Controlled Chaos

Glory at Last!!

2012-01-29T07:52:00.001-08:00

Here are pics of Carter's winning pinewood derby car. Carter found the design online, and I shaped it with the bandsaw, spindle sander, and router. 10 coats of spray shellac in the 12 hours before the race gave it a really glossy finish, but it was still wet come racetime, and touching it left permanent fingerprints on the not fully cured finish. This is our last pinewood derby and it feels good to go out on top after so many mediocre finishes!

You heard it straight from here...

2012-01-26T16:56:00.000-08:00

I have read the Book of Mormon many many times. But last night, I learned something new. I've never noticed before. Last night's scripture study...2 Nephi 9:51

"...let your soul delight in fatness."

Does the context matter? I think not. I knew my extra subcutaneous layer would be good sometime in my life:)

A typical afternoon/evening

2012-01-25T18:21:00.000-08:00

You know how much I like to be smothered, right? So, I got home from school at 4:45. Only Carter was here. Nana had sent me a package, so I called to thank her. Within a couple minutes, the troops descended upon me. By that, I mean, Malia came in and started jumping up and down and asking me if I missed her, Carter was asking me if I could make some sweet and sour sauce (for the eggrolls I made for dinner), and Rick was asking me if he should mail a check or not and if I had stamps. I WAS ON THE PHONE PEOPLE! I ended that phone call and proceeded with dinner...EVERYONE WAS IN THE KITCHEN asking me 1000 questions until I finally said, "EVERYBODY OUT!" Within 15 minutes, dinner was ready. It was gluten full, so I served everyone and then sat down to work on homework. Within minutes, Bella sat down between the pillow and the computer in the 6 inches of free space available and started asking questions and Malia brought a stack of books and moved my binders and such onto the floor so she could sit RIGHT NEXT TO ME and read outloud. Have you ever tried to take a test on respiratory function and listened to Curious George and Santa Mouse at the same time? Just sayin'. SPACE people, SPACE! I sent Bella to get Rick's noise cancelling headphones so i could concentrate but Malia protested, saying she would read quieter. Fantastic. QUIET reading out LOUD Pinkalicious while I'm taking a respiratory exam. It's no wonder I covet my two days off when I am ALL BY MYSELF!

21 days...

2012-01-24T20:34:00.000-08:00

On January 1, we started reading the Book of Mormon, out loud, as a family. As you can expect, we have attempted this many times before and have failed miserably. As of today, we have read it 23 nights in a row...which is 2 days past 21..the number of days it takes to create a habit. Here's hoping we really have created a habit.

Malia

2012-01-24T20:31:00.000-08:00

I am going to try and update more often...a snippet from tonight. I told Malia it was time for bed. For some reason, she threw more of a fit than usual. I pretty much ignored it while she cried in her bed. Then, when I walked by her room, she got up, and threw a bowl at my feet (the I think I might throw up bowl from last night...which she DID NOT USE!). I ignore it and continue doing what I'm doing. A minute later, she came in my room where I was and chucked it at my feet again. Do you think she was trying to get a reaction? Pretty sure she was...but I prevailed! No reaction...and she didn't throw it at me again:)

Memories ...

2012-01-13T09:44:00.001-08:00

I came across these photos the today. Was Carter not the cutest 4 year old you've ever seen?

And here's one of Carter at 2 years of age.

Budget

2011-12-28T22:35:00.000-08:00

Okay lovelies...I'm on a neverending quest to reduce the food budget. I'm reading this e-book 2012 family guide to groceries under $250 month. I got it from Budget101.com! I'll let you know how I like it:)

Catch up...

2011-12-21T13:59:00.000-08:00

We have been busy! By that, I mean I, have been busy. And...I take far too few pics...here's a few to catch up...

Bella was in a play at school. She was a warewolf. How do you spell that? I don't know, but whoever did her hair had some serious skills. How do you make it look like that? She is posing with the guy who wrote the play. She was absolutely adorable in it and loved every minute of it.

The kids had fun at Halloween. They didn't actually trick-or-treat very long, but they got plenty of loot...which I refrained from throwing away this year. I know, I'm getting soft. Really, I just didn't care. I'm not even sure they at it all...I think it might've ended up getting dumped when I cleaned out their rooms.

And...Carter played his first season of football. He loved every minute of it. The determination in his eyes was priceless. He was all about tackling, even if it meant full body slams which he tried to do on occasion (provoked by his dad, of course). He was fun to watch because he loved being out there.

More to come..

I'm that lazy

2011-12-13T23:57:00.000-08:00

We have a few new posts on our family blog that are pretty fun. I'm too lazy to repost them, but check out lizzydid.blogspot.com to hear the hilarious antics of Nate. :)

Halloween at last...

2011-11-11T09:17:00.001-08:00

Here's a recap of our halloween activities.

First, the Trunk or Treat. Elizabeth was Abby Cadabby (from Sesame Street.)

It was cold that night so Natalie was a flamingo. (And she would NOT let me take a decent picture of her!)

The girls got WAY too much candy.

On Halloween, Elizabeth and I carved her pumpkin from the pumpkin patch and made her first Jack-O-Lantern. She picked the face out all by herself from a bunch of samples on the internet.

We went trick or treating at the outlet mall by our house that afternoon with Elizabeth's 3 quasi brothers. She liked being Abby so much she wanted to do it again.

That day was unseasonably warm so Natalie was Tinkerbell.

And she was still not interested in letting me take a decent picture of her.

Here's Elizabeth and her entourage. Do you love the mario and luigi costumes because I did.

Elizabeth did not want to take her nap on Halloween so I didn't make her...and this is what she looked like on the way home from the outlets. It was only 5:30 pm.

She woke up in time for dinner and decided she wanted to trick or treat at the neighbor's house and like 5 others. It worked out great. That was plenty for Natalie's attention span. Evidently she was over being told what a cute Tinkerbell she was.

Hope yours was great too!

What Halloween Costumes?

2011-10-26T22:15:00.000-07:00

This year, mom is tired so Charlie and Josie just decided to go as themselves for Halloween : )

Don't judge.. I let Josie have a sucker to pacify her while I handed out candy to the kiddos.
Had to get a shot that showed off Charlies ruffle leggings because once she had the tutu on, you couldn't see them (boo hoo). Plus her in that leotard is so yummy!
Needless to say, they were a hit at our wards trunk or treat!

Sneak Peak

2011-10-03T22:49:00.001-07:00

Here is one little sneak peak of my sweet little Josie's 6 month pics (even though she was really 7 months when they were taken). She looks sooo different from Charlie! I should get to see the rest of them in a couple days.

Does this look like "Failure to Thrive" to you?

2011-09-21T11:45:00.000-07:00

I didn't think so. This is Natty pre procedure this morning. Those feet that you see in the background belong to none other than Uncle Marky. As an aside, if you ever have to take your baby to a surgery center, I highly recommend Marky. Hilarious and adored by Natalie, as you'd expect, but also very knowledgeable and universally well liked by the medical staff. So far so good.

And here's my perfect angel baby sleeping off some of that anasthesia. You can kind of see the tube that is coming out her nose, precariously taped to her face and down her back. That's hooked to a monitor that I have to carry behind her all day. The monitor could be worn as a backpack theoretically, but Natalie is so small it falls off her shoulders, even on the tightest setting. And yes, those things on her arms are the baby equivalent of a straight jacket. They're called "no nos" and Natalie must have heard it because she keeps glaring at them and saying "no no!" I'll try to get some video soon.

Meanwhile, her surgery notes say that her reason for procedure is ANOREXIA among other things. Does that qualify me for mother of the year? My baby is anorexic. (Not really, I'm sure it's a misprint but that's DEFINITELY going on my permanent record. I'm sure of it.) Now, which of you would like me to watch your babies for you? I'm really good at it. :)

Sucker anyone?

2011-08-29T23:25:00.000-07:00

Stephen just returned from Singapore and he brought all the kids a present. Josie thoroughly enjoyed hers (look close!!!)

In August, Mackenzie and I went to Texas to be there for baby Lilah's birth. She is beautiful by the way. We went to Rebecca's house to visit the day after Lilah came home. Rebecca has 2 big boxers, and a little chihuahua too. This is the first time Josie has ever seen a dog... check out her reaction to the barking dogs.

Pictures of baby Joseph

2011-08-20T22:10:00.001-07:00

Hey Everybody,

I just finally posted some pictures of baby Joseph on my blog. I also made my blog somewhat private, but I tried to invite all of the family members so they can see them and be able to see my blog. If you did not get the invite, send me an email from the email you use now and I will send you a new invite.

Thanks,

Matty

The Girls Have Something They Want to Share

2011-08-12T21:31:00.001-07:00

. . . coming Dec. 5th-ish

Sorry to all those who were hoping otherwise.

Kiddos...

2011-07-24T21:25:00.001-07:00

So...I'm kind of ticked at the kiddies at this exact moment, but that doesn't change the fact that they really are good kids...and I am grateful...

This past couple of weeks during my recovery, Malia has been especially clingy. She likes to be with me all the time. The other day, she came up to me and started stroking my face and my hair and asked if I was feeling better. I told her that I was, and she said, "Oh good. I love you mom. You're the best mom in the world." So sweet.

Bella is a very sweet girl, by nature (when she's not sassy). She had a few dollars to spend at the dollar store and she insisted that I take her before Jake's birthday. She then bought Jake and Carter each a birthday present, something for Malia, and something for her. She is very generous with her money, not just this time, but all the time. She always buys something for one of her siblings when she has a few dollars to spare.

Jake went on his first real "scout camp." He's not quite 12 yet, but our friend Jeremy took him with a couple of his buddies. When he got home, he just couldn't wait to sit down and tell us all about it. It was late at night, but I enjoyed listening to his adventures, and couldn't help but wonder when he wouldn't want to sit down and talk to us any more...I know it's coming, but so far, he still likes us.

Malia was very jealous of Carter who was having a sleepover at Sammy's house this week. I do not like sleepovers, and she is so young, I didn't want her to have one. So, I told her she could have a sleepover with me, and she actually agreed! WE watched toy story together and then she slept on the floor in my room. In the morning when she woke up, she climbed in bed with me and we watched cartoons together. Then, we watched Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift music videos together. Again...I know there will come a time when hanging out with me is the last thing she wants to do, but for now, she loves it.

Walking into church today, Malia and Carter were both holding my hand. Carter will be 10 in a few days, but that boy loves his mama. Wonder if that will change soon too!

I'm not supposed to lift anything more than 10 lbs. The boys have been so great about carrying everything for me. They are so sweet about it. Carter even opens the door for me! They are good boys.

Jake got a weight lifting bench for his birthday today. He was so excited. I can't wait to see him lifting those weights...Since I caught him one time lifting weights in his bed, hiding from us, I know he is excited about it. The start of many years of weight lifting, I'm sure...

Carter has been off the pump for awhile while we try to get his blood sugar under control. He is really good about getting shots. When it was time to put his pump back in, he was very anxious about getting that sight in. Apparently, I didn't push it in hard enough, so he basically had a needle poking in and out of his skin until a couple hours later when I took it out completely...poor kid. Later that night, I tried it again, this time getting it in all the way, and when I was done, he said, "Thanks mom" and gave me a hug. He is a champ, that one.

Anyway, my kids are good kids...so sometimes when I'm feeling annoyed with them, it's good to write things down so I remember all the good things that they do...I really am enjoying this summer. It's the first summer when I feel like summer is flying by!

5 days post-op thoughts...

2011-07-17T19:55:00.000-07:00

So, I did it. It's done. I am sterile...and happy about it. The day of surgery, we went to Wild Waters to play until I had to leave. Since I couldn't eat or drink, I was a tad thirsty...the idea definitely crossed my mind to just "stick out my tongue" as I walked by the waterfalls everywhere and lap up some of that chlorine goodness...but I refrained (mostly because someone was with me all the time - they might've thought that was gross or something). Surgery was delayed (surprise surprise). The anesthesiologist was like 15, at best. Mom and Rick asked a million questions that I did not think to ask. When they finally took me into surgery, the anesthesiologist started talking to me about Valencia and then I felt "it." I said, "Hey, you drugged me already..." and drifted off to never neverland. I was unhappily woken up too soon by a nurse. I remember eating a cube of red jell-o so I could have some more pain meds but that's about it. I woke up in my hospital gown with a catheter in, at home, in bed. Huh? I remember waking rick up asking for more pain meds and that's about it...til the following day.

Mercifully, friends took my kids the next day so I didn't do much but lay around. At one point, we called the doctor to get different pain meds because I thought my abdomen was on fire...but the rest of the week passed in more or less routine stuff...made it to Bella's performance on Friday, went to Costco and the grocery store on Saturday, same old, same old.

Here's what I learned about having surgery:

1. Get rid of the children! If they're here, they're on me, or hugging me, or stroking my head and being entirely sweet and nurturing and letting me get absolutely zero rest.

2. Invite Nana. She is a great chauffeur. She fills the cupboards with all sorts of goodness (gluten-free and otherwise), she's great company, she'll watch chick flicks, she'll get you good pain meds, and she'll help you take your catheter out. TMI??

3. Hospital gowns are even less attractive in your full length mirror at home.

4. Vacuum before surgery. For some reason, you're not supposed to do it after...and let's just say, it shows.

5. Get moving. No time like the present. Might as well just suck it up and go for it...it doesn't get any easier if you wait.

6. You get to keep parting gifts! For me, it was a catheter, a hospital gown, and some lovely pictures of my "innards!" Who knew? And who wants to see my pics?

And 7. Drugs are good. Very good.

So...who's next? Matty. Hope this advice is helpful.

Charlie loves Josie.... right??

2011-07-17T19:50:00.000-07:00

They look like they are playing nice right here... but what is really happening is Charlie is taking away ANYTHING Josie can get her hands on. Then she usually runs away with it and throws it somewhere way out of Josie's reach and range of mobility.

Ummm... I don't even have words for this one. Charlie has Josie at Nerf gunpoint... Can you say anger management issues? She likes Josie, right?
Don't worry about Josie though... she is busy planning her revenge!

CONVERSATION WITH AN 8 YR OLD AFTER THE WORLD CUP

2011-07-17T19:15:00.000-07:00

After watching the replay of the World Cup, Husband and I are literally sick to our stomachs over the loss. As the medal ceremony begins this occurs....

Stephen III: Awww, the USA looks sad.

Me: It's because they are.

Stephen III: I hate Japan... We did good at that nuclear bombing of them...

Me & Stephen: (horrified stares... speachless...)

If you must know...TAMMY

2011-07-06T14:05:00.000-07:00

I am having a hysterectomy on July 12th...I won't bore you with details...I'm expecting it to go smoothly and recovery should be fairly quick because it's laparoscopic. Mom has generously agreed to come hang out with me for a few days and then all will be back to normal...So...that's it.

In more fun news, we had a great time camping and I will post some pictures shortly...way better than a post about upcoming surgery...

Since I haven't seen any of you in way too long...

2011-07-03T19:07:00.000-07:00

I just thought I'd post a couple of cute candids my friend caught of my girls when we were at Adam's softball game the other night. Natty is so big since most of you saw her last so I thought I'd remind you of her impossible cuteness so as to entice you out to TX to visit.

OK, come on out to TX! We'll take your kids to the park for a softball game and take cute pics of them too!

Matty vs. his knee

2011-07-01T21:04:00.000-07:00

Well, my money is on Matty, but I'm all for stacking the deck. Surgery for Matty's knee is scheduled for this month so for anyone interested, I think it'd be a great idea to participate in a family fast (if you're capable of such) and/or a family prayer. This Sunday is fast sunday and I for one think Matty and Lisa have more fun places to invest their energy (like their two beautiful daughters and that sweet new baby who's due pretty soon) so let's pray that all goes well for him and that his recovery is quick and complete. We're pulling for you, Matty!

We'd love to include in this fast anyone else in need of medical attention. Ahem. Ahem. So if you or someone you know may or may not be receiving medical care in the near future, please feel free to include his/ her hame in your fast as well. YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE....

Living The Highlife

2011-06-27T14:21:00.000-07:00

That's what we do when Michelle leaves us for the weekend - live the highlife by eating those great foods that Michelle would absolutely hate. On Saturday, with Michelle in Valencia, we tried this dish I saw featured on Man vs. Food (a show the kids are addicted to btw; better than Wizards of Whatever Losers!!). And it was GOOD. Take a good quality all beef hot dog, split it down the middle with the casing in tact on the back side; grill both sides in butter; add Swiss cheese while grilling to get nice and melty; grill the hot dog bun in butter (like grilled cheese sandwich); spread strawberry jam on the bun, and enjoy. Sounds weird, but the salty with sweet is really good. Even Malia ate and loved it, and she's our pickiest eater. Give it a try, if you like good "man food" as Michelle calls it. Then on Sunday for lunch we had hot links heaped with deliciously caramelized onions. Yummy (though I'm a little hot dog'd out for a few a while).

Kids these days...

2011-06-13T18:18:00.001-07:00

Carter: (after watching a commercial for Toddlers and Tiaras) What is that?
Bella: That's the show where the moms rip the kids' eyebrows off...

Huh? Then I thought about it...it is somewhat true. The moms do wax the girls' eyebrows...but that's all she thinks of when she sees that?

......

Malia (talking to me): Mom, remember when I first stopped sucking my thumb at Jennifer Davy's? Wait no, before that, when I did a really good job...wait no, before than, remember when...Wait, let's start at the top.

(Seriously? Start at the top? You are 6!)

Normal...at least in our family.

2011-06-13T18:00:00.001-07:00

An exchange between Malia and Carter:

Carter: Malia, can I have one of your candies?
Malia: Check your blood sugar first.

Yes, Malia, the 6-year-old even knows that Carter can't eat w/o checking his sugar...Can't get anything past that girl...

Memorial Weekend

2011-06-06T22:57:00.001-07:00

We had such a great time in Cali for Memorial weekend. Thank you to everyone who made the trip so we could visit with you. We miss having family nearby : ( Just thought I'd share some highlights from our trip...

Slim enjoying a chocolate shake from In-N-Out before we hit the bounce house
Totally spontaneous hand holding from the usually feuding cousins. It was so cute! We were walking around Bridgeport after enjoying some Red Mango and Adelle just reached out her hand and Charlie grabbed it. The view from the back was even cuter just seeing those two little hands meet.
On Memorial day, we went to the park to hang out & play some ultimate frisbee. The younger kids loved the bubbles that nana got for them. And Aunt Michelle was so nice to keep blowing bubbles for them. (Check out Nates Bed Head... and what Charlie is holding in her squishy little hand... diet coke!)
Aunt Michelle sharing her diet coke with Captain Squishy... aka Charlie.
And you can't take a trip to Nana and Papa's house without squeezing in a trip to Tiny's!
This is the real reason I came to cali... Rebecca's baby shower for her sweet Lilah who has been waiting nearly 8 long years to come to this earth. Can't wait til she arrives! Michelle and Katie were too cool for their hideous straw hats.

Note...read post under this one first...definitely more important

2011-05-24T14:37:00.000-07:00

Check this out people! Now that I have no school I have to focus my energy somewhere else...like being cheap and getting the most for my buck! I was on my way home when I decided to stop at the Orowheat Outlet...and this is what I got for $10! Take a close look...there is one loaf of wheat bread, three bags of Pioneer rolls (18 rolls), two bags of potato hamburger buns (24 total), one bag of pretzels, one box of donuts (Malia snuck them in when I wasn't paying attention), one bag of GF hot cereal (DO YOU KNOW HOW EXPENSIVE THIS STUFF IS?????)! Awesome...and, this nice gentleman behind me gave me his "punch cards" which are now full and this purchase filled up my punch card which means I could've gotten three more things free...but, I decided to save it for my next visit because my freezer is STUFFED!

Lisonbees newest Deacon

2011-05-24T09:27:00.000-07:00

Brandon successfully celebrated his 12th birthday and with it came the big day - his ordination as a deacon. He stood proud after the ordination with his dad, his uncles Mark and Adam, and his papa. We are all grateful to have been a part of this momentous occasion and also grateful for the choices he has made that allow him to be worthy of it. We expect great things of you in the future and it is a proud day for your family - way to go Brandon.

Step by step...

2011-05-20T17:04:00.000-07:00

Okay folks, by now, y'all are probably aware that I have joined the ranks of the Tamster and I am gluten free. No big deal. It was a difficult transition for about two weeks and then I was over it and feeling better. I think the Lord likes to teach us things line upon line and this is one of those things. I am now gluten free casein free (dairy free). I could go into a big long explanation but who really wants to hear about those pesky digestive issues anyway. I have to say...it SUCKS! I try not to be a complainer about the whole gluten thing because I don't want people to make their plans around what I will or won't eat. That makes me uncomfortable. I prefer to fly under the radar, if you will. However, this no dairy is crap, I tell you. No more of my beloved Greek Yogurt and worst of all, no more cheese. BLAST those cows! Well, technically, I guess it's not their fault. So, I did have an amusing experience force feeding the kiddies the soy yogurt that I took one bite of and wondered why they had mixed mustard into my yogurt. SICK people...So, I made all the kids try it so I could watch some good reactions and they did not disappoint. The only thing that was better was making the kids try my chocolate gfdf protein powder mixed into the soy milk. Seriously people, it was like you were downing muddy water with sand floating around. PRICELESS reactions. I don't think they'll be stealing any of my food any time soon. On the positive side, I do like almond milk...in small amounts...like on cereal. Like with gluten, it's just better if I can eat whole foods that are naturally gfcf.

So, my goal for the summer is to figure out how to make some of my favorite staples...like barbeque sauce and bread crumbs and salad dressing that are gfcf so I can have something to eat. For the love! I am hungry people...really hungry. And I think the ultimate goal for me is to find chocolate that is gfcf. Once I have succeeded in those things, i will be happy and content. Until then, thank heavens it's summer and there are so many fantastic fruits and veggies in season and sold on every other corner by my house! Love those farmers!!!

Nurses are People

2011-05-17T13:46:00.001-07:00

I've been meaning to mention this because I think all the nurses out there may appreciate it.

Sarah has been learning to "be a nurse" to Matt by getting the ice pack, pillows, or water. She generally takes great pride in her job. One time, when Matt called her "doctor," she firmly reminded him that she is NOT a doctor, she's a nurse...."remember?" But on to the joke...Matt asked her to get him some water and a couple minutes later the cup drawer was open but I didn't see her anywhere. I called her name and asked if she was going to get daddy some water. She loudly replied from the bathroom, "I was going to but I had to go potty first because nurses are living people too!" I'm glad she has priorities. The water could wait. The bladder, however...

Memories...

2011-05-06T18:24:00.000-07:00

My kids have been asking a lot about what they were like as babies and toddlers...and we have been laughing pretty hard about some of their antics...here's a little trip down memory lane for you...

Jake was a nightmare. He cried all the time. One day on the way to the mall with Tammy, after listening to him cry all day, we realized it was silent. We were shocked. Literally, we didn't know what to do. But, good news, we figured it out because the not crying only last 10 minutes.

One day, Nana and Papa and Kristin and I don't know who all else watched Jake for me when he was a tiny infant. He screamed the whole time. After awhile, Kristin looked at him and said, "so sad fatso, so sad."

I used to drive Cameron Larsen and Brett to school in the morning sometimes. When Cameron would get in the back seat, Jake used to start screaming and frantically trying to bust out of his car seat. He didn't react to anyone else like that...just Cameron...and Cameron is such a nice kid!

Jake used to wake up at the crack of dawn. Having nothing better to do, I started taking him on walks around the neighborhood. He cried a lot of the time, but sometimes I could get him to quit by having him count the basketball hoops. Thankfully there were a lot of them. He could shoot a perfect shot by the time he was 2~Later when I walked with Lisa Peacock, he would scream most of the way still. It was mortifying and I thought that the neighbors would think I was abusing him or something.

Jake had a huge crush on his Aunt Katie. He loved to sit next to her or on her lap or just be near her. Justin used to mess with him and sit by her and hold her hand and Jake would get nuts!

Jake didn't like stuffed animals in his room as a baby. I would mess with him by putting one in. At naptime, when he would realize there was one in there, he would open the door, chuck the animal out, and shut the door. When I asked him why he did that, he said, "he was yooking at me." A la la la.\

Jake used to like to make up songs. He would sing mostly about basketball...

When Jake was in preschool, they used to have various members of the community come and visit (firefighters, policemen, dentists, etc.) Jake called them "visitors" and he DID NOT LIKE THEM. He refused to sit with the other kids and listen. Instead, he had to go with the teacher's aid, as far from the "visitor" as possible. Every day he would ask if a "visitor" was going to be there. He was terrified of them.

Carter wasn't allowed to have anything in his room besides his bed; nevertheless, he managed to break a second story window and then throw the shards of glass against the bunkbed and laugh hysterically at the noise it was making.

Carter's passie had to go at a year because it was giving him a rash. When we were anywhere near a baby with a passie, he would walk up, take it out of their mouth, put it in his and take off.

One Sunday, Justin and Katie were in town and we were at Carrie and Marks for something (baby blessing?). Katie and Justin had to leave and Carter when running down the street after them and asked Katie if she would remember him...

Katie was helping Carter get dressed after swimming one day and he asked Katie..."Katie, do you were underwear too?" When Katie said that she did, Carter replied, "big ones?"

Carter would fall asleep immediately as an infant if you would burrito him and put his passie in...

I could take Carter anywhere in a stroller for any amount of time and he would just sit and smile the whole time...

When we lived in our UCLA apt., I found Carter playing in the oven, standing on top of our computer desk, and various other dangerous and crazy places. So, we had to turn the door handles around on both doors and lock them from the living room side and put a gait up in front of the kitchen. He was confined to a space about 14 feet by 20 feet....

I knew it was time to switch rooms when I found Carter and Bella in their room playing "the naked game." No idea what that is...but we switched right then...

Bella has a dora pillow case. She only likes it one way, with the head and face facing the right way. When I would put her to bed, I would turn it the wrong way and mess with her. She ALWAYS noticed and turned it the right way.

When Bella's hair grew in, it was very whispy and stuck straight up...when it finally grew up, Somebody (she who shall not be named) asked me if they could cut my daughter's mullet. The nerve of some people!

Bella has always had a strong personality, and so does her cousin Camille. At a family vacation when they were 3 or 4, one of them bit the other one and the other one bit back and neither has bitten again!

Bella was wearing a red shirt and khaki capris to school one day at kindergarden. The teacher said Bella, you look like you work at Target. Without missing a beat, Bella turned to the girl next to her and said rolling her eye, "Like a kid could work at Target."

Malia is the only kid I have who actually liked naps and would ask for them. That didn't stop until about a year ago...oh, the beauty of a good napper.

I went back to school when Malia was 3 months old. She wouldn't take a bottle. I left her at Nana's house. One day a week, my lab was hours long. Not once, did she ever wake up during that lab class. A serious miracle...

Malia started stealing my diet cokes when she was less than a year old. I have a picture of her drinking out of a jumbo sipper when she was barely walking...Smart girl.

Malia really believed she was going to get married to Preston Minnick at family camp last year. She even asked me to go get her a wedding dress.

Malia's favorite thing to bring on our morning walks (still with Lisa!) was her blankie (old blankie and new blankie) and books...She still loves books!

None of my kids would eat bread (AT ALL) until they were at least kindergarden age and even now, they are not huge fans of it. WEIRD.

Okay, now I have some in print...before my brain gets too foggy and I totally forget about everything funny...

Sucker...

2011-05-06T15:03:00.001-07:00

That's me. Malia asked me yesterday if I'd pick her up. I was in some stage of half awake delerium after waking up at 4 AM and then not getting home until 6 PM. I vaguely remember asking me to give her my pinky, which I did. Then she said "Ha! You pinky promised to pick me up early from campus club tomorrow." Uh huh what? Yep, I usually make her ride the bus home on Friday with the other kids, but apparently I pinky promised to pick her up early instead. Sigh...

Feeling crafty

2011-05-06T14:17:00.000-07:00

I was feeling crafty the other day- I think making the burp cloths and hair bows for Rebecca inspired me... anyways, since Charlie's isn't really cooperating keeping her hair bows in right now, and since hair is at an awkward stage, I thought I'd try to make her a fabric headband. I had one in black and white, so I just used it as a template and made this one...

It ended up on the floor a couple minutes after I put it on her... but for those 2 whole minutes she wore it, she really rocked it!

Happy Belated Easter Everyone!

2011-05-01T22:07:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to show you guys the girls in their first matching dresses! My mother-in-law gave them to me and they ended up being the perfect Easter Dresses for the girls. Easter was Josie's first Sunday at church- yah I know she's 2 months old but hey! I took an extended maternity leave OK?!?!?

Blogworthy...

2011-04-17T21:39:00.000-07:00

Setting...Malia and Bella in the backseat of the car. Me driving, barely paying attention to their banter.

Bella: Malia, you know, you have competition for Preston now. (Preston has moved to Montana. He's Malia's BFF)

Malia: What?

Bella: Preston has a new friend named Hayley Bieber. His brother say he has Bieber fever. You might not get to marry him now.

Malia: (Completely enraged) BELLA! I'M OVER IT OKAY! I'M OVER IT! THAT WAS WHEN I WAS LITTLE, OKAY:

pause...

Malia: I DON'T WANT TO TALK ABOUT IT ANY MORE.

Bella: Okay, okay. Don't be so sensitive about it

Me (laughing out loud)....

Josie's Blessing

2011-04-11T21:37:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to post a few pics for those of you who couldn't be at Josie's Blessing. Josie wasn't very cooperative for pictures- but I did get a few decent ones.

I'm not sure who my photographer was that cut off Stephen's head...(Tammy... cough cough). No but seriously, Tammy was such a good sport taking a bunch of pictures for us. It's not her fault her subjects just aren't photogenic!

How cute is this picture of Nana and Papa??

Auntie Michelle giving Josie some love like only an auntie can.

Check out Natalie and Uncle Brett. This is such an awesome picture. I'm so glad Brett was able to come- and get acquainted with Natalie and with the Bark Scorpion : (

Look at these foxy ladies! I am so lucky to have been able to see Grandma Opal a few times in the last few years. Charlie and Josie don't know how lucky they are to have been held in her loving arms. She is still the spunky grandma you always knew. I hope I look that good at 90! Go Grandma! And let's not forget Natalie- the cutest, sweetest, best natured, smiliest baby ever!

Thanks to all of you who were able to make it out here to the hot hot desert for Josie's blessing. We love having family and were so grateful to be able to share this day with you. And for all those who couldn't be here, you were missed and we hope to see you soon. Mackenzie, Josie and I will be making a trip to Cali the last weekend in May so mark your calendars!!!

2011-03-15T15:15:00.000-07:00

This is why I wanted daughters...so I could have beautiful pictures like this. Thanks Judy!

SISTERS

2011-03-13T21:41:00.000-07:00

So I just realized that Josie is almost a month old and I haven't taken any pictures since I brought her home. Probably because I'm just in survival mode at this point, so I decided I better take at least a few while she's still a baby because before I know it, she'll be a "big girl" like Charlie.

Charlie likes to give Josie her "paci"... well she likes to pull it out of Josie's mouth, then try to give it back to her... backwards...

Charlie loves her blankie and minky SO MUCH that she has earned the nickname Linus. She loves to share her minky with Josie- usually while Josie is in the swing and Charlie basically smothers her with it.
Charlie does not like when Josie cries/screams and sometimes she'll cry right along with her. All in all, she is quite fascinated with her baby sister. She likes to give her kisses which is so cute to see.

New Blog

2011-02-28T23:40:00.000-08:00

Hey Family,

So a long time ago I promised to stop posting novels on this blog bumping off everyone else's posts and to start a blog for my family. Well I was in the process of writing a novel post on to this when I remembered about that promise. So...I started a blog for my family. It is obviously nothing fancy at this point. I just threw a couple of things together to make it work. I would like it to be mostly private so send me your email addresses so I can put you in as authorized users. For now, it is open to everyone, but I will be changing that soon. Here is the new address.

http://lisonbeelifelessons.blogspot.com/

-Matty

Missionary Skills...

2011-02-26T10:35:00.001-08:00

Had a great week working in the hospital. I had 2 spanish speaking patients that challenged my rusty spanish skills. The patients absolutely love students because we'll pretty much do anything for them because we have time. I got to sit in a patient's room and chat with her for quite awhile yesterday...she hadn't had any visitors and she was the nicest lady. We have the patient for two days in a row so by the second morning they are so happy to see us. It is a great ego boost for me because I really know little to nothing about being a nurse. But, I can sure shoot the breeze. It has been so amazing for me to realize that many of the skills that are so useful for nursing I learned while serving as a missionary. The Spanish is very helpful. IT's rusty, but it's getting better quickly and the patients are really appreciative that someone speaks their language and after establishing some sort of a repore with them, I can get them to teach me how to say things that I need to know. Perhaps the best skill that I learned though is just how to talk to people. I can take anybody, pretty much, and find something to talk to them about by watching their body language, observing what's important to them, and checking out their surroundings. And...inevitably, the spanish speakers ask where I learned to speak spanish which opens up doors to talk about all kinds of things. Loving it. Missions are fantastic for so many reasons...

BabyX and Kristin...

2011-02-16T16:14:00.001-08:00

So since not all of you (ahemm...Tammy) have access to Kristin's Facebook Page, she asked me to post the pics here.
Enjoy,
Stephen

Gotta love kids...at least they're honest

2011-02-16T15:50:00.000-08:00

Scenario: 7 AM. I have just returned from my morning workout. I am upstairs waking up the girls in their room.

Malia (very groggy) says, "Mom, can you carry me downstairs?"

Bella "Malia, she stinks."

Me, "What?"

Bella, "You stink. You smell like sweat."

Me, (to Malia) "She's right."

Bella (to me) "Finally you agree with me."

Malia "I don't care. Will you carry me?"

I don't know why this stuck with me. I thought it was funny that Bella would point out to me that I smelled. She thought it was crazy that I would agree with her. And Malia, oblivious and sleepy didn't care. That about sums up our mornings. I smell. Bella is quick to point out the obvious. And Malia, she just wants to go back to sleep.

Good news!

2011-01-30T17:59:00.000-08:00

Last week I passed of my catheter insertion and dressing change on wounds. You know what that means? If you are a patient at the hospital I am at, I could be the one sent in to do your catheter! Does that weird you out? Me too...but still excited about it! After a week and a half in nursing school! If I were a patient, I'd be frightened right now...

Neuroses

2011-01-24T13:26:00.000-08:00

My neurotic pet peeves-you know you want to know...
1. Mouth sounds-especially chewing. SICK!!!
2. Stuff on my counter. Just don't unless you don't want it anyore. I will dispose of it immediately.
3. Unfinished projects. If I start it I will finish in a timely matter.
4. Lost stuff. I will neurotically search until I find it and be completely obsessed until I do.
5. Stupid ?'s. Your teacher lied. There are stupid questions that do notmerit an answer.
6. Flakiness. If you say you will so something or be somewhere, then DO IT!!

Now of you want to tick me off, I have just td you how. So don't!

2011-01-20T20:13:00.000-08:00

First day of nursing school-I was so nervous that I prayed beforehand that I would find my new friend regina who I met at orientation...and what do you know? She was nervous too so she got there an hour early like me! Mirror mirror onthe wall, I am my mother after all! We all love mom because she gets places way early!!! An hour early was definitely overkill but better safe than sorry right? Nothing like a little tender mercy for the first day to let me know it will be okay! Hooray for nursing school!

Chubby vs Pregnant

2010-12-08T20:14:00.000-08:00

SCENE: The McDonald's counter

It's after 1 p.m. and I'm ordering lunch for Kol, Charlie and I after spending 4 hours making caramel pretzels for the Ward Relief Society Christmas Program this coming Thursday. Kol is in the play area. I sat Charlie on the counter so I could dig through my bottomless pit of a diaper bag and find my wallet.

FOREIGN EMPLOYEE: She's so cute! How old is she.

ME: Almost a year

FOREIGN EMPLOYEE: Do I even ask? Are you just chubby or are you pregnant again?

ME: (considering on telling her I'm just fat...) No, I'm pregnant again. Almost 7 months.

FOREIGN EMPLOYEE: Me- I have just one girl. Then she said something about children being a blessing, but I can't remember since I'm still taken back that she ACTUALLY just asked me that!

Have I mentioned lately how much I enjoy being pregnant? (I hope you can all taste the sarcasm on this one!)

A very merry unbirthday to me!

2010-11-17T18:41:00.001-08:00

As is tradition, Nana sent me a ride on toy for my 1st birthday... only my birthday isn't until December 10th and it arrived November 1st. My dad, I mean I, couldn't wait to open it- seriously! Once mommy told him what was in the box, he tore it open! I was VERY curious to see what was in that box.

I figured out what to do with the thing right away... and I pushed it right into the wall!
Once mom freed it from the wall, I pushed it right into the formal room, and right under the table. OK, so I haven't quite got this steering thing down yet, but it sure is helping motivate me to walk.
This is by far my most favorite of all my toys- I think it's Kol's favorite too. THANKS NANA!!!

Top ten reasons why the dentist is my personal HELL!

2010-11-11T11:18:00.000-08:00

Yes I said the world hell. You all know it's my favorite word. Now on to the details...

10. The completely wasted time. i.e., they numb you up and then let you sit for 45 minutes while they torture someone else and then halfway through the procedure have to numb you up some more because you are coming out of the anesthetic. And that's after you have waited in the waiting room for at least 1/2 hour.

9. The smell. Burning teeth. Anesthetic. Fluoride. That sick topical they put on. Mouthwash. Nasty dentist toothpaste. The vomit in the room next to you from a kid scared to death. The dentist's cologne or perfume as the case may be. It's all just generally repulsive.

8. The BORING white ceiling. Come on people, you know your patients are going to be staring at the ceiling...so put the t.v. up there or something.

7. No treats! Who goes through this kind of torture and isn't offered a treat for their effort?

6. The crying children! Poor kids are being drilled on, shot up, and scraped and cleaned and then probably chastized for not brushing whether they really have brushed or not. Some people just have sucky teeth...i.e., Malia.

5. Having to repeat over and over to myself, stop clinching your arms, legs and stomach. Stop it. Relax your hands. Relax your feet. Breathe...in and out through your nose. Slowly. Stop clinching your fists again. Relax. And literally, praying while in the chair that I'll be able to endure the torture for however long it takes.

4. The terrible neck kink resulting from laying almost upside down and turning your head in as many awkward positions you can think of. And also, the headrush I get when I stand up because my head has been lower than the rest of my body for the last hour.

3. The shots. Though welcome relief from whatever they're doing, sometimes I swear they're shooting that needle right up my nose. And if they hit a nerve on the way in..that jolting feeling. AHHHHHHHHH!

2. The lasting numbness. Currently, 1/2 of my face is numb all the way up to my eyebrow. And that includes my drooping eyelid. I'm HOT right now, I tell you, H-O-T- Hot. Rick said I look like a botched botox job and Jake said I look like that ipod app where you can distort people's faces.

1. THE NOISE. OH THE NOISE. The horrible drilling and high pitch squeal of all those instruments they use. The scraping when they're cleaning their teeth. Not even an ipod on full volume can drown out the horrid noises that come from that place.

And that folks is why when I see Hell, it will have under it in very large letters...Welcome to Clovis Dental.

Uglier still...

2010-11-11T11:16:00.001-08:00

Who knew it could get uglier?

Add insult to injury...

2010-11-09T13:30:00.000-08:00

My pinky toe is probably the ugliest thing ever...it just got uglier...and IT HURTS! YOu can't really tell from the picture but it is has doubled in size and the bruise extends up my foot and to the next toe...you should see what it looks like in between the toes! NASTY! Flip flops are my shoe option for the next little while...Why am I such a clutz?

Still getting cuter...

2010-11-01T18:54:00.001-07:00

She's even sweeter in person. Come see us!

Thanksgiving for our missionary

2010-10-31T20:16:00.000-07:00

I am preparing a thanksgiving package with turkey (jerky), cornbread mix, bacon bits, pkg mashed potatoes, pkg raspberry jello, canned raspberries , pkg dream whip, stuffing mix, canned green beans, toasted onion rings, napkins, paper plates etc and of course a note of how thankful I am for her decision to serve and just for her in general. Any ideas what else I could put in.....all help would be most appreciated. I am trying to keep it light and have some fun while providing some thanksgiving trimmings for her to enjoy. You are welcome to send anything you think would be fun to her directly or to me to be included in the package. I will mail it sometime mid november when I am sure her address wont change again. She is awaiting changes next week and doesnt know whether she is leaving or staying so I am holding off until I get her next letter to send anything but letters or emails. Thanks for all the support you give her, she loves you all very much. Love you.

Who you callin' a pig???

2010-10-30T21:44:00.000-07:00

OINK OINK OINK... I'm the little piggy with the curly tail! No really, there is a curly tail on the back of that beanie! So for Halloween this year, I decided to make my little piggy... well... a piggy. I couldn't think of anything more fitting for her at this time.

This is how Charlie rolls at the trunk or treat (the fine print says "Please don't feed the animals". A la la la la. Stephen even downloaded piggy noises to my ipod and put the doc station in the wagon (and covered it with the quilt) and blared pig noises as we strolled around the trunk or treat.

That's right folks, Stephen and I got into the holiday spirit as well and dressed up as PIG FARMERS! I even blacked out one of my front teeth (did you know they sell tooth paint specifically for that?). It was quite a conversation piece- some of the girls were very worried for me..."What if it doesn't come off and you show up like that to church tomorrow??"
Needless to say, we were a hit! We even decorated our car for the trunk or treat in the same theme, with scarecrows and hay bales and pumpkins. It was a great night... except for one tragedy... Charlie arrived home with only ONE piggy booty on her foot. The other is MIA. We searched the church parking lot and the baseball fields where the Chili Cook off was, but no luck. Here's hoping someone happened across it and will bring it to us at church tomorrow... sigh...

Update...

2010-10-20T13:04:00.000-07:00

Don't mess with me. I'll wear you down until I get what I want...and that's what it took to get nursing school postponed. Success! Sort of, I mean. I would love to start nursing school in the winter but since that isn't an option, I'll take fall over summer any day. Who wants to spend all day in school during the summer time?

Me vs. the Director of Fresno City College Nursing School

2010-10-17T14:47:00.001-07:00

That's right...tomorrow I go convince this lady that I should get to defer my summer enrollment in the nursing program...I'm nervous. I wish I knew whether or not I got in to the other nursing program but nonetheless...I have to try, right? I'm bringing some tobasco sauce and onions in my purse so if necessary I can put some in my eyes and create some tears. (I'm not much of a crier, you know). So, wish me luck...and if you care to, pray for me!

Embracing the inner craft mama

2010-10-14T19:18:00.001-07:00

I have been crafty lately! Who knew? This is what I've been up to. The best part is that I had all of this fabric already. It cost me nothing. And that's about how much I like to pay.

These babies are for the girls. We learned to do this at our Not Super Saturday (not allowed to have those any more). They are the cutest rag bags ever and perfect for church bags.

I love love love headbands for the girls. I make them every which way and to match whatever outfit they're wearing the next day. It is so much fun! And, it is the only thing the girls will keep in their hair. Again...stuff I already had on hand except the headbands which I got 3 for $1 at the Dollar Store.

And finally...these cute twirly skirts for the girls. They are going to be "witches" or something like that...I'm not finished making their t-shirts cute. I'm thinking ruffles...rosettes...the possibilities are endless. The skirts are my first attempt at any clothing item for the girls. I just followed an online tutorial (free). You can't tell, but there are PLEATS people...PLEATS! THIS is definitely why I had girls! My poor boys are getting the shaft on the crafty cuteness but I don't think they mind too much...they wouldn't look good in headbands anyway.

Malia at her finest...

2010-10-01T22:41:00.000-07:00

We were at a football game and Malia had brought old blankey and new blankey. After several minutes, she ran over to me and handed me her blankets and said, "Mom, pretend like these are Sierra's okay?" I said, "why?" She responded..."because my kindergarden friend is here."

SO...not only does she get that she is too old to be dragging blankies around, but she also found an innocent skape goat! Sierra is her little friend who is only 4...

Did you know babies like age appropriate toys???

2010-09-29T22:23:00.000-07:00

For your amusement, this is Charlie licking the airplane window. She has some obsession with licking things, usually my kitchen appliances, the table and the sliding glass door but on this trip she took it to a whole new level licking the floor of the Hertz Rental Car place at the airport. She's got some unidentified lip fungus.... not yet.... but if she keeps this up she just might!

The Texans introduced Charlie to something she had never seen before... AGE APPROPRIATE BABY TOYS!!! She was in heaven! She stayed self entertained for a while playing with those things. Then Stephen and I had an epiphany! Maybe we should buy our baby some toys of her own!

She has toys people! She has rattles, plastic links, stuffed animals, beaded necklaces... OK, so they aren't exactly age appropriate anymore. They were when we bought them 5-6 months ago! We usually just stick her up in the loft and let her play with whatever toys the boys have out- the marble track (minus the marbles), Kol's train sets and plastic tea set, wooden blocks... you know. The usual. But she doesn't stay entertained for long. Wonder why???

So after we got home from Texas, I went to Toys R Us and picked up a couple more appropriate toys for Charlie. Do you think she likes them??

Today's rant.....with pics

2010-09-23T17:19:00.001-07:00

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times...not really, but there have definitely been some of those moments this week...Here's what I've been up to...

What the...? This folks was my living room on Sunday night. What did you do for family home evening? We unloaded every cabinet, drawer and shelf in our kitchen and put it in the living room just for fun! Actually, pest control was coming Monday morning so we enlisted everybody's help to unload the kitchen. On MOnday morning when the kids asked how they were supposed to pack their lunches, I told them to go treasure hunting in the living room and see what they could find. They looked at me like I was crazy. I think I am. But, after the pest control guy came, I had to clean everything, top to bottom, and then put everything back. I think it might've taken months, but Elizabeth and Karen came to my rescue and helped me put everything back. My kitchen has never looked better...and no more critters! I hope.

Kindergarden is hard work. I have come downstairs from folding laundry or whatever and found Malia passed out on the couch two days in a row! It is fantastic! She is loving kindergarden. Her teachers have a great sense of humor and are very good to her. Her bus driver said to me the other day, "Your daughter is very social." Yes indeed. She has to wave goodbye and hug all her little friends when she gets off the bus, frequently leaving the bus driver holding in the stop sign in the middle of the street while she says her farewells. Adorable. And yes, she still sucks her thumb...very loudly, I might add. She likes to get in a few good sucks before she goes to school and then hides her blankets so she'll know where to find them when she gets home. I, of course, put her blankets away, every day to try and discourage the thumb sucking, but what can you do?

.
Shameless plug...

Check out these cute blankets. We have so many different ones right now, it's hard to choose. So, plan ahead for the holidays and send all your friends to our blog (www.minkyandmore.blogspot.com) and order away!

And, it is the season of fall sports which, for us, includes cross country (Carter), football (Jake), and soccer (Bella, Carter, and Jake). Which means...practice for an hour after school Monday, Tuesday and Thursday for Jake and Carter, and six soccer practices each week...Monday-Thursday. Friday the boys have cross country meets and football games. Saturdays we have three soccer games...and did I mention Rick is helping coach Jake's team? It is crazy around here...

Last, but not least...

You may have heard...I got into nursing school! But...they decided to go ahead and enroll me in the summer session. Not what I was planning on. And they decided to disallow any postponing...meaning I couldn't just say I'll take the fall semester instead. It's summer or start all over again in the lottery process. I am still waiting to hear from one other college for the January semester and then I will decide what to do...I was so elated to have gotten in...still am. Just not sure what exactly to do about it.

That's all folks. Now you won't wonder why I don't blog very often in all my free time....or lack thereof.

SNAKES AND SNAILS AND PUPPY DOG TAILS

2010-09-22T11:42:00.000-07:00

That's what little boys are made of....

That's why I'm glad I'm having another GIRL!!! Stephen was very disturbed at the thought that this baby might be a boy. He did not want another boy. He's pretty smitten with Charlie and I think he realizes that girls really are the way to go : ) Although I wanted a girl for convenience purposes, I can honestly say I wouldn't have cried if this one was a boy. But it's not, so I'll have a happy husband and Charlie will hopefully have the best playmate in the world!

Update

2010-09-12T15:44:00.000-07:00

on Natalie. Yep, getting cuter by the minute!

If this didn't give you your fix, there's more on my blog. http://tammy-braun.blogspot.com/ Love you guys!

Advertisment

2010-09-05T20:17:00.001-07:00

Know anyone who wants to buy a nice house in Dallas?

Charlie's Long Awaited 6 month Pics are Finally Here!!

2010-09-02T10:31:00.000-07:00

So I know she is almost 9 months old, but I didn't get the pictures taken until she was nearly 7 months old, and then the photographer went on vacation for weeks so it took a little longer than I may have wanted to get these back, but I love them and they were well worth the wait. I love the photographer, she has such a great, vintage style. Too bad none of you live out here, because I would totally recommend her. I love you too Judy : )

I ordered some 4x6s for anyone in the family that might want one to post on their fridge or wherever, I don't want to force them on you though. So if you'd like a pic (don't worry sisters and mom, I'm already planning on sending you one regardless) speak up!!

Fishing...

2010-09-01T17:37:00.000-07:00

So, how do you think it would feel to have one of these babies stuck in the knuckle of your finger? If you want to know, ask Carter...see that hook with the 3 prongs, yeah, it was in his finger. After I got it out of his pants, I semi-tried to get it out of his finger and realized the barbs on there would not come out without ripping his finger apart...So, off to the e.r. The staff was all very interested in the taking out process which include pushing it all the way through his finger and out the other side. DISGUSTING!!!! I let him take the day off school...thought maybe he could use some chillin'....

I'm in love...

2010-08-31T22:08:00.000-07:00

with this headband I ordered from Etsy. I was hoping to be able to duplicate it, but let's be honest-- I'm not that talented!

Why teachers teach kindgergarden...

2010-08-31T18:42:00.000-07:00

Today Malia came home from school and said that a boy in her class raised his hand to answer a question the teacher had asked. The teacher called on him and he said, "Mrs. Crouch, I love you."

That, my friends is why people teach kindergarden. Because every kindergardner loves their teacher!

Announcing...

2010-08-28T21:06:00.001-07:00

Miss Natalie Catherine.

Come by and see her pics on our blog. http://tammy-braun.blogspot.com/

Things you don't expect to come out of your 5-year-old's mouth

2010-08-18T19:54:00.000-07:00

Malia...while playing...started singing "Lover, love, you don't treat me no good no more..."

What?

And...yesterday Rick had a mole removed and he has a big bandage on his back. Malia was asking him about it and he told her that a doctor cut off a big piece of sking. Malia turned to me and said, "Mom, the doctor's not going to do that to me, right? I said, "Right." She continued, "because they only do that to really old people like daddy, right?"

Oh Malia...such a charmer.

You asked for it...

2010-08-16T20:50:00.000-07:00

Dear Kristin...this one's for you.

***Note...you are not allowed to read this post unless you comment on Rick's post below first!****

Summer has been a blur. It started out with me dreading the very thought of having to entertain my children for a full three months. Our summer officially ends in 6 days. If I am not a drooling, blithering idiot in a straight jacket by that point it will be some kind of miracle...here's what we've done this summer (with pics) in or out of order. Don't be picky people. This is a monumental post...

So we started out summer with a serious routine...reading, math, chores, etc. Then we'd go to Reagan for their free summer lunch where we'd meet up with friends and usually trade a kid or two (or three or four...). The routine mostly held up through five days of hot and sweaty scout camp which I got to attend. If I never have to do that again, it will be TOO SOON! People, I am not cut out for that kind of torture. It was hot hot hot and there was no shade. Since I had a group of boys by myself, there wasn't even anyone to commiserate (I mean chat) with...

Our routine went downhill after we went on our first adventure...Family Camp at Shaver Lake. It was a week full of food, friends, and fun. The kids went tubing, fishing, swimming, kayaking, bug hunting, hiking, and anything else you can think of in the woods. We had karaoke night, skit night, talent night (highlighted by Bella's dance moves), movie night and fireworks!

Mackenzie and Jake and Carter with their fish. Papa was even crazy...I mean nice enough to gut it for them so we could take it home and eat it. Too bad I conveniently "forgot" it in the freezer up there so we didn't actually eat the thing...

This is the huge water trampoline that really is more of a platform for wrestling...the kids just try to throw each other off of it. It's good fun.

Family camp at Shaver is my favorite week of the summer. The kids are happy to be dirty and disgusting and eating junk the whole time. And, best of all...I hardly see any of them! It's fantastic!

We were home for about a week and then we went jetting off in the middle of the day to celebrate mom's birthday with her. WE went to a place called "Shave it" where they have icees (how do you spell that anyway?) and ice cream and mixes of the two. It was TASTY! Best of all I got to experience the cool down of the evenings in Valencia. I had forgotten that it cooled off anywhere...it certainly doesn't in Fresno!

We went back to Fresno for one day so I could teach and then took off for our adventure to Texas. I will spare most of you the details...but in a nutshell...the car overheated 50 miles out of blithe so we got to drive with the heater on at 110 degrees for an hour or so. We did make it to Arizona that night where we spent time with Charlie...quite possibly the most adorable baby around...oh, and her mom and siblings too. It was great fun...except that you spontaneously combust when you open the front door and the pool is the equivalent of a warm bath...Next stop was Midland Texas...we drove the 15 hours with the "check engine" light on for 12 of the 15 hours. Luckily the car eventually made it to Texas the next day where we quickly took it to a mechanic. One timing belt, a water pump, some breaks and some filters and a lot of money later, we were all set to go.

Texas was lots of fun...as long as you like living in a sauna. It was high time we spent some time with the Texan cousins and let the kids get to know each other all over again...

We had to find indoor activities...so we went bowling with some free tickets we got from the library. The kids loved it but were sincerely disappointed that there were no candy machines. Seriously????

We spent some time with Rosie. Her only words to me were "No want it" (except when I fed her peanut butter directly out of the jar against her mother's wishes). She did, however, really like my kids. She has always liked Jake and she seemed to take to him right away again.

We got to celebrate the boys' birthdays with the cousins. Watch out world...they got bb guns. They have had a great time shooting targets with them...cans, cardboard, the swingset, our apple tree...whatever. They do, however, always wear their safety goggles so no one loses an eye...well, at least neither one of them.

We spent a lot of time in the pool. Seriously too hot to do anything else. Good thing there were plenty of pools to choose from.

And we went to the zoo. It was so hot, we lasted like 10 minutes before we found an air conditioned spot and ate lunch. Then we dragged our sorry buns over to the water park thing where the kids, at least, could get wet. I think our total time there was like 1 1/2 hours...definitely worth the $50 we paid to get in...or not. At least this giraffe exhibit was super cool. Check out the close-up!

The trip home was something to remember. After one hour of driving, the car started sputtering like it might explode or something. It was fantastic since I was alone with the kiddies in the middle of NOWHERE. I just kept calling dad, asking him this and that, and praying that we'd make it to Albuquerque, which we eventually did. We were watched over along the way and helped by a mechanic who took pity on us and fixed our car for free. What a blessing and an answer to prayers. We made it home to Valencia in time to celebrate Carter's birthday...

This is Malia's friend Elizabeth whom she met at the game. They had a grand time jumping on the benches, and walking up and down the stairs and flirting with the guys behind us. Yes, I did say flirting. Oh Malia...anyhow, they really took it to the next level when they decided to climb the fence at the top of the pavilion which was overlooking the parking lot. I have never seen so many people move so fast...security guards, parents, helpful onlookers...whatever, they had it under control the whole time.

Elizabeth's mom caught two balls during warm-ups! Jake, Carter, Brett, and Pops were all trying to do the same, but no luck. Carter got really close to catching one of the one that Elizabeth's mom caught so she gave it to Carter! What a fantastic birthday present!

Carter's request for his birthday was to celebrate with a Dodger game and to make Brett's special hot dogs with him. Brett's a good sport and we stayed an extra day in Valencia so they could make their pickle and cheese filled, bacon wrapped, heart attack in a bun hot dogs. We even brought two home for Rick...

We got to be in Valencia for Bella's friends' birthday too...it was fun to catch up with our fabulous Valencia friends. Man I miss them! It is so great to live close enough to go back often.

The days in between have been filled with Carter begging to go fishing and me being nagged enough that I end up taking him where he tangles his line in moss or trees and breaks it at least twice...but he's never deterred, even though he hasn't caught a single fish since family camp. The kids always want to have their friends over and we are lucky to have such wonderful friends. I should just wake up in the morning and start dialing to see who is free for the day. It makes my kids so much happier.

Our final trip was to Huntington Beach this past weekend. WE took three days to spend with Rick's dad. We went to the beach but we weren't prepared for the cold breeze so we only lasted an hour. The boys will tell you it was all worth it because they got to see some guys fishing and reel in a couple of sand sharks, a baby shark and miscellaneous other fish. Carter was completely in heaven. He even got to touch the baby sharks! The apartment we stayed in was fantastic. The boys spent most of the time out at this putting green with lots of holes to practice their golf game and we enjoyed the pool and hot tub. I forgot how cold it can be other places in the summer. Seriously, I would've loved it had I thought to bring a sweatshirt!

And now...we are home. I have one small overnight trip planned before the week is over...can't stay home more than a week in a row...must keep moving! And that's summer in a recap! Now that you are all sleeping and bored out of your minds, at least you aren't wondering if we are dead or alive...I will post more in smaller doses about some things that I've learned this summer...

Now Accepting Recommendations for Mid-Life Crisis Marathon Playlist

2010-08-16T20:37:00.000-07:00

What's with men having their midlife crises in their 50s? Are they really so deluded as to think that they'll live to 100? I'm fully aware that I won't live anywhere near that long, given the current quality of my memory (Michelle can tell you I'm lucky to remember what I had for breakfast any given day). I'm sure that sometime around age 70 I'll forget who and where I am, piss my pants, slip in it and crack my head open and die. Given that likely scenario, I figure I might as well go ahead and have my midlife crisis now, while I still have the energy to do something good with it.

Men in midlife crisis mode are usually trying to feel younger. Mess around with a younger woman, get a sports car, wear a toupee. I don't have the the money or inclination to do either of the first two, and the third only makes you look like a loser, which to me defeats the whole purpose of having a midlife crisis. So I'm going to focus on ways of physically feeling younger. It's easy to start feeling old, even if you're not that advanced in years, especially after you pass 30. You get lazy, spend too long at the desk, put on some weight, add on to the love handles, trot down a flight of stairs one day and say to yourself, "that never used to jiggle." Been there, done that.

So for my midlife crisis I'm going to run a marathon - the whole 26.2. I figure, what better way to feel younger than to get in better shape than I've ever been in life?

Now to the purpose of this post. I have never been a big music listener, so I can use some help putting together a playlist for my iPod to listen to during the marathon. (Eye of the Tiger begins to lose its beneficial impact after about the 8th repetition.) So give me your suggestions, your favorite workout songs (or what you imagine would be your favorite workout songs if you were to ever get to the gym). Something uptempo to help keep a good pace, and that will inspire and keep that adrenaline pumping!!

Do we really sing THAT bad?

2010-08-16T19:57:00.001-07:00

So we are having FHE tonight, and I decide to use the "Life in Christ" binder and tell the kids a couple stories from it because I don't feel like they know enough about Jesus when he was alive on the earth.

After opening prayer, we (mostly me and Stephen because Mackenzie is too cool to sing and the boys don't know the song) sing "Tell Me the Stories of Jesus". It is one of my favorite primary songs from way back when I was in Primary. Well, we are only on the second line and Charlie (who was previously happy) bursts into tears. All I have to say is, do we really sing THAT bad? I mean, I know no choir director is going to come knocking on my door begging me to join- no matter how short they are on choir members, but does my out of tune pipes really bring tears to my baby's eyes?!?!

You are Very Boring

2010-08-15T20:04:00.001-07:00

Dear Michelle~

I'm tired of looking at the same post for the last month. Your blog is boring me and I depend on others for my entertainment. I know you have been busy this summer, so start posting pics and talking about all the fun places you've been.

Sincerely,

Really bored in AZ

Top ___ Reasons Mom is Underrated

2010-07-15T08:23:00.000-07:00

OK folks, it is Mom's b-day. Happy b-day Mom! Tammy is officially excused from her normal duties of starting the birthday blog. She had some lame excuse like having kidney stones. Big W. Anyway, to mom. Over the years, I have thought so many times about how underrated mom is. She is seriously a rock star. And I'm not talking about her energy drink addiction - as in you are what you drink. Though that may be true, she is a rock star in so many other ways. So, I thought maybe this year we could start a running list of cool things about mom. Even better if they are cool things not everyone may know about. So, let 'em fly...

1. Totally self-sacrificing - for starters she gave up at least 7 years of her life (as in full years) pregnant. She gave up many more in child care.

2. Great taxi driver - seriously, how many ball games, practices, auditions, etc. did she take us to?

3. Amazing listener

4. Disturbingly in tune - can I say iron pills, Franco puking on me, etc.

5. Great missionary, even though she's never been on a mission - yet

6. Ridiculously smart - 9 years old in 9th grade. Seriously???

7. Supportive - she thinks we can do anything we set our minds to. Let's not disabuse her of that notion.

8. Awesome grandma - she loves the grandkids like nobody's business.

9. So good at cooking/baking that she makes Dolly Madison jealous

10. Runs interference really well - you know what I'm talking about. We all did things we knew dad would kill us for. Thankfully, he didn't find out about all of them. (Dad, don't read this item.)

11. Energetic - did I mention 9 kids, a bunch of grandkids, (maybe a rock star or two)?

12. Never needs to be the center of attention. Some of us our loud mouths and clamor for it. She is always content to let us have it and to enjoy seeing us get the attention.

(Back to work. List to be continued.)

Tahoe Monkey Bar Mishap

2010-06-28T11:35:00.001-07:00

Since Mark and Carrie are on the road, in pursuit of a new home and a new life in Texas and won't have access to a computer for a little while, I'm posting on their behalf.

Our little Monkey Aurora proved she was more human than monkey while playing with Spencer on the monkey bars in Tahoe. She suffered a "little" fall that left her arm a little bent out of shape- literally! Poor Carrie had to navigate through the hospital system in an unfamiliar state because Aurora's arm required surgical correction that night. As luck would have it, Mark's flight got him there in time to make it for her surgery so Carrie and Aurora didn't have to go it alone- and Mark being more comfortable in the hospital setting, could ask the necessary questions.

Aurora had surgery late Thursday night and was released so Mark and Carrie could make it back to California in time to meet the company that was delivering their moving truck.

Aurora was up and playing and "back to normal" in no time, and everyone got a turn signing her "cast"... everyone except me that is!

For more details on the story, feel free to contact Mark and Carrie.

Rice Cereal Anyone???

2010-06-11T19:43:00.000-07:00

Today was Charlie's 6 month appointment and the doctor finally gave us the OK to feed her solids. Mackenzie and I had fun shopping for baby food (including Prunes which the Dr. Yin recommended I feed her next, after she tolerates the Rice Cereal for a week).

She had her first real feeding this afternoon and this was how it all went down.

Doesnt she make Rice Cereal look so YUMMY???

At last.....I have arrived at true motherhood...

2010-06-01T17:29:00.000-07:00

May I present, my first "hate" letter from my lovely, articulate daughter Bella. Enjoy...

Summer Time!

2010-05-23T12:27:00.001-07:00

It's summer (at least here in phoenix it is!). The weather is so beautiful right now. Yesterday the kids decided to go for a swim. Even Charlie got to bust out her bathing suit for the first time.

She does not like the taste of the pool water~ too salty! And she doesn't like to float on her back either. But all in all, I think she enjoyed her first dip in the pool.

Malia

2010-05-19T08:34:00.000-07:00

Setting: I just got home from a morning run and was cooling down outside. Malia came and sat on my lamp and put her hand on my chest.

Malia: Dad, I can feel your heart beeping.

Me: It's beeping pretty hard, is it?

Malia: Yes, it goes beep, beep, beep.

A little bit of Charlie

2010-05-03T14:13:00.001-07:00

Oh how I love Charlie's jumperoo! She needed something to entertain her, and she was tired of laying down to play in her pack and play. She wants to sit up and see what's going on around her. She's not quite tall enough to touch the ground and bounce yet, but she'll get there soon enough. I'm not sure she'll ever be able to boing as fast and crazy as Mackenzie did in her exersaucer, but we'll keep the video camera handy just in case.

Guess who loves her blanky?!??!

And finally, guess who FINALLY learned to roll over? She's a rolling machine now.

Dear Costco...

2010-04-20T15:53:00.000-07:00

...thank you for switching from diet Coke to diet Pepsi. You see, I hate diet Pepsi and now I have no reason to go visit you any more. I used to like to wander around with Malia, and a diet Coke in my hand, and just check out what was available for me to spend my hard earned money on. Now, I have no incentive. You see, by abandoning my life elixir, you have abandoned me and now, I will do the same to you. So goodbye Costco...thank you for saving me money...

Random things you didn't know about me...

2010-04-14T21:18:00.000-07:00

I'm super crabby in the morning...but you knew that already. So, in order to get rid of the worst of the crabbiness, I must exercise before the children get up in the morning. I love to sleep. I hate to get up early. In order to minimize the problems with those things (the sleeping, not wanting to get up, and having to exercise early), I wear my workout clothes to bed. That's right folks, I go to bed looking like I'm going to the gym...and wearing double sports bras so the girls stay in place while I run the next morning. It's true. Rick is a lucky man, don't you agree? Who wouldn't want to sleep next to me?

My unofficial day off...

2010-04-12T14:19:00.000-07:00

In 11 years of marriage, ten of those with children, I have never gone back to bed after the children get up...NEVER. Well, there's always time for a first. This weekend's festivities combined with the weight of various decisions that need to be made caused a first for me. I dropped the children off, turned on the house alarm ('cause I'm paranoid like that) and promptly went back to bed! And, I actually fell asleep...until 11:00! It was a beautiful morning. The house is a mess, laundry needs doing, beds need making, but I have to say, I feel pretty darn good. It's cloudy outside and a perfect day to crawl back in bed. So I say...Good for me! Now when my children get home, I can greet them happily as I now feel well rested and ready for the day. Never mind the fact that the day is mostly over. However, I have plans for dinner, an FHE more or less prepared and intentions to clean later in the week. After all, the mess isn't going anywhere, right? So, Happy Monday to you...hope your day was equally fulfilling!

Say what????

2010-04-11T00:36:00.000-07:00

We just returned from a trip to San Jose where Jake competed in the State finals for Destination Imagination. It has been a lot of preparation and a lot of fun and today was no exception. Their skit was FANTASTIC! They did a great job and enjoyed every minute of it, including some impromptu additions. They are a wonderful group of kids. Anyway, we joked that we didn't want them to win at the regional level because we didn't want to have to practice more and then drive all the way to San Jose for the state finals. Well, they won first at regionals which is how we ended up in San Jose today. We then set our hopes at getting third place at State so the kids would medal, but not advance to globals in Tennessee...well, they outdid themselves and won first place today! Those kids are animals! Now how in the world are we going to work out Tennessee? It is expensive...about $1250 per person. It would be so much fun but there are lots of logistics involved...what to do, what to do...

Either way, great job guys! WE are proud of you!!!!

Sweet success...

2010-04-09T21:10:00.000-07:00

This morning, I found a fantastic recipe for apple bran muffins that I wanted to try...so, I mixed it all up and put it outside in the solar oven, went to take a shower and get ready, came back, and voila! They were done! Yummy. Malia and I enjoyed them very much. It has to be one of my new favorite recipes. And, then, this afternoon, I had some extra kids coming home with Carter so I popped some "cookie bars" in the solar oven. They loved watching them cook outside and were absolutely amazed that it worked and they tasted great! I am loving this solar oven. It is the most fun ever...

And tonight, we are missing somebodies...a cute little 4-year-old and her bucky tooth smile and her daddy...who have ditched us for Valencia this weekend. The rest of us will be heading up for Jake's Destination Imagination competition in San Jose this weekend. Should be fun...the boys have to leave by 5:00 AM. Just what I was hoping to do on a Saturday morning...Luckily, Bella and I don't have to leave til 9:00 but I still have to get up and drive the boys to where they need to be at a RIDICULOUS hour.

And lest you think my children are always at odds with each other...Jake offered to let Bella sleep in his room so she wouldn't be alone tonight and she accepted. He even made her up a nice little bed. See...sometimes they're nice to each other.

Maybe we're doing something right...maybe

2010-04-08T22:10:00.000-07:00

Tonight, one of my children came down to tell me he had told a little white lie earlier in the evening. He was in tears. It was a silly little fib, one that didn't really matter in the scheme of things. I was so proud that he chose to come and tell me and that he felt so bad about it. I don't want my kids to feel like they have to lie to me and I'm glad he came clean. Earlier in the day, Malia and her friend were walking suspiciously downstairs with their hands behind their backs. I asked them to come back and show me what was in their hands. Turns out it was valentine's candy that no one cared about, but they thought they were being sneaky and taking it. When I explained to Malia that I didn't care if they ate the Valentines candy, I just didn't want her sneaking around, she seemed so relieved. I try to pick my battles and eating leftover Valentine's candy found who knows where...not one of my battles. But, I hope Malia learned that she doesn't always have to hide things from me because I just might not freak out. She is very sensitive to whether I am mad at her or not and she said to her friend, "See, my mom's not mad at me. It's okay if we eat them." Little lessons that will hopefully translate when bigger issues are at stake...

Can I fire myself?

2010-04-06T21:01:00.001-07:00

Today was one of those days...when I want to fire myself as a mother and a wife...before I do irreversible damage. Seriously. Maybe I should get a job...one that pays, that is. The only thing redeeming about this day is that it is about to end. That's it folks. And there you have the long and short of it. Oh, and nothing like cub scouts to top it off...where my own son is the shining star of why we have a "Behavior Code." Carter has lost every privilege he ever thought of having until he turns 18 or until I forget this night ever happened. Is it tomorrow yet?

What's new...

2010-03-28T21:37:00.000-07:00

Just thought you all would want to know...I got a solar oven for my birthday and we baked in it today! Jake made us some cupcakes and they were fabulous. Nothing burns in the solar oven. I got distracted with the last batch and left them in WAY too long and came back to find them just perfect...waiting to be eaten. I'm going to be experimenting this week with dinners...should be fun. The weather has been great but I hear rain is on the way so we'll see how it goes...

Thank you for calling me on my birthday my fabulous siblings/siblings-in-laws and parents...it really is what I look forward to the most...talking to most of my family in one day. Thank you for remembering!

Rough Day

2010-03-15T22:41:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I have actually posted anything, but something happened the other day that made me think, and seeing how I am the only person in the world without their own blog, I thought I could share it with you and take advantage of Michelle's.

So I was sitting at work on Friday like any other day. Mom had called around 9:00 and I was talking to her on the phone. Then my work phone rang and it was Lisa but I didn't answer. Then within a couple of minutes it rang again. So I got off the phone with Mom and answered the call from Lisa.

About two weeks ago, Lisa had a contact replaced. It had been bothering her so she set an appointment with the eye doctor, this last Friday. She goes in and he cant see anything wrong with it and says everything looks fine. Then she mentions that Adelle has a little white spot in her eye. It has been there ever since she was born. It is a very small white spot in the middle of the black part of her right eye. We noticed it soon after she was born but never thought anything of it. Well, Lisa explained it to her optometrist and he said he would take a look at it. Because Adelle is only 5 months old, it is difficult for her to keep her eyes still for very long. He talked with Lisa about it and said, you need to get in and get this looked at right away. A white spot in the eye is a symptom of Retinoblastoma. I can't remember if he told Lisa or if she read it online that it is the number one killer of children under the age of three or something like that.

It is amazing how quickly your whole life can get turned upside down. Lisa went home and called to set up an appointment with the specialist. After being pushed from one person to the next (because they don't want you to see anyone without a referral) they are able to get us an appointment at 2:30 pm that day. So then came the fun part, waiting.

My thoughts were anywhere other than work. I thought about a huge range of possibilities. I thought everything from maybe she will lose an eye or maybe we are going to lose her. Then I thought, well maybe this will be a great missionary opportunity. Maybe it will give us the opportunity to teach everyone about the resurrection. Maybe it will help us to share the gospel with someone. In my head I was running through the principles that we have all been taught. She will be saved because she is a child. We will still be able to raise her in the millennium, and (don't take this the wrong way) but maybe it will be easier then because we won't be so tired in the middle of the night. (I know that probably sounds horrible, but she has had a rough couple of weeks lately sleeping...or not sleeping for that matter) I thought, life is going too smoothly right now. My job is good. My studying is going well. We are all healthy. Our callings are good. Everything was too perfect, its about time that something came along to keep us humble. I thought maybe she will just lose one eye. Would she have to have a glass eye? (Please, not Mr. Pletta) I thought, had I just been totally clueless? Had I missed any promptings telling me that the spot in her eye was a problem? Am I already a failure as a father?

Anyways, I was doing pretty well for a while. In my mind, I was going to be strong and it was going to be fine I could handle it. Then, I had to go tell my boss that I needed to leave early to go to the appointment. My boss (who is in my Stake presidency) is a really great guy. I really love working with him and he is a good friend too. So of course he asked, whats up? why do you need to leave early. So then I had to explain it to him. Putting the situation into verbal words was so much more difficult than I had imagined.

So I left and we got home and Adelle was fast asleep when I got there. I saw the tiny little baby sleeping on Lisa and my heart just hurt. She is such a beautiful little girl. She is a good baby. We have had a couple of rough nights, but she is a good baby. So we go to the doctor's and just sit, waiting for a while.

Neither Lisa or I had much to talk about or much to say because we were both some combination of nervous, scared, etc. We get called in and sit down and the doctor comes in. Then he puts on some crazy devices to help him get a better look at her eye. He looks and doesn't say much for a while. Then he says he needs to dilate her eyes so he can get a better look. While he was getting the stuff together to do that, Lisa mentions what the other doctor said and he says, oh no, that is not at all what that is. That is not even in my thought process. This looks like something on the lens and is completely unrelated. After further exams, he determined that it is just a little genetic defect on the lens of her eye. He compared it to a little water spot. It is not anything that will grow or change or ever be a problem in the future. He said that as soon as she is old enough to have her vision tested, he would expect her to have 20/20 vision. It should not affect her vision in any way. Wow, the relief that we felt coming out of there was indescribable. We are thinking that optometrist wasn't able to get a good view of it because Adelle was looking around so much. It is difficult to see unless you are staring right at her. Even then, the reflection or glare of the light off of her eye often prevents you from being able to see it. When you see her you probably won't even notice it unless you remember this story.

I was telling this guy in my ward, my oldest child is not even 2 1/2 and I have already had several experiences with them to make sure I know how precious they are. Between Lisa's bed rest with Sarah for 4 months, Lisa's phone call telling me to meet her at the emergency room after Sarah's seizures, the miscarriage in our bedroom, and now this, I am gaining a great appreciation for my special little girls. Then I thought about Carter's recent experience too. And Kristin's recent experience with Charlie. Luckily for all of us, things have all turned out well. We may have had some scares, but at least we are all still around to talk about it. These experiences will all serve as little reminders of just how precious these little children are. One day everything is fine, and one day it is not. You just never know how long you or they will have. I am definitely not complaining. So far I feel very lucky that I have had these difficult experiences without anything really major going wrong. I got home that night and gave Sarah the biggest hug I had given her in a long time. The hugs just aren't the same after experiences like this. They mean so much more. I just wanted to tell you all to make sure you give your kids an extra hug before they go to bed. Even if nothing ever goes wrong, they will all get old and move out eventually so we have to enjoy them while we have them.

-Matty

P.S. When I realized how long post was, I officially decided it is time to start my own blog so that I don't take up so much space on this one and so you only have to read my mindless dribble if you really want to, not just so you can get to the next post. So I don't really have a name yet, but it will definitely be a private blog though, so I will be in touch for email addresses to tell you when I get a blog.

Some Malia moments...

2010-03-10T16:34:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile. malia has one liners ALL THE TIME but I haven't posted any lately...so here's two. Sunday naps are my all time favorite thing to do. So, this Sunday I asked malia if she wanted to take a nap with me and she said yes. So, we crawl in my bed, her hogging my black pillow, and settle in. She happily sucked her thumb for like 5 minutes and then looked at me and said, "Mom, I'm just going to take a short nap today, okay?" I said, "Okay." Then she said, "Mom, what time is it?" I looked at the clock and told her what time it was. She looked at me and said, "Oh good, that's what time my nap is over."

Nice.

A couple of days ago, I bought her a cute new spring dress for her school pictures. I showed it to her and she loved it. Then, today on the way home from preschool, she said, "Mom, I ordered a sparkly dress for my pictures, not a PINK dress."

Really, she ORDERED a dress? From where????

Demented conversations between Mother and Daughter

2010-03-08T20:17:00.000-08:00

This is for those of you who understand Kristin (she has no idea I'm posting this).
Background: Charlie drinks a formula blend. We mix formula from two large 32oz canisters, we call "jugs", ones a standard Lipil formula, the other is a Lipil with rice starch to help keep Charlies spit-up to a minimum. We cant give her the straight rice mix because it gives her too much gas. So tonight, Mackenzie decides to help with feeding Charlie....

Kenz: "How do I make her formula?"
Kristin: "Pull out the two jugs".
Kenz: "What jugs?"
Kristin: "Right there, your two jugs, pull them out and feed the baby."
(At this point, I look at Kristin and start laughing, I can see she knows full well what shes saying but Kenz is oblivious to the innuendo).
Kenz: "I cant find them."
Kristin: "What do you mean you can't find your jugs....Fine then pull out my jugs and feed her."
Kenz: "Where are your jugs? I cant find the jugs and whose Jugs should I use."
Kristin: "It doesn't matters whose Jugs, I don't care, just pull out two jugs and feed her."
Kenz: "Are these the jugs?"

Honestly I cant remember the rest, it did continue...I was too busy laughing...Kenz never caught on. Some demented version of "Who's on First".

Look Who's Talking

2010-03-02T10:04:00.000-08:00

Charlie is at such a fun stage right now. She is starting to find her voice and to smile her goofy smile often. I thought I'd post this little video clip of her talking to Mackenzie (especially for those that haven't got to meet her yet). It's pretty cute!

What I love about Bella...

2010-03-01T19:03:00.001-08:00

Bella turned 7 yesterday. She got to celebrate with two of her favorite people...Nana and Emily..in Valencia. So, I thought I'd post a few things I love about her...

She is kind. Her brothers aren't very nice to her sometimes but she bends over backwards to do nice things for them...color a picture, make an ez bake, share her candy, etc.

She is a great student. Her teachers love her because she is on the ball. She works hard and she loves school. She will let the teacher know if something is not being done correctly.

She has plenty of self-confidence...she'll sing, dance, act, whatever...in front of whoever will listen.

She is adventurous. She loved the roller coasters at Disneyland and California Adventure. She will try any sport. She's pretty much game for anything.

She thinks she is 16. She knows who she is and what she wants. And...she'll tell you too. She likes to hang out with older kids because they're well-suited for her. She is not intimidated in the least by anyone, including adults. (Sometimes I wish she was intimidated by me, but she's not...)

She is sensitive to others' feelings. She notices when people are sad or upset and she tries to make them feel better...especially Malia.

She is a good example. She knows what's right and she likes to do it.

She goes the extra mile. When she has her heart into something, she will give it 110 percent.

She is missing one front tooth! IT is funny to look at!

Her freckles and curly blonde hair. She started getting freckles before she could walk and I love them on her. Her hair is getting curlier every day and I love how it looks on her. She is a beautiful girl.

She has her own sense of style. She has been picking her own clothes for a long time and I love that she knows what she likes. She has started doing her own hair now which is kind of fun too. It doesn't always turn out how I like it but she doesn't seem to care!

She loves, loves, loves babies! If there is one around, she wants to be holding him or her forever! She is great with younger children too, but has a definite soft spot for those snuggly babies.

Bella is a wonderful girl. We are lucky to have her in our family. We love you Bella!

A world record made for Courtney

2010-02-15T13:23:00.000-08:00

Courtney, now that you have conquered the marathon, you need to show these jokers who their daddy (or curtains mommy) is.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100214/ap_on_re_us/us_hyper_hugging

Carter ROCKS!!

2010-02-08T21:57:00.000-08:00

I'll just add a few thoughts to Michelle's post below. Carter really got a kick in the butt by life this last weekend. More like a kick in the butt followed by a pile driver followed by a kick in the balls. That's how it felt to me, anyway. But I couldn't imagine any person taking this whole thing with a better attitude than Carter. After the IVs came out, Carter was elated. When he heard there would be more shots, he was pretty crushed. But after the first insulin shot, the whole thing hasn't bothered him in the least. Half a dozen times a day he hands over a finger for a prick and blood test with a smile. He casually and again with a smile accepts each insulin shot.

The first time I cried over this whole situation was with a broken heart at what he would have to deal with his whole life. The last time was thinking about his invincible positivity, courage and adaptability.

It was also amazing to see the concern that Jake, Bella and Carter have shown. They can fight and annoy each other with the best of brothers, but Jake has probably been as stressed about this situation as anyone, and has been particularly relieved that Carter is okay. It's been wonderful to see how much they really love each other.

Carter...the whole story

2010-02-06T21:40:00.000-08:00

For my sake, so I don't forget all the wonderful things that have happened over the last few days, along with a little speed bump thrown at us...this is how Carter ended up at Valley Children's...and all the blessings that have come with it.

Saturday and Sunday of last week, Carter was acting fairly tired. He had been late, so I figured it was lack of sleep. But it got worse on Tuesday and by Wednesday, he was practically a zombie. By the time I could take him to the doctor, the office was closed. We got him in Thursday morning. The doctor found two ear infections and gave us a prescription for an antibiotic. He told me to bring him back on Monday if he wasn't feeling well. I suggested that perhaps there was something more wrong than an ear infection since he had never mentioned his ears were bothering him. The doctor really thought we should just give him a few days and see how he did. I almost gave in, but that something inside me...call it mother's intuition or inspiration...I requested he ask for some blood tests just to make sure. Thankfully, he respected my wishes and agreed to order tests. We did the labs and then I took Carter to In 'n Out because he looked so horrible, I thought he would enjoy a treat. I also got him a nice big sugary soda to perk him up...

At about 3:00 that afternoon, the pediatrician called to let me know that his blood sugar had come back high (400's) and I should take him to Children's hospital immediately. Uh...what? I made arrangements for the kids (thnk you Kari and Elizabeth!) and headed off with Carter to the ER. I've never been there before but it was packed with kids coughing and runny noses and SICK people. Thankfully, the doctor called to let them know we were coming and they fast tracked us right through the ER and before we knew it Carter was being seen by a doctor. He was so lathargic by this point he could barely talk and walking was at the speed of a turtle. (That might have had something to do with the fact that his blood sugar was now 778 due to the sugary drink I got him few hours before). The doctor picked up on his symptoms immediately, ran some very quick tests and quickly hooked him up to about a billon machines and tubes. I didn't realize how sick he was at this point...until the doctor said he would be going to the ICU. My second uh..what? for the day.

Long story short...the poor kid got worse before he got better. They wouldn't let him eat or drink (though I may have snuck him some water everytime they left the room). Our Bishop came up and he and Rick gave Carter a blessing. His body responded to the treatment well. They were able to move him out of the ER and up to the PICU by about midnight. I think that was the worst night of my life...They poked his poor fingers every 1/2 hour to hour ALL NIGHT LONG. It was miserable...vitals, more blood, lights on and off, noise. Nobody slept that night. They wouldn't feed him or let him drink (again, few sips here and there from me). HE spent the ENTIRE next day just begging for food..any food at all. It didn't happen until about 9:00 PM so you can imagine his mood all day...now here comes the good part.

Our friends Kari and Rob came up to visit Carter on Friday morning. Rob happens to be Carter's principal also and they brought lots of fun with them...cards from Carter's entire class, a video made by Rob and Bella with Rob's iphone that was HILLARIOUS! with well wishes from teachers, staff, and kids. They also brought books that the librarian donated for Carter. What a great school! Kari had the kids at her house write little cards for Carter too and they were seriously funny! Kids are so awesome. Carter even cracked a smile!

Friday was a very long day but I feel so grateful to the fabulous nurses and doctors who took good care of Carter and bugged the doctor until she finally let Carter eat. I'm grateful to Kari and Elizabeth and Aimee for keeping our kids (even overnight). They even found clothes for them to wear and got them off to school! How great is that? And the best part is that I didn't have to worry about them...I knew they were fine. Carter had a rough time with the whole concept of shots before you get to eat and constant finger poking, but he has been a champ. He has been cooperative and really hasn't complained at all.

Speaking of other children...it has been a blessing, as a parent, to watch Jake and Bella and their sincere concern and love for Carter. Jake and Bella both melted into a pile of tears when I saw them the first time after this craziness began. They were so worried about him. Rick brought the kids up Saturday morning to see Carter and the relief on their faces was almost tangible. They had lots of questions for him. Jake made him a sweet newspaper sword to hit the doctors and nurses with next time they came to poke him. They wanted to stay and be with him as long as they could. All the way home, Jake kept saying how glad he was that Carter was getting better and how awful he felt that he was going to have to get shots. Tonight, Jake asked me while we were at the grocery store if he could buy Carter a diet soda with his own money. How cute is that? He hoards his money like no one else and he wanted to spend whatever it cost on him. I asked Jake to pack some clothes for Carter to wear and pajamas for him and he packed his own pants and pajamas because he thought they would be the most comfortable for him. As I put them to bed tonight (Rick's on hospital duty tonight and I'm home) they both kept asking what time in the morning we could go back and see him and Jake broke down in tears during his prayers (which were all about Carter).

Carter is now doing fabulous. He is understanding more the concept of planning what he's going to eat and getting the right amount of insulin to go with it. He has been very cooperative and hasn't complained hardly at all. He has had a big smile plastered on his face since they took all the i.v. tubes out and he can walk wherever he wants. He really likes to wander around the hospital (with Rick or I, of course). It's a huge place and it's like a maze. He gets to order whatever he wants for his meals...tonight he ordered pizza, chicken noodle soup, chicken nuggets, fish sticks, chef salad and a diet soda. Even the nurse was laughing as he brought in Carter's huge plate. Of course, he didn't eat it all, but after starving for 36 hours, he wants to make certain he doesn't go hungry again. It is really funny to watch him get all excited about food.

HOpefully he will only be there a couple more days as they teach Rick and I all about this stuff...In the meantime, I haven't had to worry about anything. Though both our families are far away, we have spent a lot of time on the phone with our parents and siblings calling to check on Carter. It is a comfort to know they are all pulling for us. We have snacks at the hospital (thanks Kari) as well as all kinds of entertainment (i.pod movies, ds games, and books). We have had the kids taken care of by great friends...Malia thinks she lives at Elizabeth's now...The school nurse called and we talked about how to work with this at school. The house hs stayed fairly clean because nobody has been here! One or both of us have been able to be with Carter at all times. I've actually really enjoyed the one on one time with Carter. We have played lots of card games, read, watched movies, played on the computer, and carter's favorite...snuggled. He gets us all to himself and he is loving it. ON more than one occasion, he has said something about liking this "hotel." He's already forgotten the horror that was his first 24 hours there...There are so many things I am grateful for right now...but it all started with what I know was inspiration. I very easily could have left Carter's doctor's office with a prescription for antibiotics and he could've gotten much much sicker in the next couple of days. But, that little voice inside would not be quiet and I knew there was something else wrong. I am so grateful for inspiration. That's what it is...those moments when the Lord tells us how to take care of the children he has loaned us.

Anyone who knows Carter knows that he lives to snuggle with me. It took a good 48 hours before Carter was in the mood to snuggle again. I offered several times and he was just too sick to care. I have never been so happy to have him glued to my side again. Now to get him home and make our adjustments.

2010-01-28T15:53:00.000-08:00

I (Lisa) finally uploaded the pictures from my camera. Here are some highlights. We got to do two days in Disneyland a week before Christmas. Definitely dreamy. The weather was incredible (short sleeves) and after refusing to ride the first few rides we suggested, Sarah finally gave in and loved it. Here she is sporting her new hat and sunglasses because it's always "too bwight."

She could have watched the High School Musical show 10 times. I didn't mind it myself. I had heard that it would be a waste of time/money to take a little one..no way! She has been talking about it for the last month. And, let's be honest; she didn't cost us a thing.

Christmas came. Sarah got a slide. We haven't moved it outside yet.

Adelle was just happy to be there.

We finally had Adelle blessed. Check out her face in the first shot.

Those blue eyes are just so fun. Thank you Lisonbees.

And lastly, this is what happened this morning, when Sarah decided that Adelle needed every single toy from the closet. I decided not to mind that Sarah was in the walker.

And I suppose that is what I have been up to a lot lately...deciding not to mind this or that and just trying to enjoy the best parts of life, because it's a great one.

Question

2010-01-24T19:54:00.000-08:00

If I post on the family blog can I be part of the family again and have a birthday post? I'll think of something good, I'm sure.

New Hamster

2010-01-20T21:52:00.000-08:00

Most of you were able to experience this monumental event with me via the phone chain we had going on, but for any of you who feel like you missed out --- here is yet another video of the craziness taking place in this last week of my life...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRCdtp1C2aw

It's all happened so quickly that I don't think it's even really registered. I'm actually counting on the fact that it won't hit me until I've reached the mission home at which point it'd be too late to change my mind :)

Oh and as a fun fact, my mission actually includes the majority of Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont and a sliver of both New York and Massachusetts. Not to mention I am right on the border of Canada. I have a feeling that had something to do with the fact that I was secretly praying to stay far far away from anywhere cold (ie Russia, Montana, Canada...etc...) That right there is proof that God does have a sense of humor. And a sick one at that.

Sister Courtney Suzanne Lisonbee

Courtney finishing her Marathon!

2010-01-17T21:25:00.000-08:00

My wife asked me to post this video of Courtney for all of you. Her she is finishing the race in all her glory.
Please forgive the fact that its sideways, I don't have any video editing software.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onKstAiufUw

Also, I haven't used my youtube account in ages, but forgot about this video Kenz posted. Knock your selves out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=djOIWRyYb-Y

~Stephen