At Home with The Stephens

Corbin and I celebrated out 10 year anniversary on the 29th. Since it's so close to Christmas we usually keep it simple by going out to dinner which we did that evening after we took the kids ice skating. My mom was nice enough to watch Isaac the whole time and she took Marina and Roman while we went to Olive Garden. Here's a few shots of us ice skating. Marina caught on quite well and gained a lot of confidence toward the end. In fact she didn't want to go and now says she wants to live in Bountiful so she can go more often. Hmmmm. I love the view of the mountains from the windows in the new ice arena. And hey, we even got four free tickets for our next skating adventure because they quoted me the wrong start time and we showed up an hour earlier than they were actually open. Anyway, that was our day. Here's to ten more.

A few weeks ago Roman asked me what Horton was doing in the cartoonish kung-fu scene we were watching. I just tried to simply explain that he was dreaming. After a moment he said 'no he's not dreaming, he's just thinking about how he wants to be that'. I was so impressed that he could grasp not only the difference, but that he even came up with a better explanation that I did. He amazes me sometimes.

Christmas has come and gone. This is one year that I didn't feel the let down after Christmas. Not that I was relieved either, but it all came and went. We enjoyed it and now it's time to move on. We have still been enjoying the after Christmas laziness. Corbin and I have played Scrabble a couple of times (a game I got him), the kids have played with their toys and a few friends, and I've just relaxed and enjoyed having Marina and Corbin at home. We've even slept in a little. In fact Isaac slept in until 10am today. What a treat. Of course the rest of us were up and had enjoyed a lovely waffle breakfast prepared by Corbin. Ahhhh. My house will clean itself in time.

I'm sure I have lots of news to share, but it all eludes me at the moment. So I will just share a few links to other blogs that I have found very thought provoking. Please take a moment to check them out.

Mama Bear

Life is about Living

ENJOY!!

Here's the link to an interesting news story that was on KSL last night. I even dreamed I went to the store to use one of the rebates.

My favorite month has flown by. The weather has been gorgeous and I've stayed mostly close to home, just letting the kids play with friends outside while I read a book or clean. Ahhh...the life ;)

I think I could handle October for at least another month. We've had some fun and scary happenings. Here's a list of a few.

Gardner Village with Aunt Kellie and cousins Kiera, Makenna, and Kasidee. Followed by lunch, a hike, and play time in the creek at our favorite secret park. Can you believe we had a whole park to ourselves on a UEA day? It's true.

Hiking Adam's Canyon to see a spectacular waterfall. This proved to be a difficult hike especially with the kids, but we made it and it was worth all of the beautiful fall scenery. It was a rocky and steep two mile hike to the top and the kids walked most of the way. I even think Marina (with Kiera and Corbin) took the lead and beat all of us by 20 minutes. On the way back Roman kept whining and saying that he wanted to go home. In the few places where I could carry him piggy-back he would say how he wished we could walk forever. Kids!

Two days ago we found some true Halloween spiders literally "hanging" out in the garage. YIKES! I won't go into the details. I just hope there aren't anymore lurking around. Marina is terrified of the garage and spiders now. I don't blame her.

I been watching the tree across the street turn colors. Most of the green is gone now, but it's quite a sight. I feel so lucky to look at this tree everyday from my window.

We went to the school Halloween Carnival. Marina had fun doing the cake walk, but was disappointed to not win a cake. It was fun anyway. I enjoyed spending time with her.

Pictures will be coming.

Literally. A bottle of Shout (a refill size even) sprung a leak and went all over my laundry floor. What a mess! I'd been meaning to clean this part of my home for a while now, but come on! Oh, and curse Liberty Homes for not being smart enough or for being too cheap to put in a drain. Who doesn't put a drain in the laundry area? That should be a given, right?

http://www.cubpack81.com/images/carve_pumpkin.swf

I'm tellin' ya, there's nothing in the world quite like the feeling of a clean house. I spent a good part of the day cleaning and organizing as I've let it go for a while. But, we had a showing tonight. When we came home I loved that it was so clean and smelled so fresh. AHHHH! So happy birthday to me from me. It was worth the time and effort.

I had lots of phone calls from family and friends. Mom and Porter came for a visit too. Thanks to everyone. Thanks too Mom and Dad for the gift certificate to the spa and for setting up the appointment. I also just returned from dinner at Casa del Rey with Corbin and the kids (a great way to kill time while someone looked at our house) and now they are wrapping secret presents in the basement. So... there is still fun to be had. Aren't birthdays great?!

My mother-in-law offered to watch the kids for my birthday. Since I had a dentist appointment on Monday I had her watch them then. After dropping the boys off I drove toward the hills of Bountiful and my soul just sighed. I was home and felt such peace. My eyes wandered over the colors of fall as the sunlight played with the trees- so many trees! I think I've been reading too much lately. I regretted not bringing any walking shoes. A drive would have to suffice. First the dentist and then a little drive. So nice. Like I said , only a walk would have been better (and no check up). Then I made a stop at Kiva for a raspberry lemonade that tasted like a strawberry Starburst. Yum! Oh, and a thick slice of honey wheat bread smothered with butter from Great Harvest. A lovely brunch that filled me the rest of the day. While consuming that I headed for EmilyJayne's to browse the antiques and see if I could find any treasures. I did find one little glass candy dish that I couldn't pass up for $3. Such a nice little two hour break. I think I need to remember to take more of these.

Today I wanted to visit the Rock Loft where they were dressing up as witches. Many times I will make excuses about 'not' going somewhere because it's too far or too much trouble with the kids etc. Today however I decided to buck up and just do it. I was so proud of myself for actually getting organized and getting the kids in the car with plans to meet Kellie there. Then, all of the sudden there was a dead halt on the freeway. A wreck about a mile off. We sat without moving for at least a half hour. I already knew the trip was over. We'd turn around and head home. But, as I exited at Saltair I had an idea. Let's go visit the marina. I thought we'd just snap a quick photo since Isaac was sleeping, but Marina and Roman wanted to get out and walk around. They were so excited to see the boats, especially the 'pirate boat'. And some of the men even looked like pirates (you can kind of see them through the flag). Lucky for us the owner of the boat with the pirate flag helped us through the gate and invited the kids on board. He even offered to have us come back sometime with Corbin for a free ride. The view from the lookout was beautiful and I'd really like to watch the sunset from there sometime. Hmmm...that's a great date idea. I highly recommend this little detour. I had to tear my kids away after and hour and a half. Plus, it was only $2 per car. Very worth it!

A few weeks ago I had Jen, Julie, Melanie, and Angie for a visit (just a few of the old gang from CBD). I feel so blessed to have lived here if only to have the friends I've made. I can't believe that our kids have grown so much. All of the older kids were one when we all moved in. These little reunions get crazier each time as we've each added our second, third, fourth... It's so fun to see you gals and let our kids run wild and enjoy spending time together. Maybe next time we can meet at a park and invite ALL of our CBD friends. Anyone up for organizing that?

I mentioned before that our nights have been crazy. Here's Isaac to prove it with his bed head. Marina said, "He looks like a dude". She says that means that he has crazy hair.

Roman- Mom can I break the glass in the TV?
Me- Noooo.
Roman- Why?
Me- Because then we won't have a TV. Why do you want to break the glass?
Roman- So we can get the bunnies and hold them.

At least he asked first.

Lately I keep finding new blogs to add to my Snoopin' Around section. I'm especially in love with prettylittlethings. I keep finding wonders at every corner and truly fun ideas. Each blog I visit tends to lead me to another and then another from that...it goes on and on. It's quite addictive and the more I look, the more I too want to create my own pretty little things. Now where to start. I have so many ideas that I'm just not sure. My mind becomes so overloaded that I just sit and continue to look at all of these fun blogs.

One thing I did do is conquer my fear of trying something new by making homemade salsa. This may sound simple to some, but for me it was quite intimidating. I had to buy cilantro and garlic. Yikes! Then the bottle of garlic was bagged with some heavy items and all of it broke though the plastic sack (my fault for not using my "green" bags) and fell onto the garage floor. Thus the bottle of garlic broke. Luckily, Macey's replaced it. And...I had to cut up the jalapeno peppers from my neighbor. I did finally get the job done while Isaac napped and the kids played. Whew!

Odds and Ends-

We got bunk beds for the kids and moved their old bed to the other room so that Isaac can use it. I've had quite a few horrible nights of sleep lately. I'm hoping it will get better.

My cousin was married last week and we attened the dinner reception which was Chinese traditional since both the bride and groom have Asian ties. Very fitting with the Olympics going on in China. I must say, I've never had an experience quite like it before. I did try something new though.

Marina stared the first grade. I'm glad it's here. She seems to like it as well. Now if we could just get rid of the mosquitoes and the heat. Both have been horrible lately. Even in the middle of a very hot day I will get a few bites within minutes.

Not much in the way of our house selling. We've had a few showings this past month, but nothing too promising. We're just waiting for the right buyer. They're out there. I'm telling myself that I'm OK either way, but really I want to move on the the home we picked for the Farmington lot. I can't wait to see how that neighborhood turns out. If this isn't the answer for us, I know something better is waiting.

I went to the DI the other day. I haven't been there in a while and frankly I avoid it sometimes for fear I'll find too many things 'I simply cannot live without'. It's not that I buy dumb stuff I don't need, but I feel particularly good about my finds this time. Skip to #5 for the best one.

1. Toys for the kids- ones they actually played with for more than a day. The DI .25 cent toys got at least 2 days worth compared to the brand new toys that are discarded after a few hours.

2. A brand new book- A New Dawn by Dean Hughes. I love his books! This one is about the Great Depression which I'm fascinated with. I can't wait to read it.

3. A Bugs Life- A movie I've wanted to buy for the kids and for only a few dollars. Who cares if it's VHS. And Jen I always think of you when it comes to VHS vs DVD. Sometimes they are easier.

4. A Willie Nelson Christmas CD. I do love Willie so I'll give it a whirl.

5. And best of all a glass cake plate just like the one I already have. I knew Tanielle wanted one and I'd even emailed her recently about the same one for sale on line, but I guess I went to the DI on the right day because there it was- just sitting there waiting for me to buy it and give it to her. Pure Providence! Check out her blog for a great picture. It looks great in her kitchen too.

Yes, over the past few years I have found some great treasures. Lovely dresses for Marina, other clothing items for me that I still wear, bikes in very good condition, and a few other fabulous things that I simply love and can't believe I found there. So...here's to the DI!

Everyone seems to posting about 'food'. So here's my contribution. Last night for dinner we ate zucchini (I wish I could say it was from my garden) and linguini with mizithra cheese and brown butter. Very easy and delicious!

The garbage truck is a love-hate relationship for Roman. He used to love watching the garbage truck from the window or the porch. A few months ago I made the mistake of saying something to the effect that the garbage truck was going to 'ruin the road because it was dripping sludge'. Since then, when it comes around he freaks out, screams like a girl, and says it's going to ruin the road. Not only that, but he asks me EVERYDAY at least ten times, "is it garbage day?". He is getting better and really doesn't freak too much now. We've tried to explain that it's not going to ruin the road and he's beginning to understand. Despite his fear, it doesn't stop him from playing with his own garbage truck or pretending that he is a garbage truck as in the above photo. I'm confused.

Rachel's been at it again and my kids can't get enough. I just had to post this one of Roman. Creepy!

At one point this summer I felt guilty for not enrolling the kids in swimming lessons. Marina taught herself last summer but, this year she wanted to jump off the diving board. With the help of a life jacket she has but, I wasn't going to pay fifty cents for a life jacket 2-3 times a week and I couldn't really find one I liked enough to buy. And... I'd really rather have them know their limits than depend on a life jacket (no offense to others who use them, I totally get it). Then Friday I suggested she try the diving board without the life jacket. No problem! I'm so relieved and she so excited to be able to jump and swim in the deep end. She even ventured to the bottom for a swim ring. When I tried the pressure hurt my ears. Guess I'm getting old. I'm so glad she enjoys swimming like I did as a kid. YAY!!

Roman was eating popcorn the other night when he asked if it was ok to eat this piece. When I said he could, he said he didn't want it. When I asked why he stated, "Because it's bald." For some reason he's had issues with baldness and facial hair lately. He's always asking my neighbor, Ken aka The Sucker Man, why he's bald (he shaves his head). One day I overheard him ask this, "Why you have a beard? Because you don't love anybody?" I still haven't figured that one out. His little mind gets so troubled over things that he shouldn't even be worrying about right now. When I suggest he's growing up and getting bigger, he pouts and says he wants to be my little boy forever and never grow up. It must be a stage.

As a side note- I think this is the perfect piece of popcorn. How would it be to have a whole bowl full of them?


I've started to learn how to crochet. Even though I've gotten a few extra rows beyond this point, I don't think I'm doing it right. I will learn. I have to. Marina's been bugging me to try since we went to the humanitarian night where they were crocheting different items for babies born prematurely.

I nearly forgot to mention that a week ago Corbin and I went out on an official date. OK, we do go out occasionally, but this felt more...special. A co-worker gave Corbin a recognition and a gift certificate for $100 to Cucina Toscana. After doing a little research I learned that the restaurant has won many awards. So I looked at the menu. WOW. I didn't even know what I would order, and the prices.... I knew for sure that we'd be under dressed. I was a little apprehensive and nervous about even going. So the day came, we dressed in our 'nicer' summer clothes and set off to take the kids to Grandma's. We drove downtown and just by the looks of the outside I couldn't believe that this was a place of 'fine dining'. As it turned out we were dressed just fine and the food...? It was Delizioso! Like nothing I've ever experienced before. I had no idea food could taste so good, and I love food. Despite the prices, I will definitely have to go back again. The whole dining experience and service was wonderful. I can't wait to go there again and try another wonderful dish.

My neighbor called the kids over many times last week so she could practice her face painting skills in preparation of her daughter's birthday party. Marina LOVED getting her face painted and the fairy dust. She and Roman were the perfect models. Every morning last week they asked if Elora's mom would call or could I call her so that they could get their faces painted again. Rachel did a great job on them each time. Funny thing though, when it came time for the party Marina never did want to get her face painted. I think she's a closest actress. She loves acting and dressing up, but not in front of others. Also, when Roman looked in the mirror as Spiderman he was scared. That's why he looks so sad. He warmed up to it though.

We had a busy week July 8-12. First was the camping. Next we went swimming with family and friends at Deseret Peak, and then we went to Lagoon.

I loved watching Roman on the merry-go-round. He continually had this look of wonderment and pure happiness. This picture captures a bit of that. Also, he seemed quite protective of the stamp on his hand. He kept holding it out and wouldn't let me hold that hand for fear the stamp might rub off. The day we went was amazingly great. It was hot, but not unbearable with all of the shade trees, the lines were quick despite being a Friday in July (on a Stake Lagoon Day), and Isaac did great with Grandma Stephens for 6 hours. I didn't get to go on all the fun rides I would have liked to since Marina chickened out (that's ok), but we had a fun time together. All the kids were worn out and fell asleep in the car on the way home at 7:30ish and stayed asleep. Roman got out of the car and melted into the sidewalk as pictured. Maybe next year Isaac can go. He'd love it too.

Lately I've been experimenting with photography in trying to appreciate the little things. To look beyond the surface (as in my previous post). I took this photo because I loved the color. It's fun to see what I end up with. In fact a quote by novelist Marcel Proust says this: "The real voyage of discovery is not in finding new landscapes, but in having new eyes." There is a web site I visit occasionally under my Snoopin' section (3191) where two women post photos each day of ordinary things. I like this idea. The days slip by so quickly and I want to enjoy each moment, especially with my kids. There is still much wonder to behold. If I can capture some of my new discoveries I just might continue to post them.

I don't usually do these sort of things, but I came across the following and couldn't resist. Mostly for a laugh. Some of them are quite hilarious. Have fun if you decide to do this one.

1. YOUR ROCK STAR NAME: (first pet & current car)
Ferocious Windstar

2.YOUR GANGSTA NAME: (fave ice cream flavor, favorite cookie)
Moose Tracks Sugar

3. YOUR “FLY Guy/Girl” NAME: (first initial of first name, first three letters of your last name)
N Ste

4. YOUR DETECTIVE NAME: (favorite color, favorite animal)
Aquamarine Polar Bear

5. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME: (middle name, city where you were born)
Lyn Murray

6. YOUR STAR WARS NAME: (the first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 letters of your first)
Steni

7. SUPERHERO NAME: (”The” + 2nd favorite color, favorite drink)
The Red Limeade

8. NASCAR NAME: (the first names of your grandfathers)
Ray Ray

9. STRIPPER NAME: (the name of your favorite perfume/cologne/scent, favorite candy)
Touch Starburst

10.WITNESS PROTECTION NAME: (mother’s & father’s middle names )
Marie Porter

11. TV WEATHER ANCHOR NAME: (Your 5th grade teacher’s last name, a major city that starts with the same letter)
Billings Boise

12. SPY NAME: (your favorite season/holiday, flower)
Autumn Rose

13. CARTOON NAME: (favorite fruit, article of clothing you’re wearing right now + “ie” or “y”)
Lime Capri

14. HIPPIE NAME: (What you ate for breakfast, your favorite tree)
Waffle Austrian Pine

15. YOUR ROCKSTAR TOUR NAME: (”The” + Your fave hobby/craft, weather element+ Tour")
The Walking Sun Tour

If you are reading this, consider yourself tagged.

I swiped this picture from Kellie's blog (hehe) so that I could post our tradition of what we do every July 3rd. We meet a bunch of family and friends up at the Eaglewood Golf Course for the spectacular fireworks show. The kids have fun running around the course and rolling down hills. Games are played, Frisbees are thrown, and lots of snacks and treats are eaten. I look forward to this day each year. It's one of the few traditions we have that has lasted through the years. I'm not sure if we've ever missed in the 10 years I've known Corbin. May it live on!

"deday"

Check out that form.

Getting brave.

We have been swimming lots this summer. I bought a season pass to the Stansbury pool so we go two or three times a week. Even though Isaac tots around checking out the birds and other stuff, we've had lots of fun in the sun. Roman is getting braver with the water by holding his breath for many seconds at time with his head under and, as pictured above, by jumping in with a floaty. And Marina likes to "practice her swim lessons" (even though she's not taking any) by swimming back and forth from the side of the pool to the middle and back again.

I guess I left Isaac out the other day when I mentioned the others and the things they've done lately. I thought this summer was going to be a nightmare at the park, chasing Isaac around. I still have to keep track of him, but he has caught on quite well to climbing up the gym and going down the slide. Mostly he turns himself around to slide down on his tummy, but a few times I caught him going on his bum. He decided to try to plastic rock wall yesterday too. Before long I won't even have to stand by him to prevent a slip. He's quite the little climber. His favorite spot is the kitchen table. Besides all that, he's starting to speak his mind. I was putting some cereal away yesterday and as I passed by him he said "uuuuhhhh!". Oh, he wanted some too! He doesn't talk much except a few words. Mama, Mamaama (Marina), Dada, and didy (kitty). He loves babies and and kitties. He's also seems to know how to pat both pretty gently. I love my little tater-tot!!

Roman finished a chart that we'd been working on and as a reward he got these Incredibles pj's. He was so excited to be able to dress up with Jarom.

There have been other accomplishments recently too. Roman has learned to ride his bike (two-wheeler). Last summer he wanted to learn so bad. We tried to help him, but he just was ready to balance on his own. After a couple of months of begging to ride Marina's bike without training wheels we were able to coordinate some time to work on this. It didn't take long for him to catch on this time and now he's off.

Marina, however, graduated to a bigger bike. We found a great bike at the DI for $6 and spent $14 on new tubes. Yay! She's happy and I didn't have to spend 70 bucks. One other thing this week- she learned to blow bubbles with her gum. Now of course Roman wants to learn. All in good time.

We've had lots of changes these past few weeks. Our biggest news is that our house is on the market. If you want to check it out here is the link: http://www.utahrealestate.com/805837 .

After living in Stansbury Park for 4 1/2 years we are ready to move on. Ok, I've been searching for a home in Davis County since we moved here. That leads to my next news. After much searching for a home in an "established neighborhood" and ending up frustrated because Corbin and I want different things, we have decided to build a home in Farmington. I think I had an inkling all along that we might have to build again, but didn't want to unless I could get my dream home. Last Saturday we stumlbed into a deal we couldn't say no to. Amazingly the floor plan is quite similar to one I've been working on in my head for the past 6 months. The one I just couldn't quite figure out on paper. And we'll be closer to family, shopping, friends, etc. I'd live less than a mile from Jen and our kids would go to the same school. There are so many benefits. Even though I'd have to wait for trees to grow again, I'd still have a great view of the mountians and a backyard. If we can sell our Stansbury home then we should be in the Farmington home by next spring. Wish us luck!

My baby is 1 today. One of my most trying, difficult, fastest, longest, joyful years is closing. And it may get even tougher before it gets easier. Isaac is such a busy boy. His smiles brighten up every room and strangers are drawn to us because of them. He is such a joy to have around and I feel so blessed to be his mom. It's amazing to me how many nicknames one little person can have so I thought it would be fun to write them all down. YyyyZeee Chunk-a-monk Peaches Peach-a-peteys (Marina's name) Pooches-Pooches (also Marina) Baby Babe Babes Busy Boy Little turkey mischief maker little-little kissable boy nakie boy (when he runs around in a diaper) Other funny phrase we use: chunky and yummy stinkie whopper fatty change He loves to bop to music, climb in cupboards, climb on chairs or tables, pretend he's talking on the phone, basically make a mess and get into another while I'm cleaning up the first one. He fell off of a chair yesterday and chipped his front tooth. He didn't even make it a year. I'm so bummed. He is tough though. He never cries for long, if he cries at all when he gets hurt. I decided today that his high tolerance for pain must have something to do with how he came into this world.

We celebrated his birthday with family this past Saturday. While he got his first haircut from Aunt Meagan, Corbin bought a trampoline enclosure. We couldn't figure out what to buy him so we considered the net to be his gift. After all, he can now enjoy the trampoline without fear of falling off. We then held a little party at Mueller Park. Isaac only cared about a rock he found and not about opening presents. Eventually he warmed up to some cute bowls he got and finally the toys. Thank you to everyone for your thoughtful gifts. Isaac is now enjoying them.

We love you forever Isaac!

I've kind of been out of touch lately. I wanted to update my blog a little by adding a new template, but nothing seems to be working so I'll just keep plugging along. If anyone knows where to get good templates let me know.

We've been house hunting a bit so that's one thing that's been occupying me. So far we've come up empty. With the price of everything going up we just might have to stay where we are for a while. We'll see. I'm not giving up just yet.

Another thing keeping me busy is Isaac. He learned to walk at ten months so I've been on the go trying to keep track of him. That and my other kids. Everyone has been so demanding lately. Lots of rolling eyes and "get me this or that". I'm getting out of here if this keeps up. JK. My friend posted on her blog recently and said that her husband took the day off work and took all of the kids somewhere else for the day. She had the "whole house for the whole day". WOW!! Maybe I could have a birthday present like that too. I love my kids, but a break now and then is a very good idea.

So I haven't really been that into blogging or emails lately. I'm not sure what happened, but I'm just not on the computer that much anymore. It's been great actually. I think I'm a better mom when I avoid the computer. It can be so addictive. Sometimes I will have conversations with Roman while I'm "surfing" and I really don't have a clue what he saying or what I'm saying back for that matter. Sooo... don't plan on too much from me lately. That's just where I'm at right now.

Marina is posing in her new swimsuit "Aunt Roxie" bought for her. She also got her ears pierced and her haircut as part of her birthday two weeks ago. I think she's cute, but she misses her long hair. Oh well, it will grow.

I finally found some new clothes thanks to my fashion consultant and cousin Roxanne. She was visiting from Henderson last week so we had a great time eating out and shopping. She spoiled me to death as usual. She's the best! Thanks for all the "treats" Roxie! I'd love you either way though.

Isaac is so close to walking and is working on stairs (which he tumbled down today, oops). He could maybe use a little prayer as he seemed fine, but then he woke up crying and didn't stop for an hour. I tried everything and then Corbin did his part with a blessing. After that I was able to get him to sleep.

I guess that's it. Hope everyone is well. Spring is nearly here. ENJOY!

I hope everyone had a great Valentine's Day. Corbin surprised me with flowers. He considered a bouquet with all red roses, but chose one with many colors because he knows how I love colors. HE IS AWESOME! Thanks Corbin! I love you!

A few nights ago Roman decided at bedtime that he needed to do "his job". So he proceeded to take out of the dryer one piece of clothing at a time and them away. He did a pretty good job too. I was so proud of him. I never even asked him to do it. He just saw a job to be done and decided to do it. The next day he kept saying 'I did my job last night'.

Marina's school was canceled on Valentine's Day because of the blizzard the previous night. We probably only got a foot here in Stansbury, but I guess the school buses were all snowed-in in Tooele so all of Tooele county schools were closed. We didn't even do anything fun to make up for it, but she did get to have her party today.

Isaac continues to be the happiest baby I've ever met. He's always so smiley and friendly to all he meets. He plays so well on his own too. It makes getting a few things done a bit easier. I'm only sad that he's growing up so fast. Nine months today.

I have to mention a special Happy Birthday to my mom, Lynne. Her birthday was on Valentine's Day. She's a wonderful grandma to my kids a they love her so much. I don't know what we'd do without her. Now that we both have early church we're hoping to spend more time with her this year. We love you!