Tanya had asked me to take some pictures of purple flowers for a friend of hers. I took quite a few pictures, but I didn't get any that I really loved. I definitely need more practice!
Showing posts with label Ramblings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ramblings. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Learning the Ropes
I'm still working on learning how to use the camera. Unfortunately I don't have nearly as much time to spend with it as I would like. I took a few more shots of the flowers downtown, since my lunch break seems to be the only time I can squeeze in some quality time with the camera.
Tanya had asked me to take some pictures of purple flowers for a friend of hers. I took quite a few pictures, but I didn't get any that I really loved. I definitely need more practice!
Tanya had asked me to take some pictures of purple flowers for a friend of hers. I took quite a few pictures, but I didn't get any that I really loved. I definitely need more practice!
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Hermana Dinner
Some of the "Herms" from my mission got together at our Mission President's house for a Dominican feast last Friday.
I wasn't sure how well I would do with the food. To be honest, thinking of Dominican food kind of makes my stomach turn. Nearly 8 years later, I still cannot eat rice and beans together.
I was pleasantly surprised though. The food tasted really good to me (miracles!) most likely because of the talented ladies that made it and the great company.
Thank goodness el Presidente got the chicken foot. This one had longer claws than normal and totally freaked me out. (I woke up to chickens being slaughtered outside our bathroom window for 6 months. I will never forget the flapping sound as they hit the bucket...{shudder}.)
I wasn't the only one that enjoyed the food. Look at those clean plates!
I had a wonderful time eating and chatting with everyone. It has been way too long since I have seen most of them.
Pres. and Sis. J. were gracious and kind hosts as usual. I feel so privileged to have served with such an amazing bunch.
Thanks to Perry and Sis. J. for organizing it, especially on a night I could be there!
Thursday, March 26, 2009
We've been busy...
We ran to the park. 
While we were there, we were treated to a new 5 year old phenomenon - POUTING. Kenna is using this new tool at every opportunity.
I am not amused.
Lyssa played while Kenna sulked.
She finally cheered up long enough to chase a remote control airplane around with about 500 other neighborhood kids that were taking advantage of the weather.
Lyssa ran her little heart out. She really wanted to catch the plane.
We had sandwiches...big ones. Lyssa showed proper etiquette by raising that dainty pinky finger every time she took a bite.
Liam played with Mom while Dad tried to get the external flash on the camera up and running. (He finally found it after several years of being hidden in a box.)
We tried out a yummy new donut place. I fell in love with the green one. I think Key Lime is one of my new favorite flavors.
We raced paper airplanes. (Bad picture of me. Yuck. But you can see the shorter hair. I was having a hard time getting the remote picture taking timed just right. Also note the amount of sincere effort the girls put into throwing those planes.) We got a chance to try out our new tripod with this picture. Yay for more camera equipment!
And we got girly. Liam escaped sans curlers, but only because his hair isn't long enough for the girls to put one in it.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Cruise - The Backstory
In order to understand why this trip was such a crazy thing, I have to give a little backstory about how we even got there in the first place.
On Feb. 10th, my dad had an appointment with his oncologist. The doctor noticed that my dad’s PSA numbers were starting to rapidly jump again (from the mid 300’s to the high 700’s in a month) and let him know that they would need to start chemo again soon. He also told him that the chemo would be less effective this time, so they wouldn’t do as many treatments (3-4 instead of the 9 he had before). The only treatment available after that would be an experimental pill they are testing in Vegas that would require them to drive down there often for check-ups.
He suggested that if there was anywhere my dad wanted to go, or anything he wanted to see, he should probably go before his next appointment, because he would likely not be well enough again. His next appointment was scheduled for the 3rd of March.
So, on the way home from the appointment that day, my siblings sort of joked a little about going on a cruise - something my parents have wanted to do for quite a while - to try and lighten the mood a little. I guess at some point my sister Lori whipped out her handy iPhone and started looking around the internet for cruise deals.
I'll spare all the details on how they eventually ended up finding something, but it was sort of miraculous how it all worked out. They ended up with an itinerary that my dad had really wanted that was leaving the following Sunday.
My sister called that evening and told me about the trip. She said that they were trying to get all the siblings to go along, that it would be a great trip, etc. My heart sort of sank. I knew there was no way I could go. We wouldn't have anyone to watch the kids while Matt was at work, my passport had expired, I didn't know if I could get work off, an old friend was coming for a visit during the same week, we didn't have the money...yeah, you get the idea. I told her I wouldn't be able to go.
I mentioned it when I talked to Matt on the phone that night. But didn't really say too much because I had pretty much decided it was impossible. I didn't really think too much more about it until I got home from work on Wednesday and Matt called me. He doesn't normally call me from work unless it's something really important so when I answered I was a slightly worried. He just said, "Can you get next week off work?" and I sort of panicked inside, not sure why he would be asking. I told him him I probably could and when I asked why he said, "I've been working things out with your sister. You're going on the cruise. You need to call her right now and give her the credit card number."
I was floored. The only thing I could do was cry. I hadn't realized how much it meant to me to go until he said I was going with them. He had been working all day to get work off for the next week and to get things arranged with my sister. He said he thought I'd regret it if I didn't go and chances like this only come around once in a great while. I called my sister, gave her the information she needed, hung up the phone and then sat down on the kitchen floor and just cried. I was overwhelmed.
There were a million things running through my brain...mostly just the gratitude for my amazing husband and his willingness to sacrifice so much for me and for the amazing opportunity to spend the time with my parents and siblings.
That and I was panicking when I realized I only had three days to get everything put together.
On Feb. 10th, my dad had an appointment with his oncologist. The doctor noticed that my dad’s PSA numbers were starting to rapidly jump again (from the mid 300’s to the high 700’s in a month) and let him know that they would need to start chemo again soon. He also told him that the chemo would be less effective this time, so they wouldn’t do as many treatments (3-4 instead of the 9 he had before). The only treatment available after that would be an experimental pill they are testing in Vegas that would require them to drive down there often for check-ups.
He suggested that if there was anywhere my dad wanted to go, or anything he wanted to see, he should probably go before his next appointment, because he would likely not be well enough again. His next appointment was scheduled for the 3rd of March.
So, on the way home from the appointment that day, my siblings sort of joked a little about going on a cruise - something my parents have wanted to do for quite a while - to try and lighten the mood a little. I guess at some point my sister Lori whipped out her handy iPhone and started looking around the internet for cruise deals.
I'll spare all the details on how they eventually ended up finding something, but it was sort of miraculous how it all worked out. They ended up with an itinerary that my dad had really wanted that was leaving the following Sunday.
My sister called that evening and told me about the trip. She said that they were trying to get all the siblings to go along, that it would be a great trip, etc. My heart sort of sank. I knew there was no way I could go. We wouldn't have anyone to watch the kids while Matt was at work, my passport had expired, I didn't know if I could get work off, an old friend was coming for a visit during the same week, we didn't have the money...yeah, you get the idea. I told her I wouldn't be able to go.
I mentioned it when I talked to Matt on the phone that night. But didn't really say too much because I had pretty much decided it was impossible. I didn't really think too much more about it until I got home from work on Wednesday and Matt called me. He doesn't normally call me from work unless it's something really important so when I answered I was a slightly worried. He just said, "Can you get next week off work?" and I sort of panicked inside, not sure why he would be asking. I told him him I probably could and when I asked why he said, "I've been working things out with your sister. You're going on the cruise. You need to call her right now and give her the credit card number."
I was floored. The only thing I could do was cry. I hadn't realized how much it meant to me to go until he said I was going with them. He had been working all day to get work off for the next week and to get things arranged with my sister. He said he thought I'd regret it if I didn't go and chances like this only come around once in a great while. I called my sister, gave her the information she needed, hung up the phone and then sat down on the kitchen floor and just cried. I was overwhelmed.
There were a million things running through my brain...mostly just the gratitude for my amazing husband and his willingness to sacrifice so much for me and for the amazing opportunity to spend the time with my parents and siblings.
That and I was panicking when I realized I only had three days to get everything put together.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
St. Patrick would be proud...
Oh boy did we celebrate! I was feeling bad that the girls didn't get to go to school and partake of all the activities today...so we decided to liven things up a little at home.
We made green pancakes for dinner (I couldn't think of anything Irish and that was the best bet for food coloring).
We made green pancakes for dinner (I couldn't think of anything Irish and that was the best bet for food coloring).
To be followed by green cupcakes with green frosting and green sprinkles.
I'm sure we had waaaaaay too much food coloring.
But, it had the great side effect of making Kenna forget about being sick for a couple of hours. Which means, I think she's feeling better, she's just stringing it out in order to get more "green drink". ("green drink" = Sprite - since it comes in the green bottles they think it's green, even though we've pointed out it is not green once you pour it out.)
I really hope no one else comes down with this one. I can do colds, but Sunday night was a LONG one and I have no desire to do more throw up laundry. Yuck. Plus Kenna insisting that she has to carry a bowl around everywhere is embarrassing. It's awkward to explain that at the grocery store.
Also, did I mention that Liam is tall enough to get an open yogurt container off the kitchen table?
Awesome. I love cleaning up after these munchkins.
But, it had the great side effect of making Kenna forget about being sick for a couple of hours. Which means, I think she's feeling better, she's just stringing it out in order to get more "green drink". ("green drink" = Sprite - since it comes in the green bottles they think it's green, even though we've pointed out it is not green once you pour it out.)
I really hope no one else comes down with this one. I can do colds, but Sunday night was a LONG one and I have no desire to do more throw up laundry. Yuck. Plus Kenna insisting that she has to carry a bowl around everywhere is embarrassing. It's awkward to explain that at the grocery store.
Also, did I mention that Liam is tall enough to get an open yogurt container off the kitchen table?
Awesome. I love cleaning up after these munchkins.
Friday, March 13, 2009
See, this is why I don't do well with journals...
So I guess I've proven that, once again, I cannot be trusted to write on a regular basis.
When I get busy, writing goes out the window.
Boo.
I suck.
It turns out that when you leave on a week long vacation with only three days notice,
things pile up while you're gone and the kids seem to want extra attention when you get home.
Who'd 'a thunk?
A recap of the vacation (with photos!) is coming. In the meantime,
A recap of the vacation (with photos!) is coming. In the meantime,
here's a little of what we have been up to this week.
On Sunday morning, Liam and McKenna woke up with colds.
On Sunday morning, Liam and McKenna woke up with colds.
Blast.
Matt wasn't feeling all that hot either so he stayed home with the sickly ones
while Alyssa and I went to Church.
Monday was better. McKenna magically got over the cold in a day just in time for her best neighborhood pal Rachel, to come over and play.
Monday was better. McKenna magically got over the cold in a day just in time for her best neighborhood pal Rachel, to come over and play.
They disappeared into the toy room for an hour.
It was heavenly. I actually got to cook dinner in relative peace.
Bless you Heidi for letting her stay.
Tuesday ended up being doctor day. Liam had cried all night.
Tuesday ended up being doctor day. Liam had cried all night.
(I have no idea how the girls slept through it because Matt and I sure didn't.)
He was wheezing and rattling and generally sounding terrible that morning.
Since I was going in to work late because of my own appointment anyway,
I ended up just calling in sick and then taking Liam to the doctor.
Double ear infections and RSV do not make for a happy baby.
The nebulizer treatment at the doctors office worked wonders
(WONDERS I tell you!)
Albuterol inhaler and children's mask
Liam HATES it but we are finally getting sleep and wondering how we have managed so far without this. Someone finally decided that when the kid is constantly getting bad colds that go straight to his chest, he might have some asthma issues like his older sister.
Hallelujah!
Wednesday was haircut day for most of us. My sweet niece Shannon got her license a week or two ago and we were privileged to be the first in line for family haircut night.
McKenna (surprisingly) volunteered to go first.
Her request was that her hair stay long enough to still be considered princess hair (even though she knows it probably won't get as long as Rapunzel's).
Then Alyssa (not a fan of the spray bottle).
I went next, leaving about 5-6 inches on the floor, in the hopes that shorter hair would induce the beginning of spring. (No pictures until my cold sore goes away.) I'll let you know how that spring thing works out.
And Liam was last.
It took three people and a dog to get him finished.
Shannon did a phenomenal job in spite of the fact that he wouldn't hold still for more than 5 seconds at a time. (Not exaggerating.)
Thursday was date night. We actually went out to a MOVIE. And then dinner, with FRIENDS.
I wasn't sure either of those activities could still be done!
So we are sick again, but on the mend, no doubt thanks to the new fabu haircuts from Shannon. I'm getting spring fever so I hope the magic haircut works!
Friday, January 23, 2009
Ranting and Rambling...(might want to skip this post)
Yesterday was not my favorite day.
My morning prayers started out asking for help to understand and complete some things I had for a big deadline at work. Let's just say, I wasn't specific enough when I asked for understanding.
I meant "please give me a light bulb moment in which everything becomes clear and I magically get all this really hard stuff done."
I got "here, let me show you how you have been doing this wrong all along and you will understand how you need to do this in the future because you will be redoing everything from the whole last year."
So my prayer was answered, but totally not what I meant.
I was tired.
The inversion made me grumpy.
And I was really mad at myself for not seeing the problem sooner.
But, at least I had a date with my hubby to look forward to.
When I got home, Liam seemed like he was breathing kind of shallow and fast. I didn't think too much of it, but I thought I ought to call the doctor anyway, just to make sure. The nurse was busy, so I made an appointment for the next day and asked that she call me back when she could.
Matt and I got ready to go out. He picked up my niece to baby-sit for us and we left.
Halfway to the restaurant, I got a call from the doctor's office. I briefly explained what was going on with Liam and they told me I had to get him checked out that night.
We ended up in the doctor's office at 7:45. (Who knew they were open so late?) Turns out the poor kid had an ear infection and fever of 102.5 by the time we got him all checked out.
Next stop - Walgreens for the prescription. I've never been to a Walgreens before. I don't know that I'll go back. They kind of scare me.
Matt took my niece home while I got the kids medicated and in bed. (Lyssa still has a cough and Liam needed to take his prescription for the ear.)
Little did we know, the night was just starting. Between Alyssa and Liam, we were making trips upstairs about every 10 minutes. Liam was fussing and coughing. At one point, he threw up all over everything, completely covering himself and me. Lyssa was whimpering and crying all night. How is that not supposed to break your heart? I hate it when they are sick.
After another doctor's visit this morning, we found out Alyssa's ears are both infected.
We have so much medication in our fridge.
I have had enough. SERIOUSLY.
Also, I want a do-over on the date night. Doctor's offices are not fun places for dates.
My morning prayers started out asking for help to understand and complete some things I had for a big deadline at work. Let's just say, I wasn't specific enough when I asked for understanding.
I meant "please give me a light bulb moment in which everything becomes clear and I magically get all this really hard stuff done."
I got "here, let me show you how you have been doing this wrong all along and you will understand how you need to do this in the future because you will be redoing everything from the whole last year."
So my prayer was answered, but totally not what I meant.
I was tired.
The inversion made me grumpy.
And I was really mad at myself for not seeing the problem sooner.
But, at least I had a date with my hubby to look forward to.
When I got home, Liam seemed like he was breathing kind of shallow and fast. I didn't think too much of it, but I thought I ought to call the doctor anyway, just to make sure. The nurse was busy, so I made an appointment for the next day and asked that she call me back when she could.
Matt and I got ready to go out. He picked up my niece to baby-sit for us and we left.
Halfway to the restaurant, I got a call from the doctor's office. I briefly explained what was going on with Liam and they told me I had to get him checked out that night.
We ended up in the doctor's office at 7:45. (Who knew they were open so late?) Turns out the poor kid had an ear infection and fever of 102.5 by the time we got him all checked out.
Next stop - Walgreens for the prescription. I've never been to a Walgreens before. I don't know that I'll go back. They kind of scare me.
Matt took my niece home while I got the kids medicated and in bed. (Lyssa still has a cough and Liam needed to take his prescription for the ear.)
Little did we know, the night was just starting. Between Alyssa and Liam, we were making trips upstairs about every 10 minutes. Liam was fussing and coughing. At one point, he threw up all over everything, completely covering himself and me. Lyssa was whimpering and crying all night. How is that not supposed to break your heart? I hate it when they are sick.
After another doctor's visit this morning, we found out Alyssa's ears are both infected.
We have so much medication in our fridge.
I have had enough. SERIOUSLY.
Also, I want a do-over on the date night. Doctor's offices are not fun places for dates.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Inversion Fun!
Here in Utah, we have this really fun thing called an Inversion. It's awesome. Here's what it looks like outside right now.
See that haze? It's so bad, it looks like fog. Let's think about that for a second - SMOG that is thick enough to look like FOG.
Lovely.
A friend and I walked about 2 blocks to lunch yesterday. By the time we got back, my head was pounding, I was dizzy and my lungs burned.
Apparently it's so bad, that it is "now unhealthy for the general public." NICE.
If I didn't I have funny kids to keep me entertained while we're cooped up in the house I might be even more disturbed by this.
The other day, Alyssa and I were in the kitchen making some Aebelskivers for breakfast. We were talking about what we were putting into the bowls, what happens when you beat egg whites, etc. when out of the blue she says, "Mom, I only kiss boys I love."
So I said, "Oh really? Have you kissed anyone?"
She tilted her head to the side, thought about it for a second and said, "Yes."
Okay, for starters, this came totally out of the blue. Smack in the middle of the egg white conversation we were having. Also, she's three. I thought we wouldn't be having this discussion until at least 14.
"Oh? Who have you kissed?"
She scrunched up her face and thought for another second, "Well....a rebel storm trooper....and...Luke. Luke Skywalker."
I think we're going to be telling Daddy, no more Star Wars movies for a while.
See that haze? It's so bad, it looks like fog. Let's think about that for a second - SMOG that is thick enough to look like FOG.
Lovely.
A friend and I walked about 2 blocks to lunch yesterday. By the time we got back, my head was pounding, I was dizzy and my lungs burned.
Apparently it's so bad, that it is "now unhealthy for the general public." NICE.
If I didn't I have funny kids to keep me entertained while we're cooped up in the house I might be even more disturbed by this.
The other day, Alyssa and I were in the kitchen making some Aebelskivers for breakfast. We were talking about what we were putting into the bowls, what happens when you beat egg whites, etc. when out of the blue she says, "Mom, I only kiss boys I love."
So I said, "Oh really? Have you kissed anyone?"
She tilted her head to the side, thought about it for a second and said, "Yes."
Okay, for starters, this came totally out of the blue. Smack in the middle of the egg white conversation we were having. Also, she's three. I thought we wouldn't be having this discussion until at least 14.
"Oh? Who have you kissed?"
She scrunched up her face and thought for another second, "Well....a rebel storm trooper....and...Luke. Luke Skywalker."
I think we're going to be telling Daddy, no more Star Wars movies for a while.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Inaguaration Day
I really wanted to watch the inauguration today. Too bad work has to interrupt my TV viewing schedule. I did get to see snippets of it when I was at my parents' house this evening. (Sidenote: Is it just me or does Obama sort of sound like a preacher? Something about the intonation he uses and the inflection in his voice.)
I was amazed at the number of people that turned out for the actual ceremony. It will be interesting to see what he does with all the support he has right now. Because of the way Obama sold his ticket on the campaign trail, it seems like he is sort of the people's last hope for government to prove that they are trustworthy and will come through on their promises. He has made so many promises and instilled that Hope into so many I just wonder - what happens if he can't follow through?
I don't envy his position. What a weight to carry on the shoulders of one man! Although he has great power, he can't follow through on anything without many other people supporting laws and bills the way they are written. Is it wrong to put all of the responsibility for getting it done squarely on his shoulders?
Wrong or not, it appears that the entire country, and much of the rest of the world, is now looking to him to solve a LOT of big problems. As much as I disagree with some of his politics, I sincerely hope that he is able to follow through. I pray for him, and those that surround him, to have the strength, insight and support that they need to effect the changes we need to get back on our feet.
I was amazed at the number of people that turned out for the actual ceremony. It will be interesting to see what he does with all the support he has right now. Because of the way Obama sold his ticket on the campaign trail, it seems like he is sort of the people's last hope for government to prove that they are trustworthy and will come through on their promises. He has made so many promises and instilled that Hope into so many I just wonder - what happens if he can't follow through?
I don't envy his position. What a weight to carry on the shoulders of one man! Although he has great power, he can't follow through on anything without many other people supporting laws and bills the way they are written. Is it wrong to put all of the responsibility for getting it done squarely on his shoulders?
Wrong or not, it appears that the entire country, and much of the rest of the world, is now looking to him to solve a LOT of big problems. As much as I disagree with some of his politics, I sincerely hope that he is able to follow through. I pray for him, and those that surround him, to have the strength, insight and support that they need to effect the changes we need to get back on our feet.
Weekend projects and picture blow-out
Whew! It was so nice to have a good long weekend at home to work on some projects. I could have used a few more days, but it's amazing how much of a difference even one extra day at home can make with my motivation to undertake a project.
I bought some letters for the kids rooms waaaaay back in October and they have been sitting in the basement bugging me to finish them ever since. Saturday morning I gave in and hauled them out of their hiding place.
Here is what the girls' names look like all finished and hanging on the wall:
Detail on the letters.
Here are the planets we made a while back, hung up on the ceiling.
I did get Liam's done as well, but it was late in the evening and the sick kiddies wanted snuggles instead of pictures.
Yes...sick again. Seriously. My mom even commented the other day that it seems like we have been sick for the last 6 months straight. I am on a campaign to rid the house of whatever germs are at the root of it. I have been busting out the bleach at every opportunity. I will win eventually!
The weekend also brought a new tooth for Liam (FINALLY!). He's up to 3, all on the bottom, and only two weeks shy of his first birthday. He almost did as well as I did...I didn't get my first tooth until 13 months.
Here he is showing off some of his amazing new skills:
(Check out the very sick sister in the background.
Liam attacked us while we were playing.
Tired McKenna, still snuggling with Hippo.
I bought some letters for the kids rooms waaaaay back in October and they have been sitting in the basement bugging me to finish them ever since. Saturday morning I gave in and hauled them out of their hiding place.
Here is what the girls' names look like all finished and hanging on the wall:
Detail on the letters.
Here are the planets we made a while back, hung up on the ceiling. I did get Liam's done as well, but it was late in the evening and the sick kiddies wanted snuggles instead of pictures.
Yes...sick again. Seriously. My mom even commented the other day that it seems like we have been sick for the last 6 months straight. I am on a campaign to rid the house of whatever germs are at the root of it. I have been busting out the bleach at every opportunity. I will win eventually!
The weekend also brought a new tooth for Liam (FINALLY!). He's up to 3, all on the bottom, and only two weeks shy of his first birthday. He almost did as well as I did...I didn't get my first tooth until 13 months.
Here he is showing off some of his amazing new skills:
(Check out the very sick sister in the background. Asthma + bad chest cold = miserable Lyssa)
And since I finally found my camera cable, here a few more pictures from happier and less sick days.
Matt's Birthday
Playing with the dress-ups they got for Christmas. Check out the pirate hook on Lyssa's hand.
The tutus I made them for Christmas are a big hit.
Happy Lyssa
Liam making faces.
Kenna being a ballerina.
Goofing off with the camera, making faces.
And since I finally found my camera cable, here a few more pictures from happier and less sick days.
Matt's Birthday
Playing with the dress-ups they got for Christmas. Check out the pirate hook on Lyssa's hand.
The tutus I made them for Christmas are a big hit.
Happy Lyssa
Liam making faces. 
Kenna being a ballerina.
Goofing off with the camera, making faces. 
Liam attacked us while we were playing.
Tired McKenna, still snuggling with Hippo. (Hippo has been her best friend and constant companion since she could hold on to her.)
Monday, January 12, 2009
Pedophobia
I had my first opportunity to teach my new Primary class yesterday.
Before I tell you how it went let me just add a little back story.
I don't relate well to little kids. I never have. Even when I was a little kid. I spent a lot of time with adults, and I LIKED it. A lot.
So this 'relating to children' thing is a bit of a mystery to me. Turns out, it's a pretty helpful skill to have when you need to get 10 kids to sit down and listen to you for an hour.
The other thing is-surprise, surprise-we have a sick baby at our house so I was 'functioning' on very little sleep.
With those things in mind, here is how the day started.
I stumbled out of bed at about 8:15 (we have 9:00 Church) when Alyssa woke everyone up with her screaming. Something about running into the wall and hitting her head.
I vaguely remember getting Liam out of the crib and taking the girls downstairs to try and find something to eat. There was a lot of crying and a lot of yelling.
"Put our waffles on one big white plate so we can share!"
"DADADADADADA"
"You didn't put butter on them!"
"MAMAMAMAMA"
"MOM, Lyssa dropped a piece of her waffle on the FLOOR."
ETC.
Meanwhile, I was trying to get breakfast for myself, review my lesson again, and pull together every one's clothes.
Yes, this is the kind of organization you would see in our house most Sunday mornings. And yes, I am ashamed.
I made it to Church with the girls about 10 minutes late (Matt stayed home with Liam). I had planned on going over the lesson a time or two more during Sacrament Meeting, but I got interested in the talks and forgot. (That and a little boy sitting behind us threw up halfway through. Yikes.)
As soon as Sacrament Meeting was over, the panic set in. (Why do I get more nervous teaching 10 Five-year-olds than I do teaching a room of adult women?)
I went to Sharing Time. We were so busy trying to keep the kids' shoes on, ties on, backsides in chairs and eyes focused that it was over in a heartbeat.
Oh the fear! (And five-year-olds sense fear.)
My mind went blank.
I was sweating.
And then...
IT WAS OVER.
I only vaguely remember teaching the lesson. I told a couple stories, asked some questions, sang a song (poorly) and we colored. At least I think that's what happened. It's kind of a blur at this point. (I'm adding blurring memories to my list of blessings.)
I do remember that the Sister who teaches the class with me is amazing. She kept both me and the kids on track.
This whole Primary thing will definitely be one of my trials this year. (I'm sure one of many...) But for the first time, and kind of in spite of myself, I'm actually excited to be in this class. I'm not completely sure why (probably just because I'm masochistic like that) but I'm just going to go with it.
p.s. Pedophobia - Fear of children
p.p.s. I will post pictures as soon as I find the cable to my camera. Apparently, the card reader in my OLD computer will not read the new SD card I got for the camera.
p.p.p.s. Have I mentioned that I really (really) like parenthesis? (Like REALLY.)
Before I tell you how it went let me just add a little back story.
I don't relate well to little kids. I never have. Even when I was a little kid. I spent a lot of time with adults, and I LIKED it. A lot.
So this 'relating to children' thing is a bit of a mystery to me. Turns out, it's a pretty helpful skill to have when you need to get 10 kids to sit down and listen to you for an hour.
The other thing is-surprise, surprise-we have a sick baby at our house so I was 'functioning' on very little sleep.
With those things in mind, here is how the day started.
I stumbled out of bed at about 8:15 (we have 9:00 Church) when Alyssa woke everyone up with her screaming. Something about running into the wall and hitting her head.
I vaguely remember getting Liam out of the crib and taking the girls downstairs to try and find something to eat. There was a lot of crying and a lot of yelling.
"Put our waffles on one big white plate so we can share!"
"DADADADADADA"
"You didn't put butter on them!"
"MAMAMAMAMA"
"MOM, Lyssa dropped a piece of her waffle on the FLOOR."
ETC.
Meanwhile, I was trying to get breakfast for myself, review my lesson again, and pull together every one's clothes.
Yes, this is the kind of organization you would see in our house most Sunday mornings. And yes, I am ashamed.
I made it to Church with the girls about 10 minutes late (Matt stayed home with Liam). I had planned on going over the lesson a time or two more during Sacrament Meeting, but I got interested in the talks and forgot. (That and a little boy sitting behind us threw up halfway through. Yikes.)
As soon as Sacrament Meeting was over, the panic set in. (Why do I get more nervous teaching 10 Five-year-olds than I do teaching a room of adult women?)
I went to Sharing Time. We were so busy trying to keep the kids' shoes on, ties on, backsides in chairs and eyes focused that it was over in a heartbeat.
Oh the fear! (And five-year-olds sense fear.)
My mind went blank.
I was sweating.
And then...
IT WAS OVER.
I only vaguely remember teaching the lesson. I told a couple stories, asked some questions, sang a song (poorly) and we colored. At least I think that's what happened. It's kind of a blur at this point. (I'm adding blurring memories to my list of blessings.)
I do remember that the Sister who teaches the class with me is amazing. She kept both me and the kids on track.
This whole Primary thing will definitely be one of my trials this year. (I'm sure one of many...) But for the first time, and kind of in spite of myself, I'm actually excited to be in this class. I'm not completely sure why (probably just because I'm masochistic like that) but I'm just going to go with it.
p.s. Pedophobia - Fear of children
p.p.s. I will post pictures as soon as I find the cable to my camera. Apparently, the card reader in my OLD computer will not read the new SD card I got for the camera.
p.p.p.s. Have I mentioned that I really (really) like parenthesis? (Like REALLY.)
Friday, January 9, 2009
Return with Honor
It is always so nice to see friends that have been away for a long time.
Especially when those friends have been in places like Afghanistan.
One of our dear friends got back from his year long assignment in Afghanistan on Saturday. Oh what a relief to see him home safe and sound!
The girls were ecstatic. He has been a treasured playmate of theirs for a long time. Kenna had been asking me just a couple of weeks ago why he never came over to visit anymore. What a great surprise!
We were able to have a good (albeit short) visit with him last night. It was so interesting to hear about all the things he has been doing. It was kind of strange though, hearing about things that up until that point, I had only read about in newspapers or heard on TV. As he shared some of his experiences, the whole abstract concept of a far away war that I had in my head was shattered by the reality of hearing about it first hand. It was very sobering.
Regardless of whether or not we agree with the reasoning behind the war, we should honor the people that are willing to serve their country, wherever they are called to go, and in whatever capacity they serve in.
Pray for these amazing people!
Especially when those friends have been in places like Afghanistan.
One of our dear friends got back from his year long assignment in Afghanistan on Saturday. Oh what a relief to see him home safe and sound!
The girls were ecstatic. He has been a treasured playmate of theirs for a long time. Kenna had been asking me just a couple of weeks ago why he never came over to visit anymore. What a great surprise!
We were able to have a good (albeit short) visit with him last night. It was so interesting to hear about all the things he has been doing. It was kind of strange though, hearing about things that up until that point, I had only read about in newspapers or heard on TV. As he shared some of his experiences, the whole abstract concept of a far away war that I had in my head was shattered by the reality of hearing about it first hand. It was very sobering.
Regardless of whether or not we agree with the reasoning behind the war, we should honor the people that are willing to serve their country, wherever they are called to go, and in whatever capacity they serve in.
Pray for these amazing people!
Thursday, November 20, 2008
In which I realize how fast two weeks passes...
Has it really been two weeks since I posted last? That sure went by fast. I have been absorbed with snuggling sick and/or cranky babies. Try as I might, I just couldn’t pull myself away from them. (Okay, I didn’t try that hard because seriously which is better: sitting at a computer or kissing their chubby little cheeks?)
But now they are feeling better and don’t need mom’s attention quite so much, I can give a run down on what we’ve been up to.
But now they are feeling better and don’t need mom’s attention quite so much, I can give a run down on what we’ve been up to.
- Voting: What a wonderful opportunity to participate in an historic election! I was lucky enough to get to the polls when there were absolutely no lines. (I tend to take my time voting so it was really nice not to have someone oozing impatience breathing down my neck this time.) I must say that overall I’m impressed with the general public and their interest in the races. I think more people actually took the time to educate themselves, not only on the presidential candidates, but the candidates for their local offices as well. Although my candidate didn’t win, I am always grateful that we have a chance to cast our vote. (And I am grateful that we can hear about something besides politics in the news now. Two years is an AWFUL long campaign season.)
- Anniversary: Matt and I celebrated our EIGHTH anniversary. (Although my dad keeps asking me if I’m sure it’s really eight years and not five. When I remind him that I have a five year old and I had her AFTER I had been married for a while, he just shakes his head like he thinks I’m crazy.) We went out of town for a night while my parents took the kids. I forgot what sweet BLISS it is to be able to sleep in as late as I want to, and what wonders a full night of rest can do for the dark circles under my eyes. We didn’t get to do the things we had planned because of the inclement weather, but it turned out better because of it. Matt surprised me with a trip to the jewelry store to pick out a new ring. We couldn’t find exactly what he had in mind, but found these that have some sentimental significance.
We had a nice lazy, relaxing time. It was honestly probably one of the best anniversaries we’ve had. I love him more everyday.
- November Family FHE: Every month my entire family gets together for a big family home evening. This month it was collecting the walnuts under a neighbors’ tree and cleaning them up. It was fun to get to see everyone, as always. We were able to put mom and dad’s new back porch to good use as a walnut cleaning station and cafeteria for the soup and hot chocolate. Dad and Liam took a little nap together on the couch. I wish I had had my camera there to snap a shot. They looked so cute together with their little bald noggins poking out of the blanket they were snuggled in. I love seeing the two of them together.
- Speaking of Cameras…a long time ago I coveted a camera that was just coming out on the market. I mean REALLY REALLY coveted. My sweet hubby suggested that I use it as a motivational tool to help me reach some goals I was in the process of setting. (I must apologize to him for my original hostility toward the idea. Sometimes that psychology degree of his gets really annoying when he’s right.) So guess what…I reached my initial goal and now I’m the proud owner of THIS baby. I took it out for a spin during my lunch hour at work one day and had a lot of fun trying out all the features. Here are a couple of the results:
I’m still trying to figure it all out, but I’m hoping the quality of our family photos will improve (as well as the quantity) once I learn how to use it.
- Mix it up Monday: We made our tent:
We turned off the lights and gave them flashlights to keep them entertained for a couple hours. Somehow every toy and activity seemed more intriguing to them if it was performed under the cover of a blanket tent. I think we’ll be doing this more often. I’ll also resume doing the mix-it-ups next week. We have a few projects in mind to try out.
- This week has found us shuttling McKenna to various birthday parties and trying to comfort Alyssa when she had the misfortune of having to stay home with mom. It has been good for McKenna to have some time with her friends. It's just hard for the little one left behind. While McKenna was gone last night she kept erupting in tears while saying, "I miss McKenna!" (Basically the same routine we go through every night except substitute 'Daddy' instead of 'McKenna'.) Funny how she doesn't seem to like her quite so much when she's home.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Halloween!
Wow! What a wonderful Halloween this year.
The weather MADE it. It's the only year I can remember that the kids didn't need a coat. It's so depressing to get the kids all dressed up and then have to cover them up with a big bulky winter coat. They loved, loved, LOVED being able to actually show off their costumes.
Matt also had the night off for the first Halloween since we've had kids old enough to go Trick-or-Treating. It made the whole evening a lot easier. I have always packed up and taken the kids to Grandma and Grandpa's neighborhood before. That way if one of the kids got tired halfway through or if we had a baby we could leave them with Grandma while the other one got to finish. This time, Dad got to take them out while I passed out candy with Liam.
It was our first experience trick or treating in the new neighborhood. I'm so glad that they still do the house to house thing here. Trunk-or-Treats make me sad. A big part of the fun on Halloween for me was getting to go to the different houses. The best part about it now is that the kids burn off some of the extra sugar by walking around. Definitely makes it easier to get them to sleep on Halloween night.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
More Catch Up Posting
I'm still catching up from the weekend. Ugh...I'm a slow poke.
Saturday (the 25th):
Since Saturday is really our only day to work on projects around the house, Matt needed to work on finishing up the garage (he's made lots of progress!!) and I was trying to get some other projects finished. So...Tanya stepped in and saved us once again.
She took the kids over to Grandma and Grandpa T.'s house for a picnic and they did this while they were there:
Obviously, they had a lot more fun than we did at home.
Tanya and I took them to the aquarium later that day. It was the first time we had been there. It's pretty small, but since the kids had never seen anything like it before, they were impressed.
Tanya took a lot of great pictures and even let me test out her camera.
It was a nice low-key activity after all the sugar infused craziness we had the night before.
Sunday (the 26th):
Primary Program!
The program was wonderful. It is always sweet to hear the little voices singing and sharing testimonies.
Let me just say here that I've been in Primary enough times to VERY MUCH APPRECIATE all the time, effort and just plain WORK that goes in to this. I am so grateful for the wonderful women in our ward that are willing to serve with the kids. In my mind this is the most difficult (and most important!) organization in the ward to serve in. They are amazing. And especially thanks to Heidi who wrangles my precocious Kenna every week. It's a tough job!
Kenna was scared to go up on the stand at first, and although I'm not certain how she fared while she was up there, she was happy when it was all over. We had to leave Church early to come back and help Matt out before he went to work (the big hole in his shoulder was hurting a fair amount). Lyssa cried all the way home about not getting to go to her class and play with the kids. Ah Nursery. Blessed be thy teachers.
We had a yummy dinner with Matt's family later in the afternoon. Tanya made a wonderful spread for everyone. I can't wait to try out her Beef Tips recipe myself!
Straight from there, we ran off to an Eagle Court of Honor for my nephew, Dallin. It was so neat to see him receive an award for such a great accomplishment! The bald eagle they brought in intrigued the girls, but when it started flapping its wings, I think they got a little nervous.
Tuesday (the 28th):
Kenna's official birthday. Oh my, where has the last five years gone!
After the girls got home from school, we went to the Planetarium. It is Kenna's favorite place and has the added bonus of being easy on the wallet since they don't charge to look around.
Grandma and Grandpa T. came over later, as well as Aunt Lori and Cousin Bryson. (Grandpa Y. wasn't feeling well so they weren't able to make it over.) It was nice and mellow after Friday's hullabaloo. We did the present thing, and had some cake and ice cream to share (oh my what a sugar fest this week is turning out to be!). We played fairies, checked out all the new toys and what they did and just let the kids get hyper and have fun.
Good times.
With that...I believe I am mostly caught up. Congrats to you if you actually made it through this. There are times when having this double as a journal is incompatible with making it interesting for anyone but me. (Okay, that's probably most of the time...sorry.)
Hope everyone has a Happy Halloween!
Saturday (the 25th):
Since Saturday is really our only day to work on projects around the house, Matt needed to work on finishing up the garage (he's made lots of progress!!) and I was trying to get some other projects finished. So...Tanya stepped in and saved us once again.
She took the kids over to Grandma and Grandpa T.'s house for a picnic and they did this while they were there:
Obviously, they had a lot more fun than we did at home.
Tanya and I took them to the aquarium later that day. It was the first time we had been there. It's pretty small, but since the kids had never seen anything like it before, they were impressed.
Tanya took a lot of great pictures and even let me test out her camera.
My shot...
Her shot with the (oh so handy) remote.
It was a nice low-key activity after all the sugar infused craziness we had the night before.
Sunday (the 26th):
Primary Program!
The program was wonderful. It is always sweet to hear the little voices singing and sharing testimonies.
Let me just say here that I've been in Primary enough times to VERY MUCH APPRECIATE all the time, effort and just plain WORK that goes in to this. I am so grateful for the wonderful women in our ward that are willing to serve with the kids. In my mind this is the most difficult (and most important!) organization in the ward to serve in. They are amazing. And especially thanks to Heidi who wrangles my precocious Kenna every week. It's a tough job!
Kenna was scared to go up on the stand at first, and although I'm not certain how she fared while she was up there, she was happy when it was all over. We had to leave Church early to come back and help Matt out before he went to work (the big hole in his shoulder was hurting a fair amount). Lyssa cried all the way home about not getting to go to her class and play with the kids. Ah Nursery. Blessed be thy teachers.
We had a yummy dinner with Matt's family later in the afternoon. Tanya made a wonderful spread for everyone. I can't wait to try out her Beef Tips recipe myself!
Straight from there, we ran off to an Eagle Court of Honor for my nephew, Dallin. It was so neat to see him receive an award for such a great accomplishment! The bald eagle they brought in intrigued the girls, but when it started flapping its wings, I think they got a little nervous.
Tuesday (the 28th):
Kenna's official birthday. Oh my, where has the last five years gone!
After the girls got home from school, we went to the Planetarium. It is Kenna's favorite place and has the added bonus of being easy on the wallet since they don't charge to look around.
Grandma and Grandpa T. came over later, as well as Aunt Lori and Cousin Bryson. (Grandpa Y. wasn't feeling well so they weren't able to make it over.) It was nice and mellow after Friday's hullabaloo. We did the present thing, and had some cake and ice cream to share (oh my what a sugar fest this week is turning out to be!). We played fairies, checked out all the new toys and what they did and just let the kids get hyper and have fun.
Good times.
With that...I believe I am mostly caught up. Congrats to you if you actually made it through this. There are times when having this double as a journal is incompatible with making it interesting for anyone but me. (Okay, that's probably most of the time...sorry.)
Hope everyone has a Happy Halloween!
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