Life is a bowl of Cherries!

Happy BDay Amayabelle!

2009-11-10T21:39:00.000-08:00

Oh Bells!

Four years old, going on 20! You have had wisdom beyond your years since birth, my dear child. There is something so fascinating about hearing the world through you because it is so articulate and expressive, and I feel like I am actually understanding life as you see it and experience it.

This is the first year you have activities that take you out of the home and away from me, and it was such a hard adjustment at first! I miss having my little friend and helper with me. But being the little social butterfly that you are, you are loving it! You love preschool so much, even though you already know 99% of the things they are working on! Being among friends and in the heart of the social activities is totally your element, as long as it is on your terms! But you do not like to perform on demand! You hole up like a frightened turtle!

You have always had a very keen awareness of other's emotions. You have this uncanny ability to attend to people who are hurt, sick, or sad; or to make people feel welcome and included. I think you would make a fantastic doctor or psychologist someday. You also have the ability to cut someone to the core with the flick of your tongue, or the glare of your eye!

You love your little sister so much. I have watched in absolute awe at how well you adjusted to her and loved her from day one. I am also continually amazed at how willing you are to give on her behalf. I've watched you share some of your most precious belongings with her, most particularly letting her take over your beloved Delilah doll. And maybe this is wrong, but the many a mornings when I hear you two literally screaming and yelling at each other over a toy, I can't help but laugh and just appreciate that you have each other to fight with! You will be best friends your whole life.

You still love all things pretty- dresses, skirts, hair styles, shoes, purses, princesses, dolls, and so on. You pick your own outfits entirely these days, and you are even doing your own hair now too! Most of the time I am shocked at how good it looks! You still love kid tv and movies, books, mac n noodle, Barbies, and big Delilah (the toddler version we had to buy when Kendal took over baby D). You have turned into quite the crafter these days. You love to draw, cut, color, paint, play dough. Everyday you ask me if I will show you how to draw something new...which is quickly becoming a problem because my artist skills are not much to brag about! You love your daddy. You love helping me clean and cook, especially cracking eggs.

You LOVE your cousins. You ask to play with Ella every single solitary day. You frequently ask about Millie and what she is doing, and when we can see her. Every night in your prayers you say "thank you that we can live in B and see Ella, Joshy, Caleb and Audrey all the time."

I love you so much. You are such a beautiful little girl, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for you, and for us. We will be staying up nights talking all too soon! But for now, I am relishing in your crazy four year old logic, and the power struggles, and discoveries, and I thank God that my main job in life is to do just that... relish in you!

Happy Birthday Kendal Grace!

2009-11-05T10:56:00.000-08:00

My Darling Baby Girl!

How, how, how can you be two already?! I have loved every minute of your short life. I can't imagine mine without yours. It really is flying by too quickly, and it makes me almost frantic about soaking you up. I find myself trying to memorize the sound of your voice, the funny things you say, the millions of facial expressions you have, because I know the next time I turn around you will have moved on to something new.

I have yet to put my finger on what is it, but you have a certain quality that is so endearing, it is positively irresistible! And its a good thing too, because if you didn't have that quality I don't know what I'd do with you! You are impossible, and I do mean impossible, to keep up with! You were such a mellow and calm baby... has that ever changed! You are literally non-stop, all day, everyday. If I turn my back for two minutes, I find you knee deep in some disaster, or up on top of my counters getting into the food cupboard, or hanging on the outside of Amaya's bunk bed, or on top of the washer and dryer trying to get into the medicine cabinet, or into my makeup, or smearing makeup all over Gramma's carpets (I have been extremely thankful for our solid surface floors throughout our entire house!).

But it never fails, that when I think I am about to snap, you smother me with your unbeatable hugs and kisses. You give them up unsolicited, and it is like receiving a million dollars every time. You are so unbelievably tender, which may be the saving grace. It is so heart warming. You love to snuggle and cuddle, and be held, and sang to. Every night when we put you down you say "lay down with me," and every night I curl myself into a tiny little ball just so I can lie down next to you in your tiny toddler bed, because how could I resist?!

You give your big sister a run for her money, and she is probably pretty clueless that you idolize her in every way. You two are as sweet as sugar one minute, and absolutely ruthless the next, but anytime she is away you ask about her non-stop. "We sure miss Amaya, don't we?"

You are independent. You are sweet. You are insistent, painfully so. You love Princesses, and dress up, and make up, and having your hair done. You love your daddy. You love Che, and pester him to no end, picking him up by his ears, carrying him around like your baby, throwing him in the bathtub, sneaking him food from the table. You love the songs Black Bird, and Somewhere Over the Rainbow. You will eat anything mom or dad are eating, but you LOVE fruit snacks, cheese and granola bars. You love shoes, and clomp around in my stilettos effortlessly. You do not listen worth beans. You are not at all afraid of daddy and his 'you're in big trouble' voice. You like to taunt. You love to read. You LOVE to perform. "Mommy- look at me! Mommy- watch this!" You LOVE to dance and do it everyday. You want to wear a swimsuit all day everyday, and when I say no, you want pajamas instead. You bust out Spanish words randomly. You want to wear panties, and will occasionally go potty in the toilet, but with absolutely no consistency. You make me laugh every single day without fail. You are a joy in my life. I adore everything about you. God is real, and I know that when I get to be with you.

Birthday Girls!!

2009-11-05T10:43:00.001-08:00

Our beauties turned 2 and 4 last week! Crazy how time flies! Birthdays are even more fun now that we live in our home town! So much family to help us celebrate! It was a weekend-long event.

Started with birthday breakfast at a delicious local breakfast nook with just our little family. Next we met up with Papa and Nana to see the much anticipated Where the Wild Things Are, which, is a children's book turned into an adult movie. The kids were moderately entertained, but mostly scared.

Then we went to Nana and Papa's house for presents and cake. They were spoiled rotten with hand made blankets from Nana! Amaya chose her own Barbie material, and Kendal was thrilled with her Cinderella. They also got adorable matching Adidas outfits.

Sunday was birthday dinner and Grammy's and Grampa's house. Followed by more cake and more presents!

Thank you to everyone for the love and presents! The girls were thrilled with them all!

Happy Birthday to my beautiful girls! Time is passing me by in an instant, and I feel sad that I can't slow it down a little. But I am sure loving the ride!

Amaya's First Day of School

2009-10-28T21:52:00.001-07:00

Amaya is now in preschool! I can't believe she is already that old! She picked out her own outfit the night before, had it all laid out, had her backpack sitting by the door, and everything was ready.

She walked right into that classroom, and never looked back! She hardly even noticed when I left.

Little Kendal was pretty broken without Amaya. She kept saying the whole two hours "we miss our Amaya, don't we?!"

Also, I would like to say that I managed to not cry. Although, honestly, I felt mildly panicked and emotional the whole week leading up to it.

Playing in the Sand

2009-07-06T07:31:00.000-07:00

Ever since Amaya saw the Curious George episode where they go to the beach and build a sand castle, she has been dying to build one of her own! She finally realized that dream this weekend at McCall Lake. Kendal did her best to destroy her creation at every given chance, but Amaya prevailed and made quite an impressive sandcastle (of which I did not get a picture).

Fourth o July

2009-07-05T20:35:00.000-07:00

Jacob, Millie, Amaya and Kendal playing in the sand after lunch

my dead sexy husband and Kendal Gracie

me and Amaya after she got the nerve to jump into the lake! I was so impressed with her. She only lasted a few seconds, but it was freezing, so I didn't last much longer!

Lil KBear in the pink life jacket she had to have

Millie, Leah and Kendal

always competing: who can stay in the longest

diving in

brothers

Spence

Leah and Millie nice and comfortable at the back of the boat

me and Kendal taking in the speed from the front of the boat- she loved it!

She and Amaya kept telling Spencer to go faster!!

Amaya at the front of the boat. She was in 7th heaven!

Amaya loving the boat ride.

We had an awesome weekend with Joe's fam up in McCall. It was so nice to get out of town and relax with the famdam! And good to get some hubby time in before he took off to Alaska for a brother trip. Lucky boys!

We had so much fun! The only complaint- McCall Lake needs more public docks!!

The Firework Show

2009-07-05T07:00:00.000-07:00

Amaya and I met up with Nana and Papa and Steve's crew to watch the firework show on the lake. Crispy, sunburned Joe, and extremely tired and wired Kendal stayed back at the hotel to sleep and call it a night. I debated on whether or not it was really worth it for us to go, but watching her expression during the fireworks made it worth it and then some! She absolutely loved them, and couldn't wait to get home and tell her daddy all about it! And the fireworks right over the lake were pretty cool.

Amaya throwing popits at everyone passing by

Jacob and Erik getting in on the action.

I ended up with all the glowies Amaya refused to wear

She was soooo enthralled with the fireworks!

Throughout the entire show.

Watching her was more exciting for me than watching the fireworks!

Still amazed!

Not too happy about having to wear all the glowies on the walk back to the car, but it makes it much easier on moms when their children are glowing!

My Sister is (was) home!!

2009-06-27T11:29:00.001-07:00

Hooray!! After a looooooooong year and a half my sister Nay is home from her mission in Phili!

Brookann and I actually missed her walking off the plane because it was two minutes early! What?! And because I was pulled over in the airport parking lot. Bless that kid cop who let me off even though I didn't have my license with me! He took my info and walked back to his car just long enough to get stickers for the girls. What a stud.

Our reunion was short lived. She came home on Tuesday and left Thursday morning for Romania to meet my parents and sister Alicia who are there to pick up my brother Trevor from his mission! Phew! On July 8th my whole fam will be reunited! Can't wait!!! Whoever says missions fly by is crazy!

Sweet Summers

2009-06-27T10:46:00.000-07:00

Meet Che

2009-05-16T15:58:00.000-07:00

The newest member of our fam.... Kendal and Amaya have been begging for a dog for a looooong time. So when we saw this little face, we couldn't possibly say no! He is a "Morkie." A Yorkie/Maltese mix. He will be between 6-8 lbs full grown, and is all of 1.5 adorable lbs now at ten weeks. Joe may have been successful in curbing my baby hunger with this move...for a while anway!

Mother's Day is extra special

2009-05-10T19:43:00.000-07:00

When you're the mother of these two,

and the wife of this guy!

Because its been too long...

2009-05-10T19:35:00.000-07:00

The KBear is talking in little three to four word sentences now.

Amaya and Kendal are the sweetest, best little friends. Fierce with each other, and yet fiercely protective of each other.

We love, love, love being home.

Updates

2009-04-16T15:49:00.000-07:00

A) There IS in fact a solution for the dreaded chocolate milk stain: a nice long soak in Oxy Clean (oh blessed Oxy: buy it; use it; love it) and a HOT, yes you read that correctly- HOT wash. And just to be safe- hang dry, in the unlikely event that the process needs to be repeated.

B) I did, in fact, meet my quota for cooking two meals this week; in fact I went above and beyond and did three: I rule!

C) I have a camcorder. I was uber excited to get it because I wanted to document the adorableness of my children and their growing stages. I have a camcorder that I cannot use, for lack of cords. Also a cell phone that has no charger. My house seems to be eating useful cords, and spewing up inutile ones.

D) I had the enlightening experience of accidentally injecting myself (in the thumb) with my daughter's epi pen. It startled me. And then it made it my heart race and my hands shake. And then it made my thumb pulsate and swell to the point that I truly wondered if it would fall off. And then it remained white, and freezing cold for several hours. And then I called Poison Control and was instructed to go to the ER to avoid tissue and never damage. And then I rejected said advice and ran it under hot water and did warm compresses and massages. And then I woke up the next morning with a pink, healthy, purple bruised thumb that is fully functioning.

meaty thigh through Levis- yes
Big needle into small thumbs- no

Remember when I used to blog?!

2009-04-10T09:05:00.001-07:00

Well, it was bound to happen... my brain would get too boggled with random, unimportant, useless (or maybe not), pieces of information that were begging to be released, and since this is my medium for such tidbits, the time has come for another random post.

I would love to post videos of my all-too-adorable daughters doing new and exciting things (like Kendal saying "I looooo youu" in the most adorable voice ever, and talking up a storm; or Amaya asking, ahem, very probing questions) But alas, I can't find the cord to my camcorder, or the cord for my camera's battery charger, or the cord to charge my phone. So. No pics, yet.

But here are some randoms:

a) it pains my soul that the Costco here does not sell delicious Naked orange juice. For a quick look at my feelings about Naked see this post.

b) I have found hard surface floors through the entire house quite delightful for spills and such, less enjoyable for footed jammies and socked feet.

c) Chocolate milk does not want to come out of kids' clothes, no matter how hard I try.

d) I have found a use for the Swiffer dry mop that may be even more exciting than its intended purpose:

It is a big flat surface on a long handle, which makes it perfect for killing spiders from a further, less nerve-racking distance. Particularly on ceilings, where former methods such as hitting with a shoe, required way too close contact and the likely possibility that I would miss, and it would fall, somewhere; which explains why I never could do that. For a quick look at my feelings on spiders- see this post.

e) secretly I like having to fit everything we own in smaller spaces, as it forces efficiency and organization- two things I love. Our home feels very cozy. I like it.

f) I might cook a real meal two days in a row next week, but don't bet your tax return on it.

My Zumba classes begin!

2009-04-04T08:01:00.000-07:00

Weeehooo! I am so excited! Amongst all of this craziness, I have managed to set a date for my free preview classes for Zumba! You can check out the deets here on my new Zumba blog.

And you can enter a chance to win two free classes on A Thrifty Mom's blog here. Can't wait to see you there, and if you don't live in my area, check out this site for a class locator in your area- you won't regret it! It is the most fun way to workout! Viva la Zumba! :)

A Heavy Heart

2009-03-19T19:27:00.000-07:00

Today was a struggle. A culmination of a lot of things that resulted in me finally feeling like I hit my threshold. I feel so physically exhausted, emotionally exhausted, and spiritually exhausted that I absolutely sucked as a mother today.

We've stayed up until 4 or 5am on several occasions this week trying to get into that house before Joe left for a weekend trip, (to no avail), and today when I couldn't get my over-tired (and therefore extremely grumpy and unreasonable) three year old to take nap, and when her protests woke up my peacefully sleeping one year old, I snapped. I'm pretty sure I broke every rule in the book of positive parenting (with the exception of abusing, of course).

But tonight as I poured my weary soul to the Lord in prayer, I felt so overcome with gratitude; and so humbled by guilt for being ungrateful for my blessings:

I am thankful I have children who are capable of walking out of their beds when they should be napping.

I am thankful I have daughters who have voices that can talk back to me.

I am thankful I have daughters who are resisting sleep because their minds are so active and inquisitive.

I am thankful that I am the one they are disobeying all day long, and not a caretaker.

And when I realize that I am missing these beautiful blessings because I am too wrapped up in trying to get some stupid task accomplished; and that I am viewing my children as a hindrance and burden instead of what they really are: the source of joy in my life and my purpose for living; it makes me never want to waste another day with that mindset.

I am thankful. I am thankful. I am thankful.

calling Miss Heather

2009-03-17T07:57:00.001-07:00

Heather!
Remember that adorable post with a string tied around your finger....? I forgot to do it! What is your new url, that I may partake in your never ending humor!

Tempting

2009-03-13T10:04:00.000-07:00

This is too funny!

Warms my heart

2009-02-24T15:21:00.000-08:00

She

definitely

child!

Picture Perfect

2009-02-21T19:59:00.000-08:00

The lengths I'll go to get number 1 to take a nap!

Yes- I have resorted to driving aimlessly for a couple hours during the middle of the day just to get Amaya to take a nap! I don't do it everyday, just the real rough days when she wakes up so tired she can't even function. Believe me- I have tried everything in the book to get her to nap, but her strong little personality is such that she would rather sit in a room screaming for two hours than give in and actually sleep. But the second I lock her in a carseat- she's out. So I drive around all my favorite parts of town, looking at all the houses, something I actually love doing anyway, and enjoy some peace and quiet. It all works out in the end. Often, I pull over and read a book. So long as I keep the car running- they keep sleeping, and everybody is happier. So don't be alarmed if you see my drive by your house 15 times in an afternoon... its just what I do!

The Kendal G's.

2009-02-19T09:40:00.000-08:00

Kendal G. and Kendal Grace

There is no denying the special bond between these two! Gracey absolutely adores her Gramps! He is the only person whose arms she will not leave for mine! And whenever he comes home, she goes running to him. And I mean running, no sauntering or strolling about it. He always puts her head up into the "ceiling of lights" in the kitchen, and lets her touch the hanging light in the hallway. So now Kendal points out lights everywhere we go. "Liiiiiights!" Adorable. Have I mentioned how glad I am to be home?

Bella's Christmas Spirit

2009-02-19T09:30:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry, but I have to do it. I have to brag on my adorable daughter. This Christmas Amaya worked around the house doing chores for my mom so she could earn money to buy presents for her whole family, ALL unbeknownst to me! She had my mom take her to the dollar store, and personally selected a gift for everyone.

She made me a lavender satchel with her hand print on it.

She bought Kbear a little baby.

She bought Daddy some shaving cream.

Grams and Gramps got popcorn.

Alicia got a puzzle.

And she even bought herself some kickin green heels, that she wrapped and labeled to Amaya, love Amaya (with a little help, of course.)

How positively adorable is that? That is the true spirit of Christmas! And seeing that was the best present I got!

Christmas Morning

2009-02-19T08:41:00.001-08:00

I think Alicia is more excited about the blocks than Kendal!

Grammy!

what are you looking at?!

all things Princess, of course.

Grace Cakes wants in on the girly action!

New baby. She carried it all over saying "baby, baby!"

the only thing she had to have from Santa!

Tired, happy parents.

Joe rules! Surprised me with 2 pairs of Uggs!

Merry Christmas!

The most un-perfect way to start the day

2009-02-16T21:15:00.000-08:00

First thing in the morning, I'm on the potty, and Amaya comes up and starts combing my hair while talking to me. Sweet enough, until I realize its a round brush- you know the kind.
"Lets not use that kind of brush, honey, they get tangled in long hair really easily" I say to her.
AS I am saying this, she rolls the brush all the way up my hair and then tries to pull it out. Sure enough, I am a tangled disaster. Nobody is home to help me get it out, so I spend a good 30 minutes picking out piece by piece, feeling more and more frantic and chlosterphobic as time goes on, and I realize its not getting any better, and the pieces I am getting out are actually just being broken off.

Meanwhile, Amaya is asking me about every 5 minutes while happily wathcing her 'kid tv' if I got it yet.

Finally I resort to calling my mom in law hairdresser. I climb into my car the second my mom gets home to watch the girls, and drive across town, with absolutely no make up, bed head, and holding a brush that is tangled in my hair off to one side so it doesn't obstruct my vision while driving. In my head I was
daring a cop to pull me over!

We finally ended up cutting the brush out. No other option. Thankfully, it was further back on my head, and random pieces, so not a huge chunk. We literally cut it about 2 inches from the scalp. I'll post my mom in law's pic when I get it!

Wow.

Good morning!

(and I guess I just inadvertenly accomplished the "post a picture first thing in the morning with no makeup" challenge given by my friend Heather. Liberating indeed.)

Burnt toast explanation

2009-02-12T22:06:00.000-08:00

Amaya "Mother! You better come upstairs."

Me "Why? What's wrong?"

Amaya "I made a really big disaster! Just come up right now. Stuff is everywhere!"

Me "Oh boy."

- run upstairs to find smoke pouring out of the microwave! Crazy because she had only been upstairs for 2 minutes TOPS!

Amaya "The microwave is breathing smoke Mother! But its ok. It was just an accident. We can clean it up, right Mother? I guess I shouldn't make toast in the microwave anymore, because I'm too little."

- I wish I had my real camcorder this day. All I got was a pathetic little smidgen of her hilarious explanations.

My Little Chef

2009-02-12T19:27:00.000-08:00

Amaya loves to cook. She especially enjoys making Grammy's Dutch Babies- delicious! She loves cracking the eggs, and is actually quite impressive doing it. However, sometimes she gets a little big for her own britches, and decides she can do everything her self. This is what happened when she decided to make her own toast... in the microwave!

TDay with the Outlaws

2009-02-05T18:14:00.003-08:00

men in the kitchen... oh boy

It wouldn't be Thanksgiving without the bird!

TDay spectacs

2009-02-05T18:06:00.000-08:00

first time the whole B fam has been together in over a decade!

more TDay spectacs

2009-02-05T17:37:00.000-08:00

catch up... in a major way

2009-02-03T08:52:00.001-08:00

Sorry- I've dug out my camera and need to play some wild catch up (like clear back to TDay), for my own sake; look if you'd like, don't if don't! My blog. My rules. :) This is only the beginning.

2009-02-03T08:10:00.000-08:00

Christmas is coming the goose is getting fat...

2009-02-03T07:49:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas. The decorations couldn't be up soon enough, and the music couldn't be loud enough! I love even more that my girls feel the same way! They were so excited to help decorate this year.

2 things...

2009-02-02T21:52:00.000-08:00

There are two little actions Kendal does that are positively irresistable:

The ever so innocent tilt of the head.

and the "please hold me" hands.

Whoever can resist either of those two things is heartless!

Happy belated BDay!

2009-01-27T10:12:00.000-08:00

Happy BDay Hubs!

We had a great Birthday weekend- went to dinner and a concert Friday night, surprised Joe with a room at Anniversary Inn (living near gparents definitely has its perks!), and went to an album release party Saturday night.

Joe is the best husband and father a girl could ask for. Everyday I appreciate him more for who he is. I love your guts out Joey!

(Sorry no pics- I've not been myself lately- messy, living out of suitcases, no camera around my neck.... who am I?!)

NEW RULE!!!

2009-01-23T09:50:00.000-08:00

Everyone! Everyone that comes to my page (which isn't very many lately due to my lack of posts) MUST MUST MUST go visit my friend Heather's page!

She is so friggin funny I promise you will laugh at her posts. All these great mom blogs that get tons of traffic because people that don't know them promote their blogs... it should be her! She is that funny, and she posts pretty much everyday. So go look at her page. Read her hilarious shaving, morning glory, mom is in a rut posts and laugh your butt off, and then share her link on your page for everybody else.

Poor lil Gracey!!

2009-01-19T09:32:00.000-08:00

Our poor little baby girl has the chicken pox. I'm being told this is a fairly mild case compared to some, but it's bad enough for me (and her)! She is surprisingly pleasant and her good-tempered self...during the day. Nights are another story! Poor girl can't find any comfort, even with oatmeal baths and calamine smotherings, and rolls around moaning and fussing, but isn't content being held either! Hope this passes sooner than later! I can't stand watching my children suffer without being able to ease the pain. Joe keeps saying this is harder on me than her!

(Also- my good camera is packed away. These are from my little point and shoot and don't accurately portray her battle wounds. As far as her face is concerned- I think we are getting a preview of 13 year old acne- only isn't hiding in her bedroom, crying, refusing to be seen by the world! We've got another 12 years before we're dealing with that one.)

This just ain't right...

2009-01-19T09:03:00.000-08:00

Real me:Current me:

I am far too anal for this!

The kindness of others never ceases to amaze me

2009-01-08T16:19:00.000-08:00

I have to dedicate at least one post to thank so many who have helped us. I have literally been humbled, thankful, and so deeply astounded at the generosity of so many in our lives who have gone far beyond the call of duty to help us as of late. Particularly family. I have always had a hard time accepting other people's service. Not because I am too proud to accept it, but because I feel so badly putting anyone out, or burdening anybody else with my problems- who doesn't have their own to deal with?! And I have never been able to adequately express the gratitude I feel: it's like my mouth won't express what my heart wants to say.

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I am inspired to be a better person, more Christ like, more willing to sacrifice, more loving, and more understanding because of watching and receiving your acts of kindness. Everyone. Those who have been an ear to listen, those who have provided for us our most basic needs,those who have given words of encouragement, right down to our dear sweet Bishop in old town who chased me down on my way out of town to wish me well and give me a gift.

My only hope of showing my sincere thanks is to one day be able to do the same for friends or family in need.

More musings, more boggled, more madness...it's all I've got

2009-01-08T16:13:00.000-08:00

More random musings:

Renovating houses takes much longer than expected.
Especially while taking a one week break to watch sister's 3 children in addition to my 2.
Having 5 kids was actually quite delightful (once they all got well).
Living out of suitcases/bags for this long and with this many people is painful.
Life comes at you fast.
We did play in the snow, and Amaya quite liked it...for 5 mintues.
Kendal is a sweet little doll.
My poor parents thought they would be empty nesters, only to have their daughter hit by a car and move home, then their other daughter with her husband and 2 children move home, soon to be followed by their son moving home from Texas. He will probably move out just in time for their 2 missionaries to come home.
Trials make us stronger... or so they say! :)

Random Musings from a boggled mind...

2008-12-24T13:47:00.000-08:00

My favorite blog stalker has informed me that I am severely slacking in my blogging duties and need to post regardless of my lack of camera and pictures (all packed away), my very scrambled and befuddled brain, and my lack of time. Merry Christmas friend! (And to think all this pressure is from a non-blogger! Gasp!) But as usual- this boggled list will appear even more painfully disorganized on account of my perpetual formatting issues.

* The snow keeps a coming, and I have thought to myself several times "my children might enjoy playing in that cold white stuff they have seen so little of in our last couple(ish) years in the desert".... Too bad their attempt at winter clothes are packed away in a box in a garage that is full from floor to ceiling. I think we may need to re-purchase winter wardrobes.

*Being forced out of our future house for a few days so the floors could be refinished was a welcomed event. Having those few days turn into over a week- frustrating when there is so much to be done. It will be worth it though when I walk in and see those beautiful original wood floors shining with urethane. And I have loved being with the girls all day again.

*I love finding Christmas I've been stowing away for months that I forgot about! Especially when I was feeling under-prepared and short on time.

*Living with parents is fun when you know it is for a definitive amount of time. But wow! We've already been here 3 weeks. Out of which Joe has been gone about a week and a half. So he isn't ready to kill my family- at least he isn't saying so...yet.

*Amaya can be as sweet as sugar. She is too smart for her own good.

*Perk of living with parents- Amaya goes to their bedroom every morning to ask for breakfast and bypasses ours completely.

*Disadvantage- having to sleep in the same room as Kendal, who is not sleeping at all. Ever. Teething is painful. Sleep deprivation for all 3 of us is criminal.

*Kendal must have also hit a growth spurt. I don't know how else to explain her constant desire to eat, or the fact that she is putting down more food than I eat! Literally.

*Amaya calls her cousins her friends, and asks everyday if they are coming over.

* Crafting with the kids was delightful and kept them entertained for an impressive amount of time. If I had a camera I would insert a picture of Amaya's pipe-cleaner snowflake, or her glitter glue snowflake. The girl has mad tracing skills! Seriously.

*Kendal is repeating everything that everyone says. And it is intelligible about 30% of the time.

*I wander through my friends' houses and wonder if I am decorating-impaired.

*Amaya asks me in fear every night if Santa is coming tonight, and says she doesn't want him to come and see her while she is sleeping. She wishes for him to stay in the North Pole, and is plenty satisfied with the presents from just mom and dad. I told her we would arrange a gift drop location for our gifts from Santa so he wouldn't have to come to our house.

*Uggs really are warm and delicious.

*I hate coats. Need them while walking to and from, but don't know what to do with them for the rest of the time. Especially when I have an additional two to carry.

*Ribs for Christmas Eve dinner makes me happy.

*I am wickedly thankful to friends who have helped with the move and renovations and such. Particularly to my unemployed friend who spent his entire (and I mean entire) day painting with me. Made the time fly by.

*Loving all the Christmas card from everyone! Wishing I had one to send, but thinking (probably unrealistically) that a New Year's card may be in order from us.

That's it for now. Merry Christmas everyone!

*

Fun... Not so fun...

2008-12-01T11:50:00.000-08:00

FUN- driving home for Thanksgiving to see wonderful friends and family!

NOT FUN- driving in a car for 10 hours with Kendal! That kid does not travel well! She lets out a painfully high-pitched scream about every 30 seconds, for pretty much the entire duration of the trip. And she has a very hard time falling asleep with all the distractions. Note to self for future car trips- BENADRYL!!!!

Still totally worth it though. And, its hard to be mad when you look back and see that adorable face looking at you like "what'd I do?" Oh she's lucky she's so stinkin adorable!

Six Blissful Years

2008-11-29T09:18:00.001-08:00

6 years ago today I married the man I am still madly in love with! He is the best father, husband, friend, companion, protector I could have ever conjured up in my head, let alone in real life. I am so grateful to be married to him, and to have the kind of relationship that I genuinely enjoy and am fulfilled by. I am even grateful for the occasional rough spots, as they make us stronger and more appreciative of each other as they work themselves out. There is truly no one else on Earth I would choose to spend my time with. He easily makes my top 3 list of things to take with me to a deserted island. I heart him.

blogging Gripes

2008-11-24T08:19:00.001-08:00

So I got rid of the photobucket insignia by deleting my background. I'm back to black minima, and I kind of like it...for now. however- I still have the perpetual formatting problem I have previously mentioned:can't get things to post as I type them in paragraph format and such. I know it isn't just me or my computer, because I can post things exactly as I type them on my family's blog, its just on my blog. Anyone else ever encountered this problem? Any computer geniuses that would know how to fix this dilemma? It is particularly painful for an OCD detail oriented person such as myself. weird.

Hopelessly Devoted

2008-11-24T08:12:00.001-08:00

to this guy!

What the?!

2008-11-19T21:32:00.000-08:00

First of: Where have all the bloggers gone? Not much activity these days.
Second: What is this Photobucket bandwidth exceeded crap? And suddenly my layout is gone as well?
Help? Anyone? Is blogger going ghetto and making us pay for layouts now? I have no idea what is going on. Suggestions and/or explanations please.
Thank you.

Husband tag!

2008-11-15T09:23:00.000-08:00

5 things he Loves:

1. Me and the girls

2. An easy-going round of golf

3. The change of seasons

4. Homerun derby

5. Skiing

5 things on his To Do List:

1. Get his masters and/or doctorate in History

2. Visit New Zealand

3. Return to Argentina

4. Buy an old car and restore it, preferably a 67 Chevelle.

5. Write a History Book

5 Foods he enjoys:

1. Potato chips with worcestershire sauce

2. Chicken Madera from Cheesecake Factory

3. My Chicken Parmesan

4. Two frozen Ding Dongs and a huge glass of whole milk (usually around bed time. sick.)

5. Sour Patch kids or Swedish Fish

5 things you may not Know about him:

1. He loves to read Historical non-fiction books

2. He hates massages

3. He believes the person who made dinner, shouldn't clean up after dinner

4. He hates having a dirty car

5. He makes a mean pancake, and delicious sea food. And the best Rice Krispie treats

5 Places he's lived:

1. Boise, Idaho

2. Wenatchee, Washington

3. Provo, Utah

4. Cordoba, Argentina

5. our current place of residence (no current locals on an open blog...sorry)

5 Quirky things about him:

1. He always hold his Qtip the same way: with one pinky up

2. He is constantly analyzing the road and traffic while he drives

3. He thinks he could be a Nascar driver, but doesn't really care for Nascar

4. He has a cast iron stomach and has only had diarrhea once in his life (recently, hahaha)

5. He can't stand being in the house all day without leaving; it makes him very stir crazy.

5 People to tag:

1. Lindsey M.

2. Stacie D.

3. Heather L.

4. Sarah Y.

5. Valerie T.

This is tender

2008-11-14T17:22:00.001-08:00

Regardless of who you voted for, this is a tender moment captured on film! Click to enlarge for more detail.

Halloween!!

2008-11-11T20:24:00.001-08:00

Some girls are Princesses for Halloween... some girls are Princesses from birth.Our little diva is sure to let everyone know she is a "Princess girl" all the time, and she certainly fits the role.

Tailor (her best little friend) and Amaya
Tailor, Amaya and the new boy they instantly befriended.

The sweetest little lady bug.

Trick or Treating was particularly interesting since Kendal insisted on walking by herself.

Luckily, she tired quickly. Walking is hard work for such little legs!

We had a great time with all the different parties, and the actual trick or treating. Amaya was still petrified by most of the decorations, but was extremely motivated by the free candy. With candy as the reward, she can brave most anything.

ChEesE hEaD!!

2008-11-09T16:29:00.000-08:00

This delectible goat cheese was another find from the Costco traveling cheese show. So soft and creamy, easily (and deliciously) spread on crackers or bread, or even bagels. Do not be alarmed by the "goat" part. It is yum yum yum!

also- yes I do love my children more than cheese, and will post Halloween pics soon... as soon as I get the pics off my camera onto the computer!

A new favorite

2008-11-07T07:51:00.001-08:00

Wensleydale cheese! Holy delicious! I just bought some at Costco, of all places, from one of their touring/traveling sales. How I love Costco, and yet hate it all the same, because now when my delicious block of Wensleydale with cranberries runs out, I will not be able to go back to Costco and buy more, and will have to start mad hunting at uppity grocery stores, or online searches.

I am not a food critic that is good at describing in words how a food tastes, so here is a description from good ol' Wikipedia, but take it from me: if you like cheese, you will like this!

I have been putting it on everything! It is particularly delicious broiled on ciabata bread with chicken marinated in a raspberry vinaigrette and fresh avocado.

Dear Kendal Grace

2008-10-29T22:27:00.000-07:00

From the moment you joined our family, one year ago, you have been sweeter than sugar! What a dream baby you were: always content, except for when you were hungry or tired, a great eater from the get-go, and a good sleeper. But now, so soon, those baby days have past, and your personality has magnified- you're even sweeter than before, if that is possible.

You have adored your sister since the day you met her. When you were really little, she was the only one who could get you to smile every single time, without fail! You love to follow her around and try to keep up with everything she is doing. How perfect, because she equally adores you. "Amaya" was one of your first words, and I could hardly believe it when I heard you say it clear as a bell.

You're a big fan of daddy. You love rough housing with him, although that took some conditioning. Now you can't get enough of it, and run back for more until he is too exhausted to continue.

But you are a mama's girl through and through! I'd be lying if I said it didn't warm my heart a little that you jump into my arms at any given opportunity. It is so endearing to see your face light up when I enter the room.

You are a tender little soul. You give the best kisses anyone could ever ask for- big open mouthers. You are a snugly girl too. It is one of our favorite things about you that we can kiss on you endlessly without you ever getting annoyed, and that you lean into our loving, as if asking for more.

You do have a little spit fire too. When you get mad, you get mad! There is no in between with you. But your anger always has a reason, and once your need is met, you're back to the happy-go-lucky girl we know. I'm actually glad to see a little ferocity in you. A mother is always relieved to know that her child can hold her own.

Where has the time gone? Already, you are looking more and more like a little girl, especially since you are now walking! And your endless babbling sounds more and more like real talking. Not to mention the real words you do use! It seems like yesterday we had just delivered you, and yet, it seems you've been a part of our family forever. It wouldn't feel complete without you.

Although our one-on-one moments have been less frequent than I wish, they have been cherished, and will be forever. You are an angel, and will always have a special place in my heart.

Kendal Gracie's {FIRST} birthday bbq!!

2008-10-29T22:19:00.000-07:00

The day after Amaya's Princess Party, was Kendal's FIRST birthday!

(thus the same decor)

What better way to celebrate than BBQing with friends and family?

We had a great time eating, chatting, kids playing on the playground

and the boys playing home run derby.

We haven't quite figured out how we are going to deal with

their birthdays being one day apart for the rest of their lives...

Guess that will be determined with time.

As for this year- both parties were a blast! And I dont' think I would really mind

planning two parties every year?!

FAMILY and FRIENDS

2008-10-29T21:57:00.000-07:00

Presents for all!

2008-10-29T21:52:00.000-07:00

Well... at least for Kendal and Amaya.

the CaKe!!

2008-10-29T21:41:00.000-07:00

She LOVED the cake, but she was a dainty little thing;

Never did DiG in!
She did, however, offer bites off her hand to anyone who passed by.

And she was
{MAD}
when I finally took the cake away!

A much needed thanks...

2008-10-28T23:16:00.000-07:00

to the Hot Mamas who stuck around during Amaya's party to help tame the masses! Like we always say- containing that many girls is like herding cats! Thanks chicks! You are the greatest!

Princess Amaya

2008-10-27T21:10:00.000-07:00

The Birthday Princess

Amaya is positively obsessed with all things Princess! So it was no surprise to us when she said she wanted a Princess Party for her birthday!
She was so excited to have all of her little girlfriends over for a tea party, dressed in their
finest castle attire!
I had an absolute blast planning it all! And to see and hear her reaction when she woke up the morning of the party and saw the decorations
made every minute well worth it!

She was an absolute doll at her party! She was so polite and kind to her friends.
She made sure they all felt welcome and included,
and gave each one a hug when they arrived, telling them how glad she was to see them!

We were especially happy to have our special guest
Nana,
who came all the way from Boise to attend the party!

Amaya never ceases to amaze me with her "old soul" and understanding beyond her years!

3 years! Wow how they've flown!
We sure love our sweet little pistol Amayabelle!

(And now for a slew of posts from her party! Too many cute pics for me to narrow down...)

Princesses Party Decorations

2008-10-27T21:09:00.000-07:00

"WeLcOmE to the tEa PaRtY pRiNcEsSeS"

Definitely did not make this cake- WalMart special.

{pre-party}

2008-10-27T21:08:00.000-07:00

pin the KISS ON the FROG

2008-10-27T21:07:00.000-07:00

the Princess and the Pea

2008-10-27T21:06:00.000-07:00

reading the book "Princess and the Pea"
finding the "pea"

a real princess!

dAncE, DaNcE, DAncE!

2008-10-27T21:05:00.000-07:00

yummy {eats}

2008-10-27T20:58:00.000-07:00

PRESENTS!!

2008-10-27T20:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Amaya Isabelle

2008-10-26T21:41:00.000-07:00

As your mother, I've experienced the entire gamut of emotions that come with child rearing: joy beyond measure, pride, unconditional love, sacrifice, guilt, frustration, worry, insanity, humility and pure happiness.

You have shown me my weaknesses, and solidified my strengths. You have tested the limits of my patience, and made me feel loved beyond what I thought was possible.

You came down with your own personality- sweet but strong, smart, independent, confident, intelligent, persistent, caring, sincere, honest and pure. We have felt such a change in our home since you arrived 3 years ago, and now its as if you were always here.

You are the most adoring big sister that ever has been. You have been a mother hen to Kendal since the moment you first met her, and continue to be her protector and "best friend," as you always say. You are fiercely protective of her while out in public, making certain that no one talks to her without getting your approval first. You are always so anxious for her to wake up in the morning and greet her with the most enthusiastic and loving hello, day in and day out.

You are a daddy's girl to the core. You have such a special bond with him, and he gets so much joy and fulfillment out of being your father. You are constantly concerned for his well being, demonstrated by multiple phone calls to him throughout the day, and never ending questions to me about when he will be home, or can we go visit him at work. And nothing brings him more happiness than you running into his arms when he gets home and telling him how glad you are to see him and how much you missed him.

You are the best little sidekick during the day that I could ever ask for! You love to help me clean, and fold laundry, run errands, or take care of Kendal. I love that our conversations are new and interesting every day. I have always appreciated your advanced communication skills, as they have given me a rare opportunity to see into the mind of an innocent child your age.

You have given me a whole new insight to the scripture Mosiah 3:19

"For the natural man is an enemy to God, and has been from the fall of Adam, and will be, forever and ever, unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and putteth off the natural man and becometh a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father."

Thank you for 3 wonderful years, oh how I adore you!

The funniest face

2008-10-23T16:23:00.001-07:00

Both my girls have made this face about this age, and it makes me laugh everytime I see it.

How do you discipline that face?!

2008-10-15T22:10:00.001-07:00

The girl is frequently into mischief...but that face! Who could tell that face no?! Not me. I find her adorable in every possible way, even way she is being a little naughty.

Future american idols?

2008-10-15T22:03:00.000-07:00

They're beautiful... they dance...they sing... what more could America ask for?

My busted sister...

2008-10-10T13:06:00.001-07:00

My poor sister! These pics are from Friday morning, and from what I hear, they are a vast improvement from Tuesday morning. I just saw her do physical therapy (which amounted to walking 10 steps to the door and back with a walker and help from the PT's) and I nearly passed out just watching. It looked so excruciating, and she turned every shade of green on the color wheel. Glad we made the trip, even though we can't do much to help, and the kids are not up to speed on hospital etiquette, she was so happy to see us she burst into tears when we walked through the door. Thank you everyone for keeping her in your thoughts and prayers. We are lucky, it could have been so much worse.

Pray for my Sister!!

2008-10-07T19:26:00.000-07:00

My youngest sibling Alicia was hit by a car today while walking in a crosswalk to school on U of U's campus. She does not remember the impact, only waking up on the ground, and being rushed to the hospital via ambulence. Luckily, the guy that hit her did stop, and give his information.
She has a broken right femur, and had a 3 or 4 hour surgery where they inserted a metal rod to fix the broken bone. With the exception of a few minor glitches, it went off well, and she is now in recovery. Her cat scans didn't show any signs of head or internal injury.
All things considered, she is doing well. It could have been so much worse, and we are thanking the Lord for watching out for her, but are continuing to pray for a swift and full recovery. And additional prayers would be greatly appreciated.
No decisions made as of yet regarding finishing the school year or not. She will be in the hospital until this weekend, and next week (luckily) is her fall break. So I'm sure she'll be deciding whether or not to finish out the semester after the week.

Sicky sickness

2008-10-06T16:27:00.000-07:00

We're here, and we're alive, sort of, and we'll be back sooner than later. We've just had sickness plaguing our house for what seems like months now. As soon as one of us gets better, the next person gets sick! But there are only four of us, so we should be on the last round, and back in full spirits in no time. Toodles, and sniffles, for now!

BDay Celebrations

2008-09-20T20:59:00.001-07:00

Hooray for birthdays that bring together good fun, good food, and best of all... good people! Joe, me, Garry, Mike and Maria and even Libby and Dr. Darsky made a quick trip from Vegas to celebrate with some good, clean fun. First we enjoyed dinner at the finest dining small town USA has to offer: Don Pedro's; followed by gleeful activities usually enjoyed by 10 year olds: Fun Depot go carting and mini-golfing, and hoarding tickets from the arcade to buy a prize at the end of the night. (At least our hard work was used to buy our babes prizes, Libs and Darsky have nothing to show for their hard work but bigger butts! candy junkies); and ending with more 10 yr old joys- rainbow chip cake. Yup, it's my fave even now that I'm 27.

Go carting was a blast! We were the only people there, the lights went out on the track, and the attendant let us go crazy. We bumped and flipped and harassed each other for 45 minutes straight. Whiplash, yes, but definitely worth it.

spend 5 minutes with Richard and you will understand that look... he is pure entertainment!

Our house seems so empty!

2008-09-06T17:43:00.000-07:00

With my mom here last week, and Garry here for the past month, we are sadly thinking about our soon-to-be lonely little house. Calling all cards! Calling all cards! Open invitation here! Anyone? Anyone? Buhler? Buhler?

Gram Beck teaching Amaya the basics of cooking

Playing with little Gracie. She spent countless hours walking around with Kendal holding her fingers.

GTown is in Town!

2008-09-06T17:37:00.001-07:00

We have been loving having Uncle Garry in town! He has been doing training during the week, and hanging with us on the weekends. What fun. And what a great house guest.... he cleans up after himself (and Joe), he's been slaving away at work with Joe, and entertaining my kids with an energy level I can certainly not keep up with! We will be sad to see him go. Especially Amaya. She has been going to his room in the morning as opposed to ours, knowing full well that she can convince him to get up and get her breakfast and "kid tv" with much less effort than she gets mom or dad out of bed! (And she finally got his name right. He was Garrek the first week, and Garret the next.)

It's my birthday!!

2008-09-04T14:38:00.001-07:00

I am 27 years old today! Yikes! But since I am the author of this blog, I am not going to write my own tribute. So in lieu of a self-tribute, I am making a list of 27 superficial things I hate, and another of the superficial things I love. Happy BDay me!

27 superficial things I LOVE in no particular order...

2008-09-04T14:26:00.000-07:00

Kissing with fresh breath
Olive Garden breadsticks with a boat of Alfredo to dip in
The smell of Amaya's room while she is sleeping
Bubble baths and Hot tubs
Color coordinated closets
Macaroni and Cheese (especially Annie's shells and white cheddar)
Cool showers after working out
Summer rainstorms
Bluetooth
Freshly painted toe nails
Looking cute when you really weren't trying
Brutal honesty
Vacuuming
Naked Orange Juice
Visitors
Reading smutty magazines while waiting in line at the grocery store
Unexpected correspondence
Cooking a meal for the first time and having it turn out exactly as it should
Expensive denim
Sales
Freshly shaved legs
Joe's shaved head
Hoarding change
Witty banter
Earrings
Ignoring the phone while watching a movie or playing with my kids, and not feeling bad about it.

and last but not least

27. Buttermilk syrup

This one was hard to narrow down to a mere 27, so these are a little random, but a glimpse no less, at some of the randoms I love.

27 superficial things I hate in no particular order

2008-09-04T14:12:00.000-07:00

Chomping!!
Clutter
Family Guy
Pretty much any adult animated sitcom series
Bad breath
Stains
Telemarketers
Shameless self-promoters
Cars w/o air conditioning
Laundry
Junk drawers
When my car is filthy
Huge, below the surface zits that take forever to go away
Being awoken from a perfect sleep in a startling, unsettling way
Dreams that leave you feeling uneasy, and felt eerily realistic
When people don't just tell you when they are irritated or mad at you
Money-is-everything mentality
Gum that dissolves in your mouth after only a short time of chewing
Plants that die despite your best efforts to nourish and keep them alive
Vanilla flavored toothpaste
Funky smelling laundry
Bad smelling cars with no identifiable source of odor
Books with disappointing endings
People who are completely unaware of their self-centeredness
Powdered milk
Blow outs (on my babies.... or anyone really)

and last but not least

27. Only moderately talented singers/actors that are paid millions for their talent

I thought this might be hard, but I could have easily gone on.

By no means...

2008-09-03T14:16:00.000-07:00

Are we trying to get pregs. In fact, we have taken a rather extreme measure to avoid getting pregnant, in the form of an IUD. That is why Joe thinks I am crazy for even wondering if I could be. But I'm telling you, I was feeling it... and stranger things have happened. But I'm pretty sure it was just a false alarm with very unfortunate side effects.

Pregnant!

2008-09-02T21:11:00.002-07:00

Am I pregnant? No. Do I feel pregnant?
Well, if by pregnant you mean feeling fat, bloated, zitty, and exhausted, then yes, I feel pregnant. But I peed on a stick, and it was negative. So what's my excuse?!
Oh, and tear for my mother leaving.

And she's off!

2008-08-22T09:25:00.000-07:00

Darling little Kendal Gracie took 3 consecutive steps yesterday while she was with her Daddy! Oh my. She'll be totting around here before too long. How weird will it be to see such a lil midget walking?!

An important disclaimer!

2008-08-22T09:17:00.001-07:00

Regarding Shout Color Catchers: While I have in the past done my colors and whites together, and still do with Amaya and Kendal's clothes pretty often, and have never had any bleeding mishaps, I still never do my whites with colors... just in case. I continue to separate my clothes into darks/colors/whites but always throw in a catcher, and I really do put all of my colors in one load. So, if you put your whites in, you will probably be ok, but if you have enough whites to make a load all it's own, that'd be my suggestion.
I will not be held responsible for anyone's ruined clothing. :)

Some randoms....

2008-08-21T22:24:00.000-07:00

1.) I love these

Choc-colossal Crunch. Yum. And believe me, I was also a skeptic when my self-proclaimed-cereal-expert sister told me they were delicious. After all, she did also recommend Reese's Puffs. Who eats candy bar flavored cereal first thing in the morning? My sister Brookann.

But alas, they are delish. Try them, And before you roll your eyes at my lack of nutritional discretion, these babies have fewer cals than many of my "health cereals," which is basically code for not as good tasting cereal.

2.) I love these:

If you are doing laundry without these, you are doubling your work load! I do Amaya's laundry all in one load. Yup, one load of whites, red, blue, pink, pink, pink and these beauties catch anything that bleeds.

3.) I do not love this:

I am all about being environmentally friendly, which is why I bought this in the first place, but not at the cost of my hygiene, or my smell! I am seriously thinking it is leaving my clothes smelling musty... not at all the fresh, lavender smell it boasts. I can't figure out what else it could be. You know the smell when you leave your clothes in the wash too long? Sorta that smell, except that I'm not leaving them in too long, and I do a bleach load every 3-4 clothing loads, so I know it's not my washer. What else could it be? Has anyone else tried this? Same result? Is it just me and my crazy blood hound-esque sniffer?!

Oh, and if you thought you were safe in the ocean...

2008-08-19T15:04:00.001-07:00

You were wrong! These nightmares live underwater. There is no escape!

If you find me crying in the fetal position...

2008-08-19T14:26:00.001-07:00

A preface to my story: I. HATE. SPIDERS.

Honestly, they are my biggest fear. If you were to look up arachnophobia in the dictionary, it would likely have my full name and date of birth. They scare the living piss out of me. I literally have nightmares about finding a spider on my baby and being paralyzed with fear.

So, the other night, in the dim glow of the tv light I was picking up the little pieces of paper things that wind up on my floor a thousand times a day, thanks to Amaya and Kendal, partners in crime. I reached down to pick up some unidentified thing, and IT MOVED! Oh, Mother of all things holy- I just touched a living spider! Living! I can't even touch dead ones. I jump back 20 feet onto the safety of the bed immediately. Amaya is just staring at me like I"m crazy, saying it's ok Mom, and Joe is laughing at my patheticism. He finally gets up and picks the spider up with a tissue, and tries to tell me that it was already dead. Um...last I checked, living things don't move. So, yes it was close to dying, thanks to man's greatest invention-pesticide. Jake, my hero (and bug man) sprays that ingenious liquid all over my house once a month, religiously. But still, it moved, and it was alive and I touched it.

I have heard that one way to overcome your fears is to face them, slowly immerse yourself with them. May I just say that I whole heartedly disagree? My spider anxiety is at an all time high, and I will no longer be picking up the floor in questionable lighting!

Here is an excerpt from the most disturbing website on the web:

Did you know that in seven years if you get bitten by a Wolf spider, you could have no arm left because the wound from its bite eats a centimetre of skin every month and there is NO medicine for the bite. Not all bites cause this reaction, some have been recorded from Black House spiders as well.

Joe realized the full extent of my fear a short time after we were married:

I was showering in his mother's basement, and when I stepped out of the shower there was an enormous wolf spider across the room. Naturally I am paralyzed with fear, not that I could have run out screaming and crying anyway, seeing as I was stark naked. But nor could I step on it- no shoes. And shoes or not, I've never been able to get close enough to step on a spider. So I grabbed the gel on the counter next to me, and started squirting as much of it as I possibly could, creating a thick pool of goo that was slowing that nasty 8 legged monster down. I kept squirting till he was stuck, and then I grabbed the blow dryer and nuked him...all from a comfortable distance away.... and then I left the mess. Joe came home from work to find a glob of crusty, semi-hardened gel with a dark spot in the middle. All I had to say was "spider" and he understood.

Like Mother, like Daughter

2008-08-19T12:53:00.000-07:00

So, it's possible that I have a slight infatuation with shoes. But I was still a little surprised when my 2 year old thought the world might end if she didn't get to take these beauties home from the Children's Place! She was sitting down, putting them on before I was even able to make it to the back of the store, and the second she had them on, there was no turning back. She kept begging and saying how beautiful they were and how Daddy would just love them.... I have felt that way myself a time or two over a pair of shoes, so how could I tell her no? In fact, the first gift Joe ever gave me was a pair of Steve Maddens I had been coveting... that's when I knew he was a keeper! At least she has good taste!

Am I just crazy....

2008-08-16T21:14:00.000-07:00

Or does anyone else think this guy looks like Ben Lowry?!

Squeeky Clean

2008-08-16T07:57:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite smells, hands down, is that of a freshly bathed, lotioned up babe.

Sweet Summer Days

2008-08-16T07:47:00.000-07:00

Our summer days last a little longer in these parts, which is great because I love summer. But it is just starting to cool ever so slightly an night. I can feel the cold energy on the horizon, and it is invigorating! We have the most perfect Falls- long and gentle.

I always worried this day would come...

2008-08-13T12:11:00.001-07:00

My child is officially the kid with the booger nose. Ugh. Her nose has been running non-stop, and she absolutely detests having her nose wiped! We have to pin her down, and endure glass-breaking, high-pitched, shrill screams that reach decibels in the damaging levels just to get one quick wipe. She is an oddity: either calm as a cucumber or madder than a wet hen; there just is no inbetween! And that is why we love her.

Dancing Queen

2008-08-12T18:02:00.000-07:00

We have decided to channel Amaya's energy into her love of dancing, and she had her first class last Tuesday. She and her little friend Tailor had a great time running and playing before class began. Amaya did great following the teacher, for the most part, although, she was also the ring leader of a couple revolts. She has been sneaking into her leotard everyday since class, and putting on private shows in our family room.

Curls and Girls

2008-08-10T21:06:00.000-07:00

Amaya's new thing of late is to beg me to put velcro rollers in her hair. Pretty funny, considering the result looks pretty much like her natural curl, but who am I to deny a girl her beautifying?

The result.

Kendal wanting to be just like her big sis... someday she'll have enough hair to actually get a curler in there!

And of course Pony has to be dolled up in curls as well.

Kendal is no under-study!

2008-08-05T19:29:00.000-07:00

Amaya is full of drama-antics, but Kendal is no spectator-only type of gal! She is just as much a show-stopping-diva as her older sister!

She's a Triple Threat

2008-08-02T23:09:00.000-07:00

She sings, she dances, and sometimes I wonder when she isn't acting!

4th of July

2008-08-02T22:02:00.000-07:00

What more could you ask for from a 4th of July Holiday than good people, good food and good times? The extended Eyre family all met up in Midway to celebrate, and the fun ensued! The weekend was full of activities: The Alpine Slide, shopping, riding the Heber Creeper, swimming, fireworks, hottubbing, and more!

Oh, I guess there is one more thing a person could ask for from the 4th of July- a decent parade! A note to the masses who may read this: Park City has the most pathetic excuse for a parade ever! Last I checked, parades were supposed to be a celebration of our country that include floats, clowns, music, dancers, bands, cheerleaders, and a plethora of candy! But apparently Park City didn't get the memo, and their only criterion for joining the parade was having a functioning car with a ribbon tied to the mirror and an advertisement on the door, or being capable of walking while wearing a patriotic-themed shirt. Come on... at least toss the kids a sucker!

Soap Box...

2008-08-01T07:44:00.000-07:00

Ok, ok! I'm off it!

New posts full of pics of my beauties, and void of politics or arguments soon to come... I see my last few posts are not going over so well. Apologies for now, but no promises on the future. It's my blog, I'll say/write what I want... but you don't have to read it! (Did I really just write that?! Wow, why do you guys even like me? Some things should just stay in my head, but as we all know, I often lack a filter. Sorry. But kind of not.) Cheers!

Who knew Chuck Norris had it in him?!

2008-07-31T13:34:00.000-07:00

This is very long, but poignant. Take a minute to read it. It was a gentle kick in the a--er-- bum, that I need to do better!

Jesse Jackson (on an off-air mic before "Fox & Friends") and Whoopi Goldberg (and another host on "The View") have raised the cultural language debate to a new level: Who has the right to say the N-word? Their answer: Blacks can, but whites can't. Unfortunately, this derogatory debate has degraded into Don Imus on steroids.
I agree with a lot that Whoopi had to say about the imbalances between the races. But I disagree with her for going off on an intentional N-word marathon, which was bleeped out repeatedly in order to demonstrate her point. There's a reason her diatribe was bleeped and our society still veils our full expression of the N-word: because it still is regarded by most as derogatory and demeaning. (Even among blacks, the N-word obviously can be defamatory, as Jesse Jackson proved when he used it in the same breath he used to describe how he would like to cut off Barack Obama's genitalia.)
This is more than a race issue and far more than a debate over freedom of speech. When will we learn that just because we can say something doesn't mean that we should? Once again, we're confusing liberty for licentiousness. It is a classic example of what happens when a society leaves its moral absolutes: Everything becomes culturally relative, with each deciding what's right in his own eyes. Language is one more infected arena in America's societal degradation.
Think about it. What word is nasty or unwholesome anymore? There are no "bad words." Words once considered evil are now terms of endearment. There's the B-word, the D-word, the A-word, the F-word, etc. Even bleeps are mere blips on America's moral radar screens. When ministers use G-- d--- in their sermons and moral activists threaten to cut off a presidential candidate's genitals and call him the N-word, can't we see the signs that we're heading in the wrong direction? We have become desensitized to everything, from profanity to pornography.
Today's America is certainly not the one in which I grew up during the '40s and '50s. Profanity of any sort was wrong back then and frowned upon by most in private or public use. Today profanity has become a positive form of expression, with studies even showing that it releases stress and boosts morale at the workplace!
I genuinely believe we can do better. I believe we must do better. We need to leave a better legacy of decency, civility and respect for future generations. I believe we need to give them our best, and our best must be more than justifying the use of derogatory language based upon cultural or racial relativity or even freedom of speech. If we're going to reverse negative trends among our youth, it's going to begin with us establishing a better model for them of how we treat and speak about others.
Whoopi proposed that we must find a "new way to move forward." I propose that that new way is not new at all, but an old way that has been discarded and forgotten. It is a way that simultaneously addresses equality, respect and decency. It is a way that was promoted by America's Founders and eventually resulted in increased unity and civility across the land. And it is also a way that I devote an entire chapter to in my upcoming book, "Black Belt Patriotism." The chapter's titled "Reclaim the value of human life." Here's a little of what I say in it:
"The Founders believed equality would give legs to freedom. As John Adams said, 'We should begin by setting conscience free. When all men of all religions … shall enjoy equal liberty, property, and an equal chance for honors and power … we may expect that improvements will be made in the human character and the state of society.'
"The Founders knew that America was not perfect. Slavery, in particular, troubled the consciences of many of them. … Nevertheless, our Founders believed there was something inherent in humanity that called it to a higher purpose. For all the shortcomings of early American society, the remedy was always there -- expressed in the founding documents of our nation. The Declaration of Independence set America's course. Though we have sometimes drifted from its highest principles, all Americans have ever had to do was steer by its compass to acknowledge or rediscover the inherent equality of slaves, women, the poor, Indians, and the unborn. All were -- and are -- children of God, endowed by their creator with 'certain unalienable rights.' …
"The Founders could not immediately abolish slavery. It was too entrenched in the economy of the South, but the Declaration eroded its foundations in a way that made its end inevitable. That 'all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights' is one of the most powerful principles ever enunciated in the history of politics."
And that power can be unleashed again to help us in our day. The sooner we get back to our Founders' words, our country's original calling, the sooner we will start treating one another (red, yellow, black and white) as our Founders' prescribed and the sooner we will get beyond these slanderous debates about language and humanity. It's time to grow up, America -- to move beyond the arguments of yesteryear. You're older than 200 now. It's time to act your age.

Cheap finds for all baby needs...

2008-07-28T11:12:00.000-07:00

Hey all... I was tipped off to this great website, thanks Ximena, called Baby Cheapskate. She is giving away 12 free bum genius cloth diapers for those who are trying to be more green. I thought I might try cloth diapers at home, not while on outings yet, just to see how it goes, and if it feels too unsanitary. That is my biggest concern. You know how I hate dirty stuff! Hey- if I win the drawing for free ones- I'll definitely give it a whirl!

She also lists the cheapest places to buy diapers, formula, toys, clothes and a bunch of other baby-related items, so check it out. There are usually printable coupons as well. Check it out, and what do you all think about cloth diapers?

Here is the give-away entry url:

http://babycheapskate.blogspot.com/2008/07/giveaway-12-bumgenius-30-diapers.html

Some wholesome morning goodness

2008-07-27T18:59:00.000-07:00

There is no better way to start the day than with Naked Orange Juice. It is 100% orange juice, has no added sugar, nor preservatives, and is like the nectar of the gods. The first time Amaya tasted it, she put the cup down and said "wow, I like this juice!" and you know it's true if it's coming from a 2 year old! Costco now sells it by the gallon for less than $7, which isn't much considering you'll spend roughly that for a gallon of Minute Maid. Try it once, I promise you'll never go back!

Oh, and all of Naked's smoothy options are also divine; try mighty mango, yum!

Pass us by, Father Time

2008-07-18T20:45:00.000-07:00

It was one of those rare moments, the house was quiet:

Amaya was asleep, Joe had just stepped out to run some errands, and I didn't have any unfinished business looming over my head. And then I heard a little wimpering from the nursery; the kind of fuss that I knew would be soothed by some comforting and holding. So I went into Kendal's room, picked up my sweet baby, who doesn't seem so babyish these days, and I held her, and rocked her, and rocked her, and rocked her. I sang to her, and I stared into her beautiful face as she stared back at me.

I tried to soak in her smell, the way she felt in my arms, her sweet cooing sounds, her expressions... all the things I haven't had the time to devour like I did when there was just the one.

I hope my memory can vividly recall these tender times when my babies are grown up. I hate that these days fly by, full of mundanes that tend to overtake the preciousness that passes before my eyes.

I love being a mommy. If only I could slow the hands of time...

Bumper cars!

2008-07-17T22:18:00.000-07:00

Amaya went on this ride 4 times in a row! (Thank heavens there were no lines). And now nobody will be surprised when they see Amaya cruising a beater of a mobile for her first car!