Wishing you the best in 2011!

11 days and counting

2012-02-13T23:29:00.006-06:00

Sometimes you have to be really foolish to become wise. I foolishly thought because i am having constant contractions and am pretty much a handicapped person I could have my baby on Friday, but nope. 11 more days. i will admit there was lots of crying on friday but we are trying to regroup.

So in the meantime I guess we will celebrate four birthdays, my sister's wedding anniversary (they are coming to visit), ella's baptism, and our favorite holiday, V-day! Also, Kyle is celebrating the arrival of his bouncing baby kawasaki.

Trying to be grateful I'm not dead! And forgetting how much pink comes along with a baby girl. So fun!

kyle also brought me flowers and vacuumed the house. true love, i tell you.

things i want to remember

2012-02-06T02:02:00.005-06:00

February is the best month of the year. As we are getting ready for the new baby there are a few things I want to remember . . .

I want to remember the magic of watching my little family grow up and the privilege of watching them create, imagine, explore and play.

I want to remember how being settled is like tapping into a well of happiness. How even on days when all I accomplish are laundry and vacuuming I am smiling because we are content and this is home.

I want to remember how grateful I am for those promptings and instincts in your life that tell you to take an unexpected path: like moving to the middle of nowhere; like purchasing a home that wasn’t your ideal; like tackling something as crazy as homeschool.

I want to remember how it felt to watch my sweet husband take care of our three-year-old who had the flu. How Kyle made them both a bed on the floor and was so patient for hours on end. I tell you, that experience was up there on the list of moments I knew I married the right man.

February is the month of love. We love all of you and can’t wait for baby # 4 to join in all the fun.

bathroom remodels

2012-01-31T15:41:00.009-06:00

Here are the three bathrooms we remodeled. They aren't decorated yet but at least they are done. We kept the cabinets in the kids' bathroom but other than that new tubs, tile, fixtures, cabinets, countertops, electrical, toilets, etc. It was a lot of work but we are glad it is done. And one thing about remodeling in the country: it isn't always about finding your favorite things but just finding something in stock and available.

There is also a frog that lives under our house. It makes little noises at us all winter and finally he came up through a vent and Kate caught him. But because it was winter Kate and Kyle let it go back under the house so hopefully he can live until spring. A little weird but maybe a funny story to look back on nonetheless.

our front yard and a little snow

2012-01-22T22:10:00.001-06:00

sometimes it's just too much to stay indoors!

i guess it's time to sew a few things

2012-01-06T19:20:00.001-06:00

Ella is sewing her baptism dress and I can't find any nursery bedding I love. So it's time to sew. Well, really, it's time to learn how to sew and then it's time to sew.

Ella and the baby are going to share. Aqua and pink are the colors of the day. Hopefully in five or six weeks I will have something worth posting. Also, I am on the lookout for a really feminine, really cute name if you have any in your back pocket. I told my doctor to pay attention to all the babies he's delivering and find me a cute one.

Christmas Top 10

2011-12-26T16:15:00.004-06:00

Christmas Top 10

1. Waking up to an awesome sunrise!

2. Having all the kids on our bed telling us to GET UP!

3. Ella telling me, "What if, just what if, there's a real puppy under the tree!" One day I hope she gets her puppy. Sheesh.

4. Dash and his new train (Thanks, Gillespies! It was a favorite! Not to mention the kids loved their avent calendar)

5. Realizing no matter what angle you take the picture, you are still really round and pregnant!

6. Watching Lion King in 3D with the Petersen's and watching Kate give all their teenagers makeovers with her new beauty kit

7. Dinner with friends who treat you like family

8. Playing UNO with the kids and realizing our little people are growing up!

9. Putting the kids to bed early and watching The Mentalist with the hubby

10. Feeling much love and gratitude for the love of our Savior and family. Merry Christmas, everyone! We miss you very much!

Leavenworth Family Tradition

2011-12-26T14:03:00.006-06:00

Last year we moved to Washington over the holidays during a two week blizzard. DEPRESSING! So we ended up spending Christmas Eve in Leavenworth and it really lifted our spirits. This year we thought it would be a tradition worth repeating.

We spent Friday skiing as a family. I was lodge support. Next year I plan on joining them on the slopes but it was still fun to watch. Dash took one look at the skiers and said, "I want to do that." Ella said she was "shredding the DH" and Kate, our little nudist, couldn't quite get used to being all bundled up and opted to try again next week.

Then we drove to Leavenworth to spend the night. The kids call it the Christmas Village, and since every building is decorated like a lit-up gingerbread house it definitely has the holiday buzz. We met some friends for dinner and had a great time sledding in the town square.

Our hotel was super family friendly and had a Christmas tree in our room for the kids to decorate, as well as an awesome hot breakfast. I was thinking that although I love cooking and entertaining, it was so nice to just kick back and relax with no cleanup or hassle.

After a two-hour bath, the girls put on their robes and would not stop giggling. When Dash saw them he said, "You guys are wearing all the laundry!" (I guess I wash a lot of white towels at our house). Anyway, Merry Christmas, everyone!

Dash's B-day and Early Christmas Surprises

2011-12-26T13:24:00.006-06:00

Lately Dash has been insisting that I sit at the table with him when he eats his breakfast. It has turned out to be such a sweet blessing of motherhood. For 15 minutes we talk about what we're going to do during the day, wave hello to the train that goes by our house, and enjoy each other. Ella and Kate have usually eaten with Kyle by this time so it is just the two of us. During one of our morning chats, Dash turned to me and said, "Mom, you're in my club." Needless to say, I love this little guy and am so glad he is three!

My parents also drove up for a quick weekend celebration. We weren't able to go to Utah this year but having them here helped get us in the holiday spirit. My dad has a habit of buying our Christmas presents in July and then telling us about them in August, but this year he was determined to keep it a secret until December. It was worth the wait and a total home run! Besides spoiling the kids with surprises, they gave us a Springbar family tent and and sleeping bags for the kids! This has been on my secret want list for a long time and we can't wait to try it out!

In addition to some yummy food, going to see Sherlock Holmes II and some serious gingerbread building, we were so glad just to have them around! In kate's words, "YOU HAVE THE BEST PARENTS EVER!" Love you guys!

Through a different lens

2011-12-20T19:59:00.004-06:00

Ella loves to take pictures. Here are a few images of our world through her view.

Random

2011-12-12T17:43:00.004-06:00

Ella put on her helmet and goggles to start school this week. "Today I'm ready for anything." Not a bad attitude for a Monday.

happy halloween 2011

2011-11-02T10:30:00.018-05:00

Halloween was pretty much covered, thanks to Kelly Yeats and my parents. Check out all of Kelly's yummy food below. She had a haunted party complete with hayride. Then we drove to Utah to enjoy the Liechty festivities. Grandpa Dug was the joker and Grandma Anne and Grandma Janie had spooky surprises around every turn.

My personal favorite part was the cyclocross race on Saturday. Kyle and all the kids raced and had a great time. It is an amazing feeling to share something you love so much with your whole family. Of course I don't have pictures; sometimes it is nice just to enjoy the experience instead of worrying about photographing the event.

Then on the way home from Utah we stayed in a hotel. Someone came up and told me how well mannered my children were during breakfast. YES! I can die happy! Well, maybe not yet but the more of us there are the more of an accomplishment it is to have a nice peaceful meal together.

Anyway, hope you had a great halloween!

Where the wild things COME

2011-10-11T21:45:00.002-05:00

My wild children attract wild animals. Sometimes it is a little shocking to go outside and see them playing with a new friend. Sometimes it is a frog or cricket or lately a bird or rabbit.

A Tale of Puppy Love

2011-10-03T22:54:00.004-05:00

First bike jump

2011-10-01T18:18:00.005-05:00

Family time is the best. Especially on bikes! Kyle made the kids their first bike jump today and I'm not sure who loved it more, the kids or the dad.

Ella has upgraded to a bike with gears and brakes. Kate has upgraded to a 16 inch and may soon be ready to upgrade again. Dash is now on the stick together for long rides and the 12 incher at home.

Don't worry. I am going to get him a manly basket and spray paint his purple ride blue or red.

This is how we look most mornings when we go on a ride. We get a lot of looks from the country folk. Hopefully we inspire a biking movement so we can run into some more two wheelers in the middle of nowhere . . .

my little free spirit

2011-09-13T01:16:00.004-05:00

Source: lilybeanpaperie.typepad.com via Leigh on Pinterest

Ella's pre-school haircut

2011-08-29T23:48:00.002-05:00

We are getting ready to start school around here. The school room is almost organized. The curriculum is on its way. And Ella has a stylish new hairdo to start second grade.

Homeschooling is going to give our family the time and simplicity it needs to be more calm and more happy. I will post more on that later but I think this poster sums up what I hope to teach my kids.

even a beagle needs eye care

2011-08-25T18:49:00.002-05:00

This is Toby, one of the kids' playmates. His owners sent us this picture and we got a kick out of it . . .

Happy 10th Anniversary!

2011-08-16T12:00:00.004-05:00

Now that we live in the country, it was time to trade in the commuter for a truck! Kyle loves it and it was fun to go on our first vacation in it this weekend to Lake Roosevelt. Happy Anniversary, babe! Love you! Thanks for taking such great care of our family!

My new neighbors

2011-08-12T03:08:00.003-05:00

So we've traded in our river view for the country. My new house is in the middle of these pictures. Carrots on one side and wheat on the other. You would think they'd be relatively quiet neighbors but those farmers get up early (along with their tractors, trains, and planes . . . no joke.)

We have been working on the house for a month straight. I. am. Pooped. And so is Kyle. Sometimes I am like, "HOLY CRAP WHAT DID WE DO!" but then I try to dig deep and have some vision and patience. There was a reason we picked this place; sometimes it just takes a little work to make a house a home.

As for the kids, they love it. Lots of room to run around. Lots of frogs and trees and things to explore. Yesterday Kate put a grasshopper in my bed so "he could be cozy." Then he spit up on my new, clean white sheets. (Who knew they did that! Disgusting!) Anyway, I am sure I will have some good stories soon.

Best part: Kyle is only 3 minutes from work. That is our kind of commute.

Remodel Glimpse

2011-07-28T00:16:00.006-05:00

We aren't quite done, but here's a glimpse of before and after. Hopefully you can tell which ones are after.

PS Remodeling is a whole new monster when you live in the middle of nowhere. For example, I have driven 100 miles in every direction and can't find real-looking fake plants. So if anyone has a great online resource for those things please share :)

kate cut her hair, etc. etc.

2011-07-25T00:35:00.004-05:00

Kate is keeping me busy. Here is a recap of the last two weeks:

-Had to go to the ENT doctor to remove popcorn seed from her ear

-Cut her own hair off and now has a cute A line

-Stole a paint sample and decorated the front door of our new house

-Ruined my mother's day present, a sweet pair of ray bans, by chewing on them (what?!!)

-Stole the sugar bin and sprinkled "white fairy dust" all over the house

-Ruined my very ergonomic, very irreplaceable office chair. GRR.

I guess all I can say is Kate is not going to sit on the sidelines, she is going to really LIVE. Even with all her madness I love her and am glad she is mine. I am just hoping she channels some of that energy into sports or school or her pet frogs which is an entirely other post in itself . . .

kathy and clay

2011-07-24T23:06:00.004-05:00

Kathy and Clay are our friends from Bama. They came out to see Utah, eat a little Cafe Rio and go to the Stadium of Fire. I will have to say they are great company and we hope they come again! Thanks for being such easy house guests and helping with the kids! You guys are the best!

Grandma Janie's Carnival

2011-07-21T19:56:00.001-05:00

The video says it all. They kids always have a blast at grandma janie's summer party.

a few reasons why dash loves utah

2011-07-21T18:58:00.006-05:00

Dash loves Utah. Here are a few reasons why:

-He loves Shelby, Grandma Anne's golden-doodle

-He gets to sleep in Grandma Anne's bed, along with everyone else

-He gets to drink things he doesn't at home, like COKE

-He gets to fly his own airplane

-He gets to mow the lawn with Grandpa Dug

Every day he says, "Let's go home." To him, home is Utah.

My kids love mud

2011-07-21T18:36:00.003-05:00

Mud. It makes them so happy. It completes them. I feel like I haven't done my job as a mom unless sometime during the week they've had a chance to get really filthy. Yes, I do A LOT of laundry at my house.

LaRae Hawkins

2011-07-14T17:53:00.006-05:00

While we were visiting Utah my grandmother passed away.

I am the oldest granddaughter and have talked to her every week my entire life. I keep thinking about calling her but then have to stop myself because she's gone.

I'm grateful I had one last chance to tell her I love her and give her a hug. I am going to miss her so much but I am glad she is free and happy.

Downtime on the path

2011-06-04T13:59:00.005-05:00

parenting . . . sheesh

2011-05-29T23:45:00.009-05:00

So, sometimes it's a challenge keeping my little family on track. Do you ever feel like that? I am starting to understand why mother's love routine and why sunday's are so hard. It's a day that breaks from routine!

So tonight i mustered every bit of my craftiness (for those who know me I am great with ideas and I'll bring the snack but PLEASE don't ask me to craft) and made a poster for my kids to hang in our kitchen. No cricket. No stickers. Just some markers and me.

For the past week we've had a little dinnertime ritual where I call out questions and the kids answer them.

It goes something like this:

Today ...

Who brushed their hair?

Brushed their teeth?

Made their bed?

Was kind to their family?

Ate a vegetable?

Did their homework?

Practiced the piano?

Exercised or played ou

tside?
Talked respectfully to Mom and Dad?

Smiled at someone?

Giggled at something silly? (Which they then proceed to tell us what was silly)

Chose to have a good attitude about something?

Used their brain to solve a tricky problem?

Read a book?

Said their prayers?

Read their scriptures?

Learned a new place on the map?

Learned a new word?

It may seem like a lot of questions but it goes by quickly and the kids love raising their hand and telling us about their day.

And it helps me keep things moving in a positive direction with all the whining going on.

Anyway, I am so proud of my little craft that I had to share. The kids get to pepper it with stars and when we get to 1,000 we are going somewhere fun.

So, what are your parenting tips for raising happy, problem-solving, grateful kids? Love to hear them.

kit cat kate

2011-05-22T00:18:00.001-05:00

no, kate did not get a cat. but her friend did. and her friend is willing to share :). did a child ever love animals more?

Maui 2011

2011-05-16T02:08:00.013-05:00

Every now and then it's time for a LOVE trip.

Kyle and I decided it was time to celebrate graduating from optometry school (YEARS LATER), celebrate our 10th anniversary, and celebrate the opening of Gillespie Eye Care.

Maui was amazing. Grandma Anne was amazing (more pix of the home front soon). Vacations are amazing. It's amazing how much stuff you can do in one day with no kids in tow.

The Solomon's own their own optometry practice in Georgia. It was great to hang out with such awesome friends and we are already looking forward to the next gathering! (Maybe in Vermont!)

Pictures as follows:

1. The love of my life

2. Getting some sun

3. Posing in our robes

4. Room service! Coconut french toast. Yum!

5. Snorkeling in XXL kid's wetsuit. Can't. Breathe!

6. Eating out like iron chef america

7. Watching Kyle get washed away by the ocean

8. Watching Kyle pose for Hawaiian Tropic calendar

9. Freedom! Beauty! Vacation!

10. The beach in front of our hotel

11. Great times with great friends!

crazy about trains

2011-04-30T20:12:00.002-05:00

Does every little boy love trains? We ran into this little one today and had to ride it. Only $2 for 15 minutes. Dash was in HEAVEN.

Easter all week long

2011-04-28T19:10:00.004-05:00

Easter highlights:

Ella: "Mom, Kate gave me all her plastic eggs! All I had to give her was my chocolate!"

Kate: "Mom, let's play a game and tell each other how much we love each other. I'll go first."

Dash: Dumped all his eggs out and filled his basket up with rocks.

Brittney: Staying home with Dash from Church and having a peaceful Sunday for once. Also, Kelly's homemade chocolate eggs and the Hodges easter hunt!

Kyle: Bike ride from Quincy to East Wenatchee. Beautiful!

Grateful for all our blessings and the Resurrection. Here's to some spring fun and a lot more sunshine!

baby chicks

2011-04-19T00:21:00.001-05:00

it's amazing how happy a few chicks at ace hardware can make my kids

swim lessons

2011-04-08T23:07:00.002-05:00

Every night before bed we have a saying, "Out of all the fish in the sea" then the kids finish, "you're the fish for me!" Swim lessons rule.

white, soft grays, and the perfect color

2011-04-08T00:02:00.005-05:00

I can't help it. I love white. My next favorite is a tie between soft grays and light blues. And all of these colors are better with a dash of natural green.

There's something about these colors that make me feel calm and happy and like I'm by the water. I hang up something red and it ruins my zen. Just saying.

Thought I'd share this pretty kitchen. And living room. So happy.

more fun things to print

2011-04-04T21:43:00.001-05:00

the remodel is almost done. now we can start focusing on the details, or as i call them, the fun parts.

ella has glasses

2011-04-01T17:51:00.002-05:00

Kyle never had an eye exam before he went to optometry school. I was hoping Ella had his genes, but alas . . .

the men in my life

2011-04-01T17:40:00.002-05:00

A rambling post about motherhood

2011-03-28T01:15:00.002-05:00

I read something last week that said, "Bearing children is a faith-based work."

Jeez, I needed to hear that. Because sometimes it doesn't all make sense. I keep asking myself, How do I make my house more peaceful? How do I help my kids get along? How do I stop all the whining!?! Feel free to leave your brilliant answers.

Anyway, Ella, Kate and Dash are growing up! And there are so many things I need to teach them. It weighs on me. I think about their total education daily.

For example, I want to homeschool but can't quite get comfortable with it. Private schools in the area are out, and public schools have some real drawbacks. For example, sometimes I feel like our nation can't agree on a general moral standard. But how do you teach history or social sciences or any discipline that requires context and nuance if you can't agree on a few things that are right and wrong?

I want my kids to be excellent, and not because I care about ego or prestige but because I know they are capable of excellence. I wrote down these things about a year and half ago and they are the benchmarks I am using to make decisions.

Excellence
Discipline
Kindness
Humility
Integrity
Innovation
Delight / Joy

In addition, our family has some goals.

1) Enjoy our work

2) Experience nature / recreation

3) Live below our means

4) Live beautifully and simply

5) Cultivate health

6) Love passionately

7) Laugh often

8) Help others

9) Make a life

I look at this list often and it has been a compass for us as we have made some big decisions the last two years.

But part of being the mom and carefully thinking about these things is that you have to have time to implement them. I have to have time to study the things I want my kids to know; I have to have time to laugh at silly things and wrestle on the floor and not worry about deadlines and the clock so much. That is the rat race that adulthood brings and kids deserve their time in the innocent land of childhood.

So I have quit freelancing. I have been canceling projects and phasing out clients. And although it has taken me years to come to this point, I am finally there.

Although my brain is constantly racing with ideas and projects and creative energy, right now, I am devoting everything I have to the faith-based work of motherhood and infusing my home with joy and comfort and love for my family and those who walk in my door. Wish me luck because as many of you know it is not easy but hopefully will be worth it.

---------------------

Live the Hope of Eternal Life

Parents, teachers, and leaders: live in your homes, in your families, in your marriages so that youth will develop hope for eternal life from watching you. Live and teach with so much clarity that what you teach will cut through all the noise youth are hearing and so that it will pierce their hearts and touch them.

Live in your home so that you’re brilliant in the basics, so that you’re intentional about your roles and responsibilities in the family. Think in terms of precision not perfection. If you have your goals and you are precise in how you go about them in your homes, youth will learn from you. They will learn that you pray, study the scriptures together, have family home evening, make a priority of mealtimes, and speak respectfully of your marriage partner. Then from your example the rising generation will gain great hope.

To read the full article, click here: Teaching the Doctrine of the Family

Where the living is easy . . . .

2011-03-23T01:01:00.002-05:00

I was so tired today I almost put the kids to bed at 5:00 p.m., but I dug deep and took them outside to fly Grandma Anne's kites. I don't think the pictures do it justice. It turned into a perfect hour of childhood happiness.

Switching it up

2011-03-21T01:56:00.009-05:00

Some pix taken from my cell phone.

Sometimes I forget how much kids love dirt. At least my kids. They love it. They roll in it. The dirt completes them.

We miss Tahoe like crazy but this beach is in front of our house and pretty fun. It was only like 60 degrees but Kate had stripped down to her swimsuit within 15 minutes and they had a blast.

Yummy recipe

2011-03-18T10:55:00.005-05:00

Yummy salad dressing:

2 garlic cloves, chopped

1 Tbsp dijon mustard

1/2 cup rice wine vinegar

1/3 cup canola oil

3 Tbsp sugar

1 16 ounce can of pears

Blend until smooth. Adjust the sugar to desired sweetness.

Works perfectly with baby greens, sliced apples and pears, candied pecans and gorgonzola cheese . . .
Or strawberries, bacon and parmesan cheese.

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Funny kid happenings I need to record:

Kate: "Mom, sometimes when you're not around, I say bad words quietly under my breath. Sorry about that."

Kate: "The boy in my gymnastics class told me he loves me. His name is spider man. He calls me spider girl."

Kate: "Mom, I can't believe you are making us go to bed! Don't you love your children!??"

Ella: "When you tell a lie, there's a hole in your heart that gets bigger and bigger, until you tell the truth, and then the hole gets smaller and smaller."

Ella is being recognized in the school assembly today for being a star student with good behavior.

Dash: Insists on carrying his golf clubs everywhere. He has a real putter, driver, and wedge. Is out golfing in his pajamas as we speak. Yells, "Awesome!" when he has a good hit.

Happy B-day, Dug!

2011-03-02T21:34:00.004-06:00

My dad is the man! He works hard, plays hard, and is always up for a good time.

10. Speaks "cinema" fluently

9. Gives gifts months in advance (Christmas in July is fun!)

8. Still works and plays like he's 20

7. Always willing to lend a hand

6. Helped me grow up with confidence

5. Helped me learn to trust in the Lord

4. Taught me what was really important in life: PEOPLE

3. Eats at least 2 hamburgers a week, every week (Apollo is King)

2. Has a soft spot for troubled kids and animals

1. Makes his family, grandkids and everyone around him feel loved

Have a great day, Dug! Love you!

Why we love February

2011-03-01T01:53:00.005-06:00

Ella and Brit: Feb 18

Anne and Kate: Feb 20

I still think it is amazing I get to share this month with my favorite people.

Kate told her gymnastics class that she was turning 7 (she's 4). Ella told me she wanted to take her entire school class to olive garden. Dash decided it was a good week to start potty training. Good times!

Birthday fun all week long. If Ella looks tired it's because we weren't able to open the girls presents until late at night. We spent the weekend remodeling the office so the new toys doubled as a handy distraction for the kids while we worked. Before and after pix coming soon.

The grandmas all sent their fun presents, including a cute apron from Janie, which I hope to start using soon when I resume my cooking responsibilities for the family.

Also, after a long day I came home to a super surprise from my reno girls. Homemade orange rolls (DELICIOUS!) and a bundle of treasures that hit the spot. Ladies, you don't know how much your love and service keeps me smiling.

We are still basking in the glow of grandma anne's visit. I don't let my kids watch sponge bob so grandma anne bought them a sponge bob cake, cause that's just the kind of rebel she is. They loved it, or course. And I frankly didn't mind either cause they were happy as clams.

Kyle and I also booked our birthday/christmas/10th anniversary/optometry graduation/all-rolled-into-one trip and i must say even though it is weeks away it is all I can do not to pack tomorrow.

Anyway, must go fold laundry. Love you all!

mailers and business cards

2011-02-21T17:24:00.002-06:00

I can't help it. I love sending things to print.

puppy tales

2011-02-17T18:45:00.005-06:00

Ah, I guess it had to come to an end. Grandma and her puppy went home and we miss them already.

Talk about a party. We really needed some fun and Anne is a vacation on wheels. When you can't leave your responsibilities, the vacation comes to you.

My kids L.O.V.E. my mom. They won't leave her alone. They want her to feed them, bathe them, sleep with them . . . they even ask me to pretend I'm Grandma Anne.

When she left this morning, Ella was crying and said, "We've done this a million times and I still hate it!"

We know how she feels! But we are sooo glad she came and can't wait to see her again.

the river

2011-02-13T20:24:00.006-06:00

Good thing she is turning 4 next week! Not recommended for 3 year olds! That water is at least 40 degrees . . . brrr

My partner in crime

2011-02-11T17:46:00.006-06:00

Funny story. This week Katie came to me and said with raised eyebrows, "If you let me paint your nails and do your makeup, Daddy will kiss you."

So I let her paint my nails and do my makeup. I gave Kyle the heads up, so when he came home from work he came into where the kids and I were hanging out

"Brittney, who painted your nails! You look beautiful!" Then he laid one on me.

When I looked up Kate was glowing and she mouthed the words to me, "I told you so!"

Days like that make it all worth it. I love my little family.

grandma anne came with a puppy

2011-02-09T10:02:00.002-06:00

i don't know if there were ever kids who loved animals more.

Okay, so i temporarily lost my mind

2011-02-02T23:46:00.002-06:00

It's rare that I'll admit this but sometimes the impossible is just impossible.

Today I drove the kids into town to start prepping for next week's party. They were such a handful that I had a reality check. Maybe cooking all the food for next week's reception is a bad, very bad idea.

So many things could go wrong. Like this weekend, when Kyle detailed my car and less than an hour later Kate threw up all over it, over and over again until we got home.

Or the fact that Kate's babysitter turned around for one second and she had both hands in the bowl of cupcake batter, licking the chocolate to her heart's content.

So yeah, for the sake of our guests, our kids and our sanity, a local bakery will be providing food for Tuesday's event. Hurray!

The Biz

2011-02-01T18:33:00.003-06:00

I cleaned out this display case and the kids wanted in. If you catch me at the right time I may sell them for 20% off (the kids, not the case).

We have been busy but busy is good. Who knew working with the husband could be so fun!?! We should have gone into business together a long time ago.

I found a babysitter 2 times a week and that is helping a lot. Depression is its own little monster and sometimes it takes more than gratitude and a good attitude to fight it off.

Thank goodness for Courtney, Kelly and Karin. Phone calls do wonders to get you out of bed.

At work I have mainly been focused on the staff and getting a strong system in place so we can double our patient load. We also have some remodeling in the works, new signage, new software . . .

Also, we are hosting a reception for the retiring doctor on Tuesday for 100+ people (the chamber of commerce plus an open invite in the paper). Catering was outrageous so I am cooking all the food. Does anyone else think that is funny? One person minus 3 kids equals 1/4 of a person! Anyway, just trying to finalize the menu and prepare so it isn't stressful. I will post pictures on our cooking blog DivasWhoDish.blogspot.com when it is done.

Random January Update

2011-01-21T09:59:00.006-06:00

We have been playing a lot of hide-n-seek lately. A Lot. It is amazing how many hiding places there are in our tiny house.

Ella, Kate and Dash have a new cousin! Her name is shelby. Every day, and I mean every single day, Ella asks me for a dog and Kate asks me for a puppy. For now they have to live vicariously through Grandma Anne's pets.

I wish I could capture how beautiful the river is. I want to swim across and back this summer so I have been training at the local pool. I love swimming. I can't wait to become a great swimmer.

And my sweet little first grader. We have to leave for school at 7:30 but she gets up early and is ready to go. I am grateful to have such a friendly, adaptable kid. I have also been really happy with her school. It is only kindergarten and first grade. I like that they keep the little kids separate from the older ones.

bottle feeding cows

2011-01-21T08:46:00.005-06:00

Our friends have 20 cows and invited us over to feed the baby calves with a bottle. As you can imagine they were thrilled. We rode four wheelers and Kate rolled in the "mud." They also had a dog named Katie, which Kate loved as well. There's something about the outdoors, animals, and lots of dirt that makes kids about as happy as they will ever be.

The new LDS.org

2011-01-09T23:41:00.003-06:00

The new LDS.org is awesome. I especially thought this link was simple and informative for someone wondering about the basics of how the church is organized, etc. I think I even learned something new.

http://lds.org/church/facts?lang=eng

Ella's Fabulous Fashions

2011-01-02T23:50:00.004-06:00

Ella has been dreaming up a company since we lived in Alabama. Ella's Fabulous Fashions.

"We will have beautiful clothes for young people and old people, small people and big people. Everyone will be welcome in my store." --Ella

Both of her grandmothers are crazy seamstresses. Hopefully she inherited their genes because the sewing games are about to begin.

Walking the tightrope

2011-01-01T02:16:00.010-06:00

Moselle.co made this and I loved it. If the girl were blond I would buy ten of them.

Kind of feel like we've been walking a tightrope lately. Trying to stay focused on goals and not freak out at all the changes.

A friend reminded me it takes about 3 months after a move to start feeling comfortable. Looking back at Bama and Reno I would have to agree.

Anyway, took some pictures of the new stomping grounds. The first is our view as we run/bike up the canyon. Come summer I am going to swim across and back that dang river.

The second is a picture of our townhouse under the cliffs. Thank goodness the month-long blizzard is over and the snow is melting.

Leavenworth

2010-12-25T21:33:00.002-06:00

Leavenworth is about an hour from Quincy. It's a swiss village with a serious christmas market. Helped get us in the christmas spirit.

Silly but fun!!!

2010-12-22T01:38:00.000-06:00

Washington

2010-12-18T23:10:00.003-06:00

To share or not to share...

The random info first.

-The kids like drinking out of the fancy margarita glasses, compliments of the furnished house. No margaritas of course.

-There's a train that traverses the mountain across from our home that we watch from the balcony.

-Dash loves having a room to himself and so do we.

-We've been locked out of the house twice. No neighbors or cell service. Had to trek down to the HOA in PJs with the kids to scrounge up a key.

-The kids went to the beach and dug for clams and now trade them like coins.

-Kate and Ella love going to the hot tub while it's snowing.

-I felt like I was in the testing center at the pharmacy: new phone numbers, new addresses, new insurances . . . at least birthdays are the same.

-We all have head colds that are pretty miserable.

Overall, I am depressed. Got a Christmas card from a good friend in Alabama. Made me miss my friends all over the country. Miss my sister having her baby this week. Miss my girls in Reno. Miss Gina and Todd and their cute kids.

I am overwhelmed with Ella's school. I was fully planning on homeschooling, but right now, we see and know no one. We have no neighbors. Any school co-op is going to be 45 minutes away. I think I may send her to first grade but I am bugged about it. I just can't get my stuff in order to do it myself right now.

I haven't exercised since we got here. It's freezing and harder to get motivated. I think I am going to have to sign up for another race or something so I have a goal to work towards. Plus endorphins make you happy. I need some endorphins.

On the happy note, we met Kyle's staff. They are lovely and we are lucky to have them. Kyle has been working like a mad man and we can't wait for Jan. 3. I'll try and get some pictures up soon.

Website Launch

2010-12-15T16:37:00.003-06:00

GillespieEyeCare.com

santa came early this year

2010-12-04T23:23:00.008-06:00

cousins and buddies. t-hammer and dash-man.

Dash loves his cars! Which is just fine by Grandpa Dug!

Santa came to Thanksgiving Dinner. Even laid up with a pick line and serious infection, Grandma Anne still delivers.

Ella asked for a puppy and Kate asked for a kitty. Oh dear.

And because Katie-Kate couldn't resist, neither could I!

Swim lessons

2010-12-03T08:41:00.003-06:00

How do you cope with moving away from somewhere you love?

Swim lessons!

I haven't really wanted to run after the marathon. So I am getting a head start on my 2011 resolution. Early morning swim instruction every day until we move out. 7 more days of bliss.

The marathon has made me rethink an ironman. If you are sick of running after a marathon, will you want to do anything after an ironman? Maybe the shorter events are the way to go . . .

Mesquite Marathon 26.2 miles

2010-11-21T23:14:00.004-06:00

We came, we ran, we conquered! Mesquite delivered gale-force headwinds and miles of hills but overall a great time!

Best support crew ever! They introduced me to Icy Hot. Why have I never used the stuff? Amazing!

I never hit "the wall" but at about mile 23 I felt that if I didn't eat that second I was going to die. Hurray for granola bars and Mark, who jumped in to run the last 3 miles with me. Total time was 4:39.

Best part of the day was the hot tub! Then we got up at 4:00 a.m., drove to vegas and flew home. I tried to go to church and lasted about 10 minutes. Kyle drove me home and let me sleep. What a great hubby. Next time he is coming with me.

Anyway, here's to another awesome day of being alive and 30!!!

Too much love

2010-11-17T23:28:00.006-06:00

So many thoughts and so much to be thankful for.

I am focusing on the thankful part because it helps snuff out the sad parts.

Sad because it has to end. Because I have to leave people that are amazing, again. It is getting really old. If I think about it too much I start throwing things. And crying. And lying in bed all day. So I don't think about it that much.

But today, it is overwhelming me. There are people who have known me my whole life who don't get me like these girls. It sucks I have to leave them.

But instead of being really, horribly sad, I am trying to be really, incredibly grateful. Grateful that I've gotten to know so many shining, brilliant people. Wishing I could show you pictures of all of them and their incredible talents and their incredible goodness.

So back to my story.

I am running a marathon this Saturday and am a little anxious. I have ran a handful of 20-ish milers all pain free, but these last two weeks, when I am simply doing dishes or hanging with the kids my knee has been hurting the wrong kind of hurt. Could it be the weather? An injury? Who knows. All I know is there have been lots of swear words going though my mind this week but I'm trying not to let them out because I need the blessings.

Kyle tried to talk me out of running it. I told him he was Satan and to stop tempting me.

Then I dreamed I was at the marathon. The buses weren't working so I had to hitch hike to the starting line. Then I ran the whole thing but couldn't remember a lot of it so they made me run it again. Can you say nightmare?

My clean laundry is piling up. My husband has sold our washer and dryer, couches, mattress, and piano on craigslist, there are lots of decisions to make about schools and business and whatever, all of my crap is in boxes and in general I am overwhelmed with Christmas and everything that is about to hit the fan.

So with all of this on my mind, a friend sends me a sweet text. Then another drops off some crazy double chocolate drink and makes me laugh. Then another tells me to get my butt over to her house because they are throwing me a surprise marathon party and where the heck am I?

Anyway, this is me feeling very blessed, happy, loved and ready for whatever is going to come this weekend. Sometimes I think I shouldn't have trained for the dang race, I should have just ran it. But I didn't, so let's hope it all goes off smoothly. After all, I have the best support team in the world and 800 IBUs a plenty.

when kate grows up . . .

2010-11-09T21:58:00.004-06:00

Kate told me tonight that when she grows up she wants to be a face painting artist. "I will paint anything you want on your face . . . a tiger, a unicorn, a butterfly . . . " I don't think she's kidding either.

thoughtful little dash . . .

2010-11-09T18:53:00.005-06:00

Dash is talking up a storm. He can repeat almost any word you give him. He loves his little bike and he wakes up every night and says from his crib, "Mom! Out! Help! Go!" to try and get us to put him in bed with us. He loves to play puppy (surprise!) and anything with wheels or balls.

My favorite picture. I love my little writers.

preview

2010-11-03T15:00:00.008-05:00

i'm not sending out christmas cards but if i were . . .

our new digs

2010-10-21T23:02:00.004-05:00

We've secured temporary housing in washington, about 10 minutes from kyle's work. Here are some pix. Complete with two golf courses, 5 pools, hot tubs, softball field, gym, and the columbia river. It's a vacation community for people coming over from seattle. The gorge is about 40 minutes away if you like concerts. Plan your visit now. Booking from January to July.

The Marathon Begins . . .

2010-10-15T01:16:00.002-05:00

Where to start? Kyle turned in his notice at work. We are buying a practice in Washington State and there is a lot to do in the next two months.

Wrap up loose ends in Reno
Find good schools in new state
Find nice house in new state
Find renters to replace current lease
Move all of our junk
Begin prepping for takeover of new business

Frankly, I’m still not over leaving my friends in Bama so my coping strategy this time around borders somewhere between avoidance and denial. Suffice it to say I love my people and don’t like to leave them.

On the other hand, I am so excited for Kyle to find the opportunity he is looking for. We moved to Demopolis to buy a practice and when it was clear that wasn’t going to work out Kyle began searching for the right thing.

It is an interesting feeling looking at a map of the country and saying, “Okay, where do we want to build a life.” I always thought I would raise my family in Utah, but with limited options there we have expanded our vision.

Our qualifications were 1. Live somewhere that inspires us. 2. Live somewhere we can make a good living and not struggle. 3. Live within striking distance of family.

I hope Washington proves to be all of those things. From my limited experience there it seems like recreation heaven with access to lots of new adventures.

Moving sucks, and that’s that. But when asked to trade the people we’ve met and the experiences we’ve had . . . I choose the people and experiences every time.

I feel like our time here in Nevada has been a gift. Tahoe’s blue water is spiritual. And the people in Reno have been amazing. I don’t know . . . some things change you and you are never the same.

So . . . that’s the Gillespie update. And because we have some dead space in the next month where we have a lot of waiting to do I think I am going to run a marathon. It just seems fitting. After all, thirties are the new twenties, right?

Anyway, miss all of you, wherever you are.

b

Random update

2010-10-15T00:13:00.004-05:00

I was super busy with work for a few days there and didn’t have time to help kate clean her room. This is her fishing out everything that accumulated under her bed in that short time. Sort of reminded me of my dad working under a car . . .

The salmon spawning at Tahoe. Awesome.

To hell in a handbasket

2010-10-07T00:59:00.002-05:00

What do you do when you get cancer, have a mid-life crisis and feel like your world is falling apart? Have a halloween party like no other. I thought the invitation was delightful enough to share. My uncle C and auntie H know how to roll with it. Love you guys! Wish I could be there.

Oh my little Kate

2010-10-01T23:53:00.007-05:00

Oh, kate.

On Tuesday, why did my living room smell like a deli? She took the mustard out of the fridge and painted on the wood floor with it and then took bath towels and wiped it up and put them behind the couch. The world is her canvas and my fridge is her medium.

Today was family pictures. Twenty minutes before it's time to go, Kate decided her beautiful hair would look much better slicked down with conditioner. Fancier, she thought. Long live Kyle and his handywork with a blowdryer.

But for all our her makeup heisting, wall coloring, dress.up-wearing, kate is a lot of fun and knows how to live large. And she knows how to love large, too. We love our Katie, kate.

running

2010-09-18T21:07:00.001-05:00

Courtney is the girl right next to me. We are training for a marathon. Actually she is training for it and I am her trainer/support team. All the excercize without any of the pressure. Awesome.

Today we ran 17 miles and it was pain free. I think I could have easily made it 20 but I am trying to not push myself and build strength. Considering knee problems of the past I feel like this is a blessing in my life right now. Years of base miles later I am ready to run.

Very grateful for Kyle's strawberry jam sandwich at mile 12. I hit a wall of hunger that makes me think next time I better take breakfast a little more seriously.

I would like to be able to run 30 miles or some kind of ultra. We will see how that goes. One of these days I may ride a mountain bike again. After all, it is my first love and definately more fun.

halloween preview

2010-09-16T18:20:00.004-05:00

First day of preschool for kate and first day of halloween for the rest of us. It's a month long celebration culminating at anne and dug's haunted house in october. Who doesn't love a chance to dress up?

Mt Rose

2010-09-12T23:05:00.005-05:00

5 miles with 5 kids at 8000 feet up mt. rose to the waterfall = exhasting. But we did it. Lake Tahoe was beautiful as ever, and Ella passed the time by learning about survival. (We are going to buy her a pocket knife this week.)

Ella packed her own backpack. She brought Tina, her stuffed puppy, her blanket, sunglasses, a pear, a pop tart, paper and pencil in case she needed to draw a map. It is fun to see how her mind works.

Then there is kate. We now tell people we have "2 kids and a kate." She has been quite a handful lately. This is her new hair cut. All the layers are her own.

Dash is a man's man

2010-09-08T23:33:00.003-05:00

Nevermind the fact he likes to push my mom's cat around in a pink stroller.

ella's long awaited day . . .

2010-09-08T23:19:00.003-05:00

Dash had the flu. Then ella had the flu. But all was forgotten when ella lost her tooth. Hurray! She was much happier than she looked in the picture. P.S. what is with the wind in this town?

Girls night out

2010-09-07T00:38:00.001-05:00

A couple of us went to get our nails done and watched this shortly after. SO FUNNY. Will definately give you a laugh . . .

Pretty things

2010-08-31T23:24:00.002-05:00

I want to make a few of these flag pennants. They are so pretty. They make me happy just looking at them.

free range kids

2010-08-30T10:15:00.002-05:00

I am excited about this book. Just thought i would post in case any of you are interested in reading a book about raising self-reliant, smart and resilient kids . . .

Nine years are king!

2010-08-17T18:56:00.007-05:00

Happy 9th Anniversary to us. Yeah! And to celebrate, we bought 18 extra inches of bed. It is already changing our lives.

Kyle is a sweetie. He surprised me with roses and dinner. We are also headed to Washington this weekend so the anniversary continues . . .

So what have we done in the last nine years? A few fun facts:

-2 bachelor degrees and a doctorate
-2 houses, including a major remodel
-4 cities, 3 states
-3 children
-a lot of adventures

Things have been busy around here. I told a friend I would help her train for a marathon in October. I ran 12 miles saturday and wasn't sore. That's a good sign.

(Did I mention my new running partner went to culinary school and swam in college? So I quiz her on cooking techniques and now get free swim lessons.)

Anyway, i should have some good posts soon. A few major things in the works and a lot of moving parts. Whenver I get stressed, i say out loud: "I don't have problems. People with cancer have problems!" Or, something like that. Just feeling really lucky to have such a great family who makes life so full and worth living.

trendy or not

2010-08-03T03:02:00.005-05:00

Are you like me? Sometimes when I hear everyone talking about something I tend to shy away. After all, the harry potter books can't be that good, right? (but of course, they were).

Well, Nie Nie is one of those things. Something that I had heard people talk about but never quite got around to reading. Until lately.

Now I peak in randomly to see how the survivor of this plane crash lives her life. Nothing like a midnight devotional right from the comfort of my own computer.

She inspires me. She makes me remember that it is not enough to go through the motions but to really savor all of our blessings, to hug our children tighter, to find more joy in every single thing we do.

ella started first grade

2010-07-16T12:29:00.003-05:00

Our conversation on the way to school:

What do you do if you're scared? "Be brave and push through."

What is someone in your class is lonely? "I will ask them if they want to be friends."

What if your teacher asks you a question? "I use respect and say yes ma'am."

What if someone tries to touch your private parts? "I scream and run away."

Sheesh. I don't like this whole sending them out into the world business . . .

Tahoe is perfect in all ways

2010-07-11T02:06:00.006-05:00

There is something really magical about Tahoe. I can't get over it. I love it up there and want to spend every weekend exploring. If you need some happiness in your life come and visit. The blue water will heal you.

This is some of our Reno possee. I love these girls and their beautiful kids.

Today we had the husbands with us, which is a special treat. It's amazing how 5 extra adults can make the beach that much better.

Also, Camille, Kelly and I swam to the bouy today. It's sort of a right of passage. The water is 50 degrees but you can see strait to the bottom even when it gets really deep. I am thinking I am going to really like triathlons. One of these days . . .

utah is awesome

2010-07-07T22:14:00.010-05:00

pirate party at janie's house

grandpa roger and horse rides

buying loot with pirate treasure

cute dash and lots of biking

digging for treasure in the sand

date with grandpa dug to karate kid in his awesome truck.

bubbles bubbles everywhere . . .

Remembrance

2010-07-05T02:43:00.008-05:00

This July has special meaning for my family. My brother Kirk was honorably discharged from the Marines after 4 years of service and two tours in Iraq. At Church today my dad shared an experience that is maybe too personal to put on a blog but I figured we all need a happy story once in a while, right? And I want to remember it so here goes.

Before Kirk left on his first tour to Iraq, my dad gave him a priesthood blessing. For those of you who aren't familiar with this, it is sort of like an inspired prayer, given by a Melchizedek Priesthood holder, to one who is sick or otherwise in need of special counsel, comfort, or healing.

Anyway, before Kirk left my dad gave him a blessing and the Spirit testified to him that my brother would be alright and would returned unharmed. This gave my dad great comfort and allowed him to reassure my mom while Kirk was away.

Before Kirk's second tour to Iraq, my dad gave him another priesthood blessing. This time, although he had words of counsel for Kirk, he did not feel the same reassurance and peace that Kirk would return unharmed. He said as a father it was very hard for him to send his son away without that reassurance.

While Kirk was away, my dad said he relied on his faith to give him peace, that whatever happened was meant to be and part of God's plan. You could tell that this took effort on his part and I believe my dad grew from this experience and his faith was strengthened.

Needless to say we are so glad that Kirk returning safely to us was part of His plan.

The below picture was taken before Kirk left to the Marines and represents a tender moment between my dad and brother.

I titled this post remembrance because I hope to always remember the often silent sacrifices so many have made to let freedom ring.

Ella's Cupboard

2010-06-24T15:58:00.004-05:00

Awhile ago Ella brought me a magazine and said, "Mom, have you seen this? There are beautiful things in here. I want to live where these people live."

Well, today I opened my kitchen cupboard and it seems Ella has made herself a secret home. Everything was just so. Kate has a cupboard right next to Ella's but they told me it isn't quite finished. Maybe they can help me decorate my house one of these days.

Weekend at Tahoe

2010-06-13T17:38:00.028-05:00

Kyle biked up mt. rose highway and met us on the other side.

Sisters forever at king's beach.

Bike ride at Tahoe City. Lots of bluejays and squirrels.

Ella tasted tree sap for the first time. All in a day's work for a scientist.

The beach at sand harbor. Breathtaking.

The entire weekend I was thinking of a story in the Book of Mormon where Korihor keeps asking for a sign that God lives. This is how the prophet Alma answers him:

“Thou hast had signs enough; will ye tempt your God? Will ye say, Show unto me a sign, when ye have the testimony of all these thy brethren, and also all the holy prophets? The scriptures are laid before thee, yea, and all things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all things that are upon the face of it, yea, and its motion, yea, and also all the planets which move in their regular form do witness that there is a supreme creator."

Anyway, that's what I've been thinking about. How everything around us is trying to send us a message if we would just tune in.

Beautiful places tell me that God loves us and will answer our prayers. I already believed that but was grateful for the reminder . . . .

kate has been on one

2010-06-09T02:17:00.014-05:00

All in one breath -- "Mom, I have an idea. We need to go to Target. We need to get a sleeping bag. We need to go to Tahoe." (Then Ella chimes in with, yeah, we can sleep in the van! Looks like the G's are going camping this weekend.)

Kate, I'm not giving you your treat until you say sorry. Are you sorry? "I'm sorry I'm not getting my treat . . . "

Kate, I'm going to the store. Do you want pullups or diapers (for night)? "PANTIES!"

"Are we going to race in the mountains today?" Not today. "Well, what day are we going to race?"

Kate, you need to stop screaming and use your words. "Some toddlers don't use their words." Well, obviously you can so do it.

"Mom, this show doesn't use bad words. There are no stupids or uglies in it."

white creek trail

2010-06-06T23:46:00.004-05:00

Kyle picked me up from church today and told me he wanted to go somewhere beautiful. The white creek trail is about 12 minutes from our house and gave me a chance to stretch after a long weekend. Not sore and just a little tired.

We are looking a little rough and aren't in coordinating outfits but a family pix is a family pix, right?

Reni, maybe you could take our family picture on the 4th of july for real?

A worthy investment

2010-06-06T23:39:00.005-05:00

A spontaneous moment that was too cute to pass up.

Tahoe Odyssey

2010-06-05T20:24:00.009-05:00

So we were short a runner and had to pick up a couple of extra legs but overall great times at the Tahoe-Reno Odyssey. 178 miles later, you can't beat the scenery or people.

I had the best support team in the world. What cuties. I love my kids.
Kate woke up on race day, put on her tennis shoes and ballet outfit and said, "Okay, mom, I'm ready for your race." She is an animal herself and I bet you've never seen a 3 year old run hills like katie kate.

Seriously, the views on this course were amazing.

Kyle took the kids to "the pond" after they stopped by to say hi. (Lake Tahoe).

FYI: if you are in the market for a new headlamp the blackdiamond sprinter is the coolest headlamp in the world.

Favorite part: My midnight run up to daggett pass.

Least favorite part: Driving a teammate to the ER after the last lap. Don't worry. After a couple IVs she's feeling much better.

Anyway, i am looking foward to riding my bike a little now. Here's to a summer of mountain trails and fun.

Katie Kate and creek park

2010-06-02T20:08:00.002-05:00

Summer vacation is here

2010-06-02T00:59:00.009-05:00

It is a dangerous thing to go to the bookstore on the first day of the month, when my cash budget is overflowing and the books are calling. Two hours later, Ella and I had some great finds:

We got this one for Katie-Kate. On her to-do list today she had me write "get kitten." This book was the best I could do and is soooooooooo cute.

Doesn't everyone love Fancy Nancy? My girls think she is divine. And for $3.99 I think she is pretty divine, too.

This book is beautiful but a little tricky to read outloud if you are a crybaby like me.

And to top it all off Ella picked out her first journal. It is our summer homework in disguise, but please don't tell her that. You will get a kick out of the entries she has planned for the future.

I love my little family. Today all the sweeping and laundry and everyday chores were definately worth it.

Recording the little things . . .

2010-05-30T22:34:00.002-05:00

Ella
38 pounds, 25th percentile
Graduated from kindergarten
Loves books about gems, volcanoes and dragons
Makes friends easily and is kind to others
Loves dress up and dresses up often!
Looks forward to Thursday night (gymnastics and survivor)
Acts as my trainer. Bikes the loop while I run.
Does her piano lessons without fighting
Loves How to Train Your Dragon
Is my special helper and big girl

Ella is still a little boy crazy. I don’t think this is going to change so we say things like, “Well, you can’t help how you feel but you can help what you do.”

“Mom, I know he likes me. He gave me the look.” What look? “Mom, you know the look.”

“If someone doesn’t get their spelling medal, I will give them my spelling medal so they don’t feel bad.”

(During the carpool) Ella: “Mom, you would be proud. I have been trying not to chase boys on the playground.” Carpool friend: “Well, you can chase me if you want.”

(During the carpool) There were only two suckers so Ella said the other kids could have them. “I’m a food expert and candy makes your brain feel lousy.”

(Ella’s crush) “When is Ella going to get here?” In a few minutes. “I wish it were a few seconds.”

Kate
33 pounds, 50th percentile

Takes gymnastics twice a week and and asks every day, “Do I get to see Ms. Gloria today?” They call her the powerhouse. If the other kids aren’t paying attention she cuts in line because she means business. Ella and I just watch from the window and shake our heads.

Last week at a birthday party, they asked the little kids if they wanted to jump into the pit. Other little kids would be scared but without thinking Kate did a front flip into the foam cubes. When asked if she was scared, “No, that was awesome!”

Lost her training wheels this week. Rides the 3 mile loop around our house no problem. Likes to race the other kids and always, always wears a ballet outfit.

Watched the musical Annie and now thinks she’s a scrappy little orphan.

Likes to give the thumbs up, blow kisses and tell me “I’m the best mom in the world.”

After hearing Ella talk about her friend Jake, “I want a Jake too.”

Loves to play puppy, kitty, and dragon.

Does NOT like Dash in her room.

Loves to shake it and dance it up with her friends.

“I want to grow up and race like daddy.” You can’t race with training wheels. “Take them off right now. I know I can do it.”

She loves my neighbor Kelly. “Mom, you make the best dinners. And Ms. Kelly.”

Wakes up the earliest in the family and runs around like a T-Rex until the rest of us are awake, too.

Does not like to wear a diaper to bed. Gets up in the middle of night, takes her PJs off, changes into panties and her ballet outfit.

Dash
23 pounds, 10th percentile

Wakes up and spends a good ten minutes snuggling with me every morning.

Likes to sing “wheels on the bus” and “itsy-bitsy spider”.

Likes to point to his nose, ears, eyes and belly button.

Loves peek-a-boo and chasing his sisters around the house.

Loves to drag my pots and pans out of the cupboard and play with them.

Drives his car around the house saying “vrooooooooooooooom” for hours.

Likes to point sticks and guns and other boy toys and say, “bang, bang, bang!”

Loves to wave and say “Hey” or “Hello”.

Uses the broom handle to turn on lights and push the water dispenser in the fridge.

Hardly ever cries and brings lots of love into our home.

Hanging out

2010-05-30T21:07:00.006-05:00

Happy B-day, Kyle!

2010-05-24T23:29:00.008-05:00

Kyle and I made a 30th birthday escape this weekend to California. No kids, no plans . . . HEAVEN. We went to the movies, slept in, biked/ran a huge gorge by the American river, ate at yummy restaurants, golfed 18 holes at Dark Horse, checked out the confluence . . . hiked some more . . . sat by the river and threw rocks and talked about life . . . . Even though Kyle didn't want to come home, i told him he would miss the kids and he finally agreed.

This sign was on the outside of our hotel. California means business when it comes to consumer labels.

The dark horse golf course. Rated top 10 in california.

Beautiful american river.

Thanks to my mom for watching the kids. Not having to worry about the little squirts made the mini-vacation that much better.

Love you, Kyle. Remember, 30s are the new 20s!

Three things . . .

2010-04-26T23:14:00.002-05:00

I have a solution to the world's problems. It's called, 'Three things."

Every night before my kids go to bed I tell them three reasons why I love them. Ella thought I would run out of reasons, but I have proved her wrong. Now every night she waits with wide eyes and says, "Mom, don't forget my three things!"

I always want my kids to know I love them. I always want my family and friends to know I love them. I may just start dishing out three things randomly, so just know you've been warned.

All we have are moments. Let's make the best of them!

Man down! (Or mom, that is!)

2010-04-25T16:39:00.006-05:00

So something is really wrong with my neck/back and I've been down for 3 days. Can't move. Have to lie still. You know, so convenient with the kids.

So what does a girl do? I read 500 pages. Mourned over a friend's loss. Talked to a bunch of friends on the phone. I'm ready to get better now.

Kyle has pretty much been the greatest this weekend. Though I did get a kick out of him saying things like, "I'm just frustrated. I'm trying to do something but the kids . . . " Welcome to motherhood, Dad!

I thought it was funny that I read the Help when i could've really used a maid myself this week . . . that said, this book is AMAZING--literature at its best.

Some people don't like fiction because its not "real." but the best literature distills life down into truth so potent you can't help but see things more clearly.

Here's a pix of my Help taking a well-deserved nap. Love you, babe!

Roseville, California

2010-04-19T18:06:00.003-05:00

Roseville, California, was a blast. But besides awesome girls and amazing shopping, the best part of the day happened at home.

Kyle watched the kids all day, took them hiking, cleaned the garage and even did the grocery shopping! Ella told me "Dad let me wear my supergirl outfit to the store!" They were in bed when I came home, bathed and ready for church in the morning. What a sweetie. Props to kyle for being such a rocking guy.