"They're Witches".....oh, of course!

The other day, Nathan was quietly drawing...only this time he was concentrating very hard and taking some time on his doodling. This really wasn't normal, but I didn't think much of it at the time. Granted, I was hoping he wasn't just drawing on the table or ruining the marker. Thank goodness, he wasn't. When he was done, this is what he excitedly came to show me:




I remembered that it is a good idea to have the child tell you what is in their picture to help foster the creative side of their brains...(that, and I wanted to be able to tell Daddy...maybe even write it on the paper for him...to translate). So, he looks at me - as though it were obvious and i should know this - and says, "They're witches!" What I love the most is that his witches are happy!

My Favorites A to Z

I saw this on Jessica's blog and thought it would be a good and cute idea to b"log" some of my favorite things. Since my purpose for this blog is to export the posts and create books for my children...maybe it is a good thing for them to know about Mommy and who I am today. I took this a step further to explain some of the entries just so I can be specific for when I or others read this in the future...


Animal: Orange Bengal Tiger

Book: Dr. Phil's Life Strategies. It was/is through this book that I realized how I can improve my relationship with others and mainly with myself.

Color: RED!

Dessert: Plain (good) Cheesecake

Eat: Ribeye (med-rare) and Mashed Potatoes (no skins)

Flower: Yellow Rose - What girl doesn't love roses??? But the yellow is (my personality) different...not ordinary...special.

Game: As for board games...I like Clue...but for the game I play with the boyz...that's easy! I sacrifice my kids to "Zorcon the Space Guy" and toss them on my bed or the couch. I can usually get kisses out of them for each sacrifice. Who wouldn't love that!?

Hobbies: In my "spare time" that I don't have...I enjoy my Elementary Math Education Master's degree...thinking about my business I am starting soon...and blogging...and sleeping...and snuggling...and sleeping...


Idea: Fake it till you make it.

Joke: I used to think that the human brain was the most fascinating part of the body...then I realized...look what's telling me that! -- Emo Phillips

Kiss: Aug 12, 1996. My first kiss...with anyone...with my husband. AJ's library park. We had a picnic dinner and some dancing. He asked me to close my eyes...took my face in his hands and gently kissed me. That is when I knew I was going to marry Devin. He thought me special enough to wait over 3 months from when we started dating (shows he knows kisses are special) to kiss me.

Love: To sleep - no really!

Music: Feels Like Today (Rascal Flatts) Sung by Devin Reed...with Daddy deployed the words seem to be of special importance...plus Devin's voice is AMAZING!!! and Phantom of the Opera soundtrack...again...passion.

Number: 3 - I love this number because of the 3 words: I love you AND it is my lucky lane for running track in High School AND the Gospel correlations.

Old Movie: Does Back to the Future count? No one else does...but I like the second one best...only in that the first movie shots are included...how'd they do that?!?

Place: Maryland. I look back quite fondly of our short stay in Maryland and hope that someday we can return. This is where we started our family after waiting soooo very long for it. This is where we also established ourselves as a separate family unit then the ones we grew up in. We were on our own and experiencing life. Good times!

Quote:

Restaurant: Does the restaurant of "I didn't have to make it" fit this category?

Sport: I will always like Track best...especially the sprinting. But I would rather participate then watch. Otherwise...I don't really like to watch sports...but I DID really like watching Nathan "play" soccer this last summer. Maybe it will be different when the kids are in sports.

Time of Year: At the moment...my favorite time of year HAS to be the time that Devin is home! Sure seems like its own "season" these days! Life is aggrivating but Devin makes it worth it. Thanks to all he does for our lil family...sure do miss him.

Unusual Thing:

Vehicle: I am not really classified as a "car person"...but my favorites are 1. Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo (the tan and black paint job) and 2. Jaguar s-type 3.0 (silver). Weird that none of my dream cars are red...but at least my van is! And I really do like my van.

Woman: My mother...Valerie. For me and my experiences: when I was a little girl I would try to pretend to be my mother....wearing her shoes, her lipstick, talk like her...then I grew up and wanted nothing to do with her...thought I knew it all and she just had no clue....then I matured and realized that if I can be half the amazing woman she is...I will be truely an amazing woman.

X-tra:

Yourself:

Z's hours: Again...right now it is when I can get them! My mind seems to take forever to calm down right when I go to bed...so I guess the best time for me to actually sleep well is between midnight and 5am. But, I always like more more more more hours!

I really can't think of the other ones...feel free to leave your thoughts and opinions about the blank ones (or the ones that are not blank!) and how you would answer them about me. I will fill them in...in a few days.

My Life in Pictures

Life has been...interesting, to say the least. BUT...the good news is that I am getting the hang of things and even taking some more pictures. Here is what is going on in our little lives:

While it has been tough getting settled and getting into a routine, I am so glad with where my life is right now. Yes, Nathan drives me crazy as he lacked structure for so long...I am feeling it! And yes, Matthew has begun a stripping phase (which to my "delight" included stripping off the diaper twice tonight!) and yes, Lydia is harder to do Babywise with...just can't seem to get her schedule down with mine so up in the air! But with all that going on...I look at my children and wonder what on earth I did to deserve these little people and to be the person who gets to be mommy to them. Then, I hurry up and take pictures so daddy doesn't feel left out and can see what these little "angels" are doing!

And as for our new addition and how she is being recieve by the boyz...they ADORE HER! Each boy loves to hold their baby sister and loves to point her out to everyone and tell everyone about her. I think just about every other sentance they say includes her name of some kind. Really, I couldn't ask for a better situation and a better response to having another little being to constantly be around and care for. They are really (honestly) my little helpers with her.

Check out my sister!

Ok...so for those out there that even remotely know my "little" sister (she grew up too...not fair!)...you are well aware of her amazing ability to be creative and artistic. While we all have our talents and wonderful abilities...she definitely has an overwhelming amount of talent. I think she took it from us while we were all sleeping....

Anyways, without further ado...she has created a blog (http://designingmybliss.blogspot.com) which.....IS AWESOME!!!! Especially because she can do all sorts of things AND not make me (or others hopefully) feel retarded because I never thought of such cute things.

She just did a giveaway from a home decor boutique. Please go check it out because you really will be amazed with 1. her blog 2. her creative ideas and 3. the home decor boutique.

For all my wonderful "fans of Liz" PLEASE (Pretty Please) go to her blog (http://designingmybliss.blogspot.com) and leave a comment so she knows we all exist...that would really help her and me out.

Scary Busy few weeks

The new year has been rather scary busy for our lil family in the states. Pretty much right when we were reunited just after Christmas...Matthew began his week of being sick. He would cough and have a runny nose and throw up in the night after hours of coughing. Generally, it was the common cold...but something inside me wondered if it was RSV again. This would be the 3rd time in his 2 years of life. Well, Friday Jan 1 he woke up and was very lethargic and tired. Gma Lynne kept saying that she was afraid it turned into pneumonia. And...she was right. We went to Urgent Care and then to the hospital where he was admitted for "middle right lobe pneumonia". He was there for 3 days (Friday, Saturday - his birthday! - and Sunday). The hardest part is that he was happy and running around for the entire week...even when he had temps up to 103!

I had to sign a waiver to get a big bed and not the crib...totally worth it. But it was still rather sad to see his little body so sick in such a big bed! I was able to sleep/rest in the bed with him overnight. I was cramped but he got sleep and did very well...so that was nice.

Poor little right arm had the IV in it for days. I should have gotten a picture with the diaper wrapped around it. I guess that is how the hospital helped protect the IV...after the first day, Matthew was using his arm to punch me and I became a punching bag.

Ok, so how pathetic does he look?! This is the day he was discharged. He got a little ride out to the car...so cute!

Then, as if my life wasn't already hectic and stressful enough, that next day, Lydia started with the coughing and began with a lot of boogers. Her appetite decreased so much that she would eat about 2 oz in 12 hours...and she would sleep around the clock...barely any awake time. I took her to the doctor that Wed and was told she had a common cold. I asked to get her tested for RSV, but I guess I needed to speak louder or do more demanding because I didn't get the test. By Friday, she was much worse and again, Gma Lynne and I got reeeeally nervous. Totally should have brought her in sooner, but early (5am) Saturday (Jan 9) I took her to the ER and they tested her for RSV...you guessed it! Positive. She was hospitalized that day...we got to ride in an ambulance.

Again...so pathetic because she is just sooo tiny! Saturday was the rough day because her stats were touch and go...the doctor and nurses almost had her air evacuated to and intensive care unit...but luckily things didn't get that bad...close, but she has been progressively getting better everyday now. It really is difficult to see your 2 week old baby with an IV and oxygen. She absolutely "loves" her breathing treatments and "beatings" that she gets every 2-4 hours. But the nurses all love her and are so happy that she is getting better. With any luck we will spring this joint tomorrow (Wed - Jan 13)...we can only hope.

And Daddy, just so you know....your dad and Uncle Eric came by each hospital stay to give our lilbits blessings and to help me with my adult withdrawal illness. Both blessings were very good. For Matthew's blessing Uncle Eric had the impression that our little Matthew has a "old and wise spirit" and understands things far beyond his little years. We have much to learn from him as he grows up. And for Lydia's blessing Uncle Eric felt that even tho Lydia won't remember her stay in the hospital, that the bond that we form here will be felt throughout her life...mine too! Also that our spirits would become closer and that I would be able to look in her eyes and see her spirit and connect with her that way.

Gpa Lon and baby Lydia holding hands...she wouldn't let go of his hand for nothin! I think there are more bonds forming with our move to AZ...good ones.

For Daddy! 1-1-10

This is for Daddy! We have such a cute lil family!

The boyz are rough housing more...more physical contact. At least in these photos they are doing it in the name of "gimme a hug!" Nathan is learning how to stop when and if Matthew starts to cry. Learning to know the difference of fun and not fun anymore. Such cute little posers for the camera too. They are getting used to having Lydia around and are fascinated with her tiny features. Matthew likes to point out her nose, feet, and knees. Nathan is always asking what she is doing. Which is usually sleeping or eating! (Mom...me... is totally jealous)

Lydia is growing as well. She is starting to have more awake time with her eyes actually open! Yes, she changes everyday, but just keeps getting cuter...if that is possible. She snorts when she cries...which really doesn't seem to happen that often. A really good eater too. Yes, her favorite awake time is between 3 and 5 AM (ugg!) so we will have to remedy that one. I am starting Baby Wise, so there is a light at the end of the tunnel. She has a "double chin" and little tiny fingers. I kiss her constantly! Extra just for you.....

Oh, we watched the movie "Babe" and now Nathan understands where "HIS" ni-ni song comes from. He likes to sing it to me now. We love you and miss you sooooo much, Daddy! But we are also so very proud of your work and know you love us right back. Be safe!

Introducing.....Our Lydia Story

Wednesday December 23rd started as every other day had started since this pregnancy. I woke up wondering how my little Lydia was faring and if today would be the day I would see her little face and get to know this little person that had become a parasite...wondering if she would ever leave the confines of my warm self and enter this world.

At 8pm I started having contractions that seemed different. Just a little more pain "down yonder" and I didn't think much of them because I had had regular contractions before with nothing....BUT they didn't stop staying regular. My mom and I kept track and timed them. At around 10pm I decided to call Labor and Delivery and ask their advice (yeah...I was one of those that seriously doubted I would know when I went into labor). Since I couldn't really speak thru one of the contractions, they advised to come in. I was checked (still at 2cm) just before 11pm. I was advised to either go home or walk around for 2 hours and get checked again. We opted to walk around and come back. Thank goodness! Because 1/2 hour later my contractions were one minute apart and coming strong. I didn't even know if I would make it back to the L&D....when they checked me again I had gotten to 3cm...but because of my contractions, they admitted me anyways. I got set up in my room (which turned out to be room 3!) and as they got paperwork done, the contractions did not let up. Around 2:30am I was given an epidural (hallelujah!) and when I was laying down, my water broke! So, I now know what it is like to "go into labor" and to have my water break. Interesting experiences. I think my favorite part was that my legs went completely numb and useless. I had no control over them things and it was strange to know my leg fell and I could do nothing about it!

I pretty much slept from 3am to 9am...not much to report there. I guess that pretty much every other preggo lady went into labor that same night because it got really busy. Had I started this process even a few hours later, I would not have been admitted OR I wouldn't have had a room. So, Heavenly Father really was watching out for me.

Sometime around 10am I was told I was "at a nine" and it would be any moment then. Along with the doctor on duty, a resident doc stood in to watch the procedure. The more the merrier?!? At that point, it really is...whatever. Oh yeah, and both male. I started pushing at 10:38am. I think the doc was just trying to stay positive and help out, but he did say that I was really good at pushing considering this was my first. And boy did it work! I thought I was just so neato. I had to "keep up the good work."

Lydia was born at 11:05am on December 24, 2009. She came out with her face towards my right perfectly asleep. All during her cleaning and examination she slept. The nurse had to really work to get her to cry at all! They were all quite impressed. There really is something magical about seeing the baby you have been carrying for 9.5 months actually right in front of you. I cried. I cried because it was finally over...I cried because she was the most beautiful baby I ever saw...I cried because daddy was half-way around the world...I cried because Heavenly Father has chosen me to be her mother and I felt so very blessed...I cried hoping I would not let her or HF down. She measured 8.5lbs and 21 inches. She was absolutely perfect.

The first picture is from the hospital. Then, talking to daddy on the phone! The rest she is either 4 or 5 days old. What a cutie!

No such luck

Ok...so I am here in the Ramada Inn with my mom getting some relaxation before the chaos comes. We walk the mall, do some window shopping, and take naps in the afternoon. It has been great! I love the conversations with my mom. I feel like such an important person with opinions that matter. So much fun. Plus, I will be able to remember that I took a nap once...and that will help me survive until I can take a nap again.

The boyz when with Gma Lynne to AZ...and have been doing very well. I think she is keeping them busy so they don't really notice that I am not there. They play with cousins (yeah...I want them to know their cousins!) and got to go to the mall and just are having a ball. The separation is good for both me and for those lil boyz.

And, Lydia has not decided to make her debut yet...I think that she will come pretty easily on Christmas Day. The doctor says that I am pretty good for delivery induction in a few days. I am eager to get some pictures posted to remember.....lots of information coming soon!

Preggo Journal Wk 38

I really can't believe I have made it this far! I feel so big and awkward. I can't post much detail yet about daddy leaving yet, so suffice it to say that he is gone and we are all still ok. Lydia is cooking for a long time!

The doc said a few days ago that I am 2 cm and looking good to do a VBAC...so I am happy. Now I face the boyz being gone on Monday without be. But I know they will be in good hands, so I am not worried. About a week until I am induced...crazy if I make that far! Thank goodness for mommies of all kind who help me out! My mom is staying with me until I have Lydia. She will be here probably late Friday...Devin's mom (and dad!) are helping soooooooo much with the move and caring for my boyz. It is such a relief to know they will be taken care of! And so many other mommies in our ward that are helping watch the boyz and just being so supportive.

More to come! I will take a picture before I deliver so we can all see the "end" preggo picture.

A few months review

We have been doing so much in preparation for daddy to be gone...lots of family time, that I really haven't posted a lot (except for preggo journal)...and I wanted to make sure to document what else we have been doing the past 3 months.

Daddy plays on the bed with them and rough houses...because I can't. Lots of snuggling and cuddling and watching shows on tv with daddy. So many different positions to watch the telly! Matthew gets into pretty much everything to make messes - piano, paint, movies, silverware...you name it! Granted, he is just following directly behind his older brother! What a dynamic duo. So funny together.

SEEEEE...I really AM bigger!

This is me preggo (38 weeks) with Matthew:

This is me preggo (37 weeks) with Lydia:

I know that the shots are different, but one thing has pretty much remained constant.

Preggo Journal Wk 27 - Photo

According to BabyCenter.com....and the doc...I am officially "full term". Well, as far as not really worrying if Lydia comes out now. Doc estimates Lydia being around 7 lbs now. Also, I weigh in around 184.5 lbs. Not bad. If I remember correctly I started around 145 lbs...

My back hurts all the time (still) and I have found it getting more difficult to walk without either falling forward - I jut way out there - or feeling like I am walking and trying to lay backwards. I knock Matthew over all the time. Poor kid...gets hurt with or without my help. Sleeping is now becoming rather annoying. I want to sleep, but feel like I am about to rip off my tummy when I try to get comfortable (comfort...what's that again?)

As the time practically slips through our fingers for daddy to be here when Lydia comes, I am getting a little bit more restless. Daddy leaves in a matter of days and we "move" in a week! I worry about throwing so much at the lil boyz already and how they will handle things should they need to leave for AZ without me. Heck, I worry about ME being without my boyz if they head out to AZ without me. But most of all, I worry about going through delivery without my husband's hand and soothing voice and calming spirit. It is my prayer that Heavenly Father won't ask me to go through that particular trial, but if he does...I will make Him pleased with me.

Didn't know I had 2 doggies.....

Well, I didn't know that we have two lil doggies! I thought we had two lil boyz!

They just started doing this thinking that they were so neato...and I finally got it on film! Obviously there used to be some kind of doggie door installed into the garage...who knew that little boyz would find this more fascinating then practically anything else. I really just crack up seeing their little faces disappear into the "darkness" of the garage. What a bunch of goobers! Gotta love it!

Oh messy time!

It seems like when I have the energy, all I do is clean up after the messes my children make. Now there are the simple messes I clean up after them: like (1) cereal that has been stepped on and is now ground into the carpet (2) the water splish splashed on the floor because they were playing with the water cooler (3) chopped up pretzels (with table knives...naturally) and stepped on into powder that spans three rooms (4) lip balm they dug out of the tube and creatively wiped on the walls and their lips (5) the cardboard box they stabbed to death (yup, with table knives...again) and is in pieces (6) and the obvious one: the toys they pick up for about a second but that second is long enough to drag every toy and seemingly cover every square inch of carpet.

But this morning I cleaned up a not so simple mess. Things like this have happened before...the entire contents of the syrup bottle squeezed onto the table and running to the floor. Or mommy's shampoo squeezed into the shower. And yes, the kid soap or bubble bath squeezed into one bath. BUT this is annoying:

So, can I claim this as "creative art time?"

Preggo Journal Wk36

Well, I made it thus far...yippee! I had a doctor appt and got my membranes "swept" (just sounds better then the other word)...actually I just a rather "rough" cervix check...as far as the paperwork is concerned. That happened Thurs noonish. Well, all afternoon and evening I had contractions that were 5 min apart...for about 7 hours. But since they "slowed" down when I laid down I didn't go to Labor and Delivery. Plus, Devin wasn't home and I didn't want to go in for it just to be false. Oh, and if I get admitted into the Hospital and then discharged again I have to fill out the registration packet again. Dumb.

I was able to tour the Labor and Delivery today. Pretty nice. Except there is NO NURSERY! How on earth am I going to survive!?! Of course, with Matthew I was recovering from a c-section so maybe that is different. Hopefully we won't have a repeat of that!

It appears that there are so many details that are "right" this weekend that I hope I have my water break tomorrow morning (because that is obvious I am in labor....obvious is good) because we can get a good night's rest tonight and hopefully since daddy has 2 days off for sure and could get 2 off next week and then the 4 days before deployment...that is a lot of good time with family. The good news is that I think I passed my mucus plug today...went walking around the mall...and I am doing pretty good with contractions happening a lot, so hopefully the timing is perfect for Lydia to come to the world. Oh please oh please!

Lydia...come out!