Balloon Glow- the best festival around

The annual event of the Louisville Balloon Glow started this weekend. Touted to be in the top 5 in the nation for hot air balloon festivals, a gathering of 85 balloons at dusk "light" their inflated balloons. The glow and warmth from the balloons is awesome. You can get as close as you want and I love watching the teams work together to get them up. Every balloon rise from the ground got an applause from Emma and it really is so fascinating. It's almost as magical as Disneyland. ALMOST. I'm a dork like that.

(Forgive my camera. It's lived its' life. I'm still trying to replace it. Pictures are spotty.)

(That's NOT Ryan between the kids.)

(THIS is Ryan squinting. He's blaming the camera.)

( And this is blurry. But, shows the magic.)

I need a new camera~ before next years glow.

I'm a serious cook now.

Thanks to this super cute apron from Heather D., these turned out well. I feel so gourmet when I wear it! Just a shout out to this girl that sews and paper crafts and shares all of her talents so well. I am graced with her goodness often. Her blog will be a fun one to read. She's just getting started, and I bet Martha Stewart would claim her "A good thing".

He Placed in Weird Science

Ryan's research project this past month:

"Healthcare Associated Pneumonia Treated as Community Acquired Pneumonia Compared to Community Acquired Pneumonia Patients Treated with the same Therapy."

Yep. That's it in a nutshell. He won 3rd place in his conference and has an invitation to go to Washington DC in May. There he will present again.

I am hoping to join him, without the kids. I have a babysitter (mom please come) in mind.

Don't you love when you see your spouse succeed? And excel too? But, the best part for me is that I have this best friend and husband and father that no matter what success he has, puts us first. Always. 100% non-negotiable. That's what makes him the gold ribbon, first place, grand prize. And he didn't even have to win the 3rd place for me to know it.

Up in Flames, Down the Drain

So I have these little brothers that did something ghastly once. I was in the 9th grade when the first one came along (Jacob) and 13 months later came Isacc. I thought they were the cutest babies to ever exist. I would be so excited to come home from school to see them and hold them and if someone ever asked me if they were mine (like they thought I was a teen mom or something) I remember being a little flattered. They were that cute.

When Jacob was 3, and Isacc was obviously 2, I left for college at Utah State. (They really have never remembered me living at home with them, but my mom swears when they really hit those rough teen years they are coming my way. So, maybe I will live with them again.)

Well, on a frequent call home during my first year, I could tell I had called at the wrong time. My mom was a bit "overwhelmed" sounding. She mentioned that "the boys" had started a fire. A plastic spewing, seriously smoking, stenchy fire. That escaped from the living room fireplace to hit the ceiling. I knew my Grandma was coming to help. What in the world I thought? Who was watching them?

Come to find out, the fire started as a small appropriate fire in the fireplace. But while my mom was on the phone they took their blankies and piled their toys on them and then dragged their blankies to the fireplace and threw each of their toys in. Hence the plastic spewing. When I came home for break the smoke damage was still present. And 10 years later my brothers still have not lived it down.

This flashback memory hit me tonight during bath time for Emma and Landon. I was bathing them and vacuuming at the same time. ( We were watching them people.) We had a really full afternoon and Ryan was talking on the phone trying to get out the door for his night shift and I heard normal laughing and saw them both. They would yell at me and I would talk back to them and there was a sporadic THUD but it did not cause me too much concern. Until, I went closer. Their electronic toys were in the bath with them! The toy closet is right by the bath tub and Emma must have hopped in and out and grabbed them one by one (I said we were watching them!) So, as I looked in the bath of toys and just a little water, I instantly thought of that toy fire. And thought once again, "Who was watching them?"

I say Ryan for sure.

I HAVE THE CURE

for sleep training a baby.

I have (let me stress this) ACCIDENTALLY been taking sleeping pills at night instead of a nasal decongestant. For like a good week. The doctor in the house told me to take the "aqua" pills from his medicine cubby. So, I did and noticed:

1. Landon would wake up and cry at night, but I was too tired/groggy to get up out of bed and get him and I clearly would tell my mind, "give him just a minute more and see if he can work it out and then go get him." BUT, my body was too tired. And he must not have cried that long because it did not bug me as much (shall I say sleeping pill hangover?).

But, last night when I was taking my "nasal decongestant" Ryan and I were talking in the kitchen and he said, "HEY! Wait a minute! WHAT have you been taking? THIS?" and he proceeded to laugh so hard at me I thought he was going to choke. He said it's the "other aqua pill, don't you read?"

So, I took the real nasal decongestant last night. I did not sleep so soundly. I woke up. Landon slept through the night. He should. He's old enough. The sleeping pills cured him (or me would you say? ).
(ps- I know, way too many posts from me as of late. This is my journal. This had to be documented as a milestone.)

How do you know when it is time to Autumnize?

When my "neighba lady" (Traci- no blogger girl) begins her craftiness. And I get to benefit from her. It's hanging on my wall right now. Let the festivities begin. (Is this pumpkin so cute or what?)

I could have a whole LONG post about this neighba lady. I called her from Bakersfield because "someone" during my phone networking (named Sister Waykild) said, "I think there is another LDS family on that same street that you bought your house on. Let me give you a number." And that was how I met Traci. I called asking if she would do a "drive-by" and check out this house that we had pretty much bought off the internet (what were we thinking?). Sure she said (probably thinking, "who does that?"). She asked for the address and then said, "Hey, I think that is the house RIGHT ACROSS THE STREET. Let me go look out my window!". It was an answer to my prayers. She confirmed that the house did exist and was not just a front, but truly dimensional and that we bought in a good location. Yes, I did cry a tear when I had that conversation with her (she was thinking again, "Who does that to a total stranger on the phone?").

And ever since, I now look out my window at her sweet home and am thankful that I have her in my life. She sees me at my best (7am outfit at the bus) and at my worst (7am outifit at the bus). And, I love her. And her taco soup. And her extensions too.

(Okay, and her Dad too. He interviewed Ryan years ago for a calling in San Diego. He owns KFC's and we loved him . And remembered him. And Traci was that "daughter" he was talking about that lived in far off land of Kentucky. It was our destiny to meet.)

Up and At'em

Awake at 5:15. Ready for the day. I guess that means I was too. Back down again at 8:30 in the morning. Folded perfectly in half and with a snore. On with the day for me...

Today a series of events occurred that made me happy:

I picked Emma up this morning and she told me distinctly, " I love you". For the first time. She repeated it to Ryan and we both could not help but smile at her. What words are ever worth more than that? Tanner was at school, it would have been perfect if he were here to have heard it with us.

Landon is not walking yet. But trying. He was pushing around a little wood cart that has 4 wheels and was so excited at himself. He was yelling for us to watch him. Tanner began to cheer for him. "Go little Chubbas!" How could I ever miss this?

I got the opportunity to help someone out in a very minor way today. As I was leaving their home, their sweet little 8ish boy says to me, "Thank you! You really didn't have to. You outdid yourself." What do you say to that? I wanted to say, "Can I do it again everyday for the next week? Just to hear your innocent gratitude and see your sweet little face." I left with such a warm feeling.

Tonight was "Restaurant Night" at our house. Translation: Left-over night. I set the assortment out in as appetizing as a way as I can and then each gets a plate and picks. Like a buffet. (Did I say I am not a fan of leftovers?) As we are eating dinner Ryan asks Tanner what he's going to pay me? (I'm the chef at the restaurant and need to be paid). Tanner says he has no money to pay me and Ryan says that he will have to wash all the dishes then. Tanner started instantly crying. If this were the least of things he cried about throughout his life I would be a happy mom forever.

Daughter of Diane

What could I ever say to my mom to let her know how thankful I am that she had me? How could I ever express how grateful I am that I am HER daughter? What could I ever do for her to equal her gift of life to me? What form of gratitude is ever enough to thank the woman who birthed me and cared for me hours on end and tried her very hardest to love me and teach me how to make right choices?

I know there is never a limit to the gratitude that I can have towards her.

That said, I am turning 29. (No, not 30 yet. I am still savoring my 20's, thank you.) And want to make note of some gifts my mother has in commemoration of my birth:

-My mom has a design flair- she has a great sense of what goes together cosmetically. She can beautify any space- even my first college apartment. She sewed all my bed linens then and I still find that I look to her in times of my "textile" needs now.

- She is highly loyal. She loves all her friends and family deeply. One of her greatest attributes.

- Many know, but she can make an unbelievably awesome dark chocolate cake. She has followers. She is an overall excellent cook. She loved me enough to know that I don't do well with "weird" food and never made me eat it.

- A bargain shopper that often benefits those in her life. She finds a deal and many reap the benefits. And, you would not know it was an "economical" find either.

- She is a great sounding board. I have had concerns about various things throughout my life and she is great at bringing perspective and balance to my thoughts.

- She is willing to serve. I have fond memories of "pixing" (doorbell ditching) and watching her drop this gift or meal off to another. I remember going with her to drop off stake humanitarian kits at the Church Store and feeling so grateful for her and her serving diligently in her calling. She always serves faithfully. And I have always known it's because she has a testimony of the gospel and His hand in her life.

Wouldn't it be nice if I came with all these gifts just because I am hers? I cherish her as my mom, but especially because as I grow older I continue to learn more about her and her capabilities. Happy Birthday to me because of her.

DO I EVER WIN ANYTHING?

Not ever, usually. But today I hit the jackpot! I am a recipient of Mandee Grants "Pay it Forward". She was one of "the chosen" to be interviewed on c janes blog. Her obligation by being highlighted was to "Pay it Forward".
I told her a personal Christmas card would be so perfect. Anyhow, I will eventually post how I will "Pay it Forward"- per the contest rules of course. Lucky me huh?

Plane Peoples

Now that I have a minute, I wanted to mention one of the interesting people I met on the plane this past weekend. As I was wishing Landon would sleep, a motherly woman stopped me and told me she has 13 children and that she cloth diapered them all . She washed diapers first thing in the morning. She dreamt about cloth diapers. And, she had no washer and dryer (except for with the last child).

Now, I can say I did use cloth diapers for about 18 months while in the Caribbean BUT it was pretty much a 3rd world country. There was good justification for it. I was trying to save my husband a pretty penny (or dollar since a single diaper cost more than a buck). And I had an electric washing machine but no dryer. I did line dry, but the sun kept my diapers white and I liked that, except for when it rained, which it did, and then it was a pain to get them dry. This Mom said the same thing, during the winter she had "stiff as a board" cloth diapers from the line. That's how I knew she was telling me the real deal. You don't think about weather and diapers unless you are a user of cloth ones.

If someone went back to the states and had suitcase room, and was really generous as a treat, I would get a package of disposable diapers. But, really, Tanner was a cloth baby down there. And, he was not potty trained faster so the myth goes. But, hey we were in tropical paradise for 2 years of medical school-
But, sometimes I still wished the cruise ships would take me away and back to the states (okay even to Puerto Rico would have been nice. They had a variety of fast food that was absent where we lived).
As for the woman on the plane? Her husband left her for another woman and she raised 13 children in Utah, 4 of which died, then she remarried and her now husband cheated on her too. But, she stayed with him. And, she had no children with him. Good riddance cloth diapers!

Header fixed- removed poll. Thanks for the responses.

Please take my poll!

The girls told me that my header looked totally skewed. I said no way. It's fine on my computer. Well, when I was away I saw my blog on another computer and it was totally skewed. How embarrassing and what the heck? Tell me how it looks on your computer by answering my poll.
(Sorry, but it has to be as a perfect as I can perfectly make it. I feel like I have been caught with my skirt tucked up in the back.) Thanks.

I'm back

I loved being with the girls. These girls that know me so well and I them. I needed the time with them and look forward to the next annual event- maybe without a baby in tow? It was hard to say goodbye but I was anxious to get back as well. Did I say I love each of you?

Ryan took such good care of the homefront. A birthday party was in place for Landon with the cutest car cakes that Ryan made (I thought he bought them). We held his party over til the next day. It was a long trip back and late already when I got in.

Where's My Peeps?

Emma had a slight meltdown this morning while getting ready for the day. I was luckily able to diffuse the bomb before it caused much damage. The whole thing should have been a “no brainer” sense Lacey laid out 5-6 well matched outfits on Emma’s bed prior to her departure. I casually asked Emma what she would like to wear today pointing to the now limited assortment on her bed. She looked at me and said, “Shicken, daddy” (a.k.a. chicken). I politely ignored her comment and proceeded to hand her a purple shirt and pink shorts from the selection before me. She threw the shirt on the ground and in a louder tone exclaimed “Shicken, Daddy!” “Is she referring to an item of clothing?” I asked myself. “Is there something in her wardrobe with poultry on it? Na, she’s 2, she doesn’t know what she’s saying, right?” As I looked at her perplexed, again she cried out, “Shichen”, know starting to lose it. “Think Ryan, what the heck is she talking about… chicken…chicken?” Then it hit me. “Where’s my Peeps?” She did have a shirt with the before mentioned phrase with a little “chick” on the front. But could I find it. I hurried to the armoire frantically ruffling through stacks of nicely folded clothes. I found what I was looking for and revealed this treasure to Emma and her eyes lit up like Christmas morning. She smiled and sighed, “shicken daddy.” Whew! That was a close one. I’m sure Lacey would have known exactly what she wanted the first time she asked, mothers know those things and Emma’s is no exception.

I know what you’re all thinking, “Wow, two entries in two days. What’s his deal?” I had to keep up the blog in Lacey’s absence, she sets a high standard.

The Non-Rebuttal

I want to update all of you that have been concerned about the safety of my self and two of my three children, Tanner and Emma in the absence of our sweet wife and mother. I am pleased to report that the children are fine. Along with the children, no harm has come to my self, our vehicles, nor any Gamestop establishment. No one has been sited for negligence, child endangerment, nor contacted by law enforcement at any time. There was one incident of a garage door being left open until a call was made by a concerned neighbor at 12:30 AM (thanks neighbor). The garage was checked for stay dogs, cats, and migrant farm workers and no harm came of it. I would like to qualify that this is not a rebuttal to a previous entry but an opportunity to inform the public of our wellbeing.

For those of you wandering how the house hold is fairing with out its heart and soul let me report the following statistics:
1. Number of times the dish washer has run: 0 (paper is our friend)
2. Number of times the washing machine has run: 0 (the clothes look clean to me)
3. Number of times the garbage has been thrown out: 0 (except for poopies from Emma)
4. Number of hair styles Emma has had: 1 (it’s hard to be creative with a moving target.)
5. Number of meals made: 3 (including cereal for breakfast)
6. Number of times Emma has had an “accident” in public with out an extra diaper: 2 (sorry sissy.)
7. Number of hours the TV has been tuned-in to a Football game: data unavailable
8. Number of times the phrase “When’s mommy coming home” has been said: Too many to count.
9. A Dad spending the weekend with his two children: Priceless

I like to think of my parenting style as conservative, very conservative.

We miss our wife and mom. She makes every thing better. Come home safe and soon. We need you, Lay. We miss Landon too.

Love Always,
Ryan and two of your three children, Tanner and Emma

Happy Bithday Landon

I'm about gone, but wanted to make sure I posted something for him. How can I adequately express how grateful I was that he came easy for us? Almost unexpectedly and after a 4 year gap between Tanner and Emma, Landon arrived about 17 months behind her. While I was pregnant with him I had a pretty distinct impression that he was a boy and have not been surprised by his "softer" quality. How can I explain it. Yes he does cry and whine (a lot) but, there is a gentleness about him that is dear to my heart. He uses his pointer fingers, was my first real and timely crawler, has the growls of a little boy, is easily startled, needs little sleep, loved nursing (okay he is still nursing, I'm working on it), and at times still holds his legs and feet all wrapped up just like I imagined him inside.

He arrived almost 4 weeks early. My mom came into town in perfect time ( I cannot sing her praises enough) to help with the kids and when THE DAY came Ryan did not really think I was in labor, even at the hospital he stressed to me to not be "disappointed when they send you home". His highly sensitive physician bed-side manner was ever present (I wanted to whack him with the book he was reading). Yet, Landon did come, just 4 short hours later after being admitted. Ryan says he remembers being "exhausted" ( I think it was from his residency work hours?) But I remember seeing Ryan cry with me as we both realized he looked so much like Tanner, but with dark hair. He weighed in at a hefty 9 pounds 3 ounces and pretty immediately it became apparent that he had some sugar tolerance issues. He stayed in the NICU for 13 long days and I have never wanted anything more than to just bring him home. Although it was an exhausting time, we still had my mom here. My mother-in-law and sister Summer and dear friend Stephanie each said, if you need me I will be on a plane RIGHT NOW and family called all the time to check on us. How much every single gesture meant to me from near and far. Landon came to a home that greatly appreciated him and to the arrival of some of the very best family and friends I could not have hand picked better. May he always know it! May he always, always know how loved he is.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Girls Weekend starts Thursday!

Well, with Landon too.I'm leaving to go to my Aunt Julie's (for those of you that don't know her, she is more like an older sister- just a "bit" older than me.) and to meet my mom and sisters (thanks for the ticket Mom). Looking forward to seeing family in the Bay Area while I'm there. I'll be back on Sunday night (Landon's 1st Birthday). Tanner will be in school and my sweet friend Angela was bullied into helping me with Emma for just part of Thursday and Friday. Ryan can manage the rest of the time- no problem!

Just a short list of things I will gently remind Ryan about:

1. Don't leave the children ALONE in the car (again) that is left in reverse that then rams a Gamestop store at the entrance damaging the front door and scaring our children to DEATH, as well as the attendants in the store, and consequently has cause for the police to come and site you for child endangerment or abandonment with further legal proceedings .
2. Lock the house up when leaving and at night.
3. Feed the kids.
4. Change Emma's diaper- yes I know she is not potty trained yet.
5. Don't lose track of too much time while playing Wii- Tanner does have school on Friday.

Slight name change

I had an "in-house" comment (from someone named Ryan) who said he thought my blog title was LAME. And yes he said this in front of some friends, Ang & Jed. The SHAME. So to appease the king I am no longer, "And the journey goes on..."- okay, I admit, it was a bit cliche. He wanted me to name it "Williams, One Ring to Rule Them All." I said WHAT?- he said, "It's from Lord Of The Rings." So obviously a no go. He's way outvoted. (I know Ang and Jed think that is lame too.)

Check-in out for the day

Almost

tucked

in

here



Tanner wrote to 100 today and survived his last filling.

Emma said "Landon spilled!" Referring to the drool coming from his mouth. She wanted to wipe him up too.

And, Emma played "bippity, boppity, boo" with the smoothie straw from her Costco cup today. Berry mess everywhere. But, she distinctly thought she was a fairy godmother, waving her "wand" and singing at the same time.

Almost all clear with the Hand, Foot, Mouth. We still have a touch of a virus or something.

And lastly, I recieved a personal email from THE MANDEE GRANT, whom I don't know but love to read her blog. She made my day! She must have noticed all my page loads or something. And yes, I think there are "famous bloggers" even though Ryan says there is no such thing. Bet me! I'm a forever fan of hers.

Life here

1. Landon still has Hand, Foot, Mouth, Disease, but I can see the rash is getting better and have hopes to be fully recovered by Monday (or Tuesday or Wednesday please).

2. Ryan found out his commitment for Air Force deployments went up to 6 months maximum. That is a big difference from 3 months! I am trying to mentally get my mind around this. I knew when we committed they could do this too. Deployment really won't be a factor for the next 3 years. Maybe the war will end (please).

3. Ryan asked me what I thought about him becoming an allergist. Sounds good to me, and I anxiously look forward to the day when we decide what he is going to be (soon please!).

4. My MPV van came out of the shop with just $140 in work. What a relief. Just hang on little van (please).

5. The Air Force is giving significant raises. They effect us in 2 years (sooner please).

6. I want to go on a sisters weekend the end of September to San Jose, CA, but Ryan works night float (meaning all nights for 2 full weeks) and I don't know who could watch all my kids and get Tanner off to school and deal with Landon up through the night still. I look forward to the day when we are closer to family (please!).

7. Landon climbed up all the stairs to the second story without any warning. He surprised Ryan, who had gone up to change clothes and had left him safely at the bottom. Must keep the gates closed until he learns how to go down now (please).

8. Tanner has his last filling this week. It will be his very last in his whole life (pretty please with a cherry on top).

Tagged- The Beginnings of Ryan and Lacey

Oh geez, I was tagged by Melissa Mort. (thanks lady!)
The abbreviated version minus the drama-

1. Where did you meet your husband?
At a Northern California young single adult conference. He traveled up from Fresno with some cousins and a few girls and I went, just returning that day from a trip to Utah, and being prompted by my mom to “just go” when I otherwise would not have. It was being hosted where I lived, in Fremont.
2. What was the first thing you said to your husband?
”Uhm, (looking at my friend) I think he just asked you to dance.” Nope, he had asked me. Awkward.
3. Where was your first date?
The conference was 2 days. We went to the movie “At First Sight” and had Jamba Juices right after.
4. Where was your first kiss?
How embarrassing to say. That night. Going into the movie. He kissed me. (Emma better never!)
5. Did you have a long or short engagement/courtship?
We met January 20th and were engaged 6 weeks later on March 5th.
6. Where did you get engaged?
On his families farm in Sanger (just outside Fresno). I arrived to flowers and a note that prompted me to go to up and down the street (most of his Aunts and there families live there) and find the right uncle or right barn for the next clue. By the time the last clue came around I had the cutest gathering of half a dozen of his little cousins following along with me. They sent me into the field and sat up on the fence and watched from the distance as Ryan got down on one knee. I have very distinct memories of looking back to those little cousins and watching them cheer and clap.
7.Where did you get married?
At the temple in Oakland, California on June 25, 1999.
8. How did the reception go?
My family worked really hard. We had a lunch (great Chinese food catered) earlier in the day with family and then that night it was a garden ice cream social theme at my parents historic home in Los Altos, CA. We had a vintage ice cream cart and a serious dance party. Really. We left running through sparkler smoke to our hotel in San Francisco.
9. How was the honeymoon?
We went to Cabo San Lucas. 5 days there in Mexico. Ryan got sick on the food from our one “nice dinner out” and I’m not one to love international “ flava” so much. But, great memories.

Okay, I tag:
little sis Melissa
Stephanie Holladay
cousin Lori

Fess up ladies! Can you feel the love?

Hand, Foot, Mouth Disease

Landon has it. You can read more about it HERE. Sorry to anyone that has been around us and has been exposed. We know... we are black listing ourselves for a while.

Mom Sings It Right

You will smile at this. (thanks spackman)

It's a brand new year

Tanner started 1st Grade Wednesday. We only missed the morning bus once- out of 3. Pretty good for our first week. 7:10am call.

I'd like to blame this little darling.

She was sick with the flu and I was up with her and Landon (who was not sick) and by morning she was tucked in right next to me in bed and I so did not want to wake her. Her Dad took care of the morning routine with Tanner, hence the missed bus.

Emma too starts school. A preschool swap. YES, I know. I SAID I was going to say no. But the head leader (love Vicky) is all too persuasive and my "NO" did not come out so strong. But, the group of moms I am to be working with are organized and organized and organized. 6 cuties to the group. 5 week rotation. I can manage. Hey, did I mention I am in the nursery. The Junior. 12ish kids. Yah- I can manage half that at my own home. Can I?

Psssst

I would love to hear how the Williams family vacation went. I know the party went on without us- I keep checking your blogs for pictures...

Is it a conspiracy? Come on guys, give up some pictures or something- I promise you FREE medical consultations.

More Out of Towners

My family leaves tomorrow. We have gone to Mammoth Caves, had ice cream at Graetars, played at the parks, hunted for fireworks, played WII, watched Zac show us his acting skills from Summer Camp, had a yummy TRUE Sunday dinner including Mom's Chocolate Cake, jumped on the tramp with the sprinkler running AND my kids have loved having them here. Tanner wants to go back with them.

I have loved hearing of their experiences and seeing the pictures of places they have gone (check out The Adventurers soon to come awesome slide show). It will be a sad sad day when there truck pulls away tomorrow. Westward they go!

Tanner survived 3 of the 4 cavities being filled- the 4th to be done soon. He starts 1st grade on Wednesday. Ryan goes back to work and starts his month of research. I guess Summer's over. Back to some semblance of routine for me.

The Financer, Doctor, and Marketer

What could make three grown professional men jump like wild banshees? This.

It's a giant pillow. And I mean GIANT. I wish I had a better camera to show it off. That is not me on the pillow, but I did take my turn.

You can find this fun in Starlight, Indiana, about 45 minutes from our house. You can pick seasonal fruits at this great family farm. But, our intention quite honestly, was the Pillow. Well worth it and great company with the Golds and Smiths (we love them!)

Ryan in pre-flip stance... Amy Smith (I promise it's not me) bouncing all the kids off...
Our family arrives tomorrow. I think my brothers will like it. As well as the corn, rope and bamboo mazes, and mountain slide that is so fast! Come see us! We'll take you there!

Vacation

Hang On (to the ear)

And, don't let go (of the hands)

Ryan is on official vacation. We went here for an outing. It was an all day adventure. Really hot and humid. We mined from the sluice bag bought from the store there. Tanner came home with gems of all sorts- all "real gold" and priceless in his eyes.

We have a list of things to attack the next week or so, as well as a visit from these awesome adventurers. But, Tanner and his fillings comes tomorrow. Ryan's assignment.

(ps- Ryan's name has come up for Chief Resident! No surprise to me, lots of factors, but such an honor. Too bad he has still not determined WHAT he wants to specialize in. Lately, he's gone through GI to Oncologist, the latter specialty spot was somewhat offered to him here at UofL. He is now thinkin Pulmonary Critical Care. A lung doctor. He has research lined up for this for the whole month of September. Maybe, just maybe, he's found his spot? I hope- )

And away they go

So my sister Melissa left. What a sad day. Tanner said, "I feel like crying." Well, I did. We live too far from family. And dear friends. Missing the Williams Family Vacation this week as well. I'll try not to think about it.

Melissa-isms, Headbows and the Food Network

I still get to have Melissa here. It is so neat to see my little sister with her first baby and watch her love and care for her. She is such a sensitive attentive mother and I feel inspired by her to better mother my own. As I mentioned before, Izzy seems so mild mannered. Maybe that is compared to my own beastly babies? The saving grace, and what keeps us thinking we can have more children, is that my babies do grow out of it. I wish I could say I forget the colic period, but that is a lie. The incessant cry seems to fade in my ears, but I do not forget. (can you hear the crying from Landon?) Melissa-ism #1: Landon crying in the car makes Melissa's "Ear Curdle". I mentioned I thought it was "Blood Curdle", but not to Melissa. Good to know.

Last night Melissa ran to Target to return something with Izzy. She came home and Izzy was crying. I picked her up and patted her and Melissa laid on the bed and said, " Why does my baby hate me?" WHAT? What in the world I thought? Izzy is calmed and soothed by her. Izzy can recognize her voice and settle. Izzy sleeps all day sometimes. I did laugh. But, Melissa was serious. It surprised me since I had been shopping with her and noticed her fussing more but nothing outrageous. As I mentioned, Melissa is so sensitive to her. Melissa said, " I hate when everyone is looking at me and staring at the store when she is crying!" I really tried to minimize the social impact for her. Melissa mentioned if she had babies like I had she did not know what she would do. Hence, the second Melissa-ism: she said I had the patience of Yoda. Yes, I said, Yoda. Like Star Wars. I will forever bear that as my highest compliment. Thank you Melissa.

As for headbows, I know my gal friend, Nathalie, makes really cute bows too (the headbands are cut from tights). Just a novice, we picked up some felt to make flowers, an idea picked up from Heather Bailey (whom my sister-in-law nanies for. I think Heather is famous, hence Jill is totally connected). Not too much effort and fun to do for my niece.

And with silk flowers

Finally, we hit this restaurant Melissa called me about months ago and told me I had to go there cause Bobby Flay from the Food Network did a show there. Lynn's Paradise Cafe. Totally quirky. Melissa had some weird Kentucky dish, that I have never had in my entire year here, and it was totally kid friendly. Glad we took our daily outing there.



And yes, that is a man-size teapot spouting dish-soap bubbles. In the parking lot. I told you it was quirky.

I have out of towners

Lucky me! Been a bit busy with my little sister, melissa, and her really sweet, super-squishy coma baby Izabelle (she sleeps alot, hence the coma part). We have managed to make her think I have lost my mind on some days ( I put Emma in the Car Seat and forgot to buckle her in. Melissa: "Ahh, she got out of her car seat!). In trying to protect Izzy from the bottom 2, we have stepped on Izzy's face, wacked her with a hard toy, and I dropped a bottle of shampoo on her head in the bath. She cries so soft compared to any baby I have ever had! I really can not get enough of her.

Melissa has been such a trooper! We stick to my one outing a day policy and so, we are homebound alot. Landon had to go to the doctor yesterday, he had a weird infected bite on his finger and it had to be lanced. They started him on antibiotics. No surprise to us. To costco today and hopefully the Zoo tomorrow. We also made Izzy some of the cutest headbands ever! Melissa is a good person to craft with- she beats Ryan anyday.

I love having out of towners like my sister.

Run, Run as Fast as You Can!

The dentist. Tanner had his cleaning and "inspection" and was deemed 4 cavities. Emma, upon seeing Tanner in the chair and the dentist in a long white coat reminiscent to Dad's (possibly to many pediatric practice exams?) would have nothing to do with it. So, almost 90 minutes later, and with 2 of the 3 running to escape the confines of the dental office and the 3rd crying to be let down. We left. With a sigh (and the receptionist saying for the 5th time, "You have your hands full!") . Outing for the day accomplished. And yet, Tanner still has to have his cavities filled. I'll save that for Ryan on his vacation.

So Nice!

I got a message and CD left in my mail box last night. In a previous post I had mentioned only one small moment of insanity- hence the package in my mailbox today. I will spare the details of my brief moment of insanity (yes, I am okay and it passed and I feel much better and I think I am normal). The note was heartfelt and the talk attached to it profound (My Home as a Temple by Kristine Manwaring) and a CD of consider the Lillies of the Field. Made such a difference in my day and was such a nice sweet gesture (thanks Marla)!

(Let me digress a bit about the talk, I love, " Christ fed multitudes with limited tangible resources in a miraculous example of His attention to our physical as well as spiritual hunger. He washed the feet of his disciples to illustrate the humble service required of a Master and to reveal what He was willing to do that we might be entirely clean. In the book of Moses he states that He, Himself, made the coats of skins to clothe Adam and Eve. When seen in this new light, my perceptions on tasks like peeling potatoes and scrubbing floors began to turn upside down and inside out. It was becoming obvious to me that when we care for the physical as well as spiritual needs of our families, we are patterning our lives after the Savior.")

I have had so many people do nice things for me- I could fill an encycopedia! I thought about it off and on today and must share. Landon was born almost a month early and big. He was in the NICU for 14 long long days and it just seemed to be the worst thing that ever ever happened (yes, time does bring perspective) but I hated having to leave the hospital without Him. We were in a new state with a new job and new everything and it seemed pretty lonely. My mom was here and served my family endlessly (so nice) and then I got two large boxes on my doorstep. Postmarked Bakersfield, CA..... my home that we had just left. As I opened these boxes I was so touched too find a literal "shower by mail" from my home ward (so nice)- they had not forgotten me! The nicest, nicest, nicest gifts that were handmade and so loved! It touches my heart still.

Of recent, there has been the soup my neighbor fed me for dinner (so nice and yummy), the invite to FHE, the helper at the post office, the quick call to check on me by friends, the pick up of Tanner to get him to a movie I could not sit through with my two babies, my sisters (and sisters-in-law) always calling and telling me they love me, the verbal cheers of support I get from my mom and mother-in-law, all so nice! And, I am so thankful!

Always in Motion

Good Afternoon Landon

and... it's Friday

Just a bit to check "done" off my list this week:

• babysat (3 more plus mine at once) and snowcones x 2
• swim team first thing in the morning x 3
• organized pantry in the basement on costco racks x 2
• grocer x 2
• library with my 3, and one of which is a toddler that has no library etiquette, x 1 (that was enough!)
• to the zoo x 1
• swing, swing, swing x 3 (dozen)
• water in the inflatable pool x 2
• lunch for a friends bday x 1 (with Landon- not the most enjoyable)
• made some family blogs (yah!) x (whose counting ?)
• the mom things (like laundry- which did not get behind, the kitchen floor cleaned twice- on my knees of course, bathroom maintenance, daily vacuuming required with my kids, the lawn mowed too- okay, thanks Ryan to that) x done routinely
• ...and only a mild moment of insanity x (just) 1 (should you always tell the truth?)

I'm getting bloggy

I am getting so excited to have family start their own blogs.... thanks Jocelyn & Jamie, my web savy blog helpers.

Gotta Love Costco- Insider Secret!

So, today as I was shopping at Costco for laundry detergent, I passed an item in the cleaning section that listed it's price as ".97". I thought "hmmmmm- that can't be for real, but what the heck, I'll see what it rings up." Mind you, and I like to think that this happens to many people that go through Costco, I was trying to control my impulse buying. So, I got to the register, and yes, the Spot Chomp World's Best Carpet Stain Remover 3 pack was 97 CENTS! What a find! So, this is the secret:

Costco, NATION WIDE, lists products that end in .97 for, you got it, 97 cents. That's what the Cashier said! Also, if they are clearing an item, they do the same. The Costco Cashier says she sees this all the time. I wanted to know where a list was and she says Costco does not advertise or promote this "secret". You have to just hit it right. Often times there is a * next to the price.

So, in thinking, wouldn't it be nice if I got that Ipod Nano or WII or Steam Cleamer I was looking at for 97 cents? Too good to be true I'm certain, but I have my reciept that shows 97 cents. I'm a believer. I am going to be a very watchful Costco Consumer for now on! Hey, check it out at your Costco.

Grandma

I've been thinking about my Grandma. If there was ever anyone that I knew loved me as a child, other than my mom, it was my Grandma. Every day would start off with our arrival to her house. She would have hot cooked cereal for us and little tiny orange juice glasses filled with Donald Duck frozen concentrate orange juice. After breakfast, we would be off to school, my sisters and I, walking the few blocks or so together. We were welcomed home after school to a snack of cowboy cookies, or scratch chocolate pudding, or whatever she had made. She had these great little chairs that we could pull around to climb up on and watch as she worked in the kitchen.
My strongest memories are of sitting by her side as she sewed in her little tiny sewing room that housed bolts of fabrics and endless thread trimmings and buttons and zippers. I would talk with her as she sewed aprons or blankets or hemmed and anything that I needed she could make for me.
As I got older I would sometimes travel with her as she went to visit her mother in a nursing home. She would pack extra bananas and fruit and as she walked down the halls of the convalescent hospital elderly in wheel chairs would seek her out and were gifted her fruits and she would greet them all. She would visit with her mom, who was ailed with Alzheimer's and frail, and she would always take her laundry home to wash it herself.
She rode a bike for exercise, cleaned her shower with bleach, always had her bed made, never seemed to be sick, didn't like ice in her drink, hung her sheets on the line outside, and loved me. I say this because she was a wonderfully perfect grandmother to me, but would never receive the accolade's that those in the spotlight receive. Her days were repetitive and full (I'm sure) and her tender hand, encouraging word, and selfless manner have greatly influenced my life. Busy with my own small children, often times the pressure of having to take on "one more thing" can feel like such a dread. I watched my Grandma take on countless "one more things"- I was one of them. I am always mindful of how fortunate I was to be loved so well by her.