Hailey turns ONE!

Let me introduce you to Hailey. Hailey is the daughter of Karma & Jared...sister of Madison. Jared is Shawn's cousin because their Mommies are sisters. We love to hang out with their family because our kids are so close in age, and we always have so much fun together. Caden and Madison are about 6 months apart. Sydney and Hailey are about 9 months apart. Today was Hailey's first birthday! I still can't believe that she is ONE already!

We headed over to their house in the evening for cake and ice cream. Caden couldn't wait to get over there. He absolutely loves Madison! It was a great evening. We sang Happy Birthday, and celebrated this adorable little girl! She wasn't too excited about the cake, but I sure thought it was yummy!

The kids had alot of fun playing together. It was so funny to watch Sydney following the older kids around, and copying everything they did. She really idolizes them, and tries her best to keep up with them.

Even though the kids are technically 2nd cousins, I feel like they will be as close as if they were 1st cousins. I hope that they will have fond memories of the fun that they have together. My heart melted when we went to leave and Madison & Caden gave each other the biggest hug. It was the sweetest thing ever! I hope that they will be able to continue their friendship as they get older. I have so many memories of the fun that I had with my cousins. Do you have any that you would like to share?

Where do they learn this stuff!?

The other day we were at the grocery store. I was pushing Caden forward in the cart at the checkout...he was sitting in the back, and stood up. What happened next floored me, made me giggle, and cry all at the same time.

Caden: Hello!
Clerk: Well, Hello!
Caden: My name is Caden James ****....Nice to meet you! (He then proceeds to put out his hand to shake hers!)

Seriously! Where do they learn this stuff. It was just so dang cute! It also made me realize how fast this little boy is growing up! SIGH!

Lions, and Tigers, and Bears...oh my!

Yesterday, I was selected to participate in a study, and went to go pick up the product that I would be using. Delve is located down the street from the Phoenix Zoo so I thought that we would go there while we were there. It was so much fun...I just wish that I would have brought my camera!!! The last couple of times that we have done things, I have forgotten it and have missed out on some great pictures!

I actually ended up getting a membership. I had gotten one a few years ago, but when the renewal came up I just let it expire. Now that Sydney is a little older she can really appreciate the fun that comes with visiting the zoo. It was a little hot, but not too bad. The zoo even has a little water area that the kids can play in. Caden didn't want play in the water this time, but hopefully he will in the future.

We spent a good part of the day there, and got lots of exercise walking all over the zoo. I really am looking forward to going there more often. I know it sounds crazy here in AZ where it gets so hot, but as long as we keep hydrated we can have alot of fun. It was so fun to see how excited they both were when they found the animal in each exhibit. It was like playing "I Spy".
We didn't get to see every animal, but we did see a fair share of them. It will be something to look forward to.

We also bought a Family Season Swim pass for the local pool. My kids have always been a little leery of the water, but with alot more exposure I hope they will like it a little more. We have signed up for swim lessons so they will be spending alot of time in the water! Maybe this year I will actually get a tan! I know it is not the best for you, but I look so much better with a tint. :)

I am trying to get some sort of routine down for me and the kids. I have decided that we really need to go do 'something' each day. You see, I am pretty boring. Besides getting out of the house to go the gym...we pretty much stay home. I have come to the conclusion that the reason why my house always seems like a train wreck is because we are home ALL THE TIME. I want to set something up so the kids always know that " Hey its Monday! We are going to _____ today. I figured we could go to the library, swimming, zoo. I am trying to think of other things, but would like to have one specific place where we will go each day. I figure that if we spend some time each day out of the house...it will make it a little bit more manageable.

What are some fun things that you do with your kids?

Memorial Day

We had alot of fun today. Holidays are always nice because we get to have Shawn around for the whole day, plus we always try to plan something for all of us to do together. My sister is out of town on that Disney Cruise that we were supposed to be on. (No, I am not bitter!) She has a great pool, and said that we could play at her casa while she was a way, so that is exactly what we planned on doing.

We invited Justin & Karyn and their kids Kent, Mallory, & Eldon along. We had a BBQ and swam to our hearts content. The kids had alot of fun, and it was a nice relaxing day. Afterwards we headed home, and put the kids to bed. They were tuckered out from being in the sun!

My mind was very contemplative today from various things and somewhat subtle things I observed. On the way to my sisters we hit a red light, and out of the corner of my eye I saw a man and two little children making their way across the street to the corner of this busy intersection. In his hand he had a bouquet of flowers, and they stopped at this little white cross that was already surrounded with flowers new and old. For a moment, I was lost in the thought of the circumstances that brought this little family there. Who was this for, and what happened to this person. Whenever I see crosses on the roadside, my heart aches for the family. I wonder how hard it must have been when they were contacted. Or if they were there the day of the accident, and survived. I imagine how hard it is for them to drive by, and see the constant reminder. So on this day, while waiting at this stoplight, I stared at this family surrounding this little white cross, and mourned the loss, and pain that I can only imagine that they were/are feeling.

Later that night, after the kids were in bed. Shawn and I sat down to watch Broken Bridges. I hadn't really heard much about the show, but we like country...and this was made by CMT. I figured if anything it would have good music (Which it does! The song Broken sung by Lindsay Haun is remarkable!). The show was pretty good...not the best, but it was the best way to end Memorial Day. It was based on a small little town that lost 5 soldiers to a training accident. The main character, Kelly Preston, had been estranged from her family for years, and finally came home for the funeral...and in the process, found herself again. Here is the music video of Broken...definately worth the watch!

There was a part in the movie where the mother was going through her son's things. I was again lost in thought about the pain that so many have to bear. I am so thankful for the brave people that have the courage to defend our country. I honestly don't think that I would be able to do it! I am a coward! I admire all those mothers, wives, and families that are part of the military. They too are braver than I could imagine. We truly are blessed by these soldiers. Our lives are what they are because of their sacrifice to defend our country. I will be forever thankful.

Walking Challenge - Week One

So I have done pretty good so far in the Walking Challenge that I decided to do over at An Iowa Mom's. I try to go to the gym about 5 days a week, and it has been nice to have an extra motivation to make it there. This first week I haven't really seen much change, but we will see as the weeks go by. I will be brave here and actually post my stats. I know some people are self conscious of actually posting their measurements, but I figure "it is what it is!" I don't really care if people think that I am fat or am appalled by my numbers. Oh Well! In the end, I have a wonderful man who loves me no matter what. So drumroll please.....

Weight: 165
Waist: 30
Hips: 40
Thighs: 24

Bust:34

Hopefully we can get some of these numbers down soon! If you want to join in with us, head on over to this post at An Iowa Mom's, and link up. Then all of us can cheer each other on!

100 Things About Me!

I can't believe that I am arriving at my 100th post! I have to say that I have thoroughly enjoyed blogging thus far, and think that it will stick with me. So in honor of it being my 100th post I thought I would let you in on 100 things about me! Here it goes!

1. I am a native Arizonan that was born on July 3


2. I was the third girl and 6th child in my family...there were two more boys after me.


3. My parents moved shortly after I was born into the home that I grew up in for my entire childhood. They still live there today!


4. I was a thumbsucker!


5. When I was young, my sister got me to call her Mom and my Mom - Grandma! (My mom didn't like that too much)


6. I got the nickname "Crissybug" from a neighbor who thought I was "cute as a bug."


7. My favorite color is yellow


8. My favorite flower is a Daisy


9. I have played the violin since I was 9 years old (although I don't get to play it very much these days)


10. I also play the piano, and I sing


11. I love to dance...particularly 40's swing (another thing I don't get to do as often as I would like)


12. A curling iron fell on my foot when I was 3


13. I have a heart shaped scar on my left foot from that burn


14. When I was little, I always wanted a kitten


15. Now I don't want any pets


16. My parents owned a local video rental store called "The Video Box" - it was before the Blockbuster franchise days.


17. I worked the registers when I was only 8 years old!


18. The customers always questioned whether or not I could help them.


19. When I was in 6th grade I won a poetry recessataion contest.


20. I was a sophmore in H.S. when I gained my own testimony of Jesus Christ.


21. That was also the year I got my first kiss.


22. I got my first 'real' job when I was a junior in H.S at Organ Stop Pizza.


23. My senior year I met, Brodie, the guy I thought I was going to marry, when he got a job at Organ Stop Pizza.


24. We dated for almost 2 years before he left on his mission


25. I still dated other guys while Brodie was on his mission.


26. I first met Joel


27. Then I met Brad


28. Next came Tim


29. From these 3 guys I learned that someone other than Brodie could make me happy


30. I also learned that I was trying to do all I could to have a guy like me. I would change my likes and dislikes to fit theirs...not something I would recommend


31. I finally decided that I would no longer compromise myself in order to receive what I thought was love


32. That is when I ended up meeting Shawn at a country dance (yes this is embarrassing, but true).


33. He told me that he loved me when we had only known each other for 2 weeks


34. I told him 'Thank You'


35. I was in denial for weeks


36. The spirit finally told me that I had to give him a chance


37. I was scared out of my mind because I didn't want to get hurt again


38. Shawn continued to say "I Love You" even thought I couldn't reciprocate


39. I realized that he was the first person who I could truly be "me" with


40. He wrote a song, and sang it to me at a Talent Show when he proposed


41. We got married 3 months later, a few months before 'my missionary' got home


42. We went to Spain our honeymoon


43. It was my first time out of the country


44. I got braces for the first time when I was 20 (the perks of marrying into a family of orthodontics)


45. My teeth got fixed, but within the year of me getting them off...my tongue thrust has brought back my open bite


46. Only my back 4 teeth touch


47. People wonder how I can chew food


48. In fact, Julie & Robbie used to take me to Burger King to watch me try to eat a hamburger for entertainment


49. We celebrated our 5 month anniversary when I was in FA Training


50. Because I was in training I missed my best friends (Julie & Robbie's) wedding


51. I cried for days because I could not be there


52. Flight Attendant training and the 1st year on the job was probably one of the hardest things I have ever done.


53. I have been a flight attendant for almost 7 years!! (Half of that time I have been pregnant and/or on maternity leave)


54. I have only moved 3 times in my entire life (I don't count the first time my parents moved--I was too young to remember)


55. I have lived in Arizona my entire life!


56. Thanks to my job I have traveled all over the United States


57. I love anything with chocolate or/and peanut butter


58. I love a good party. I am a very social person, and love meeting new people.


59. Whenever I played 'house' I would choose the name Sandy...from Grease. I idolized her. Little did I understand what that movie was really about!


60. I have only worked for 4 different companies in my life (besides my parent's business).


61. I worked at OSP, sold cell phones, worked at a bookstore, and now am a Flight attendant


62. I don't like change


63. I am loyal


64. I went skydiving the fall after my senior year. It ROCKED!


65. I bought my first car after I graduated. It was the Ford Escort in this post.


66. After a year and a half of trying...I finally got pregnant with my first child.


67. We moved into a 5 bedroom house when I was 3 months prego (we never want to move again)


68. I gained far too much weight & way too many stretch marks, all for my beautiful 9lbs 7oz baby boy, Caden James.


69. I love being a mother


70. Sydney Ranelle came 2 years and 2 weeks later, and was a far better pregnancy!


71. My hair gets curlier with each pregnancy


72. I have never dyed or highlighted my hair before


73. I do not like seafood


74. My favorite television shows are LOST, Smallville, Grey's Anatomy, The Office, Ugly Betty, Scrubs, Heroes, Ghost Whisperer, Medium, and Brothers & Sisters


75. Yes, I watch too much TV


76. I like all types of music except for heavy metal


77. I love watching movies


78. One of my favorite movies is Brokedown Palace


79. Shawn hates it because he thinks it is too depressing. I cry every time I watch it and wonder if I would have the strength to make such a sacrifice for another.


80. My favorite restaurant is The Olive Garden


81. I love Old Navy, Target & Costco


82. I was born and raised LDS and would not be the same without the gospel in my life


83. I enjoy sewing - I made my own prom dress, lots of baby blankets, curtains for my house, and a twin sized 'Fireman' quilt for Caden ( I have a ladybug one I need to finish for Syd)


84. I love pickles or anything with vinegar! In fact our family has a special recipe for Vinegar Green Beans that I love! When I was little that was the only way I would eat green beans!


85. I went to DISNEYWORLD for the first time in September 2006 ( I have been to Disneyland many times)


86. It was one of the best vacations we have ever been on


87. I absolutely love Jennifer Garner (I was so bummed when Alias ended!)


88. I think nothing is better than curling up to read a good book.


89. One of my favorites is "The Last Valentine" by James Michael Pratt...it has an amazing way of showing what love is.


90. Even thought I live in HOT Arizona, I rarely wear shorts because I hate my legs


91. I love Yoga! I did it through out my whole pregnancy with Sydney and it was the best thing I ever did!


92. I am a people pleaser - I have a hard time telling people 'no'


93. When I was young I burned my finger on a homemade gigantic lifesaver because I touched it seconds after we took it out of the microwave...Yes, I was that stupid!


94. I love listening to my husband sing - He really has the most beautiful voice!


95. I have a hard time asking for help


96. Partly because I like things done a certain way, and partly because I don't want to burden anyone else.


97. I had to get glasses in the 5th grade and hated them


98. I got LASIK done in January 2007, and it was the best think I ever did!


99. If Hawaii wasn't so far from my family - I would live there.


100. I am officially addicted to blogging!

High School Grad

Let me tell you a little about my brother. Michael is the 8th child to be born into my family. He really is a miracle. My mother had already had 7 children, and the youngest at the time was 6 years old. I think in my mom's mind...she was done having kids. She was 46 years old when she found out that she was pregnant with Michael, and turned 47 a few months before he was born!

I still remember when my parents told us that we would be getting another sibling. I think that we were all in disbelief. 18 years ago there were not many women that had children over the age of 40. Her doctor was a little concerned for my mom, and even recommended having an abortion because of the risk. My parents never considered it (for religious, and personal reasons.) and we are so glad that they didn't.

Having Michael in our family dynamic has been wonderful. He really is such a joy to be around. As I have watched him grow up, he really has become such a great person. It was so nice to be able to go to his graduation this evening and celebrate his accomplishment. He is such a hardworker, and has excelled so much in school. I really am going to miss him when he goes away for school.

Here are some pictures of the fun event!

Wordless Wednesday - Trash?

For more participants check out the Wordless Wednesday HQ or 5 Minutes for Mom!
(This 'can' is used for RECYCLE...so don't get too grossed out!)

Training Days

Today one of my friends graduated from Flight Attendant Training! She asked if I would come to her graduation and present her with her wings. I thought it was really nice that she thought to ask me. Graduation is in another state so in order to go I would need practically the whole day. At first I debated because I didn't know if I wanted to spend the whole day flying there and back. Then I decided it would be kinda nice to have the day to myself. I would be able to get some reading done on the plane, and have uniterrupted 'me' time. I arranged to have my brother watch the kids, and I was off.

The flight over was nice. I got in a little nap, and was able to do some reading too. I haven't 'sat' to read a book in a while. I usually do my reading while I am working out on a machine at the gym. There were others on the flight that were going to graduation too. We all chatted a bit, and that passed some time. Before I knew it we were at our destination. We all got on a shuttle that took us to company HDQ.

It was great to see Kristin. I think that she was really happy, and I can only imagine how thankful she was to have this all over with. There were a few company officials that gave some motivationl speeches, and then I was able to give Kristin her wings. There were 4 other people that were from my training class there, too! I hadn't seen them since our graduation almost 7 years ago! Then on my flight home, the flight attendant working the flight was also from my class! I had a great time catching up with Elisa. It is amazing how much time has flown.

As I look back on my days in training...I can only say that I am glad that part is over! I went through training when I had only been married for 4 months. We celebrated our 5 month anniversary while I was there. It was one of the hardest things I have ever done in my entire life. Up until training, Shawn and I had never gone a day without seeing each other, and then I had to be gone for 5 weeks!

The training itself wasn't too bad. I am a pretty good student. I tend to remember things easily, and so I didn't have a very hard time learning the things that I needed to. I met so many wonderful people while there, but I was so glad when it was all over. I really had to sacrifice alot when I decided that I wanted to become a flight attendant. Being away from Shawn was very hard. He struggled with it alot, and so did I. I missed my two best friends getting married to each other! Then when training was over, I learned that I would be based in another state! I shed many tears while I was there. I questioned whether or not I made the right decision. Was it worth everything that I missed out on. I kept pushing through because in my heart I knew that once I got past all this hard stuff I would be thankful for the decision.

I really enjoy my job. I love the variety that it brings. I love meeting new people, and going to new places. And you just can't beat the flexibility. The flexibility is what made me want to become a flight attendant in the first place. I knew that once I had children, I didn't really want to work much. I want to be home with my kids, and as crazy as it sounds...this was the job to have. I bid a full schedule every single month. I then trade, and give away my trips in order to stay home. When my children get older I will still have a great job that I can work as much or little as I like.

So far, I have been very fortunate. I have been blessed to spend the majority of my days with my kids. I work turns (trips that go out and come back within the same day), and have only been on one overnight since Caden was born (that is 3 1/2 years!) Since I am no longer nursing, I am actually thinking about going on a two day here and there just to get a break from the kids. I think it would be a little refreshing to have a night all to myself. I feel so lucky to be able to have such a great job.

I hope to be able to keep my job indefinately. As crazy as it sounds, I think it is one of the best jobs that a mom could have. Where else can you continue to get raises, attain seniority, but don't have to work very much. It is a great thing to fall back on if anything were to happen to Shawn's job. All I have to do is hop on the computer and pick up a trip. It really is a blessing, and I am glad to say that I am so thankful that I am a flight attendant.

Apparently there are some things that I need!

This has been floating around for the last few days, and the curiosity got the best of me! I just had to see what my results were. All you have to do is go to Google and type in "[your name] needs". Then you pick out your favorites and post it on your blog. It can be very entertaining and funny. I even went as far to do my wants too!

Crystal needs a LOT of love - don't we all!

Crystal needs Your Donations - I could always use some more cash :)

Crystal needs improvement - I think I always will!

Crystal needs to spend a great deal of time in solitude - it is nice to have some time to myself, but I do like a good party with lots-o-people!

Crystal needs to sit in a super-saturated solution to continue growing - hmm..no thank you...I have grown enough.

Crystal needs a family that can provide a stable, nurturing environment - I hope I can provide that for my children

Crystal needs to be in the salt water - I have never been a fan of the ocean. I love to look at it, but not to swim in it.

Crystal needs to be examined - Do I really appear that crazy!?

Crystal needs to know how loving couples interact - Is this a hint that I need to be nicer to my spouse?

Crystal needs your help - Yes, I do need help!

Crystal needs cleaning when it appears dusty or dull - I hope that I don't ever appear dusty or dull!

Crystal needs some protection - I have my man to protect me

Crystal needs to be perfect to sustain stress - I guess that I will never be able to sustain stress

Crystal needs to upgrade its sewage-treatment facilities -ummmm

Crystal needs to be seeking forgiveness and hopefully serious professional help - I guess that I am a bad girl!

Crystal needs to be investigated - what did I do wrong!?

Crystal needs to be positive and pure to serve its purpose - I am trying to be!

Here are my WANTS

Crystal wants to build permanent home with loving family - I hope to be able to do this, but some days are harder than others

Crystal wants to meet 12 people - I want to meet more than 12 people! I love making new friends!

Crystal wants to know about engineering marvels in Tampa Bay - okay

Crystal wants to see an R-rated show - there have been many R-rated shows that I have wanted to watch. My religion recommends not to watch them. I have to admit that I have seen some, and most of the time I should have listened to the advice that I was given!

Crystal wants to be quietly meditating and reflecting on life - I don't think that I do this enough

Crystal wants her children to understand where they come from - this is probably one of the most important things for me. I want my children to be loved, and grow up knowing that they are loved by a Heavenly Father.

So now that you have read mine...go check out yours! Let me know if you play along, I would love to read about what you 'need'!

Dinner...err...Lunch Theatre and Dentistry

On Saturday we had the treat of going to the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre. If you haven’t attended a play yet at the Broadway Palm they’re full-scale professional productions with complete sets, lighting and scenery. Along with their 'Broadway' productions in the evening, they have Children's play matinees. If you get a group of 20 or more you can get a discount. Awhile ago my sister, Nancy, started reserving practically the whole front section of the theatre, and then everyone would reserve seats through her with the discount price. We have loved going there, and have watched many good plays. The buffet lunch is okay, but you can't beat the entertainment. It has been a great way to introduce theatre to Caden, and he really looks forward to going each time. If you live here and would like to go to the next performance, Chronicles of Narnia...let me know, and I can hook you up with my sister!

The play this time was "Winnie the Pooh's Birthday Tail." It was Eeorye's birthday, and he had lost his tail. Everyone in the forest pulled together to find it. I loved sitting back and watching Caden as he sat there in awe of the performers. Sydney sat the whole time in Nancy's lap! It really has been a fun thing for our family to go to together.

Afterwards we stood in line to snap some pictures with the performers. As you can see in most of the pictures...Caden is being his usual cooperative self. Shannon, her son Jude, and neice Calli got in some pictures with us too. It was good to see Shannon again.

After we took in pictures, my neice, Maya, was begging me to pull her tooth. You see, I have become the official tooth puller in Nancy's family. I don't know why, but I am. Gaylyn, Nancy's MIL, says that I should have become a dentist! HA! I guess I just have the magic touch because whenever a tooth starts to get loose...they are calling me up! So we went into the bathroom and pulled it out. Here are some pictures of the "big" event! :) At first I didn't think that it was going to come out...there was one part of the tooth that was being very stubborn! I told Maya that I didn't think it was going to come out today, and she started to cry. I felt so bad for her because she wanted it out sooo bad. So we kept trying, and finally it gave it...and we had one happy little girl!

A Dream Revived

Tonight I went to Michael's last orchestra concert before he graduates High School. I still can't believe that my baby brother is old enough to graduate. I have tried to get to his concerts over the years, but sometimes didn't know about them until the last moment. I made sure that I was able to go to this one, and I am glad that I did. Michael has worked really hard over the years, and has become a great musician. He is planning on going to college to get a degree in Music Compostion, with a minor in Entrepreneurship. His end goal is to own his own company designing video games, and writing the music to the video games. Michael really has grown into a great person. I am proud to say he is my brother.

As I sat there listening to the performances, I started getting caught up in my own thoughts and memories. They happened to play "Intermezzo" - a song that I had played my Junior year in Regionals. The song is absolutely beautiful. It made me want to run up there grab someones violin, and play along. Whenever I think back to my orchestra days I have so much joy. Being part of an orchestra is such a great experience. I can not begin to describe how it really makes me feel. I love to sit down along with hundreds of other musicians, and create something that is so beautiful.

When I was younger, my dream was to be able to play in an orchestra for a movie. I wanted to be able to go to said movie, and be able to say "that's me --do you hear it!" I obviously never got that far. My violin doesn't get played nearly as often as I would like. When I was sitting there at the concert, the desire came back again. It always does whenever I go. I just love playing in orchestras.

As I drove home I thought about how fulfilling it is for me, and how I don't want that part of my life to completely disappear. I don't know if I can do it right away, but eventually I want to play in an orchestra again. A few years ago I was in the community orchestra, and I might just have to do that again.

Do you have a hobby that you love that can't seem to find the time to do? What is it and do you think you will ever find time to put it back into your life?

Walking Challenge

The other day I was doing a little reading over at An Iowa Mom. She had come across a post by Julee that talked about an article in Women's Day Magazine. This said article claims that if you walk 6 days a week for 30 minutes per day...in a month you would go down a dress size!

Now, I am not fat by any means, but I could and want to lose some weight. I have lost all the weight that I gained from Sydney, but I can't seem to lose anymore. I am interested to see if this article has any truth to it...so I am up for the challenge.

Do you want to join in? Go check out the details at An Iowa Mom!

Expectations

Since I had myself a little pity party the other day, I now need to clarify some things. My husband came home yesterday, and read this post. He wasn't too happy that I posted this for the world to see, and I think it hurt him. He felt like I was out there to bash him, and that was totally not the purpose. I was just disappointed, and needed to vent.

My husband is a wonderful person. He works very hard to provide for me and our family. He loves us very much. He does the best that he can to show love for me. I know that he loves me and appreciates me. I love him, and care for him deeply. What it all comes down to is expectations. My friend over at Miss Niss, said it perfectly "when we expect things of other people, we, the "expecters" are the ones who usually get hurt by it...." That is exactly what happened on Sunday. I had in my mind how I would have done things, and when it didn't happen that way I was hurt. To my husbands defense...he said that he did wish me 'Happy Mother's Day.' Maybe I was so caught up in what didn't happen that I didn't hear him say it. He did take Caden to church with him a whole hour early, and did the best that he could to show his appreciation that day. I know that he can't read my mind, and he does and shows his love differently than I do. That is something that I have to remind myself.

Honey, I am sorry...I didn't mean to "bash" you. I love you, and am grateful to have you in my life.

Wordless Wednesday - Personal Space Intruder

For more participants checkout the Wordless Wednesday HQ or 5 Minutes for Mom!

Tackle It Tuesday - Under TV Storage

When we bought our house it already had a built in Entertainment system. The whole bottom of it is cupboards, and since you can't see what is there unless they are open...it is a breeding ground for junk! So I decided to work on it for my tackle today. It is amazing the things that I hang on to. We had a ton of VHS tapes under there that we NEVER watch. In fact we don't even have a working VHS player. So those are off to donation along with some games that we never play, and other useless stuff. I am pretty proud of the results. What do you think?

BEFORE

AFTER

To visit other tackles...Head over to 5 Minutes For Mom!

Mother's Day

From what I have read in the blogosphere, it sound's like everyone had a wonderful Mother's Day. I have to say that I am jealous of this...I might just have to convince our Relief Society that this is the way things should be done!

My Mother's day started out early. The kids woke up, and came in bed with us. We went downstairs and ate some cereal. Then pretty much took it easy. Close to 9 we put Sydney down for a nap (she had been up since 5:30 am) and I tried to get a little more sleep. I think I was able to get about a half hour before Shawn left to go to the church. He took Caden with him at 10 am.

I got up, got ready...then got the kids stuff together. Finally I woke up Sydney, and got her dressed and headed off to church. When I arrived, Caden was crying. He was in the worst mood...which made Sacrament meeting wonderful. I think I spent the first part out in the foyer with a screaming child. I finally got him to settle down, and we went back inside the chapel. The primary kids were supposed to sing to all the mothers. Caden made it as far as the stairs and then just sat there. When they started singing he ran back to me crying. Oh the Joys.

Atleast I got to drop them off at nursery and primary for the last two hours of church, and have a little break. Relief Society was good. The lesson was on forgiveness...something I need to be better at. I was excited when church got out because I figured that the kids teachers would have had the kids make me something. I did get a card that Sydney had scribbled on, but that was it.

I was a little disappointed that they didn't have Caden do anything, but I guess that really isn't their job. Shawn had to do tithing so we came home and I put Sydney down for a nap. In the meantime, I had to cut up fruit for the fruit salad that I had to bring to the family dinner that my family was having at my brothers house.

I had made some cards for my mom, Shawn's mom, and Shawn's grandma. We made a trip over to Grandma's, and Shawn's mom was there too. So we were able to give them both the cards, and visit for a while. While we were there alot of the extended family showed up, it was nice to see everyone. Pretty soon we had to leave to head over to my brothers. We were already an hour late, but it was nice to see everyone.

Sunday was also my nephew, Ethan's, first birthday. I still can't believe that he is one. So our get together was for Mother's day, and also to celebrate for Ethan. It was good to see my family. I always love getting together with them. I could hang out with them for hours.

My mom was nice enough to give me a card. I thought it was very thoughtful of her. I love my mom. She is a wonderful person. There are times that I get frustrated with her, and sometimes say hurtful things. I know I am going to regret it someday. I will probably have a child that will do the same to me. I just hope that she knows that I really do love her despite our differences.

That was pretty much my day. Nothing really special. My husband didn't even tell me "Happy Mother's Day." I don' t think that he did it on purpose, he just has had alot on his mind lately. I haven't been able to post anything about it because people from his work sometimes read my blog, but he left his current position for a new company (he actually started the new job today). I will have to post more on this later. I think it is a good thing, but Shawn really did love his old job.

Anyway, maybe next year will be more memorable.

Fathers and Sons

The boys went out with the ward for the Fathers and Sons campout this past weekend. I think they had alot of fun. Shawn brought along our nephew Jackson, too. They had potato launchers, Marshmallow guns, and even got to go canoeing/kayaking. I think this is such a fun thing for them. From what Shawn said, Caden did a whole lot better than last year. Here are some pictures of the fun that they had together.


That last picture cracks me up. Caden is all slumped back, and grouchy. He can be so silly at times!

Joy School Graduation

It was more of a swim party, but we gave out little diploma's. (Caden refused to get in this picture.) In some ways I am glad it is over for the summer, but it is sad to be done. Caden really has had alot of fun. Joy School is not the traditional type of preschool that focuses on academics. It is a program that helps kids find "joy" in all sorts of aspects of life. You can see the different "subjects" that we "studied" this year on his "report card".

Over the course of this year it has been alot of fun. I am in a co-op with 4 other moms so I only taught once every 5 weeks. It was nice to be part of it, and will be doing it again next year. I really feel like it has been a good thing for Caden. He has looked forward to it every week, and just loves the songs that go along with the curriculm. Here are some clips of him singing some of the songs. It is the cutest thing to watch him do it, but as you can tell...as soon as he realizes that I am taping him...all is over. Someday I may get him to do it for me.

As this year has gone by it has been amazing to watch Caden grow, and change in his learning. About a month ago we made an "All About Me" book. They had to draw a self portrait. Caden whined a little bit when we were starting out. He really wanted me to do it for him. I told him to go look in the mirror, and then come back and draw what he saw. This is the result. I was so impressed that he did this all by himself. I think I am going to have to have it framed.

Here is a slide show of a few pictures that I had taken throughout the year. You may notice that Caden is in very few of them. For whatever reason he never wanted to get in the shot. Oh well!

It really has been a memorable school year. I think that Caden will be able to look back and see all the Joy that he found.

Randomness

I was recently tagged by Julie of Love, Laughter, and Laundry for a meme that has been going around the blogosphere.

Here’s how it works: Each player starts with 7 random facts/habits about themselves. People who are tagged need to write on their own blog about their seven things, as well as these rules. You need to tag 7 others and list their names. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them that they have been tagged and to read your blog!

So here is mine:

1. I have never been skiing in my entire life. Since I came from such a big family my parents didn't really have money for that type of thing. Then as I have gotten older the thought actually scares me! I have a fear that I will end up breaking my leg or running into a tree or something. I think that eventually I will gather the nerve, but it hasn't happened yet!
2. I am a wiggler. My husband makes fun of me, but I have to "nestle" into bed. I will "wiggle" around until I have the "perfect" spot!
3. When I was in High School I grew a liking to Tweety. For the next few years every gift I got was Tweety, Tweety, and more Tweety. I have since grown out of that phase, but can't seem to let go of the shrine of gifts that I have displayed in a bookcase. I now am liking Tinkerbell, but...please...I don't need another shrine. :)
4. I love Fisher Price Little People! I really do...I think I like them more than my kids. I think they are the best toy that a kid can have. I love the different sets, and the hours of fun they can provide. They even have a Thanksgiving set! I want to get the Nativity set this Christmas...for my kids of course. *wink, wink*
5. When I was little I would eat my burritos, tacos, and anything else Mexican with ketchup instead of salsa. I don't know how or why this started, but I absolutely loved it. I haven't tried it like that in a long time.
6. I have never tasted a drop of alcohol. Zip, Zilch, Nada! Part of it is because of my religion, but also because I just have never had the desire. Sometimes it is funner to watch others make a fool of themselves when they have had too much to drink.
7. I can't stand zits. Yes, I know it is a nasty habit, and bad for the skin...but if I have one, I have to pop it. Gross..I know. Sorry.

So now you know some random facts about me. Here are the people that I am tagging:

Kim of Ben and Kim's Family, Lani of The Wooden Porch, Amber of Crazy Bloggin' Canuck, Anissa of Miss Niss, Babystepper of Babysteps (I have been reading her blog for months now, and just realized I don't know her real name!), Rosie of My Little Corner of Chaos, and Amber of The Whiting Family. If I didn't tag you and you would like to play along...just let me know if you participate, and I would love to read about it on your blog!

Wordless Wednesday - Exhausted!

For more participants check out the Wordless Wednesday HQ or 5 Minutes for Mom!

A Day at the Drive In

That was the theme for Caden's Primary Activity Day on Saturday. It was the sweetest thing to come back after dropping him off and seeing this. The kids all had a blast "making" their cars, and then they watched a movie about David and Goliath. I am so thankful for the Primary presidency in my church. They have done so well with their callings. I just thought this was the neatest idea, and a great way to involve the children, yet still teach a great lesson on Faith.

It took me a while to get Caden out the door, but I am glad that I did. He had so much fun. He was so proud of his car, and couldn't wait to show it to me. I can't believe how much he is growing up. I love this boy!

Dangerous Book for Boys!

And if I haven't already posted enough for today...I just had to add this. I got Dangerous Book for Boys by Conn and Hal Iggulden from Harper Collins to review, and I have to tell ya...it is soo cool! My little boy is not old enough for it yet, but I can't wait for him to be able to explore it. I think in the days that video games, and TV and monopolize our children, this book gives something to help awaken their inner child. It takes them away and helps them to actually use their imagination & brains. I came across this "commercial" on You Tube and just had to laugh. It gives you a little insight on what this book can do for your boy! I would definitely recommend it for anyone!

Mother's Day Giveaway!

Those girls over at 5 Minutes for Mom are doing it again! They are giving out lots and lots of cool prizes for Mother's Day! The first one they are giving away is an Ipod! Go over there for all the details, and enter to win! Good luck!

Wordless Wednesday - Sick babies!

For more participants check out Wordless Wednesday HQ or 5 Minutes for Mom!

This is a result of yesterday's happenings!

What a "Fun" Day!

Yesterday turned out to be pretty interesting. I got a call in the morning from Susie. Susie and I were in the same flight attendant class back in the day. This is a picture of us back when were were in class ( 7 years ago!) Shannon, another F/A friend, was having an impromtu lunch, and wanted to know if we could go. I hadn't seen them in quite some time so I was excited to see them. I headed over to Susie's house around noon, and then we were going to follow eachother over to lunch.

Everything seemed to be going great. The kids were doing good, and we were on our way. We had barely left Susie's house when it happened. I heard Sydney making choking noises. I looked back and she was throwing up all over herself. (Sorry if the picture grosses you out) I figured that she had swallowed her water too fast and something made her gag. We turned around and went back to Susie's. We hosed down the carseat, gave Syd a bath, and then we were back on the road. When were were almost there Syd threw up again (but not really much - probably because she didn't have anything to throw up). Then when we were in the restaurant she threw up again - in the bathroom this time! For whatever reason I thought it was a fluke. She didn't seem to act sick, had no fever, but just kept gagging.

On the way home, Sydney fell asleep...and Caden almost did. I was going to stop to pick up something to eat because we didn't get anything at the Sushi place (I don't do fish.) I asked Caden if he wanted to get something. He said "No, Mom...I want to go home and go to sleep. I am tired!" I thought that was strange, but decided to head home. I was just around the corner from our house when Caden proceeded to throw up all over himself.

The rest of the day consisted of Sydney throwing up one other time, and Caden multiple times over the course of many hours. Thankfully he now knows to go for the bowl. Caden actually put himself to bed and they were both in bed since about 5 pm last night. They both woke up occasionaly, but never fully got out of bed. :( My poor kids!

They woke up this morning around 6, and have been laying around. I am afraid to give them anything to eat for fear that they will throw it all up! I hope they get better soon-and pray that I don't get sick too!

My Babies

Are sick! I have had to clean up throw up more than I wish to account for. I will write more of the story later. I just hope this doesn't last long!