5 years ago
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Thanksgiving #3
I am so incredibly thankful for modern transportation and that fact that I have the knowledge to be a part of it. I had so many errands and running around today I can't imagine if I didn't own or know how to operate a vehicle. At the end of the day, I am so glad that I have the access and knowledge to be a part of such an incredible "invention" - if you will.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Thanksgiving #2
I am thankful for running water and the instant heat that comes with it.
For those times the two year old seems to think it's funny to piddle in her pants...for the times the baby throws up all her dinner 10 minutes later cause she stuffed herself...for all those times and more I am so grateful that I do not have to wait a week to warm up a basin for all to enjoy the same basin...oh how thankful!
For those times the two year old seems to think it's funny to piddle in her pants...for the times the baby throws up all her dinner 10 minutes later cause she stuffed herself...for all those times and more I am so grateful that I do not have to wait a week to warm up a basin for all to enjoy the same basin...oh how thankful!
Monday, November 1, 2010
What is this??
(said with the accent and curiosity of the chef on Little Mermaid)
Family Pictures 2010
These turned out sooooo stinkin' cute! I am having a hard time deciding which ones to actually print; here's a preview:
MY FAVORITE!!
MY {next} FAVORITE!
Family Pictures 2010
These turned out sooooo stinkin' cute! I am having a hard time deciding which ones to actually print; here's a preview:
MY FAVORITE!!
MY {next} FAVORITE!
Thanksgiving #1
I posted this on Facebook and decided that it would be just as memorable to do this on the blog...
Day 1:
I am thankful for a home to call my own. It has been almost a year (the Saturday after Thanksgiving is the anniversary) that we've been here. It's surreal. We've NEVER stayed in a place this long and it's sitting pretty with me. I can't wait to have double digit years in one place!! I think we're going to have a party every year for being here-we deserve it, I think...especially the kids-they have learned so much about change and adaptation...
Day 1:
I am thankful for a home to call my own. It has been almost a year (the Saturday after Thanksgiving is the anniversary) that we've been here. It's surreal. We've NEVER stayed in a place this long and it's sitting pretty with me. I can't wait to have double digit years in one place!! I think we're going to have a party every year for being here-we deserve it, I think...especially the kids-they have learned so much about change and adaptation...
Monday, September 13, 2010
New season...
School has started and a routine has begun. I love routine, I love schedules, and plans and lists and the feeling of back to school; sorta like the feeling of the new year, where we set goals for our education, reflect on life and how to improve the "year". I love fall; the changing colors, the smells of crisp air, apples baking, pumpkins, etc. I love getting organized and feeling in control. I just love this time of year!!
Bryant started 2nd grade and has a lot of friends from last year in his class and he is just loving it! He brings home a book a night, his teacher stated that would be his routine homework each night and anything else he might not finish during class. He has met some new kids in the neighborhood that he is enjoying playing with. They are into legos just as much as he is. I do need to get him in a sport (we missed football, it was totally my fault), so we'll see if wrestling is the thing again this year.
Kayelynn started kindergarten and has done rather well so far. She is our shy little one so she wanted to be walked to the door of her classroom the first day. She asked if I could ride the bus with her after school because she thought there would be no one she knows (there are two girls in the neighborhood in her class, silly girl). She is making friends relatively fast for a shy one, I'm impressed. It's so nerve wracking to see them struggle socially, but she is doing much better than anticipated.
Sarah started preschool (a different one than last year) and LOVES it! There are many friends from church in her class and she is just miss chatterbox and social butterfly that there is really no fear in her socially. The only disadvantage is that its only 3 days a week, she would do so well at a daily preschool (there just isn't anything like that here.)
Lydia is POTTY TRAINED!!! My life has changed so much, one child in diapers?!!! It's awesome! She is so proud of herself and I am just in awe that my mother in law could get her trained so well and so fast just before school started. She likes the idea of being home with just Emily and mom, but constantly asks where the bigger kids are when school is in session.
Emily has two teeth, is crawling around. She is trying to stand solo and "walk". You know, I"m actually okay with the thought of her walking at an early age (whether or not she does will prove itself soon enough)...she will be able to follow me and be by me still, but I assume she will realize that it will be more fun to play with the bigger kids instead of crying on my pant leg during those times that I need both hands. She is slowly getting happier for longer periods of time, we still stuggle with getting the house cleaned more than once a week and the laundry folded after its been washed, but I can make dinner now and have something better than a 2 minute sanwich created in such a rush that the peanut butter is spillin out. She still struggles with daytime naps, but I'm almost convinced that it could just be a personality thing...again, this early walking idea has it's perks.
Jake started another semester for prerequisites and describes it as "stressful". He works full time, school part time, daddy/husband full time, and tries his hardest to keep up on the honey-do list to make my days that much better. He is in a time of major sacrifice and we are grateful for his willingness.
I have volunteered to help on the PTO for the year (I know, I can't even keep a clean house, why would I do this...I. have. no. idea.) I am helping with the games for our fall carnival (we don't have a Halloween one) so if you know of any great games send the ideas my way! I have started baking again and am loving every minute, I could seriously spend all day in the kitchen creating new treats and dinners and such...or down in my craft room scrapbooking, card making, organizing, and learning how to sew.
Life is good. There is a roof over our head. We are all learning and growing. We have many friends. We have dreams that are coming to pass and we have a family unit that is growing closer and closer each day. What a great thing to know that our family is going to be together forever!!
Bryant started 2nd grade and has a lot of friends from last year in his class and he is just loving it! He brings home a book a night, his teacher stated that would be his routine homework each night and anything else he might not finish during class. He has met some new kids in the neighborhood that he is enjoying playing with. They are into legos just as much as he is. I do need to get him in a sport (we missed football, it was totally my fault), so we'll see if wrestling is the thing again this year.
Kayelynn started kindergarten and has done rather well so far. She is our shy little one so she wanted to be walked to the door of her classroom the first day. She asked if I could ride the bus with her after school because she thought there would be no one she knows (there are two girls in the neighborhood in her class, silly girl). She is making friends relatively fast for a shy one, I'm impressed. It's so nerve wracking to see them struggle socially, but she is doing much better than anticipated.
Sarah started preschool (a different one than last year) and LOVES it! There are many friends from church in her class and she is just miss chatterbox and social butterfly that there is really no fear in her socially. The only disadvantage is that its only 3 days a week, she would do so well at a daily preschool (there just isn't anything like that here.)
Lydia is POTTY TRAINED!!! My life has changed so much, one child in diapers?!!! It's awesome! She is so proud of herself and I am just in awe that my mother in law could get her trained so well and so fast just before school started. She likes the idea of being home with just Emily and mom, but constantly asks where the bigger kids are when school is in session.
Emily has two teeth, is crawling around. She is trying to stand solo and "walk". You know, I"m actually okay with the thought of her walking at an early age (whether or not she does will prove itself soon enough)...she will be able to follow me and be by me still, but I assume she will realize that it will be more fun to play with the bigger kids instead of crying on my pant leg during those times that I need both hands. She is slowly getting happier for longer periods of time, we still stuggle with getting the house cleaned more than once a week and the laundry folded after its been washed, but I can make dinner now and have something better than a 2 minute sanwich created in such a rush that the peanut butter is spillin out. She still struggles with daytime naps, but I'm almost convinced that it could just be a personality thing...again, this early walking idea has it's perks.
Jake started another semester for prerequisites and describes it as "stressful". He works full time, school part time, daddy/husband full time, and tries his hardest to keep up on the honey-do list to make my days that much better. He is in a time of major sacrifice and we are grateful for his willingness.
I have volunteered to help on the PTO for the year (I know, I can't even keep a clean house, why would I do this...I. have. no. idea.) I am helping with the games for our fall carnival (we don't have a Halloween one) so if you know of any great games send the ideas my way! I have started baking again and am loving every minute, I could seriously spend all day in the kitchen creating new treats and dinners and such...or down in my craft room scrapbooking, card making, organizing, and learning how to sew.
Life is good. There is a roof over our head. We are all learning and growing. We have many friends. We have dreams that are coming to pass and we have a family unit that is growing closer and closer each day. What a great thing to know that our family is going to be together forever!!
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Twenty-Nine
I have finally reached that repeated magic number in life (last Sunday, the 25th). The one number that keeps you "young" in the eyes of others. And what do I have to show for my years?
1. I have a solid marriage to a man I adore and consider my very best friend
2. I have FIVE adorable children
3. I have a home to call my very own, not without any challenges mind you
Here are some fun facts about moi, that you may or may not already know
1. I have a college degree in health and physical education
2. I enjoy reading so much so, it takes me to a whole new world, until that book is finished...yes, that means that I ignore all household chores and to-do's and accomplish the most minimal tasks to keep the house functioning just so I can finish the story :D
3. I LOVE to paper-craft; scrapbooks, card making, etc.
4. I collect recipes-lots and lots of recipes!
5. I have taught myself how to play the piano; I have minimal formal training, but somehow I still held the calling of ward pianist in college one summer...I had never let anyone know, so...my dream is to own a baby grand.
6. Baking is a passion and therefore weight is an issue...LOL!
7. Cooking is a necessary desire for me, but I'm learning more and more to enjoy it and create some yummy things!
8. I love my new hobby of couponing!
9. I have organizational OCD...everything must have a place and be there!
10. I took calligraphy classes one summer in my teen years and have loved practicing since then, I would love to take classes again.
Life is great. It's amazing how much I have learned and grown this past year and in my lifetime. I know that this will be a great year!
I would love to hear your memories of how we met and/or a favorite memory you have, no matter how embarassing it could be. Thank you all for your friendships!
1. I have a solid marriage to a man I adore and consider my very best friend
2. I have FIVE adorable children
3. I have a home to call my very own, not without any challenges mind you
Here are some fun facts about moi, that you may or may not already know
1. I have a college degree in health and physical education
2. I enjoy reading so much so, it takes me to a whole new world, until that book is finished...yes, that means that I ignore all household chores and to-do's and accomplish the most minimal tasks to keep the house functioning just so I can finish the story :D
3. I LOVE to paper-craft; scrapbooks, card making, etc.
4. I collect recipes-lots and lots of recipes!
5. I have taught myself how to play the piano; I have minimal formal training, but somehow I still held the calling of ward pianist in college one summer...I had never let anyone know, so...my dream is to own a baby grand.
6. Baking is a passion and therefore weight is an issue...LOL!
7. Cooking is a necessary desire for me, but I'm learning more and more to enjoy it and create some yummy things!
8. I love my new hobby of couponing!
9. I have organizational OCD...everything must have a place and be there!
10. I took calligraphy classes one summer in my teen years and have loved practicing since then, I would love to take classes again.
Life is great. It's amazing how much I have learned and grown this past year and in my lifetime. I know that this will be a great year!
I would love to hear your memories of how we met and/or a favorite memory you have, no matter how embarassing it could be. Thank you all for your friendships!
Friday, July 16, 2010
Birthday girl
Miss Lydia turned TWO today!!
She spent the day shopping with her grandma, and would you believe it the little diva decided that she would look at clothing, shoes, and jewlery...she was so NOT interested in the toys!
She got a new pair of flip-flops (you just have to hear how she says that, too cute). A dress, two outfits, bracelets, and a tinkerbell camera-all from grandma and grandpa! We weren't as much on the spoiling side of things; sidewalk chalk and another outfit.
She is just growing right up! In fact, she went potty THREE times today, in the toilet!! She is so incredibly ready to potty train it's ridiculous. I am so not ready, but when they are I have to be-there will be no more year long trainings here! I just might loan her out to grandma for a week though-seems a little easier :D She was thrilled to accomplish such a task on this grand day! The grin on her face said it all, she was happier than any two-year old could possibly be. I hope I can get the pictures I took downloaded to share, it's just pure happiness on her face.
Happy Birthday Miss L! 2 going on 16 and loving every minute.
She spent the day shopping with her grandma, and would you believe it the little diva decided that she would look at clothing, shoes, and jewlery...she was so NOT interested in the toys!
She got a new pair of flip-flops (you just have to hear how she says that, too cute). A dress, two outfits, bracelets, and a tinkerbell camera-all from grandma and grandpa! We weren't as much on the spoiling side of things; sidewalk chalk and another outfit.
She is just growing right up! In fact, she went potty THREE times today, in the toilet!! She is so incredibly ready to potty train it's ridiculous. I am so not ready, but when they are I have to be-there will be no more year long trainings here! I just might loan her out to grandma for a week though-seems a little easier :D She was thrilled to accomplish such a task on this grand day! The grin on her face said it all, she was happier than any two-year old could possibly be. I hope I can get the pictures I took downloaded to share, it's just pure happiness on her face.
Happy Birthday Miss L! 2 going on 16 and loving every minute.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Sharing
I have a hard time updating this blog when I lack the ability to share all the fun we have with pictures. There have been many moments lately that I've documented on my camera, but can't retrieve them and it saddens me. I don't have the gift of tongues associated to writing or painting a picture with words. I am long winded and lack the vocabulary to entice readers, for that I have really struggled with keeping this updated. But I have to make the decision, keep the blog going in whatever fashion I can or erase it. I am choosing to keep it, but there won't be many "fun" or rather picture posts for quite some time.
But that's not the point of this post, please read to the end, there is an awesome giveaway link. As you know (from yesterdays post) I have started a new hobby of couponing and I can't stop! It's such a great "skill". At first I was afraid to admit it, thinking that it would come across that because we are poor I have to start clipping coupons, which is true, but I didn't want pity. However, after about a month of clipping I realized that it's FUN and exhilarating, I just want to SHOUT FROM THE ROOFTOPS!!! In fact, I read a statisitic of sorts that those that coupon don't "need" to-mostly those that make in the upper middle class and those that "need" to-mostly those in the lower middle class to poor don't, in some sort of percentages. So I felt that because I truly need it, that I would DO it and I am so extremely grateful I stuck to it!! I won't lie, it was really overwhelming in the beginning and it takes a good effort the first month or two to get into the niche and know the stores.
Yesterday I went to do my coupon shopping and bought $126.01 worth of products at Albertson's. But I only paid 21.51 OOP (out of pocket) PLUS I received $10 in catalinas (those are coupons that print out at the register, which I consider "cash") to use at a different time, so essentially I only paid $11.51 for $126.01 worth of products (in 7 different transactions)! Isn't that exciting?!?!!! Tell me that doesn't intrigue you...what a great way to stock my storage room! For example, 8 boxes og Kellogg's cereal or pop tarts (mix and match) end up being $.63 a box with coupons and doublers I had!!! And, for the non coupon transaction, I bought 3 trial size herbal essence conditioner (they were out of shampoo) for $3.87 and got a $5 catalina...moneymaker!!!
I subscribe to the Post Register and get 5 sunday papers and one daily paper. I also print coupons from legitimate sites such as coupons.com and redplum.com. I follow a few coupon specific sites (no money required) that do a LOT of the homework for me, so I don't have to wonder when, where, and how to use my coupons. There are a lot of coupons that don't get used, but I'm okay with that because the ones that I did use more than paid for the months worth of paper!! I follow: athriftymom.com; thekrazycouponlady.com; and fabulesslyfrugal.com these are all based out of Boise, but they have connections to this side of the state in one way or another and most of the coupons they get, we get.
In fact right now, fabulesslyfrugal.com is having a SUPER giveaway for FORTY POUNDS of fresh chicken!! Go to their site and read all the details and then enter yourself to win (make sure you put my name and number -881.2444-as your referral)!! What would you do with all that chicken?? I have to share this, it's just too fantatic not to!!!
But that's not the point of this post, please read to the end, there is an awesome giveaway link. As you know (from yesterdays post) I have started a new hobby of couponing and I can't stop! It's such a great "skill". At first I was afraid to admit it, thinking that it would come across that because we are poor I have to start clipping coupons, which is true, but I didn't want pity. However, after about a month of clipping I realized that it's FUN and exhilarating, I just want to SHOUT FROM THE ROOFTOPS!!! In fact, I read a statisitic of sorts that those that coupon don't "need" to-mostly those that make in the upper middle class and those that "need" to-mostly those in the lower middle class to poor don't, in some sort of percentages. So I felt that because I truly need it, that I would DO it and I am so extremely grateful I stuck to it!! I won't lie, it was really overwhelming in the beginning and it takes a good effort the first month or two to get into the niche and know the stores.
Yesterday I went to do my coupon shopping and bought $126.01 worth of products at Albertson's. But I only paid 21.51 OOP (out of pocket) PLUS I received $10 in catalinas (those are coupons that print out at the register, which I consider "cash") to use at a different time, so essentially I only paid $11.51 for $126.01 worth of products (in 7 different transactions)! Isn't that exciting?!?!!! Tell me that doesn't intrigue you...what a great way to stock my storage room! For example, 8 boxes og Kellogg's cereal or pop tarts (mix and match) end up being $.63 a box with coupons and doublers I had!!! And, for the non coupon transaction, I bought 3 trial size herbal essence conditioner (they were out of shampoo) for $3.87 and got a $5 catalina...moneymaker!!!
I subscribe to the Post Register and get 5 sunday papers and one daily paper. I also print coupons from legitimate sites such as coupons.com and redplum.com. I follow a few coupon specific sites (no money required) that do a LOT of the homework for me, so I don't have to wonder when, where, and how to use my coupons. There are a lot of coupons that don't get used, but I'm okay with that because the ones that I did use more than paid for the months worth of paper!! I follow: athriftymom.com; thekrazycouponlady.com; and fabulesslyfrugal.com these are all based out of Boise, but they have connections to this side of the state in one way or another and most of the coupons they get, we get.
In fact right now, fabulesslyfrugal.com is having a SUPER giveaway for FORTY POUNDS of fresh chicken!! Go to their site and read all the details and then enter yourself to win (make sure you put my name and number -881.2444-as your referral)!! What would you do with all that chicken?? I have to share this, it's just too fantatic not to!!!
Monday, July 12, 2010
We LIVE!!
I didn't think anyone really read this anymore, but I've been asked a few times to update. once agin, no pictures, but since my sister is in China I will just update with what I sent her.
Bryant is really slimming down-he's proud of himself. He's having a great time making friends in the neighborhood, but he still struggles with being the in charge dude of ALL situations. He's quite smart and is just loving learning how to help out more at the house and in the kitchen especially. He's a great helper with Lydia and Emily-he loves to feel like he has a little bit of control with them-it's funny.
Kayelynn looks like she's about 6, her hair is getting long (past her shoulders) and blonde and she is just getting more and more cute and serious, she's currently going through a shy phase again. She can get Emily to laugh so quickly and she loves it. She is an awesome helper, always jumping on everything I say before anyone even processes what was just said.
Sarah is getting tall, about 3 inches shorter than Kayelynn and looks like she's about 5 although I get asked all the time if they are twins. Her hair is growing , it's past her shoulders too, but her hair is very dark, with some natural sun streaked highlights. She talks all the time and is just super funny and cute and lives on her own planet most of the time, but is very aware of what's going on and being said around her-she will randomly answer something that was said even if it wasn't directed at her-it's so funny. She's still the peacemaker of the family and it's great, she gets along with everyone!
Lydia will be two on Friday!! She is a P.I.L.L. but incredibly funny! Her hair is long (mid back) and super blonde from the sun bleaching it. She is a chatterbox as well and has an incredible vocabulary for her age! She blows the socks off people with what she can say and comprehend. She is also our little dennis the menace (the girl version)-she can charm her way out of every predicament she gets into and that's A LOT- needless to say she's mastered the charming to a T! In fact, she will automatically charm a stranger before any interaction with just her little smile and wrinkled nose-it's so cute!
Emily is 5 months old and looks about 8-she's so long! she's still got the little baby look and is quite small looking compared to how the others "chunked" out about this age...it's interesting how different they all can be and yet so alike. she LOVES her mom...she's finally starting to let me put her down for more than 5 minutes-as long as someone is in the room with her, except Lydia. She is incredible afraid of that sister. Lydia loves her too much and tries too hard to "help". In one word, Emily is adorable. She has two dimples that just light up her face when she smiles. She has the chubby cheeks all the kids have had but you can still see those dimples through it all. She is trying to sit independently, she is trying to cut teeth (they are taking FOREVER), she doesn't like tummy time unless there is something in front of her to keep her interested-therefore, she is almost crawling, she can do the little army crawl. She's especially mobile on her back-it's crazy she lifts her back and pushes with her feet and voila! she's there.
I don't get anything done in the day because Emily isn't a good sleeper during the day and I have to hold her most of the time. We've pulled out the little chair that hangs on the counter top and she's okay there with a graham cracker. I've almost gotten to where I can get the dishes unloaded and loaded in the dishwasher in 5 minutes...that's her limit and after two little wedges of graham cracker that's all she is interested in. She's really good at going to bed at 10pm and then I take time to get things done I want, like paper crafts and end up staying up way too late, but it feels so good to accomplish something I have created. I'm in a card club, so I force myself to get some extra crafting done once I get my cards made (I have to make 9), afterall, Jake bought me a Cricut Expression for Mother's Day and I need to use it. Occasionally I have to call a friend over to help me for the day so I can sweep, mop, fold laundry, etc. But we're getting a little better everyday. By the time she's walking she'll want to play with the kids more and it will be better. I have started a new hobby of couponing and I LOVE it-we save so much money and I have gotten more in our year-storage than I ever have or thought possible in the last 5 months!! It's a thrill I enjoy...shopping. saving. food storage. all in one!
Jake took the summer off from school and we've had someone come do the electrical downstairs. Jake finished the shelves in the storage room this weekend and it's looks GREAT! I am so excited. We can't finish anymore of the basement this year (unless we miraculously stumble across a money tree), but we will slowly keep things progressing-luckily Jake can do pretty much all of it by himself!
We've enjoyed a few family trips this summer and plan to have family on town a few times as well as one more trip before school starts! It's been a great summer so far. Our garden is growing, albeit slowly and it hasn't been too hot yet. It's great!
Bryant is really slimming down-he's proud of himself. He's having a great time making friends in the neighborhood, but he still struggles with being the in charge dude of ALL situations. He's quite smart and is just loving learning how to help out more at the house and in the kitchen especially. He's a great helper with Lydia and Emily-he loves to feel like he has a little bit of control with them-it's funny.
Kayelynn looks like she's about 6, her hair is getting long (past her shoulders) and blonde and she is just getting more and more cute and serious, she's currently going through a shy phase again. She can get Emily to laugh so quickly and she loves it. She is an awesome helper, always jumping on everything I say before anyone even processes what was just said.
Sarah is getting tall, about 3 inches shorter than Kayelynn and looks like she's about 5 although I get asked all the time if they are twins. Her hair is growing , it's past her shoulders too, but her hair is very dark, with some natural sun streaked highlights. She talks all the time and is just super funny and cute and lives on her own planet most of the time, but is very aware of what's going on and being said around her-she will randomly answer something that was said even if it wasn't directed at her-it's so funny. She's still the peacemaker of the family and it's great, she gets along with everyone!
Lydia will be two on Friday!! She is a P.I.L.L. but incredibly funny! Her hair is long (mid back) and super blonde from the sun bleaching it. She is a chatterbox as well and has an incredible vocabulary for her age! She blows the socks off people with what she can say and comprehend. She is also our little dennis the menace (the girl version)-she can charm her way out of every predicament she gets into and that's A LOT- needless to say she's mastered the charming to a T! In fact, she will automatically charm a stranger before any interaction with just her little smile and wrinkled nose-it's so cute!
Emily is 5 months old and looks about 8-she's so long! she's still got the little baby look and is quite small looking compared to how the others "chunked" out about this age...it's interesting how different they all can be and yet so alike. she LOVES her mom...she's finally starting to let me put her down for more than 5 minutes-as long as someone is in the room with her, except Lydia. She is incredible afraid of that sister. Lydia loves her too much and tries too hard to "help". In one word, Emily is adorable. She has two dimples that just light up her face when she smiles. She has the chubby cheeks all the kids have had but you can still see those dimples through it all. She is trying to sit independently, she is trying to cut teeth (they are taking FOREVER), she doesn't like tummy time unless there is something in front of her to keep her interested-therefore, she is almost crawling, she can do the little army crawl. She's especially mobile on her back-it's crazy she lifts her back and pushes with her feet and voila! she's there.
I don't get anything done in the day because Emily isn't a good sleeper during the day and I have to hold her most of the time. We've pulled out the little chair that hangs on the counter top and she's okay there with a graham cracker. I've almost gotten to where I can get the dishes unloaded and loaded in the dishwasher in 5 minutes...that's her limit and after two little wedges of graham cracker that's all she is interested in. She's really good at going to bed at 10pm and then I take time to get things done I want, like paper crafts and end up staying up way too late, but it feels so good to accomplish something I have created. I'm in a card club, so I force myself to get some extra crafting done once I get my cards made (I have to make 9), afterall, Jake bought me a Cricut Expression for Mother's Day and I need to use it. Occasionally I have to call a friend over to help me for the day so I can sweep, mop, fold laundry, etc. But we're getting a little better everyday. By the time she's walking she'll want to play with the kids more and it will be better. I have started a new hobby of couponing and I LOVE it-we save so much money and I have gotten more in our year-storage than I ever have or thought possible in the last 5 months!! It's a thrill I enjoy...shopping. saving. food storage. all in one!
Jake took the summer off from school and we've had someone come do the electrical downstairs. Jake finished the shelves in the storage room this weekend and it's looks GREAT! I am so excited. We can't finish anymore of the basement this year (unless we miraculously stumble across a money tree), but we will slowly keep things progressing-luckily Jake can do pretty much all of it by himself!
We've enjoyed a few family trips this summer and plan to have family on town a few times as well as one more trip before school starts! It's been a great summer so far. Our garden is growing, albeit slowly and it hasn't been too hot yet. It's great!
Monday, May 24, 2010
Thirty...something
Happy Birthday JAKE!!!
All he wanted for his birthday was a day to do all he needed by himself!! He got a new windshield on the van, got the snow tires off (even though he used them today-ha!), and spent the rest of the day out at the shop doing all he wanted!
He enjoyed a lunch out with his great-grandmother and came home grinning from ear to ear with that look of accomplishment we all get when we've been able to cross more than one thing off that never-ending to-do list!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the best husband and father! We love you JAKE aka Shrek!!
All he wanted for his birthday was a day to do all he needed by himself!! He got a new windshield on the van, got the snow tires off (even though he used them today-ha!), and spent the rest of the day out at the shop doing all he wanted!
He enjoyed a lunch out with his great-grandmother and came home grinning from ear to ear with that look of accomplishment we all get when we've been able to cross more than one thing off that never-ending to-do list!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the best husband and father! We love you JAKE aka Shrek!!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Bug Play
children can say and do very funny things...
they can also embarass their parents without even knowing it.
1pm-arrive at school for 1st grade play, which only lasts 1/2 hour
find no seating available for 3 princesses and a mommy holding a baby princess
princess #3 immediately starts shouting that she can see her brother on stage, who happens to be a potato bug, on the front row!
first song-he pelts it out like nothing else
second song-his lips barely move
3rd song he sings and somehow notices his fly is down...he tries to sing and zip at the same time...luckily at this age, all the parents are still really into their own children and don't notice this terribly funny, yet embarassing act.
meanwhile, princess #3-appropriately nicknamed dennis the menace, starts to take all wipes out of the diaperbag and scatter them all over the gym floor and then screams at the top of her lungs when momma tells her she should be done.
during the final song this same princess, starts to dance to the music, makes up her own words and dances with hip shakes and the whole body just a waving to the music, luckily she's not on stage...
after the final song there are dramatic bows made by the one and only potato bug in the play-hilarious!
I wish I could have shared these moments with someone other than my camera...oh wait! at the time I was wishing that Jake could have gotten off work for an hour to come help me, but looking back, it was quite the event that needed more cameras involved-these kids crack. me. up.
By the way, thank you to everyone that shared feedback and comments to my mommy question. I have been able to make better use of my time-she is going longer between feedings (sorta), I can sorta cook dinner nightly, and even get the kids bathed without screaming (from E-thought I'd better clarify that), there just might be a new normal emerging-it has been three months since she entered this world, you know..
they can also embarass their parents without even knowing it.
1pm-arrive at school for 1st grade play, which only lasts 1/2 hour
find no seating available for 3 princesses and a mommy holding a baby princess
princess #3 immediately starts shouting that she can see her brother on stage, who happens to be a potato bug, on the front row!
first song-he pelts it out like nothing else
second song-his lips barely move
3rd song he sings and somehow notices his fly is down...he tries to sing and zip at the same time...luckily at this age, all the parents are still really into their own children and don't notice this terribly funny, yet embarassing act.
meanwhile, princess #3-appropriately nicknamed dennis the menace, starts to take all wipes out of the diaperbag and scatter them all over the gym floor and then screams at the top of her lungs when momma tells her she should be done.
during the final song this same princess, starts to dance to the music, makes up her own words and dances with hip shakes and the whole body just a waving to the music, luckily she's not on stage...
after the final song there are dramatic bows made by the one and only potato bug in the play-hilarious!
I wish I could have shared these moments with someone other than my camera...oh wait! at the time I was wishing that Jake could have gotten off work for an hour to come help me, but looking back, it was quite the event that needed more cameras involved-these kids crack. me. up.
By the way, thank you to everyone that shared feedback and comments to my mommy question. I have been able to make better use of my time-she is going longer between feedings (sorta), I can sorta cook dinner nightly, and even get the kids bathed without screaming (from E-thought I'd better clarify that), there just might be a new normal emerging-it has been three months since she entered this world, you know..
Saturday, April 24, 2010
mommy question.
I'm going to get straight to the point.
I have never been a good nursing mother. There, I said it...not sure if it feels good to admit that or not...
At first (with Bryant) it killed me that I couldn't nurse him, I would even steal away to the mother's lounge and pretend...I hated feeling like everyone was looking down on me for "choosing" to bottle feed my child and therefore, ruin his growth and development. Every child since has lasted longer than him, but still not as long as I've ever wanted to nurse.
With Emily I feel like I want to enjoy this as long as possible. With her, it was the longest first 6-weeks (in a different way than it was with Bryant) because she ate all.the.time! (and still does) and it hurt like nothing else, she just didn't know how to latch properly. We finally made it past that, but ever since she's started sleeping 8-hour nights, which has about a month, I have noticed that she has been eating a LOT more often during the day. I am totally okay with that since I have an eat-on-demand philosophy, but after eating every 2 hours, by 4pm she is HUNGRY!! and I just can't seem to get my milk to stay up with the demand...even though I thought it was a supply and demand sort of issue.
So here's the question, does anyone have any tried and true methods for increasing milk supply and keeping a full child? She's almost 3 months old and she still eats as often as a newborn and for just as long. sheesh. Again, I'm not so good at this, so I don't really know or remember what's normal.
Any suggestions, theories, etc are welcome.
I have never been a good nursing mother. There, I said it...not sure if it feels good to admit that or not...
At first (with Bryant) it killed me that I couldn't nurse him, I would even steal away to the mother's lounge and pretend...I hated feeling like everyone was looking down on me for "choosing" to bottle feed my child and therefore, ruin his growth and development. Every child since has lasted longer than him, but still not as long as I've ever wanted to nurse.
With Emily I feel like I want to enjoy this as long as possible. With her, it was the longest first 6-weeks (in a different way than it was with Bryant) because she ate all.the.time! (and still does) and it hurt like nothing else, she just didn't know how to latch properly. We finally made it past that, but ever since she's started sleeping 8-hour nights, which has about a month, I have noticed that she has been eating a LOT more often during the day. I am totally okay with that since I have an eat-on-demand philosophy, but after eating every 2 hours, by 4pm she is HUNGRY!! and I just can't seem to get my milk to stay up with the demand...even though I thought it was a supply and demand sort of issue.
So here's the question, does anyone have any tried and true methods for increasing milk supply and keeping a full child? She's almost 3 months old and she still eats as often as a newborn and for just as long. sheesh. Again, I'm not so good at this, so I don't really know or remember what's normal.
Any suggestions, theories, etc are welcome.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
life goes on...
I started this post two days ago and got as far as the title.
Things are so fast paced these days and I rarely have two hands to use, I haven't even had time to email my sister back-she's in China for another 3.5 months, or fold the clothes that have sat on the couch for 3 days now, ew! At this very moment Jake is holding Emily trying to keep her asleep and I am erasing every couple letters because the girls are running around me and bumping my arms/fingers as I type. But at least I am getting something written, right? As for pictures, I need to buy an external hard drive to put all my pictures on as I've loaded the hard drive of both computers-yep! I take a lot of pictures, I just wish I was good with the obsession and I will soon be sharing those photos with you...
I had a fantastic time in Boise with my in-laws. I got great items for the kids and am now in the process of going through all the things we already owned and cutting back by two-thirds! We have so much crap and for some reason now that I have my own place I don't feel the need to hold onto everything like I have in the past. I know I will venture to Boise again for the quarter sale and can just get more items than I need and won't even look at the items I have so I'm just going to share with those that need them...YARD SALE!! (now if the weather would be good on a weekend, all would be well...)
Jake has two more weeks of school and then he is taking the summer off to vacation the brain, finish the basement and just be with the family on his days off! We are so excited! We have a few trips planned, but will otherwise enjoy our time home keep our yard, garden, and home as clean and beautiful as we can. I am so excited to get our garden planted and see the fruits of our labors in our very own yard!
The kids have had lots of fun meeting and making new friends. We've never had such an opportunity or maybe it's that Jake and I haven't ever really let them for fear that we would be moving and have to say goodbye...now that we are long term residents we are enjoying time with neighbors and ward members and getting closer to the families around us...we can't wait to host a BBQ or two or more! We LOVE hosting parties and making delicious food...all those recipes I have marked for entertainment can now be made and enjoyed, oh I'm in heaven just thinking about it!! Whenever the sun is shining and warm we take a gander around the neighborhood and enjoy watching our children interact with all those around us, it's very exciting to see our social butterflies blossom even more!
I have made quite a few friends myself. We've been getting together every week for a craft day while the children play. We even get together once a month without kiddos and enjoy each others company. I've made ribbon boards for all the girls (well, only two are completed, but I have the supplies for the other two...just waiting for two hands longer than a half hour...although I do anticipate learning how to make ribbon bows as well. It's great fun, I've never done anything like this before.
and now my 5 minutes is up...I have a screaming child (Lydia) because I won't open the makeup for her to use...oh the joys of motherhood...
Things are so fast paced these days and I rarely have two hands to use, I haven't even had time to email my sister back-she's in China for another 3.5 months, or fold the clothes that have sat on the couch for 3 days now, ew! At this very moment Jake is holding Emily trying to keep her asleep and I am erasing every couple letters because the girls are running around me and bumping my arms/fingers as I type. But at least I am getting something written, right? As for pictures, I need to buy an external hard drive to put all my pictures on as I've loaded the hard drive of both computers-yep! I take a lot of pictures, I just wish I was good with the obsession and I will soon be sharing those photos with you...
I had a fantastic time in Boise with my in-laws. I got great items for the kids and am now in the process of going through all the things we already owned and cutting back by two-thirds! We have so much crap and for some reason now that I have my own place I don't feel the need to hold onto everything like I have in the past. I know I will venture to Boise again for the quarter sale and can just get more items than I need and won't even look at the items I have so I'm just going to share with those that need them...YARD SALE!! (now if the weather would be good on a weekend, all would be well...)
Jake has two more weeks of school and then he is taking the summer off to vacation the brain, finish the basement and just be with the family on his days off! We are so excited! We have a few trips planned, but will otherwise enjoy our time home keep our yard, garden, and home as clean and beautiful as we can. I am so excited to get our garden planted and see the fruits of our labors in our very own yard!
The kids have had lots of fun meeting and making new friends. We've never had such an opportunity or maybe it's that Jake and I haven't ever really let them for fear that we would be moving and have to say goodbye...now that we are long term residents we are enjoying time with neighbors and ward members and getting closer to the families around us...we can't wait to host a BBQ or two or more! We LOVE hosting parties and making delicious food...all those recipes I have marked for entertainment can now be made and enjoyed, oh I'm in heaven just thinking about it!! Whenever the sun is shining and warm we take a gander around the neighborhood and enjoy watching our children interact with all those around us, it's very exciting to see our social butterflies blossom even more!
I have made quite a few friends myself. We've been getting together every week for a craft day while the children play. We even get together once a month without kiddos and enjoy each others company. I've made ribbon boards for all the girls (well, only two are completed, but I have the supplies for the other two...just waiting for two hands longer than a half hour...although I do anticipate learning how to make ribbon bows as well. It's great fun, I've never done anything like this before.
and now my 5 minutes is up...I have a screaming child (Lydia) because I won't open the makeup for her to use...oh the joys of motherhood...
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Free time
In about 12hours I will be headed to Boise, just Emily and me, for a weekend of shopping fun! I am going with 2 of my sisters-in-law and my mother-in-law. This is something we've never done together before, but we are all excited to go to Other Mother's for their bi-annual GINORMOUS quarter sale! I am hoping to find enough items to replace the ones that are being recycled through the girls and have new "scenery"-if you know what I mean. I hope to find items to get us through the summer and early fall as the next huge sale isn't until october...we'll have to wait and see. By us, I really mean us. The store has added a junior/adult section so there are item for moi even! Which is exclusive to tomorrow, last time I found some great items in amazing condition (but I was too pregnant to appreciate them)-I hope to find some steals for myself even! This is an event I look forward to, but have never shared with so many people at once...this will be an adventure! It feels somewhat odd for me to just leave the kids with Jake and go, but I am so grateful that he is willing to let me go while he plays with the kids for three days. And while I'm there I will be doing some serious coupon shopping as well-I am starting to get the hang of this new found skill and can't wait to continue to grow our food/essential storage in a much more budget friendly way! I'm even contemplating starting a blog to share my finds...I know there are a lot out there that coupon and have the hang of it even more so than I do, but I feel the need to share the local deals and haven't really found anyone doing that...we'll see, but for now I will just share my findings here.
Sharing the Coupon Gossip here:
KMart is doubling coupons up to $2. You have to have their "shop your way" card to participate and you can only double 5 coupons per day, but if you can make it almost everyday of the week (that's left) you can still score some pretty awesome deals. I was able to find some great deals last night and only paid $7 ($1.50 was tax) on over $35 worth of items...dish soap, tampax, fabric softener, razors, and deodorant, which I think is pretty good for a newbie. Anyway, I hope to score some more amazing deals while in Boise this weekend...maybe I can get my in-laws to help me out and I can share some of the goods :)
Walgreens has a monthly coupon book found in the store. This month there is a coupon (located toward the back of the book) for $1 off Flexion pens/highlighters. They are regularly priced $1.19 a double pack of pens or triple pack of highlighters. With the coupon get them $.19 a pack! You can buy as many as you want with the same coupon as well. I went and got myself two packs of pens and one pack of highlighters and discovered a $4.50 rebate on the back (limit one rebate per household), when you buy three-HUGE money maker! It takes about 6-8 weeks to receive the rebate, so we'll see if it really goes through, but it's another great deal and awesome stock up since the coupon lasts through the 24th. I think I will be going again to get more.
Let me know what fun sales/coupon finds you've experienced and I'll try to keep up with mine a well...Emily is getting a little better at not needing to be held so much, so I'm slowly getting more done each day-but I'll try to post more coupon gossip regularly (I use the term loosely though).
Have a great weekend everyone, I know I will!!
Sharing the Coupon Gossip here:
KMart is doubling coupons up to $2. You have to have their "shop your way" card to participate and you can only double 5 coupons per day, but if you can make it almost everyday of the week (that's left) you can still score some pretty awesome deals. I was able to find some great deals last night and only paid $7 ($1.50 was tax) on over $35 worth of items...dish soap, tampax, fabric softener, razors, and deodorant, which I think is pretty good for a newbie. Anyway, I hope to score some more amazing deals while in Boise this weekend...maybe I can get my in-laws to help me out and I can share some of the goods :)
Walgreens has a monthly coupon book found in the store. This month there is a coupon (located toward the back of the book) for $1 off Flexion pens/highlighters. They are regularly priced $1.19 a double pack of pens or triple pack of highlighters. With the coupon get them $.19 a pack! You can buy as many as you want with the same coupon as well. I went and got myself two packs of pens and one pack of highlighters and discovered a $4.50 rebate on the back (limit one rebate per household), when you buy three-HUGE money maker! It takes about 6-8 weeks to receive the rebate, so we'll see if it really goes through, but it's another great deal and awesome stock up since the coupon lasts through the 24th. I think I will be going again to get more.
Let me know what fun sales/coupon finds you've experienced and I'll try to keep up with mine a well...Emily is getting a little better at not needing to be held so much, so I'm slowly getting more done each day-but I'll try to post more coupon gossip regularly (I use the term loosely though).
Have a great weekend everyone, I know I will!!
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Kids say the darndest things...
We were at a stop light waiting to go straight. The turn light changed to green and Jake started to go. I asked him what land he was on after he came out of his daze and we hear Bryant in the background...
"Land HO!"
We laughed so hard we cried...
"Land HO!"
We laughed so hard we cried...
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Survival revisted...
In my last post I stated I had survived my first day alone with 5 children...then why haven't I posted in a good three weeks? There's lots of reasons actually, but to put it in a nutshell-I've survived barely hanging by the skin of my teeth (why do we have that phrase anyway??)
I'm not going to lie, five is by far the hardest number I have dealt with, but I"m realizing it's mostly because #4 really likes my attention is not very happy that she doesn't get as much. She has adjusted rather well and the other girls have really stepped up to keep her company, but there are those moments when she just wants me and I just can't hold her as long as she would like. It's very heart breaking. We do sneak in snuggle times more and more which is great for both of us.
In the meantime, I woke up this morning and realized it's been one month since Emily was born! Holy cow, it has gone fast. Mostly in part to all the events that have taken place in such a short time. Kayelynn turned FIVE on the 24th of February!! Bryant has started wrestling and we just had Emily's blessing on Sunday.
HAPPY #5 KAYELYNN!!!
castle cake, daddy created!
blowing out the magic number...make a wish...
blowing out the magic number...make a wish...
the grin on her face here, is how it was all day long!!!
Happy Birthday sweetheart!
WRESTLE-mania
WRESTLE-mania
the one in the black and red shorts
getting tips from a dad/coach
EMILY blessing
she was not so happy to pose, she just wanted to eat :)
peaceful
our new family of 7!
she's posing with her new cousin, Sophia (on the right) and her new 2nd cousin, Kaitlyn (on left)
I have to say, I am so glad that we have such a loving and caring ward, they brought in many meals and it has saved me more than I care to count! I am so glad that people understand that my house is not going to be clean when they come to visit, especially the unfinished basement that has toys scattered from wall to wall in both directions! I am so glad that Emily is a good baby-even if she doesn't sleep in her bed during the day-that's what Moby wraps were invented for, mom's to use both extremities while still holding their baby!!
Monday, February 22, 2010
Survival
I officially survived my first day alone with 5 children, granted one is in school all day, but still the routine of life had to keep going and although I am beyond tired I still had to get up and keep with life. There were many tender mercy moments throughout the day that just kept me going and I'm truly grateful!
There were minor interruptions in the routine that threw us off, but we all survived and still wanted to be around each other by bed time, no one prayed for mommy to not be grumpy-I must have done a pretty good job. Lydia is still learning that I will be holding Emily a lot more than she wants and that I can't always have her just climb on my lap. She refused to take a nap today and by bedtime she was so tired and still wouldn't fall asleep. I was nursing Emily and asked Lydia to come sit by me so I could snuggle her while I took care of Emily, she immediately climbed next to me and feel fast asleep. Oh how I miss being able to hold her whenever she asks. We will get there I know. One day down...bring on another!
There were minor interruptions in the routine that threw us off, but we all survived and still wanted to be around each other by bed time, no one prayed for mommy to not be grumpy-I must have done a pretty good job. Lydia is still learning that I will be holding Emily a lot more than she wants and that I can't always have her just climb on my lap. She refused to take a nap today and by bedtime she was so tired and still wouldn't fall asleep. I was nursing Emily and asked Lydia to come sit by me so I could snuggle her while I took care of Emily, she immediately climbed next to me and feel fast asleep. Oh how I miss being able to hold her whenever she asks. We will get there I know. One day down...bring on another!
Friday, February 12, 2010
EMILY LOUISE
We finally picked a name! It wasn't even on our "list", Jake mentioned it and it just worked! (Jake's dad has always wanted a little "Emmy-lou"...we will allow this nickname only from her grandpa-we are not a nickname family, we have always wanted to name our children what we want them to be known as, so this will be a stretch, but for grandpa there will be an exception...) I am just loving her more and more each minute! It's so special the spirit a newborn brings into the home.
The kids can't get enough of her, now that we are home Lydia is doing much better with the idea of having a baby to share attention with. Lydia now has her own baby that she keeps with her at all times, but she is found often giving soft little kisses on Emily's nose or forehead, it is so sweet!
The kids can't get enough of her, now that we are home Lydia is doing much better with the idea of having a baby to share attention with. Lydia now has her own baby that she keeps with her at all times, but she is found often giving soft little kisses on Emily's nose or forehead, it is so sweet!
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
BABY
7am - arrived for induction
8:45am - midwife arrived to break water
10:30am - water finally started leaking, and I started walking to jump start contractions; checking in every half hour for baby heart beat.
12:30pm - contractions started hitting, rested
2:30pm - decided to walk again, only lasted 1/2 hour
3pm - at a 6 and going "quickly", finally got some pain meds, midwife arrived
4:30pm - meds wore off, "walked" in room-this was the real thing
5:09pm - 3-4 pushes later and she was out
8lbs. 14 oz.
19 inches
We still don't have a name...working on that...
She LOVES to eat!
She has two huge, adorable dimples!
She is very alert, and just trying to rest...I'm finding she likes to be on her side...
We are doing very well. Everyone is invited to see her next Saturday, Feb. 20th...I am having an open house for Miche bags-LOVE them (it's my new diaper bag) from 11am- 2pm...feel free to come browse the bags, coddle the baby and see our new home!
Thank you everyone for your love, support, thoughts and prayers.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
On her way...
I had some seriously awesome contractions yesterday that started about 1pm. Jake suggested about 7pm that I call the midwife and get some advice since they weren't getting any worse with walking and they would pretty much subside when I sat (at least in any pain level). I finally got in touch with her about 8pm and her suggestion was that I stay home and try to rest through them, if not, then make my way up-in the mean time she said not to wait until my scheduled appointment today, but to come first thing...I went to bed at 10:30pm and only woke a few times to the feelings of contractions. I was more than a little annoyed. We made it to the doctor just after 9am (which is when they open) and prayed and prayed I would be at a 4 or better yet a 5, but seriously I am at a 3.5!!!!!! I wanted to cry and the midwife had joked that if I was still at a 3 that she might cry with me. She immediately asked if we wanted to wait a few more days or just be induced. Jake immediately answered with a positive induction! He skipped school today hoping we could go today and has work covered for tomorrow, but beyond that he can't afford to miss more school or work, so she went to call the hospital while I had a pretty good pity party and silently cried!
We are scheduled to go in tomorrow (Wednesday) morning at 7am to begin the induction, which for me has only ever involved them breaking my water. We have to call around 6am to make sure there is still a bed open, before we make the 20 minute trek.
So, as of now our newest addition is on her way....there will be updates tomorrow, keep checking here and facebook. There won't be any pictures right away, but we can surely give small details :)
Thank you all for your support and prayers through these months. We just can't wait to meet our little bundle (still without a name)...
We are scheduled to go in tomorrow (Wednesday) morning at 7am to begin the induction, which for me has only ever involved them breaking my water. We have to call around 6am to make sure there is still a bed open, before we make the 20 minute trek.
So, as of now our newest addition is on her way....there will be updates tomorrow, keep checking here and facebook. There won't be any pictures right away, but we can surely give small details :)
Thank you all for your support and prayers through these months. We just can't wait to meet our little bundle (still without a name)...
Monday, February 8, 2010
7 days
I'm sure you are sick of hearing about this baby and I feel badly that it's all I have to post about, but seriously when you are planning for the arrival of a new little bundle there's not much more your brain or body thinks about. And then you add 4 children that are constantly adding to the anxious frenzy...
We have officially hit 39 weeks (I have not made it this far since being pregnant with Bryant). I have been having some pretty good contractions since about Wednesday night, but they are too random to make the 20 minute drive just to be told to go home. I have been getting really tired and nauseous feeling in the evenings and Jake has been really good at helping get the kids to bed while I relax (and usually end up falling asleep).
I have an appointment tomorrow morning and hope that the midwife can get something going this week since she will be leaving town Friday afternoon. This should be the week...haha!
We have been staying as busy as possible though. Jake is doing well in school, Bryant is jumping leaps and bounds with his reading, Kayelynn is teaching herself how to read, Sarah is trying so hard to spell her name, and Lydia is just sprouting with her personality daily!! There has been a slight air of tension in the home because we don't want to plan too much just to end up disappointing the kids, so we made Saturday a day away from home; we did a little shopping and then walked and walked and walked the mall. The kids were a little confused at first, but then realized that if we stay moving then maybe, just maybe, the baby would come out of mommy's tummy...when we got home they wanted to walk around the neighborhood too. I was so sore and we still had the ward adult party to attend.
We went to the ward party (Jake was kicking and screaming-it's so not his thing), which was a 70's/80's theme. And because I was part of the program-some of us were doing a lip sync-I stressed out on how to dress up (I hadn't planned to be there really). What on earth did pregnant women wear in the 80's??? No offense, but they wore seriously ugly clothing! I went to the DI and couldn't get myself to purchase anything, it was hideous. So I just put a few pieces together of what I own, and slathered on the makeup and put accessories on (not really sure I looked the part, but I tried). It ended up being a very entertaining night, the activities committee really knows how to have fun and the ward is very good at participating!
After all the dancing and walking Saturday I was sure it would trigger something, but Sunday came and went with a few intense contractions, but not enough to "count". Jake just text me that he has people to come in and cover for him today, if needed-too bad we can't just tell a baby when to come, they really just have to come on their own!
We have officially hit 39 weeks (I have not made it this far since being pregnant with Bryant). I have been having some pretty good contractions since about Wednesday night, but they are too random to make the 20 minute drive just to be told to go home. I have been getting really tired and nauseous feeling in the evenings and Jake has been really good at helping get the kids to bed while I relax (and usually end up falling asleep).
I have an appointment tomorrow morning and hope that the midwife can get something going this week since she will be leaving town Friday afternoon. This should be the week...haha!
We have been staying as busy as possible though. Jake is doing well in school, Bryant is jumping leaps and bounds with his reading, Kayelynn is teaching herself how to read, Sarah is trying so hard to spell her name, and Lydia is just sprouting with her personality daily!! There has been a slight air of tension in the home because we don't want to plan too much just to end up disappointing the kids, so we made Saturday a day away from home; we did a little shopping and then walked and walked and walked the mall. The kids were a little confused at first, but then realized that if we stay moving then maybe, just maybe, the baby would come out of mommy's tummy...when we got home they wanted to walk around the neighborhood too. I was so sore and we still had the ward adult party to attend.
We went to the ward party (Jake was kicking and screaming-it's so not his thing), which was a 70's/80's theme. And because I was part of the program-some of us were doing a lip sync-I stressed out on how to dress up (I hadn't planned to be there really). What on earth did pregnant women wear in the 80's??? No offense, but they wore seriously ugly clothing! I went to the DI and couldn't get myself to purchase anything, it was hideous. So I just put a few pieces together of what I own, and slathered on the makeup and put accessories on (not really sure I looked the part, but I tried). It ended up being a very entertaining night, the activities committee really knows how to have fun and the ward is very good at participating!
After all the dancing and walking Saturday I was sure it would trigger something, but Sunday came and went with a few intense contractions, but not enough to "count". Jake just text me that he has people to come in and cover for him today, if needed-too bad we can't just tell a baby when to come, they really just have to come on their own!
Thursday, February 4, 2010
TO DO
So after the last post I realized that I had basically just written my to-do list in a very whiney and S.O.S fashion, not so...it's amazing what writing something down will do for the mind and spirit! I woke up the next morning determined to try and get something done despite the lack of energy I've been feeling.
I managed to get the laundry done, including folded and put away! That's huge for me...there are times when the laundry just sits in a pile and we all have to just search through it to find whatever item(s) are in need...not yesterday! It felt so good to go to bed knowing I got something accomplished from start to finish! I even went all out last night and made a dinner that I've never made before and surprisingly only one child wasn't impressed.
Yeah for to-do lists and the power of accomplishment!
So, although I totally burnt myself out yesterday I know I can accomplish at least one thing on my list each day!
I managed to get the laundry done, including folded and put away! That's huge for me...there are times when the laundry just sits in a pile and we all have to just search through it to find whatever item(s) are in need...not yesterday! It felt so good to go to bed knowing I got something accomplished from start to finish! I even went all out last night and made a dinner that I've never made before and surprisingly only one child wasn't impressed.
Yeah for to-do lists and the power of accomplishment!
So, although I totally burnt myself out yesterday I know I can accomplish at least one thing on my list each day!
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
you're looking...
PREGNANT!!!
All I have heard the last week is how horrible/miserable I look. I thought I was doing pretty good, but my belly is shouting how heavy it is by how much it's dropped closer and closer to my knees.
I went to the midwife today and heard only the most horrible news a mother could hear (especially one that has had a few kids)...still at a 3!! haven't progressed much, except that baby has come down into position again and that I look like I've dropped. All good signs, I suppose, but seriously! the "weight" is getting to me. At this point it could be a dragon baby and I would be happy that it is out of me. I have hit that time in pregnancy where I absolutely have no energy beyond the bare, bare necessities. Even some of those are sliding by. Laundry is piled a mile high, both in what needs folded and what needs washed. The dishes finally got done tonight, but only because I just couldn't handle it a second longer. The floor needs mopped and vacuumed and the bathrooms-I won't even go there! But you know, I just don't have energy. I hate to admit that, but it's true. Is that a sign??
However, a slight selfish part of me hopes this baby decides to stay in just a little longer now that she didn't come out today. I have a fun night scheduled for Thursday that I surely don't want to miss and I have a fun night Saturday that I would been seriously sad to miss. So, I've told her she now has to wait and come anytime after 9pm Saturday (she just has to give me enough notice to make it 20 minutes to the hospital). With all the contractions I've been having for the past two weeks, I just hope we can get things done quickly when the time arrives :) No more jokes from this kiddo, please.
Bryant came home today hoping with all his heart that I was at the hospital, he was disappointed for a few minutes and then has just kept saying that she can come any day. He's been a good helper knowing I can't do as much right now. The kids are so excited they have started to pray that the baby come out "tomorrow". They are too excited and Lydia can't help but join in the excitement, although she has no idea, nor will she like it. So, here's to "tomorrow"!!
All I have heard the last week is how horrible/miserable I look. I thought I was doing pretty good, but my belly is shouting how heavy it is by how much it's dropped closer and closer to my knees.
I went to the midwife today and heard only the most horrible news a mother could hear (especially one that has had a few kids)...still at a 3!! haven't progressed much, except that baby has come down into position again and that I look like I've dropped. All good signs, I suppose, but seriously! the "weight" is getting to me. At this point it could be a dragon baby and I would be happy that it is out of me. I have hit that time in pregnancy where I absolutely have no energy beyond the bare, bare necessities. Even some of those are sliding by. Laundry is piled a mile high, both in what needs folded and what needs washed. The dishes finally got done tonight, but only because I just couldn't handle it a second longer. The floor needs mopped and vacuumed and the bathrooms-I won't even go there! But you know, I just don't have energy. I hate to admit that, but it's true. Is that a sign??
However, a slight selfish part of me hopes this baby decides to stay in just a little longer now that she didn't come out today. I have a fun night scheduled for Thursday that I surely don't want to miss and I have a fun night Saturday that I would been seriously sad to miss. So, I've told her she now has to wait and come anytime after 9pm Saturday (she just has to give me enough notice to make it 20 minutes to the hospital). With all the contractions I've been having for the past two weeks, I just hope we can get things done quickly when the time arrives :) No more jokes from this kiddo, please.
Bryant came home today hoping with all his heart that I was at the hospital, he was disappointed for a few minutes and then has just kept saying that she can come any day. He's been a good helper knowing I can't do as much right now. The kids are so excited they have started to pray that the baby come out "tomorrow". They are too excited and Lydia can't help but join in the excitement, although she has no idea, nor will she like it. So, here's to "tomorrow"!!
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
a mother's intuition??
I think it's more like a mother's-wish/dream-that-needs-to-come-true-any-day-please...
Went to the midwife this morning...only at a 3, the baby has moved so much she's not even "locked and ready" anymore. The past three pregnancies I have been to a 5 by now for sure and felt less ready, what is the deal? After three in a row, almost the same, you begin to wonder if you aren't doing something right, but then I remember that it's all in time and this baby will come when she needs-not on my terms. So now I need to find something to occupy my time and try to not think of what is to come.
If nothing happens before next Tuesday, I'll be headed in again and hopefully with much more progress (wait, did I just say it would be on baby terms, not mine?? gotta remember that).
Went to the midwife this morning...only at a 3, the baby has moved so much she's not even "locked and ready" anymore. The past three pregnancies I have been to a 5 by now for sure and felt less ready, what is the deal? After three in a row, almost the same, you begin to wonder if you aren't doing something right, but then I remember that it's all in time and this baby will come when she needs-not on my terms. So now I need to find something to occupy my time and try to not think of what is to come.
If nothing happens before next Tuesday, I'll be headed in again and hopefully with much more progress (wait, did I just say it would be on baby terms, not mine?? gotta remember that).
Monday, January 25, 2010
anything? anything?
set to the tone of the teacher on ferris buellers day off
Since about Thursday night I have been having on and off contractions that can get me down for the moment and then they subside-rather irritating. Well I woke up Sunday morning feeling just plain 'ol crappy. I was supposed to teach my primary class that morning so I decided to buck up and just go to church, that everything would subside like it had the past 3 days...half way through primary I just couldn't take it anymore. I went and found Jake in sunday school and told him we had to get home things weren't looking or feeling any better. We collected the kids, I ditched primary (with my teaching partner grateful she had decided to read the lesson that morning) and we were on our way home to decide if we should drive 20 minutes to the hospital or not.
I immediately went to my comfortable bed and laid down letting Jake take care of the confused kids. Within an hour things, of course, slowed down and I felt a little better throughout the day, I think thanks to a short nap. Jake didn't sleep well last night, hoping and praying that something would happen during the night and reacting to every movement I made-it was pretty funny.
Today I have been trying to be as active as possible to get contractions to do something. They have been pretty minimal until I started writing this post. I cleaned the basement-which was strewn with toys from one end to the other. I crawled and squatted as much as possible to get my body to react-all I have to show for it is a very, very sore back-my fault I suppose.
We made cookies, I did a few freezer meals, helped kids stay happy and do homework and nothing seemed to do anything. Then I went to change a diaper and BOOM! the random feelings of uncomfortableness have begun...I suppose we'll see what happens, but I'm pretty sure this will be the week. We'll know more after my appointment Wednesday morning (if I make it that far, Jake thinks I won't).
It's been a funny day, the girls have been asking over and over if the baby could come tomorrow or tonight. I told them they would have to tell her to come. Since we took them out of primary yesterday they have been super, super excited and confused why the baby hasn't come yet. As I was tucking them in tonight the girls noticed that I was acting a little differently and Sarah immediately declares that the baby needs to stop hurting me, when Kayelynn answers with "no, Sarah, the baby is trying to come out" They both looked at each other and squealed! It was too cute. They then told me that she could come tomorrow when everyone was done with school (which is after 3pm). I told them I would do what I could. So funny the things kids say.
Since about Thursday night I have been having on and off contractions that can get me down for the moment and then they subside-rather irritating. Well I woke up Sunday morning feeling just plain 'ol crappy. I was supposed to teach my primary class that morning so I decided to buck up and just go to church, that everything would subside like it had the past 3 days...half way through primary I just couldn't take it anymore. I went and found Jake in sunday school and told him we had to get home things weren't looking or feeling any better. We collected the kids, I ditched primary (with my teaching partner grateful she had decided to read the lesson that morning) and we were on our way home to decide if we should drive 20 minutes to the hospital or not.
I immediately went to my comfortable bed and laid down letting Jake take care of the confused kids. Within an hour things, of course, slowed down and I felt a little better throughout the day, I think thanks to a short nap. Jake didn't sleep well last night, hoping and praying that something would happen during the night and reacting to every movement I made-it was pretty funny.
Today I have been trying to be as active as possible to get contractions to do something. They have been pretty minimal until I started writing this post. I cleaned the basement-which was strewn with toys from one end to the other. I crawled and squatted as much as possible to get my body to react-all I have to show for it is a very, very sore back-my fault I suppose.
We made cookies, I did a few freezer meals, helped kids stay happy and do homework and nothing seemed to do anything. Then I went to change a diaper and BOOM! the random feelings of uncomfortableness have begun...I suppose we'll see what happens, but I'm pretty sure this will be the week. We'll know more after my appointment Wednesday morning (if I make it that far, Jake thinks I won't).
It's been a funny day, the girls have been asking over and over if the baby could come tomorrow or tonight. I told them they would have to tell her to come. Since we took them out of primary yesterday they have been super, super excited and confused why the baby hasn't come yet. As I was tucking them in tonight the girls noticed that I was acting a little differently and Sarah immediately declares that the baby needs to stop hurting me, when Kayelynn answers with "no, Sarah, the baby is trying to come out" They both looked at each other and squealed! It was too cute. They then told me that she could come tomorrow when everyone was done with school (which is after 3pm). I told them I would do what I could. So funny the things kids say.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Baby Update...
In case you are wondering, since I did mention that I was headed to the doctor today, I figured I would put up a little update.
I see a midwife, she gave me her phone number so I can call her when we leave the house on our way to the hospital as it is 20 minutes away, that made me think I am probably closer than I am admitting too. I am dialated to a 2 (whoopie) and 60% effaced. The baby is settled in place, as the midwife was unable to move the baby's head, she declared that the baby was "locked and ready". I am measuring only one week ahead, so nothing major...I feel bigger than that, but knowing how I've looked in the past I know I'm not. I have started to get swelling in my feet and legs, so there is some discomfort through the days, but really I'm doing quite well. I finally realized as I was leaving the office that truly I probably only have 2 weeks left, as the last three babies have come in the 38th week-yikes!
I will be going in next Wednesday for my weekly check-up and we'll go from there. I came home and started finding all the blankets, burp cloths and anything else baby and washed them all-I've been in denial that she really is coming this quickly. I just need to pack my bag and get the moses basket all plush with blankets and I'll be as set as I can be until she arrives!
I see a midwife, she gave me her phone number so I can call her when we leave the house on our way to the hospital as it is 20 minutes away, that made me think I am probably closer than I am admitting too. I am dialated to a 2 (whoopie) and 60% effaced. The baby is settled in place, as the midwife was unable to move the baby's head, she declared that the baby was "locked and ready". I am measuring only one week ahead, so nothing major...I feel bigger than that, but knowing how I've looked in the past I know I'm not. I have started to get swelling in my feet and legs, so there is some discomfort through the days, but really I'm doing quite well. I finally realized as I was leaving the office that truly I probably only have 2 weeks left, as the last three babies have come in the 38th week-yikes!
I will be going in next Wednesday for my weekly check-up and we'll go from there. I came home and started finding all the blankets, burp cloths and anything else baby and washed them all-I've been in denial that she really is coming this quickly. I just need to pack my bag and get the moses basket all plush with blankets and I'll be as set as I can be until she arrives!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire
This is one MEGA-post!
I said I would update like two weeks ago...there is a story, but not really the-dog-ate-my-paper type. I had to plug in the other computer (which, unfortunately I don't know how to do) and therefore had to convince Jake of the importance of this chore...to download all the pictures from since we moved in...and then put them on the jump drive to be able to share them with you...
So I finally convinced Jake to set up the computer the other day and I went to download pictures without a mouse (couldn't find it)-that was so not working, so after crying out of frustration and disappointment I told Jake he would need to find a mouse quickly! He borrowed one from a friend and so I went to download pictures the next day. Things were going great, I was getting happier and more excited-especially because I forgot about some of the pictures on there. Then I see a pop-up notifying me that my jump drive is full and I've only downloaded up until the Christmas parties at the girls' preschool which is where all the fun pictures start! So, here I am waiting to get another jump drive and finally biting the bullet and just sharing what I do have.
So there's the story...enjoy pictures!
our finished home, just before we moved in...
kids enjoying the last nights at the nasty, scratch that, humble apartment
BIRTHDAY BOY-7!!
he wanted the theme pirate...somehow he had lost the hook, eye patch and hat by the time this picture was taken...ha!
daddy's creation of the pirate himself
hope he made a good wish...
he made out like a bandit!
with money even!
one of the prize cars his sisters chose for him...adding to the massive collection
his "most favorite" gift...he couldn't stop gazing enough to even grin at the camera!
DECORATED HOME
we managed to get this put together just before the birthday party...6 hours before this room was all boxes! thanks Jake!
another angle
my nativity up high-safe from small and curious hands
GINGERBREAD HOUSE??
who needs a gingerbread house when they can have a fruity/chocolate pebbles train??? Jake and I went to his work party and since Grandma was the babysitter, they made this awesome train complete with snowy tracks. They had a blast and couldn't get over how awesome their creation was!!!
SNOW MUCH FUN!!
playing in the very, very cold in the backyard
helping each other create a small snow cave
finding something new every couple minutes...who knew a yard would be so much fun??
testing the waters/ahem...snow
and enjoying every single minute!!!
ELEM. CHRISTMAS PROGRAM
the first graders were snowflakes...
enjoying the "spotlight"
all M-Z first graders...the school was big enough we went to a local high school auditorium and they had to still split the school by alphabet to get the program to work correctly!
Bryant's select audience! It was so fun to watch the girls amazed with the performance and eyeing where Bryant would be as well as singing/dancing along with the students!
Until I get another jumpdrive, these are the pictures you get to see. We are doing well, settling in nicely, organizing the best we can with an unfinished basement-yet to be finished! {giddy}
I am surviving nicely. I have just under 30 days left and am starting to feel the drag of the days and the desire to sleep and sleep and sleep...needless to say there are many afternoons of cat naps. I will go to the doctor on Wednesday and see what/if any progress there may be. As much as I am not ready for her to arrive, I wouldn't be against an early delivery...I just need to find that last burst of energy to finish that "honey-do" list on my own-haha!
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