Snow

On Friday after I picked the girls up from school, we came home, had lunch, cleaned up around the house and packed up to go up North. Brian got home around three and we headed off to his parents' cabin in Munds Park. His dad rode with us on the way. The girls did really well on the way up, so that was nice. We got there a little before five and got out of the car and froze! We made our way into the house--the snow was piled so high, we had to park across the street and walk around to the back door. When we stepped, our feet sunk through and the snow was up to almost to our knees. We got in and got our stuff in. Brian's dad got the fire going in the stove to warm things up. I keep waiting for the heater in the house to be turned on, but it wasn't. I was like--ummm...we have to heat these rooms up. So finally Brian convinced his dad to turn the heat on long enough to heat up the rooms so our girls (and us) wouldn't freeze. They were walking around shivering with their noses running. Once things got warmed up it was much better. Chrystalyn and her kids showed up a little later. I made Ramen for the kids and Brian and I had soup that we had gotten at Costco. Yum! That night we sat around and talked for a bit, had some lemon cake and went to bed. Hattie had a rough time! We put her down and I had to go back in a couple of times to get her to lay down. About an hour after we thought she was sleeping, she woke up! And I don't think she went to bed until after 11. We tried putting Libby in there and Libby fell asleep, but Hattie was still awake. Brian went in there for a bit and figured out why Hattie wouldn't sleep. Libby would snore every so often and Hattie would laugh! Once she went to sleep, she did well. I slept in the other room with Ellie and Eliza. Ellie was restless, so it was less than desirable night, but we survived!



This morning we got up around 7 and had breakfast. The kids played together and I played Monopoly Express with Chrystalyn and Sara. Around 9, we layered up and headed out to the snow. We played out back and front for a bit. The kids had fun throwing snow at each other and making snow angels. Then we got in the car and searched for a hill to go sledding. We found one right in Munds Park. All the kids had fun! Brian took Ellie down crying and she decided she didn't like it! I think it was the face full of snow they got at the bottom. Eliza went down a ton and had a blast. She was cruising down the hill! I convinced Libby to go down starting a little lower on the hill so we didn't go so fast. She still said she didn't like it. My favorite run was on my stomach. I had to reach out and stop myself so I didn't run into the tree.











After sledding we came back to the cabin and Brian, his dad and the kids built a snowman. I went inside with Ellie and Hattie and made sandwiches for lunch. Eventually we got everyone out of their snow clothes and had lunch. Then they wanted hot cocoa to warm up a bit. Yum. We played games in the afternoon and the kids played together. Overall, we had a great time.


I had to get a picture of this tree that is right in front of the cabin. As I was looking at it, it's like lots of eyes looking at you! So weird.

Today Libby woke up and was fever free. I was afraid she would have gotten so used to staying home that she wouldn't want to go. She complained a little bit but did just fine. They had early release today, so right after they left it seems, I was on my way to pick them up. When we got home, Libby plopped on the couch, covered up and went right to sleep! Then she started getting a fever again. Ugh. She rested most of the day and took some Motrin and she doesn't have a fever anymore. Let's hope that was the end of it! Eliza "babysit" Ellie and Hattie for me for a bit. She just played with them out back and was cute with them while I took care of Libby inside. We went out front while Libby was sleeping, then Eliza had a play date with a friend. We played out front again after naps (brrr!). Right when Brian got home I was off to parent teacher conferences. Libby was first and she is doing well. Her teacher is going to try to put her in a first grade class for reading, but it will all depend if Libby will go for it. We aren't sure if she'll be too shy or what. I am anxious to see if she will go.

Next was Eliza and her teacher is impressed with her, too, so that is always good to hear. Tonight I hope to record my audio message for my BPS class and get to bed early for hiking tomorrow.

Third Day is a Charm

Seriously!!! I thought for sure Libby would be better for school today. But she still had a 103+ temp. this morning. So once again we broke her heart telling her she had to stay home again. She rested a while longer in bed, then rested on the couch for a bit. My mom came over for bread day. I guess it felt pretty productive to make bread since I've been feeling unproductive the past couple of days! I am ready for everyone to feel better. It's been since last Tuesday that we've had sickies. I am ready for well kids. As I was separating the dough into loaves, I had three extra hands (or maybe six) trying to swipe my dough!!! They were grabbing at the big thing of dough every time I was weighing my dough or cutting some off or putting it in the pan. I couldn't keep their hands off it. And of course my mom was just leisurely getting her dough into loaf pans and chuckling at my helpers. Thanks!

We hung around the house until time to pick up Eliza, then the girls played out front a little bit before dinner. Oh yeah--on the way to get Eliza we stopped and got the mail. The girls got a box from my parents, but I made Libby wait until Eliza was in the car. She couldn't hardly wait. As soon as Eliza got in the car, they ripped it open. It was a baggie of Valentine goodies for each girl. They loved it and smiled all afternoon. Hattie especially loved her bracelets. Ellie loved reading the Valentines and eating the candy. Eliza and Libby loved eating and the bracelets, too.



Hattie is so funny lately. This morning when Brian left--we were in the playroom and Hattie heard the garage open for him to leave. She said really loudly, "BYE!! DAD!" Anytime someone leaves or looks like they are going to leave, she says, "Bye!" Tonight when Brian left for mutual, he was telling everyone goodbye. She said, "Kiss. Kiss." So he gave her a kiss and was starting to leave again. Then she said, "Hug!" So he gave her a hug--it was so cute of her.

In other Hattie news--when she was one we had her off her pacifier even though she just used it at night for getting to sleep. Well, softy (a.k.a. Brian) would sneak it to her on occasion for naps or if she was having a harder time getting to sleep. Actually I think it was when we had babysitters over, he'd tell them it was okay to give her a pacifier. Anyway...so she's had it on and off for naps and nighttime since then. For a while I had her off it at night and only gave it to her during naps. Then again--softy--would give it to her during naps if she wasn't going to sleep. Ack! I told him I was fighting a losing battle if he was giving it to her and I was trying to get her off it! I do admit sometimes I'd oblige and give it to her so she would take her morning nap or take a better afternoon nap. One time at night she was crying so hard, so I went in and said, "What is the matter? Do you need something?" She said, "Yes." I said, "What?" She said, "Pacifier." LOL. Anyway...so I decided since she is almost two--that she needs to be completely done with it. She is our only child who has ever used one, so this is new for us. So the past couple of days I have done some tough love. I just told her a while before her naps--"Hattie--you are a big girl now, you don't need a paci anymore." She say, "Okay." She did well during her naps. Tonight I put her down and she cried for a while, so I went back in there. And instead of giving in like I would (softy #2), I just hugged her in her crib (she was standing up) and I said, "Hattie--you are a big girl; no more pacis." She said, "Okay," and lay back down. She didn't make a peep after that. I was shocked. I hope it'll still be this easy tomorrow night.

Home Again Home Again, Libbity Lib

Libby still had a fever this morning, so she had to stay home again. She teared up again and cried silently. Poor girl. So today she played computer, read, watched movies, ate popsicles, etc. Let's hope she gets better for tomorrow. At lunchtime, Becky hosted a lunch for a lady in our ward (and the lady I do activity days with) because she is moving. It was fun to get together to wish her well. My mom actually came over before I left to stay with Libby so I could go. Libby was quite excited to have one-on-one with her. They drew pictures and colored and read The Friend together.

This afternoon I had activity days.
I wish this picture came with a button so you could click and hear the volume. When the girls came over, it was instantly LOUD!!! I mean LOUD!!! Brian even commented, "Holy cow!" Just the noise of the chit chatting times about 12. I was laughing inside and had to take a picture. For the activity, the girls made valentines. They had fun--can you tell?



Here is Ellie enjoying one of the cookies that Karolyn and kids brought over. It was so sweet of them and hit the spot. Ellie wanted me to take a picture of her dirty hands! She thought it was so funny.

Another Sickie and Yum!!!

I thought we had a third one down with strep. Libby started with a little fever last night and when she woke up this morning she still had a fever. I kept her home and took her in to the dr., since I figured her chances were good to get strep. When she was still in bed this morning, I told her that she would have to stay home....big tears welled up in her eyes and she started crying. She doesn't not like having to miss school. It was so sad. A while later, she said, "Do you think they've lined up yet?" She really misses it when she is not there.

We got an appt. right away, so I took her in and she had a throat culture. I was wondering how she would react to that if she'd even easily let them get it. She was kind of in shock--wondering what they were doing trying to gag her. She grabbed the nurse's hand and pulled it out. So I had to hold her hands while she got it. She started laughing after it was over. It came back negative, so it's just a viral something. Today has been rest and rest so hopefully she can go back to school tomorrow. We didn't really do much else since it was too cold and wet to go outside. We did pick Eliza up from school, but other than that it was movies and laying on the couch for Libby, playing for Ellie and Hattie and vacuuming and laundry and tending Libby for me. When Brian came home, he braved the cold and grilled some steaks. Yum! I made potatoes and corn and it was a great meal--everyone loved it. We have some meat lovers in our family!

We had a fairly quick family home evening so we could get everyone to bed early. Libby was so excited to get a new copy of The Friend in the mail. She (and Eliza) love that magazine. She has already read most of it. It's just cute to see them get so excited about it!

And I just saw this...mmmm...I can't wait to try one.

Sunday

It sure rained in the night! It got so loud at times! But I love waking up to rain. It was cold today, too! This morning Brian had mentioned that the girls have been doing well in church lately. I think that jinxed us. It was a little chaotic today. Hattie had to go out about halfway through and Libby wanted to read but she was reading out loud and up and down a lot. Argh! But we managed!

In Sacrament we had a returned missionary who just got back two days ago from Japan. Talk about culture shock right away! One of the young women also spoke about feeding our spiritual selves. I loved all her analogies to food and relating to our spirituality. In Sunday school we had a great lesson about personal revelation and how to receive answers to our prayers. I always love the stories that people share. I taught in relief society. I didn't have much time--only about a half hour. I knew I had a ton of stuff to get through so I felt rushed! I really learned a lot from preparing it, so I guess that is all that matters.

This afternoon we went to Brian's parents' for dinner. It wasn't our scheduled family dinner, but Jenny was here from Flag and it just worked out, so we went. We had a yummy tater-tot casserole. The kids played outside until it got too cold for the parents' liking. We visited a little more, then came home!

Chocolate

Today Libby had her soccer jamboree. Instead of a tournament for the little kids, they get together and do little games and have a bouncy thing and cotton candy. Everyone but Libby and Brian loved the cotton candy and all the girls but Hattie enjoyed the bouncy. Libby didn't want to do any of the soccer-y games, so she sat and watched. Then she and several of the other kids enjoyed looking for and finding ladybugs in the grass. Before we left, she got her medal. I think that officially ends her soccer season. Insert applause here!




We went over to my parents and got a couple of pizzas for lunch. The kids played a while, then we headed over to the Chocolate Affair in Downtown Glendale. Every year for the past several years we've gone and taken the kids to make chocolate pizzas at the Cerretta's booth. My dad knows the Cerretta's and each year they give my dad coupons for the all the grandkids to make a pizza. It was quick but fun--and will be even more fun to eat them when they harden up.


From there we headed home and the girls played out front and helped Brian pull weeds while Hattie napped and I cleaned up inside. We cashed in on some free babysitting from a service auction a while back when I was still in young women's. So I picked up Michelle and Brian and I headed to the temple. It's always nice to go and uplifting, too. We had a coupon for Rosa's, so we had that for dinner. We both decided that the chips and salsa were the highlight of the dinner. We weren't loving our dinners but the chips and salsa were great! We made a quick stop at Cabela's on the way home since Brian had a gift card from Christmas. He hasn't decided what he wants yet, so we'll be back. We had another coupon for 31, so we got a sundae before heading home. It was a nice (and cheap!) night out. Now I am putting the finishing touches on my lesson for church tomorrow!

Driving

Today I felt like I was in the car all day! This morning I went hiking with Jen and Kari, then after Libby left for school and Brian went to work, the rest of us got ready and we went to my mom's. We loaded up and headed to Mesa for the Modbe outlet sale. I went with the intention to get a birthday present for a party Eliza and Libby had today. The girl's selection was slim-pickins, but I was able to find a little cami and a cute top with buttons. I was tempted to get a couple things for me but I resisted. I did manage to embarrass Eliza though by trying a couple things on over my clothes. She was like, "Mom! Stop!" I had brought our lunch, so we ate in the car, then headed home.

Soon after we got home, we loaded up again to get Libby from school. She was so excited about her day today. She was the helper in her class, then she got to get a cookie from Paradise Bakery because she filled up a row on her chart at home, and she had a birthday party to go to. We came home from school for a few minutes, then headed back out to the party. Ellie was so sad to have to stay with me. She really loves her sisters and loves to be with them. Eliza and Libby had a great time at Sadie's party. They got to decorate cupcakes--big and little. They made bracelets, painted nails, jumped on the trampoline and just had fun! We came home and played outside for a while before coming in for dinner and bed.

Two Down (Hopefully 0 to go!)

This morning I took Ellie in to the doctor. One look at her throat and he figured she had strep. It was pretty bad. I hadn't thought to look at it before though. Bad me. It makes sense now--last night she was saying her chest hurt, so I figured it was probably congestion or something. It must have been her throat. So they did a culture (she didn't like it!), but it came back negative. On my way home from the doctor, I got a call from Eliza's school and she was in the nurses' office with a sore throat and slight fever! So I zoomed over to pick her up, so I was nurse to Eliza and Ellie today. They both rested on the couch and watched Annie Get Your Gun. I called the doctor back to see if I should bring Eliza in, too, just in case and he wanted me to. So we went in with her and she was positive for strep! So he gave her an Rx for antibiotics and he looked at Ellie's throat again and gave her one, too. So it's been a busy day!

This evening I went to a baby shower for a friend who is having her first girl. Those are always so fun.

I am crossing my fingers that no one else gets sick!

Hot Hot Hot

Well, Ellie still had a fever all last night and all today. We were up several times in the night with her and she slept on Brian most of the night on the couch. She has been high and a little lower all day. I called the doctor and he wants to see her tomorrow just to make sure there isn't something else causing it (other than just the flu). Poor girl. Tonight our home teacher came over and help Brian give her a blessing. It was neat for the girls to be there to see that, too.

We really haven't done too much else. I missed running this morning. I was too tired and I felt like I needed to be home to help in case she got up.

Sheesh...this is turning into a boring post...let me see what else I can mention...Oh...my grandpa was in the hospital a couple of days ago with some pains and they decided to keep him to run some tests. He was in overnight and they decided to do the test another time so they sent him home. Well, we have made an effort to keep him in our prayers--my girls especially. Ellie remembers to pray for Grandpa Bert, Hattie says, "Grandpa Bird," and tonight during Eliza's prayer, she said, "And thank you for letting Grandpa Bert get out of the hospital. Please help his test to go well. And please help him to breathe and that he'll live a few more years." I thought that was so cute and funny.

Ouch

Yesterday Hattie slipped off her chair at lunch and cut her lip--inside and out. It was bleeding immediately, so I cleaned her off to try to assess the damage. I wasn't sure if she bit through or if she needed stitches or what. It stopped bleeding pretty quickly and it looked like she has bit the inside with her bottom teeth and bit the outside with her top teeth. I tried calling my pediatrician neighbor, but he was at work, so I just called into the office. The doctor said to just leave it. She has been fine and hasn't complained much about it except when she accidentally bumps it. It's pretty messed up inside and bruised, not to mention a huge fat lip, poor girl.

Then today Ellie started having a fever. She has still wanted to play, but it has fluctuated quite a bit. She is sleeping now, but it's still high! Hopefully she can sleep it off.

Going Green (for Red)

Friday morning we ran and hiked. It was so windy it chilled us! Brrr. When I got home and after the school girls left, I cleaned the house. Ellie and Hattie played princesses so well with each other for a while, so that allowed me to get a lot cleaned. After we got ready, ate lunch and played outside for a bit, I grew tired of being stuck at home (I had a dead battery for a couple of days), so I decided to just load up and drive around a bit. Ellie suggested we go to PetSmart to see the animals. So we did that. They got excited about the fish, cats, dogs in doggie day care and the dogs being groomed. Then we went to Target and just browsed for a bit. Before long, it was time to get the girls from school. We came home and Brian got home not too long after.

Brian and I decided to go out Friday night. It has been a very long time since we have been out and it was much needed. We got a sitter and went to the local high school to watch one of my former young women play in her JV basketball game. It was fun to watch and reminisce about the days when I used to play. After the game we headed to a old favorite for dinner. We went to Valle Luna. We hadn't been there in years! We had gotten a coupon in the mail, so we decided to go there. It was so crowded! But the food was good and hit the spot. Since we were so close, we grabbed some custard on the way home.

I had to take a picture of Eliza yesterday. She looked so cute. I just love her style. She has such a classy style and loves to put outfits together--shoes and all. She is always changing her earrings to match and finding the right bracelet or necklace to wear. I love her!


Yesterday morning, I joined some friends on a hike. When I got home Brian left and he and Jason went mountain biking. While he was gone, we got a wild hair and decided to make Valentine's this year instead of buying them, hence "going green." We decided on a super simple design--a stitched heart with a couple of Valentine related stamps, then Eliza and Libby signed their names. Super fun and easy and using everything that we already had on hand.


In the afternoon I went to a bridal shower/Pampered Chef party rolled into one that my neighbor gave for her sister. Her sister actually got married a couple of years ago, but they didn't have a reception or bridal shower. So this was to help make up for it. She will totally have a stocked kitchen now! When I got home, Brian took the four girls on a little drive out and around Lake Pleasant so I could work on my class for BPS, which I was able to almost finish. After they returned, it was a whirlwind of dinner, baths and bed. Fun, crazy day!

Today we actually left for church at our "goal time!" I think me getting up about 10 minutes earlier helped. Church went well. I enjoyed the testimonies during sacrament. After church we came home and I made a couple of things to get ready for dinner. My parents came over along with Brian and Kamille and their kids. We had Cafe Rio pork and all the fixings. I can't ever get enough of the creamy tomatillo dressing (no comments, Dad or Brian!). They were making fun of me. I made a yummy chocolate layer cake and pink rice krispies for dessert. I used strawberry marshmallows instead of regular. They added just a hint of sweet flavor and were yummy. Here is the recipe for the cake. It was delish and pretty easy to make! We watched the Super Bowl and dang, what a game!!! I thought they were going to pull it out. But those last two minutes, darn it!!!!! So frustrating! I had fun cheering (and apparently entertaining my brother while doing so). Man, it was sooooo close!!! Maybe next year?!?!

Wednesday

Tuesday--
Yesterday I had Activity Day. For our activity we had a "Friend Bowl." Basically it was a trivia game based on the January issue of The Friend magazine. It was lots of fun and the girls did pretty well. The funny thing is that the scores were added up and so I gave the winning team candy bars as a prize. Then the scores were added up again and it was discovered that the other team really won!! (Only after the candy bars were opened and partly consumed). Luckily I had some extra and gave the other team their winning prize, too. It was pretty comical.

After the girls were going to bed, I made a stop at Karlee's to get some fabric for some upcoming gifts. I got some really cute fabrics and I was actually able to get some sewing done today. It was so fun to work with some new fabrics. Then I went to Jodi's to work on her wedding invitations that I am doing for her.

Wednesday--
I was a bit ambitious this morning and braved the cold weather and ran 4.5 miles this morning. I was happy to be able to do that. I came home and got ready and helped the girls get ready and off to school. Soon after Kari brought her girls over to play. I think she spent her time at the car wash getting her car cleaned from her mouse who found a home in her car. Eww! My visiting teachers came over in the afternoon, then it was the afternoon rush...the school girls got home, Carson played for a bit, we played outside, then we had pancakes for dinner. Brian had did a seminar for work, so he didn't home until later. My parents stopped by to visit for a little bit, so that was nice to pass the time a bit until Brian got home. After Ellie and Hattie got to bed, Eliza and Libby spent some time on The Friend site on lds.org playing games and listening to stories. Around 9, Leslie picked me up and we went to Becky's for a little girls' night. We weren't there too long and I didn't work on anything, but it was fun to visit and munch on some of Becky's specialty-her Andie's Mint cookies. Yum!


And I'm so in love with this cutie. She is so fun. Lately she has loved playing with these little princess figurines. Today she set them on the bar stool and was clapping for them and dancing for them.


(She can't get enough of that skirt. Today she got it out of the dirty clothes and brought it to me, saying, "Skurt, skurt." LOVES wearing it.)

Trophy?

It was awfully cold this morning for our run. We went a little further than normal, but we did well and it felt good. After getting home, it was breakfast and getting the girls off to school. After lunch I had to make a run to Wal-Mart for some items for Activity Day tomorrow. Soon enough it was time to get the girls from school. Eliza and Libby were excited to do their chore since I told them I had a treat for them. They had earned it for going to bed so great. They don't get one all the time, but Libby did well last night, so it was worth rewarding. We tried going out front for a bit, but I got too cold (and I think they did, too), so we came in and hung out inside. Libby got the stack of Friends and read them for a while. She loves to read. After dinner, we had family home evening. I did the lesson about friends from the Before They Turn Twelve book. I think my girls really enjoyed the interactive story, so hopefully they'll remember it! To end, we had ice cream and homemade hot fudge. Yum!

Libby missed her game on Saturday to go to the birthday party, so her cousin who is on the team with her brought her trophy when they came last night for dinner. Eliza thought it was a bit strange that she got a trophy when she never played! I think Brian and I earned it for sure though! And I guess she helped her team some in practice and being there, right?! She is very proud of it though and has it displayed in her room.


Oh and another thing I want to write down so I don't forget...my girls love going on the hilly roads near our church building. When we are driving that way, they beg us to go home that way. So after school--although it's not technically on the way home--they asked if we could go. As soon as we start on any incline or downhill (or on any street that goes up or down), Hattie puts both arms up and yells like she is on a roller coaster. It is so funny. Maybe I can get a picture of it sometime!

Castles & Coasters

Friday morning Kari watched my girls in the morning while I did some things at home and went visiting teaching. It's nice to trade kids with her since we have girls much the same age. After I picked them up, we came home and made bread. We had just enough time to do that before getting Eliza and Libby from school. Eliza had a friend come over and play after school for a while. I feel asleep putting Eliza to bed, so that was it for me on Friday.

On Saturday Brian had to go into work for an appointment, so we did some cleaning at home and played out front. Around lunch time, my brother's family came over and dropped off their son Luke. Then they took off with Brian, Eliza and Libby to Castles & Coasters. It was my niece and nephew's birthday party. I stayed home with Ellie, Hattie and Luke since they were too small to enjoy it. They had such a great time...going on ride after ride after ride. I was sad to miss, but we had fun here at home. That evening, I loaded up the kids and met everyone at my parents' house for pizza and ice cream. What a nice way to end the evening!








Today was ward conference. We made it on time. We are perfecting our getting-ready time and keep getting better every week. The meetings were so great and I heard several things that I needed to hear. Eliza and I sang in the choir...we sang "More Holiness Give Me." A couple things that President Wagner said that I loved...
He talked about why we do certain things and if we do them for the right reason. As part of an example he gave, he mentioned this...(and I wrote it down because I didn't want to forget, but somehow it got thrown away so I'll have to try to remember.) Do we as mothers resent the drudgery of laundry, mopping, diapers or do we see our divine roll as a blessing. He said more but I can't remember it now. I do remember how it made me feel though. It is a good change of perspective for those days when my work at home doesn't seem to end.
He also talked a lot about gossip and how we can't have unity if we gossip and share things about others that shouldn't be shared. He also said that it's up to us to forgive someone if they have done us wrong, even if we know we are in the right. It was just a great talk and I actually got to listen..our girls did well today. I only had to go out during the closing prayer with Hattie. The meeting did go long, so technically she made it through!

Sunday school was equally as good. Our stake theme this year is "Walk Together in Holiness." One of the counselors in our bishopric talked about the theme and broke it up and talked about each word. When he talked about "together" he talked about unity and used the 1984 USA Olympic Hockey team as an example. Then he asked about our uniform...if we were on a professional team, what would our uniform say on the front (the team name) and on the back (our last name). Then he asked what it would say for our "church team." There were several answers--like having the church's name on the front and our name on the back or the Savior's name on the back. It just made us think more about unity and whose team we are on.

In Relief Society, Karen taught about covenants we make and the blessings that come from them. I love the stories that she shared. Overall it was a great meeting and a spiritual recharge that I needed.

Tonight we had Brian's family over for dinner and we had Hawaiian haystacks and Laura made yummy apple pie. The kids had a blast playing together as always.

Just to make sure I get this written down...Ellie loves to sing the primary song "I Lived in Heaven." She sings it so cute...saying "I lived in Heaben...", then she says, "Then Heavenly Father presented a beautiful plant..." LOL. It's really cute.

Oh and today we watched Horton Hears a Who. I think we might have to buy that one--I really enjoyed it. It's such a cute, humorous movie.

Tagged

My mom "tagged" me. I think it's a sly way to get me to reveal just how weird I am. Or maybe we can see how different we all are but that we can all get along. Now everyone grab hands and join me in singing "Kumbaya." So here goes...

1. I put a small spoonful of peanut butter in my oatmeal every morning.
2. I'd much rather listen in a conversation than have to talk. Doesn't make it much of a conversation does it? I like to answer questions but have a hard time elaborating.
3. I love hospitals--love the food, the environment, etc. I told you this is revealing my weirdness. I'd love to be a nurse in my next life or to at least volunteer a lot at a hospital. I also love having babies--like the delivery part and hospital stay. I'd stay there a week if they'd let me. Good thing I have the reality of the terrible twos (and threes and fours+) to deal with or I'd have 15 kids.
4. Brian and I met 13 years ago.
5. I was so excited to get my driver's license and begged my dad to let me practice. He would let me drive in the neighborhood on the way to early morning seminary when I was a freshman. (Mom--don't be mad--it was a long time ago and really early in the morning so there was no traffic! LOL).
6. I can't look into some one's eyes very long without feeling like my eyes are going to go crazy. Weird.
7. I love to flip through magazines. We love date nights at Barnes & Noble so I can do that.
8. When I was little, I ran into the back of a parked truck when I was riding my bike.
9. I can't stand the crunching sound--like someone eating chips or celery or carrots or ice. (I think it's hereditary though--it drives my aunt Deb crazy, too.)
10. I am afraid of heights.
11. I love Disneyland.
12: I was a state and national baton twirling champion when I was younger.
13. I am a multi-tasker. I can't sit and just watch TV. I have to be doing something else. I have to be doing something all the time. (I think they have a label for that...ADHD?) For that reason, I don't like going to movies too much--unless it's something I'm really interested in seeing.
14. I love cookbooks and recipes. I love learning new things about cooking. But any recipe over like 4 or 5 ingredients turns me off. I need to get over that.
15: My weakness is Magic Shell. I LOVE that stuff even though it's not good for you. I can't resist it.
16: My feet are very ticklish.
17: I don't like mushrooms or olives.
18: I prefer dark chocolate over milk chocolate.
19: I love to look at and watch the ocean, but I'd rather not get in. Too scary!
20: One of my favorite things to do with my dad when I was about 16 or 17 was to go test drive cars. It gave me the chance to drive fun cars and practice driving a stick shift. (We have a story or two about scared car salesmen in the car with me!)
21: I started teaching college when I was 24.
22. I love the smell of men's cologne, although Brian doesn't wear it. (I'll still keep him!)
23. On that note, I LOVE his deodorant--Old Spice "Fresh". Yum. While he was on his mission, I would buy a "bottle" and put it in my car so I could remember his smell. Pathetic, yes.
24: I enjoy vacuuming and having vacuum lines in my carpet. It's about the only chore that isn't really a chore to me.
25: Sometimes I'll make brownies or cookies or a cake just so I can lick the bowl. Good thing there are only 25 spots or who knows what other weirdness I would reveal!

Now I am tagging Rachel, Leslie (that means you need to start a blog!), Terri (you, too!), Karolyn (need to update yours), Kari and anyone else who feels so inclined.

Thursday

I hate when I wait too long to post, then I get behind and I can't remember what I did. I know on Tuesday I swept, mopped and vacuumed. I watched bits and pieces of the Inauguration festivities. It was neat to be able to watch history being made and I just pray that he'll lead the country well. It was weird to hear about the collapsing of Ted Kennedy during the luncheon. That would have put a damper on things.

Wednesday Rachel and I ran, then I came home and we were pretty lazy in the morning. I am rambling because I can't remember what I did. We went outside a bunch. I loved the overcast day. I got my camera out and snapped a couple pictures of Ellie and Hattie.


Today I had one visiting teaching appointment, then we spent time at home until Eliza and Libby came home from school. We had soccer, too. HALLELUJAH....tonight was the last soccer practice of the season. I am thrilled!!!!!!!!!!! Libby just watched practice tonight. Stinker. But no more practices...one game that might have to miss for a birthday party, then it's over!! Yay!!

Brian came and took over at soccer and I went to my mom's to work on a project for a class I'll be teaching soon over at BPS. It was fun to actually create--it's been so long! My dad kept our energy levels up with Paradise Bakery and a couple of treats. Yum!

Singing Trio

This morning, I put on my iPod and went out for a nice run. No one could go when I needed to go, so I enjoyed a nice run by myself. I got home and Brian headed out to help with a service project, then he went straight into work to make some calls. My brother came at 8:30 and I watched his kids for a while we he did some work in his classroom. It was busy. Today was one of those days where I don't think I sat down once. We spent a lot of time outside this afternoon. Eliza got home around 4. She had a great time. She went on a bike ride with Grandpa, had bacon (and eggs and toast) for breakfast. She was really wanting bacon since she loves it so much. And she got to ride a horse. They ended up going to a stable since the lady my mother-in-law knew couldn't do it since her kids were sick. So they went to a place called Twin Acres and she got to ride a horse named Pretzel. She had a blast and loved it. They had In & Out for lunch, then she played with her cousin before coming home. She surely enjoyed her sleepover.

I had to include this video of my girls singing since Libby is actually singing in front of a camera. Who knows when she might do that again.

Catch Up

I need to catch up! On Friday, Brian went with Eliza to her student of the month assembly. She figured it was his time to go since I went last year.


Kari brought her girls over to play for a bit, then we met Leslie and Terri at the park for lunch and visiting while the kids played. I can't believe how warm it is. TOO warm for January!!! I picked up Eliza and Libby from school, then headed to my parents'. We loaded up and drove to Mesa. I needed to get some paper for a project I am working on, so they said they'd come along for the ride. I wasn't sure if Ellie would really go or not. On my way to get Eliza and Libby, she was crying, "I don't want to go to Mesa, I don't want to go to Mesa." I wondered why, then narrowed it down to that she would have to ride with my dad in the car! LOL. I tried to ease her concern, telling her she didn't have to look at him and that she could close her eyes. She was okay with that. When we got to his house, she waited in the car until I could carry her in. He was near the front door and said hi to her and was trying to show her that he was the same person and that has face was getting better. She eased up and looked at him and was fine after that. I got the paper that I needed--Eliza and Libby helped us shop, but my dad took Ellie and Hattie to a nearby park so they wouldn't break anything in the store. We got some dinner and headed home. When we got home, I felt like we had so much trash and crumbs in the car! It took lots of cleaning out and my dad had to go have it vacuumed yesterday.

Later that night I went to see Bride Wars with a few friends. It was a really cute movie. I was surprised that one scene was in there in a PG movie. I spent some time focusing on the chairs in front of me till it was over! I enjoyed the music in the movie, too.

On Saturday, I got up and went running/hiking. As I was pulling into the driveway after I was done, Brian had the girls loaded in the van and was getting ready to leave. I was like--where are you going? He said they were going to Danny's (his brother) to help shovel some rock and to let the girls play with their guinea pig. He said to enjoy a relaxing morning at home. I was pleasantly surprised! What a great guy. So I was able to work on a couple things I needed to get done and leisurely get ready before heading to Libby's soccer game at 12:30. She didn't play, but we got to bring the treat. She always loves that. Later that afternoon, I was able to take my cousin's engagement pictures. She waited for Phil while he was on his mission (sound familiar?). He got home a week and a half ago and they are already engaged and getting married in March! I am really excited for them. They are so cute. Here are some sneak peeks.




That night after the kids were in bed, we had an in-home date. Brian grabbed some Bajio for dinner, so we had that and just hung out. It was nice.

Church still seems early!! We made it though and the girls did really well. I enjoyed all the lessons. Eliza and I stayed for choir after, then we came home, had lunch, made a couple things to get ready for dinner, then headed out. We dropped Eliza off at Brian's parents' for her birthday sleepover. She is excited to go on a walk and ride a horse! One of Marilyn's friends has horses and she gets to go see them and hopefully ride one. After dropping her off, we went to my parents' for dinner. We got to see the Cardinal's win, which was awesome! We had dinner, visited, the kids played, etc. On the way home, we stopped at Curt and Patti's to drop of Jodi's CD.

Here's to a new week!

Trader Joes

This morning we hiked. Rachel can't go tomorrow, so we went today instead. After the regular morning routine, I put Hattie down and got ready. We did a couple errands. Target had a big shoe clearance, so we got a few. 9 pairs for 23.00. My girls are pretty hard on shoes, so I like when I can get them for way cheap. I was at Target and had spaced for a minute that I needed to pick E & L up from school for early release. Luckily I remembered in time and made it in time (barely). We had to go back to Target to check out (I had to leave my cart), then we came home and had lunch before going outside for a bit. Brian came home early today so I could have some much, much needed time to myself. I feel like I've been going and going and going, and have been running "E" lately.

First, I used my gift card from Christmas and got a pedicure. Then I leisurely walked around Target. I saw some cute home decor stuff--some really cute frames. Then I went back home so I could do some things there. Brian had left to take the girls to soccer practice. Tonight I guess Libby just watched and ran around with Brian. At least she didn't throw a fit like last week. After getting some things done here and eating dinner, I headed out. First I went to Trader Joe's. Yesterday my neighbor had brought out some cookies that she had gotten there--the Candy Cane Joe Joe's. They are like Oreos, but with a candy cane type filling and not made like the regular Oreos. I thought they were so good! But our conversation about Trader Joe's intrigued me since their food is healthier. I felt a little weird in there as I've never been in there and didn't know what to look for or where things were. I tried to fit in and look like I knew what I was doing, but I don't think I was too successful. The only thing I bought was a dark chocolate bar that Heather said was just great. I think I will go with her next time she goes so she can tell me what's good. Does anyone shop there much? If so, what is good to get? I need some advice!

From there I went to Borders and looked around a bit and then finished up at Wal-Mart to get treats for Libby's soccer game on Saturday. Brian said I came home too early, but I guess I am a home body. I like to go out, but I like to be home, too, I guess.

Zoo

Yesterday a friend came over so our kids could play together. Then I headed out on a couple of errands. Then it was the usual afternoon activities--naps, outside, dinner, etc.

This morning a few of us ran, then I hurried and got ready. I got to go with Eliza to her field trip to the zoo. My mother-in-law was kind enough to watch my girls. I only had Eliza and one other little girl in my group, so that was nice not to have to keep track of lots of kids. We got to just go on our own until lunch, then we ate together, then got to head back out until it was time to catch the bus. We got to see pretty much all the animals. We got to go to the new aquarium part of the zoo, too. It was neat to see the huge exhibits. There is a part where you can pet the sting rays, too. Eliza did, but I am too chicken, so I just watched. Overall, we had a great time. Unfortunately I left my camera at home. After school, we picked up Ellie and Hattie, then came home and played out front. My neighbor was out, so I got to visit with her while the kids played. When Brian got home, we came inside, had dinner, then he was off to mutual, so we hung out at home. I felt like a meanie all night--getting after my girls for not helping more or doing their chores. Then it was bedtime--three of the four did great. The other--unnamed suspect--didn't fall asleep until 9:50. Ugh. I am ready for a break!

Scary Face

We made it to church in time on Sunday morning. Brian got smart and brought a clock in our bathroom, so I could keep better track of the time. I usually spend most of the morning in the bathroom--between getting my hair done and then getting all the girls' hair done. Brian is in the other room, feeding breakfast and getting the girls dressed. We make a good team. In Sacrament meeting, the bishopric spoke about unity--it was good. The special musical number was all the women getting up and singing "As Sisters in Zion." It was really neat. And it was surprisingly quiet in the audience with all the moms gone. I love the strength of the women up there together and being part of it. Heather gave a great lesson in Sunday School about Christ. She told a really neat story about a bridge and it was a parable for how Heavenly Father could sacrifice his Son. There weren't too many dry eyes. I need to ask her for a copy of the story. It was my week to teach in Relief Society. The lesson was about the parables in Matthew 13. I only got through 3 of the 5--there were so many great comments, so I can't complain!

In the evening, we had my parents and brother and family over for dinner. We let Eliza choose for her birthday dinner--she picked BBQ. So we had hamburgers. I didn't plan too well (since in the past I always do way too much) and had minimal meat for everyone, but I think it worked out okay. It was fun to visit after.

Last night Rachel and I already decided we didn't want to get up and run this morning, so we decided to do it at night. So today I didn't have to get up as early as usual. But everyone got ready and off to school. Ellie and Hattie played dolls this morning. After I put Hattie down, I cleaned out the drawers in my bathroom. They were just a mess of brushes and hair clips and pony tails and ribbons and headbands. It looks WAY better now and everything has a home. I hope it stays like that for a while. I also cleaned out the linen closet in my bathroom. I purged and organized--it looks good and feels good to have that done! Now I need to do the cabinets in my family room. Ugh. After lunch we went to Terri's so I could burn some pictures onto CDs. For some reason my CD burner isn't working. :(

This afternoon after my girls got home from school, we had to stop by the Cox store to replace our TV remote, then we stopped by my parents' house. My dad had five suspicious spots removed on his face. Four were benign, but one ended up being a basal cell carcinoma. He said they got it all, so that is good. His incisions were really big! My mom is going to ask why they are so long. He is home resting and not supposed to do much for several days. That is not like my dad, so we'll see how well he obeys those orders. Libby and Ellie went in and really looked and examined his face. I was surprised Libby got as close as she did. Hattie couldn't have cared less--she acted like he looked the same. But Ellie--oh my--she was scared out of her mind. She went right into the toy room and didn't come out! One time my dad walked by on the way to the bathroom and he stuck his head in to say hi. Next thing you know, Ellie is screaming and running out to us. She said he looked like a monster. It was a little sad but pretty funny to us that she was so scared. When we left, she had me hold her and she buried her face in me and closed her eyes.

Tonight we went to Chik-Fil-A for dinner. The girls' school was having a fundraiser, so we supported it. It ended up not being a good choice because my run tonight was terrible. I think it's because we really haven't had fast food in forever and it just didn't settle well. From the start, I just had this heavy feeling. Not to mention I got really allergic to something and sneezed the entire way! I made it though, thank goodness.

7

Today is Eliza's 7th birthday. She had a great time on her sleepover. Today she got to go with my mom to a baby shower, then they saw Bedtime Stories. I guess Eliza was really worried because she heard two bad words in the movie. She heard the "s" word and the "b" word--"stupid" and "butt." Ha ha! I was relieved to hear that those were the "bad" words she heard--both of which aren't allowed at our house. On the way home, she got some Dippin' Dots.

Brian had a camp out with the young men last night combined with the young men/young women snow trip today, so he's been gone. He had a fun time except for a run-in with a tree that I guess was concealed by snow. He said it looked like a big snow ball, but I guess he should have investigated further before going head on into it. His side really, really hurts.

This morning, we got up and picked up my dad to go to Libby's soccer game. I was a little worried when we had her uniform on once at home and she took it off. But while we were at my parents', my mom got her to put it on without any issues. We went to her game and it was the same as every week before. My dad says that she just goes for the socializing and refreshment. So true!

We came home, played outside for a bit, vacuumed out the van and had lunch. I put Hattie down and tried to put Ellie down, but she didn't end up taking a nap. So she got up and she, Libby and I wrapped Eliza's gifts, made brownies for tomorrow and made a treat for my lesson tomorrow, too. They were good helpers. Tonight after Brian and Eliza both got home, Eliza wanted to open her gifts right away. She got a pair of jeans and she also got this shirt that she has really wanted--from Wal-Mart of all places. It is really cute and she was so surprised to get it. She wanted to get it last night with my parents as part of her gift from them, but they had to dissuade her from wanting it.

And we gave her a little printed coupon for a ticket to see Wicked when it comes here this summer since tickets aren't on sale yet.

Eliza wanted to have dinner at the park. So we hurried and made sandwiches and went to the park.

We had dinner and played a bit before coming home for their baths and Eliza's cake. She wanted an ice cream cake again, so this year it was strawberry cake and strawberry ice cream with Cool Whip frosting. She added some M&Ms on top, too.


Here are some things about Eliza at age 7:
loves art
loves writing stories
loves to sing
loves to dance
loves to be outside
loves to take pictures
is not too picky about her food
has a tender and sweet heart
also has a bit of a temper

We love Eliza and we are glad to have her in our family. Happy birthday, Eliza!!