This is my life: 2008

Monday, December 29, 2008

The Tease

Dear Mom,
Remember when you said "I hope you get a child just like you." ( I don't really remember if you said that, but we'll just pretend for the moment) Well I did. Now I know what you have gone through. Except, it's kind of funny. It is actually a blessing to have one like me, because I know what makes her tick. The girl craves reactions . . . Big ones. Here is a sampling of some of the things she has done lately.

Every night after I put Amalie in her crib, as soon as I find sanctuary in my room, I hear in a cute sing-song voice "Noah poopy, Noah stinky!" She loves to rile Noah up! It doesn't matter what I do-I usually have Noah come outside the room and we close the door for a minute. And sure, she apologizes and it doesn't happen again . . . until the next night. It has become a bedtime ritual, and honestly it is hard not to laugh.

Then, the other day I was helping her get dressed in pajamas and she was having fun whipping around her pajamas - hitting Noah in the process. "Mom!" Noah complained.
"Don't hit Noah," I said sternly.
"Then I'm going to tease Momma," Amalie said with a twinkle in her eye, whipping me with the pajamas, all the while, a huge teasing smile on her face.

She also likes to say things like "I want to eat poop." The first time I freaked out, but now I have caught on. So instead I say "Oh, that's yucky," all nonchalant. She is starting to give up that one.

Last night I heard singing from the kids bedroom. My little one loves to make up songs. This one was sung sweetly, but the words were "Happy Birthday to Noah's butt." Yes, that was from my 2 year old! I guess that's what happens when you have an older brother who is in school. I went and asked her not to say naughty words and be gross and she said sweetly "Okay."
"Don't do it again, or I'll have to take away the cold covers," I warned.
"Okay," she said.

As soon as I was out of the room, she sang it again. The cold covers were put back in the closet and Amalie screamed bloody murder. I just have to laugh though. The girl has got spunk. She keeps things exciting in our house, that's for sure. If I can just steer that strong will towards good and light, then we are going to be allright!

Thank you for putting up with me and all of my antics. I will probably be calling for advice when the "moon becomes full over the dining room table" incident occurs.

Love your apologetic daughter,
Kate

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Oh. My. Goodness.

In the Snow

I'm old!

I was visiting with an older woman who just told me that she was 90 years old. I leaned down to Amalie and said "Did you know she's 90 years old?"

"No!" Amalie growled. "She's not old. I"M OLD!"

Sunday, December 21, 2008

Gingerbread Houses

Ian was soooo excited to make gingerbread houses!

For Family Home Evening, we went up to Ian & Serena's place to make gingerbread houses. It was sooo much fun! I decided to let my candy monger (Amalie) eat as much candy as she wanted while we decorated the gingerbread houses. I figured that way, she wouldn't eat the finished product and we could enjoy it . . . at least until the next morning.
But I was wrong! She ate candy consistently as I decorated the house. She was quite upset when I took one of "her" candies to put on the house. Once the houses were finished, we took pictures and then moved the houses to a different counter. About five minutes later, all four cousins were crowded around the gingerbread houses, eating. I'm not sure how Amalie fits so much in her stomach! She eats more than me at times! There is no way her stomach is bigger than mine! I just had to laugh. It was so crazy!
The next morning, I woke to graham cracker crumbs and icing sprayed all over the counter. The kids cleaned up the mess (with my prodding), but later in the day, the same mess was there again. Hmmmmm.
So the next day, I got out a sheet and laid it on the kitchen floor. I put the gingerbread house on the sheet and let them have at it. Once they were finished, I threw the remains in the trash. It was a great memory for them and a great way for me to have clean counters!
But then Noah came home from school a day later with another gingerbread house . . .made with delicious frosting that his mother could not resist. A day later, I confessed that I had snitched two candies and some frosting while he was at school. (And Mom, you probably thought I would stop stealing candy someday!)
"Do you forgive me?" I asked sweetly.
Noah glared at me. "Yes, but don't do it again." His face was still stern.
I tried not to laugh. " I won't," I promised.
I guess I only have myself to blame. They inherited it from their mother!

Alien!

"Mom, come quick! You gotta see my alien guy!" Noah exclaimed.
I walked in and saw this:

Pretty creative use for train tracks!

Awesome 80's Hair

Man, I wish I would have known this trick back in the day. All I did was put Ami's hair in three ponytails. I left them all day, then pulled them out before bed. Voila! Hot stuff!

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Brad & Kate Saga- Part One

Unedited Version

February 1999

I walked up the ramp to the Institute of Religion Building just across the street from the Community College. The glass double doors were my pathway to a safe haven. I breathed a sigh of relief and threw open the door. Standing right in front of me was a tall, dark haired guy with his hand extended.

“Hi, I’m Brad,” he said. He was wearing a button down polo and pleated corduroys.

I groaned inwardly. Oh no. I knew his type- acted friendly to all the girls and then dated a different one every weekend. I wasn’t going to be fooled by his good boy image. Nope. No thank you. I preferred scroungy surfer boys.

I shook his hand. “Hey, I’m Kate,” I replied casually. I gave a courteous smile, but did nothing to further the conversation.

I spotted my friend Russ and quickly excused myself. Russ invited me to his Religion class. Why not? I thought. I didn’t have any other classes. I was sitting in the second row, when Brad came in, gave me a nod and sat in front of me. Good, I thought. Maybe I had been wrong about him. A package of Grandma’s peanut butter cookies were sticking out of his pockets.
I should take them and see if he notices, I thought. Except then he’ll think I’m flirting.

So I didn’t.

At the end of class, a few of us stood around talking, including Brad. I got out some gum and offered it around. When I got to Brad, he hesitated. “It cleans your teeth,” I tempted. He accepted it with a laugh.

A few days later at the Valentine’s Dance, I saw Brad again. We both had dates, and said Hello. Brad was chewing gum, so I joked that it was the same piece I had given him several days earlier. He was friendly and kind, but nothing more. Hmmm. I guess he wasn’t exactly like I had thought.

The more I saw of him, the more I noticed how kind he was. He always opened doors for others. And whenever he talked to anyone, he gave them his full attention, like he really cared what they had to say. He was genuinely nice to everyone.
I started to crush on him. But the strange thing was; this was the first time I had a crush because of what I saw inside. I flirted with Brad, to no avail. Normally, this would stall me, but for some reason, this only deepened my desire. I would get him to ask me out!

One day, a group of us from the Institute of Religion went to a Convalescent Home to bring some cheer to the residents. We had been going from room to room, singing and talking with each person. In one room, we started talking enthusiastically with a woman lying in bed, only to find that she couldn’t understand us. She only spoke Spanish.

“Does anyone speak Spanish?” people around were asking.

“Brad’s coming,” I heard someone say. Of course, this caught my attention. I turned towards the window, to see Brad coming up the walk. We let him into the room and explained the situation. Brad went up to the old woman, took her hand and spoke gently to her in Spanish. I watched in amazement. This was the kind of man I wanted, gentle and tender. As we left the room, my friend linked arms with Brad. I felt a twinge of jealousy, even though my friend had a boyfriend and I knew she wasn’t interested. But still. I wanted to be the one linking arms with Brad.

I continued to seek out Brad, always receiving mixed signals. At times, he seemed genuinely interested, and other times, he seemed aloof. I didn’t know what to think. This was maddening!

One day, we stood talking in the parking lot. I asked how ice skating had gone the weekend before, and he said he’d had a good time. I assumed our conversation was through, so I crossed the parking lot and went to my car to retrieve a folder.

Brad yelled something after me. I turned, a puzzled look on my face, not quite understanding what he said. I wanted to yell “What?”, but it seemed a little awkward across a parking lot.

Then my brain registered.

“We should go sometime,” he had said.

I was about to answer with a "Yes, we should,” when Brad spoke again.

“Well, maybe with a group or something,” he said.

Dang it! He probably thought I didn’t want to! But what could I do?

“Yeah,” I said sadly, knowing the ice skating idea would never happen. But I was terrified to look desperate. What was I to say? “No, I want to be alone with you.” He would probably run the other direction. I consoled myself on the drive home with the thought: If it was meant to be, it will happen.

I continued to crush so hard, it was painful. Every time I saw him, my stomach would flip flop, and hope would spring into my heart. No matter what I did or how much I flirted and hinted, Brad never made a move. I couldn't bear it, but I also didn’t want to be the pursuer. That had never worked out well for me.

Finals loomed. I was determined to get A’s in all of my classes and studied like a mad woman. I spent every spare moment, making sure all my hard work throughout the semester would not be in vain. On the day of my Math Final, I walked with my brother and a friend to class. Brad sidled up beside us, and my brother, knowing of my crush, stepped out of the way, so I could be closer to Brad. But Brad was more interested in talking to my brother. My heart dropped at this realization. He obviously wasn't interested in me and the whole ice skating thing had been a weird fluke. This would be the last time I saw him as Institute was over and after my Finals, I would be done for the summer.

This was it. What could I do? If Brad wasn’t interested, there was nothing I could do to convince him.

Finals ended and I had achieved my goal. I got A’s in all of my classes, a first for me. A blessing from heaven, truly. It felt good, but I was sad that school was over. I would miss my friends from Institute. I had heard rumor that Brad would be going up to BYU for the summer, so I would probably never see him again.

About a week after school ended, my brother and I drove down for a friends Mission Farewell. Afterwards, we all drove down to the Institute of Religion, as it was going to be rededicated. It had been remodeled a year earlier. My parents drove down to meet us, as my Dad had been the architect on the project. I stood to conduct the Opening Song, when I noticed Brad sitting a few rows back. My heart raced. I took a deep breath and smiled at him, then quickly looked away before he could respond. I couldn’t stand the thought of being rejected, yet again.

After the dedication of the building was over, we all mingled, not wanting to say goodbye for the summer. My Mom wanted me to point out Brad as I had told her all about him. I waited and waited for an opportunity, but Brad was always talking to someone! I continued to linger, hoping to talk to him one last time. Finally I caught him and introduced him to my Mom. After chatting for awhile, she asked his last name.

“Strongin,” he answered.

Mom burst into laughter.

Oh my gosh. This was completely unlike my mom.

“When Kate was little, she used to have imaginary friends called Bongin and Fongin,” she explained.

Brad smiled politely, but I was completely embarrassed. What was he thinking?

A few of his friends came up, and he excused himself. Well, that was that. He would soon walk out the door and I would never see him again. I was so bummed! Why couldn’t he be interested in me like I was in him? Why?

My friend Adrian started playing the piano, and soon a few of us were gathered around, singing songs. My eyes searched the room as I sang. I loved being with my friends, but still couldn’t help wanting to be with Brad. Where was he? I finally spotted him talking to my friend Kendra.

An idea quickly formulated in my mind. Dad had brought the camera, and I wanted to take a few pics with my friends, so I would grab the camera and take pics with Kendra, and then casually invite Brad to be in the photo. Then at least I would have a picture of my crush.
I left the piano immediately, hoping Brad would continue talking to Kendra. Everything fell into place and I got my picture! It was amazing. Brad and I talked, as I wondered why he didn’t ask me out. He did it once, why not again? I had tried to give hints and clues. But I was not about to outright ask him. My pride wouldn’t let me. But this whole ‘if it was meant to be, it will happen’ stuff was driving me crazy! I wasn’t waiting any longer.

I could at least help it along . . .

To BE Continued

Today is my ninth Wedding Anniversary to Brad. As I look back, I realize the goodness of God in putting Brad into my life. I prayed countless times for a wonderful young man to come into my life. I had always been taught that I should be prayerful about the one I marry. I am so grateful I listened to that counsel. The longer I have been married to Brad, the more I rejoice in God's wisdom.

Many of you who know us, probably have thought to yourself "Wow, how did they get together. They have nothing in common."

True, we are very different. We do not enjoy most of the same music or hobbies, or even sense of humor. But when it comes to spiritual things and family, everything I want in a man is there. I am so glad that I had guidance from my Heavenly Father in picking an eternal companion. I know if I had been left to my own judgement, I would not be happy now. Heavenly Father knew what I needed and mercifully blessed me with my sweet Brad.

I am also grateful for eternal families. Brad and I were married in the Temple, and for those of you who don't know much about the Temple, I will tell you this: It is a place where a husband and wife can be sealed together as a couple FOREVER. Families and children can be united, so that after death, we will still be a family. I believe that if we will keep all God's commandments and endure to the end, we can have these tremendous gifts.

I am so grateful for this on my anniversary.

Reflections of Christ

I just saw this amazing slideshow this morning for the first time. Mark Mabry has these beautiful photographs depicting Christ's life as we know it from the New Testament.

I was deeply touched as I watched, because the photographs make it seem so real and present in my mind. I believe in Christ with all my heart and I know He lives!

Here is the link: http://deseretbook.com/reflections/

I think my favorites are the one of Mary sleeping with the baby Jesus, while Joseph looks on. And the one of John and Jesus hugging after being baptized. So awe inspiring!

Monday, December 15, 2008

Bathtime Buddies

Parenting Ideas that I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!

I love, love, love practical advice. I know all the basics I need to do, but sometimes I don't quite know the exact way to achieve them. This parenting stuff really throws me for a loop, every time my children go through different stages, it is hard for me to adapt to change. But through six years, I have found some things that have helped me immensely! That is why I decided to write down some parenting ideas that I love.

1. Every Sunday, we try to have Noah dictate a short journal entry. I sit at the computer and type, while Noah rattles off things that are important to him, or fun things that happened. My sister, Amy told me about this idea and I love it! She said that her kids are getting better at expressing themselves the longer they do this. I have tried it with Noah and he absolutely loves it! It is fun for me, because I learn a lot more about him- things that happened and what matters most to him.

2. Natural Consequences- This is one thing my Mom has always taught me about. Punishments or consequences, should be natural. For example, a child spills milk, they clean it up. I had been struggling lately with the kids fighting. I asked my Mom what she did to help her six children- sure, we fought occasionally, but we just loved (still do) each other. I want that!!

She said that she talked to us constantly about being friends with each other and loving one another. That seemed a little too simple, and I doubted that it would work, but being desperate, I tried it and it has made a big difference.

Then I felt like I should have some natural consequences. So, whenever, the kids do something unkind, they have to go to time out and think about how they can repair the relationship. They stay until they are ready to make up. After a "Sorry" and a hug and a kiss, they do a few acts of service, so the sibling can trust them again and know that they are still loved. At this age, they do simple things, like share a favorite toy, Noah will make Amalie's bed, or bring her favorite blanket to her. As they have served each other, I have seen their love for one another grow. It is amazing!

It has been working so well! I am so grateful that as I have prayed for heavenly help, I have received it! The kids relationship has been improving so much. I also stress that they are brother and sister FOREVER, even when they are old and gray and Noah has a long white beard, even after they die. I also keep telling them that brothers and sisters are like built in best friends!

3. A couple years ago, I was getting so sick of the tv being turned on by Noah. Now, our rule is, you may watch, but only if you are dressed, had breakfast, bed made and done three chores! (For Amalie it is one chore) Now that he is used to the rules, he rarely complains. And he gets those chores done FAST! It's great! I have gotten so that anytime they are about to have a reward, I think to myself, "Now what can I get out of it?" The other day they asked for hot chocolate. I said "Sure, after we clean the downstairs!" Ha Ha Ha. It's great! (There are times when it's not worth it to Noah, but hey, at least the tv is not on!)

4. Working Together- Denise Ferrin talked to me about this one. If you want your kids to work, work alongside them. Then I remembered the times I enjoyed cleaning the most as a kid, were when we did a "Team Clean." My Mom would set the timer for a half hour, or whatever, and we would all work our hardest during that time. It was nice to know there was an end in sight. It has been great. Noah is much more willing to work, when I am by his side, and we are getting it done together. We turn on some music and clean. Granted, it takes a lot longer, but I am learning that my first priority is to teach Noah to work, not to have a spotless house.

5. Kids can be such picky eaters at times, and it annoys me to no end. Finally, we implemented the "If you don't eat your dinner, you get nothin' but water" rule. Too bad, so sad. I don't save their food, and have them eat it the next day, but only because I know I won't remember! We tried that and I always forgot. But I just give them small portions. If I know we are having a dinner they don't particularly like, I give them a tiny snack earlier (like six pretzels) and they are usually starving for dinner. The downside is that you have cranky, whiny kids while you are making dinner, but they eat it all! (Of course, like all things, it took a few weeks before they realized we were serious!) I am a big believer that normal functioning kids will not starve themselves. Eventually they will eat!

Believe me, I know all families are different and have various needs. What works for me, may not work for your fam. But I think that in sharing, we could possibly all benefit.

Now, please share with me the things that work for your family! I am always looking for more ideas!

Overheard on the phone

Noah was talking on the phone to Papa and Bubby, when I heard him say "Can you just give me one or two presents so I won't get spoiled?"

I laughed to myself, because the day before Noah had heard Brad and I saying how we wanted our kids to only get a few presents, so they wouldn't be spoiled on Christmas. It was so sweet that he actually wanted to please us, his parents.

Then Noah went on "Well, maybe three or four or five." Pause. "Or six or seven or something. Just not ten or twelve."

I guess he could only hold back for so long.

Oh, Noah, you are so stinking cute! I just love you!

Sunday, December 7, 2008

Mommy?

Dancin' Dancin'

Papa and Bubby sent the kids this "Jingle Dogs" cd. This was the first time they listened to it. Can you tell they loved it?

Thanks Papa and Bubby!!

Sunday, November 30, 2008

Letter

Dear Noah,
We had a sweet teaching moment with you today. Earlier in Sunday School, our class had talked about keeping the Sabbath Day holy. I realized that I have not been doing my job as a parent and teaching you that the Sabbath is not about all the things you can't do, but more about spiritually renewing yourself and worshipping God with all your heart. Lately, whenever you realize it is Sunday, you have gotten really upset and said "I'm not going to church" or "I hate Sunday!" I realize that I need to help you realize all the wonderful things we can do on Sunday.

So we determined that we would fill a whole lined sheet of paper with things we can do on Sunday that would help us keep the Sabbath Day holy. Here are some of the things you came up with:
-Tell Jesus Stories
-Make a movie about the scriptures and give it to someone anonymously. I said, "But don't you think they will know it's us when they see us on the movie?" Your response was "Oh."
-Call your family and tell them you love them
-Make Valentines treats to give away, maybe cupcakes
-Look at the clouds and see if one looks like Jesus.
-Visit someone who is blind and we can give them a book about the earth so they will know about it
-Tell a story in your journal

You were very excited to fill the page with great ideas. I love that you are so sweet and innocent and wonderful. I hope this helps us in the future and that you will look forward to Sundays.

Love,
your Mom

Family Picture

I've always wondered what I would look like as an M&M, and now I know- so cute! Brad and I thought a family photo op would be appropriate. M&M has a "Create your Character" on their website and so we had a little fun. (Yep, I am great at wasting time!)

Learning to Laugh

I recently prepared a lesson on Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin's talk from General Conference (he is an apostle in our church and General Conference is held twice a year when our prophet and apostles speak to the world) It was called "Come What May and love it." It really touched my heart because the point was that we can be happy even through our toughest trials. I loved this quote:

"If we approach adversities wisely, our hardest times can be times of greatest growth, which in turn can lead toward times of greatest happiness."

Then he gave some steps to help us do that:

1. Learn to Laugh

2. Seek the eternal

3. Understand the principle of compensation (the Lord compensates the faithful for every loss in His own way)

4. Trust in the Father and the Son

So I was thinking that I need to work on learning to laugh at the little frustrations that happen everyday in life. I am not good at that. And I pondered it for awhile, not knowing how to change. How do I just laugh it off? For some, like my sister Amy, it seems to come easy, she just laughs and takes pictures. And now that I have a blog, it is slightly easier. But still, I get really stressed when things don't work out the way I want them to.

Of course as life goes, I was tested that very day. Most of you know Noah, and you know he is NOT a mischevious boy. He rarely gets into things he shouldn't. And then yesterday, Noah came downstairs wanting to show me his "secret recipe". He had a medicine cup full of white goo- and there was definitely some Aquafresh toothpaste in there. I ran upstairs to his lab (or rather my bathroom) to find ten or more bottles sitting on the counter, obviously a part of his secret recipe. Shampoo, conditioner, my nice lotion, my nice shampoo, toothpaste, bodywash, facial wash, facial scrub. Then to top it all off, the floor was covered with Kix cereal.

I lost it! I started yelling and demanded that he clean the mess up and that he pay me $2 for compensation and do ten extra chores. Then I lectured him about how expensive all those products were and how we didn't have money to replace them and even if we did, how dumb that would be, etc, etc, etc.

I went back downstairs, chest heaving, heart beating, feeling frustrated and slightly guilty, but not knowing how to change. I prayed half heartedly. Ten minutes later I went to check up on him and find that he had smeared soap all over Amalie's head and Amalie is screaming. Nothing is cleaned up. More yelling and more lecturing occured. And I continued to feel guilty, but justified myself inside, putting the blame on my little Noah.

Later, he said, "Mom, I got out the pen marks on the door with my secret recipe." And of course, I felt bad- really he wasn't trying to upset me. He was even trying to do something good. But of course I lectured him again on the dangers of mixing chemicals.

I realized that I must laugh these little incidents off.

I thought of President Monson (The Prophet and President of our church) and his beautiful talk about "Finding Joy in the Journey."

"If you are still in the process of raising children, be aware that the tiny fingerprints that show up on almost every newly cleaned surface, the toys scattered about the house, the piles and piles of laundry to be tackled will disappear all too soon and that you will—to your surprise—miss them profoundly.
Stresses in our lives come regardless of our circumstances. We must deal with them the best we can. But we should not let them get in the way of what is most important—and what is most important almost always involves the people around us. Often we assume that they must know how much we love them. But we should never assume; we should let them know. Wrote William Shakespeare, “They do not love that do not show their love.”3 We will never regret the kind words spoken or the affection shown. Rather, our regrets will come if such things are omitted from our relationships with those who mean the most to us."

Thank goodness for little children who forgive so easily and love us with their whole hearts. We did eventually make up, and I am trying to laugh it off. I never want to look back and have regrets- I want to know that I did my best as a mother and that no matter what choices my children make when they are grown and gone, I did everything to teach them the way to eternal happiness.

*If you are so willing, please share your thoughts of how you shake it off, laugh it off and just enjoy each moment with your children.*

Sunday, November 23, 2008

Can you take a picture of me?

It was midnight and I was finally trying to fall asleep. I have a horrible habit of staying up WAY too late, trying to get in more kid free hours. I could hear Amalie coughing occasionally. I felt a pang of sadness for my poor, sick girl. She continued to cough and started to cry, it was a dry, hoarse cough and it sounded like it hurt, so I got up and brought her into bed with me. My not so touchy feely daughter is only snuggly when sick or tired, so I had to take advantage of the situation. I snuggled her close, thinking she would quickly go back to sleep and then I would put her back in her crib, but Amalie had other ideas. She started talking non-stop. She was saying this and that and the next thing I know she says, "Can you take a picture of me?"

Huh?

Um, okay. So, Brad got out the camera and here it is. Can you see her rosy red cheeks- this is how she looks with a fever, poor thing.

Geode Hunting

Last month Noah went with Brad on a Scout trip to hunt for geodes. They saw beautiful wild horses along the way. They brought back a huge bucket of rocks. Brad borrowed a tile saw and cut the rocks open and then polished them. Aren't they amazing?

I feel the Love

My parents and I at the temple.

Alfalfa and I at the temple.

Game night at Ian and Serena's.

My Mom and Amalie. (Yes, Amalie is eating a banana off a butter knife)

We had a saying in my house that stemmed from my youngest brother Seth. I don't remember the exact circumstances, but I do remember that one time when he was 4 or 5, he said "I don't feel the love." My Mom turned that into a teaching moment for us children and since then I have stopped to recognize if I am feeling the love or if I am expressing myself in ways that other people feel my love.

Well, let me just say, Mom and Dad, I feel the love! Just to let the rest of you in on this, I have been asking my parents to come visit for a few months now. I really miss my family, but I am not in a position to travel down to visit them. They are extremely busy (especially my Dad who is Bishop of his ward- think Pastor, but without pay) and so on my birthday, they announced that they were coming up to visit me!

I felt overwhelmed with love that even now, when I am a grown adult, they recognize that I still need them- their friendship, advice, unconditional love. They have always taken us seriously when we ask them for time together. My kids were as excited as I was, if not more. When they got here, a week ago, my kids were clamoring for attention and climbing all over them. By the end of the four day visit, Amalie begged them to take her home with them.

We filled those four days full to brimming and just enjoyed every moment together. My brother, Ian and his wife Serena are also up here, so our three families were together every day. The cousins loved it.

Saturday, we had the brilliant idea of getting babysitters and attending the Temple together as couples and then we had lunch afterwards. It was heavenly without the children! We will definitely be doing that a lot more often.

We stayed up late, sacrifcing our health for time together. My body couldn't take it anymore, so the night before they left, I got really sick. But it was worth it! Thank you Mom and Dad. And thank you Ian and Serena for letting us crash at your place!

Friday, November 21, 2008

Things I Love about Winter

The view from my window- January 2006

Though it may seem from the title that I love winter, in truth I don't. It is not that I don't like the snow or the beauty of the snowy mountains or the frigid, dry air, (oh wait, I don't like the frigid dry air) it is more that I know I will not be able to really play outside until April! The winters here are SOOOOO long. Which is why I need to accent the positive. (Basically, I'm trying to convince myself. Let's see if it works!)

1. Snow- I had only seen snow a grand total of TWO times before I moved up here. And let me tell you, the snow I played in before does not compare one iota to fresh, powdery snow. Oh, it is heavenly to wake up to a world blanketed in snow, before anyone has disturbed the fresh powder, it is beautiful and peaceful. I love to see tree branches rimmed with the white sparkly ice.

2. Snow at night is awesome! Let me tell you why. Snow reflects light, so when you are outside at night, there is a glow that seems surreal. It is like the world is lit up like a stage.

3. What other time can you sip hot chocolate daily? And may I recommend Stephen's brand. It's the best- super chocolaty and rich. Its like a warm massage-the way it slides down your throat, warming you from head to toes. Love it! (Chocolate Mint, Amaretto, Chocolate orange, Belgian chocolate, all delicious!)

4. Snuggling up under the covers and reading a good book. Aaah. I love to be slightly cold and have to burrow under my covers for warmth. So cozy.

5. Oh to be a child again! I love to see the wonder and excitement on my little one's faces after the first REAL snowfall (meaning the first that actually sticks!) It brings back my own memories of when my family visited Washington when I was just a girl, and we prayed for it to snow, we wanted to see it, play in it, taste it. And it did. Small, tiny flakes that didn't stick, but we were thrilled!

6. Christmas! I love the real meaning of Christmas. I love that we celebrate the birth of Christ, our Savior! What a wonderful time of year that we remember the greatest gift that He gave us.

7. I just saw an ad for ABC Family- every December they show Christmas movies all month long. I looked at the programming and this will be the best year yet! Tons of fun holiday movies. I will just have to curl up under my fuzzy blanket, hot chocolate in hand. Mmmm. One of my coziest memories was when I was a teenager and we had a wood fire going in our fireplace (back then I would not have had to specify that it was an actual fire with logs!)and it was a cold day in December. I lay in front of the fire, feeling the warmth, and fell asleep. I woke up so blissfully happy.

8. Have you ever seen a real snowflake? They are the most exquisite pieces of work. They are so incerdibly tiny, but shaped symmetrically and each so different. It's hard to believe that comes from nature. It makes me stand in wonder of all of God's creations, they are so brilliant and beautiful.

NOAA Photo Library
Wilson Bentley, a Vermont farmer, took photographs of snowflakes under a microscope as a hobby. These photographs were published in the "Monthly Weather Review" in 1902.

9. Snowball fights are the BEST! Especially when I am hitting someone else. Gotta love it!

Well, I think I succeeded. I am very happy to have Winter come knocking at my door. Especially since today was a gorgeous sunny day, not too cold. And as long as I don't have to be tramping through snow every day, or driving on black ice, it's all good!

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Inventive Noah

Some of my best memories of growing up were not from toys, but instead from the games that my sisters and I made up. I remember playing "grocery store" with my siblings, using old cereal boxes and any other food items we could scrounge up. We would take turns being customer and cashier and exchange fake money (round leaves from our eucalyptus tree) and "bag" the groceries. Being a cashier seemed so glamorous back then. It was so fun, using our imaginations and pretending. I sometimes think the toys we have nowadays leave little room for imagination and hope I am not stifling my children.

However, Noah has proved to be the inventive type- and even though he has a whole closetful of toys- more toys than any kid should ever have, he still gets bored by them and wants to make up games of his own. Especially now that it has been colder and Mom doesn't want to take him outside to play, his games have been of the active type.

Just a week ago, I put on a cd with pop music and that really got his adrenalin going. Both of my kids are really into music and it just energizes them. He made up a game of climbing up the back of the banister, and then jumping onto a pile of couch cushions. He did this over. And over. And over again. He would yell "I infinity and thee on." It was quite funny until Brad ruined it by telling him it was "To infinity and beyond!" (From Toy Story) It was actually quite fun to watch him perch at the edge of the stairs, and fly through the air, flopping onto the pillows! I just had to try it and yep it was fun!

He also made up another game that I am somewhat hesitant to try, even though it looks ridiculously fun. He sits toward the back of my body pillow, pulls the front up and over his legs, making a handle for steering and rides it like a sled, down our steep stairs. If you have ever been to our place, you would know that our stairs are right in front of the door. So, it reminded me of Kevin in Home Alone, when he sledded down the stairs and out the door! (I thought that movie was so cool back in the day) I will have to try it someday and let you know how it turns out!

Then tonight, he informed me that he felt like exercising and he wanted some hard music to work out to. Well, I think he meant angry rock, and obviously I am so not into that. So I put on the closest thing I've got- The Cranberries. Noah loved it and was using my two pound weights, doing crunches and pushups. He was working hard! It was so funny! Especially because I haven't worked out regularly for awhile. I guess with his memories of when I used to always take him with me to work out and with his PE class, he was ready to roll. What a blessing he is in my life. My joy is full watching these two little ones grow up and discover the world.

Date Night with Brad

Hmmm. Maybe we shouldn't have gotten the ribs.

Sunday, November 2, 2008

The Best Day Ever

Remember when you were a little kid and you woke up on your birthday so excited and thrilled for that special day? Well that's what my birthday was like. It was amazing! I was raised by parents who put first priority on Birthdays- that was our day- they didn't necessarily shower us with presents, but instead with Love. I still remember how loved I felt on my birthdays- all my sisters and brothers would pick out "presents" for me (candy bars) and Mom would make a dinner of our choice. She would say throughout the day, "I'm so glad you were born!" and hug me and treat me as though I were her favorite child. (Coincidentally, the rest of my siblings have said they always felt they were her favorite child! Although she always claimed she loved us equally.) She had a knack for making time for each of her children and making sure we knew we were loved unconditionally.

Brad has learned through the years how I feel loved and so my B-day was just incredible!

It started by sleeping in. You have to realize that I only get to sleep in about once a month, so this was a HUGE treat! I woke up to complete quiet and solitude. It was nice to wake up slowly and be able to THINK. I took my sweet time saying my prayers, which was lovely. I felt so grateful to have a body and have this mortal experience. Grateful I was born 31 years ago!

Brad and Amalie brought me breakfast in bed. Pancakes and fresh icy grape juice. Mmmm. Followed by a piece of cake with flaming candles from Noah.

Later, Brad and I went out on a hot date! (Thanks Ian & Serena for watching the kids!!) We love our dates- we have been a lot better at taking the time to actually GO OUT! It has made a huge difference in our lives.

We ate lunch at Chili's- Yum! (Thanks Mom & Dad!) I had yummy steak and chicken quesadillas, and Brad had a hamburger and shake (He's a hamburger man). Then the Chili's staff sang to me and brought me a shot glass with chocolaty dessert.

My favorite part of the day was canoeing down the Provo River and into Utah Lake. The fall colors of the trees overhanging the river were spectacular. The water had a soothing effect and I could feel myself relaxing, by the end it was as if I'd had a massage- I was that relaxed. I sat back, enjoying the beautiful scenery. We made it down to the lake, which was stunning. It was the first time I've ever been able to enjoy the beauty of Utah Lake. Usually you have to pay a fee to get into the park, so we never go. It is gorgeous, surrounded by mountains, blue skies, with clusters of reeds scattered throughout. I laid back and looked up at the sky while Brad rowed me around- it was wonderful! (Even better than kayaking in Hawaii!)

We played Rockband that night with friends and Serena made me the most decadent and delicious brownie dessert. It was covered with Snickers, chocolaty peanut butter and caramel. Yum! Ian and Serena topped it off by sending us home with tons of goods.

I felt so loved and had the best day! It was so wonderful to celebrate my coming to earth. Thanks everyone!

Halloween, Halloween, Trick or Treat

Amalie had her choice of costumes and decided on the dragon! So cute.

The whole family dressed up! From L-R (Fireball Mario, Florence Nightingale, Patricia the Magic dragon, "Not Brad")

Mario with his loot. He had fun filling his "vending machine" with the candy.

Isn't Halloween such a funny holiday? Some people think it gives them license to be gruesome and gory, when otherwise they wouldn't be. (I personally do NOT like that element of Halloween) It's also funny that we teach our kids to never take candy from strangers and then we take them around the neighborhood to do just that! Crazy, but ridiculously fun too.

Noah had the best time trick or treating with his best buds Eli & Cole. He had an equally fun time passing out candy. We ran out, and without us even asking, he gave away his own candy. He loves to give to others. What a fun night we had!

Friday, October 31, 2008

Mario & Mario

Don't you just love my little Marios? I just want to squeeze them. Last year, Noah was Super Mario, this year he wanted to be Fireball Mario- you know when Mario eats the flower and warps into the Red Overalled Mario who can shoot fireballs? So fun. As I was drawing on Noah's mustache this morning, Amalie begged for one. I told her I would give her one if she dressed up like Mario. So here it is!
*Note to Ian* No, this was not my idea, even though I LOVE Mario, this was all their idea!

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

The Divine Institution of Marriage

My parents told me about this beautiful statement from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. It is a must read- it is beautifully written and with clarity all can understand where we stand on the topic of Marriage. It is perfect in light of the November 4th election for Proposition 8, which if passed will mean an amendment to the CA State Constitution that marriage is between a man and a woman.

With all the confusing information and frustration about the ramifications, this was so comforting to my soul.

Here is the link:
http://newsroom.lds.org/ldsnewsroom/eng/commentary/the-divine-institution-of-marriage

I loved this last paragraph:
The final line in the Proclamation on the Family is an admonition to the world from the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve: “We call upon responsible citizens and officers of government everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society.” This is the course charted by Church leaders, and it is the only course of safety for the Church and for the nation.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Busted

Noah had invited a friend over and was getting restless waiting. He asked me, "How much longer?" and I told him, "Any minute."

After he asked me this several more times in the next five minutes, and accused me of lying (because apparently "any minute" means NOW), I finally suggested he wait outside. He and Amalie went out on the front porch to wait. I was cleaning the kitchen and took the opportunity to "sneak" one of Amalie's potty treats-peanut M& M's that we keep in a glass jar. We had given up potty treats a month ago, but lately Amalie has been resistant, and so after several accidents, I resorted to "positive incentives".

Suddenly the kids came bounding in the door- running so fast as if someone were chasing them. They looked like little dogs being let outside after a day of being cooped up in the house. They stumbled into the kitchen, bumping into one another.

"What happened?" I asked with concern. I was a little afraid that they had been scared somehow, maybe by some dogs or creepy people.

"We heard the M&M's," Noah said . "Why were you getting them out?"

Oops. Busted. That darn glass jar gave me away! From now on, I am putting the treats in a soundproof container.

Thursday, October 23, 2008

It's finally Fall

I love Fall! It's funny what I used to think Fall was growing up in So. Cal. Because it's nothing like the bright, vibrant colors up here. If you ever want to visit Utah, you must come in the Fall- the colors are amazing. It makes me so happy to be alive and have a body and live in this beautiful place! Reds, golds, delicious dark purple, browns, yellows, every autumn hue you see. So what are you waiting for? Come visit me!! (Yes Mom, Dad and Amy- I mean YOU!)

Dog Ears

Amalie had been wearing a hat over her ponytails, so when she took it off, they looked like droopy dog ears. So cute!

Backpack, Backpack

Amalie has been wearing Backpack for the last three days. I love it! She looks so cute toting around her backpack that is filled with train tracks, magnets and her Hello Kitty book. She wants to be just like big brother and go to school.

Fun at the Park

Noah's sweatshirt on a statue - A Brad Original

Don't I look like a snob in this picture? I hope I don't look like this all the time.

Did you know that the city I live in has over 100 parks? Seriously! Isn't that crazy? And most that I have been to are beautifully manicured and have great playgrounds. For a family on a tight budget, we love this! We tried out a new park for our weekly Family Outing and we loved it. It was near the River Trail and had lots of gorgeous, tall, old trees encompassing it. I love living here, especially in the fall.

Crazy Hair

I was a bit of a tomboy growing up, so I never really learned to do hair. While the rest of the girls were jumping rope and braiding each others' hair, I was playing dodgeball with the boys. That was back when they called me "Killer Kate." But I digress. So, now that I have a little munchkin of my own, I am having fun experimenting with hair. I am still not great at it, but little by little I am getting better. I decided to go crazy and put three itty bitty buns in Amalie's hair and by the end of the day when I took them out . . . this was what Amalie looked like! So funny to see her fine, straight hair all crazy!!

Monday, October 20, 2008

California Prop 8 in plain english

I have to admit, I was really confused when I first heard about Proposition 8. I just brushed it aside since I don't live in California anymore and it was all so confusing. But my family lives in California and they have been telling me that the Church is actually stepping in (which they rarely do in political situations) and asking members of the Church to help fight for Prop. 8 to pass.

I realized I needed to know what side I stood on, so as I have prayed about and studied the issue, I have gained a conviction that IF this Proposition does not pass, our society will be deeply and detrimentally affected.

I didn't know what to do to help. Here I am in Utah, what can I do? But then my Mom pointed out that there are a lot of people and friends that I have from California. So, I am asking you to educate your friends and family that live in California. Help them to understand the ramifications that will occur if this Prop does not pass. We already have proof since Massachusetts has had same sex marriage legalized for several years now.

Pass this video along for any who are unclear on the issue!

Vote YES to Preserve Marriage & Families!!

Sunday, October 12, 2008

Parenting Chronicles

I had an epiphany lately in regards to parenting Noah. Lately, I have felt that I have been really hard on him and that I harp on him constantly. I expect a lot from him, as he is such an intelligent, coordinated, capable boy. I often lose my patience and get frustrated because I know he is not living up to his potential. So we were caught in a vicious cycle of him not obeying and me criticizing and getting frustrated.

One night, I prayed that I would be better. The next day I found myself harping on Noah again and losing my patience. So, I had to re-evaluate what I needed to do. I knew that I needed to pray specifically - so again I went to my loving Father in Heaven and tried to humble myself before Him and be willing to be the kind of parent He wants me to be. I recognized that I am a huge part of the problem, and that I need to change. I prayed for patience and the ability to recognize when Noah is working hard and really trying. ( I often expect him to perform as well as me!) I also prayed to love Noah unconditionally, which is SO hard to do!

So, on Saturday, I was ready to change- to be more patient and accepting of where he is- we started the day with Noah wanting to do chores to earn money. So I set him to work- he earns 5 cents per chore and is allowed to earn 25 cents per day. He started out well, and quickly did one chore. The next he took a break in the middle, saying his hands were too cold- normally I would get really upset and demand that he finish- but I didn't. I held my tongue and let him snuggle in a blanket for a few minutes and then told him I would put the timer on and he had five more minutes to finish his chore and earn the money. He complied and I felt that I should really show him love through my praise. I praised instead of criticized and I watched as he changed before my eyes. The next chore he worked even harder- he scrubbed my table so long, I had to tell him it was enough- I praised again - and he glowed. Then he did an extra chore of his own accord! I was astonished! Was this the same boy who normally I cannot get to do things?

He finished his chores, all the while hugging me and smiling and happy. I gave him a 5 cent tip and rewarded him for his efforts to show my appreciation.

As I thought about this later, my heart swelled, realizing that my Father in Heaven had answered my prayers. Noah is His son, created by Him, and who better to ask for help? It was amazing to me, that Noah was not the one who needed to change, it was me. As soon as I stopped harping and started to praise the good- and really see him for who is and what his abilities are, I was able to appreciate his efforts. And in turn, he rose to the occasion and wanted to work.

Today, he has showered me with love and given me so many hugs, I have lost count. Noah felt that I loved him no matter what, and has reciprocated in a manner far beyond my expectations!

I am so filled with gratitude for my Father in Heaven who helps me to be the kind of parent He wants me to be. I have found that I am not much on my own, but when I ask for help from my Father, I am surprised at the woman I am becoming! It is amazing how much He wants to help me, if I will only ask in Faith, believing I will receive, and then be willing to implement the things I am prompted to do.

This will be a continual process of me making mistakes and trying to do it "my way" (which never works) and then finally out of exhaustion and exasperation, turning in prayer to the One who knows what I need to do. I am trying to change and humble myself sooner. I feel as a mother that when my kids are grown and raising their own families, I want to feel reassured that I did my best. I want NO REGRETS! I want to know that I was prayerful and raised the children in the way Heavenly Father wanted me to. (No matter what choices they make, at least I will know I taught them the way I know is right.)

I sometimes feel that because I had such amazing parents, it is easy for me to "seem" like a good parent. Because it is natural to emulate the way they treated me. (Not that I always do, however) I don't have to break life long traditions of child abuse or verbal abuse or criticizing. My parents simply loved me unconditionally, and I knew that. When I make mistakes like yelling at my children or criticizing, I feel even worse since that was not the way it was in my house growing up. That was not something I learned through example. So, I feel I have an even greater responsibility to be an amazing parent since I had great examples my whole life. Even now, my parents are still parenting in loving ways; praying for me, keeping in touch, letting me cry on their shoulders and always being there. I hope I can be that kind of parent. And thankfully I can, with the help of my Father.

Brotherly Love

Museum of Art at BYU

The kids and I in front of one of Brad's fave paintings.

We decided to take a Family Outing. Brad and I thought it would be fun to go to the Museum of Art at BYU, but we weren't sure how well the kids would do, so we gave Noah a choice- we could either go to the Earth Science Museum or the Museum of Art and he picked the latter. We figured since he chose, he would act accordingly. Well, we were wrong . . . but, at least it was free!

The kids lasted about fifteen minutes until Noah found some "secret passages" and then Amalie realized she was in an "echo chamber"she sang and shouted at the top of her lungs. So, I escorted the two culprits outside and luckily they have this beautiful sanctuary where the kids could explore and I could relax. We had a great time outside and Brad was able to take photos of paintings inside. Afterward we took the kids to a Mexican Bakery and Noah picked a cookie for he and Amalie to share. It was simple, but such a sweet day with my family.

This sculpture actually freaked me out at first, because I didn't notice it right away and then I saw this woman in my peripeheral vision, I turned and saw the statue which looked so life like, it creeped me out.