom. They need help focusing. Remembering to get down to talk to them on their level really helps in focusing them and keeping me calm.

Next Challenge: Give them two choices instead of deciding for them or keeping decisions open-ended

Score: 1-0 MOM

2010-02-20T21:09:00.004-05:00

GAME: Bed Aversion Tactics vs Clean Room Tactics

I sent my kids up to put on their pjs while I finished feeding Cam. It was a mere 7 minutes and I walked up to this: DISASTER!!!!

STRATEGY A: I calmly told the kids that they were not to come into my room in the morning before they pick up their room. I would have had them clean right then, but I was angry and it was late. I decided they could sleep in their mess and work tomorrow. The kids woke up and played and made an even bigger mess (if you can believe it could get any bigger).

STRATEGY B: I went in and now it was time to get ready for school. I got their clothes together for school and told them they would return to their room at 4 pm (when Luke got home) and stay there until the room is returned to its cleaned state.

The Blow by Blow: This was NOT too much to ask of these two kids. They made the mess in 7 minutes! They only have 3 places to put things: books on bookshelves, toys in his/her bins, and clothing in hamper. They CAN do this.

Well, I did it! I even passed on a late afternoon play date for Luke in order to follow through with my plan. Luke came home. We went through his backpack. I set a timer for 30 minutes and sent them upstairs. My plan was to come up every 30 minutes to assess and most likely reset the timer. I was bound and determined to have this done my way without my help. I even planned dinner to be served in their jail cell. LOL! I took a camera and Luke freaked out because he was embarrassed to have his mess documented (all part of the plan...imagine my sinister laugh). I told him cleaning it up and keeping it clean would make him proud and we could document that too!

You can imagine my surprise when only 27 minutes had elapsed and Carys yelled, "Mom, our room is almost clean!"

The Final Count: SCORE 1 for MOM!!!!

They did a great job in 30 minutes! I don't know what was better, the knowledge that I followed through and succeeded or the fact that they were proud of their work and happy they did it! YES!

Oh What Do You Do in the Winter Time...

2010-02-16T20:04:00.010-05:00

When All the World is White?!

Do you help Dad shovel the 50 inches of snow that has accumulated in front of our home?

Do you fall back in the snow and find out you are too light to sink?

But you are too heavy to climb out?

So you just smile at the camera instead?

Do you build caves for the little ones to crawl into like igloos?

Do you play and scream "snow monster" like Carys?

Do you sled down the hills with a cool look on your face?

or have cute hot-chocolate mustaches?

Do you dig for dinos in rocks and build a T-Rex with other paleontologist friends?

Have a football party and stuff yourself sick?

Do you bowl strikes with your pals?

Or give Cam some tickles so he giggles?

Or decide you family/sister is fun to play with after all?

So Do I.

We were snowed in a lot this winter, but we also had tons of fun. Fun with friends. Fun with family. I think DC needs this sort of stalling tactic every so many years in order to restore balance to families and work-aholics. I am ready for the snow to be gone now, though. Bring on the sun! (Stay tuned for sunny FL post soon!)

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-16T19:52:00.002-05:00

Carys was dolled up for Valentine's Day today because she had a school party. I was a parent helper today so I had the chance to watch her in class. It was really fun to see how independent and confident she is around her peers and teachers. She didn't even break routine once with me present. She looked very grown up to me today and it didn't sadden me, but made me excited about the future girl time we will inevitably have in our boy-dominant home. Here are a few cute Carys things she's done lately:

1) I called her "cookie" one time on a whim. She immediately said, "I'm not a cookie, I'm Carys!" I explained it was because she was so sweet and LOVED cookies. Well, I didn't think it would stick, but the next day she referred to herself as cookie all day. She said, " your cookie is being silly," "your cookie loves you," and "your cookie wants a snack." I guess she decided it was a good nickname for her...and it is!

2) Today she was playing on the piano and singing a song. She turned to me and said, "Mom! I am singing a song and you listen to it and you WILL LIKE IT!" This was not a suggestion, but a command. I had to laugh because my own mother said that to me on a number of occasions about food and trips. (i.e. You will eat it and you will like it! You will go and you will like it!) My mom was, of course, joking, but Carys was dead serious!

In the words of my grandmother, "I just love that little sass-box!"

3 months 3 weeks!

2010-02-16T19:00:00.005-05:00

I've learned a few things about this baby: 1) he does not like commotion; 2) he loves to suck his hands and is a thumb sucker any second he doesn't have his binky; 3) he LOVES his siblings and 4) he loves to sing softball cheers about his siblings! He is already practicing for the sidelines of their games. I am sure he will endure many of their sporting events in his younger years before he is old enough to get in on the action.

I just couldn't believe how long he is! Maybe I just don't remember accurately, but he seems longer than my last two kids. I also don't remember it going so fast!

He is finally doing the little push ups and getting interested in the toys! YEAH!

We have one of these with both boys...it is funny to see the difference between the two kids!
Luke was a little younger (he is about 8 weeks old) and had a lot more hair. These pictures show more differences than similarities, but they really do resemble each other quite a bit in person.

Parenting Challenge Update

2010-02-09T20:16:00.003-05:00

Day Two: Do not bicker with your spouse/partner about anything in front of the kids...no matter what.

What? Who me? Bicker with my spouse in front of the kids? NEVER! That NEVER happens in this house. I am always super careful to quietly stomp with Rob (holding hands while humming to 10) into the bedroom where I whisper-shout my feelings about whatever ticked (oops, I mean mildly irritated) me. I promise instead of reminding Rob (in a nasty tone) to "take out the trash!" for the fortieth time, I flirtatiously smile,wink and say, "honey, it would make my day if you would take out the trash today, " (followed by a huge smooch). I always say, "Wow, what a great driver you are, honey!" especially when the kids are in the car and I NEVER EVER tell him how to parent our kids particularly when he lets one run into the street without looking...dads will be dads, right? Oh, and Rob is ALWAYS right and wins every argument/tiff.

The Truth?
I needed this one big time! I cannot tell you how many times I caught myself about to correct, tease, or snap in sarcasm at Rob in front of the kids! It is no wonder they like him better most days! They know how much we love each other, but I think the message they get when we bicker is very negative. I can sometimes see it in the way Luke and Carys treat/talk to each other. I took this challenge on the day that happened to be a day when Rob and the kids were home due to snow. I think it went well. I found myself feeling more patient and loving towards him and I think it helped his response towards me as well. We had a great day together! Plus, it was a stressful and busy day with cleaning and such. My kids, I am sure, would benefit from this being an everyday occurrence. I will not lie...it is something I will have to work on. I think I am a bit of a control freak in the non-conventional way (meaning I don't need organization). I tend to like the house to run my way and therefore the parenting is mostly my way too. Rob is a very hands-on dad so I have learned to let him do it his way and my kids love that time and the different style/environment it provides occasionally. But, I am TERRIBLE in the car! I HATE when Rob is driving! I like to drive. I like my speed, my defensive driving, and my control in keeping us safe. The bottom line is that I make him nuts, I know. I know my kids pick up on it, too!

The Ugly Truth?
Only a few days later, I really did yell at Rob for letting Carys cross the street without looking. I was waiting in the entry of a Taco Bell with a friend and Luke. Rob was getting the other two out of the car. I saw Carys take off across the street and I was behind the glass banging and yelling (as if Rob could hear me) because I saw a car coming (fear). Luckily the car saw Carys, but still I was not a happy mommy at that moment and I did chastise him publicly...sorry Rob, you really are a great dad and I never really worry about the kids in your care. So, I failed at keeping it up, but vow to keep trying.

I hope I can continue to make the effort keep this challenge going until it is no longer a challenge for me. My current behavior does NOT adequately reflect my feelings about my hubby and I do NOT want my kids thinking it does. I want them to see my fun-loving relationship and how much respect is actually there between husband and wife and hopefully they will be as fortunate as we were to find each other.

(The next challenge was postponed for a few days, but will resume soon.)

Parenting Challenge Day 1: No means No!

2010-02-02T20:58:00.005-05:00

I am doing the parenting 30 day challenge from Resourcefulmommy . The first challenge is: Throughout the entire day tomorrow, say the word "no" to your children as infrequently as possible.

This challenge is one I have tried before, but failed since I attempted to make the change permanent. Well, today we ended up at the Silver Diner because I couldn't effectively convince my kids to let that idea go without the word, "NO!" JUST KIDDING...actually, I loved this challenge today. I stopped putting off Carys and just hung out a bit instead of saying, "No, not right now honey. Mommy needs to fold clothes. " Let's be honest-- when do we, as moms, ever have nothing to do? Is it ever convenient to get out the paint or worse clean up the paint? (We should embrace the opportunity to see their little handprints in red all over the wall as they are memories frozen in time! tongue in cheek) All sarcasm aside, I found myself happier and more willing to giggle and play with my kids. I naturally focused more on them and less on my to-do list and how they were preventing me from checking off my tasks. Isn't that all we should really be doing as parents? Success.

One thing I noticed is that my kids seemed a little surprised by my more diplomatic approach to answering their requests. Instead of "no" I discussed why it wouldn't be a great idea at the time. Instead of "no" I said, "yes, for a little while." I found that with the "yes, for a little while" response we both win. I read once in a parenting book that kids only really need 15 minutes of actual one-on-one time on the floor playing each day. The rest of the day can be alone/quiet play, monitored play, and creative/imaginary play type stuff. Usually, my kids ask for me for a short period of time and then they are content to continue on their own after a while. If I start with a "yes," then I feel less guilty later as I skip another sort of activity to allow them to play together. Win-Win!

With all of that said, it wasn't super easy to change my typically evil ways! I am glad I did the challenge. It has made me more aware of how much I overuse the word, "NO!" I use it so much I think Luke plain ignores me 90% of the time. Perhaps it is the age, which is what I tell myself to make me feel better for the glaring parenting flaws, I am sure. Perhaps his obvious tuning out of my voice is just his witty, independent personality shining, but it is pure darkness for me as I repeat my directives over and over. (sigh of exhaustion) Over time I stopped explaining my reasons for answering "No" simply because I got tired of arguing with my 5 year old. Sad, but true. (Some of you may know that this is a common theme in my life with #1...we are a lot alike! Makes the now relationship a little tedious, but the later relationship will be rich!) I began the more authoritative approach and as you can expect, it didn't work at all. As I tried to curb the amount of "nos" I use, I think my "No" became more effective and more heard. This has reopened my eyes to balance. Balance is the key. Balance the "no" and "yes" in your parenting and voila! a little more harmony. A little more communication. A lot more smiles.

tomorrow's challenge: Do not bicker with your spouse/partner about anything in front of the kids...no matter what.

Chaos vs. control

2010-01-27T13:00:00.000-05:00

I have been thinking about this question for a while...

What is it about life that just when everyone around you seems to be "getting it together" your life seems more chaotic with pieces everywhere? This is not a pity-me sort of question, but an honest one. It seems that many people go through life in cycles. It has always amazed me that I have had less drama in my life when those close to me have enormous amounts of drama and then it flips to where I have tons of drama and those close to me have very little. I think it is the natural order of things so we are never left alone, you know? Then we can help those around us and then be helped when we need it. I have been pondering this question often because my husband is "getting it together" and I am loving it, but the more organized he gets the more chaotic I am or seem to be. Maybe I am always that way and now I just see just how crazy my life really is in comparison. (Be truthful...I am a little crazy, right?) Isn't it odd that I see our lives as separate in many ways? I think that, too, is the natural order of things. Working spouses lead very separate lives from us working at home. When they are home we are in sync, sort of, but the majority of the awake time is separate. Luckily, I am a talker and in my life Rob and I are able to catch up and get on the same page about things.

Rob seems to get better with each child...more helpful and involved. I definitely think I improve with each child also. I am so much more organized in some ways regarding schedule and Luke's school stuff. My problem lies with my time. I am terrible at fitting in my (me) time and at being productive in down time (which is sadly also known as house cleaning time). I have always found it difficult to keep up with the expectations I feel others have for me. Years of therapy have helped me realize that most of those "expectations" are merely my inability to set good and sturdy boundaries with others. Some of those "expectations" are real though and in the end I begin to resent them which leaves me in a position where I want to ignore it all. (My unhealthy habit of avoidance.) Do you love how I psycho-analyze myself?

Going to 3 kids has been extremely smooth considering we have indeed gone to 3 kids. I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop...the baby will start freaking out regularly, Luke will flunk out of kindergarten, and Carys will start peeing her pants and revert back to diapers at 4! I know, I know, those are not real fears, but you get it, the other shoe...what is coming around the corner for us?

All of these feelings leave me feeling very out of control! Does anyone else feel out of control? Not to mention that raising kids in and of itself is a very out of control situation. There is very little you can do to control your children...actually, I just read a book that states it is impossible because they are human beings...duh! So simple, yet, so profound. I have a whole different post devoted to my new motto for parenting/disciplining...that is for another time. Back to the control thing. What do you do to regain control in your life in a healthy manner? Or, are you all perfectly organized and "together?" (Yeah, don't tell me to do something crazy like counting everything or checking locks 80 times...we aren't trying to replace one issue with another one and I already have plenty!) Really answer if you have some good words of wisdom!

3 Months!

2010-01-23T15:09:00.003-05:00

Cam is 3 months now!!! I can't believe it. He has changed so much in the last 2 weeks...he his holding his head much more consistently and longer, he is starting to giggle, he is kicking at toys on the kick-n-play, and he is beginning to use his legs to scoot and move a little when he is on his tummy. Rob weighed with him and he is roughly 13 pounds. Sorry about the stats, but I have to keep some sort of record for this little guy since I don't do the typical journal or scrapbooks yet.

Cam and I went on an adventure this weekend. We are in Miami! He took his first plane ride and he slept right through it! My grandparents have loved meeting him...stay tuned for some pics. He has such a sweet disposition. Love him!!!

Cameron is 10 weeks old!

2010-01-10T20:45:00.004-05:00

This outfit is adorable! A good friend's mom gave it to us and I just L-O-V-E it! She even included two hats so he can wear it longer. Look at my handsome boy!

Time is flying and I am even more in love with this little guy. Rob and I have decided he is our most talkative (cooing and such) child at least at this age. Carys was our smiliest kid. He really seems to be happy...I mean what other baby would allow his mommy to rock out on rock band for an hour or take an hour and a half long piano lesson without fuss! Now, don't get me wrong...he is still a baby, you know. He gets up at unpredictable hours and decides which days he wants to eat every 1.5 hours or 3 hours. But, for the most part we are adjusting well...at least until we aren't, right?

"This is way better than a list, Dad"

2010-01-03T20:15:00.006-05:00

Today at church Rob was writing lists of what he wanted to accomplish in 2010. There were specific categories...spirituality, organization, etc. Luke took the program and took Rob's pen and wrote the sentence: Have the spirit of the Holy Ghost with you and you will give love to Jesus Christ. Then he turned to Rob and said, "This is way better than a list, Dad."

Carys and Luke were bickering like normal today. Carys is either copying everything Luke says verbatim or she is arguing with everything he says. I guess, while watching football with Dad, Luke said to her, "This is Miami playing." She responded with, "well, I have my own Ami!" What makes this hilarious is that Luke didn't get that Miami was a full word forever and now Carys does the same thing! My ami! No, your ami!

"Mallow out dude!"

2009-12-28T16:16:00.003-05:00

I am a firm believer that children not only bless our lives in millions of little ways, but that they are part of our family for a purpose...more like they play a role for us and us for them. Each of my kids have taught us (me and Rob) something profound and necessary for a happy life. Some of these roles did not become obvious until they were a little older than infants, but Cameron has already taken hold of some teaching moments and shown us a thing or two.

Luke came to our lives like a lion...roaring and gnashing his teeth at every threat to his freedom. (That was not what he taught us.) His personality has been both extremes...sensitive and strong willed. He taught us how to lighten up in life. The more we lightened up the easier he was to deal with and it was so much more fun...surprise surprise. His zest for life keeps us on our toes and really livens up our family spirit as he sees so many things as adventure. I especially needed that lesson since I grew up with girls around me. I love that I have so much to look forward to with him in our family to crack the whip of fun!

"Roar!"

Carys was the sweetest baby and smiled from what seemed like the first moment we saw her. She is a typical girl, now at 3, with mood swings and a flair for drama. She has a unique ability to find joy and excitement at the smallest things in life. She shows us the "rosy" sides of things and points out, with her squeals of joy and giggles, how great she thinks everything is. That is a great lesson for us, who can be pretty pessimistic at times and sometimes just get sick of the monotony of reality. I know she will bring this light to our family forever and her brothers will be better for it, too.

top: shows us her sticky hands with all the enthusiasm she had!
bottom: easter picture where she just sat in the flowers and loved them!

Now Cameron, at 8 weeks, has already taught us a great lesson as well. My sister picked out an outfit that has a marshmallow soaking in hot chocolate and it says, "Mallow out dude!" It struck me as the perfect phrase to fit our little guy. He has managed to slow us down and remind us of the little special and important moments in life. We had swine flu and because he was here I got to be stuck in a room with him for 6 days...slowing down and bonding. He is extremely mellow and content. Rather than that trait allowing me to ignore him and tend to my other kids, it gives me the chance to love on him, let the kids love on him, and pay more attention to him. He makes our family work right now...gives us an excuse to take it easier, spend more quiet time together, and just relish the smallest of smiles and the largest of hugs. It is the small things in life that matter the most and you just have to stop and smell the roses! I think he will always be that voice of reason in our home or at least I hope he is. :)

Thanks to my Heavenly Father for bringing us such special children to edify us and help us grow. I hope I can fulfil my role for them and at the least relay how much I love them.

2009-12-24T20:47:00.002-05:00

We recently got our family pictures taken by a great photographer couple (Cari and Robert Freeman)! They were great to work with and we were very happy with the results. We also did Cameron's newborn photos with them. Check out her work (our pics) at the links below.

http://pinkroom.smugmug.com/People/The-Morgans-2009/10558565_mybrp#733371220_WkDTC

http://pinkroom.smugmug.com/People/Cameron-M/10526977_KrXLF#731094266_LdRBs

Her blog is http://blog.pinkroomphotography.com/

Cam is almost 8 weeks!

2009-12-24T20:37:00.005-05:00

My boys are too cute! Luke is such a good big brother to Cam! He doesn't even have to be asked to put Cam's pacifier in when he is crying. He even does this cute tongue click in order to help calm Cam down too. I couldn't ask for a sweeter baby; he has been so cooperative during this Christmas season, so I can shop and bake and decorate and basically do all that I wanted to do this holiday.

Merry Christmas to all of you!

This is what happens after a day with DAD!

2009-12-24T20:28:00.004-05:00

Rob was a great daddy and took the two older kiddos for the day so I could run some errands before Christmas. Of course, Carys' hair was pretty when she left the house...this is what came home! Evidently they went to Dick's Sporting Goods and the kids were playing in the tents and she rolled around until it snarled on. Rob didn't even notice until I noticed at home! Just goes to show you that moms see things that dads don't see. If you look closely you will see the bow is still in their somewhere! :) You can imagine the fun we had combing it out!

Baking part 2!

2009-12-24T20:12:00.004-05:00

Well, we did it! We finished our baking!We are at least 5 pounds heavier, but it was fun. We tried all new recipes and most of them I thought turned out yummy! I have a couple I would make again...the tassies and the caramel thumbprints. I would make the bark also. Then, as if I didn't' have enough junk to eat (luckily we gave a lot away) we HAD to make some sugar cookies for Santa (requested by kiddos). Here are some pics! Coursey was really a super baker this year! She tackled the tassies when I thought maybe I chose a recipe that would prove too time consuming. I am really glad she was willing to try them because they were chocolaty delicious-ness.

Cranberry White Chocolate Bark...yummy!

Red Velvet Whoopie Pies with peppermint

Chocolate Raspberry Tassies...didn't really taste like raspberry inside, but oh well.

This was our first time making royal icing...much better than butter cream frosting!

Yes, Carys is just like her Aunt Coursey and can put her entire hand in her mouth! She is attempting to "clean her hands."

This is hilarious!

2009-12-23T13:51:00.004-05:00

I love reading and getting family newsletters each year from those we love and adore...so KEEP sending them each year! This is NOT a reaction to ones we've received, but totally represents what I am afraid of accidentally doing...bragging or offending others with MY letter! We didn't do one this year due to time constraints with a newborn, but we will keep with the tradition in years to come. It is a nice treat around the holidays, especially when we live away from our family, to read about them and feel connected to their lives. I think I was one of the last people to visit this blog, but I read it occasionally and this recent post is a "what not to do" letter for the holidays! I laughed so hopefully you will too!

http://seriouslysoblessed.blogspot.com/2009/12/our-family-newsletter-09.html

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

2009-12-19T22:01:00.007-05:00

We have the tree...CHECK!
We have the baking and treats...CHECK!
We have the snow...CHECK!
We have pictures with Santa...CHECK!

This year was much better than last years experience at HD. Rob requested I take the "tree drama" down a notch. We picked out the tree much quicker this year. BUT, it isn't perfect. In fact it has some holes and sags towards the bottom and we LOVE it. The kids, particularly Luke, had very specific ideas about where the ornaments should go. I tend to put the "uglier" ornaments in the back of the tree, but Luke would not have it. He felt bad for the "uglies" and insisted that some made their debut in the front and sides of the tree. I had to fight the urge to dictate and change where they went, but decided that these are the memories. I don't remember my mom changing anything we did. We felt like it was our tree, too, and that is why trimming the tree is such a fond family activity for me. I want it to be the same for my kids. Therefore, it isn't perfect, but it is perfectly OUR tree!

Chocolate Caramel thumbprint cookies...yum.

The Ultimate Chocolate-dipped cookies...coursey did the baking and I did the toppings. They are sinful and rich and all that a chocolate treat should be! I tell you if we don't put on 10 pounds this season it will be a Christmas miracle. :) These are only a couple of the treats we are making...

Luke took this pic through the sliding door...it has doubled by now!

These two pictures do not do their red cheeks justice...I swear it is amazing they didn't get frost bite!

Of course, Captain had to get in on the action. It is funny to see how the snow balls up on his fur!

"I want a star wars lego set!"

"I want ponies!"

All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth...

2009-12-19T21:55:00.002-05:00

then I could wish you merry Chrithmath!

Luke lost 2 teeth in a span of 1 week! I guess it is appropriate since all four of his bottom teeth came in about 2 weeks time as a baby. He looks so grown up...sort of sad! He lost the first one at church in primary so he was able to keep track of it. Thanks Sister Forteza for helping him with that situation. The second one he lost on Friday at school. We think he may have swallowed it since he says he noticed it was gone during lunch. He didn't seem to care since, "the tooth fairy can still bring me a dollar!" (and she did) It goes too fast!

It just wouldn't be Christmas without...

2009-12-18T13:12:00.006-05:00

another hilarious kid Christmas program at preschool!

Carys had her first preschool program this year and I was so excited to see her sing her songs. She was, too, for the first song. Then she noticed a couple of other kids crying and getting love from the teacher...uh-oh... Those of you who know Carys' flair for the dramatic will not be surprised that her wheels began turning and the water-works began. She cried for the rest of the program. She did more than cry and pout. When the tears stopped she didn't want anyone to think HER program was over and so she moaned/whined rhythmically while the other kids sung. Oh, I almost forgot the best part! Remember Luke's little nose-picking incident at his preschool program? Well, Carys used her dress as her tissue by lifting her red satin skirt up to her runny nose (from crying) and wiping it clean! (Sadly, there is no footage or pictures of that one.) All the parents were laughing and looking at me and I had to laugh too. Her crying stopped when the children were walking out of the show and then she told me she was sad because she "wanted a hug." It would've been quicker to run to my open arms and back than to carry on throughout the entire program. You have to love how their little minds work...I love this girl!

Poor attention starved, Carys. She looked so sad I did want to save her, but her teacher came to her rescue so I could video tape it. (warning: a very bad recording!)

This is how the first song went.

This was after her crying show.

Yes, you CAM CAM CAM!!!

2009-12-16T15:25:00.003-05:00

Cam is starting to smile! I am loving that he responds best to me! I love his little coos and attempts to interact and I just LOVE him! We made it to church on Sunday and he was awake for two hours and didn't make me leave my meeting to nurse! I know that is a luxury I won't be enjoying very long. I keep joking that Cameron is a ticking time bomb since I know that every baby has their phase. You know the phase when you can't put them down, or they want to eat all the time, they won't sleep long enough for you to pee, and they only are quiet in the car when you are singing "old McDonald at the top of your lungs! He is getting more hair and growing all the time. We just started putting him in 3-6 months! Here are a couple of pics...

He is starting to smile...you can't see it but I think he has a dimple!

Cam can't stop moving his little hands. He loves them and often has a Super hero fist in the air...Super Cam!!!

Happy Thanksgiving from my little turkeys!

2009-11-28T18:51:00.005-05:00

Rob fried a turkey and nobody blew up!
Coursey made a yummy dinner and pies!
Luke and Carys ate the entire feast and still had room for dessert!
Cam is 1 month old. He is over 9 lbs and still growing longer! He is still a very content baby.
Julie feels great and is grateful for family and friends this year.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!

My favorite holiday without me!!! HALLOWEEN!

2009-11-07T17:12:00.007-05:00

Clone Trooper Luke, Rob, ladybug Carys
Luke as Clone Trooper

what cute kids!!!
I just melt when I look at her sometimes...such a pretty little thing.

Carys' preschool costume parade

We were in the hospital, but the kids didn't skip a beat. Aunt Coursey and Emom got the kids ready for trick or treating. Rob came home to take them around the neighborhood. They ended up with tons of candy and loved every minute. Carys is so funny. She went down one end of the street and then decided she was finished and had enough. She went home while Luke went on with Dad. Aunt Coursey made Carys into a beautifully made up lady bug. I bought the costume 2 years ago and ended up buying a pink poodle last year instead. Luckily I bought it big enough for her to wear it this year. Luke was a star wars guy...surprise, surprise. I was sad to miss out of trick or treating, but I am glad it went well and the kids still had a great time before the weekend rain really hit.

It's a Boy!!

2009-11-07T17:05:00.005-05:00

nearly 1 week
nearly 1 week old
daddy and cam at birth
emom, luke, carys, cam
one week old!

mommy and cam at birth
Cameron Brian-- Oct. 30th 2009

I suppose that I should document this little freight train's birth for my blog book (if I can ever manage to make it). Do not feel the need to read, yet another labor and delivery story as it really is for me to record Cameron's birthday. I really won't be offended ;)

At 3:30 am I woke up with my normal occasional contraction and then had another big one 20 minutes later. I was used to having at least 2 a night so i didn't think anything of it. At around 4:20 I started again with contractions but they were 10 minutes apart. I woke up Rob and said that I thought it may be time. I timed two more at 10 min. apart and then got in the shower, and tried to finish packing. Of course, Rob wasn't packed or showered either...he was packed for his hunting day the next day though...ha ha! At around 5:10 they jumped to 3 minutes apart. Uh Oh! Then we called the doc and headed out. We are driving to the hospital and they are 2-3 minutes apart. As we were pulling off the exit to the hospital I got an intense urge to push...Are you kidding me?!!! I tell Rob, who barely found the hospital, and he decided driving above the speed limit would be a good idea now. Hallelujah! But wait, don't speed over that speed bump!!!! We make it in one piece and as I am checking in, Rob realized he forgot the camera. So, the kind nurse escorted me upstairs to Triage. Once in Triage, the urge to push was very intense. It seemed as if the nurses were moving in S L O W MOTION! Of course, they weren't, but they were annoying me as they kept questioning my plan for a C-Section. (Ummm, can't you see that the plan is set and I am a little busy in labor and pain now? I don't have the energy to defend myself to you people!) Anyway, the doctor came in and I was dilated to nearly an 8 and I was still dying with my need to push. That is something I have never experienced and I really could not control all that well. The IV was in and they began to discuss the fact that I may not have time for a C-section. I am beginning to panic and I was moaning stuff along the lines of, "it isn't supposed to go this way. This isn't my plan. I can't have another 4th degree tear. Please give me something." The doctor kept saying they were moving as fast as they could. Well, this little guy had another idea. I didn't even get an entire bag of fluids in me before I was dilated to a 10 and complete. The doctor calmly explained that in order to have a c-section I would need the epidural or spinal and I would have to sit up for that and I would deliver the baby before that was finished. He was coming...without drugs!!!! (Luckily we didn't hit any rush hour traffic on the way or he would have been coming in the car!) I just looked at her and said, "can't you give me anything?" She said, she could give me some local anesthetic, but it most likely won't do much except for stitching. She said the worst part are the contractions and I was finished with transition...oh, thanks, so tearing in half wouldn't hurt at all, right? Well, it was inevitable anyway and we headed to labor and delivery.

And now, my little miracle moment. I have a friend who said some of her most spiritual moments were with her babies or at birth. I now have to agree. As they were wheeling me to L&D, I was having another contraction that felt I was going to push him out on the bed and I said a little prayer. During the prayer, the contraction completely stopped cold. Not a single tightening. No pain. Just calm. We pulled next to the new bed and I literally popped up and got myself into the delivery bed with confidence and energy. It was amazing. I couldn't believe it. I got my first moment without pain in an hour and a half. The head was presenting (Rob could see him) before they broke my water and then they gave me a few shots of local. The next contraction I pushed four times (counts of 8). His head was out on the second and body on the fourth. It was over. It was quick. I barely tore. I felt very little pain. I checked into the hospital at 5:40 and Cameron was born at 6:40 am. And it was my first baby that didn't have to have forceps or vacuum help and he came out so quickly that his head was absolutely perfect! He was smaller than the ultra sound previously predicted...2 pounds lighter. My healing has been better than with the other two pregnancies as well. I had a lot of turmoil about having a c-section and I think the Lord really took the decision out of my hands and this was the best outcome we could have imagined.

Now a moment about our baby boy...he is Cameron Brian. He weighed 6 lbs 8 oz, 20 inches long. He is perfect and gorgeous. He looks just like my other two minus the gobs of dark hair. He has been a great baby so far...eating and sleeping like a champ. We just love him so much. I can't believe how big your heart grows with each child. I could just stare at him for hours.

I think I should document, too, that we (carys, luke, rob, julie) got the H1N1 flu in our home 1 week after delivery. I have been quarantined with Cameron for days and will be until we are germ free. We are still in the thick of it and are praying Cameron stays clear of it. The news of the flu was about all I could take in the midst of my hormonal plummet during the first week postpartum. I cried for nearly two days at the thought... all is well now and I am regulating my emotions much better. We are all on Tamiflu and coming out of it. Luckily, my mom has been here to help contain the kids and entertain them. She and my sister has been amazing. The ward has been great as well with meals and phone calls. We are very fortunate.

The Great Wall of Chocolate...

2009-10-28T20:00:00.004-04:00

is ONE of the reasons I got stuck getting out of the car last night. Not the specific cake, but it serves as a symbol of all the yummies I have happily devoured during this pregnancy...JK! I just have to record this for my kids/family to laugh at when I am old.

A friend parked the car and asked, "Do you have enough room to get out on that side?" She clarified with something along the lines of, "I am not saying you need the room, just that the car is a little close and the spot is tight." (which in my defense, it was and the sports car next to us was on the line.) I, of course, was not offended and laughed at the thought of getting stuck. I mean, seriously, who gets stuck in a car door?! Oh yeah...that would be me, nine months pregnant! The entire car unloaded and I tried not to hit the other car's side mirror with the door. I slid off the seat and there I was stuck with my belly touching the door and butt touching the car with no movement to be made. The real embarrassment hit when I realized I had to yell over the car, "I can't get out! I am actually stuck...for real!" So, needless to say we moved the car up to a larger spot in order to accommodate our wide load... ME!!! (I really am not that huge, I promise!) I was laughing so hard, though. At least I was laughing at myself and not crying, right? Too funny! Definitely started the night off with a bang and made a great memory!

I thought these were really cute!

2009-10-27T13:09:00.000-04:00

http://tutusandturtles.blogspot.com/2009/10/monsters-on-stick.html

Halloween is one of my favorite holidays!

2009-10-25T20:07:00.004-04:00

This season I haven't been as motivated with the pregnancy, but I do love Halloween. I decided to get my butt in gear and try to do a few crafts with the kids while I can. We made candy necklaces...yummy and gross at the same time. We made a jalopy foam car that was much more difficult than it seemed. I had to go back and hot glue the pieces since the car kept falling apart. The end product is pretty cute though. We decided to make our own trick or treat bags this year. We found two bags made of that same material the reusable grocery sacks are made of. Then we used craft paint, stickers, and such to decorate them. The kids had a lot of fun with this and it was not messy or difficult. One year Luke and I made one of those gingerbread haunted houses with orange and black frosting...big mistake, big mess, big disaster. So, I was happy to find some nice things to do. Last we carved a pumpkin today. Actually, Rob carved and we watched, but Luke chose the picture and Carys watched curiously. Carys refused to touch the seeds, but Luke helped clean it out in true boy form! Now, I am ready to hit the week of costume parades, trunk or treats, and trick or treating!

7 days and counting!

2009-10-25T19:54:00.003-04:00

I am scheduled for baby on Nov. 1st so even though my due date isn't for 2 weeks I am saying I have 1 week left. Here is a pic for anyone who cares (mostly family who don't see me waddling around on a regular basis). Carys seems to be most excited about the baby coming. She is always talking about how she is going to be the best big sister ever. The other day she said, "I want to see him! You need to go to the doctor so he can take the baby out. Then I can see him!" It was really cute. Luke keeps helping us think of names because we STILL cannot find the right fit...I know, I know, LAME! Some new ones are Cameron, Gabe, Chase, and Jason although really, I don't think anything is going to fit until I see him. I never imagined this happening, but for whatever reason it is.

Speaking of meeting the little guy...I CAN'T WAIT! I know I have a C-section and that is nerve-wracking if I think too much, but the only thing I think about is holding my little one and what he is going to look like! Will he have brown eyes like Luke and me or light eyes like Carys and Rob? Will he really be much bigger at birth? Will he be bald unlike my other two? A redhead, which is a possibility? What? The anticipation is enough to keep me up at night, but alas, it is only 7 more days! The funniest part of this pregnancy is that I am still not in labor or really progressing (as of 2 weeks ago, but we'll see on Tuesday). My friend, who was due the day after me, just had her little guy...what is up with that? She did mention a friend who did accupressure...maybe I need an appointment! JK! I keep telling myself that the fact that this baby had no interest in or made zero threats to come early means he needs to be right where he is--growing like a weed and tearing up my insides! :) Stay tuned for baby announcements in a week!

Dog Tired!

2009-10-07T10:03:00.003-04:00

All of the sudden I feel like I've been hit by a truck! Despite taking a 2 hour nap yesterday, I still went to bed before 10 and could still be sleeping now. I went in for an Ultrasound yesterday and found out that this little guy is growing like a weed! This is great news considering last week they told me my tummy was measuring 2 weeks behind. His actual measurements, or estimated measurements, are at 37 weeks 1 day for head and 36 weeks 6 days for abdomen leaving him at 6 # 7oz! (2 oz smaller than Carys was at birth!) I am technically at 35 weeks and 3 days...although my original date I cam up with for conception would have put me closer to what the baby is measuring being due about a week earlier...oh well, they always take the earlier dating and I am sure will not be moving up my due date. Let's just say that visit really did make me feel 100% about going the C-Section route this time. Other than that news, the baby is wonderful. I feel sore everywhere and expect that to stay that way until I deliver. Hey, it comes with the territory, right?

The good news is that I have finally taken my head out of the sand about this little one arriving. I am washing up the baby clothes as we speak...or type/read. I will be making a trip for a few baby essentials this week and will officially calm that little voice that keeps yelling at me to get on it and get ready! My mom booked her tickets to come out, too! yeah! :) There's our update.

Duh, MOM!!!!

2009-10-01T16:49:00.003-04:00

Today Luke got off the bus and had what appeared to be a small square piece of a band-aid stuck to his forehead. I asked him what happened to his head and he said nothing. I then asked more clearly, "Why is there a band-aid on your head, Luke?" Then, with the tone of pure annoyance and superiority he replied, "It's not a band-aid! It's a Indian dot!" Oh, my bad! Duh, Mom, can't you tel the difference between an Indian dot and a band aid? Evidently, his new friend Sammie from school gave it to him. I am glad he is learning about new cultures although, I am sure they didn't discuss what the dot actually means.

A LITTLE NESTING NEVER HURT ANYONE!

2009-09-29T20:53:00.004-04:00

These are just a couple of things we've been working on around our house. Hey it isn't like I will have extra time after this baby arrives in a month!!!

In my efforts to get ready for school/fall, I decided to try to make a magnetic schedule board. I found it at http://controllingmychaos.blogspot.com/search/label/organizing This board will help me to keep up with two kids' schedules plus mine and Rob's. Plus, it matches my green striped front room!

I can't seem to find the other pics of Luke and Carys' room and now it is too messy to actually photograph. The bedding was found at Target and they are surfer themes...fish and surf boards on Luke's and flip-flops and hibiscus on Carys'. I love them! They have common colors that I used in the room, too! So far, the kids are loving their new roommate situation and hopefully it will last. Oh, and in case you are wondering...no, I did not paint one thing this pregnancy!

We decided to upgrade our linoleum to stick tiles that look nicer. I got a really great deal on a vanity with storage for our powder room and it inspired the new look! I am loving it and it only cost us $110 total!

Next on my list is to organize all of the toys into the newly built IKEA shelves in our basement so I don't have to look at the piles everyday.

Sadly, the list of things to do around a home never seems to end, but I am happy with a few finished projects here and there.

Any thoughts?

2009-09-24T16:59:00.004-04:00

Since I KNOW there are some readers out there, I KNOW you care,right? So help us! We are having a terrible time choosing a name for this little guy. I will list our final contenders, but are open to any awesome suggestions you have for us (and are willing to share and possibly lose to our family). Please do not be offended if we don't choose one you suggested...Rob may surprise me and have an opinion about this at some point. ;) JK...I love you, Rob! I don't' know why this one has been so difficult, but nothing is totally jiving for us.

I am nearing the end and I finally feel like being there...the end that is. My body is giving me all sorts of signals it is prepping and my excitement is building...5.5ish more weeks! Woo hoo! Oh, and take our quiz about when he'll arrive on our sidebar!

Our list: oh and the middle name is going to be Brian (after Rob's dad)

*Bennett
*Jude
*Rhett
*Jax
Tyce
Trey
Quinn

2009-09-20T10:10:00.006-04:00

Well, this is the beginning of the end...sports with kids on Saturdays! We started soccer this fall. Originally it was just going to be Luke, but we found out they had a team for Carys too! She is way more in to soccer at 3 than Luke was--probably because she has an older brother. Although the Saturdays are busy, the kids are loving it. They started last weekend and I took a ton of pictures. I will NOT be taking pictures every week, but I promise to take a few more towards the end to document any improvement. Soccer is not that easy to photograph either....luckily, Coursey was with us last week and was the photographer for Luke's game!

Carys' team ended up being more like drills with parents. (Don't even get me started on how much money it costs to basically do what we could do on our own, but she loves it.) She only plays on Saturdays.

Luke has one practice each Monday evening and a game on Saturdays. It is nice because they divide the large team into 3-4 fields to play 3v3 with frequent rotations and water breaks. Luke gets a lot of ball time and was able to score quite a bit over the past couple of games...which I think is good for them at this age. In some ways it isn't realistic to score a lot so I was glad that the teams are pretty well matched up. I think that he would be very disenchanted if he never saw ball time. Next year he will have the full field experience and that will be a great transition age for it. Right now they are both having fun and that is what counts, right? Rob has been very involved with both teams...coaching one of the smaller fields or running drills with Carys. It is good for the kids to have that time with him!

I just loved how she decided to sit on her ball when her coach was talking.

She runs the entire time and loves it!

I love this shot...see the ball in the air?!

Luke on an out rotation talking with dad about the game so far...handsome boys.

Get it Luke!

The girl is saying, "Yes!" because Luke made a GOAL!

Kick it, Luke!

Our gorgeous cheerleaders!

Pregnancy #3 --33 weeks

2009-09-18T21:16:00.004-04:00

Where has the time gone?! In some ways this pregnancy seems to be flying by...maybe it is because I have two kids I am chasing and handling and I haven't been on bed rest! Yeah, that is the best part of this pregnancy...NO BEDREST! I have no idea what made this different, but I speculate that it is because I am carrying much higher than with the other two. I am actually feeling those "discomforts" of pregnancy you hear about-you know, the constant foot in the rib until you feel bruised from the inside out, the heartburn, the inability to do much of anything let alone shave, bend over, or get up off of the floor. This is NOT a complaint, but merely an acknowledgement of how different this time around has been.

I think we have been in a bit of denial- Rob and I. Well, to be honest, Rob is in more of denial than I am. We can't even decide on a name! (I know the horror!) We just keep on with life as if it isn't happening. It hit me yesterday that this baby will be here in 6 weeks or less! (scheduling for Nov. 1st) There is so much to do and so little time! Plus, all Rob can think about is hunting and what Saturdays will work to do his fun new hobby without soccer, baby, etc. That discussion is for an entirely different post...MEN! Anyway, I think that in some ways we see the third as "been there, done that." But, we haven't been there- there being a family with three kids- and we haven't done that -that being managed three little ones with three different sets of needs while recovering from a C-section. With all of the changes that have come this fall already, the baby really should take the cake but we just keep acting like it is merely a side note. Again, I say, I think we are in a bit of denial...denial about how our world will be shifting back to baby mode and denial about all that is required to get ready for and handle this change. I am not upset at all, just realizing that I'd better get on the ball!

With all of that being said...We can't wait to meet our little man and have him meet his siblings. All of the changes, as scary as they can be, are so welcomed worth it. I secretly hope I come a little early just so I can hold him sooner. :) Here are a couple of not so great pictures that I took of myself last week or so. (32 weeks)

"Oh, Him invisible!"

2009-09-16T12:22:00.003-04:00

A couple of weeks ago Carys and I were walking into church and she was running full speed to the doors. I told her about how the church is Heavenly Father's house and we have to be reverent which means no running, screaming, or acting crazy. She said, "well, I don't see Him!" I replied, "Well, He dwells here in spirit, but we come here to feel close to Him." She paused and then said, "OH!!!! Him invisible!" I thought it was so cute. Then we walked down the hall into the chapel and found Rob and Luke in a pew. After Carys sat down she turned to me with a scolding face and said, "This not a house! It a church!" She did her best to yell in her quieter church voice. IT was pretty funny to think she took the entire walk into the chapel to process our original conversation about it being His house and then she decided I must be wrong! Preschoolers!

I'm A Big Girl Now!

2009-09-15T11:38:00.006-04:00

Carys is ready for her first day of preschool! Her class is the Green Turtle class! We wanted to make this a big day for her since she was so caught up in Luke going to Kindergarten. She has been wanting to go to Kindergarten too and didn't understand why he could go and she couldn't. Now, was her turn! The classroom was awesome and large with tons of activities. There are 15 kids, 2 adults and her teacher is Mrs. Beth ( I loved her!). They seem to have a great structure and program at this preschool. This is a different preschool than Luke attended for 3 years so the entire experience is new for us. I think the change is a good one. The school is closer and I think it is nice for her to have her own place. I just think she looks so grown up these days...imagine how big she is going to seem when I have this baby boy! We got our orientation to the classroom today together for 1 1/2 hrs. She will go the entire time on Thursday. She is already excited to go again!

Carys is sporting her new Hello Kitty pink book bag!

Carys hanging up her book bag at her cubby.she did a great job at recognizing her name!

Carys had to recognize her name at the attendance center and get her name tag...she did a great job!

Mommy and Carys did a classroom scavenger hunt in order to find all the fun centers. She had to collect shapes to glue to her poster. She had a great time!

Carys made her place mat for snack time...plate, cup and napkin template.

Carys playing doll house...the first thing she gravitated to. It was funny to see ALL the little boys flock to the trucks and cars. The girls ALL congregated int he housekeeping and doll/dress up area. I wonder if that will be every day or if they will cross enemy territory?! :)

At circle time, Carys naturally sat right in the middle of 4 boys! I think it was coincidence, but it was funny since most of her friends outside of school are boys too! At least she'll be right at home!

Carys was the flag holder helper today during the pledge.

They lined up for the first time to walk to the playground and she was the only one facing backwards...it was hilarious! She loved the playground!

H1N1 anyone?

2009-09-11T14:39:00.003-04:00

Well, this week I witnessed what to me, was one of my yuckiest moments as a mom yet! There I was waiting in line to check out at The Children's Place when I turned around to see Carys licking the metal pole like an ice cream cone. I squealed in shock and said, "Carys, that is yucky. Don't do that." She said, "I just kidding!" Then she did it AGAIN!!!!! Then, I had to reprimand at eye level and really explain why I didn't want her to lick the dirty pole. Moms in line were horrified, I am sure. I made eye contact with one as I was expressing how that just makes me want to throw up. I could just tell she wanted to puke too! A friend said, "it isn't like you can anti-bacterial her tongue like you can hands!" So true! So gross! It is even worse because of the panic over Swine Flu going around and growing worse this fall/winter. I totally forgot about the experience until yesterday when Carys walked up to me on the playground and showed me the piece of candy in her mouth that she found in the wood chips! I took it out of her mouth, of course, and proceeded to tell her again why we don't dot hings like that! AHH! Isn't 3 a little bit old for picking up random things and putting them in their mouths?! GROSS! Just to be safe, we all got our flu shots today!

"May the force be with you..."

2009-09-08T20:07:00.004-04:00

Those were the words I replayed all day when the thought of Luke at school popped into my head. It is probably because of the Star Wars themed everything these days, but really it is quite appropriate for sending our children off to the next phase or school.

We survived the first day! He seemed to have a great day. The details of his day didn't come until he was adequately fed a huge snack...just another way he is like his father! I actually had to order him to give me a good-bye hug before getting on the bus. It was a rainy day, but that did not deter him in anyway. He loved the opportunity to wear a rain coat. He has a friend from church, who also lives in our neighborhood, in his same class. They rode the bus together both ways and are already bonding by plotting play dates after school. Carys had a great day without having to compete for mom's attention. She was really cute to get dressed "for school" this morning. She wanted to be in all of the pictures and was crushed when we asked her to step out of one so we could capture just Luke on his big day. I think today is making her excited for her day of starting preschool next week.

Luke sporting his new Yoda shirt!

Luke's ready for rain and he is showing off his book bag!

Carys and Luke before school!

Carys crushed because we wanted some shots of Luke alone...so sad!

Carys, Rob, and Luke

Just waiting for the bus!

Luke with his pal, Edric.

Carys at the bus stop.

Luke getting on the bus for the first time!

Luke's first homework assignment!

2009-09-07T20:45:00.006-04:00

Please forgive the sideways shots...they aren't that way in my file and for whatever reason blogger is flipping them...I don't know why.

I know, I am a lame mom that is seriously taking pictures of her son's first homework assignment, but it turned out so good! I was so proud of him. He did the whole thing in pencil and then made it hard to see by using a black crayon, but the pictures are my favorite. He drew Darth Vader and light sabers for "I like to play Star Wars." He drew a TV with a kid bowling with pins (stripes on the pins can't be seen due anymore) for his example of how he loves bowling on the Wii. He also drew a checker board! I just love this kid because he really does love to play checkers and he is pretty darn good, too! I am already so proud. (Sorry, braggy mommy moment...sorry!) It hit me today that I feel really ready for this because he feels ready for it. I know he is excited and confident and while I know he will have insecurities and moments of sadness at school, I think he is going to enjoy it.

2009-09-06T12:06:00.005-04:00

We celebrated our 8th anniversary by taking a day trip to Monticello. We also headed to an orchard, movie, and The Melting Pot for dinner. It was a kid-free day and we had a lot of fun to have adult conversation all day!!!

Here we are in the flower garden behind the house.

I made Rob take this picture because I thought these flowers were beautiful!

Rob was so impressed with this photo he took, I just had to include it! It is really great though!

Rob is standing in front of what we would call the garage, but really it is the carriage house.

These burners were called stew ovens for the french cuisine Thomas Jefferson had his chefs learn and cook. He actually sent his main chef to culinary school in France.

The coolest part of this house is the fact that Thomas Jefferson called it his, "Essay in Architecture." This was because he designed it entirely after the architecture styles he loved.

This was only part of the garden he had. He farmed some amazing vegetables and crops for his time.

We stopped at the orchard and enjoyed some homemade donuts and a peach cider slushy. Both were delicious. This is the view!

Love you, babe! What a great day and a great way to celebrate 8 years of marriage. It is hard to believe so much time has passed and so much has transpired in our life together...here's to the next 8!