Dear Santa Claus

Emily has been so cute this Christmas season. She has been trying to understand Santa Claus and how the whole reindeer, naughty and nice, and present thing works. She has been trying so hard to be extra good so she will get some presents. Earlier this month she even wrote a letter to Santa Claus tattle-telling on Sam (just to make sure Santa was well informed).

The entire day on Christmas Eve she tried so hard to do everything right. She worked diligently cleaning up her toys and not making any messes (because at our house Santa Claus doesn't come to a messy house). She spent some time drawing a picture for Santa and taped some treats (leftover Halloween candy) to it (see above). She also left him a present along with some cookies (that her Primary teacher gave her). She left her sweet offering near the Christmas tree so Santa would be sure to see it.

Another Sammy Says...

Early one morning there was a beautiful frost covering everything, Sam looks out the car window and says, "Mom, look! There's a snowflake tree! (Just as you would say, "Look! An apple tree.)

The picture doesn't capture the beauty of that morning. The sun was glistening off the frost covered trees. It was amazing.

Sammy Says...

The other day Sam was running around the living room yelling:

I'm a spaceship!

I'm blasting off!

I'm squirting fire!

Busy, Busy, Busy

I love the Christmas season. There is always so much to do to get ready for the big day. Christmas cards to send, presents to buy, packages to ship, food to prepare, and so much more. Because of all the excitement, I have to admit, I have not had time to blog lately. But, never fear blog readers, I'll post more soon. In the meantime, Merry Christmas!!

A Tablespoon of Honey is the Medicine That Goes Down

I have had a cough since Saturday and it has been driving me crazy. Brad read an article that said that a tablespoon of honey is more effective than an over-the-counter cough suppressant. So I decided to try it and I have to admit that it works great. For the past two nights I have taken a tablespoon of honey at bedtime and I did not wake up coughing. This afternoon I was coughing a lot (Sorry Sarah, I was coughing throughout your lovely birthday luncheon) and I took some when I got home. Sure enough my coughing has eased.

I have to admit, I don't usually use alternatives to drugs. I'm more than happy to relieve my symptoms by taking a little pill but I'll vouch for a tablespoon of honey (just don't give it to babies younger than one).

No by David Walsh, PhD

This book was reviewed in our local newspaper awhile back and it interested me so I checked it out from the library. I really enjoyed this book. I felt like it reflected our parenting style. It was nice to have a book validate what I have always believed in.

Here are a few chapter headings:

• No: Why Kids Need it
• Saying No in a Yes Culture
• No and the Brain
• Self-Esteem: Kids Need the Real Thing
• Taming the Gimmes
• Raising Media Wise Kids
• No is Not a Destination; No is the Road to Yes

He also has a chapter on different stages and how No is applicable and important during that stage such as toddler, middle years, teenage, etc.

At the end of each chapter he has Do's and Don'ts as well as a checklist to see how you are doing and where you need to improve.

Some points I like in the book:

• Tell stories that promote values.
• Slow down and take time to listen to your children.
• Limit your child's media.
• Teach your children patience. Make sure they periodically have to wait for things.
• Evaluate whether you allow your child to face No.
• Make family a priority.
• Decide if your kids are doing too much.
• Don't do things for your kids that they should be able to do for themselves.
• Don't become a nonstop entertainment committee for your children.
• Don't give your children everything they want.
• Don't become a doormat for disrespectful behavior. Tolerance and patience are important parental traits, but you are allowed to insist-and should insist- on courteous and responsible behavior by your children.

Here's what he has to say about balanced parenting:

• Clearly establish limits with judicious use of No.
• Firmly, consistently enforce consequences.
• Be respectful and engaged with your kids and require that from them in return.
• Keep an emotional connection with your kids.
• Demand accountability and responsibility, but always combine your demands with respect and warmth.
• Negotiate, up to a point, You set the rules as the parent.
• Give and take and-only occasionally-compromise.

My goal as a parent is to raise children who will be able to handle being an adult. I hope they will become successful, competent, loving, hard-working, spiritual adults (to name a few). If kids are not given a chance to face difficulties, how will they learn once they leave the nest. At least when they are at home, they can learn what they need to in a loving, caring, safe environment.

I also like how Dr. Walsh discusses how media influences children. Brad and I take the media's influence very seriously. Our kids do not watch any TV at home. We limit movies to long road trips and occasionally a free movie in the theater. We make sure the movies they do see are appropriate for their age and maturity. We do let them play computer games but this does not happen frequently enough to be a problem and most of the games they play are educational or art activities.

Some people think this is strange but we LOVE it!!!! I could post all the reasons why and how and what and maybe I will sometime but for this post I'll say that it is a blessing in our house. At this time of the year, I'm grateful that no one is telling my kids what they want for Christmas. Since they are not exposed to commercials, they decide for themselves.

So I would encourage all parents to find a copy and see what might help your family.

Emily and Ben

Emily is the best big sister in the world. She loves her little baby brother Benjamin so much. Despite the fact that he is 21 pounds and she is not quite 35 pounds, she packs him around the house (even down the stairs which she is not supposed to do). The other morning I was in the shower and she decided to get Ben out of the crib. So she climbed into his crib, lifted him over the rail, and handed him to Sam (who is not strong enough to carry him around). Sam then laid him down on the floor. Then Emily picks him up and carries him to my bathroom. I was out of the shower by now and she brings him in. I, in a somewhat calm voice, ask how they got Ben out of the crib (there was no crying as far as I could tell). Emily calmly tells me how and says, "And we didn't even drop him once!"
Ben loves Emily and he smiles and gets excited when she comes home from school. He is very tolerant of what she does to him and is happy to be included in all the fun. Here is Emily dressing Ben in her dress up clothes. He was quite adorable and he even left the headband on for awhile (then he chewed it.)
Emily is a great helper with Ben. One morning I woke up to Emily, Sam, and Ben all in Ben's crib. Emily was getting Ben dressed. She had changed his diaper and was putting on his clothes. It was so wonderful to wake up to three kids all dressed and ready for the day!
Thanks Emily for all your help! You are a great girl and I appreciate how much you help me. You even do it with a smile!

Sam and Friends

Sam is a shy boy and is very happy staying at home with me. He doesn't have a huge need to be with friends but he does have two best buddies. Here are a few pictures I couldn't resist posting.

Here is Sam with his #1 best friend, Mason. Sam and Mason have played with each other since they were little. Emily and Mason's older sister, Sarah, are best friends and we spend a lot of time with their family. Even though Sam is about 9 months older than Mason, from the picture you can tell he is much shorter. Sam and Mason love to play with each other. They get so excited to go to each other's houses to play. Here they are dressed up as firemen, ready to go outside and put out some fires! (This picture was taken in November when the weather was still nice.) Here is Sam with his other buddy, Blake. Blake's mom, Hillary, is my visiting teacher and we have become friends. Blake is a fun boy who loves to dress up. Since he has no sisters at home, Emily's dress up is exciting and new to him. I couldn't resist snapping a picture of these two little guys all dressed up as queens and princesses (it was their idea-Emily wasn't even home). Don't worry within a few minutes they were sword fighting and playing with trains and cars.P.S. Blake is only 1 1/2 months older than Sam but much, much taller. My Sammy is a short, little guy.

Ben in Time Out

Somehow, Ben ended up in the time out corner. I'm not sure if he had help getting there (i.e. Emily or Sam). But he was was too cute sitting in the corner, eating a slipper, to not take a picture. So here is my cute baby. Excuse the slobber and runny nose, just look at those chubby arms. He definitely has not done anything that would send him to time out-he's just too adorable and sweet natured!

Emily and "Nancy"

Brad and I have this little "debate." I love the name Nancy. I would love to have another little girl and name her Nancy. Brad absolutely does not like the name. We were joking about it the other day. Emily was listening and she came up with a solution. So let me introduce you...

...This is Nancy. Emily spent about an hour and a half creating Nancy. She traced her own feet and hands for Nancy's feet and hands. She colored the entire body. She made a dress for her and decorated it with flowers and colored it yellow (her favorite color). She gave her hair and included a bow that doubles as a handle to hold her.

For about three days, we had to include Nancy is most family activities; bed time stories, dinner time, etc. She is now hanging on our art board as an honorary family member.

Will I ever get a "real" Nancy. Who knows...I'm still hoping.

Snow Sam

Sam went outside this morning to shovel snow. I thought he meant the driveway.
Silly me.

First Big Snow of the Season

On Saturday we had our first big snow of the season. My unofficial report is that we had about 4 inches of snow and ice. I say snow and ice because the snow at times felt like little ice balls which stung your face as it fell from the sky. It also plastered our front window with ice which gave it a frosted look.

Later, the snow started to melt but then froze which made everything very icy. It was very pretty though. Our mailbox, roof, and house were covered with ice which glistened in the sun. Once it stopped snowing, we started to shovel. It was difficult to shovel the snow because of the ice layer on top. We had to break the ice with either the shovel or in some cases a heavy, metal ice scrapper before we could get to the snow to shovel it out of the way.
The kids had a great time playing outside. They bundled up and played for quite awhile (and Brad thought I was crazy to buy snow pants:-). They thought it was really neat because they could walk on top of the snow and not leave footprints (because of the ice). Emily and Anders, the boy across the street, slid down the sidewalk with sleds. Everything was so slippery, they had a blast.

Eventually, we all got too cold and tired of being outside. So we went inside and had hot chocolate with candy canes. Oh, it is beginning to feel a lot like Christmas!

200 Days

Today is a milestone in our lives. Brad only has 200 more days left in his residency (not that he's counting down or anything ;)

We can't believe it. Our long journey is almost over-5 years of graduate school, 4 years of medical school and almost 4 years of residency.

Two hundred days seems like nothing.

All I Want For Christmas Is....

We went to a Winter Carnival today and the kids were able to sit on Santa Claus' lap and tell him what they wanted for Christmas. Emily woke up bright and early and came into my room to make sure I had not forgotten today was the day of the carnival. I was worried that Sam would be scared of Santa Claus, but he wasn't. Ben didn't seem to mind this white bearded fellow. He had no problem sitting on Santa's lap. Emily, of course, was excited and spoke loud and clear her Christmas wishes.

This is what they asked for:

Emily

1. The Guess Who game (She played it with Uncle Shaun and Aunt Kelsey this summer and has wanted it ever since.)
2. A notebook (So she can write stories.)

Sam

1. A dinosaur set (He didn't give any details.)
2. A Mickey Mouse notebook (He says his friend, Mason, has one.)

Ben

1. Okay, he didn't actually ask for anything but Emily hopes he gets something.

I think that is a pretty reasonable list. Maybe Santa will be able to make their wishes come true.

Happy Thanksgiving

This has been an unusual Thanksgiving. I haven't been in the holiday spirit. Here are some maybe whys:

• Maybe because Ben has been sick with a cold and has been a total grouch and hasn't slept well for days (I'm exhausted!).
• Maybe because I did not host a large dinner this year (last year we had 20 people for dinner).
• Maybe because Brad had to work and just made it home to help with the last minute preparations before we had to go to dinner and then he had to go back to work after dinner.
• Maybe because my "famous" crescent rolls went flat and I can't figure out why and I actually cried about it.
• Maybe because the Black Friday ads did not hold the usual excitement for me (I can't go because Brad will be at work and I'm not taking 3 kids out at 4 am or later).

But now that I think back on it I should be more grateful. I'm grateful for:

• Teri B. and her family for inviting us over for dinner. The food was delicious and we actually got to play games while the kids played downstairs. Girls against boys Taboo actually ended in a tie (I got stuck on the word fling).
• Emily and Sam helped me clean the basement so we can decorate for Christmas tomorrow.
• Brad at least had a few hours off so he could join us for dinner.
• Ben took a nap during game time!
• Other than a few colds, my family is healthy.
• My mom's health scare is hopefully minor.
• A loving husband and adorable children.
• Sam recognizing he was so tired, he went to bed on his own.
• Most of my Christmas shopping is done so I don't need to go out and fight the crowds and spend more money.

So excuse my negativity and lack of holiday spirit at the beginning of this blog. It felt good to get it out and now I can focus on the Christmas season. I can't wait to put up our Christmas tree!

"Forgetting something really important"

This is a "horrible mom" post. I can't believe it happened and I can't believe I'm writing about it. But it is one of those things I'll never forget so I might as well.

First a little background information. Our library is downtown and rather large. It has 2 stories and although you can park on the street, I usually park in the parking garage. To get to the library from the parking garage, you have to walk down two long hallways (like a L) and then take an elevator to get to the library's main entrance.

Here's the horrible story:
The other day I took the kids to story time at the library. We are signed up along with some other friends. We were gathered at the fish tank waiting for the older kids to get off the computers so we could leave. Then we all left the library (or so I thought): Me with Ben in the stroller, Emily and Sam; Teri with Madison in a stroller, Hayden and Rachelle; and Hillary and Blake. We all crammed into the elevator (3 adults, 2 strollers and what I thought was 5 kids). As we were getting out of the elevator, we had the following dialogue.

Me to Hillary and Teri: Do you ever have that feeling you're forgetting something really important? (For some reason I'm suddenly filled with anxiety like I'm forgetting something really important)

(As we are talking all the kids are running down the hallway. My kids are supposed to stop at the corner and wait before running down the hallway to the parking garage.)

Hillary and Teri: Yea, I know you mean.

Hillary: That's when you do a head count.

Me: Let's see, I have Emily, Sam, Ben, my diaper bag, my purse, my library bag, my books are checked out. What could I be forgetting?

Emily and Rachelle: Mom, they (meaning the boys) didn't stop at the mirror (corner). They ran down the hall.

All the moms hurry to the corner to make sure all the kids are safe. We get to the corner and see Blake and Hayden at the open door which does into a foyer which leads to the parking garage.

Me: Where's Sam? Where's Sam? WHERE'S SAM????!!!!! (Horrible visions of Sam wandering around in a parking garage but unbelievable because that is sooooo against the rules.)

Hillary: I don't think he was in the elevator.

Panic breaks out. Teri runs to the door to the parking garage. I have Hillary (8 months pregnant) stay with Ben and I run back to the library. I run down the stairs as fast as I can. I run into the library, turn the corner to the fish tank and see the saddest/happiest sight a mom can ever see.

There was my precious, little boy shaking and sobbing. He was surrounded by two other "moms" who were reassuring him. We see each other and run. I scoop him up and hold him so close, never going to let him go again.

Me: Sam, I thought you were with us. I thought you were with Emily.

Me to the other moms: We left with a large group and I thought he was with us. (They nod in understanding but I still feel horrible and have a compelling need to explain.)

Sam: I wanted to look at the fish longer. I'll never do that again! I'll never do that again! (still sobbing)

We left the library, both of us shaking and relieved to find each other and join the others. I feel horrible, negligent, afraid for what could have happened!!! How keeps running through my mind.

As I reflect back on it, I still swear I saw his blue shirt in the crowded elevator and running down the hall with the kids. He was with me as we were waiting for Emily to get off the computer. He must have slipped away and I didn't realize it; then he didn't realize we were leaving. Because there were ten of us and I expected him to still be with me; I didn't realize he was missing. But my motherly instincts told me something was wrong. I realized right away that I was missing something. I still thought he was with the other kids as we were walking down the hallway. I thought those feelings were the result of an unusually busy, stressful few weeks.

I'm so relived that he was okay. The horrible feelings of what could have happened didn't go away for awhile. It made me recognize how quick something bad can happen and appreciate my precious, sweet children. Because no matter how frustrating they can be sometimes, the sky would be dark without them.

In the car we had a discussion about what to do when you're lost (i.e. stay right where you are and I'll come back as soon as I realize you are gone; ask other moms with kids for help; don't go with anyone.) He told me as soon as he realized I was gone, he called my name and then started to cry. The other moms told him I would come right back. I did and all ended safely but the thoughts of what might have been still whirl through my mind.

So there you have it-my "horrible mom" story. Sam occasionally says, "Mom, remember when you left me at the library." Oh yeah buddy. I won't be forgetting that one for awhile.

Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life

I recently finished a book titled, Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life by Amy Krouse Rosenthal. The cover says:

I have not survived against all odds.

I have not lived to tell.

I have not witnessed the extraordinary.

This is my story.

I found this to be a humorous book. I would laugh out loud at many parts. When I would read them to Brad he would say, "That is Jenni funny." Meaning, I find things to be funny that he doesn't. But there was a whole Reader's Digest article about the differences in humor in males and females but that is a whole different blog subject.

Let me quote from the book:

Spilled Linguine

I spilled a package of linguine on the kitchen floor. My immediate reaction was, What a bummer, what a waste. But then: Wait a second, it's going directly into a pot of boiling water. Sterilizing these noodles and cooking them are one and the same. Cool.

Sleep

I love sleeping. I love falling asleep on the couch, in the car, on trains, in the sun. I love getting into bed at night, and whenever possible, sleeping late in the morning. I love beds and covers and quilts and pillows. I just love everything about sleeping.

Potato Chips

When I eat potato chips, particularly the crunchy kettle kind, I find myself looking through the bag for the good chips. Somehow a good chip is one that is extra thick looking, and curled onto itself or folded, as opposed to straight and flat. It is a treat, a victory, to find a really good chip and pluck it from the bag. The thinner, straight, or broken ones aren't nearly as pleasing.

That is what Brad calls Jenni funny. I think it is hilarious! Maybe because I have thought those same things but never considered writing them down. I like how Amy writes what she thinks. I have often thought weird things like this but I have never written any of them down. If I ever started a personal blog it would be titled Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Mom.

Emily Sings

Today in Sacrament Meeting, Emily sang with two of her friends, Rachelle B. and Haley T. Rachelle's mom, Teri, organized this sweet little group to sing the song, My Heavenly Father Loves Me. I didn't think Emily would go through with it. I thought she would be too shy. But she got up there and sang her little heart out.

She practiced diligently to prepare for this moment. She listened to it in the car over and over. She sang it all day Saturday and during the ride to church just to make sure she got it. She looked forward to practicing this morning with "the microphone." She reminded me all week that we had to go to church early to practice (I forgot last Sunday-oops).

Yesterday, while Brad and I were Christmas shopping online (fun!). Emily dressed up in her pretty Christmas dress (of 2 years ago), combed her hair and put in several barrettes (a little girl can never have too many), and set up a little chapel. She used the vacuum as the podium (with a box to stand on) and boxes for benches. She called Brad, Sam, and me to a special meeting. She had us start with a prayer, then she sang her song so beautifully, and then we ended with a prayer. It was so sweet.

I am amazed at how grown up she has become. I am so proud of her. If it was me I would have been shaking in my boots. It's moments like these that Brad and I look at each other and smile; we are both thinking the same thing.

My Room Smells Like a Monkey

As I was putting Sam to bed tonight he said, "My room smells like a monkey."

I have to admit it does smell like a monkey and for the life of me I can't figure out why! I have washed all the sheets and blankets, taken out the trash, washed everything in the hamper and I even washed all pajamas. It is driving me crazy!

Wait--maybe it is my kids! They act like monkeys most of the time and we call them our little monkeys. Could it be???

This is a weird post. Sorry.

Halloween - Trick or Treating!

On Halloween night we went Trick or Treating around the neighborhood. Our evening started with our traditional dinner of chili (my mom always served chili Halloween night). Last year Sam complained most of the night that he was cold, so this year I bundled them up!!!! At around 4 o'clock it was really windy and cold so I layered the kids for maximum warmth. Emily wore knit tights, sweat pants, a long sleeved shirt, sweat shirt, snow pants, coat and then a princess costume over it. She wore her sparkly pink shoes but I had to run back home and get her tennis shoes because they were uncomfortable with tights and 2 pairs of socks on. Sam wore sweat pants, a turtle neck shirt, a jacket, snow pants, his coat, and a foam Superman costume that velcroed on over his coat. Each kid had gloves and hats. Ben wore a warm sleeper and his very cozy alligator, dragon, lizard, or dinosaur costume. We pushed him in the stroller bundled in a blanket. So I was prepared for cold wind and chilly temperatures.

Now dare the weather not cooperate!

It turned out that the wind had died down to nothing and the temperature was quite mild. Just their pants, long sleeve shirts and a coat would have been plenty warm. Especially for Emily since she RAN from house to house trying to get as much candy as possible. Poor Sam-he was so bundled that he looked like the little brother on A Christmas Story. I felt so bad. He could hardly walk up the porch steps to get his candy. Brad had to carry him most of the time to keep up with Emily. But at least they were not cold!

I trick or treated with them for awhile since I wanted to take Ben with us but then I went home, put Ben to bed, and handed out our candy (I always buy too much!). Here is what our front porch looked like for the Trick or Treaters (there are orange lights around the door-my camera works better in the dark than I thought).
After about an hour of trick or treating Emily, Sam and Brad came home with TONS of candy. They had a great time. They met up with our neighbors across the street and they had fun running from house to house with Anders and Alyssa.

Once they came home and detangled themselves of their mother's crazy bundling, they had to inspect their loot. Notice in the picture that Emily is sorting her candy (just like I used to do).

After inspecting all their candy, Brad had them do something he had to as a kid. When Brad was growing up, he had to split his candy with his Dad and his brother had to split it with his mom-50-50. I always thought this was so mean and I especially didn't like the idea of a 50-50 split. But Brad felt it was an important lesson so we agreed on 10-90. We had the kids pick 9 pieces they wanted and then we took 1 piece. I felt bad doing this at first but then I felt like it taught them a good lesson. First, you don't always get to keep everything to make i.e. taxes; second, sharing. It was hard at first but I think it taught them an important lesson. Besides we didn't take anything we knew they really liked. I think we will do it again next year.

It was a fun night and the kids had a blast. Surprisingly, they still have most of their candy left. It has been 11 days and they really have not eaten much. They play with it more than eat it. Emily gives it as prizes for games she makes up and she shares it with friends when they come to play. Emily is just like me in that way. My Halloween candy always lasted for months (that is if Traci didn't get to it first!) Sorry Traci-I couldn't resist putting that in (Love Ya!)

Preschool Halloween Party

For the past 3 years, I have hosted our preschool's Halloween party. I figure since I have the games, decorations, and plan, why not. It is different kids every year; no one knows the difference. It was really fun to do this with Sam. He has always tagged along for Emily's activities but this party was my first for Sam and his friends. I did a few different activities with Sam's group because it is mostly boys. The kids below are (L - R) Mason-Peter Pan, Blake-Anakin Skywalker, Sam-Spiderman (Don't ya love the slippers! He insisted on wearing them and he has on Spiderman underpants :-), Alyssa-princess, Sarah-cheerleader (Mason's older sister who has afternoon kindergarten).
We did a few crafts-decorated a bag with Halloween stamps for our goodies and prizes, made a Halloween necklace (we do have one girl), and made bat hats.

Then we learned all about bats (I couldn't have a preschool party without some education involved!). I read them a story about bats. It ended with what bats eat (insects, spiders, snakes, etc) so then we pretended to be bats (we were wearing our nifty bat hats) and went on a bug hunt. I had placed about 50 plastic bugs (I bought them last year after Halloween on clearance for 50 cents! What a bargain!!!) all around the yard and the kids collected them in their bags. Thankfully, it was a pleasant day and the kids had fun running around looking for "bugs to eat". After some playtime we ate spiders for snack (Ritz crackers spread with peanut butter, stick pretzels for legs [yes, I know spiders have 8 legs but 6 just fit better on the cracker], chocolate chips for eyes) and then played Halloween Bingo with candy corns for covers and candy for prizes (it is a Halloween party). Everyone had a great time. The kids were so cute in their costumes. Emily came home from Kindergarten before everyone left and was able to have some fun as well. Another fun Halloween party! I wonder if I'll have to do one next year?

Trunk or Treat

The Friday before Halloween we went to the ward's annual Trunk or Treat activity at the church. It was a rainy day so the activities were moved inside. I was glad because then I did not have to bundle the kids for the cold weather. Here are Sam and Emily all ready for some candy collectin'! Ben's costume (alligator, dragon, lizard, dinosaur, whatever) was too bulky for his car seat so we took it with us. He fell asleep before we got there so Brad used his costume as a prop to hand out the candy. He put the bowl of candy inside the costume and lifted the the alligator's head/mouth to retrieve the candy. As he lifted the head, he would growl. Ben woke up as Brad was handing out the candy. He watched and listened while Brad gave out the candy. Soon Ben would growl right along with Brad. It was quite a scene.

Here's a picture we took of Ben on Halloween night.

Experiment Open

In order to get more of my family to read my blog, I am trying an experiment. I have now change my blog from private to open to all. We'll see if it helps. Feel free to comment.

But you didn't say...

We met Brad for dinner the other night. It was a spur of the moment kind of outing. I had had a busy day and did not want to cook or mess up my clean kitchen and I had to take the kids to gymnastics and Brad had orchestra so when Brad called to say he was coming home, we decided to meet at Noodles. I told the kids to get in the car so we could meet Dad. They obeyed so quickly and I was so proud of them for getting ready so nicely.

As we were getting out of the car, I noticed Sam did not have on any shoes. He was just in his socks. Here is our conversation:
Me: Sam, where are your shoes (assuming he either brought them with him or they fell off)?
Sam: I don't have any.
Me: WHY NOT?
Sam: But you didn't say "get your shoes and socks on".
Me: AHHH!

The first flutter of winter

The other day I glanced out the window and saw them... Snowflakes!
They only lasted a moment-not even long enough to call the kids to the window to look. They never made it to the ground but they were there. A reminder that Fall is ending and Winter is coming.

Merry Go Round Music

Brad is in an orchestra and we went to his rehearsal. While we were listening, Sam leans over to me and says, "They aren't playing Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star (what Brad usually plays for the kids at home); they are playing Merry Go Round Music."

I miss you litle blog!

Hello little blog. It has been awhile since I have posted. I have been too busy. I have lots of pictures to post and things to write about but until I get my "to do" list under control you will have to wait. Sorry. I'll see you soon!

Good Genes

We have several oil paintings hanging on our walls that were painted by my grandma and Brad's grandma. We were talking to Emily about them and she mentioned she wanted to paint like her grandmas. I said to her, "Emily, you have a lot of art in your genes." Emily first looks confused then says, "I keep it in my pocket."

Finish the Sentence

I got this from Emma and I thought it was fun!

Finish the Sentence:

My roommates and I once: Had the Southern Utah University men's volleyball team sleep over at our apartment. Totally against Ricks College's rules!!!

Never in my life have I: Had a broken bone

High School was: a long time ago - thank heavens!

When I am nervous: I shake like a leaf in an earthquake.

My hair: Is dark brown and curling since I was pregnant with Ben (normally my hair is straight as a board!)

When I was 5: My brother was born and my grandma sent me to afternoon kindergarten way too early.

When I turn my head left: I see Brad playing his computer game. Poor guy he is getting a cold.

I should be: Sleeping - Ben has kept me awake too often lately.

By this time next year: Brad will be done with residency!!!!! We will be living in Idaho.

My favorite Aunt is: Aunt LaRae. She used to call us her "little boobies." Still don't know why but she did.

My ideal breakfast is: The Lumberjack at LePeep (buttermilk pancakes, sausage, eggs, potatoes)

If you visit my home town: You should come on the 4th of July.

If you spend the night at my house: I'll make you buttermilk pancakes from scratch in the morning.

I shouldn't have been: I have a bad habit of thinking of "shouldn't haves" so I'm not going to finish this one (I'm trying to overcome this bad habit).

Last night I: Blogged when I should have cleaned my house

I've been told I look like: Someone's cousin (I have had that comment many times)

That was fun!

Tagged

Sarah tagged me on her blog. Here it goes...

Jobs that I have had:

• Hamburger maker at Carousel Burger in Lagoon - This was such a fun job. I made a ton of new friends and there was a lot of laughter and joking going on while we worked. I was also a gold badge employee! :-)
• Telephone surveys and then telemarketing in college - I hated it!! Need I say more
• Waitress - I was a waitress at a motel/cafe near the Grand Canyon. This was one of my favorite summers ever! I also met Brad there so of course it was a summer to remember!
• Cashier at BYU's HFAC ticket office (Great job! I got 2 free tickets to any event we sold! A lot of fun for two poor newlyweds.)
• Plant secretary and then Administrative Assistant at a commercial flooring manufacturing plant (1 year each) -I was overqualified for the job but struggled to find a social work job in Houston when we first moved in and rent had to be paid. I learned a lot about people on this job. I knew that if you did not get an education you could end up doing factory work the rest of your life. I learned that I hate dealing with workplace politics. I learned that a good boss it one of the best things in life. When I was promoted to Administrative Assistant, I got a new boss named John. He was great to work for. He even let me work evenings and weekends while I completed my course work for my special ed. teacher training. He then tried to bring me back a couple of years later luring me with more money.
• Special Education Teacher (5 years) - The first year was 5th and 6th grade Resource Reading, Language Arts, and Math (It was a horrible year for many reasons). The last 4 years was Resource Math with co-teaching the last 2 years. I loved working with kids who needed special help. It was wonderful seeing kids who couldn't even count to 10 when I first met them finally be able to multiply and divide by the time they left me. I love seeing their different talents (you'd be surprised at how many special ed students were amazing artists).
• Various secretary related temp jobs - I would do temp work during the summers to make money to go on vacation. I really hated doing these jobs but the extra money was nice. People could be really rude to temp workers. When I told them I was a teacher and temp work just for a few weeks in the summer, they treated me so much better and with more respect.
• Math tutor - I charged $30 per HOUR to teach kids how to do story problems and master their multiplication facts. I have to admit I think I was worth it but surprised at what some parents will pay.
• Full-time Mom - Definitely the hardest job I've ever had.

Movies I could watch over and over again:

• Return to Me
• A Knight's Tale

Favorite TV shows:

• Law and Order (original and Criminal Intent)

Favorite Hobbies:

• Reading
• Blogging
• Scrapbooking (although I done much lately)

Places I have lived:

• Utah
• Idaho
• Arizona
• Texas
• Minnesota
• Florida (does one month count)

Favorite Foods: Do I have to narrow it down?

• my mom’s barbecue spare ribs
• really good pizza
• CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

Places I would rather be right now:

• Someplace where I wouldn't have to worry about my huge TO DO list and maybe have some quiet time
• New York City (with Brad-stay in a beautiful hotel and take in some great shows and sights)
• On an Alaskan cruise with Brad
• I really could go on and on...

Websites I check daily:

• my email
• blogs of my friends (I wish my family would blog!)

Who am I tagging?

• Angela
• Emma
• Vicki - you need to blog!

Ouch!

I was making salsa Friday afternoon for gourmet club. Sam was watching me slice the slippery tomatoes and kept reminding me to be careful with the sharp knives. He was really concerned that I would cut myself. We got a new set of knives awhile back and I didn't realize how sharp they were until I saw the knife slice into my finger. It took a second to realize what I had done and for the pain to come. Then I screamed and started to bleed. Sam and Emily came running and I told them what happened and Sam said, "Mom, I told you to be careful!"

Thankfully, it wasn't too deep, no stitches needed; but it hurts like the dickens! Brad said that the tips of your fingers have a lot of nerves so it hurts worse. I can attest to that!

This experience has made me appreciate my hands because the simplest tasks have become a burden. Any slight pressure on it makes my finger throb (as I type this I have tried to avoid using my sore finger but it is quite difficult). I'm sure it will get better soon but in the mean time I'm glad it wasn't my right hand!

Ben is 6 Months

Ben is now 6 months and I wanted to give an update on what he is doing. Ben is the most delightful baby! He is a bundle of joy. Unless he is hungry, sick or has a messy diaper, he has a smile, a giggle or squeal for anyone. In the morning he usually wakes up really happy. He kicks and grins when he sees me and you can't help but scoop him up and snuggle him (no matter how many times he woke me up at night). I'm so grateful for this ray of sunshine in my life.

At Ben's 6 month appointment, he weighed in at 20 lbs 2.6 oz which put him in the 87% (which is a drop from 92% at 4 months). He is 67 cm long which is 46% (down from 58%). He is now bigger then Emily and Sam were at 1 year old. He is wearing clothes that Sam wore at 10 months. We contribute the drop in weight due to his excessive amounts of moving. He rolls all over the place and can get up on all fours (see below). He can even lift his rear end in the air with his arms and legs straight. He is trying to crawl but has not been able to move his hands forward. So he ends up just going backwards (see picture below again-he has backed himself up against the wall). He is very happy to be rolling and/or scooting on the floor playing with his toys (or anything else that is on the floor).Ben has 2 little teeth on the bottom which accounts for all the drooling you see in the pictures. His hair is coming in BROWN!!!! I'm so excited to finally have a dark haired baby! His eyes will probably be brown as well which Emily and I are also excited about. He is sitting up independently although if he leans forward or backward far enough he will tip over and can't get back up to a sitting position. Ben is starting to babble and often will say ba ba, da da but isn't to consistent about it. He is also very distractable. He won't eat if there is something to watch or listen to.

He just started eating rice cereal. When I first started giving it to him, he did not have any interest so I stopped. But then he started reaching for our food when we ate so I tried it again and he is liking it a lot (which is a first for us-Emily and Sam had nothing to do with baby food). Tonight at dinner he would not nurse before we ate and he fussed all through dinner. I could tell he was hungry so I made him some rice cereal and fed him in his high chair at the table and he was so happy. You could tell he wanted to eat like the rest of the family. He was all smiles and happy squeals because he was just like everyone else. It was strange and hilarious! Ben loves people. He is all smiles for Sam and Emily but he really loves Brad! They have a special "language" they use with each other. Ben will use a squawking sound he only uses with Brad. Brad "talks" back to him. It is amazing. Emily and Sam were such Mommy babies. It is so neat to see Ben so attentive to Brad. I love it. I love to see Brad come and pick him up and give him hugs and play with him just because he wants to. It is so special. I love this adorable baby!

Boys Will Be Boys

Brad and I were cleaning up the toy room last night after the kids were in bed. We came across this stroller that Sam had been playing with. In case you can't tell, it is a boy doll loaded with tools and, of course, a sword. Just what everyone needs when going for a stroller ride.

Dancing Fairy

Emily went to a costume birthday party last weekend. She decided to go as a fairy. Isn't she adorable. I used a small curling iron to create small ringlets in her hair for the first time and she was amazed that her hair could curl like that. She exclaimed, "Can you do the back like that?" After we took this picture, I put pink curly ribbon in her hair. She stated that she would be the "prettiest one at the party!" I think she was.

Benjamin Finds a New Toy

As I was typing the previous post, Ben had been fusing and crying. Brad was holding him and eventually put him on the floor where he continued to fuss. Then he stopped and made the happiest, most delightful sounds. I did not look down but smiled to myself that he was finally happy. After a few minutes, Brad looks down and realizes why he is so happy-he is playing with a tissue. He is sucking it and tearing it as happy and content as can be. He loves to play with paper but we always take it from him as fast as we can. Poor kid-we take it away and he starts to cry again. Being a baby is no fun sometimes.

He is now sleeping soundly in his bed.

"Meatloaf, Peatloaf, I Hate Meatloaf"

Tonight for dinner Brad made a meatloaf. He decided to experiment and used two recipes-his Mom's and Alton Brown's. I generally make my MIL's recipe; it is easy and good.

At the dinner table, the kids, especially Sam, were complaining about eating meatloaf for dinner. We, of course, say all the typical parent-trying-to-make-their-kids-eat things like, "It is really good" and "You can't say you don't like something until you try it", etc. So Emily takes a bite and says, "Yuck, I don't like it." I'm starting to comment about giving it another try until Brad says, "I don't like it either!" This stops me in mid sentence because he made the meatloaf. I taste it and sure enough it is gross!!!! It was too salty! We were so confused. Why would it be too salty? What had we done? After a little investigation we discover there is a misprint in my cookbook. Brad added 1 1/2 tablespoons of salt, as listed in the cookbook, instead of 1 1/2 teaspoons. When he was making it he asked me if I usually put in all the salt and I said yes-not realizing there was a misprint. It is one of those recipes I can make without thinking too much about it so I never realized there was a mistake-until now that is.

So there we were without our main course. No meatloaf to compliment our scalloped potatoes (which were delicious!!!), mixed vegetables and rolls. I have to eat protein with my carbs or else I get sick so Brad saved the day and made hamburger patties.

Next time I'll think twice about making the kids eat something when they say it is yucky. Maybe it really is.

PS The title of this blog is from The Christmas Story when Ralph's little brother doesn't want to eat his meatloaf and his mom is trying to make him. He eventually eats it-piggy style!

PPS If you have a copy of my red cookbook make the change to Dianne's Meatloaf so you don't repeat this experience (if you haven't already-oops).

Another Haircut Saga!

The other day at dinner I mentioned that Emily needs her hair cut or at least her bangs trimmed (see Next Time I'll Just Pay the Money post). "I don't think I'll do it," I said with an exasperated sign. Emily then pronounced happily, "Well, good thing!! I want to go get a sucker!"

I was really tempted to just do it myself to save the money. But I remembered the frustration I felt at my previous attempt so I made appointments for Emily and Sam at the same place I go to in the mall. They cost about the same as Great Clips but I hoped that they would do a better job. I was wrong.

I am really unhappy with their cuts. Sam's is uneven and too long in the back even though I asked her to cut it shorter. I was surprised that she couldn't even do a simple boy cut. He held really still and was very cooperative. Emily's hair cut is just okay-nothing special at all. I honestly could have done a better job and saved the money. I'm so frustrated!!!

Well, at least Emily got a sucker!

New Calling!

I am amazed at how the Lord answers our prayers. I have mentioned how difficult my current calling, Primary Chorister, is for me (see Why Me). After our Sacrament Meeting Program, I talked to the Primary President. We discussed how since I will be moving in June it would be a good idea (okay I just told her outright) it would be better to call a new chorister before January so they can teach the songs for next year. I would be willing to stay on until Christmas if they needed me to. I mean all the pressure is gone of teaching and mastering the songs. Now it is just fun-no stress.

I thought to myself, "What calling would I like to do? " My dream calling is being a Relief Society teacher. I love Relief Society. I have missed it so much. I love being with other women and being taught and inspired by them. I realized that this is what I would really love to do until we move but I knew they had recently called a new teacher and it would not be likely.

After the morning session of General Conference, we received a phone call from a member in the Bishopric. Brother B wanted to come over and meet with us. I hoped it was a new calling but prepared for the worst. Then he asked if I would be a RELIEF SOCIETY INSTRUCTOR!!!!! I was thrilled to say the least. It is just want I wanted! After he left I pondered the calling. It really brought to mind how our Heavenly Father hears and answers our prayers and knows what is in our hearts. Being Primary Chorister was so difficult for me and I did not always do it with a light heart but did grow to like it (sometimes). When I was set apart in that calling, the bishop said that I would be blessed because I trusted the Lord and I believe this new calling is a blessing.

A day or so later I was talking to the Relief Society President about another matter and I mentioned that I accepted the calling and was thrilled. I told her how being Primary Chorister had been a real challenge and I hoped I could be a Relief Society teacher. She mentioned to me that there were many people they thought of to fill the calling of instructor but that my name was the one they felt so sure of without a doubt. It was a further confirmation to me that our Heavenly Father hears and answers our prayers and understands our needs. He loves us so much. This experience has strengthened my testimony and confirmed to me that if we follow His will we will be blessed and grow from whatever struggles we face.

Time Out for Women

I was so fortunate to attend a Time Out for Women in Minneapolis. If you are not familiar with these you should check them out. They are sponsored by Deseret Book and they consist of a day of uplifting speakers and music especially for women.

I attended a TOFW session in San Antonio just before Sam was born and it was one of my favorite days ever! Mostly because Angela, Mindy and I stayed in a Westin Hotel on the Riverwalk. We stayed up late talking (getting in trouble with security) and giggling and having a great time without kids.

When I received a postcard in the mail about one in Minneapolis, I decided to go. I recruited 12 friends from the ward to go and it turned out to be a great day. Hillary Weeks was the host and musical guest. She is one of my favorite LDS musicians. I love her songs (if you haven't heard her, she has a collections CD that is a great addition to any uplifting music collection). She was funny and her music touches the heart and soul. She sang "My Favorite Things" from the Sound of Music but changed the words-part of which included (sing to the tune of Favorite Things) "Bedtime and Naptime and Bedtime and Naptime." I wish I could find all the words because it was funny and true. I love bedtime and naptime at my house. Kids are so cute when they are sleeping.

The other speakers were funny and uplifting as well. Emily Watts was great and Mary Ellen Edmonds is always fun to hear. She said we should be a "happifier" and that happiness is a choice-good things to remember.

After nourishing our souls, we then feasted at The Cheesecake Factory-yummy!!!! Rosemary recommended Linda's Chocolate Fudge Cake (I have to admit, I think the cheesecake at The Cheesecake Factory isn't that great-Salt Grass Steakhouse Cheesecake is sooooo much better!) The chocolate cake was divine!!! Brad and I almost drove 30 minutes out of our way last time we were in The Cities just so we could get another slice.

I arrived home late that night in great spirits and happy to have had a day without kids and cares. Since Ben takes a bottle, I was able to go without him. Brad stayed with the kids all day and they had fun. Thanks Brad for being supportive of my "day off".

Mission Organization

I really like this show.It is on Home and Garden (HGTV). They take an extremely messy room (actually more like a disaster zone) in someone's home and give it an organization makeover. They clean it up and give it a new design to make it more functional for the family and pretty. The reason I like this show is because I love an organized room. Unfortunately, I can't always maintain it. I have the skills to organize and the desire but not always the time. My office is generally in a cluttered state (not as messy as the rooms on the show but cluttered). Even though most things have a place and are organized, I don't always have the time to file or put things away. Also, it seems like I never have the chance to really work on something without being interrupted and at night I'm too tired. This show is fun to watch because you see how beautiful and function a room can be. I hope in my next house, I'll be able to create an organized office (and maybe invest in some beautiful storage boxes, baskets, cabinets whatever). Right now I'll just settle for functional and keep watching Mission Organization for great ideas!

Happy Birthday Mom

It is my Mom's Birthday and I'd like to give her a blog tribute! Here are a few great things about my mom:

• Mom is the best grandma in the world. She spoils her grandkids to no end. She always has time for them. She will drop everything when they are around to be with them. You'll often find her taking grandkids for a stroller ride, sneaking them treats (even before or for breakfast), and setting up a couch for them in her room to watch a movie. She always has something special for them and they love her to pieces because they know Grandma loves them so much and always has time for them!!!
• Mom is so helpful in her own special way. After the birth of each of my children, she has been there for me. She comes and helps so much. She just loves to hold and cuddle her grandbabies. When I had my wisdom teeth out and when Sam and then Ben were born, she took over the care of my kids. She did everything for them while I recovered. She then apologized that she didn't help more. I mean isn't that crazy. What more could I ask for? When I weened Sam, Mom was visiting and she got up at night with him so he wouldn't want to nurse. She does so much despite her arthritic hands and knees. Thanks Mom!
• Mom is so thoughtful and generous. She knows what each of her children like and want and makes it happen. When we go grocery shopping together she asks, "Is there anything you want but were afraid to ask?" It means can I buy you something that you wouldn't buy for yourself. When she comes to visit she brings something special for each of us. She likes to go shopping and let us pick out something we need. She also knows each child's style and what they would or would not wear. She is amazing!
• Mom is funny. Brad thinks is it odd (good odd) but when we get together we often find ourselves giggling and laughing over something that was said. She has shared that characteristic with her daughters especially. It is so fun and refreshing!
• She is my best friend! I love my mom so much. We have so much in common. I hope that I can be like her in so many ways.

Have a Happy Birthday Mom! We Love You!