Come. Sit. Stay. Play!

Discontinued?

2011-12-11T16:36:00.001-07:00

Just checking in to see if this blog is still working! Maybe I will post something over the holidays! But don't hold your breath!

The Animal Odd Couple

2009-02-15T20:04:00.004-07:00

A friend emailed this to me and I thought it was the sweetest thing. If you are an animal lover like I am you really have to watch this! Even if you don't care for animals it is a nice story:-)

I tried to upload the file to play on my blog but it won't work-sorry-you'll have to take the time to click on the link below to watch it! It's only two minutes long though! Enjoy!

Animal Odd Couple Video

A day in the life of Me.....

2009-02-12T19:53:00.003-07:00

4 AM-Wake up to very painful gallbladder pains-Try to sleep in rocking chair
6 AM-Not in any pain but not sleeping either! Go back to tossing in bed
8 AM-Get up to start the day-feed dogs, medicate dogs, clean ferret litter box, let dogs out, let dogs in-why do I have pets again?!
8:30 AM-Make pancakes
9 AM-Do dishes; clean up kitchen
9:30 AM-Get us all dressed
10AM to11 AM-Help Elise with homework and try to keep Joseph distracted with his own 'homework'-which he did very well! He had to write the number 1 and color a matching page that he did with little help from me!
11:30-Put dogs in crates and try to get everyone out the door to go Target to pick up valentine cards/candy for Elise's kindergarten party
12:00-Feed us all lunch-quickly!
12:30-Pick up neighbor child and take her and Elise to school
12:45-2:00-Fill up van with gas, grocery shopping with very pregnant belly and a busy four year old Joey
2 PM -Unload and put away groceries
2:30 PM -Pick up stuff, start dishwasher, look up an old receipt for name/# for tile, let dogs out/in again
3:30PM-Elise comes home-go thru school paperwork, get snacks for kids
4:00PM-Shampoo carpets while getting kids to do their chores
5:30PM-Start dinner, feed dogs, crate Little dog 'Irma' so she doesn't wet in the house
6:30PM-Feeding time :-)
7:00PM-Help Elise write on Valentine cards, get pj's on kids, put Joey to bed
8:00 PM- Put Elise to bed
8:15 PM-Watch recorded 'Office' while folding laundry
10:00 PM-Let dogs out/in, medicate dogs-why have pets? Get ready for bed & try to read a bit of book club book
10:30 Pm Good night! I hope......

Now-I know this is a boring day to all the readers out there but it is a typical day for me. I think I need a raise!

Baby Update

2009-02-05T21:41:00.004-07:00

Well, I went back to the ultrasound specialist and the doctor this week to check up on the baby. The right kidney is still 15cm which is good in a way because it hasn't grown more but there is more fluid buildup inside the kidney. The specialist's opinion is that most likely the baby will need some sort of intervention by a urologist after he is born. We will have an ultrasound done on him before he leaves the hospital and then Dr Berry will consult with some doctors at Primary Childrens Hospital. Some some info on the baby's condition if you are interested:

What is Hydronephrosis?

Hydronephrosis is dilation or stretching of the area of kidneys where urine collects that can occur when there is an obstruction of urine flow somewhere along the urinary tract, most often in the upper section.

Normally, urine flows from the kidneys down through the ureters and into the bladder. But, if there is some kind of a blockage that prevents urine from draining properly into the bladder or out of the bladder, the kidney overfills with urine and hydronephrosis occurs. The blockage may be partial, letting urine pass, but at a slower rate and with increased pressure.

According to the measurements the baby is wieghing about 5 1/2 pounds now. I am hoping that I will continue to only have 6poundish babies. So mamybe he will come in four weeks or less :) One can dream...

I am just happy knowing that the rest of him is healthy and this is a problem that will most likely correct itself. I can't wait to have him here! Now for a name....

Almost a year....

2009-01-31T22:00:00.004-07:00

A friend of mine pointed out that it has nearly been a year since my last post and that I should post on the same day again. That would be funny but I was also ashamed that it has been so long. I really enjoy snooping around and reading everyone's posts but maybe you all would like to know what I have been up to!

A brief summary for now and then I will try my best to post more often-you haven't heard that before!

Matt and I went to Mexico for our ten year wedding anniversary in October. It was so nice to get away for a few days-just the two of us. The sea of cortez is beautiful although I can't say much for the rest of the scenery in Puerto Penasco-all sand and no plants! It was very warm too which I love. Matt ran his first triathlon while we were down there. He did great! Now he wants me to run with him in the next one!

I am also about 8 months pregnant with our third child. He is a boy and for names we are trying to decide on Ian-my vote- or Henry-Matt's vote. He has also has a blocked kidney that we have been watching closely with a specialist. Most of the time the kidney will unblock itself once the baby is a few weeks old. The doctors will continue to watch it after he is born and if there isn't any improvement then surgery will be the next step. Other than that he is healthy. I have gained the most I have ever gained in a pregnancy- I won't tell how much either! I will be much happier with the baby in my arms! Like how the kids shoved balloons under their shirts to make fun of me?! This is how we looked coming out of my last doctor's appointment! Glad they have a sense of humor :)

Elise started kindergarten this past year. She has a hate/love relationship with it. She can read small words though which she is excited with herself over. Still a drama queen but ever so cute:)

Joseph is turning four tomorrow. He is the next Dennis the Menace...Like to lock the animals up in small 'things', creates and builds obsticle courses, loves loves loves anything that has wheels and moves. Busy and smart kid. He is not too far behind learning whatever Elise is learning in school. He enjoys helping her with her homework. He must have got his Daddy's smarts!

Don't want to bore you all too much so I will say 'ta ta' for now. Check back sooner than a year and I promise to have something more to say!

Always Playing Catch Up!

2008-03-03T11:41:00.002-07:00

Well, again I have let too much time pass between posts. Someday I hope to be able to be a regular at this! I was in Idaho last week to help take care off Matt's 98 year old grandma. I enjoy visiting with her-such stories! Plus she is fun-she lies to exercise, eat, and laugh. Things that I enjoy too. She will be 99 this year in June- I think. She will surely make it too 100!

Here are some pictures of my kids entertaining themselves. Our TV finally gave up the ghost- I think it is about 15+ years old. I have actually enjoyed not having to tell the kids to turn off the television and go play. They just go and play now! So- the ferret loves to pop balloons and Elise thought it would be fun to blow up a bunch of balloons and let the ferret have a hay day with all of them! It was fun entertainment!

When I got back from Idaho I inherited an additional three dogs to my house. My brother and sister can no longer keep their dogs so now I have them. I think that my sister will be able to take her boston terrier back in a few months but as for the other two I need help finding them a home! If anyone out there wants one or knows someone who might PLEASE let me know. I am on the verge of disliking pets! YIKES! so-the pit bull is an un-neutered female. She is surprisingly tolerant of other dogs-not at all aggressive over food or toys. She is great with my kids-they love to pull her tail and she just plays along with them. The best part is that she is already house trained and obedience trained. What a find!

The other dog is a bloodhound. Very adorable but needs work. I would be happy to pay for half of the $100 obedience class to whomever takes him. He is not neutered but it has already been payed for- I will probably take him in this week to have the deed done! He is pretty mellow but has no manners! He needs to be house broken, learn come,s it , stay, etc. We have been working on the crate training the last few days and it has helped with his barking issues. He is very smart and quick to learn and wants to please.

Well- now you all know what I have been up too. I will try to post again soon!

January gone...

2008-02-13T09:35:00.007-07:00

It is hard to believe that I am half way through February already! Although with each passing month we get closer to spring and warm weather. With the last few days being in the 50s I have been planning a landscape for my backyard-yearning for spring to come. I like the outline I have laid out. A few flowing shrubs and a couple of fruit trees should be all I need to buy. Then I am going to lay landscape rock tiles down through half my backyard to make a walking path to the back half. Then a couple of benches on the walking path with our fire pit at the end of the path and that should complete the backyard. I hope to get it done this summer but I am not sure I'll have the funds for all the plants I want to get!

Which brings me to one of my new year resolutions. To keep a budget! I used to be good at following one when Matt was in school but then he graduated and we bought a house and our income increased quite a bit. Suddenly I thought we were made of money! Now, two years later I have got us into serious credit card debt with nothing to show for it. I am determined to get it paid off by the summer so I am going back to work at the vet clinic a couple days a week as well as continuing to drive the horse carriages around salt lake city. My mom has generously agreed to babysit the kids while I work my long 10 hour days at the vet. I just have not been taking care of our finances like I used to and now I have to pay the price! But I will be free again by the fall!

I visited my sister in michigan last month. It has been nearly two years since I saw her last. We had a great time catching up. Her kids and my kids got along great. And her new baby is so adorable. Seeing and holding the baby made more baby hungry but taking care of 5 children all under the age of 5 and trying to keep up with the laundry and house cleaning was good birth control! So-who knows if I am really ready for another baby! Maybe I will stop at two! At the rate I am going however Joey will be in kindergarten before my next baby is born!

I also received some good mail from Jessie. A cute frame that is monogrammed with 'B' with hearts for valentine's as well as a heart wall hanging-very cute and some candy. Thank you Jessie! You are creative and a cherished friend.

Welcome Home

2007-12-14T22:07:00.000-07:00

Surprisingly a small miracle has taken place at our house. I am sure you are all tired of hearing about my dogs but they are like my kids. I have nothing else to talk about except kids and animals! I will try to post about more intellectual topics in the future! Anyways-I had Bella given to e by a breeder for free which never happens. French bulldogs go for $3000 easy and so selling a pet the breeder could sell them at a reduced price of $1500 with no problem. So I assumed that if I ever wanted another frenchie I was doomed to pay full price. But my good friends at the vet clinic that I used to work at put in a good word for me with the frenchie breeders that come in and I amazingly scored another free frenchie! She is two years old and came from Russia-as did my other Frenchie. But she has seizures and has to be on two medications every day to prevent episodes. The breeder didn't want to breed her and have the puppies have this problem as well but didn't feel she could find a good permanent home for her that would maintain her meds and bloodwork. I am totally comfortable of the all the extras and now she has come to live with us. Her name is 'Stella' and is quite chubby. I've renamed her fatty bo blattey! She has had really no training at all and seems to not know her name. I feel sad for these poor dogs that belong to breeders because although their physical needs are usually well met their emotional needs are neglected. {Matt snickers as I write this} But dogs are very social animals and need that 'pack companionship'. Stella is just soaking up the attention she is getting. And I have no doubt that she will be in excellent shape within a few months going up and down the stairs, chasing chickens, ferret, and small children. not to mention Strider's playful energy levels. Now you all know my secret of how I stay skinny! Who needs a gym when who have a household like Dr. Doolittle! The breeder also brought down a littler of frenchie puppies for the vet to check. I knew it would be hard to see frenchies again but I broke down at the vet's. It was hard to see the big ears and hear unique snort. It was good and bad. It is good to have a snorty dog comfortably sleeping in my lap again though. Wish me luck in the training process because I do believe frenchie's are the dumbest and most stubborn dog to train but worth it in the end.

As to the ferret some have requested more pics of her. Here are some of her looking to be rescued and then sleeping safely in Oma's (grandma) lap. I have had to put a lock on Monkey's cage because Joey is getting to rough with her I am afraid that she will get
hurt. He was very upset about the new rule but I know it will be better for everyone!

Playing Catch Up

2007-12-11T08:31:00.001-07:00

After a trial hits home-either big or small -it seems to take me a while to get back into some sort of routine. So, I have some pictures and stories to tell from the last few weeks so bear with me!

After Bella, my little french bulldog, died- I tried to fill up my days with activities to keep me distracted. One of them was to build a snowman with the dry Utah snow. It took a long time but after lots of packing and pounding of the snow we were successful. Elise is a determined and very good snowman builder. She built the head of the snowman entirely by herself. Joseph wanted to know after the snowman was done if he would come alive! Joey was bored after a little while so he went on to play ball with Strider. It is a fun game to play because you get a snowball and tell the dog that you have a ball. Then you throw the snowball and Strider takes off after the ball. Of course when the snowball lands it breaks apart and disappears in the snow but Strider knows the ball is somewhere in that area! Here are some pics of the kids having a snowball fight on our new deck.

One of the worst things a grieving pet owner can do is to go to a pet store! Well, I did. A few days after losing Bella and I came home with a 6 week old baby ferret. I had one a long time ago and I love their little personality. I could certainly use a laugh anyway! Elise named her 'Monkey' since she likes to hang from the top of her cage. I knew the kids would like her but I had no idea they would smother her in attention. They hold and play with her all day long. Lets just say the ferret gets a good night s rest at the end of the day! I like that the kids hold her a lot because the more a ferret is handled the better pet it becomes!

Here are just some funny pictures of Joey eating his 'Big daddy donut'. I went to the store to pick some things up and the kids wanted a donut. So I obliged when Joey wanted the giant size donut. It was fun to watch him eat it!

Until We Meet Again....

2007-11-29T21:58:00.000-07:00

Tuesday night Matt took the trash out and our French bulldog followed him out. A car veered off the road to pass another car pulling into their driveway. The veering car hit and killed our sweet Bella who was standing in the grass. She lived only a few minutes and died in my arms. It was one of the hardest and horrible things I've had to do when I buried her that cold, snowy night. She was my shadow, my companion. I am having a hard time going through my daily routines without her. My children were sweet in their simple faith. Elise hugged me when we told her Bella was gone and simply said that we will see Bella again and to not be so sad. It is just that it will be such a long time before that happens. A heaven without my animals would not be heaven at all! Joseph pointed his finger out the window and replied ' I will get on my big boy bike and find Bella for you!' If only he could bring her back to me. Bella was the BEST family dog ever. She tolerated my kids jumping on her, pulling on her, riding her without even a complaint. She was content to follow me from room to room or excited to go to the park to run with the kids. Bella often was found as a stow away in the car. Jumping into action whenever I picked up my purse and bolting out the door with the kids to get into the car first. I have so many fond memories which is all I have of her now. I am an animal lover and when I lose a pet I suffer for a long time. I grieve and grieve-a big void unable to be filled. My days lost to memories. I try to fill up the time with distractions which helps some. But when the day is done, kids off to bed and the house is quiet once again I find myself full of grief and tears. I have nothing else to say really but have tears to shed for my loss. I miss you Bella. Know that you will always be remembered. If you have any fond memories of my Bella I would enjoy reading about them.Our first picture of Bella when we brought her home Feb. 2002.
Our first Christmas with Elise and Bella. Dec. 2003A bit blurry but you can see that Bella was a friend to all- even the hairless cat 'Pinky'.
Our neighbor loving the dogs the day before the accident.
Matt's niece giving her a love. So tolerant and accepting.

Sorry that I didn't flip this picture. Bella and Elise were witches together this year for Halloween.Strider our dobie is lost without his companion. He is not eating very well-neither am I- and sleeps all day long. I am so sorry. I took this picture the day before she died. How can I go on without that face and those ears.

A Different Kind of Wedding Reception

2007-11-27T19:56:00.000-07:00

Friday I went to Matt's cousin's wedding reception held at an organ reception hall. I was a bit intimidated when I found out where it was being held and what kind of entertainment would be there. But, we went anyway, out of duty and curiosity. The organ music was actually very good. All around the room were fun 'bells and whistles' that would occasionally add to the entertaining organ solo. Different from most formal receptions but entertaining. The organist started out the evening by playing the Mickey Mouse song and then on to Star Wars theme song, Fiddler on the Roof, Polkas, and then ending with Phantom of the Opera. Different but good! For the favors they had little bride & groom rubber duckies for all to take home. Then the belly dancer came out to perform. That was our cue to leave but I had to stay for a little bit to see what she was going to do. I knew it was time to go when my two year old son was mesmerized by the lack of clothes and my four year old daughter was very upset that she couldn't stay to watch because she wanted to learn to dance like her! Here are a few pictures of the not so talented belly dancer....I heard a rumor as we were leaving that Elvis would be appearing at 8:00. Disappointed that I had to miss him!

A New Job

2007-10-15T10:13:00.000-06:00

I have found the perfect job for me! I was surfing ksl.com when I came across a help wanted ad-Horse Carriage Drivers needed for the Holidays. What a perfect opportunity to learn how to drive a carriage. I have always wanted to go on one at Christmas time but thought it was too expensive-now I can do it all night long and get paid for it! The very best part of the job is that I can pick my own hours. I just mark what day I want to work and show up for my shift. I can work everyday or take 6 months off! The part I am most worried about is the cold. I have already started training and love all of it except the cold and it is just going to get colder. Friday & Saturday nights I have worn my sweat pants under my jeans, thermal top, long sleeve shirt, wool sweater, hoodie, down vest, and my long duster. I have been comfortable with that but it has only dropped to the low 50s at night. How much more can I wear when the temperature drops to the low 30s?! I need a thermos of hot chocolate!
The horses are awesome. They are controlled pretty much by voice commands. And they really are gentle giants. the one I had Saturday night was Bert and he is a Clydesdale and he is 8 feet tall from his front hoof to his withers or shoulder! The equipment isn't too hard to remember how to put on but I can't remember what the parts are called. I have to pull out and put away my own carriage from the barn which is pretty heavy. My shoulders are still stiff! the draft horse can pull up to 4 times its weight! Amazing! And the horses rally like the work. When you pull them out of their paddock they are ancy and can't wait to get out on the streets.
Well, I expect to see you all up at temple square this Christmas for a carriage ride! Here is the website if you'd like to look around! htpp://www.carriageforhire.net

Stay at Home Mom

2007-10-03T13:25:00.000-06:00

Elise and Joseph
the Tiger Tamer What's a circus w/out the trapeze!
I took my kids to the circus last week which was very fun for all-but on the way there I was thinking how lucky I am to be able to stay at home with my kids. I have the freedom to drop everything and run up to SLC to the circus, or go to the park. If I had to work I would miss out on so much. I have a friend that tells me all the time that life is all about the journey and I am enjoying mine.

Elise quit preschool-uhgg, it is starting already! But we do it at home three days a week. I thought I would dread it trying to make sure I taught her all she needs to succeed in kindergarten-geometry, chemisty, you know. But I find myself really enjoying the time with her. Her little mind is like a sponge and soaks up so much as well as retains it. She has a thirst for learning that I hope I can encourage her to retain throughout her life. Her Dad loves learning new stuff and is always talking about going back to school or doing some online courses. He already had two master degrees! Sheesh! I am glad that Elise got her thirst for knowledge from her dad! I was never a big fan of school-just the social part really!

Well, I love my little family and am so blessed to get to watch them grow and develop each step of the way. Thank you Matt for getting those degrees to make my life happier:)

Catch Up

2007-10-01T15:30:00.001-06:00

Well, as Hannah mentioned I do have some catch up to do. I won't bore you all with it all at once. I thought I would post about my chickens. We got baby chicks for the kids at Easter and they are know grown and laying eggs. It is Elise's favorite chore of the day to go and gather the eggs from the hen house. I just hope she still likes it when there is snow and freezing outside! It was so exciting the day I found eggs. I wasn't expecting them to lay for at least another month. I was also so very surprised at how small they were. They are getting bigger now. We also have a rooster but he is very quiet. No cock- a-doodle-doing from him. I think he knows that if we find out he is a rooster he'll become Sunday dinner! I caught him this morning laying on the eggs. Maybe he thinks he is a hen!?

I am some what weird in the fact that my future goal in life is to have a mini farm. I want to have a couple cows, horses, chickens, maybe a milking goat or two, a pig to butcher in the fall. I grew up part of my years on a mini farm and I loved it. I never looked at my outside chores as 'chores'. It was enjoyable and an outlet for me- still is- hence the garden and the chickens and the two dogs! Which is way my household duties don't get done. I need to hire a full time "Alice" from the Brady Bunch to do the mundane daily things of a house wife!

Along with that I have finally put together a scrapbook page of my Frenchie Bella. I was somewhat inspired to do so after Jessi's blog about dogs. I love my frenchie and think that once past the stubborn/stupid puppy phase they seem to go through they are THE best family dog. She is loyal- follows me from room to room which often I feel bad about because that is sometimes the only exercise she gets, she is protective- will bark at the fence or the door until I call her off and then she'll lick the visitor all over the face, and she is patient- with two small children I often find her dressed in their clothing or being used as a landing pad from off the couch. She has never snapped at anyone torturing her! I haven't heard- did Jessie get a dog?! I could have at least two more but Matt keeps me in check!

Ta Ta for now!

The World's Greatest Bar Band

2007-09-28T09:00:00.000-06:00

Well- I am back! I thought I would post about my recent adventure to a local bar in SLC where Matt and I went and watched George Thorogood and the Destoyers. He is known for 'Bad to the Bone' and 'Move it on Over' for those who don't know who he is! He is one of my favorite groups though I must admit I didn't know he was still performing! I started listening to him as a sophmore in highscool. and he was considered a classic back then! He put on a great show for being an old timer. It was totally awesome to hear him sing bbbbbaaad to the bone live! It is always entertaining to be the only people not drinking alcohol. We were next to a very nice but very drunk man during the concert. Matt stood between the drunk guy and me just to keep him from falling into me! I have been singing his songs all week because of it! He has a great distinctive voice with a bluesy-rock 'n roll style of music. The place was packed and I overheard some latecomers comment that Thoro good is still packing a full house.

It is good to be back and I have enjoyed reading your blogs. I'll be back soon!

The Haircut

2006-07-17T08:33:00.000-06:00

Well, here is the new me. This reminds me of the George Thoughogood song'Get a Haircut' If you haven't heard of it then let me know and I'll let you borrow it. Very funny song. I like this hairc ut. I can still do alot of cute thigs with it and it isn't just pulled back in a ponytail. Matt likes it long but I think that it is just string looking so at least this way it has some style to it. I have never gone this short before. It is a fun hairdo! The worst hair experience I had was when I had my hair dyed blonde and the hairstylist forgot about me. I went and found her about 45 minutes later and she quickly took off the foil. When I looked in hte mirror I had a nice brassy haircolor. I matched a trumpet! I told her this color wasn;t going to work but she refused to fix it and charged me anyway for it. Sometimes I wish I could be mean and vulgar. Oh well, I survived and I certainly never went back to her!
I don't have a lot to post today. I have a billion things to do today that I feel overwhelmed and don't want to even start.

What is your best or worse hair story?

The Prodigal Blogger Returns

2006-07-14T08:52:00.000-06:00

Hello out there if anyone still looks at this page! I am rededicating myself to blogging. My life has been insane the last two months which is no excuse but I am going to put blogging higher on the priority list. I feel that writing on it is like journal writing and I want to be able to look back and see my progress-if there is any! So, here is a brief summary of the last two months. My dad came for a visit in the middle of May. He lives in Arizona but just recently was laid off from his job so it looks like he may be moving to Washington state. I had a cousin get-together while he was here. It was good to see all the cousins and my aunt that live in salt lake. He also bought us anice new grill. I use it nearly every night. Thanks Dad! We also had him help us tear down our old deck that was rotting away. That too was fun to watch things fall down. Any volunteers to help us rebuild it?!

Then we went to Idaho and spent the long weekend of Memorial Day in Idaho. Elise saw her cousins and we celebrated Matt’s niece graduating from high school.

Next, I left my sweet family and spent the first part of June in Michigan helping my sister with her new baby. He was born in May and they named him Luke William. Such a cute new baby. I was almost baby hungry but not quite enough to do anything drastic! I enjoyed seeing her and spending time with sweet Emma Rose. She is very quite but always a smile on her face. I had fun photographing her. We also got permission from my brother's mission president to visit him- I think this made him a bit homesick though.

When I returned from Michigan I went back to work for two weeks at the vet clinic to help them out. They had for people quit in one week so they needed some help. I was happy to do so but I got s behind in my already ignored ‘duties’ at home. Once my two weeks were through I dived into my house work and yard work. Fun.

At the end if June I packed up my camping gear and went to girls camp for a week. I am secretary in the Yong Womens. It was nice to get away from all the hustle and bustle and just have fun with the girls.

Elise had her third birthday on July 8^th. Matt, my mom, Joseph and Elise and me all went to Hogle Zoo in the morning. Then had two of her friends over for cake and ice cream. When asked what she wanted for her birthday Elise would always say the same thing-a princess cake! We couldn’t fine the princess cake that she had seen months before but she seemed pleased with the Tinkerbell cake.

Remember how I deep cleaned my house a bit earlier, well, Monday of last week I left the drip line on for the front yard shrubs and I flooded our basement. We had to pull everything out of our storage closet-had no idea I had so much ‘stuff’ under there! Then we pulled up all the wet carpet to let it dry and replace the padding. Luckily a carpet store gave it to us for free! I am so thankful that Matt is so handy and he is also nice to look at while workingJ Our kitchen sink also backed up that night and matt had to replace a some pipe under the sink after digging out the clog with a plastic spoon. Can I just say that our house smelled awful after that.

So, that is the last two months in a nutshell. I apologize that it is so long so if you don’t want to read it I understand. But, check back in a few days and I promise I will post about my new hairstyle-I went for a whole new look!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!!!

2006-05-11T14:02:00.000-06:00

My Mom. I have been so blessed to be her daughter. I don’t know where to begin. She has had a huge influence on where I am today. I attribute my will to have fun to her. My faith in God is because of her example and faithfulness. I learned from her that you can’t change people. They are who they are and to love them anyway. But if they want to change then I should do what I can to help them better themselves. She has always been there for me when I needed her and when I thought I didn’t need her. I always knew that her love is unconditional. The other day I asked my daughter who loves her the very most and she answered “Oma does!” (That is what she calls my mom), so even her grandkids know that their Oma loves them! That opens up another wonderful characteristic of my mom-she is the worlds best grandmother. I couldn’t ask for a more loving and fun person to be the grandmother to my children. They adore her as do I. I can’t say enough wonderful things about her. She is such an example of strength to me. I though I would share some of her sayings that are famous in my family that come from her. Her favorite is “Remember who you are.”

Did you pray about it?

Are your chores finished?! ( I had to throw that one in!)

Ladies don’t chew gum nor do they call boys.

-In Dutch she says this but I don’t know how to spell in Dutch so you get it in English!

Enjoy your meal

You pee in my eye- which is really a compliment! Strange Dutch people!

I love you

Mind your own business

Well, I hope that one day you all will get to meet this wonderful woman that I am honored to call my mother.

You are the best Mom-I hope your day is all you wished it to be!

MOTHER
By Author Unknown

I appreciate the many prayers
you've whispered during
the worst moments in my life,
and the many hopes for my success
in all that I dreamed of.

I appreciate the kind wishes
that would make me so happy and fulfilled,
and the gentle words of encouragement
that were meant to strengthen my quests.

I appreciate the moments of sorrow
you experienced during my failures,
and the little gestures of kindness
that always made me feel better.

I appreciate your acceptance,
your ability to understand,
and the sincere friendship
that always gave me such security.

I appreciate the wisdom
of all the lessons you taught,
and the meaning behind the words
"unconditional love."

I appreciate all you've done -
every word and gesture.
I know you've been the best there is -
a mother beyond all compare.

For all you've done...
thank you, Mom.
For all that you are...
I love you.

A Memorable Birthday

2006-05-10T13:37:00.000-06:00

I have had a great birthday week! This will be a memorable birthday for me. Thank you for all for making it so. I received a potted plant from my mom, a fun dinner with my two aunts and cousins at a nice restaurant- The Tuscany. I had one of my favorite desserts-tiramisu and was sung to. J I got lots of cards from friends and family, Matt made me a yummy breakfast and let me sleep in. Then I went shopping with my birthday money and found the perfect hand towels, rug, and cloth napkins for my kitchen. If the kitchen ever gets done! My neighbor brought me a new hydrangea plant to replace the one that died and her mom made me a mini birthday cake. Saturday Robin, Hannah, Jessie, and I had a fabulous dinner at PF Changs. It was the best Chinese I have had in a long time. And then we all shared a ‘great wall of chocolate’ cake-fours layers with fudge frosting in the middle of each with chocolate chips smothering the outside edge in the frosting with strawberries and raspberries. YUM! There is a reason I don’t own a scale! The girls also gave me a gift certificate to Pebbles in My Pocket. I am so excited to use it but I am first getting my office arranged so I will scrapbook on a regular basis. Last night Matt and I were able to go on a date- a rare thing these days! We went to dinner and to the movies. I wanted to go to a play but nothing looked interesting so I opted for the movies. We watched Mission Impossible III which I must say was better than the last two. I am not a Tom Cruise fan but this was a good one. I really wanted to see Take the Lead so if there is anyone out there that wants to see it with me I would enjoy the company! Here are some pictures of all the great things that made my special day special! Thanks again to all of you!

Trip to the Dentist

2006-05-09T13:24:00.000-06:00

I finally went to the dentist Monday. I probably shouldn’t say this but the last time I went was right after Elise was born-2 ½ years ago! But, in my defense I have very strong teeth and healthy gums which I must have inherited from my mom. I have never had a cavity in my life. And again I passed with flying colors at this appointment-whew! Life is just not fair-my sweet husband takes excellent care of his teeth and has at least one cavity almost every time he goes and he does go every six months! I took Elise in as well for a ‘happy visit’. She did okay but would not let the lady scrape the inside of her teeth. But she let her polish them. I also had to take Joseph and he was the perfect child. I put him in his stroller and there he sat for TWO hours entertained by his toys and people around him. He only fussed a small amount near the end! Amazing, really.

Okay, so I wanted to post about this dental office and not so much about my mouth. If anyone out there is looking for a dentist this is the place to go! It is called Total Care Dental. They are serious when they say 5 star VIP service. So this is how it went. After taking my xrays and setting Elise up with a movie in the children’s play area with a cookie and a juice box for each of the children they offered me a paraffin wax treatment for my hands. Then adjusted my dental chair which is also a heated massage chair to whatever made me the most comfortable. By the way I had a personal lady that stayed with me nearly the entire time just to make sure I was comfortable and if I needed anything. Posted on the wall was a sign that listed all the items that they provided:drinks, snacks, coffee, hot chocolate, etc. So, I was laying all the way back when I notice the television on the ceiling and the lady asked if I wanted to watch a show or a movie. After my teeth were cleaned and polished the dentist came in to exam my teeth and talk to me about some cosmetic stuff I want to get done. Very nice man. After he looked in Elise’s mouth-no cavities by the way-‘the lady’ brought me a moist hot towel, a mint, and chap stick on a silver tray to me. She gave each of the kids a goodie bag with toothbrush, past, and gold coins to buy toys with in their little trinket machines. That’s not all, you then move on to the restroom if you need to and there you find samples of makeup, lipstick, lip gloss, and perfume or cologne so that you look better than when you arrived! After that, it is the only negative part- you go into a small office where you have to pay but I thought they were very reasonable, especially for all the pampering you get! I am already looking forward to my six month checkup!

Well, that was the BEST experience I have ever had at a dentist office. My worst experience was when I busted out my front tooth from a fall off a skateboard and had to have a root canal or the time the dentist pulled out my adult teeth instead of my baby teeth to make room in my mouth so I am short a pair of teeth. No wonder I had questions about the cosmetic dentistry! When I win the lottery I will be able to get that work done! What was you best/worst experience at the dentist?

(Alright-I have just spent the last ten minutes trying to upload a picture and it is not working. Sorry.)

Sunday Evenings

2006-05-03T08:46:00.000-06:00

I thought I would post about what I like to do on Sundays after church. We have a ward that meets late so by the time we get home and eat dinner it is time to put the kids to bed. They go to bed rather early on these days since church is during their nap times. So by 7:00 both children are usually in bed and Matt and I have some catch up time to ourselves. I really look forward to these evenings together. Matt doesn't work on thesis stuff and I am not distracted by our adorable children. our favorite thing to do is to play our instruments together. I have played the flute since I was in the fourth grade-so about twenty years! But I haven't played as often as I would like since Elise was born. My dad gave me his flute that he used while in highschool so it is a family treasure. I am not sure how long Matt has played the guitar but he has taought himself all that he knows and does a prety good job. He really would like a piano but the guitar works for now! I think he has a nice singing voice and he sings along while we play. It is a pleasant way to pass the time.

We also enjoy playing games. Matt LOVES to play chess and wants to play it all the time but I am terrible at it and the game never lasts very long. We also like Monopoly and Risk. I love that Jessi and Timm have a game night. I really want to start something like that up here. I have a few prospects of who I can have attend. It is just a matter of getting the ball rolling:)

The other thing we do sometimes is visit with eachother and get to know one another again! We'll do this over a bowl of ice cream or make cookies together and eat to much of the dough! I like this activity alot but it doesn't happen often enough!

An update on the flowers my mom sent- they died. I was very said because I thought they would never die since it was a potted plant. I called the florist and took it in for them to see. The guy said that they must have just reached the end of their time in a pot so he let me pick out a replacement. Unfortunatly he was out of flowering plants. I picked this one which is nice but doesn't smell as wonderful as the hydrangeas.

As for my birthday I would love a girls night out. How is Saturday? I will send out an email to you all!

Birthdays!

2006-04-30T20:51:00.000-06:00

Well, I have made a new goal to make blogging more of a priority this week. Every week seems chaotic so I can’t use that as an excuse anymore :)

A recap on this past week: took Elise to the Urgent care center last Sunday for an injury that she caused herself at nursery; then took Joseph to the ER for a head injury on Friday; participated in the YW activity; mowed the lawn and weeded my newly planted shrubs; cleaned the house from top to bottom; called the city to come out and turn on the irrigation water; began a recycle pile so that I can be better to the environment; and babysat the neighbor kids. I know that I am not ready for four kids! My two sisters birthdays were also this past week and I got the dates mixed up in my frenzied busyness- I swore that Thursday was the 26^th not the 27^th. I had to actually look at the calendar to prove it to myself! At least I remembered to mail their birthday presents! I am thinking about dying my hair blonde so that it matches my personality.

This week is my birthday and my mom sent me a beautiful potted plant full of sweet smelling blossoms. I love that it won’t be dead by next week and each time I walk by it I think if her. I love my mom-Thanks mom for giving me a birthday!

I am not sure what to do for my birthday. I have some ideas like a romantic getaway with my husband but I have no sitter and no money so then I thought dinner and a movie or something would be nice. Perhaps a day hike with the kids and Matt would be enjoyable as well. What things have you done that made your birthdays enjoyable and memorable? Do you have a favorite birthday? The birthday that seems to stand out in my mind is when I was about 10 or so and my grandma gave me my first pet- a cute white rabbit, cage and all. My parents were upset because she hadn’t talked to them about it first. But, my parents couldn’t tell me no- so I was able to keep it. That started my adoration for all animals. So, you could say it is because of her that I have a career in the animal world and that I own so many pets now!

Tagged delayed!

2006-04-30T20:36:00.000-06:00

Tagged by Hannah!

5 Things in my fridge:

Lots of milk

Yogurt

Roast beef lunch meat

Mac & cheese with green beans

Jack Daniels Horseradish mustard

5 Things in my closet:

Shoes-mostly sandals

Wedding dress

OPI nail polish

Surprises for the kids-future b-day presents

Box of purses

5 Things in my purse:

cell phone

Franklin covey mini planner-love it!

Wipes

Hand sanitizer

Lip gloss

5 Things in my car:

CDs
stroller
garbage bag thing

Elmo’s Activity book

Portable DVD player

5 Things on my Tivo/DVR:
(Don't have it- but if I did...)

24

Smallville

Phantom of the opera

-can’t think of anything else!

Tagging:
Aud
Morgan

Confused

2006-04-25T07:58:00.000-06:00

Well, I tried all day yesterday to post and it kept giving me an error message that my connection was disconected but I have cable internet. And this was the only site that wouldn't work for me! It works today:)

The Lesson of the Five Balls

2006-04-24T09:53:00.000-06:00

I am sorry to all my fans that it has been a while since my last post. The last few days has been a whirlwind! I can’t really remember what I did except try to recover from this blasted cold!

So I have been thinking about a part in a book I just recently read for book club. It is Suzanne’s Diary for Nicholas by James Patterson. It is a bit cheesy but there is a part about the lesson of the five balls that I really liked. It goes like this: “Imagine life is a game in which you are juggling five balls. The balls are called work, family, health, friends, and integrity. And you’re keeping all of them in the air. But one day you finally come to understand that work is a rubber ball. If you drop it, it will bounce back. The other four balls- family, health, friends, integrity- are made of glass. If you drop one of these, it will be irrevocably scuffed, nicked, perhaps shattered. And once you truly understand the lesson of the five balls, you will have the beginnings of balance in your life.”

I am so blessed to be surrounded by good friends and family. But I did something today that I have never done-not show up for a shift at work. It really was a mistake on the doctor who scheduled me. I told him that I had no one to watch my kids for so long of a period and Joseph is sick with this bad cold. I couldn’t send him away in that condition to somebody else’s house. I feel good that I made my family first on this problem but what I can’t figure out is why I feel so guilty for not going to work to fill a shift I wasn’t even supposed to have. Why do I have to keep telling myself that my family come fist when I already know that? I am thankful that Matt has a great job so that I can stay at home and be with my children because this is where I am needed most. Any ideas on how to clear my guilty conscience that shouldn’t be guilty? I have found myself struggling with this type of guilt in different areas of my life, not just with work. I never want to make anyone feel uncomfortable even if it means causing me to be in a difficult spot. My sister in law once told me that I need to go down to the back store and pick me up a backbone! Can someone tell me where that store is!?

Creativity

2006-04-18T08:39:00.000-06:00

Yesterday Elise had a fun time painting. It started out with a paint brush and paper but by the time I finished the dishes she had turned it into finger painting! She was so cute in her mess that I took a few pictures of her. Elise is my very busy 2 1/2 year old. Her favorite thing to tell people when they ask her age is that she is 5. She is very enteraining all day long. I have to watch her like a hawk most of the time because if I am not keeping her busy with an activity she will discover her own! For example, she was very quiet for a long time downstairs. When I went to investigate she had decided that the fish tank needed to be cleaned. She had pulled up a chair and proceeded to take all the decorations out of the tank. By the time I arrived on the scene she was working on removing the gravel out of the tank. Luckily the fish are slippery and hard to catch! When I found her it was very hard to look upset when she innocently explained to me that "the fishes' house is dirty"! So , my question to all of you is this: What sort of fun activities do you do with your kids to keep them out of trouble?!

TAXES

2006-04-16T22:23:00.000-06:00

Well, I finally did all my taxes. I have been dragging my feet because we had to pay in alot this time around! I was shocked actually since we have two children and own a house. But, I suppose we have not owned the house long enough! We got a refund back from the feds but had to pay into the state. Crazy...I really do hate income tax; especially since it is technically illegal. Just ask Matt or his dad! We pay enough in taxes every else! Imagine how much more money we could have in our bank accounts if we didn't have to pay an income tax. I think I would pay someone to remodel our kitchen instead of doing it ourselves! How about you? What would you do with the extra money the feds didn't take? Or if you are a lucky person who gets money back how will you spend it?

I'm In!

2006-04-09T21:41:00.000-06:00

Well, I've finally started my own blog. I am now part of the 'club'. My creative juices have been sapped by the blog setup process. I can't even spell anymore. So, I will write more tomorrow when I am refreshed.
Chow!