The Cheesiest Reeds

2011-01-28T19:31:00.003-08:00

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2011-01-28T19:31:00.001-08:00

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Remember I moved....come visit on the blog!

2010-11-12T21:14:00.001-08:00

Please follow my new blog www.lil-LIZ-bits.com

Great things are comin!

A Mother's Dream Come TRUE!!!

2010-06-16T21:06:00.000-07:00

After months of work and lots of irritation in trying to get these little boyz a workin...it totally paid off tonight when I got out the vacuum and Nathan took over! Matthew wanted to clean too so he used the small dust buster. I think we will make this a "daily" chore (or as close to daily as possible) to get them used to cleaning. That way there is not heavy vacuuming to do, and Nathan will have a better chance of helping keep things clean..

THEN, a few weeks ago now, I had the boyz "mop" the kitchen floor. After I swept it, we brought out bowls with some water in them and some scrubbers. Granted, the floor was basically a puddle, but they scrubbed! We then put small hand-towels (I had a big towel) and pretended to be trains to mop up the water. I have to say that the floor actually looked pretty dang good! Maybe a weekly chore?

Letter to Daddy

2010-05-30T15:35:00.000-07:00

Even though it is now almost the end of Daddy's deployment, we have been working hard at Nathan's letters in the alphabet and drawing pictures for Daddy. Well, today, the boyz drew pictures for Daddy and Nathn addressed the envelope to mail his letter to Daddy.

I have to say that this is just about the cutest thing ever! So sad that I didn't make a copy of the actual letter that he wrote to Daddy that we already mailed. I will have to get that later.

The Corner...

2010-05-28T21:10:00.000-07:00

I have tried so very many things to help aid my boyz in learning the fine art of obeying Mommy. Some things have worked and most have not...but the thing that really works these days is standing in the corner. I make them put their noses right in there and not move. Unfortunately it works best when I sit RIGHT there to enforce this concept.

As you can plainly see...eventually I win.

Nathan's Writing

2010-03-26T11:44:00.000-07:00

Nathan went to school yesterday and I just knew it was going to be a good day! We have been practicing his name and this is what he wrote:

Ok...so I am probably just the proud mama...but this is the best he has ever done and so consistent! I definately want Daddy to be able to see what Nathan was able to do! He would be soooooooo proud!!! Then before school, Nathan remembered (on his own) that he needed to brush his teeth...and then brushed his teeth all by himself....ahhhh!

I built it!....with some help.

2010-03-03T06:17:00.000-08:00

I bought the boyz new dressers...well, they really hadn't had one. The one they totally outgrew was given to Lydia. It was from Gma Lynne and Gpa Lon...so it is very broken in. Anyways, long story short, Gma Lynne came out to help me put them together. We only got one done...but WE got one done! I just thought I would document the experience. This is what I thought:

1. We opened the box and both said...that is a LOT of pieces!

2. Neither of us wanted to count the screws....didn't know if we could count that high...JJ!

3. The foam inside had to be quickly removed because the boyz thought it made good "snow"

4. Thanks to Aunt Ruth for taking them away for a while

5. It is hard to feed a baby at the same time, so thanks to Gma Lynne!!!

6. Sometimes two hands just weren't enough

7. The instruction packet was just way too big...why didn't it just come assembled?

8. My thumb hurts from the weird screws...I didn't want a callus on my thumb

AND

9. I like that I finished it...BUT I look forward to men doing what I don't want to do!!! Thanks in advance...Dad...Gpa Lon!

Yes...I wanted to stab it....but it sure looks purdy!

Smiles

2010-02-27T19:39:00.000-08:00

Not that we have really been up to much...just getting settled into life and a routine. Here is just a bit about what we are doing around these parts! Can't help but smile through life sometimes!

Oh...scroll down to read some exciting news!

The biggest news of all right now is that Matthew is not only interested in the toilet, but he has used the toilet about 50% of the time! The last 2 days...he even went #2...both days! I thought about taking a picture of it...for Daddy's sake...but then thought better of myself. And, yes, he has graduated to "big boy diapers" during the day! Yippeee!!!! I sure hope that this keeps going and just gets better!!!!!

Believe it or not, but this is the exact shape that Matthew's yogurt spilled in. I got that "gogurt" stuff and froze them. Then it seems like a popsicle. Anywho...this was the mess he left behind. I think it is rather poetic....

Every picture has a story

2010-02-26T19:53:00.000-08:00

This is the first day that I met Hunter...Ruth and Joel's little boy. I love the candid shots and couldn't seem to stop taking pictures. I absolutely adore the funny face he is making. We, as people, aren't always picture perfect all the time and that is what makes us all unique and interesting. These days, Hunter will come to me and give me a kiss and then a hug...what a doll! I think Ken is holding him in this picture. Also, this is the day that Grandma Valerie bought Mikayla her used to be pretty table. The menfolk are busy putting the table together as this picture was taken.

I tag Ruth. (So this is actually funny because I choose Ruth before I opened my pic folders...funny that this would be the picture to pop up!!!)

1. Open your first picture folder.

2. Upload the 10th picture in the folder (if there aren't 10, go to the next folder with 10 pictures in it).

3. Tell us the story behind the picture.

4. Tag at least 1 friend to do the same.

"No way is this happening...."

2010-02-10T11:19:00.000-08:00

Big shocker, I went to bed "early" last night...around 10:30pm. Slept pretty well (back has been hurting a bit) until 3:30am when Lydia woke up and ate. We got settled back into bed just after 4am when I hear this beeping sound. Yeah...it was the smoke detector indicating the battery was low. So, I set Lydia down (I like to sleep with her for a bit after she eats :-) It is our special cuddle time! I can tell she is still awake and sneezing...but I don't worry about that.

So...in the dark of the morning...I venture out to the hallway to see which smoke detector decided to be annoying. You guessed it...it was the one on the highest vaulted ceiling. I rolled my eyes, shook my head, and spoke under my breath saying..."No way is this happening....now!"

Well, I have to get the huge ladder from our garage and oh so quietly try to move the rings high enough to get up there...let me just tell you that the ceiling was really high up there! But I got the battery out...and decided to not put another battery inside. I didn't know how old or used our batteries were...and I just knew it would start beeping again...my luck, right?

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

2010-02-09T12:10:00.001-08:00

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

2010-01-29T11:33:00.000-08:00

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

2010-01-23T12:16:00.000-08:00

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!

2010-01-21T11:05:00.000-08:00

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

2010-01-12T14:31:00.000-08:00

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

2010-01-01T21:34:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-29T16:34:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-22T17:09:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-17T19:03:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-17T11:39:00.000-08:00

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!

2009-12-12T07:32:00.001-08:00

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

2009-12-11T08:56:00.000-08:00

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.....

2009-12-09T19:30:00.000-08:00

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!

2009-12-08T12:29:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-04T19:18:00.000-08:00

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!

Going Private

2009-12-01T15:44:00.000-08:00

Yes...it is that time for us. I have come to the realization that the purpose of this blog has changed...OR my reaction to the purpose of this blog has changed. At first, it was for those family members who lived far away to "see" what we are doing and keep up on our lil family. Because those who it was intended for don't comment, I am not sure if they actually keep looking at it. PLUS...I want this to be a place for me to record our family lives. I don't want to be nervous about who is looking and who is not. I want to be free to write about us without concern for reaction (or lack thereof. I want to print this blog and include the comments. Too sad that some of the most important people have not commented. It would have been nice for the boyz.

So, yes, we will be going private before baby Lydia is born. NO pictures will be posted of her until we are private. So, without further ado...post a comment or send an email to: lilizbit3033@yahoo.com with a request to be included and be invited to view our blog once private. The deadline date is: MON DECEMBER 7, 2009 @ 8pm (CA time).

Thank you for those who have participated and wish to continue.

Preggo Journal Wk 35 - Photo

2009-11-27T19:01:00.000-08:00

So, since it has only been a few days since my last journal entry, my big question is: Have I "dropped"? Mom says I have, I felt I did (before I saw her this morning)....so, to Ruth: what do YOU think? Since you can't be here now, I wanted to show you so that you could get in the opinion action.
BTW- I am completely miserable.....I want Lydia OUT!!! Maybe she will have already learned how to follow directions and will come when I ask her to???? We shall see.

Our Boyz are growing UP!

2009-11-23T17:36:00.000-08:00

So many things happen so fast, and then they are followed by longer days of seemingly NOTHING that goes on. So here is the update on the boyz:

Nathan:
He is pretty much obsessed with his sword collection. He (and yes, now Matthew) love to run around with their swords and play together. They are very proud!

Nathan doesn't really take a "scheduled" nap these days...he is sorta in between. There are days where I can tell he NEEDS one because he gets cranky, but then his night sleep is interrupted and shorter - so he ends up with less sleep overall. So, if he falls asleep we let him sleep wherever he is and if he does sleep, then great, he just goes to bed at 8 and wakes up between 6:30 and 7am.

Preschool is amazing for Nathan. His teacher says he is so very social and follows directions every time and has only had a "warning" once. He plays with everyone - no one gets left out. And since he is basically repeating every week (meaning it is a T/Th and W/F - so what they do on T he does again on W...etc) he has the same excitement level for the activities every time. I am very proud of him and so happy that he is doing so very well for others.

Matthew:

The big news for this one is that he was moved into a "big boy" bed 2 days ago. Last week he start the beginnings of crawling out of the crib. I was standing right there, so he didn't actually finish the job. So, we set up the bed on Sat - morning. We could tell that Matthew was just so VERY excited about his new bed. He practiced going "ni ni" all day. I was worried he wouldn't get in the covers and would fall out while he slept (he moves so darn much!). But he took a nap perfectly that day - didn't get out once and slept for 2 hours. He has also spent both nights in there wonderfully! Sleeping 11 hours each night. So cute when they get out of bed. He doesn't appear scared at all. Both boyz are obsessed with "playing on the bed" and now they have 2!

I absolutely love the way Matthew pronounces Nathans name: sounding it out like: "nay nah". Matthew adores Nathan and is always pointing him out and becomes incredibly sad when they are apart. They really are like 2 peas in a pod. Each gets concerned when the other cries and while they can get on each others nerves they can giggle together for hours. So very grateful that they get a long and help mommy.

Preggo Journal Wk33-34.5 - Photo

2009-11-23T17:17:00.000-08:00

I know that it has been WAY too long, but I have an explaination. For the end of week 33...I couldn't find my camera to take a picture. And then Devin started his "POM" - don't ask because I have forgotten what it stands for. Basically it is the scheduled leave before deployment. So, Devin had the last 9 days off, and thus I didn't do much of anything but be with him and the boyz. SO, now here I am. I also had a doc appt today, so there is some info to report too. Here goes

I feel like a huge house. My back constantly aches and is annoying. My belly is stretching and I itch to HIGH heavens. Nothing seems to work. Perscription anti-itch doesn't help. My belly button is sore...so I think I am in for another growth spurt. My contractions (I guess just the Braxton Hicks) are spuratically constant...they will come about like this for 6-7 hours at a time: every 5 min, 10, 4, 11, 5, 5, 5, 20, 5, 10...etc. The doc said that this is good because then my body is preparing for delivery...now THAT topic opens a can of worms.

Since I am due New Year's Eve...Daddy won't be here for delivery...so I only have a small window of opportunity for family to be here or come and help. And with my moving to AZ, that only complicates the matter further. SO, the doc decided to see me weekly and will be stripping my membranes on Dec 3...I will be 36 weeks that day. It is good for a VBAC...which would be most convienient...but then to help my poor planning mind, she scheduled an induction for Christmas Day. So, we shall see!

Preggo Journal Wk 32

2009-11-06T18:21:00.001-08:00

I wish I could report that this week was better and that it was uneventful, but I wouldn't be keeping an acurate journal of my pregnancy and the surrounding experiences that effect me (and Lydia).

This week we had Halloween, the pre-deployment breifing, and the first half of my trip to TX to see my step-bro get married. Halloween was fine and great...I have commented about this in a previous post. Ever since the briefing I have been a wreck every now and again. About daily in no consistent timeframe I would just start bawling thinking about the daunting task in front of me. I am "pre-missing" my husband and trying to decide the specifics about when, where, and how this little Lydia of mine will be brought into the world. Most of the time I am at the brink of tears spilling over and any mention about the baby can take me over the edge.

I traveled to Texas with Ruth (sister) on Tuesday. Somehow we made it on the plane...(Thanks Lynn and Judy for helping!!!! - Our mommy-in-laws) just the two of us and our 4 children. Thankfully, Matthew fell asleep literally while we were taking off. Nathan and Mikayla played a lot...didn't watch a movie like we wanted, BUT...and Hunter was pretty good for Ruth.

Long story short, I have 100% decided that Texas is not an option any longer for moving to after Lydia is born. There have been too many time in 2 days that I have been irritated and felt belittled and completely judged, so I am working on the particulars about when, where, and how to deliver and then the particulars on moving to AZ. The specifics on my experiences here will be documented elsewhere.

I have had more contractions and "scares" this week and have definately worked more then when I am at home. I didn't 1. I expect it 2. anticipate it or 3. Know how to deal with it. I hope I am not worn out for when we travel back to AZ on Sun.

Oh little Lydia, I am so very attached to you. If anything ever went wrong I can't imagine the devestation and anger towards anyone I might feel. Please stay safely where you are and come at the best time! I love you.

Halloween Together

2009-10-31T11:48:00.001-07:00

Halloween is not necessarily my favorite holiday. But this year was pretty fun. Nathan was old enough to basically know what was going on, Matthew likes to follow Nathan, and daddy was home. Daddy was his usual...Indiana Jones. Nathan was Venom (Black Spiderman....dun dun dun) and Matthew was Superman. I couldn't get him to wear the cape. It was enough of a crying tantrum fit to get him into the costume in the first place. I can't believe I actually got a picture with all 3 posing! They were so cute going Trick of Treating!

At Nathan's preschool, he got to use paint and make a pumpkin! It is actually a little bag that they went "trick or treating" with. He got just a few candies, but he was just so proud of his little self!

I think I look forward to next year...1. won't be pregnant! 2. I might even decorate! 3. Daddy will be home (cross our fingers) 4. More intricate costumes? 5. 2 boyz who will know what Halloween is about.....and 6. A girl to goosy up!

Preggo Journal Wk31

2009-10-29T12:22:00.000-07:00

This week has absolutely FLOWN BY!! Depressing only because I have 6.5 weeks left with Devin here. I am getting more and more nervous about the delivery. I really don't like surprises...unless I initiate them. I like change, yes, but this is different. I can't help but hope she comes early, but then I want her to stay in there and be safe and healthy. My biggest fear now is being in the delivery room alone. I just know that no matter what, I will bawl in the delivery room. So many unknowns that I can't control. *sigh*

On a happier note, Lydia is doing well. She moves a lot and even seems to play with us. Devin will poke her, and she will poke back! I think she really likes the sound of Daddy's voice because she will move whenever she first hears him. So cute! A daddy's girl already!!! She will have him wrapped around her finger in no time. Watch out daddy!

My back doesn't hurt as much...but I can feel my stretchmarks stretching. I am more clumbsy...tired at night...ready to sit or lay down at a moments notice.

Week 32...bring it on! Traveling to TX to see Roman married off. Yup, going by myself with Ruth and her two kids (daddy will fly in Sat-fly out Sun). I must be nuts!

IIIIII'mm baaaaaack!

2009-10-24T09:44:00.001-07:00

I have been feeling rather hum drum for a while...you will remember my quandry with my hair and the Navy Ball, right? Well, I have been completely fed up with this hairy mess on my head. So much that I went to a friend and asked that she make me beautiful again. I gave her a pic, and she completely transformed me. She kept asking if I would miss the length, and I just said, "NO!"

After doing my hair, all I could think was: There I am! I'm back! What do you think

BTW - It is really hard to take a good picture of myself by myself, so this is what you get!

Preggo Journal Wk30 - With Pic

2009-10-24T09:34:00.000-07:00

Most of the time I can't believe I made it this far without...you know...I'm still pregnant with a baby! At this point, I feel a bit more like I have passed the "danger zone"...which is comforting. Granted, I have a ways to go, but I am not constantly worried she will die. Sure, I worry a little. Who doesn't?

I rest a lot, but then I still do the things I need to: ie - Play with boyz, cuddle with boyz, kiss my boyz, mostly cook for boyz, clean up after boyz (usually later then I normally would), cuddle with boyz, take boyz to park, cuddle with boyz, kiss the boyz, and most important...cudlle with boyz!

I am getting the Braxton Hicks contractions a lot lately...last night they were pretty constant. I almost went to L&D...but decided to see if they went into the night. Plus, Devin wasn't home and I didn't want to call someone. She should be going through a growth spurt soon. Oh belly joy! I have a doc appt in 3 days, so we shall see what the doc says. Plus I am getting ready to travel to TX for a wedding. I hope the kids do well. Portable DVD players...gotta love em!

The clumsey Liz has certainly come in full force! I fell over a laundry basket a few days ago. I knew the laundry was of the devil! Hee hee.

So, you think I am getting BIG yet?

Preggo Journal Wk 29

2009-10-17T20:43:00.000-07:00

I will start with the good news. I FINALLY got a phone message from my obgyn stating that I have elevated protien but it is nothing to worry about right now. So, I do not have preeclampsia. (*sigh*) I am assuming that because of the "scare" I will be tested more often...oh well.

I took my 1 hour glucose test on Fri. Since I failed Matthew's...I kinda assume I will fail with Lydia. Not looking forward to the 3 hour one...I would have to fast. Also, I had to do Matthew's 3 hour test twice...ugg! I will report later for that one.

Funny story. Imagine waking up at 5 am from being splashed with water! Well, that happened this morning. Apparently I fell asleep holding my opened water bottle and...well, the rest is...wet. If I remember right, this is the second time this has happened. Too funny!

I am getting too big to lay on the couch with the boyz cuddling up to me :-( And, I am getting awfully hot all the time! No one else seems to be as hot. I guess my bun in the oven turned up the temperature!

Oh, and she has become a "twirler" from about 10 pm to midnight. I swear she is spinning! If I am already asleep by then (ha!) then I don't mind...otherwise, I am kept awake. What a booger!

Is there any meaning?

2009-10-15T10:19:00.000-07:00

Nathan has been going to a preschool with the city...totally loves it! One of their little art projects and topics of the day was about animals with an emphasis on the kids pets. Now, we don't have any pets. They take too much work right now (not to mention that we have terrible luck with finding mentally stable animals). I should mention that he goes 4 days a week...the Wed is a repeat of Tue and the Fri is a repeat of Thurs. He knows his stuff, but I want him to learn to do things artistically (ie: color, draw, etc.) and get some social interaction with other kids. The repeat days there is a new group of kids. Totally worth it.

The first day he brought this picture home:

The second day he brought this picture home:

Now.....whenever he is verbally asked about his pets at home he responds that he has a dog. Sometimes it is two dogs. My question.....is kthis somehow a subconcious desire to have a pet cat (most other kids choose dogs to put in their pet house) or did he let the other kids have what they want because he doesn't care? Hmmmm....thoughts?

Preggo Journal Wk28

2009-10-11T20:00:00.001-07:00

I am so very uncomfortable...and it is still early in the "game".....My doc said I had high blood pressure (something like 147/93ish) and ordered a test...a urine bucket. I totally laughed when she said it. It was disgusting, but for 24 hours I collected the "specimen" and turned it in Friday. I am hoping that the results will be to my doctor where I can call on Mon/Tue and see what my protein levels were. From my online research....I guess the test was for Pre-eclampsia. Not good. Then of course the worries come in about Lydia's health and wellbeing. Then come the concerns of my sanity and ability to be a mommy to the boyz and be a good home for Lydia as she grows.

This kid is definately my offspring...she moves as tho she is dancing to the beat of her own drummer...and that drummer is constantly playing whatever suits her fancy. Last night I was actually wakened by her movements. Thankfully I was able to fall back asleep easily. I fear for my future sleep. If necessary, I will be holding a public funeral for my passing sleep and will write a eulogy...maybe we will have a contest....:-) Gotta have somthing fun to look forward to when the times get tough!!!

Turned 30 and getting depressed!

2009-10-10T08:21:00.001-07:00

So my "golden" birthday was this year. I turned 30 on Sept 30th. I am SO happy to be 30. I really don't mind growing older and what this really means for me is that I feel like others will take me more seriously. With age comes some degree of wisdom and I hope that I will be able to demonstrate through action and speech that I am someone people can and should listen to. I have always had a "complex" that I look sooo much younger then I really am, and I think therefore, I have always acted so much younger. In a business atmosphere...(this is basically what I would say in my head) "why should anyone pick me when they could pick...someone else?"

In other words: YEAH I AM 30!!!! This is a very good thing for me!!!!

But....you see it is tradition that I get myself a Dairy Queen icecream cake (I like them because there is no cake inside). Well, I also usually get it on my sister Ruth's birthday (6 days later). So here is a picture of our celebration cake:

The depressing news is that the cake is almost gone! I know that this may not seem like it...but this single solitary event of the disappearing cake is a very tragic one that deserves a moment of silence......

Maybe I will get another cake and extend the celebration just a bit longer!!!

Random Boyness

2009-10-07T19:50:00.000-07:00

So there are too many random boy things that happen around here, that I decided to condense and blog about them here.

Nathan:
1. Could be transitioning out of naptime :-(
2. Fell asleep mid ice cream cone...yes, it was melting in his lap!
3. Plays with just about everyone at his preschool...so social.
4. Loves playing with swords. Often uses table butter knives as a substitute sword.
5. Helps load the washing machine.
6. Begs to look in the pot while I cook. Maybe he will grow up and cook us dinner!
7. Prefers watermelon toothpaste over strawberry toothpaste.
8. Decided that he wants privacy (door closed) as he uses the toilet for #2.
9. Will come into bed with mommy in the morning and sleep about another hour or longer.
10. Tells everyone that Lydia is coming and inside mommy.
11. Begs daddy to read to him but won't sit still for mom.
12. Constantly wants to watch Scooby Doo or Dora the Explorer.
13. Still throws his head back to laugh.
14. Jumps off his dresser and has started to spin while rapidly decending to the floor.
15. Correctly picks out his name (and can usually spell it) on a name tag for preschool.
16. Successfully broke 3 out of the 5 slats on his bed. I don't know what is holding it up right now!

Matthew:
1. Started sticking his hands in his diaper when he has pooped.
2. Still sucks his thumb...and only the left one.
3. Calls his teddy bear blanket "bun".
4. Follows Nathan around like a little puppy.
5. Stomps his feet like Nathan to show his shoes lighting up.
6. Most of his ramblings are still undistinguishable...but his eyes plead and makes you melt!
7. Uses important phrases with Nathan - "stop" and "go away"
8. Places the couch cushions on the floor and then jumps off the couch. Oh so proud of himself.
9. Actually wiped his face off with a wipey...got the chin too!
10. Snuggles with me on the couch...and watches tv.
11. Likes to touch my mole on my neck...giggles when he thinks he is tickling me.
12. Doesn't like showers...but will take a bath if he can fill and empty soda bottles.
13. Can still out eat us all with eggs.
14. Throws his own diaper in the garbage after each change.
15. Constantly asks for snacks and no matter what doesn't like to eat at meal time.
16. When walking with him and holding his hand, he will have spurts of "running time".

These boyz are growing so fast and just so eager to grow up. I wish that I could snuggle with them for all time and keep them just the way they are! I want to keep them in the cuddly stage for all time so I can selfishly snuggle and cuddle and tickle and snuggle and snuggle and snuggle all day everyday!

Preggo Journal Wk 27

2009-10-01T15:43:00.001-07:00

My goodness! This week took forrrrrrever! And yet, now that it is done, I can't believe it has passed!

I had a scare on Saturday. To preface, I got a cough Thursday night that just left my belly tired...I felt sorry for Lydia. Hopefully she thinks the jiggling is just a ride. Then on Saturday, at 11am, I suddenly couldn't breathe. I was litterally gasping for breath and wheezing. I felt like I was breathing thru a straw. My chest felt like someone was squeezing it and sitting on it. I later went to Labor and Delivery (soooo didn't want to go to the ER - and I used my preg as an excuse to see a doc!). Well, they were NO HELP! One lady there thought I was there to deliver (do I really look that big?). I guess the doctors there just assumed that the baby was pressing on my diaphragm and that I was just complaining about it. I guess I just didn't make that much of a fuss about how I was feeling. Dumb doctors sometimes....assuming to much. I explained everything to my mom...and she said it sounded like an asthma attack. That is what I thought too.

Well, I had my doc appt yesterday. Everything is good for baby. When I described my experience...she said, "Sounds like asthma...do you have an inhaler?" I said no (theoretically I have an albuterol inhaler of Matthew's - and I am going to my reg primary doc on Fri so I wasn't worried). Believe it or not, that was the end of the conversation. Arrrggg!

I think she is having more "regular" times to be awake and asleep. A few times I tried to move her and wake her up to give me comfort that she was ok, and man alive she scared me! I am sleeping really well this week (except when Nathan or Matthew make a sound - but that is decreasing). I don't seem to notice when Devin wakes up, turns on a light, shaves, showers, or anything. He does kiss my goodbye every morning! Ahhhh....thankfully I can fall back asleep quickly. I feel bad sleeping and resting so much. But my hard work is also working inside me...so I don't worry too much!

Thru the eyes of a Nathan

2009-09-25T11:23:00.000-07:00

Ok, so Nathan has a new "hobby" where he LOVES taking pictures. Not wanting to shut down a possibility for him...he uses my camera and walks around the house. It is very interesting to see what he deems as "picture worthy" and to see the world from his viewpoint. I want to have some kind of proof about the things he does in his early years...maybe it will make a difference later on...maybe not. He is actually getting quite good at taking pictures of people, but we can work on that later.

Thinking that a good Birthday or Christmas present would be a camera...not a "kid" one that is a toy, but a real camera....outdated but digital that is just his. So we shall see! Here is a collage of his "work":

Foto Flashback Friday 8

2009-09-25T11:00:00.000-07:00

If anyone knows me...this is definately a "precurser" to who I am today. I also liked reading about how (and now knowing when) I had stiches on my noggin. I remember my parents saying I came to them crying with blood everywhere...sometime later I would fall on a floor vent and also came running, crying, and bloody...and because of this experience written here, they were afraid I had cut my head open again. I guess I was really good at scaring my mom and getting injuries a lot. Hmmm...

I don't have a picture for this one...if I get one later, I will be sure to post. It is amazing how we actually "make it" and survive our childhood!

Preggo Journal Wk 25/26 - Photo

2009-09-24T07:49:00.000-07:00

A pretty good couple of weeks for pregnancy. Kinda boring. Lydia is moving a lot and she still seems to know when I need reassurance that she is ok because she will move for me. My belly does the "wave" sometimes as she is moving and stretching around in there. I love it!

My back is still annoying. I wish I could put an order in for a new one! With the extra weight of my belly, I feel like I am leaning backwards when I walk. I am using the backbrace sent by my sis-in-law. It is better then nothing. Now that I am using it...I can tell a difference when I don't wear it. Don't have the money for a different or new one, so it will have to do! My next doc appt is next Wed (My birthday!!!!!).

Oh...I may have started some insomnia. I have been awake until as late as 2:30am 4 times in the last 2 weeks. Somehow I make it the next day...usually with a nap, but I don't mind! Nathan started preschool this week (TOTALLY loves it! I knew he would...both the learning and the social interaction.). He is going for 3 hours a day...4 days a week. I like it because he is developing and because I get some good time with just Matthew. Sure, I am supposed to be cleaning during this time...but...

How to Make a Brother GROW!

2009-09-16T20:39:00.000-07:00

I found the boyz playing in the back yard...and thought it was just priceless. I later asked Nathan what he was doing and he commented that he was helping his brother grow...we need a garden!

Preggo Journal Wk 24

2009-09-10T17:04:00.000-07:00

So, firstly, I am quite excited to have made it thus far in my pregnancy. Lydia moves all the time and is a great comfort that I can still keep somewhat up with my boyz and she is ok. She responds very actively when I lay on my side - just like Matthew did. There was one day that I thought she would just pop right out of my belly she was moving so much...my tummy was like a bowl full of jello.

I feel awkward when I walk already! I totally waddle!!! Devin says it is a cute waddle, so I guess I am still ok...hee hee. Three more weeks until my next doc appt. I guess we will consult about my previous c-section and what my options are and what things to expect.

The really fun news is that I was laying on the couch one day while Matthew was napping and Nathan had gotten up. Lydia was moving around and I put Nathan's hand on my tummy, and he felt her move (a pretty big one too!). At the time, he didn't seem at all interested, but since then he is always coming to my tummy to give Lydia a hug or to try and feel her move. He tells her that he loves her and keeps asking if she will come out soon. Adorable! I think that Nathan is getting used to having Matthew as a playmate (they reeeeaaaalllly play well together now) and is excited to get another "follower of Nathan".

As for me....I am greatly looking forward to another little neck to smother and cuddle up to. I have been blessed enough to train both boyz to be cuddlers - that I look forward to completing my "cuddle rounds" with each lil kiddo. My kids really are perfect....for ME!!!

For 10 years...

2009-09-03T16:09:00.000-07:00

Today is our 10 year anniversary. Devin has duty on the ship today and tonight...BUT gets a 4 day weekend. We are going to visit family and hopefully get a date!!!! Get this...WITHOUT the kids!!!

So, in tribute to a "most excellent adventure" with my eternal companion....(in no particular order)

FOR 10 YEARS...

I have appreciated your work ethic and ability to get any job done that you start. Long after I get tired and want to take a break...you are still working diligently to ensure your family is taken care of and protected. You are a stronger person then I am!
I have been grateful for your priesthood and worthiness to administer to those who are in need. The priesthood has been a testimony builder and strength for me and has been a wonderful blessing to your family's life.
We have adored each other and been able to be affectionate and passionate about the love we share. So glad that we still act like newlyweds!
We have been able to laugh together, with each other, and because of each other! Laughter is such a wonderful thing that we have been able to share.
We have worked side by side to secure and protect a future for ourselves and our family. Without the contributions we each have given...we wouldn't be as strong or dynamic in our fantabuwonderful relationship.
We have dreamed of our future and made plans to get everything for each other that can be possible. Dreaming of our life together is amazing because it comes true everyday!
We have made decisions and choices that others may not understand...but we have been truely blessed because of our ability to act upon our decisions.
We have experienced sorrows that we have been able to endure because of each other and the guidance of our faith and desire to do right.
We have experienced joy beyond measure as we both commit to following God's plan for us.
I have marveled at our love! Who would have thought that we would love each other more intensely then the day we married? Oh happy days!!!!

10 great points for 10 wonderful years! I look forward to what the future holds for us as a couple and for our family. Devin, it is my desire that you know how your example of loving me is so important for our children. Thank you for showing me every day that you love me AND letting me be a part of your heart and soul! Lots of love!

Preggo Journal Wk 23

2009-09-03T07:43:00.000-07:00

What a good week! So glad that the time is passing and that Lydia is moving more steadily so I can feel her. But I am sad that time is passing because then I will have to do this alone. But, really, I don't think about that....very often! Instead of just feeling kicks and flutters from Lydia...I can feel her in two spots at the same time. Maybe she is standing in there? Of all the things in pregnancy, I love the movements the most. Knowing that somehow I am "housing" a little baby and keeping her safe makes me feel like I really matter - which is what people want, right? I take advantage of sleep and rest whenever I can. That way I have strength and energy to keep up with Nathan an Matthew. I am getting into a groove of cooking and cleaning the house. I am fine with it, and Devin is fine with it, so that is all that matters.

So the weird news is that for the past few weeks, Nathan has increased his times of waking up in the middle of the night and walking into our room - my side of the bed - and either 1. Needs his covers back on 2. Wants water or 3. Who knows...but in all 3 situations I just walk him back to bed and he goes back to sleep. I have kept track the last 2 nights. He woke up 5 times last night and 6 times the night before. For anyone out there...any thoughts?

Oh, and we were thinking about a theme for baby Lydia...we want her to be our "Little Lydibug". Isn't that tooo cute!!!!!!

Preggo Journal Wk 22 - Photo

2009-08-29T07:45:00.000-07:00

This was actually a very good week. Busy. Baby Lydia is moving a lot more so it makes it a bit easier to make sure she is still living. Eases my mind! Daddy was able to be home a bit earlier in the daytime because he was in a school that let out early a few days and he was able to play with kiddos as I lay on the couch making sure Lydia moved. Oh how the boyz adore their daddy! I love to watch the 3 of them.

On Saturday we went to the Navy Ball. It was fun getting a goosied up and dressed all fancy. Devin was a hottie...and I have to admit that I was a hottie too! Of course, we were in a rush on the way out (had to eplain to the babysitter how to make Ramen Noodles! What? Plus the kids were a bit shy and I wanted to make sure she was fine with them - showing her all the possible activities and explain what ight clothes went on each kid :-) hee hee. So, Devin was urging me to hurry - and so we didn't get a picture. BUT luckily a new friend couple had a camera and took our picture:

I have to admit that the Ball would have been a WHOLE lot better if I wasn't pregnant and if I really already knew some of the people there. We spent the first hour and a half jammed outside the doors in the lobby while most people drank and talked. I was starving and getting tired on my feet. Dinner was great! Food finally!!! But most of the presentations were boring and in the year review of accomplishments they didn't even mention about all the MCM's coming to San Diego. So about 400 sailors weren't acknowledged! Disappointing.

We didn't make it past 10:30pm. I was plum tuckered out! We got to dance a bit - funny with my belly poking at Devin. Butg that entertainment soon became difficult for anyone to dance to. But by the time the fun started, I was mentally already in bed and my back was sore. So, we left and went to bed. Good times!

Here is a pictures of my belly progress. I am soo huge for only 22 weeks! I can see me later looking and feeling like a beached whale. Ugg!

Nathan's Dental Work

2009-08-27T17:37:00.000-07:00

On Wed (yesterday) both boyz went to the Dentist for their routine dental checkup. For the first time, they did x-rays on Nathan and discovered that he had 6 cavities. All because we didn't focus on flossing! Since the problem was in the lower back molars, we had to get some dental work done. I guess these are the teeth that stay in until he is 10-12 years old. So, today we came back and he had to get 4 fillings and 2 crowns (2 silver caps over his teeth). I think I was so nervous for him. I almost started bawling in the parking lot as we were preparing to go into the dentist's office. He did AMAZING!!! He got some laughing gas and was just so cute. What a very good boy he was!

The dentist was really good and the dental assistant was amazing with Nathan. We have been going to a pediatric dental office and the staff was awesome. As Nathan was preparing for his work to be done, and sitting there with his laughing gas mask on, he was watching a TV cartoon and was saying random things about it...then he started giving his schpeel about how to be a good boy and what was a "no-no" and what makes him a good big boy. So, I guess he is a talker when he is sedated.

He fell asleep during the last 10 min or so and has been asleep ever since (so far almost 2 hours). About half way through I think he got tired and cried so hard he soaked his shirt with sweat. My poor baby! So, lesson learned....FLOSS!!!!!

Random Boyz

2009-08-26T08:54:00.000-07:00

This month we generally just sat around...I mentioned before that we went to AZ.. It has been awhile since I posted something about my toadfart boyz. They are doing very well. Yes, they love and adore to play in the sand/dirt. I think Matthew may like it more tho. I love how they are interacting and playing together! It is just so cute how they giggle and run around together.

OK, so I have to tell the story about the pajamas...the big pictures in the middle. We had a babysitter come (male - absolutely FABULOUS with our boyz.) Funny thing, when we woke up the next morning, I noticed that the sitter had switched the PJ's and put Nathan in Matthew's night clothes! It was so hysterical, I had to take a picture....I wanted to show and see the differences between the two. Also, we had another sitter (female 17)...when we woke up the next morning we noticed that Matthew's diaper was put on backwards! I wonder in what possible way could that have seemed proper and easy to put on....! Ahh, sigh ;-) So, I think we will have some kind of training for sitters. The obvious may not be so obvious.

Matthew these days is talking up a storm and is getting used to snuggling with mommy!!!! He sleeps well and seems to be sporatic in his eating. If he eats a big breakfast, then he won't really eat until the next day's dinner. But he really likes mommy's Slimfast. He is growing so very much and doesn't look like a little baby anymore. When he gets into trouble, he is so very good at giving me the "evil eye" and furrows his eyebrows. When I ask him to come to mommy, he squats a little and inches closer. What a goober!

Nathan is a weirdo (but we all knew that!). No more toilet accidents. He is learning how to play on the computer without much help. He loves to jiggle mommy's tummy and talk about how the baby and mommy are growing. His hands are sooo big! He is such a little man. Every night it seems like he "wakes up" and comes into our room. Generally he will just stand by my side of the bed and just wait for me to wake up. He either wants a drink, help with his covers, or nothing...just walk him back to bed and he is already back to sleep. Sometimes it is really freaky!

Ultrasound Pix!

2009-08-24T11:27:00.001-07:00

So, I totally found the ultrasound pictures...and of course, NOT where I expected them. The CD was in the other stroller but between the shade thing and the cup holder. I am just so darn tootin relieved that I found them!!!! So, without further ado:

I am completely and wholeheartedly in love with this little baby! Doesn't she just have the most perfect lil head?! I adore her kicking inside of me (I know that feeling may change when she is kicking my bladder or some other vital organ or tender spot inside.). As of right now, her name will be Lydia. Still coming up with middle names. Most likely will be Ann (since my middle name is Ann) but if anyone has any suggestions, please let me know! Really....

Here is a video too!

Preggo Journal Wk 20/21

2009-08-20T07:59:00.001-07:00

I spent my week 20 in AZ while Devin was underway. I think that was a bit harder on me then just being at home because they were in a different place and constantly needed watching so they didn't mess anything up. But the trip was a success because they got to play with cousins the majority of the time. It felt like all I was doing was running them around. It was quite exhaustive on me. Baby moved mostly at night...probably because I was still enough to feel the movements.

Funny that I still feel like I am not pregnant but soo pregnant. Maybe because when I lay down I don't look pregnant anymore. Still feeling the tightening of the uterus - sporatically tho. Still weird to think I have a baby growing inside of me. My thoughts have been more and more consumed with seeing the baby and loving the baby. Unless some rather drastic things happen with Devin and with me, he will still miss the birth. I try not to think about it...it doesn't seem that real to me. I know that we are doing the right thing and doing our best to live righteously. I am planning many things to do for him while he is deployed so he can see and feel as much a part of our lives and get to know the baby as much as he can. Tender feelings there.

Devin has been very attentive to my needs and making sure that I feel loved and special. He is understanding to my aches and pains and really makes me feel he is involved in our future. Gosh I love him!

So, the bad news is that I lost the ultrasound pictures. The good news is that I cleaned the van hoping they fell out somewhere...but they didn't. The bad news is that I am cleaning my house looking for them and don't want to post anything until I can find them. Sorry!

Foto Flashback Friday 8

2009-08-15T09:12:00.000-07:00

Today's post covers from about 2 to 6 months old. I love reading my mom's journal about what kinds of things I did and what kind of baby I was. I remember hearing stories about how Olivia come inside from the snow only to warm her hands on my head. I can imagine how upset I was. Thankfully, I grew out of it! But it sure is fun to read about it and know when it generally happened.

I totally love my mom's handwriting and it brings my early days more alive.

Here is a picture of my first Christmas! Aren't I just a cutie?!? Ok, so Olivia totally stole the show with that smile, but I love how we are dressed the same. It is just so neat to see what my mom looked like too.

The Upcoming Navy Ball - HELP!

2009-08-13T17:57:00.000-07:00

I know this is mean, but I will be posting some information about an upcoming Navy Ball before I post the sex of the baby. I am STILL so mean!

On Aug 22, Devin is taking me to a formal ball! I got a formal dress that is to die for gorgeous on me! Instead of looking fat, I look sweetly pregnant. Which is a good cover job. Devin wants me to get a pedicure, manicure, and hair do to get all dolled up for the event. Here is the dress:

Now my problem is...what to do with my hair??? I am in a quandry (don't know if it is spelled right.). I can either get an up do. I wouldn't be able to duplicate...but still costs money. Example to follow. OR I could get a hair cut with highlights and do my hair myself. Example to follow. So, my question is...what do I do? Please please please please please please PLEASE comment and give me help. I guess shaving my head is out of the question...

We Know

2009-08-07T21:09:00.000-07:00

Well, we know what we are having! And you are just going to have to sit tight and wait until we tell family...my sister, Ruth, is making cupcakes (see her blog to order or donate to her cause) that will be chocolate with a surprise in the center....we will get the family together (and take pictures/video of course!) to watch them eat their way to the center and discover what we are having....I know, I am cruel! Gotta love it. Look for a post coming probably Mon or Tue with ultrasound pictures as well.

So excited to taunt and tease.....

Preggo Journal Wk 19 - photo

2009-08-06T08:59:00.000-07:00

I am more then a little beside myself right now. How can my emotions be so up one day and the very next be so very down? And I am NOT pinning this on hormones...it is not! I want to remember everything, not just the happy sugar-coated painted picture. I don't want to be pessimistic either.

Tuesday night was wonderful. I was getting calmed down for bed...so I was reading. As I was relaxing, little baby started moving. It was pretty good movements. Lots of rolling and poking. I put my hand on my tummy and I could have sworn that I felt the baby poke with my hand! I calmly and happily lay there for about half and hour just basking in the joy of feeling baby move and roll around.

Wednesday night was a different story. Devin was home and I wanted to recreate the night before and let him touch my tummy and see if he could feel baby move. I went to bed to relax and told Devin I would call him. When that happened, to drop everything and come quickly. Well, after a half an hour of reading, I still didn't feel baby move. My tummy has been tightening a lot lately with some jabbing pains (not severe) on my left side...so that was happening right then, and I got the impression to check the heartbeat. It has always calmed me before, but this time the heartbeat was harder to find and appeared to be irregular. It was not as constant but sounded like a beating drum that would change tempo...like a murmur or skipping. Devin was worried when he heard it. And of course, I couldn't seem to get a hold of a doctor or triage nurse at 10pm. I will be calling around today for contact numbers. So we called Labor and Delivery and spoke to someone. Since the heartbeat was still above 120 (we counted about 145 beats in one whole minute) that we shouldn't worry. In another week if this happens again, I can go to Labor and Deliery. Until then, it is the ER for any worries.

I can't shake this feeling that something terrible will happen. I know that most attribute to just the regular feelings of concern, but my past dictates that I have a 50/50 chance of either way. I really feel like I am tempting fate. I already have 2 perfect-for-me children. Can I really get a third? So, after Devin fell asleep and our prayers, I started praying with such fierceness and desire for this baby. I am surprised I did not wake Devin with my crying...sobbing. I know that HF has a plan and that he is in control. I asked that if this baby should not make it, that I will be comforted.

I can really only be comforted now to know that I am a mother who prays. I cannot give blessings as a priesthood holder can, but I can pray. So world, watch out!

San Diego Family Time

2009-08-06T07:45:00.000-07:00

Back at the end of July, my mom and her husband Ken came rolling into town in their motorhome. They stayed at a campground with playgrounds, lakes, and water fun. Ruth, Joel, and their adorable kids Mikayla and Hunter came too! We were so ecstatic!!! While everyone was here, we played at mom's campground and motorhome, went to the San Diego Zoo, and ate out together. I would have to say that the Zoo was my favorite...I got a lot of fun and good pictures. I know they are mostly of the kids, but who can blame me?

One of the best parts of the Zoo was that Mikayla and Nathan were such good buds. They wanted to ride in the stroller together and just gabbed and gabbed. They thought they were just so funny! I love that they wanted to do everything together...and I want to preserve the relationship that they are forming. We stopped for a lunch break and the kids just had so much fun running along the block wall and hanging out with each other and Gma Valerie. Daddy was able to join us towards the end and I am so glad that he was! Our kiddos absolutely adore him! The scary thing here was when we lost Nathan for about 30 seconds. Joel was pushing him and Mikayla in the stroller. We were walking and looking at the animals. I came up to the stroller and he wasn't inside. Somehow he managed to walk right past me (I think that was the the most scary part!) to go check something out. He was right in the middle of the "road" when I was able to find him. He is such a sneaky one! I will have to watch him carefully from now on.

Ok, so I have to explain a few of the pictures. There is one where you can see Gma Valerie in between the fingers of little Matthew. Nathan (well both kids for a matter of fact) LOVE to take pictures using the camera. Nathan was taking a picture of Gma Valerie when Matthew decided he wanted to have a turn. It was absolutely hysterical that Gma's face was still in focus and we could see her thru Matthew's hand! Antoher picture of Gma's feet was a picture from Matthew. Great focusing!

At the campground, the kids played in the splashpad...but Matthew wouldn't have any of it! What a goober! He just cried and cried. Nathan found a friend, introduced himself, and then was off (I mean walking off) on a new adventure with his friend. But he just loved playing in the water and being with other kids. It only lasted about half and hour. Oh well. We all played at the park and in the sand. I can't stress enough how I adore that these kids just play so very well together and really seem to enjoy themselves. And they are all one year apart. Yes, we didn't plan things that way!

Baking for a Cause

2009-08-05T07:31:00.000-07:00

My sister is having a bake sale to cover as much of the cost of purchasing a helmet for her son. And it was expensive! If anyone can...please participate and recieve scrumditilyumsious cupcakes this month!!!! She will have different goodies for purchase each month. Check out her blog (BTW - the blog is an awesome....SHE is awesome!)

It's all for this little guy....how can you say no to HIM?!?!?!?!?

Fruit Soup and Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipes

2009-08-04T07:51:00.001-07:00

I made Fruit Soup for a Relief Society tonight. I have had this recipe for years, but haven't made it for...years. It is very tastey...and just about the only good use for Tapioca pudding that I know of. When I add fruit, I just add the kind of fruit I like to eat. If it is from a can...I add the juices because it is a soup and the juices mixed together are soooo yummy! But it is not necesssary to add the juices. Whatever floats your boat. Also, I can never seem to make the recipe the same way each time. And that is ok! It is important to make sure that the "soup" is chilled when served. Otherwise it is gross!

Just gave it to my kids. They LOVED it! I don't think that they could have gotten enough. It is a good snack that I feel comfortable giving the kids and letting them pig out on it. Here is a picture of the final product.

I also made a Cordon Bleu Casserole which also was a big hit with mommy and daddy. Once we got Nathan to taste it...he loved it! I am not sure about Matthew right now. His eating patterns are so bizzare right now. I just don't think he was hungry...but we shall see if he likes it later. Here are some pictures of the process:

SeaWorld FUN!!!

2009-08-01T19:57:00.001-07:00

Devin actually had the entire weekend off duty, so we took advantage and treated it like a vaction. SeaWorld does a promotion where service-members and their families get into the park for free once a year. Totally awesome! There were signs and messages towards members of the armed forces thanking such heros. We felt special when we were asked to stand before the Shamu program. Everyone clapped and cheered. Nice to feel appreciated!

Since we took so many pictures, I wanted to document the loads of fun we had and just get a little glimpse of the adventure we took. Plus, they are pictures of us, and I wanted to remember as much as I could.

Our little vacation started just after the park opened. We got in and scouted out the park to see where the fun stuff for the kids were. We played at "Bay of Play" with the kids and they ran around in the sand, bouncing play areas, punching bags, and a kind of treehouse thing with bridges high above the ground. There were some fun rides and we are glad we got to ride them early when not a lot of people where there yet.

We had a fabulous lunch that was expensive...but at least it tasted grrreat! I had ribs and Devin had brisket. The boyz slept in the stroller for a good hour and a half...so glad to have a break! The afternoon was a bit scary because Nathan got lost. Ok, let me re-phrase...he knew where he was (the arcade) but we, his parents, had no idea. Talk about scary! Funny that while there were tons of people there, for some reason neither Devin or I were really afraid. We knew we would find him, but felt apprehensive as the time passed.

We saw the Shamu show...totally my favorite. I now know why it is the main attraction of SeaWorld. We came home and pretty much went right to bed. 8 hours at a theme park will do that to a family...SO WORTH IT!

Foto Flashback Friday 7

2009-07-31T10:35:00.001-07:00

I wanted to talk about when I was born. My mom "gave" (don't know if she remembers or not!) me her journal that she wrote information about me in. I love it because it is her handwriting talking all about...ME! So, here is the first page where I have my foot and hand prints. She wrote some stats about me and my delivery. Then a page where she documented my first 2 months of life. She tells about my delivery experience. I just love that story!

My very first baby picture taken in the hospital. Aren't I such a cute baby? But then again, I may just be a little bit prejudice...! NAH!

My Shoebox picture is next:

Preggo Journal Wk 18

2009-07-28T19:42:00.001-07:00

I know that this is a few days early, but I wanted to document what happened today.

This morning started out with some serious concerns. I happened to be blog hopping yesterday and read a woman's previous post about an unexpected pregnancy 13 years ago while she was aggressively trying to lose weight (commented on vanity being her "favorite sin" to try and give up). She explained how in the 16th week she started bleeding and needed a D and C to complete her miscarriage. She blamed herself and discovered that for 13 years her husband blamed her too. Thirteen years she has been dealing with her feelings and her miscarriage.

Almost 7 years ago (Jan 2003) I went in to get an ultrasound of our first little baby. There was no heartbeat. I was 20 weeks pregnant. During my 17th week, I knew that something was wrong. Devin brushed it aside because there was no reason for him to worry. From the dates given by my doctor, I could pinpoint the exact time that our baby had died. We discovered that we were carrying a girl.

Now that I am in my 17th week, and I had just scheduled an ultrasound (Aug 7)...I began to be seriously afraid because I couldn't feel baby - I had a few wonderings for a bit, but nothing concrete. My mind started to wonder....which is never a good thing when I get worried. I know that I have a bit more fat on my body then with my other prenancies, but I still longed to know that this little life was ok. Just hearing the heartbeat wasn't enough today. Especially because I really think I am having a girl...my thoughts wondered...can I carry a girl?

So many times I laid down today trying to relax and praying I would feel something. And so many times I got nothing. Then after waking up from a nap - the boyz were still naping. I tried again. I felt the baby FOR SURE! I counted 12 movements in 20 min. I kept thanking Heavenly Father for such a simple yet profoundly important blessing he had provided me. He is listening and cares about me.

I have been overcome with love and graditude for my little boyz and the little baby inside of me today. For someone who wondered if Heavenly Father saw me fit enough to be a partner with me in parenthood when I was childless...I marvel that he will trust me with 3! I will not and cannot let him down!

Foto Flashback Friday 6

2009-07-25T08:21:00.001-07:00

This week I decided to write about my baptism. On Dec 26, 1987 I was baptized and confirmed a member into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The necklace around my neck was a gift from my Grammie on this special day (she is not a member - so because she knew my baptism was important to me - makes this gesture even more sweet). I don't remember how, but the necklack was broken later. I can vaugely picture it broken and do remember how heartbroken I was!

I turned 8 at the end of September, but I know that even at this age, I wanted to be sure the Church was true before I joined. After a very special experience, I was ready to be baptized almost 3 months later. My Grandpa Mills (My mom's dad - Grammie's husband) baptized me. We were pretty close and I wanted this special occasion to be special for him too. I also just found out that I am the only person Grandpa Mills has ever baptized! He was a convert to the Church, and so I think my mom helped make sure he could perform this ordinance.

I know that I was one of the first to be baptized in our new church building in Apache Junction AZ.

Preggo Journal Wk17

2009-07-23T17:58:00.000-07:00

There are times that I can't believe I am this far along. I think I want this pregnancy to be slower because right when baby is due - probably before baby is here - daddy will be leaving for 6 months. I am trying to cherish everyday even if they are bland or uncomfortable or irritating.

I was able to go to the doctor today, so that was good. Everything looks good. Now that I have seen the "doctor" (most are still residents BUT they don't pressure to breast feed or have natural births - to the point of annoyance and trying to make my decisions for me...so I am happy!) The doctor I saw today was very comfortable to talk with and I found out that all the doctors on my "team" are female, so I won't have a male doctor deliver me. Yes, for some reason that is good news.

The very good news is that they scheduled/ordered my ultrasound - meaning radiology department will call me in the next few days or I will call them. I will be able to go in as early as 18-20 weeks - THAT'S NEXT WEEK!!! I might be able to know the sex so soon! On the way to our parking spot Nathan said..."A sister for Nathan!" Either he is putting in his "order" or maybe he knows something no one else does? Hmmmm.......

The bad news is that Devin is almost certainly going to miss the birth - maybe even by a week! Arrrgggg!!!!

I have still only gained about 3-3.5 lbs so far, so that is good.

Soccer Class

2009-07-19T12:33:00.000-07:00

Here is Nathan in his soccer class:

Seriously SOOO cute to watch lil Nathan kicking the soccer ball down to the goalie...funny how as parents we are so enthralled in our kids and what they do. We think he is just the cutest...and it is our hope every parent is as infactuated with their kids as we are of ours! I have no idea why the quality is not that great...others turned out better but I like the footage caught on this one.

Here is Matthew in Nathan's soccer class:

We tried to go to the park and play soccer with them, but the slides and dirt beckoned louder then us, so...

Here are some random ADORABLE pictures of Matthew I got from the afternoon of soccer!

Foto Flashback Friday 5

2009-07-17T09:15:00.000-07:00

I HOSTED A MURDER

There is a "game" out there called - How to Host a Murder. So, before Devin went off to college and after my sophmore year in HS, I mailed invitations to my friends and we played the game. It was such a wonderful evening! Each person was a specific character and as we talk and discuss things, we try to find out who murdered someone. There are certain rounds where information must be discussed and some information people try to hide. We had dinner as part of the game and it was just a blast!

I have yet to repeat the event...but sometime I will, and I hope to have the same kind of experience. A grownup version of "make believe"!

Preggo Journal Wk16

2009-07-16T13:49:00.000-07:00

An interesting week this week. First off, I went to the doctor for some other issues (ie constant coughing...) and have only gained 3 lbs so far. Pretty good I guess. I may have a herniated belly button. Totally forgot to bring it up with the doc, but...from my reading, I think I have one. I coughed later on today and I thought I felt fluid squish in my belly button. Gross!

First the good news...As I was trying to calm my heart rate last night while reading, I am curious if I felt the baby move. I know it is early, and I know I theoretically "should" remember what it was like with Matthew...I don't remember. I remember what it was like when I was huge and he was huge"er" in me. To describe it so I can remember later...it felt like a really tiny twitch...but softer. Maybe even like a burp...but it wasn't me. Hmmm...we shall see!

Next the potentially not so good news. I got a call from the lab office on Tuesday. I guess the prenatal blood screening tests came back that I AM a carrier for cystic fibrosis. So, I go in for a discussion appt on Mon - 20th - and Devin is coming and he will get a blood test then. We won't know anything on his results for 2-3 weeks. Honestly, I haven't given it much thought since then as I have some other issues to deal with. A staph infection resistent to the "good" antibiotics, a back all out of wack, a constant cough, and two toadfart boyz who demand a lot of attention (but I like the last one!). So, I will keep my journal updated and if anyone wants to stay up to date...follow along.

SWEET Hubby

2009-07-14T20:19:00.001-07:00

What a SWEET hubby I have! He knew that we would have limited time together this week, and on his way home picked up two SWEET things just for his SWEETheart! I felt so loved when I saw the rose...but I felt remembered when I saw the ice cream. So, even tho we get only hours together tonight...we will be having a date night! Devin is putting the boyz to bed (granted, we will be folding mounds of laundry as we watch Lost...) but the night will be topped off with ice cream!!! Hooray for chocolate and my SWEET hubby who thought of me.

Little Details

2009-07-13T16:46:00.001-07:00

This is something that I will want to remember for many years to come. I love how Nathan and Matthew are getting so close. They play together and interact with each other having so much fun. Here they are playing with some shaped blocks and Nathan is "helping" Matthew fit those shapes into a bucket. By helping I mean that Nathan is so darn excited he is doing it himself...but he will cheer as Matthew puts one in the right spot. So cute and such good manners! I am such a proud mommy!

Foto Flashback Friday 4

2009-07-10T10:20:00.000-07:00

While going thru some old pictures, I came across one of my favorites. I don't honestly know how I was lucky enough to capture this photographic marvel, but somehow I was. I know that I was in High School and hung out with Devin's family constantly. They were my second family...my home away from home. The whole family was a cooky as I was so I fit right in. So fun that the family was lead by someone who really can let his guard down and just have so much fun! Not only is he a wonderful and honorable man who fulfills his obligations and holds his priesthood with integrity, but he loves to serve and help anyone who asks.

So, while he thought no one has this picture, I hope he knows how much everyone completely LOVES him...thank you for being who you are!

Preggo Journal Wk15 - photo

2009-07-09T20:51:00.000-07:00

I started writing something last night...mostly nonsensical in nature. Things about the difference between exhaustion from the beginning of pregnancy to the just plain tired of now. About how I seem to be getting sick a lot and the boyz running me ragged. Blah Blah. So I woke up this morning and...

I exploded.

I have popped out there for the world to see. I can no longer hide any evidence that I am pregnant. I was going to wait until next week for a photo opportunity, but.....look at this:

My belly button hurts already. That can't be a good sign. I am wearing two sucker-inners and still have started running into countertops and trying to get up and down...things that weren't a problem yesterday was a problem today!

A taste of KARATE!

2009-07-07T21:01:00.000-07:00

Our city recreation department has karate classes that are 8 weeks long and only cost about $30...so I thought "What the heck! He just might enjoy them...and learn something." Pictures are worth WAY more then words...so here goes: (BTW - the best is saved for last....a video)

Seriously, our kid is a weirdo! Even with Nathan being soooo "out there" and rambunxious...sorta glad he isn't the kid next to him.....stood there almost in tears the entire time and often actually cried.

SOOOO not working!

2009-07-06T07:33:00.000-07:00

Ok, so the thumb sucking has continued...and gotten so much worse! Matthew's poor thumb has no skin. He has literally sucked it off! The skin left behind is red and cracking. He throws fits galore when we wrap it...I mean he will stomp, kick, cry, scream, the whole 10 yards when he wants to suck on his thumb and realizes he can't. On Sunday he threw his fit for nearly an hour (woke up from his nap early and wanted to suck his thumb. Realized he couldn't....you get the idea). I thought it may have been a night-terror (I think he has had those before) but when I decided to remove the bandage...INSTANT calm. What a booger brat!

I think we will need to take him to the doctor...thoughts?

Foto Flashback Friday 3

2009-07-05T20:21:00.000-07:00

I now know why it is important to document things...events in a person's life. I can't remember too many details. But here goes...(also, enter Alana and Lindsey...my memories). So this foto flashback is about my high school dances with my sweetie...Devin! Our first dance was his HS prom in 1996. I don't remember much...just getting ready with Alana and Frances. I remember feeling excited and very pretty in my dress. I made the vest he is wearing to match my dress. I also made the shawl thing I am wearing. I felt very important...

Next dance (I don't even know which dance it was...or even when it was)...I remember that I kept that dress forever afterwards. I liked it because it looked good on me and was kindof oriental. At this point, we are "going out" and I remember posing for this picture and completely leaning into him wondering if I could possibly get closer..:-)

Ahhhh...my junior prom. I sewed the dress I wore and the vest/bowtie combo. Things were a little more awkward because he was getting ready to go to UofA and he didn't know what I knew....I was going to marry him. I remember doing my hair and having bangs because he told me he liked me with bangs.

Memories....oh how I love these memories! I remember loving each and every moment and enjoyed just being around Devin. He could make my eyes sparkle and my heart skip a beat. He still does. Just one look from him and I would and do melt. Fun having an interesting history with my hubby!

Preggo Journal Wk14

2009-07-02T20:44:00.000-07:00

Nothing really new to report...still don't think I am pregnant :-) Nathan seems to notice a lot more that I am "getting fat" but I try to teach him better words then that....it is coming...slowly but surely. I think he is excited to get another baby in the house...maybe he realizes they will grow up like Matthew and it is another bro/sis to tourture. I really don't feel any different. Still don't feel like cleaning too often. I have noticed some kind of heightened "awareness" that something is going on inside. Like a presence of some kind. Can't tell who yet...darnit!

I have started to remember a bit more what it was like being pregnant with Matthew around this time. I do remember feeling very apprehensive about whether the baby would live...would I do something stupid like pop my back, roll over, not eat soon enough....blah blah and kill the baby. I think that mostly now I just have a hard time thinking that a baby really is inside me but I still have the same dumb worries. Hoping the kid survives me being a full time mommy to two rambuncious boyz. On to another week!

The Same OLD Friend

2009-06-29T13:33:00.001-07:00

We COMPLETELY lucked out when a new friend from church told us she had a teddybear blanket just like the one Matthew always carries around. Little did we know she really meant it! So we had to take the opportunity to document the differences. Here is the OLD friend"

Here is the NEW friend:

And guess which one he grabbed for first?

Now we can have one in the wash and he can hold one...I wonder how long it will be until the NEW friend looks just like the OLD friend???

LegoLand FUN!!!

2009-06-28T12:50:00.000-07:00

Saturday we all went to LegoLand for fun. We got there around noon and left around 7 that night. Matthew slept for about 45 minutes on the way there, and Nathan slept for about an hour in the stroller. I wish we could have kicked the kids out and taken a nap while they push us around! Lucky!!! Had a good dinner and lots of fun.

They have a bunch of water game areas and here is one of them. They boyz went a little crazy for a while. It was certainly fun to watch. Here are some funny pictures...and videos...

Ok, so I love this one because Matthew was just so excited to play in all of the water...so cute!

If you look closely, Nathan is standing over one of the water jets and making the water shoot "behind" him! He thought he was hysterical! And to us, he was!!!

These kids got very excited about the water...was spazoids! Gotta LOVE em!!!

This one is heartbreaking....Nathan has NO CLUE about steering. It was almost painful to watch! The other kids went aroun twice...Nathan made it half way around only once. We will have to practice....what a goober!!!

All in all...I think we all had fun.

The Letter B

2009-06-26T14:15:00.000-07:00

Today we worked on the Letter B! For about 40 minutes Nathan sat still as we sang songs about the letter B, read about the letter B, played computer games about the letter B, and colored/traced the letter B. I Think he is getting pretty good. Almost did an art/craft project...but I realized we don't have any glue (thanks boyz). But it was all good and I loved that he got pretty into the tracing of letters. Here are the "fruits" of our labors:

Foto Flashback Friday 2

2009-06-26T12:13:00.000-07:00

So I don't really remember doing a lot of swimming...but obviously I did at one point. Maybe I even liked it??? I know I don't now...Oh, I used to be sooo cute! One thing I know is that I had issues remembering to put my arms out in front of me when I swam. I have a scar over my left eye from when I ran into the wall once. I liked my swimsuit...

This is a picture of when Liz was taking swimming lessons when we lived in Chandler, before moving to Fernwood Manor. Liz was a little hesitant to learn to swim, but once she got the hang of it she loved it. The swimming teacher took this picture of Liz holding her breath under water. She was in Kindergarten.

This is Liz swimming at the pool at Fernwood Manor in Tempe. Once she learned how to swim it was non stop getting on the side of the pool and jump, jump, jump. She could go for hours like the energizer bunny. we would go out to the pool as a family and play, play, play. That swimming suit had a little skirt which she loved.

Preggo Journal Wk13

2009-06-26T10:15:00.000-07:00

Some good news and just plain bummer news....1. The good news is that I got an appointment to see a doctor...not a midwife for my next appt. Yeah! Now I can bring the kids and drop them off at the childcare center while I go for my appt. Very exciting. 2. The bummer news is 2 fold - first that my next appt is July 30th...I will be 18 weeks by then. But even more bummer is that I don't get my ultrasound until around 22-24 weeks!!!! Argggg! As my mom would agree...I am not a very patient person. "But I wanna know now!!!" Oh well. Everything is on track so I am not worried.

I am still tired, but not to the point of practically sleeping all day - or at least wanting to. I take my rests, but I function pretty well. I get realliy thirsty at night. The house is cleaner, but the laundry just doesn't get folded...no big change there! My nausea is practically gone...yippeeee! I listen to the baby heartbeat everyday. Still weird to think of my child inside me and I don't know who it is. I try to get "a feeling" of who it is, but nothing yet. The only reason I would be bummed to get a boy....is....I don't have any names!!!!

I try to keep myself busy and keep the boyz busy. I am trying not to worry about things I can't control. I have 2 boyz...they will squabble. They will be more physical with each other. They will be excited and rambunxious. I have introduced cold showers for Nathan throwing fits.....He is my stubborn boy. Ahhh, the fits have drastically decreased. Yesterday, he even came willingly to the shower because he knew he did wrong in throwing a fit. Learning to enjoy the stage of my life that I am in...thanks mom!!!

Random bits of us

2009-06-24T19:50:00.000-07:00

I JUST THROW BACK MY HEAD AND LAUGH!

Today we practiced laughing. For no particular reason, I decided to just throw my head back and laugh. Nathan caught on rather quickly and joined in on the fun. He had no idea why we were laughing, but just loved laughing. Matthew loved what we were doing! He thought we were hysterical! I even got him to just lean back on my hands as he laughed. The fun part was in between laughing....we would just look at each other...both boyz were looking to me to know when to start the laughing again. I really enjoyed this small little time just laughing at nothing with my boyz. Sometimes the fun and little enjoyable things in life must be created. How silly we must have looked and sounded! We may make this type of laughing more of a routine.

IT CAN'T BE THAT EASY!

As everyone must know, Matthew is a hugongeous thumb sucker. That, and he adores (can I emphasize this any more?) his teddybear blanket. He stopped the plug (aka pacifer) very early in his life when he realized that his thumb was attached and no one could take it away. Well, as of late, his thumb has started to really look nasty. This goes beyond the pruny and battered skin phase...passed that long ago! He got a nasty blister on the tip of his thumb that basically made me nauseated just looking at it. I couldn't bear the thought of him sticking it in his mouth and possibly getting an infection. Nightmares ran through my head about him getting his thumb amputated because of gangreen or something. Well, as I researched what we should do to try and get him to at least stop sucking THAT thumb, Devin helped me bandage it up nice and good. Couldn't find the duct tape tho...drat! For a few days, he whined practically all day - had to take the bandage off at church just to give others (ahem...us) a break. But, I have noticed that since Monday...he hasn't sucked his thumb or whined about it! Even when the bandage was off! I have worried and fretted and dread the time he would need to stop sucking his thumb (did the same with Nathan - at 4 months I was worried he would get addicted so I took his plug away and he never asked for it again...weird). There is no way this habit was this easy to break. We will probably bandage for a while just to make sure. Alas, his teddybear blanket is going nowhere...not worried.

THE LETTER A

Finally, we have started the Hooked on Phonics program. Maybe a little late because Nathan knows all of his letters and seemed to be running circles around me....but we are going slow and trying to have fun with it. So, we are coloring, playing games on the computer, playing card games, and trying some other kind of activity with each letter, while he practices writing each letter. Today, duh, we started with the letter A. Here is his drawing:

So cute to see him practicing and working on tracing the letter. To make my life a little easier (cross my fingers) Nathan and I worked on this during Matthew's naptime. I didn't get any rest, but I am hoping to stimulate Nathan's mind then work their bodies so they will sleep well at night. Nathan watched a movie while I got to clean the kitchen a bit and just kinda veg with him. Overall a pretty good arrangement today.

Studio Pic

2009-06-23T22:07:00.000-07:00

Devin helped me get my "studio" up today. I learned how to put my lights up and how to get them to work with my camera. We realized that the spare oom is not large enough for a studio...at least for anything bigger then close ups. So, maybe we will clean out the garage (been needing it anyways) and set things up in there. Devin needed a "professional" picture of him in uniform for his official records in the system. Here is the finished product. Maybe I will play with it in Photoshop sometime. I took the picture in "RAW" format, so it took some getting used to...even just downloading to the computer. I will learn how to edit...lots of new tools available thru canon. If anyone has any comments or suggestions....please let me know! Yes, I am aware of some of the shadows...I couldn't put the lights any further to the side...so they were practically directly in front. Just didn't have the space.

Devin's Daddy Day

2009-06-21T18:30:00.000-07:00

I am one of the lucky one's who get to have their husband home for Father's Day. I wasn't expecting that he would be home to early to help us all get ready before church...SO I actually got to get ready alone!!!! And daddy got the boyz all ready for church. So this is what daddy got for daddy day today:

1. Mommy had time to do her hair nice and pretty....just for daddy... * - * - (roughly translated into wink wink)

2. Found this on a friend's blog and made one for daddy. I am very pleased with the way that it turned out. I painted three stones that are used for patios to make a daddy ROCKS!

3. Then just some random pictures of daddy with his boyz to round out the day...

I am so thankful for a husband who loves me tenderly and loves his children with all of his heart. Everyday he shows us that he is willing to work on our behalf and create a future full of promise and security. He is my best friend, my comfort, my joy, and my strength. Thanks for everything you do and say for our little family....it is my hope you know we are aware of your struggles and are thankful you lead our family in righteousness!

Apparently we've ALL been doing it wrong

2009-06-20T07:35:00.001-07:00

I was informed this morning that I have been teaching Nathan the incorrect way to put on underwear. In trying to make Nathan a little bit more independent, we have taught him how to put on his undies. Usually everything is just fine and he does it himself with no problem. WELL...apparently today he decided that this is all just hogwash and he himself knows best concerning his underwear. He very adamant about the proper way to do things....you know, has to be his way or else. So, I just let him do his thing and we will just keep working on it. I am not to worried. It is just so adorable! And, of course, I had to take a picture as proof!

Foto Flashback Friday 1

2009-06-19T10:17:00.000-07:00

I wanted to start a new tradition...mainly because I want to eventually make my blog into a book - a great way to preserve for Family History. I have so many photos and stories of myself that I don't want to forget. While I post so very many pictures and stories of my children - I wanted to make a point to share some things about me. ***If I could enlist everyones help - please feel free to comment on 1. the actual event (if you remember it! - Mom, Ruth, Olivia, Dad, and my Reed family, since you were there for most of my childhood! - this is where you really come in!) 2. the time frame - events of the world or what you were like during this time OR 3. just general commetns on what has been remembered. I want to include some of the comments in my future book and anything you say will only enhance my experience and book. Thanks!!!

So here goes: My flashback memory is when Devin went off to UofA for college. It would have been the summer/fall of 1996. I was going to be a junior in HS. Devin's dad seemed to always have a camera in his hands and today was no exception. He caught my adoration for Devin exactly! Plus he captured my personality as well. I was sad that Devin was not going to be around but excited that he wasn't too far away either. Totally loved my hair in this picture too! What I think is funny is that my Taz shirt seemed to say in all when I am gawking/drooling over Devin. Just like I wanted to jump over and gobble him up. I think the funny part is that Devin seems to be completely oblivious...or just trying not to show his feelings with his parents around...ewww! Boys are weird. Ahhhh, what a hottie!

Swimming Lessons

2009-06-18T19:15:00.000-07:00

I decided to enroll the boyz in swimming lessons. I figured that just because I despise the water...that doesn't mean that they don't/won't like them. Let me first start out that Nathan is a Terd (yes, with a capital T). Everyday for months, Nathan will thank Heavenly Father for swimming in his prayers. This is all done by himself. We didn't prompt that one. He has had 4 lessons - jam packed in a week. He has 4 more next week before this class is over. Since it was his first lessons, he needed to be in a class that I get in the water with him. Let me just say that this kid throws tantrums like the world was ending. But when his instructor takes him, he does everything she asks...so after this class, he will start a class where I don't get in the water. I can't tell you how thankful I am for that!!! Here is my toadfart Nathan in the water:

Matthew on the other hand is a different story. I think we are starting at a good time with him. He hardly ever cries. Goes under the water with no problems and loves to play with the toys. He does fairly well with all the exercises except blowing bubbles in the water. Granted, the pool is very salty, so I can't really blame him.

Overall, it is a good experience swimming with the boyz and I am glad that we started...even if it is a bit late for Nathan. He is a fast learner and will be just fine. Probably better in a few weeks when I am not in the pool with him.

Preggo Journal Wk 11/12 - Belly Shot

2009-06-17T17:12:00.001-07:00

So I DID go to the doctor - ok so the Navy way of doing things is very confusing. "Apparently" everyone has to go to the Midwife Clinic for the first visit...but I am afraid I will be stuck there. I did not really like the experience. The midwife I saw was new there (and I discovered that the NTC part of the clinic name is: Navy Training Center) was actually in training. She couldn't even find the babies heart beat with the doppler...couldn't figure out how to move the ultrasound probe (yeah, it was the non fun kind of ultrasound) to see the baby...seemingly degraded my decisions on not wanting to breastfeed or deliver without drugs. Obviously NOT a good match. So, I need to figure out how to see a doctor and not a midwife. These options might work for some, but not for me. The good thing that happened is I have a picture of my little bouncing bean. (When they actually found the baby - he/she was bouncing off the walls of my uterus and even looked like he/she waved at me!) So without further ado:

Yeah, I know it is upside down...but you get the point. Also, my due date has changed....or has been updated. My official EDD is Dec 31, 2009. Really dumb, but it would be really fun to deliver then BUT a part of me wants to deliver on Jan 1, 2010...the numbers would be 01/01/10 - really fun, huh! I just like it when numbers work out. For instance, with Matthew, I actually asked the doctor if she could wait a few minutes so he could be born at 10:32 pm so we would have the neat numbers: 0,1,2, and 3! What a weirdo I am.

Took the advice and gave a shot from my perspective. I look totally weird and HUGE...but I can see my feet....better start preparing to say goodbye soon.

Our Perspective....

2009-06-16T21:35:00.000-07:00

From our perspectives...this is the face of our little begger. Begging for attention (hmmm, I wonder where he gets that!) I think he is frusterated because he is a short and wants to be part of the action. When he doesn't gets what he wants in a satisfactory way, this is what we see:

Pony Rides

2009-06-16T20:58:00.000-07:00

We found a Strawberry Farm in the San Diego area. Since it is the very end of the season, it wasn't as nice as I expected, but they had so many activities geared for children. The boyz favorite was the petting zoo, a gigantic slide, and the pony ride. Here are the best pics....

I think Matthew liked the pony ride much more then Nathan. But they are soooo adorable! It was "hot" for San Diego...but still rather uncomfortable. The smell of the animals was rather disgusting...but I think I was the only one to notice. The boyz certainly didn't care! It is so cute to see them interacting and playing together...Matthew laughs up a storm and Nathan just loves the attention. I think we will go again during the best part of the strawberry season.

Preggo Journal Wk10

2009-06-10T20:56:00.000-07:00

I am a bit late with this, but who's counting...right? This week was horrible. Got a sinus infection. I caught it early enough, but the doctor I happened to see seemed as though I wasn't sick at all, so it was a bit depressing. It got waaaaay worse, and then when I tried to see the doctor again, I had to wait 2 days. By the time I got medication, my face had so much pressure built up that I really thought I was going to explode. My throat hurt and I couldn't sleep. Also, during this time, both boys had ear infections and pink eye. Thankfully, we are all doing well....now. I still have a residual cough.

My fat seems to be moving right on up...right on schedule. I look preggo because of my fat being moved out of the way. Oh well. Not much I can do to change that. I listen to baby's heartbeat daily. Very reassuring that I haven't coughed him/her out yet. Or that I haven't dislodged him/her from my uterus.

Devin looks so tiny compared to how I am feeling...probably will get worse. I just feel so huge...and it has only just begun. Well, the good thing is that it doesn't really bother me like I thought it would. This is what happens when I make a baby. These short months are not my whole life, and it is ok if baby does some weird things to my body. I WILL have it back!

I think I lost 3 lbs. At least that is according to my scale. I throw up muuuuuch more then I did with Matthew. Oh well. Sad when you just get used to things like that!

Forgiveness

2009-06-08T14:10:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I am giving the Relief Society lesson on Forgiveness on the 21st of June (Father's Day BTW). I am completely nervous because it is with a bunch of women...not kids. I am not a sophistocated person...so I don't want to present a lesson completely unlike me...BUT I don't want it too juvinille either.

With no other information...what kinds of things would you wanna hear...what kind of things would you need to hear...and what would need to be said/heard to learn something?

Thanks in advance for your help!!!!!!

Also, looking for a great intro, like a visual representation of forgiveness. HELP!!!

Daddy Comes HOME!

2009-06-04T20:52:00.000-07:00

We waited at the airport for what seemed like an eternity. Every other Navy wife or girlfriend was very nicely dressed and I wore some nicer slacks and a polo. At first I wondered if I made the right choice because I thought maybe it looked like I didn't care. BUT after chasing the boyz up and down the very long airport hallways and/or holding Matthew on a hip while he fought me the entire time....I very much do not regret my decision for apparel. I think the boyz could feel my excitement because they wouldn't nap for anything. I should have drugged them and brought the stroller. Would have been easier....oh well! I kinda feel bad that I didn't cry or anything when daddy got off the plane. But he wasn't gone the entire time. And I was completely exhausted from my 2.5 hour workout.

Here is daddy getting off the plane. (The first guy off is the Captain - his wife had a new baby):

The boyz seeing and feeling daddy right away!

And the boyz after things settled down. About 30 seconds into the car ride home!

Such a good reunion...as you can see.

Preggo Journal Wk 9

2009-06-02T20:54:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't posted in a bit...been busy. DADDY (Devin) IS HOME!!!!! Will get to post more on Thursday about that. Soooooo good to see him!

This was a tough week for me. It is like my gag reflex is worse and everything is upseting. The only thing I can eat in the morning in SlimFast. Weird. But I have always liked the taste and it seems like a treat for me. The kitchen and I don't get along very well. I have the most energy in the morning and the most nausea in the mornings...so it doesn't work that well. How is it the thought of food is disgusting...yet I can't stop thinking about it? Probably because I know I have to eat sometime and I start very early to psych myself up and prepare for it. Hmmmm.

I was positive I had experienced another disaster....I had the same feelings from when I miscarried at 5 months. I knew something was wrong and I had the feeling that death was eminent. It is so hard in the beginning. I got my doppler back and started using it with no luck in finding baby's heartbeat. Sunday night I called my sister in tears because I didn't know what to do. I just needed her reassurance that I wasn't stupid or insane. She is great for that! But, the good news is that on June 1.....I FOUND THE HEARTBEAT!!! And naturally I listen to it often. Good to know baby is ok. I still have some worry that the baby will be physically handicapped. I know every mother to be gets these feelings, but part of me wonders if they are the same as when I just knew I would need to adopt first (happened!) or that I would have trouble having kids (happened!) or when I could feel baby died (happened!). Reminds me of the movie...Evan Almighty...."I know you (HF) do things because you love me. Love me less."

I am not writing this so others can comfort me...I am writing this as a journal entry. I want to remember the good feelings, the bad feelings, and even the ugly feelings. Thanks RUTH!!!!

BTW - I just spent the last 20 minutes looking for baby heartbeat with no luck. Daddy on the other hand simply placed the doppler on my tummy, and there was baby! He could do that with Matthew also. Kids just loooooove their daddy!

Look...I CAN clean!

2009-05-31T21:00:00.000-07:00

So it turns out that I can actually clean my house. Granted....the other half of the house is a train wreck. BUT with Devin coming home tomorrow - I wanted at least half of the house to be clean. I figured that we could have company if we ever wanted to. Devin feels happy with a clean house, so I figured I would do my best to make and keep it clean.

Please keep in mind that those with weak constitutions should look away!

Kitchen area before and after.

Living Room before and after.

Preggo Journal wk 8

2009-05-28T06:43:00.000-07:00

Boring but interesting week. I think my prenatal vitamin made me sick. I was telling my sis-in-law Alana that I wasn't sure I was preggo anymore because I was feeling good. She gave me some comfort and I had a renewed vigor to actually take my prenatal vitamin. I had realized I hadn't taken it in about a week. So, the next day I took it (always with food - I DO realize that is a must and have for a while). Yeah, got sick. French toast and me don't get along for that reason right now. I switched to the non perscription kind of vitamin...while I am still nauseated I am not sick and that is "better" then the alternative.

Three more weeks till I actually get to see a doctor. Aggrivating! Not like pregnancy is that exciting in the begining anyways. Boring boring week.

At this point, I really don't believe that I am actually preggo. Besides some nausea, I don't even remotely feel preggo. Hmmmmmm.

HIS gym

2009-05-25T08:06:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of the gym I had the boyz join. Found it in a magazine. They have "free-play" 5 times a week and the people that work there are AMAZING with kids. I am hoping to have Nathan learn 1. how to take turns and be patient 2. learn to control his body 3. gain some tumbling skills and 4. have fun while burning off energy!

This is Nathan AFTER one of his gym sessions. Plumb tuckered out. Goals met! It is so cute because he talks about going to "my gym" with a thumbs up. He is getting the hang of some things. But the funny part is he gets incredibly shy! He has started to hide his head and it is like he is pretending he doesn't want to be there. Then he warms up and is great. I will get some video this next week. SO CUTE!

Gma Valerie brings a SANDBOX!

2009-05-24T17:31:00.000-07:00

This was a BIG deal for Nathan...he was getting his own sandbox...to share with Matthew. My mom talked about making Nathan a sandbox...and I was really excited. Nathan needs things to do, and a sandbox would be perfect. So, plans were made and the date was set. The sandbox arrived! Ken was gracious enough to help and Nathan had so much fun "helping" and following the activity.

So, here are the pictures showing the process. Nathan LOVES it! I will have to get a very comfy lounge chair to watch them play...they can play for hours.

Thanks Gma Valerie! Thanks Ken!

File Folder Games

2009-05-21T11:51:00.000-07:00

A loooooong time ago at church I met a lady who had something she called "file folder games" to keep her kids occupied during church. So, I have spent some time locating something already made and then can later expound on it. In preparation, I got a laminating machine.

Nice little unit. Pretty inexpensive and REALLY easy to use. Then, I got to work on printing out some of the materials and getting file folders. I ordered a cd from http://www.childcareland.com/ and got to work! They are actually quite time consuming to make. Considering I also attach velcro to the backs so they stick. I think generally they are supposed to just be placed on top.

If I was thinking straight, I would have gone in 3 rows of 5....but I wasn't. Opps!

Now, what I want to do next (besides make more of these) is to make a family one where the pictures are of people in our family. Don't want anyone to get forgotten! Then, I would like something for more gospel oriented.

I tried these in church for the first time, and it didn't really go smoothly. Probably because it was the first time they had seen them and didn't really know what to do. SO...I think we shall have "practice time" at home everyday on our couch. I want to get a "time timer" so the kids will know how much time has passed and how much time is left. It is a great visual aid.

I feel it all coming together!

Preggo Journal Wk7

2009-05-19T19:29:00.000-07:00

Oh good gravy! Wait, don't mention food....ewww! More nausea...but no throwing up, so I am happy. Trying to eat more fruit...something in the tummy and meat is a turnoff. I find that I feel starving most of the time, but no food sounds remotely appitizing. Weirdest thing...the smell of the trashbags...the kind that are supposed to remove odor just send my stomach on a roller coaster! Is it kinda weird that water can make me nauseated? Oh yeah, and changing Matthew's diapers is also becoming increasingly difficult. Can't wait for this phase to be OVER!

Probably my fat getting in the way, but I just feel more um....stuffed. Like I can tell a difference when I bend that my tummy is just there a bit more. I think I can feel some stuff moving around...like me stretching...definately not baby movements! My house is a complete disaster area. I think an actual tornado has been thru here...like they name Hurricanes, but these are named Nathan and Matthew. So cluttered and messy! I started crying when I told Devin I was glad he wasn't here to be a part of this mess...he would be so ashamed of me! The place looks descent about every other day and it is only part of the house at a time...why do we go thru so many dishes?!? And where do these clothes come from?!? Arggggg!