Miranda Weekly

Boston...Here we come!

2010-08-30T20:23:00.000-07:00

We are here! I can't believe it. It seems like I have been saying I am going to Boston for so long. I guess I didn't really think it would happen. But we made it. And it is AMAZING! Everything I thought it would be. I am taken aback at the different life style it is here. The idea of having a yard is foreign to them. And the buildings seem like one building but have different facades. Everyone walks! It's crazy coming from someone like me who just hops in the car and drives to where I need to be. But parking is horrendous and expensive and things are relatively close. But I have not yet seen a typically house. You know with the pitch roof, front door, driveway. Yeah...they aren't like that around here. And you should see their firehouse...well you will in a minute. Everything has SO much history it is so incredible.

We flew in on Sunday and decided to take a walk and see what was around us. Also, we were starving since I hadn't had anything to eat since 7:30am and it was 6:30pm. I didn't really care where we ate. But the first thing we see is the firehouse. Look at this place. The picture doesn't do it justice. It is beautiful. And all the buildings are like this. They are just so pretty and cozy. We found somewhere we could eat out on the street. It reminds me of Paris, how you can just eat on the street and see the going ons with people playing music on the streets setting the ambience just perfectly. Then we took a walk around to Copley square and they have a GUCCI shop! Yeah..I was too intimidately to walk in it. That is for tomorrow. I am going to get all dolled up and then go in. I won't buy anything of course, but it never hurts to look around :) That's another thing. All the shops are seperated. No MALLS! How I take that for granted. If I want to go to Macy's and Children's place have to go to the Theatre district. If I want american eagle I have to go to the Quincy market place...totally different area. I would be supremely skinny or an internet shopper if I had to live here. But they have beautiful parks here and tons of water features at the parks, eithher pools, fountains, etc. The kids would love it. In fact, today we saw a guy walking around the fountains in just his silk underwear. Said he was working on his tan...I just think he was missing a few marbles...but whatever makes him happy. I just count myself lucky he had his boxers on.

Today we were on a mission. To get tickets for WICKED and to conquer the Freedom Trail. Luckily for us, there were a few tickets left, so we were in for Wednesday, opening night. Next on the list, the freedom trail. Now the map says it is 2.5 miles long, but I think it is full of it! My aunt warned me that we probably wouldn't want to go on the complete trail but we were bound and determined to finish it. Michael and I began at 1:00pm thinking we had plenty of time. After 6 hours, we were exhausted and finally completed the trail. The USS Constitution museum shut the door on our way out which left us Bunker hill. Luckily it didn't really have a museum to close so we didn't miss much. We lost the rest of the sightseers halfway through trail, but we stayed steady and kept plugging along thinking we could just hop on the T (the subway) when we got tired. Little did we know that the T didn't run up to Charlestown. Aye de mi!!! But it turned out okay because we got to walk around there and decided this is where we would like to live if we moved to Boston. It was gorgeous. Well, enough talk talk, now I will show you the pics!

Me preppin myself for my Gucci debut

This is their library! Isn't it amazing! I think it will take me a day to explore.

Boston Common / Public park

Trinity Church (we plan on attending mass here on Thursday)
Statue of Paul RevereThis statue reminded us of Ava

The constitution

Massachusetts State House

Stain glass dome in state house First American Flag Good ole' Mitt

Paul Revere's headstone

Paul Revere's home

Probably as close to Italy as I am going to get

for a while. Little Italy. It was such a fun place and the nicest people there. They also know how to party!

One of my favorite facades. These are what the homes look like. How fun is that?!

This is actually a very old graveyard.

This was so cool. It is called Paul Revere's Mall. Which is decieving because it is not a mall at all. It is just a cool place they just sit and relax and play chess. Very peaceful.

And look at this! Twilight has hit Boston! Well...kind of. It is a clothing store but I thought it was kind of fun.

Pics of downtown

USS Contitution

Bunker Hill!!

We finally FINISHED! Can you see our exhausted state? It took us a while to get up. But it was worth it. Not bad for a day's work ey?

This is their High School! It looked so regal. And the red brick building is the afore mentioned fire house. Well, that is it for today. And this took far too long, so I don't think I will be posting for a bit. After all, I need to enjoy my vacation:)

We did it baby!

2010-04-22T12:59:00.001-07:00

I cannot believe that a year has past already. It seems like just yesterday that your little self made it's entrance into our lives. I can remember when I first saw your perfect little face with those beautiful eyes and all your HAIR! Everyone said it looked like you just stepped out of a salon before you came. You were just amazing and so perfect. I would count your little toes and fingers and be amazed at how absolutely perfect you were.

After a year you are still dazzling us...in more ways than one. You are a little spit fire that keeps us all on our toes. Your personality shines so bright. And when you smile....you light up the day. When you are happy, it seems everything else is fantastic. Some where within the year...you have claimed the pants in the family. At first I thought they were daddy's with an occassional use from me...but then dad said that I had them...so apparently you took them in all the confusion. I am astounded that a little one year old can have four people jump so fast with a simple shout out, but that shows you just how much we all love you.

And you love your sisters too. You love to play baby dolls with them or anything really. You love to dance to music which we need to record sometime because it is a sight to see....always adorable. I have enjoyed watching you learn and grow this year. It was amazing how much you took in after we got your tubes in, it was like you were a sponge just soaking it all in. I would have liked to watch you sleep a little more...but I caught the rare moments :)

From day one you had us all wrapped around your little fingers. Your sisters have adored you since the first time they held you and they still try to hold you even with a little fight from you. And to your credit...you have survived all their "lovin'" :) You are now a whole 29 inches tall, weighing in at 21 lbs.

I look back and the year just flew. I can't believe that you aren't my little baby anymore...but a walking talking toddler. Sometimes you will let me cradle you again but it is hard to see those days go. Ava you have truly been a blessing in our lives. We love you so much and can't wait to see what the next year brings. Happy late Birthday:) Here are some pictures throughout the year.

So what has been up with us?

2009-10-17T12:06:00.001-07:00

Since I can actually think clearly now...I was thinking maybe I would update myself and others on what has gone on while we were in a haze :) Michael has picked up a new hobby of running which I love because I actually love to do that too! We have finally found something we can do together except he runs at night and I run in the morning...but some day. He ran his first 5K about 3 weeks ago. We were so proud of him. We tried to be a huge welcoming crew but due to diversions, we weren't too impressive. But we were there to support our daddy and that's all that counts. Here is a picture from behind of his big finish. Keep in mind I am holding a baby too. I know...should have brought the stroller.

The girls thought that because they got up early and were there, they should at least participate in something...so for the good of the fundraiser...they played on all the blow up toys. Tough life for the kids I tell you.

Us waiting for him to come

Michael finishing up.

The kids enjoying the toys

Michael loves to run outside so he is gearing up for the winter months. I am trying to talk him into letting me show you a picture I took of his thermals...but I may not win this battle. Wish me luck...it gave us a good laugh and we like to share the joy:)

Chloe had her first field trip. It was to a park, but hey...she thought it was cool because she had some of her friends ride with us. And of course it is a good photo op. She loves preschool and her teacher, Miss Amy. As she puts it, "She is so so so so so Good to me." The kid cracks me up. She is getting to the age where she also likes having friends over. I love to watch them interact it is actually quite entertaining. And I have found it is impossible to keep this childs hair done. She is everywhere with no care in the world...something I just have to accept. But I love her adventuristic outlook on life, it is just rough on clothes.

Ava is just growing and growing. Too fast I feel. She is such a good natured and happy baby. She is sitting up and grabbing at everything. She has picked up quite the appetite and she really LOVES paper. She will find it anywhere. Her favorite is newspaper because it makes lots of sound when you crunch it and wave it around. She still gets a little frightened when her sisters come around but has learned that if she screams really loud, Mom will come to her rescue:)
And poor Ava has learned at a young age that if she sits quietly and real still, it will be over before you know it, meaning her hair of course. It really is amazing how still she sits while I do my braids or twists in her hair. It really is quite fun to see what you can do with her hair. There are some things she just will not allow, One: hair bows, two: head bands. Can't ask too much of the girl.

Laney has been loving school. She is reading like no other. We can't get her enough books to keep her busy. She loves it. If I have failed at everything else at least I can say..."My children love books!" It's like Christmas when we come home from the Library. We all sit down and look at the books we got. It's fabulous. In fact, if we dare to put them to bed without reading books, well, it just doesn't happen around here. She is making lots of new friends that is opening our eyes. We have been some what sheltered to the friends that live in a 1 minute radius, where I know their parents and are friends with them also. Not really ready to give that up.

Daddy reading to the girls before bed

We also decided that we needed to explore Utah a bit more. So one Sunday we were feeling adventurous and went for a drive to the dam. It was a gorgeous drive. I love the canyon in the fall. The kids had fun just being able to throw the rocks in the dam..that isn't allowed around here, so they were in heaven. Ava just likes to feel the wind in her hair. As long as she is outside, she is pretty happy.

And just in case you didn't know...it's Fall! I love fall. I love the colors, the temperature, the smell. I love it. So therefore, it's time for some new family photos. I am so excited to get some new photos up and have an actual family photo. I tried to get a warm up of the girls, but Ava took a really long nap and the girls were ruining their dresses so we will just have to wait for my friend to take them next week:) But here is one of Chloe and Laney...just a taster for what's to come.

And finally, Michael and I are catching up on some well deserved Rest. I still have a 3:30am call, but he gets to sleep all night now. And the girls are usually kind enough to take naps at the same time so I also get a nap for an hour or so. Life is great and just keeps getting better!

A new found faith

2009-10-17T11:54:00.000-07:00

Michael and I aren't ones that really enjoy complaining...yes we may do it at times, but at best we try not to. So not many people would know that our little bundle of joy has not slept more than an hour and a half stints at night. Mostly it is 45 min or an hour. We tried EVERYTHING! And let me tell you...I wonder if Dr. Sears even has children. When we were at our wits end...I asked our Dr. what could possibly be wrong with my baby. He was stumped and thought maybe some PREVICID. So we tried it and still no improvement. So when we are in dire situations where do we go? To Fingers...or Dr. Fingers we should say. Really his name is Dr. Hirshbrunner...but we know him as fingers. Why you may ask...because he can fix ANYTHING with only his two hands. True...there are doubters...myself sometimes included, but the man has literally solved every puzzle I have put before him.
So I took our little Ava wondering how on Earth he would be able to figure her out, but I should never doubt. He came through for me once again! It turns out she has a Hiatal Hernia that was causing other problems and keeping her up. HURRAY....we finally have an answer to our questions. Now can he fix her....OF COURSE! Normally the medical field would say that you need surgery to fix this problem, but Fingers doesn't believe in that mumbo jumbo. So he fixed her. People have asked me...hOW? Michael was a big sceptic and probably asked the question the most but my answer is always the same ...I have no clue...but he has. For the last four nights (I took her in on Tues) she is like clock work. She wakes up at 3:00am and at 6:30am. Some may say that is still bad but to a mom that has not gotten more than two hours of sleep for 6 MONTHS I say....HALLELUJAH! And she is not as cranky when she wakes up. All around, we are a happy household.
This blog is dedicated to Fingers...thank you, thank you, thank you! I can actually think clearly again...and those bags under my eyes are slowly disappearing. What would we do with out him? Hopefully we never have to know.

5 months already?

2009-09-04T12:13:00.001-07:00

It's official. Ava is now 5 months old. And to all those who said she would loose her hair, I balk! She has it still and tons more:) In fact, I am so used to it that I forget how rare it is, and usually that is the first thing people say is, "Look at all that hair." And sometimes I feel like saying, "I do, everyday...isn't it pretty?"

But really, I have to say to myself, where has the time gone? I can't believe she is 5 MONTHS old! It hasn't been slept away I'll tell you that much ;) She has grown so much and her personality just shines through. Her smile I tell ya...is something special. She is a sweetheart and a pretty funny baby at that. It is hard to keep my hands off of her little chubbas. So I thought it is about time to posts some pictures of the girl. I haven't found a whole lot of time to post or take pictures sadly, but last night...are you ready for this...she put herself to sleep during the night. Yes...we are so happy. Maybe turning 5 months old means that she can sleep longer than 2 hours. Actually we were counting ourselves lucky if it was 2 hours. But I had finally had it last night. Nothing was working so I just let her cry. It was sad...but somehow exhaustion eased my concerns. And apparently hers too because after about 1/2 hour, she finally went back to sleep and slept until 6:30!! WAhoo...that is about a 4 hour stretch. I should find some wood to knock on...hold on...okay, we are good. Hopefully tonight we can do it again! So here are some photos of the cutie.

So much to learn and explore. She is getting to the point where she is grabbing at everything. Including our food! We have had many a plates spilled on us.

This was her at 2 months.

Just relaxing.

She gets this look alot when her sisters are around. I don't know if it is scared or just questioning my reason as to why I have her on the floor so close to them:) They are great sisters, just a little overzealous sometimes.

And Laney has started a love for photography herself. So I think we may be purchasing a camera for the little turkey soon. Our hand-me-downs just aren't cuttng it for her. But I am excited to see her venture off and discover new things.

All in all, we are so lucky to have such wonderful girls. They make us smile and laugh in different ways, but they each have smiles that light up my heart. And I am starting to think the saying "If Mom ain't happy, ain't nobody happy" should really be revised to, "If the baby ain't happy, ain't nobody happy" :) LUcky for us she is a happy baby.

First day jitters

2009-08-25T17:38:00.001-07:00

I thougth that that my first day jitters were over. After all, I am done with school for now and I have found my career so hopefully no more first days there...I was finally at a point in my life where we were comfortable. But now, I get first day jitters for my little girl going to school. My little Laney who is so grown up. Where did the years go? I can remember the day I had her so vividly and all the times we had just her and I, chillin'. I remember potty training her, comforting when she got her tonsils out, teaching her preschool. She was my little baby....and now she is going to kindergarten. But she is so ready. I was so proud of her. She got right up, dressed herself, started doing her hair....she was just so excited. Because not only was this her first day at school, but all her friends were in her class. What could be better?! I thought about warning the teacher but hey ...she'll learn right?

Quick it seems because they sit right next to each other!

I have to say I did get a little teary eyed as I saw her off and she gave me the biggest smile and waved so big and then was off to do her own thing. No hesitation at all, she didn't need me anymore :( She was ready for her next big step!!! Well babe, it was a big day for you and me. I am glad she had a blast! I missed her at home but am glad that she will have some fun learning with all those friends :0 I did ask if she made any new friends and she said, "Well, a girl came and asked if I would be her friend and then she wouldn't play with me." I suggested that maybe she needed a little warming up ;)

What a poser!!

Where's Chloe?

2009-05-21T21:52:00.001-07:00

I find myself asking this a lot lately. Simply because wherever she may be, she is usually up to something. I love the little squirt, but man she can find trouble. Like last Sunday, we were all in the house, doing our own things when Michael comes in and asks, "Where's Chloe?" Hmmm...good question. We looked and looked...no Chloe. But then to our relief, our friendly neighbors drove up to deliver her. (Thanks Cindy & Jake) She thought she would go for a walk. Never occured to her to take her parents with her. Three things concerned me there. One...she got out of the house without us knowing. Two...she thought she could go for a walk without us even though I have told her dozens of times she can't go past the lamp post and three...she readily got in a car that wasn't her own. Guess we know what next family home evening will be about:)

Then just two nights ago I asked Laney (poor laney, my little runner when I am feeding Ava), "Where's Chloe?" "I don't know," was her reply. So I open the garage door and who do I find staring at me at eye level....Chloe. She had climbed up on the suburban and was just chillin'....enjoying the view I suppose. Again....one...HOW DID SHE GET UP THERE? and two WHY?!!! Some questions are just better off left alone.

Don't mind the hair do...after naps it gets a little CRAzY!

Small victories!

2009-05-21T21:25:00.000-07:00

I am happy to report that Ava took two full naps in her crib today....without being held. (obviously because she was in her crib) That is one of those small victories. I was able to clean my floor, fold my laundry that has been building for WAY too long, play with the girls and exercise. I feel like a new woman! Thanks Ava...you are a champ. Hopefully she will sleep in her crib tonight. Cross your fingers.

They just don't fit anymore...

2009-05-04T12:56:00.000-07:00

Here I thought I was the only one having issues with clothes. One morning Laney came in wearing some jeans that were slightly on the highwater side...so I suggested she go and change into some other jeans. So she came back all hurt and frustrated in some jeans that looked like tight capris. I couldn't remember buying them, so when she looked at me in distress and said, "Mom, all my clothes are TOO SMALL" I had to take a second look. She had grabed Chloe's new pair of jeans by accident and was putting them on. The thing is, she actually got them buttoned and on...amazing. I had to just laugh out loud which didn't make her happy because this was very traumatic. Then I explained to her that they were Chloe's and she still fit into all her clothes. She was very relieved.

How funny it is that even at a young age, it is still hard to adjust growing out of your clothes:) I myself have a VERY hard time with it.

Spring shots

2009-05-02T15:10:00.000-07:00

Now that I have no hands I find it hard to take pictures as much as I use to. But when I get a chance... I JUST can't pass it up. These are some pics of the girls in their Easter dresses.

I love how their personality truly comes out in their pictures. These girls are the light of my life...

they make me HAPPY!

Easter hunts

2009-05-02T14:42:00.000-07:00

The girls had a blast at all their easter egg hunts. It took the first hunt for Chloe to grasp what we were doing. She didn't quite get why we were picking up stuff from the grass and putting it in her basket, but when she saw all of sister's finds...she picked up quick. So on her next hunt, she was prepared.

The first hunt was at a park in Hooper. It was crazy, I don't think we will do that again. They just threw candy on the grass...well I could have done that with a lot less kids running around. But to their credit, they did have the easter bunny actually there, and that was fun.

Chloe a bit lost Laney doing her thing

The second was at Grandma and Grandpa's and that included breakfast so we were all happy. They had a blast at this one. Who wouldn't when you are surrounded by your cousins?

The fearsome crew...oh wait missing one..well two but one is Ava and she is snug in the house.

There's the missing one.

Working together...look at that.

Checking out the finds.

The third was at the church. I couldn't go to this one because I didn't want to take Ava out because it too included breakfast with a lot of people so I can't go into detail. But the girls came home proudo the their finds and Michael did a supurb job photographing it. Let's give him a thumbs up all around.

How cute is that? Setting off together.

So the girls were pretty happy with their finds. We kept the candy in the house for a couple of days then trashed it...very proud of myself. It was tempting let me tell you, but I overcame the candy call. You have to acknowledge the small triumphs in life. All in all, we had a blast with Easter, can't wait till next year!

Easter at the Rasbands

2009-05-02T14:26:00.000-07:00

We had a pretty fun easter egg coloring session I must say. But considering that last year we had to forgo it because Chloe was in the hospital...we don't really have much to compare it to. But with a creative dad, eggs, dye and sparkles how can you go wrong?

Dad does love to get creative. Here the girls thought they had everything they needed with some dye and some sparkles but oh how their eyes were opened. They never imagined you might need electric tape, scissors and lots of time. They soon found out you don't just dump the egg in dye, you create. Here are some pics of their creations.

And here is a pic of Ava on her first easter egg coloring experience. She knows how to party:)

Adjusting to three...

2009-05-02T13:47:00.001-07:00

You would think that after the initial shock of having one child, that it would get easier to accept when the doctor hands you number two or three. But I found that it doesn't. I still wonder why anyone would send me home with this little tiny infant. And now that I have three, I wonder to myself....ARE THEY CRAZY? And I was kind of scared...what am I kidding...I was really scared. Yes, I have some "helpers" that might make things easier but on the other hand, I have some "helpers" that try to help just a little too much. And here Ava is 4 weeks old and she has become just "one of the gang"as if it weren't any other way...now making the twosome and threesome.

But all in all, I think we are adjusting well. I don't have to tell Laney and Chloe quite so many times a day to keep their face out of Ava's. I am still afraid to take a shower if Michael is not here, but we have found ways around that. Today I thought Michael was here and was watching Ava. To my distress, Laney heard her crying and got her out of her bassinet and took her downstairs to watch tv while I was in the shower. Luckily Michael had to come back in to get something and realized my baby had been snatched :) I don't know what scares me more, her getting her out of the cradle by herself or taking her down the stairs....okay the stairs scare me most. They scare ME going down them. But the girls just love their little sister and I couldn't ask for anything more. And they take care of each other so life is going great. And they each have their duties. Chloe is on binky duty and takes it very seriously. She tries to know where it is at all times and that it is clipped to Ava. And if Ava should cry, she is the first on the scene to put the binky in the mouth. Maybe it is because she understands...I mean where would she be without her thumb? And Laney is the bouncer and music suplier. Again, if Ava should cry, she will sing to her and bounce her. That is one spoiled kid :) (I think she is praying she will live to her 1st birthday)
Watching some TV Wait, who is putting who to sleep?

What a good big sister

And it isn't as hard as I expected, maybe because Ava is really a good baby or maybe because I had myself prepped for something REALLY bad...I don't know but the adjustment has been relatively smooth (knock on wood). The hardest part is loosing my arms...but that will pass. I am just glad that I have the opportunity to hold my little one. They grow up so fast and my friend helped me put life into prospective from one of her blogs. There will only be a short amount of time that I am allowed to kiss them when I want, hold them all day long and hear about their crazy adventures. So I treasure the time and hope I can capture most of it in writing or film to come back to.

Crazy girls:)

She's finally here!

2009-04-05T14:17:00.000-07:00

Yes..our little one is finally here. And we are so excited. We narrowly missed having an April fool's baby, but and got an April 2nd baby :) Looking back, it is funny how things work out. We had scheduled an inducement date on April 5th, which was fine by me except that Grandma Ro wouldn't be able to see her on her short visit here. On April 1st, I was on the phone with her discussing the most "desirable" thing to happen was to have the baby on Thursday, April 2nd. Little did I know, my water had "sprung a leak" the night before. Never having had my water "break" I didn't realize it and kept about my daily activities (with just a titch of unexplained crankiness) :) But when it started becoming more of a flow than a drip, we thought it was probably time to go in. Thanks to Grandma Vickie for coming over and staying the night with the girls, we are pretty lucky to have her. We love you Mom:)

Also, when talking to a friend of mine a couple weeks prior, I told her, the only thing I am really terrified of is having contractions. I don't know why but I was trying to think of ways around it. Well, this is a case of knock on wood, where is it when you need it? Ava was very obliging and did come on Thursday so Grandma Ro could see her, and my anesthesiologist was not obliging and decided it was sufficient to just numb my legs...which is exactly what you want numb right ladies? NOT. So I was lucky enough to feel all the contractions with the help of Pitosin. An experience that you can learn from but probably not want to do again. But after all is said and done, we have our little Ava Reese. All 7 lbs 6oz and 20" of her. She finally came at 10:11am.
And we are so happy to have here. We love you little Ava.

Here are some photos of her special day.

And my sister requested LOTS of pictures since she can't be here...so here you go sis! Love ya.

You gotta love those pictures right after :) This is where I peeked under the cap and found a head full of platinum blonde hair.

And Chloe just loved holding her sister. She is happy she is finally here. Laney just wants to make sure she is alright and happy. What good sisters.

Grandma Ro and Grandpa Ramsey meeting Ava.

And finally Dad teaching Ava how to watch conference properly :)

Fun day at the park...or not.

2009-03-21T07:39:00.000-07:00

The weather has been absolutely beautiful here that the kids have been begging to go to the park. So we packed up a lunch, made plans with the cousins and headed off to enjoy a fabulous day at the park. And for the most part, it went pretty well. The kids loved playing with their cousins and running around everywhere like crazy people which probably led to the not so fun at the park.

Here's a picture of them before the accident.

Laney was running beside her cousin, Kaleb and their feet got tangled up. Laney went down so fast she didn't even catch herself. She hit her head on the ground pretty hard. Usually she just rebounds, but she looked at me with the weirdest look and on her way over to me she wasn't walking so great and when she reached me, her eyes rolled up in her head and she just went limp. She wouldn't respond to me or anything I did. Scared me to death. Finally after about 30 seconds, which seemed like forever, she started to rouse and to respond slightly. But if she tried to get up, her eyes would started going up again. So we packed up our stuff and headed up to the hospital all the while trying to keep the little munchkin awake, which became quite a chore for a while.

Luckily there was a doctor there that would fit us in. We had to get a cat scan to check to make sure no damage was done to her brain and go through some other tests. Again, lucky for us, 4 hours later, we walked out knowing our little Laney was good and healthy with just a mild concussion. We have to watch her closely for a while and make sure she doesn't hit her head again in the next week, but we feel pretty lucky. It is moments like that that you realize how many things you take for granted. I am so grateful for our two healthy little ones that can run and play and do all the things little kids love to do. And thanks so much for family. My sister was so nice to go to the hospital with me to keep Laney awake and to take Chloe while we did all our tests. Thanks Heath...your great:)

So that was our adventure for the day. The kids always keep things exciting.

Birthdays come and gone :)

2009-01-16T15:17:00.001-08:00

When I was young, it seemed like my birthdays would NEVER come. I would wait and wait and when they finally came, they were always a blast. Mom always made them so special. We would get a special breakfast and our favorite meal and Mom would make this panda cake that I loved. I knew it took her all day long which probably made me love it even more. I actually hated to eat it it looked so good.

And now I am the mom and look forward to making my little families birthdays so special. But I have to tell you that I was one lucky lady yesterday. I feel pretty special to just have people remember that special day and tell me. And my hubby was so good to me. He has a nack of listening quietly to my ramblings without really responding so I don't actually know that he is listening and then he suprises me. I was mentioning to him about a week ago that I would love a pedicure before I have the baby so at least one thing on my body looked good...plus who wouldn't love your feet massaged? But he just smiled and went on with the night. But what do you think I found taped to my mirror on my special day....you guessed it. A one hour pedicure....,just for me :) What a guy ey? And he found this great idea for a cake from his sis and decided to try that out and it was DE-LISH!! And my mom took me out to lunch and I had a blast. It has been a long time since my mom and I just went out to lunch. I might make it happen a little more...next time it will be my turn to pay :)

And I find as I get older my "wants" get bigger (imac, table saw,etc)....but my needs are simple. I just wanted or needed for my birthday this year to get together with my family and to chat and see what everyone is up to. It seems like it gets harder and harder to get together. It was fun to sit and talk and enjoy each other's company. We are so lucky to have family near by and good friends around us. My dear husband has to deal with a lot from me...he was hoping we could go out to eat to a nice restaurant or something, but thanks to baby #3, heartburn attacks and I stop eating at 4...so that was out. Can't watch a movie because I would be running to the bathroom ALOT. So chilling at my moms seemed like the perfect way to spend my 29th birthday....yes you heard right. Keep it on the low down. Next year will be a toughy for me...but lucky for my counting system, the NEXT year after that I will be 29 again and continue the chain downward. Who said you can't be 20 again :)

Birthdays are special for the simple fact that you can look back at the __ years of your life and see how everyone who has entered your life has touched it and made you who you are and be grateful for the years and suprises to come :) Thanks again everyone.

Just wanted to share the good news!

2008-11-24T18:07:00.001-08:00

We had an ultrasound a couple of days ago that told us we were having a perfectly happy, well proportioned little baby. Everything was working properly and I think we may even have another thumb sucker. I am working on getting the video on U tube so that everyone can see. We also found out the gender...any guesses? Come on....is it a boy or a girl? Or maybe we found out we were having two....oh goodness no...then I would also need a nanny :) We are having a healthy little....GIRL.

We are all very excited, (we would have been no matter what) but as Michael said, "At least we don't have to change our mindset". Yes...I would like for Michael to have a little boy, but darn it he is so good with his girls. And they simply adore him so why mess with a good thing. Plus, a little confession of mine, I have issues with changing boy diapers. I know, I know, it changes when it is yours, but I really think it would take some serious adjustment for me. So we are preparing for a little girl. Michael has even agreed to a name I like...MIRACLE! The girls are thrilled to have a real baby in the house and were very excited to find they were getting another sister. Laney promises me she will hold the baby all the time...that is going to be her job. So if I take the feeding job...does that mean that Chloe gets diaper duty? J/k Yeah...wouldn't that be a great sight. She is already trying to change herself. Thank goodness for Natures Miracle!! (It's a cleaning agent) I personally think it would be easier to just skip the diaper and go on the potty but I haven't quite talked her into that yet.

I am really getting excited for the nursery but I have to get my behind in gear. Time is running out. We are going to repaint the crib so that it is black...which will probably lead to the furniture also being painted. I am going to attempt to make the bedding...cross your fingers. I can't really find what I want so why not make it? Ask me how that goes in a few months :) We also are going to repaint the room, thankfully Michael is supportive on that one. I can start the painting project, but I am not so good at finishing. And we are also looking for bunk beds. So if anyone knows anyone trying to get rid of some....you know who to call. And of course, we need to get her some little outfits. Chloe was a little rough on the clothes area, so that gives me an excuse:) And while we are paining, I thought we should paint the bathrooms too. So what do you think. Is it do-able in 5 months? SURE...why not? Actually we are limited to the good weather so the paint fumes can air out. So maybe less...but Michael is superman so I am sure he can do it!

So wish us luck:)

New Things...

2008-10-28T15:06:00.000-07:00

This week I have to say was a crazy one. Have you ever overbooked yourself without knowing it and thought to yourself...."Why do I do this?" I do have a calendar and a planner, but do you think I look at them when I commit? Or I think I am superwoman that can do everything. Well, that was the case with this particular week. Not that you really want to hear about my week but there are a few things that I am proud of...one being my new experiment. We threw a baby shower for my sister-in-law on Wednesday. My sisters and I were happy to do it, but we all are alike....we think we are superwomen. So I thought I could bake everything for the party, my other sister thought she could go to the shower, her son and daughter's play and bring the main course, and my other sister thought she could go shopping for the gift last minute and have a perfectly decorated and cleaned house! Yeah...that pretty much sums us up. But you see, we can't just get my sister-in-law just ANY present. I have a reputation to uphold here! You see, I usually try to make something for each of my family members at least one time of the year, whether it be for their Birthday, christmas....you get the idea. But I have yet to make something for Yulisa. So this was my chance. I have had it in my mind that I want to make a diaper cake. I mean...how hard can it be? So after some serious talking into...I coersed my sister to go along. My oldest sister steered clear and did her own thing. So I went out and got the diapers, but my sister wanted to do the other shopping. (She has a nack for shopping...its just her thing) So Laney, Chloe and I started rolling diapers. 94 to be exact. And when Daddy came home, he started rolling diapers. It was a family affair. And at 9:30 at night the night before the shower, my sister came with the other stuff. I threw the cake together and have to say....I am dang proud of myself. I know...that is bad to say. But come on...it is CUTE! And it has all the baby neccessities. And while waiting for the baby, it will look awfully cute in the nursery. I even made her some headbands and some jewelry. She will look adorable :)

So here is a picture of that.

The next thing that I am awfully proud of is me hubby! Saturday was another day I definitely overbooked. We had Stake Relief Society Temple day on the same day as our Ward Halloween party. Which wouldn't be so bad, except that we, the RS presidency, had to set up a miniature golf hole that we committed to doing and we also had to fix a soup. So I got up at 6:30 in the morning, an unusal thing for me and got ready. I have to say though, I felt something brewing that morning and knew I was in for something the next day. (It sooned turned into a bad sinus infection...ugh!) Any how...I was able to go to breakfast with the ladies and then spend a delightful morning in the temple, which was long overdue I must say. When I came home, the girls had been bathed, fed, dressed, hair done, teeth brushed and were out playing with the neighborhood kids. Michael was out diligently working in the yard cleaning it up and preparing the little island for the tulips and daffadils I was going to plant. So even though I wasn't feeling so hot...I went out and planted those because of his thoughtfulness in weeding it and getting it ready. But I then had to leave again to get the hole ready. While I was gone, Michael fixed his Green Chili Chicken soup that we love so much in mass for the ward and when I got back, we got the kids ready and headed off to the party. It was great to know that I could rely on him to take the kids when I needed to get some stuff done and it was really great to have a morning off and go to the temple. He even took the girls out to breakfast...which of course they had a blast.

This is the picture that greeted me when I was done at the temple. If that doesn't make your day, well....

Chloe was our little Tinkerbell. That's what she wanted to be and she looks almost just like her. It was perfect for her. it was also hard to keep that pixie still for a bit to take a picture...Jeesh!

Laney chose to be Aurora this year which also fits her. I love having these little princesses. It is fun to see them spin and have so much fun. Plus when they see another princess they get all excited thinking they are the real one. No matter that they are only say...3 or 4 feet tall! They are wearing the dress, they must be them!

Little goofballs!

Nostalgic...

2008-10-28T14:07:00.000-07:00

Michael often teases me that I am extremely Nostalgic about some things. Mostly things having to do with my family, which I do agree. I mean, obviously there are some memories I would NOT like to revisit, but some I cherish. I don't know if you are like me, but just a smell or sound might send me back. There are two places in my life that for some reason, (I think I know that reason) I am extremely nostalgic about. Just the smell after it rains will send me to Park City among the pines. Everything smells so fresh and clean. Certain textures of snow will send me back to the slopes where we used to all ski together. My mom absolutely loves Park City and I think she passed that love to us kids. Michael knows that if a chance ever arrived that we could get a time share there, I would jump in a minute. I would love to build the memories I had up there with my kids and leave them with a little piece of my "heaven".

Another place that I love is Bear Lake. I remember waking up in the morning to the sound of jet skis on the lake. Still to this day, if I wake up to that sound, I magically go back there when I was a little kid. I remember playing the game of who can see the lake first, when we came over the mountain top, I still get teary eyed every time I see it. When my mom asks why we love it so much, I can't really tell her. I don't remember specific memories, I just remember being happy. I knew Dad loved it there and almost became a kid himself every time we went. I remember it being fun and our family was together every time. We built good memories there. But I mostly remember it in the summer because that is the only time we went up. But now my mom and dad have a place that can handle the winters there and we are able to go up at every season. I still love it up there, our activities just change. This time, we went up in the fall and saw all the different colors. We were able to go on a 4-wheeler ride that was awesome! Chloe just loved it. I try to tell Michael we need some 4-wheelers cause Chloe will do anything to get on one :) But we did have a fun time. I even got one of the 4-wheelers stuck in this thick clay. Luckily my brother came to join us because he had the wench! So I will let the pictures do the talking...but I would like to be able to pass on some pieces of my "happy" places on to my kids and let them know how much I loved it and why. And hopefully they will have their own memories, happy ones that will take them back with a simple smell or sound.
The kids loves a good ride! And is even patient with the helmet rule.

Look closely, you might see Chloe slipping during the wheeley...crazy dad!

The 4-wheelers were looking pretty bad after my little "incident". What a good brother ey? Michael wouldn't even come close to me for fear he would get stuck :) To his defense he did have my daughter on the back. It was pretty yucky. They needed a bath bad....we were in luck! There was a great big one right by us!

Josh and Yulisa when they joined our adventure.

And just some scenic views of the Lake in the fall. You can see why I love it there. It is beautiful.

Search and find..

2008-10-03T20:25:00.000-07:00

So football season has begun and usually I really dreaded...I mean really dreaded it. But now I appreciate it. It is something my husband loves to do (even though he doesn't do it as much as he may like to) and it opens up some time I can do something I enjoy :) I have started scrapping again. Well not exactly, I like to do just fun pages with the pictures so I can frame more than one. Recently, I was lucky enough to take some photos of my friends twins. So I just played around with them and made some pages, so don't get confused. These are not my twins :) But, true to the title of the blog, there will be a suprise in one of the pages so look close. But they are adorable twins, hope she doesn't mind if I post them. So here are a couple that I did.

And here is a page of the girls. Finally I got some time to do some of them. Granted this isn't my best page, but I was under some time restraints.

And here are some pics of the girls new favorite past time thanks to Dad. He taught them how to stand on their heads. I don't know how he managed to show them, it gives me a headache just looking at them. But they have a blast doing it. So Grandma and Grandpa...you just might get a show during your visit.

Well, that's all for tonight. So did you find it? The suprise that is. If not, here is a hint, count how many angels there are:)

In case you still can't find it, Michael and I and the girls are expecting another little rasband in April. We are extremely excited and a little intimidated. We will be outnumbered. But not really because the little one will have 3 mothers:) Laney and Chloe are very excited, especially that they can talk about it now. They have kept a pretty good secret if you don't mind me saying. And have been practicing on their holding techniques. They get it right 90% of the time...we will have to work on the other 10.

Christmas list

2008-09-23T15:05:00.000-07:00

So Grandma Ro asked us to make a list of Christmas desires of our little ones and you wouldn't think this would be so hard. I have been working on this for about two weeks. It's not that there isn't anything out there that they want...its NARROWING it down. In fact...I am starting to really dislike commercials in the morning. I am tempted to quite tv...I know...very brave statement, but COME ONE already. They know how to get those little girls I tell you.

So instead of giving this list of exactly what the girls want I am just going to give an idea of what they like. They love to sit around and play with they My Little Pony Ponyville sets. I didn't think Chloe would, but she does. Cuz really anything Lanes does, she loves. Works out great when they share :)

They newest and greatest of the commercials for the ponies is the carnival set.

And they would really love this...but Grandma don't fold to the pressure. It is only a mere $359!!! Can you charge that for something? But of course they might need some more ponies to add to the fun :)

The girls also love princesses!! They love to play them, they love to watch them...you name it. The new thing out now is a pony for each princess that actually walks...I tell you, when will they stop? But of course they saw that on the tv. They love to play with these dolls, but they have itty bitty shoes. But it makes the girls happy. And Laney keeps talking about a princess castle. I am at a loss, but if you find one, she would love you.

They love Dora...still. That little loveable girl always has a home here. Apparently there is one you can take in the bathtub that has caught their eye...what could be funner?

And they absolutely LOVE dolls. You could get them accessories...clothes have been the big thing lately but I can't really find any so I resorted to getting a pattern...yeah..which me luck.

They love books, movies, games, puzzles, PJ's, etc. They are so easy to please. You could get them a soccer goal and they would love it. One of the many things I love about these sweeties. Now if you want to be SUPER Grandma what they REALLY REALLY REALLY want is a swingset (Mom kind of wants that too). But not just any swingset...a Lifetime one. Hey...I thought everyone gets an outrageous item on the list! Hope that helps Grandma. The girls can't wait to see you in a month!

P.S. The pony stuff was on sale at Amazon if you want to take a look.

Disneyland ..we came...we conquered!

2008-09-15T14:08:00.000-07:00

Sorry, the next few blogs are kind of a recap because I was so "lazy" this summer and didn't get to it. But in my defense, I still wrote about it in word with the intent of blogging later.

June was a very fun and exciting month for us....let me tell you. A month could not be more fun packed! It all began with a trip to California. Who wouldn't want to spend a few days with the breaking waves in the background, just relaxing and reading a book? And even better, to spend a few days with disney princesses? We had a great time relaxing on the beach for the first day. The girls just played in the sand and ran from the waves. I myself went for a quick boggy boarding escapade....and escapade it was. Too bad I don't have pictures to document. Bri, Whit, Madyson and I went out to catch some monster waves. But we were finding that where the life guards wanted us to stay wasn't the greatest places to catch the waves. So we meandered out to where the surfers were. If they could be out there....why couldn't we? Which may I say...the waves were much better out there (probably why the surfers were out there.) But before long, we see a yellow lifeguard boat coming towards us, telling us to get in. Bri of course just turns around, if she can't see them, they can't see her right. And what do I do when confronted, explain. We were just out there because the waves were better. That didn't fly...they wanted us to go in. So we caught the next wave in and had a blast. So much so...we went out again. We didn't intend to go as far...but when the waves a come a callin' you have to answer. So again, the yellow boat comes and says, "What did we tell you girls? Get in now." And just to accentuate that, they had a lifeguard swim out from the beach. How insulting...I had caught every wave in...did they think I was incompetent...so I said...the waves are better here and we can catch them in. Did that work....NO. They made us go in....what kill joys! So I thought that was enough humiliation for Michael for one day. It's not easy for him having me for a wife...but I love him for it.

I don't really want to bore with details...but the trip was so fun. We spent two days in Disneyland and California adventure....very needed. The girls had a blast and we really enjoyed ourselves. We saw a lot of characters and even ate with the princesses! The girls loved it and according to Chloe....Rella is EVERYWHERE! She loves that lady:)

The kids past some of the time watching videos. Apparently Chloe felt she had phone calls to make, people to talk to...no wasting time. And Laney just loves cuddling up to Kaleb:)

We also taught the girls to play, I don't know what it is called, but you catch the ball with the stick with a net. They had a lot of fun trying to get that down.

See what I mean about relaxing on the beach...oh if I could have the beach in my backyard!

The girls enjoying the beach. They played well together which always makes a mom happy!

Sundays were a little difficult for us. The kids didn't quite understand why they had this big ocean to play with and they couldn't step foot in it. So they just got as close as they could without us telling them otherwise.

And here are our princesses! We had lunch with them so they all came around and visited the girls which made them so happy! And then of course you would sometimes get lucky enough to see them around the park.

And of course the princess fair where they teach the girls how to be princesses!

Some pics of our rides and the fun the girls had at Disneyland.

The girls playing around while waiting for a prade. A pic of the family in Pooh-vill. A panoramic of California Adventure...the big white building is Ariel's grotto (where we went for lunch).

We thought the boys might appreciate this guy. But someone forgot to tell us that this parade sprays you with squirt guns. Luckily we came prepared.

We had a blast at the theme parks, but I must say, by the end of the second day, we were definitely all tuckered out.

Here is a farewell pic by the beach.

Sunday at the temple

2008-09-14T17:16:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that today started out a little rough. The outlook of having Stake conference at 3pm -5pm wasn't my idea of a fabulous afternoon. But, when you get lemons...make lemonade! We couldn't get the girls down for their naps in enough time for them to get a full nap and us to actually make it to the tabernacle on time, so instead we got everyone all beautiful and went to the temple grounds to take pictures. I know...the girls favorite thing to do..but today they were good sports because water was involved.

I can't think of a better way to spend the afternoon than to walk around the temple grounds and just take snaps of the girls enjoying the beautiful landscape. I wish my yard looked as beautiful as the temple does but what can I say...I am just not paid enough :)

But the girls did enjoy it and I enjoyed taking photos of them, so all in all, it was a great afternoon. The conference was a little rocky simply because something was wrong with the microphone so everything was kind of blurred. Needless to say, we didn't get much out of it, but the singing was excellent and we were able to be in the presence of all the other saints on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. And to look at the positive side again, while we waited for the late afternoon to arrive, all the girls got mini-pedicures from emoi (sp?) and all our nails painted so we all looked all done up! Michael declined for unkown reasons but we still love him :) Here are some pics.

You can tell who is becoming a pro at posing. Lanes knows if she smiles cute and does what I ask quick then she can do whatever she wants sooner. Smart girl. And sometimes she doesn't even know when I am shooting. (sometimes those are my favorite) We are still training Chloe. I have to catch her off guard to get her to smile. Notice how she is very rarely smiling AT the camera.

And even if she doesn't smile at the camera...that is a pretty darn cute smile she has got there. Very infectious!

And sometimes when I am really lucky, I get everyone together...or at least the two to sit still long enough for some quick takes!

And this photo I just couldn't pass up. Look at that face!

Hanging up the slippers

2008-09-13T15:00:00.000-07:00

Laney has decided to hang up the dance slippers for just a bit. Which is understandable, so we are broadening our horizons. She decided to try soccer for a bit. We tried to get on her cousin's team...but with hind sight on my side...I think we are lucky we found another team. Her first game was against Kaleb and they got confused. They thought they were playing on the same team and although they tried to keep up with the game, really they talked and played around on the field a lot :)

This team that she is on is really good. Her first day she was a little hesitant because she didn't have any friends on it. But two little boys got her and said, "You will have so much fun. We run and play a lot, but mostly we just run." It cracked me up. From then on she has been chatting their ears off. But they do have about four boys that are REALLY good. They score at least 3 goals a game if not more. Hopefully they will teach Lanes their secrets. Here are some pics.
Look at her get in there! You go Girl!!

Team time out...a little team time. With the next pictures you can see how it gets a little rough out there!

Hanging close to the coach.

And her and Kaleb chatting it up down the field. It's all about the fun right? And that, she is having plenty of!!

Happy Mother's day!!

2008-05-12T13:19:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother's day to all those mothers out there! I hope your day was fabulous! Mine was a bit different than I would have liked it. I was still sick in bed. That makes 7 days!! Not good for a mom. Someone needs to tell my body to get with the program! But Michael and the girls were troopers. Today is a much better day...I got out of bed for one :)

Yesterday was a great day though. Laney came up and delivered their Mother's day present with Chloe in toe....they are darn cute. It was the cutest card too....she had written "Happy Mom's Love you"....so cute! It is so fun to see each milestone met by your kids....but it affirms that they are growing sooooo fast. Daddy fixed them crepes because that is one of my favoritest things. He was perfecting them the night before when we had dessert ones with ice cream, nutella and whip cream with some strawberries.....oh how he spoils me! Then he got them ready for church when I decided I needed to see Delaney sing in Sacrament meeting. So I dragged my sick toushy out of bed and got presentable so I could see my baby girl sing the songs she had worked so hard on. It makes me so emotional to see how proud she was to sing it to me! Can you tell I adore my kiddos? But right after that, I was outtie ....That was almost too much...and then to bed I went.

It is always makes you stop and think, Why can these little ones that we bring into the world make or break our day. With simple things they say they can make you cry because you are so darn happy or laugh so hard it hurts. They can make a dark day light or vice versa. And you wonder why? Because they are our world....these kiddos are what we mother's live for. At least for me. If they are happy and excited....so am I. If they are hurt and confussed....so am I. I can only hope that I can guide them as well as my mom did! Hats off to you mom...I am sure I was not an easy teenager (although I profess to have been perfect :)) I am lucky to have had the great mom I did and hope that I can emulate her great qualities and use them in my mothering and that my kids will ALWAYS KNOW I love them! I love you kiddos....that includes you too Michael. Happy Mom's Day and thanks for making mine so special.

Mother's moments...

2008-05-07T11:55:00.000-07:00

Just to warn you, this is more for Michael and the girls, but I thought I would share my feelings with all. There are some days in a mother' life, when she thinks "What am I doing?" Routine seems to eat up all the fun and the mundane things in a day seem to drown out the good things. But then there are the other days that make you stop and take stock of what you have..yesterday was that day for me.

It all began Monday afternoon. I felt something brewing so I started popping the vitamin c pills. Apparently I didn't catch it quick enough because by Monday night I was out of commision. I couldn't even make it out for a neighborhood chatting session (which I love). I went straight to bed hoping that through the night I would get better. I was awakened by a gentle kiss on my cheek, my little 3 year old wanted to say goodnight to her mom and her little sister soon followed for some hugs. That night I just tossed and turned until about the time Michael was supposed to get up for work. He rolled over and asked how I felt. "I feel rotten" was my reply (why lie, I sounded awful!) He asked if I wanted him to stay home. I said no, I could handle it. He asked if I as certain and I said, yeah...I can do it. He, being a loving husband, saw through my bravado and called my bluff. He stayed home to let me rest. And that I did all morning long. Michael took the girls to the park and returned to put them down for a nap. And I too took another nap. It is when I woke up that I realized how lucky I am. I have the world right here in my little home. I have a husband that loves me enough to let me stay in bed all day long and rest. I have two little girls that missed me while I was sleeping. Laney even brought me my medicine so I didn't have to get out of bed to get it. She would check on me and give me an update on what was going on and Chloe just liked to cuddle with me in bed.

I am one lucky lady. SO..I decided to write a list of loves so that my kids and hubby will always know that even if I am sick or away, I love them dearly and miss not spending my day with them. And to let them know that each day spent with them is a blessing beyond measure!

I love to watch them sleep at night-they are so innocent and sweet I can't get enough of it.

Sometimes I find myself in their rooms just watching them sleep peacefully.

I love to watch them play when they don't think I am watching!

This seems to be my favorite lately. Chloe is hilarious. She rocks to her own toon and is

hilarious doing it. She makes me laugh. And Laney is such a big kid now and says the

funniest things. And sometimes she sounds just like me, which makes me make a mental

note to stop doing it. They have such fun personalities and imaginations that it makes me

laugh when I watch them. Plus they play so well together that it makes me feel like something

I am doing is right :)

I love it when my hand brushes Michael's as we walk-it takes me back to the dating life when you

just anticipate if he is going to hold your hand or not. Same when he puts his arms around me

when we are talking to friends. It makes me feel like he is proud of me and that he loves me.

I love to sing with my girls - my prayers were answered because my girls love to sing and I love

hearing them make up their own songs or singing the ones I sing to them to go to sleep.

I love the little arm hugs - what can be sweeter than your little ones giving you the biggest hugs ever

with their tiny little arms.

I love their kisses - enough said there!

I love to hear them say I love you.

I love to see the look on their face when they are looking for you and finally spot you! Their big

smiles that take up their face and the excitement in their voice.

I love to hear them say "Mommy". -sometimes it is overused and overshouted, but I love to hear it

from their little mouths.

I love to hear them talk about Jesus - Delaney is just now understanding the role Jesus played in

our life and it is exciting to me to watch her make the connections and get a love and

testimony of Jesus.

I love to hear them pray and watch them fold their arms - what special little spirits we are entrusted

with. What joy that simple act gives me. They have such innocent hearts...if only to be like a

child.

I love to watch them learn something new - which may I say Chloe found out how to get out of her

crib. Luckily she only does it when nap is over and it is time to get up and then I

hear a pounding on the door and ...."Mom...I want out!"

I love to see their new getup they put together - this morning chloe walked in in her diaper and her

knee pads on...I wish I took a picture. Laney helped her with the knee pads but it was darn

cute. And she didn't want them off. Laney comes up with some good ones...but now she is

into doing her own hair which is always fun to see what she comes up with. It usually entails A

LOT of barrets and clips and almost alway, a head band.

I love to hear the garage door open around 6:00pm - that means DADDY IS HOME!

I love how the girls play hide and seek with who ever is coming home.

I love to see their excitement and seeing people they know, or experiencing new things.

And most of all I just love them! Life would be so empty if I didn't have their smiling faces to wake up to. I love being a mother and a wife. I could go on and on about my "love's" but really I just want to let Michael and the girls know that I love them very much and I love and appreciate the little things they do each day to make me laugh and to remind me that life is fun and good and to never be taken for granted....and sometimes routine needs to be shaken up a bit :) Thanks Michael for letting me recover...I love you......THIS MUCH!( )(My arms)

Riding the Frontrunner!

2008-04-30T13:09:00.001-07:00

For preschool yesterday, we thought it would be fun to take the kids on the frontrunner, which is the commuter rail that is up and running now. I personally have been looking forward to this since we moved here because I thought for sure it would improve Michael's commute. Well, we are about to see.....

So we get there at 9:00am and the kids are SOOOO excited. You can hardly keep them from talking about it. Laney was just so excited for the train to come and pick her up and the boys...well, they were boys and challenged each other to see who could get on first. The train came and we all found nice comfy seats. The train cars were really nice, I was very suprised. The kids just loved watching out the window as we passed other cars, houses, businesses, etc. But about a half hour into it, I realized I forgot to go to the bathroom before leaving the house (a big no no) and the kids began to get a little restless. My first priority, to find a potty ( I know, it should have been the kids, but I really had to go) and that I did. It was amazing nice also, but a little nauseating since there is no window but a lot of rocking! So I was glad to go back and face my next priority. Entertaining the kids. We managed to get to Salt Lake and were excited to go on our adventure tour of temple square, the conference center and the church history museum, and then off to a park to eat some grub, which may I say I also forgot to eat breakfast (It is hard to get out of the house by 8:30! Give me some credit...at least I brushed my teach ...in the car) so I was getting really hungry.

Landon in front of the train after ride

The frontrunner drops you off at the tracks station so that you can commute using them...which the kids also enjoyed. We just had to figure out which one to hop on and let me tell you, the guys that work there that were giving us advice either didn't speak great english or spoke in riddles. Finally I just guessed and we acutally ended up where we were supposed to be....WHEW!
The flowers all over temple square....beautful!! I couldn't stop to take more, you will see why in a minute

In front of the Christus

The closest thing I will get to a class picture...taken on Temple Square

We toured temple square, visited the Christus, smelled some flowers and looked at the temple. Then we headed over to the Conference Center where we toured the top. It is pretty amazing how they can construct such a grand building and have a beautiful garden WITH a fountain on top! Pretty impressive. In there, we saw the hall of the prophets and the room where all the pictures of the 12 apostles are, which was fun to see. Laney was looking for President Hinckley and was excited to find him. Then we peaked into the actual room where conference was held....it is so HUGE! It never ceases to amaze me.

Chloe fascinated by the elevator in the conference center

You can see by these pictures there is a common denominator....WATER! They are drawn to it no matter where we go. And the pictures pretty much document how it was. We get them somewhere for a pose. Someone runs out, someone runs in...someone almost falls in....Very eventful.

Laney was a big help though...trying to be all grown up and pushing her sister while being tickled by her cousin. She is getting good.

These are taken on top of the conference center...see you can see the temple in the background. Yeah...we made the tour guide a little nervous. I guess a boy fell over the railing about 5 years ago. These kids are fearless. But we could see daddy's building to the left...you can't but we could. He couldn't see us either...but we called to see if he could.

So by now, the kids are dragging and we are all pretty hungry. May I say, that we had two grandmas with us...on that had MAJOR surgery about three weaks ago, on mother who just had twins three weeks ago, and well me....who skipped breakfast...okay so I wasn't a big deal. I could have kept going but everyone else was ready for a break. So we called our daddy and met him for lunch. It always melts my heart to see the girls run to their daddy the way they do. They truly adore him! I almost cried. CAn a man asked for anything more than to be adored by 3 ladies?!!

Lunch was anticlimatic since McDonald's ran out of ice cream, but we all survived. Luckily for us there are a gazillion mcdonalds and surely we can find one that has some :)

Everyone was ready to go by then. It is hard work coralling 6 kids....us adults were exhausted!! And poor Laney and Chloe. They were about an hour past their nap time and I thought Laney was going to fall asleep mid-step. I hoped they would sleep a bit on the train....but....no such hope.

When we finally got to the train via the tracks, the train was standing room only. Not a good thing. So I began going through the trains (holding Chloe mind you, while the train was moving) to find a seat for Betty (grandma that had surgery) and Laurie (mother of twins) to sit. I can stand, after all I had eaten :) I had gone through 3 crowded trains to no avail. And I became a little disgusted at this point. There were men that watched me fight through the trains with a kid and never once offered up their seat nor did they help me through. I was so disgusted I stopped my search and began to return. At this point people go upset at me for interrupting them TWICE...heaven forbid. But two little Asian ladies saw me and said there was a chair on the second level and I should take it with my little one. I thanked them but told them about Betty and they said to hurry and go get her before the seat was taken. So on my return, I was going down some stairs when the train jolted. I fell, trying to catch myself and causing a rucus and what do you know.....NO ONE even tries to help. Luckily I saved Chloe but I tell you, my leg is feeling it today. I did get one man to peer around the corner to see what was causing the rucus, but that is all. No are you alright, can i help you, is your baby fine....nope. Disgusting isn't it. So I finally made my way back and poor Betty had to sit on the stairs while the rest of us tried to entertain the kids for the hour ride home.

Pics of everyone being such good sports, including Betty. My hat is off to her.

So to sum it up....it was an adventure for sure. I don't know if I would do it again, but the kids had fun and it was a good experience for me. It is a testement why I avoid crowded areas and why I do not want to live in Salt Lake. Most people are not very nice. Michael swears that if we had been on his bus, that never would have happened, so I have to say, he is probably better on the bus than the frontrunner.

But don't think the whole experience was a downer. It was really fun to see the kids excitement at the whole adventure because that is what it was for them....after all, how many times do you get to ride a train?

Can I plant now?

2008-04-27T14:57:00.000-07:00

It is now approaching the end of April and I am so anxious to be PLANTING! I want color, smells, and life just blooming in my yard. Michael worked so hard last year to get us grass and it looks so great, but wouldn't it look even better with beautiful flowers all around? And lucky for me, Michael has been working like a madman to get the soil ready for the flower gardens and the veggie garden. I felt bad, a couple of weeks ago, Michael asked me where and what I was going to plant. And to completely get the jist of this story, you have to understand our beautiful relationship. You see, I am the dreamer. I see these elaborate things and want to do them. So either I begin by buying all the stuff or just starting the project. Then, my dream becomes reality and I realize that it is going to take ALOT of work, and that is where Michael steps in. He is the finisher! It really works out nicely. So back to the story...I begin to tell him the things I have seen in my mind and he just rolls his eyes. You ask why? Because he knows, that he will be the finisher....poor guy. What has he gotten himself into? Well anyways, he feels he should use this as a teaching moment for me and tells me he is not going to do anything else until I get a definite plan. WHAT!!? Me? That is supposed to be his job.

Well, that doesn't stop this dreamer! I sat down one afternoon after the girls were asleep and I did plan. I did a map of our garden and placed everything where it should be according to the directions. I was rather proud of myself and decided to extend my organization to the front of the house. Oh...grandma and grandpa you will have to come and see the finished product. I am so excited!! I am going to have a beautiful butterfly garden with aromatic smells wafting through the air. I don't know of anyone that isn't going to want to plant themselves right on my porch. I guess I should probably factor that in and put a sitting area around there. Well, that will be another project for another day. Here are a few pics to wet your whistle. But to get the full effect, you all will have to wait with the rest of us.

Imagine these growing up a vine on the side of

the house & around the door....oh beautiful!!

It's going to be wonderful...if only I could get the weather to cooperate!

Now...one last thing. Does anyone have an "in" with the weather. If so, I would like to request some spring weather so that I might begin my little heavenly abode. For right now, the dreamer must continue dreaming ... since how Mr. Frost continues to visit my garden areas. I love when they say till after the frost....with this unpredictable weather how am I supposed to know?

I am shooting for the middle of May, cross your fingers.

Does everyone have their new Fablehaven?...

2008-04-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

I don't know if anyone has read the "Fablehaven" books, but if you haven't, you need to! They are excellent for kids and adults alike. So Brandon Mull (the author) has just come out with the third book and he had a party last night to launch it. The girls and I decided to go. I was extremely excited and Laney can't ever pass up a party! :) Plus her cousin would be attending with her! What fun. Michael couldn't join us because he had a softball game, you can imagine how sad he was :(

So about 5 o'clock-ish....we headed out for our jaunt to SLC. Normally it wouldn't phase me, I've driven that drive a gazillion times, but for some reason, lately I have been a bit sheepish about driving...I don't know why...call me crazy. But this time was a bit more scary since they decided to cover half of the freeway with orange cones, cement baracades and cut what should be 3 lanes down to 2 VERY small lanes.....COME ON!!! Get it done already....okay, enough of my ranting.

So after my fine navigation skills got us there with no delay, (may I say before my sister who had GPS, just a little pat on the back for me) we hurried to get seats to see the big show. And for those of you who attended BYU, you might know of the Garrens comedy group. Well Brandon Mull used to be apart of them while he attended that so he asked all his friends to come and perform for his part-tee and let me tell you, they are still hilarious. They even had Laney rolling! ( I don't know if she knew why...but she was laughing and that is all that counts) Laney read the story with me and liked it at the time, but I don't know if she remembered it much. Guess I will have to read it again:) So after all the fun and prizes and so forth, we all had to wait around the for the book signing. Unfortunately we got there late so I was in group G...not a good thing.

But while we waited we got to see Muriel the Witch. We tried to get the kids to pose with her but they were a bit intimidated and we had to wait in line...that seemed to be the theme for this night. So we improvised.....

Muriel Laney preparing to meet her

Us talking them into going to sit by her..unsuccessful

Then, they had a poster of a cataur (I think that is how you spell it and I am too lazy to go and check right now) where you can put your head through it....

Chloe Laney's is wigging out...sorry. I'll fix it later.

The girls thought that was fun...but again you had to wait in a long line, so I improvised again. I love photoshop!

I think I have come to a point where I don't like to go where a lot of people are. They are pushy and I am not patient enough to WAIT and WAIT. Which is why we ended up not staying for his signature. I mean really, all it is going to do is mess up my nice new book right? Unless he gets famous which I think he is on the way, but then again all those other people have his signature. Oh well...so long story short. After an hours wait, they were only on group C....and I was group G. It would be 10:00 before we got to my group. The girls were hungry, antsy and running around everywhere and I was ready to go....so off we went.

The weather may be fickle here...but it sure is b-e-a-utiful!

Chloe running amuck...bad lighting sorry again.

The Party was fun while it lasted and was a good experience...so we will mark as an excellent activity on a Friday night. Too bad the other I don't know 500 people didn't decide not to come...then it would have been even more fun :) Guess you can't always have it your way. But I did get to see a most beautiful sunset by the mountains. I tried to get a good shot, but it just doesn't do it justice...sorry. So here is my little plug....get the book and read it! They are fun.

April Showers....

2008-04-23T14:31:00.000-07:00

I hope because April did bring the showers that May will bring her flowers! We have been lucky to recieve lots of moisture in many different forms this past month. From snow, to hail, to just plain rain. It is kind of a guessing game as to what each day will bring.

As a recap because, again, I am not so good at the daily, nor weekly update we have had a fun April. We got to spend a few days with Grandma Ro and Grandpa D at the end of March, which we all enjoyed. Then we got to go up and enjoy a relaxing weekend at the Lake for General Conference, which I loved to watch. It had such great talks that seemed to be directed to me....it just boosts that testimony that these are special men being guided and directed. But on the way up there, Chloe discovered headphones. We have tv monitors in each headrest which allows them to watch movies, but in order to hear, you need headphones. Well, usually we just put the headphones above Chloe's carseat and it is loud enough for her to hear. BUT now she thinks she is old enough to wear them on her head. It took a couple of tries to get it right. This kids is something else. She knows how to make you smile.

She was so proud when she finally figured it out.

She has also discovered that she likes bananas. But you can't cut them up, she has to eat them in chuncks, and bites are unheard of!It is much better if you just shove it all in so we get an icky mess. But the girl knows what she likes.

And since the weather has been so unpredictable, we have to take every chance we can to enjoy the warm weather. So on one of those so called "warm" days, we packed up and had a picnic in the park and enjoyed some play time. Laney wouldn't stay still long enough for me to get some pictures of her (a little excited to be outside) so Chloe gave me a tour. She was so excited, it was like a treasure hunt for her. Every corner held new suprises just waiting for her to discover.

She is getting so big...when did that happen?

Besides preparing the yard for planting, we have tried to fill the days and evenings with fun. Michael has worked so hard in the garden to get it into shape for planting. What a guy. In his spare time, he has taken to coaching the girls in his favorite sport....yes you guyed it, BASKETBALL. As you know, March madness just ended (thank goodness) I mean...oh shoot. So basketball is on everyone's minds...and the girls have really taken to playing with their daddy. I must say that Laney has pretty good form...she looks good passing the ball. Michael will have her pass him the ball while he makes the shot. And she is so cute, she always compliments him when he makes it..."Nice shot Dad" or cheers him on when he airballs it ,"OH Man!". Who wouldn't love the support?

Handsome isn't he? Look at the form...a natural I say!

Chloe is still working on her form. She loves the little skirts her aunts & Grandma

made her, and thinks it should be part of the basketball attire. She looks pretty darn cute...but I can't decide if she is a basketball player or a cheerleader...maybe she can be both!

She definitely enjoys passing more....point guard maybe?

We have also enjoyed a few walks. Michael keeps cursing the weather...he is praying for some warmth. For some reason he thinks that in April the girls shouldn't have to get all dressed up to go on a walk....did he forget where he was? Seriously though, this has been an unusally cold spring....a little warmth might be nice. Here are some shots of the girls enjoying their car.

These two are so funny in the car. They are like Thelma and Loise. They each have their duties. Chloe's duty is to man the radio...and she takes it seriously. No one touches it but her. And while Laney is driving she will put her feet up on the dash board, just chillin'. They will ride around the neighborhood just hooting and halloring! Their crazy. And Laney's job is to just drive. I don't know if she takes it quite so seriously. She is a wild one. Hopefully she gets better when in is time to get her license or she isn't getting one. Ask Grandma Ro how she drives......CRAZY! Poor Chloe sometimes has to hang on for dear life. But they have fun together.

I am so happy with how the girls play together. They really adore one another and get lonely when the other one isn't around. But they also get into lots of trouble together sometimes. It makes me laugh to see them interact...what a couple of hulligans! They get that from their father's side....lol jk. But I do know something Chloe did inherit from her uncle Jay....her amount of visits to the doctors! GEESH! They are beginning to know us by name there. And I have seen every doctor in that office at about any time of the day. Her latest is a sprained ankle. Her sister and her were jumping on a neighbor's trampoline and Laney jumped a little higher than she should have and Chloe landed on her ankle wrong. After a few x-rays and some exams, they decided it was just sprained and not fractured (whew)! So now she is wearing a splint and they advise that she stay off of it...yeah right! This kid was climbing anything climbable at the doctor's office while we waited...nothing phases her!

This is what we wear so we don't cause more damage...I didn't think they made them that small.

Then this morning, during one of her crazy ride episodes, Laney bumped her lip on her steering wheel and got a fat lip....MAN CAN WE GET A BREAK HERE!

She was such a sad girl! She didn't realize she could actually get hurt in her car!

So I have been in the crafty mood lately, much to Michael's dismay...but it is fun to be making things. I will have to post some things when I get a chance....but my sister has cashed in on the mood because she had to make a hand puppet. When she asked I thought she meant like a dog, cow, lamb...you know, easy ones like that. (she had to do a character in a book). But when she came over, she said she wanted to do "Fancy Nancy"....whom I think is adorable and we love her books, but I thought "Oh goodness" that might be stretching it. But it turned out really cute and we had a lot of fun making it. So thanks sis for letting me help you.

Here's our Fancy Nancy!

I think you can pretty much assume, life just isn't dull around here! We can spice up a life and have fun doing it!

March was definitely a Lion in this house!

2008-04-11T13:23:00.001-07:00

I have come to the conclusion that March doesn't really like our family...well, I guess it depends on how you look at it. This is my excuse for not blogging for so long. It has taken me a bit to catch up to what has happened. And now that March is over, I think it is safe to rehash its events.

Just to give you soem history, a year and a month ago, while doing some landscaping, I happen to smash my finger in between a really big, sharp rock and a skid loader. Not a pleasant experience but I still have a finger and it still works....so count our blessings there.

This March definitely came in with a roar! While going skiing with my sisters on a beautiful day, (although it had just finished snowing) enjoying a nice drive there, we encountered a road that hadn't been plowed yet. As I was carefully driving my way through the tracks already made, Eddie (our explorer) caught the edge of the slush and threw us in a tail spin acoss the road. As trying to recover, we tailspinned again on the slush over there and this throwing us to the other side of the road where we hit solid ground thus flipping us over the side of the road. Bri and I didn't feel too much since we were strapped in, but Whitney was not and was thrown halfway out the back window. Very scary. We are all fine and alive, except for Eddie unfortunately. We wanted to have her for much longer, but unfortunately she was unreparable. Sorry babe! We loved you.

Hoping that was all that March was going to throw at us, we began to recoup. We went car hunting on Monday and left the kids and Grandma's. When we picked the girls up, Chloe just began throwing up. She couldn't keep much of anything down. It progressed that way for the week until on Friday she became REALLY lethargic. So I packed her and her sister up and headed to the doctors. There, we found out that she was extremely dehydrated and needed to get some fluids in her with IV's. So Laney and I stayed to comfort Chloe while she slept and got some fluids while dad hurried home from work. Chloe really was a trooper, but it began to wear on her as with her sister. After 4 hours, they wanted to see if she could keep anything down so they let eat something and it came right back up with the fluid that we worked so hard to give her. So sad. So we began again...but this time there was no hope of going home. Chloe and I were going to spend the night. Poor little girl, with her carting around her IV pole whereever she went. She was so miserable not to be able to move. Then when they hooked her up to the heart monitor...GEESH. It got in the way of the belly button, and if you know Chloe and her relationship with her belly button you know how angry she gets. And I must say that Laney did and exceptional job also. She was a big help while we tended to Chloe. The hospital was so cute, they put together little kits for the siblings to play with to keep them busy. We made it through the night and were released the next morning. Unfortuanately Chloe and I missed all the easter egg hunt fun. And needless to say, our Easter weekend was a little different this year since Chloe was still having a tough time getting the fluids she needed. But another night and she was back to herself...drinking bottle of water after bottle! GEESH..you'd thinks she was stuck in a desert for a week :) But again, we have to count our blessings. The staff that looked after her was great and we are appreciative that we have our healthy little robust Chloe back!

Chloe before the IV.
Her little IV bandaged hand.

Her chillin' it, watching some movies.

This is her and Laney getting released. They got a ride out to the car in this cool wagon! She is looking much better by now. Although all is well with Chloe now....that was a really scary experience for me. I am sooooo glad I have two healthy children!

After that, we were all excited to have Grandma RO and Grandpa D come and visit that weekend. But that Tuesday, Delaney started a weird breathing thing, like she wasn't getting enough air. So the night that they drove in, we again headed for the doctor's office. We had a number of tests drawn and they couldn't really find anything unless we did more testing like an EKG, etc. So we decided to watch her and see if she continued doing it during the night. After watching her that night, we decided that it was possibly a nervous tick and that it would resolve itself within a month or so. If not.....let's just hope it does.

So that is our little story. I have barely gotten to the point where I can look at the pictures again and talk about it. I have decided that March and our family don't really get along. I hope that this doens't become a yearly thing. Hopefully next year we will fly under the radars! Another good thing is that Michael did find a car that he liked and is having a lot of fun with his truck! He is already planning ways to accessorize!! Gotta love the man. I will post some pics of the truck when I get them.

My sweet girls!

2008-03-09T15:34:00.000-07:00

I think every mother has moments when she thinks.....OY!! But let me tell you, this weekend has not been one of mine. My girls have been so GREAT! I wish I had more pictures to document what we did and what great sports they have been. We have been trying to make it a girls week with lots of fun and partying when we can. Yesterday we went to pick out their easter dresses. This is actually fun for Laney because she can try 0n a gazillion dresses and twirl in them. After all that, we actually decided on one. Very cute...I love them. Then the kids went and played on the playground in the mall. After all, they need a little play time don't you think? It is really a highlight for them when we go to the mall.

Don't you love spring colors!

Then we went to go and get material for Chloe's tutu. We made one for Laney on Friday, which I have been meaning to get a picture of and Laney decided Chloe needs to have one. And then we went to look at shoes, but were unsuccessful there....but the kids were good! We did all that in 2 hours which is really good for us. Then they took their naps and when they woke up...that's when the party began!

We went to the aquatics center and swam for 2 hours. Laney we so excited, she had her own bag packed, with her princess towell and everything! And the kids just swam and swam. Chloe had on arm floats and discovered that she can just float on her stomache. So where ever we went, she would just float on her tummy and kick. So cute. And Laney started working on her strokes. Oh...and Laney was so cute. They have a slide there that the kids can go on so she would hold Chloe's hand and help her up there so I could stay at the end to catch them. Chloe loved following sister. I really wish I would have gotten pictures of that. But that meant getting out of the pool in a swimsuit and chancing that my camera would get wet with all the splashing that was going on. Not going to happen.

So after that the kids just crashed. But Laney decided she was going to sleep behind my bed (it is backed into a corner so their is some space there) like a campout. She looked so peaceful down there. Then she came and slept with me somewhere in the night. But during the night, I must have caught a bug at the pool or something because I was SICK....UGHH!

And that is where we are today. SICK. I have to get better because Michael won't be home for another 3 days and the kids need their mom. But the cutest story...I was taking a bath trying to ease the sickness when Chloe decided she wanted in...then Laney. So we were all sitting in the bath playing when they decided they both wanted out. So Laney went and got a diaper for Chloe, dried her off, put lotion on her and then put her diaper on. She is getting so grown up! And she insisted we go to church today...so I got everyone ready sort of dreading it and even though I was sick, the girls were soooo good! What more could I ask for. They just sat in their seats. I don't think that has ever happened. They must know mommy misses daddy too and really needs to get better also!

So what is Michael up to? He is missing his girls and enjoying Hawaii. Here are some pics of his side of the island.

I am having issues with the pics, so i will post them when blogger decides to work with!

March is here!

2008-03-07T16:00:00.000-08:00

I tell you, it seems like the days just fly by. And I have to admit, I would blog more if I weren't so darn lazy! I'm going to have to get over that. Really it is just the resizing of the pics...but all is well, we have tons to show today.
So Michael is away for a week, which wouldn't be so bad except it includes a weekend...so it is from Tues-Wed and that is a very long time. We like having him around a little too much. But we are trying our best to have fun.
Our first event was Laney's first date...not really, but it was sure cute. Our neighbor, who I guess is going to be the boy Laney marries (her prince charming for now) came to pick her up in his cadillac (he rides in style) and they took a spin around the neighborhood having a blast. They are so cute when they play in their cars. They take turns driving each other and even make room for the Chloe-meister some times. So here are some pics from that.

here's the lucky boy.
Our second adventure was Laney's field trip to the Planetarium. They had a lot of fun there. Chloe LOVED the movie that we watched, Laney was a bit scared. It was so realistic that she actually thought we had left Earth and were exploring the universe. I have to admit, it was pretty realistic. I at times thought we were actually moving.
After the movie, we went to explore the museum. The kids had fun walking on Mars.

And the moon.

And seeing the space suit was pretty neat. They could look into telescopes at the moon and planets. It was a fun place to go. We also saw a big map where the kids all did a pose. Look at Chloe...she is so funny. She so thinks she is one of the big kids and they are pretty good at including her. So funny. And she is a climber!! She is going to check out the world.

After that we went to lunch with Michael. That was fun for the girls to go see him during the day. They always like to visit him.
Oh...and I promised pics of the girls and their basketball hoop but instead I got the one that uses it the most. We need to get him a real basketball hoop!
SO lately it has been a little too cold to go out and play but the kids are sick and tired of being cooped up. And it looks so decieving because it looks SO beautiful outside. So here are a few pics, they look out of focus because I was playing with my new camera and its features. Chloe and her glasses and gloves. That's all she needs.laney dancing in the morning.
Oh, and Chloe has decided that eating at the table is highly overrated. She has discovered a better way...whatever works.
Our days are pretty eventful as you can see. Between the Library days, Preschool, playdates...who has time to get bored :) But we miss our daddy and that is really why you all get the run down because we are updating Michael. By the way, last Tuesday I had a mishap with my hair. It got butchered. It was very traumatic in our house...but today, we got it fixed and life is good. I am no longer on suicide watch lol! J/k

So I am sending a picture to me hubby to let know...all is well and it looks GOOD! It is safe to come home again :) Love you babe!

Is Monday over YET?

2008-02-25T21:43:00.000-08:00

So mOndays are always so fun around our house! It is cleaning day. A smart person would seperate their duties and do them on different days...but not me! No...cleaning is not my favorite thing to do, but a necessary thing...so why not get it over with in one day right!! Well, the kids don't see the reason in it either! So that is when they get the most creative. Chloe decided to climb her Fisher-Price door toy and fall, thus getting a fat lip with a bit of a cut. Laney decided to throw game pieces around to hear the noise they make when they fall. Where was I you ask, bathrooms, but that only took about 5 minutes.

But their is some good to the day! Laney gets to go to her friends and play...so while we were taking Laney there, Chloe managed to get her finger slammed in the car door. Can I say that this was definitely a "mother of the year" day. By this time I am feeling like a failure of a mother. But Chloe made it all better by just wanting to cuddle....she doesn't do that much, but I love it when she does. She is alright. Her finger is back to normal and her lips look vulumptuous!! You just want to kiss them, if she will let you.

SO at the end of the day, the kids are alright, the house is cleaned and I am EXHAUSTED!! Laundry's not done yet, but that can always wait...because you know what tonight is?

PHOTO CLASS! Yes, I love this night. I can go and chat with others that share my enjoyment and we can critique each other...its great. And tonight, we went out and did night shots. NOw I was a bit weary because really, what is there to see at night right? WRONG! There is tons. It's amazing what comes to life at night. There are so many things you can do...which I didn't even touch the surface, but to my defense....it was REALLY cold outside. Maybe on a nice SUMMER day I'll try to experiment. So here are a few of the ones I liked. Granted, they are untouched because I didn't have time to touch them up...but I like them.

I would have liked this one better if the car was out of the way and it wasn't soooo blurry. (Michael, I need a remote for my camera :)

Isn't this cool!It may be hard to see but I like it because it looks like there is just this head there...fun!

I love the sky in this one...Very picturesque!

Just fun.

This believe it or not was a fire truck! How cool is that? I like. I have never been so excited for an emergency! I know I should feel bad, but I got to get this great shot!

I can't even remember what this was, but I like the lights!

These two put a whole new spin on window shopping. These were in the window! I love them!

And this one looks like it was taken in the daylight. How cool is that. But I wish that it was dark so you can really see the blue windows....that was what I was aiming for.

I think this is my favorite. I love the sky and the building. It just looks cool.Just a sign....need to get rid of the glare.

So that is it. Nothing special...but it was fun! That's all that matters right!

2008-02-23T15:03:00.000-08:00

Michael and I have decided that we need to take time for each other, so we try to go out at least twice a month. We aren't always successful, but it's the effort that counts right? And we have just discovered babysitting. We were a little hesitant until we found one that we really, and I emphasize, REALLY like. So hopefully she doesn't get tired of us. But it is not often that you can find someone to feed your kids, change them, and have them in bed by the time you get home. She is fabulouse! So, Michael choose to take us to the Jazz game last week for our outing.

I have to say that I am not a big fan of basketball. It looks like a fun sport to play, but I have a hard time supporting grown men, getting paid to do what they love and then complaining that they only make 2 million dollars a year....so sad. But Michael enjoys it so I put my best face forward and we had fun. Mostly because we were together, and I like half time shows too. But I was thinking how much fun the girls would have had there. They would have had a blast....next time is their turn. Here are a few pics from our night. I kept looking for the Bear for Laney, but he wouldn't get close enough to us. Sorry babe. But I did get a close up of a hottie...let me show you!

Not here.....Nope....not this one either!

Oh....how cute! Oh...here it is.

Yes... I know...he is a cutie...but he is taken girls...sorry!

Flying High

2008-02-23T14:53:00.000-08:00

Today we took the girls to LIFETIME warehouse to get me a craft table...but somehow we end up walking out of there with a basketball hoop and almost an airplane. Yes...an airplane. They had a ball on it. Grandma Ro better not look....she might want one for her backyard. Man the kids would have a blast!! Here's a look at them.

Our next assignment for photo class is table top photography. Again...not my favorite but it may come in handy. So I took a few just to fool around. I don't like any of them but the piano one, but the good thing is I am learning tons on Photoshop! I love that program. I don't think there is anything you can't do!

I will have to take some pics of the girls with their basketball hoop. I don't know who is more excited, kids or dad! It's a little small for him, but he makes it work. Stay tuned.....

Here's to my first blog!

2008-02-21T14:50:00.002-08:00

So I am having technical difficulties! This is the third time I have typed this...but third time is the charm right!

So here is to my very first blog! I didn't think I would ever get one because they seem like too much hassle (which this experience is not helping it's cause :) But I figure, I need a place I can just say what I think and post some of my pictures that I love to take...so here we are! Plus I really need to journal. I look at my two little girls and think...where did the time go? And I have my memories, but I would like them to here what I thought during their younger years...so here's to you girls!

As you can see, I love to take pictures! I love to catch life while it is happening. I love to show what we are doing in my pictures. I love for you to see a glimpse into our lives through pictures. So this months photo class has been a little hard for me because we have gotten assignments to do landscapes and official poses. Granted, I need to get creative and get outside of my box, but my one problem is that it is very snowy and not so pretty because it is in the melting stage and really rather cold outside. Now if it was in the fall or in the spring...let me at it, but as for now...I have to look really hard. And now I have to do table top photos! GEESH that is really stretching it, but I may like it. Above are some of my attempts, don't laugh. But I will keep trying. i have two more weeks before I have to show them to people.

Lately we have not been up to much but I realize that my kids are getting so much personality and I wonder, where did that come from. Chloe is just a loud, voicestrous, vivacious character that dances and sings and says her prayers. She just makes you laugh really. And Laney is just getting so grown up! She is so independant now and has so much to say. She is now learning how to express herself instead of throwing fits, but now I have to deal with how she expresses them! All new phases but all new adventures. All I can say is I love em! I love em, I love em!! Their my life.