Amy loves music as most kids do. She doesn't like to perform for the camera. She would much rather look at the pictures on the camera. However I got a few videos of her the other day while she was dancing and running in circles. Enjoy!
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Friday, May 28, 2010
Science Night
Wednesday was a fun night at the boys' school. The kids get to participate in Science Night by doing science projects, talking with scientists, and/or doing the egg drop. Aaron was one of about 5 physicians that participated. 
The other scientists were anywhere from physical therapists, to microbiologists, to astronomers, to engineers. The kids had to find four different kind of scientists: one that works in a lab, one that works outside, one that works with humans or animals and one that ummm, I can't remember.
Amy was really interested in the science project that tested the Vitamin C content of citrus fruit. She wanted to eat the different fruits on display.
The egg drop was fun for the kids. David did one this year, it survived with just a small crack. He just wrapped it in layers of plastic grocery bags and then put it in a shoe box. Aaron got a video of it, but it's sideways - oops. The firefighters dropped them from about 40 feet up.
It had been raining most of the day, but stopped about an hour before the event, so we weren't soaked. It was pretty chilly though.
Amy had fun running away from Mr. M* - the husband of Timothy's teacher. He's in charge of the fabulous garden, you can see part of it behind him.
She's growing up way too fast!
The other scientists were anywhere from physical therapists, to microbiologists, to astronomers, to engineers. The kids had to find four different kind of scientists: one that works in a lab, one that works outside, one that works with humans or animals and one that ummm, I can't remember.Amy was really interested in the science project that tested the Vitamin C content of citrus fruit. She wanted to eat the different fruits on display.
The egg drop was fun for the kids. David did one this year, it survived with just a small crack. He just wrapped it in layers of plastic grocery bags and then put it in a shoe box. Aaron got a video of it, but it's sideways - oops. The firefighters dropped them from about 40 feet up.
It had been raining most of the day, but stopped about an hour before the event, so we weren't soaked. It was pretty chilly though.
Amy had fun running away from Mr. M* - the husband of Timothy's teacher. He's in charge of the fabulous garden, you can see part of it behind him.
She's growing up way too fast!Thursday, May 27, 2010
Fishing pics
The Cub Scout leader got some pictures of David at the Fishing activity last Saturday.
But he was very happy when he finally got his fish.
He wasn't too thrilled to have to wait so long
But he was very happy when he finally got his fish.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
So Close
Although we didn't end up buying the house, we did find a place to rent. We called just before the deal fell apart and found out there was an opening in this little subdivision of duplexes. The rent is really cheap, and they have 3 bedrooms. We're taking a bit of a leap of faith since we've only seen the outside and not the inside. However we've done that before, and it turned out alright. I kept calling back to the manager when I thought of more questions, and I felt bad that I kept bugging her. So I waited about a week and when I had about 4 questions instead of 1. First I asked if she had a timeline of when she would know who she was going to rent it out to. She said, "no" and then apologized for forgetting to run the credit check on us - I had sent a small fee the week before. "But then I went to church on Sunday and found out you are LDS too (I've been in touch with the RS Pres there and told her we were applying for a spot there). So I'm not going to run the credit check. The apartment is yours if you still want it, and I'll give you your check back when you get here." Talk about small world. We have yet to sign a lease, but we are excited that we have a place to live, even if it is temporary.
Since we aren't buying a house right now were are taking a little bigger vacation than we were planning on. We are going to San Diego! It should be fun. David and Timothy are really excited about Legoland. It will be a little crazy because we are planning to move as soon as Aaron is done and leave a couple days later on our vacation. So we'll come home to a boxed up house, but oh well. We'll get to see my family on the way down.
Aaron was on back up call on Saturday, but never got called in. That was his last call of residency!!! Or so I thought. This next month his schedule is really open, so if there is a call for sale he may take it to earn some extra book money. But at least it will be optional! We have some "graduation" events coming up. Graduation rounds and the end of the year banquet are in less than 2 weeks! And Aaron's last day is less than 5 weeks away! The end of residency is so close I can feel it.
Since we aren't buying a house right now were are taking a little bigger vacation than we were planning on. We are going to San Diego! It should be fun. David and Timothy are really excited about Legoland. It will be a little crazy because we are planning to move as soon as Aaron is done and leave a couple days later on our vacation. So we'll come home to a boxed up house, but oh well. We'll get to see my family on the way down.
Aaron was on back up call on Saturday, but never got called in. That was his last call of residency!!! Or so I thought. This next month his schedule is really open, so if there is a call for sale he may take it to earn some extra book money. But at least it will be optional! We have some "graduation" events coming up. Graduation rounds and the end of the year banquet are in less than 2 weeks! And Aaron's last day is less than 5 weeks away! The end of residency is so close I can feel it.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Another busy week
What a great week we've had. Despite the rainy and cooler weather it's been fun. Last Saturday was busy. Timothy had a tee ball game at 9:00, then I had a baby shower at 10:30, David had a birthday party at 11:00 and then we finally met up at the house at about 12:30. Amy was already napping, and Aaron and Timothy were finishing up lunch. Amy woke up from her nap, then Aaron picked up David from his birthday party and soon after I took Timothy to a birthday party. I picked up Timothy at 5:30 and then came home for dinner. I still feel like I'm missing something... Oh well. We had a great dinner and that's all I can think of.
Sunday was a pretty typical Sunday. Amy woke up late though, and subsequently had a hard time going down for an early nap. She woke up after about 40 minutes. Oh well. After a quick lunch we headed to church. Everything went well, Amy even went to nursery. I stayed with her until both nursery workers were there and then left waving good-bye. She was crying when I left, but I saw a nursery worker take her by the hand and find a book to read, and she was fine. After church we had a quick dinner and then Aaron went home teaching. We just played together and cleaned up the kitchen a little.
Monday was the last of our nice days. The clouds started rolling in. It was just a laundry day. We had FHE that night, one that David had planned.
Tuesday - I can't think of anything out of the ordinary... Wednesday was an early release day. It was nice outside for a while. We went to the library after school, and by the time we headed out to the van it was raining, and just as we got home it started pouring! Aaron and David has scouts that night. Aaron had to stay for the committee meeting, which ran long. David stayed with him; it was a late night for David.
Thursday I took Amy to co-op so I could exercise and get a few boxes packed. That evening Aaron had planned to go to the temple to do sealings, then we found out there was a baseball practice for David. So we ended up taking the kids to two different houses. I dropped of Amy and Timothy first and then David - he stayed with a friend on the team, so David could go to practice with him. Then I headed over to the clinic to pick up Aaron - it's on the way to the temple. I dropped off David at 5:10. About 5:12 I hit traffic. After sitting in traffic for about 10 minutes I decided to turn around and get to the freeway another way. I still had 30 minutes before I needed to pick up Aaron, so I thought there was plenty of time. I was wrong. Aaron called at 5:48 and I had to tell him that I was just then getting on the freeway. I picked him up 20 minutes later, and we got to the temple about 6:30. This is one of the many reasons I will be glad to move away from a big city!
Most of the sealing rooms were being used by wards fulfilling temple assignments, so they were waiting to put us in a room where they were short patrons. Aaron and I just enjoyed being together and talking quietly. We finally went into a room at 7:00, but then more people showed up so we went to another room and got started at 7:15! I had told the babysitters we'd be there at 8:00 and we didn't even leave the sealing room until almost 8:30! It was another late night.
Even with the late night Amy woke up at 5:45 on Friday morning!!! I knew it was going to be a long day! She was really whiny and I ended up putting her down for a nap at 10:45! She slept until 12:30 when I went to a visiting teaching appointment. She eventually calmed down. After school we had to hurry and get ready for a baseball game. I got everything ready for dinner and then pulled the fish out of the fridge and realized it was spoiled. I hadn't realized it had been in there for 6 days. I didn't have any time to make anything else because we had a baseball game. So we got Chinese take out - we've never used take out as a back up plan before.
Friday hadn't been really rainy, but as we headed over to the field we could see the dark clouds rolling in. We suspected the game would be canceled. However it was almost 7:00 before it started pouring and hailing, and the game was called. We'd had 4 horrible innings and we we're very glad the game was called. I don't think we could endure 2 more innings like that. I think the score was 19-5 at that point. Yikes. So we went home and had a fire in the fireplace and hot chocolate.
Today (wow I'm almost caught up!) we had another busy day. After some house cleaning I had a baby shower at 10:00 - I took Amy with me. Aaron and the boys went to a baptism at the same time. Then they went to a fishing event at a lake in town. For $5 each they got a fishing pole and got to fish for an hour - each of the boys caught a fish. They were running a little late, so Aaron came home to clean the fish, then we ate lunch. Amy had already eaten and was napping. I took David and timothy to another baseball game for David and Aaron met up there after Amy woke up from her nap. Today's game was much better, and the sun even came out. It was nice and warm!
After the game Aaron headed up north to play Whirlyball with the residents and staff. He said it was pretty fun. Apparently you drive around in bumper car like vehicles and toss a ball around with some kind of hand held net (short lacrosse stick???). Anyway, I took the kids home and had dinner and gave the boys haircuts. And that's about it. Phew!!
Two quick videos - on the 17th the kids were making a lot of noise in the kitchen!
And Friday Amy was enjoying a cup of hot chocolate:
Sunday was a pretty typical Sunday. Amy woke up late though, and subsequently had a hard time going down for an early nap. She woke up after about 40 minutes. Oh well. After a quick lunch we headed to church. Everything went well, Amy even went to nursery. I stayed with her until both nursery workers were there and then left waving good-bye. She was crying when I left, but I saw a nursery worker take her by the hand and find a book to read, and she was fine. After church we had a quick dinner and then Aaron went home teaching. We just played together and cleaned up the kitchen a little.
Monday was the last of our nice days. The clouds started rolling in. It was just a laundry day. We had FHE that night, one that David had planned.
Tuesday - I can't think of anything out of the ordinary... Wednesday was an early release day. It was nice outside for a while. We went to the library after school, and by the time we headed out to the van it was raining, and just as we got home it started pouring! Aaron and David has scouts that night. Aaron had to stay for the committee meeting, which ran long. David stayed with him; it was a late night for David.
Thursday I took Amy to co-op so I could exercise and get a few boxes packed. That evening Aaron had planned to go to the temple to do sealings, then we found out there was a baseball practice for David. So we ended up taking the kids to two different houses. I dropped of Amy and Timothy first and then David - he stayed with a friend on the team, so David could go to practice with him. Then I headed over to the clinic to pick up Aaron - it's on the way to the temple. I dropped off David at 5:10. About 5:12 I hit traffic. After sitting in traffic for about 10 minutes I decided to turn around and get to the freeway another way. I still had 30 minutes before I needed to pick up Aaron, so I thought there was plenty of time. I was wrong. Aaron called at 5:48 and I had to tell him that I was just then getting on the freeway. I picked him up 20 minutes later, and we got to the temple about 6:30. This is one of the many reasons I will be glad to move away from a big city!
Most of the sealing rooms were being used by wards fulfilling temple assignments, so they were waiting to put us in a room where they were short patrons. Aaron and I just enjoyed being together and talking quietly. We finally went into a room at 7:00, but then more people showed up so we went to another room and got started at 7:15! I had told the babysitters we'd be there at 8:00 and we didn't even leave the sealing room until almost 8:30! It was another late night.
Even with the late night Amy woke up at 5:45 on Friday morning!!! I knew it was going to be a long day! She was really whiny and I ended up putting her down for a nap at 10:45! She slept until 12:30 when I went to a visiting teaching appointment. She eventually calmed down. After school we had to hurry and get ready for a baseball game. I got everything ready for dinner and then pulled the fish out of the fridge and realized it was spoiled. I hadn't realized it had been in there for 6 days. I didn't have any time to make anything else because we had a baseball game. So we got Chinese take out - we've never used take out as a back up plan before.
Friday hadn't been really rainy, but as we headed over to the field we could see the dark clouds rolling in. We suspected the game would be canceled. However it was almost 7:00 before it started pouring and hailing, and the game was called. We'd had 4 horrible innings and we we're very glad the game was called. I don't think we could endure 2 more innings like that. I think the score was 19-5 at that point. Yikes. So we went home and had a fire in the fireplace and hot chocolate.
Today (wow I'm almost caught up!) we had another busy day. After some house cleaning I had a baby shower at 10:00 - I took Amy with me. Aaron and the boys went to a baptism at the same time. Then they went to a fishing event at a lake in town. For $5 each they got a fishing pole and got to fish for an hour - each of the boys caught a fish. They were running a little late, so Aaron came home to clean the fish, then we ate lunch. Amy had already eaten and was napping. I took David and timothy to another baseball game for David and Aaron met up there after Amy woke up from her nap. Today's game was much better, and the sun even came out. It was nice and warm!
After the game Aaron headed up north to play Whirlyball with the residents and staff. He said it was pretty fun. Apparently you drive around in bumper car like vehicles and toss a ball around with some kind of hand held net (short lacrosse stick???). Anyway, I took the kids home and had dinner and gave the boys haircuts. And that's about it. Phew!!
Two quick videos - on the 17th the kids were making a lot of noise in the kitchen!
And Friday Amy was enjoying a cup of hot chocolate:
Saturday, May 15, 2010
More business
Monday was a rainy day, so I mostly stayed home and did laundry. We went out for ice cream for Family Home Evening. David and I had a couple of gift certificates from our birthday.
Tuesday David had a baseball game. Aaron was home in time to come, and we all had fun. Except David who stuck out twice.
Wednesday afternoon there was a "volunteer tea" at the school. They invited all the parents (grandparents etc.) who volunteer for the school for cake punch and some kid performances. Both Timothy and David's classes performed.
Timothy's class did a "round dance".
And sang a little Hawaiian song,
and "You are My Sunshine"
David looks short because he's next to a tall girl who is standing on the risers and he's on the floor of the stage. David's class and the other Kindergarten class sang a cute song which I can't remember.
Then David's class joined another 2nd grade class to sing "8 Days a Week". And this fine number:
The parents loved the song selection!
We also had a resident dinner Wednesday night. It was at a Thai restaurant. It was close to the church so we dropped in, and then I took David to scouts and returned. Amy wasn't content to sit in her high chair, so I took Amy outside to walk around until our food came. It took almost an hour after ordering!!! Good food, but I think it's ridiculous we had to wait that long.
Thursday I dropped Amy off at co-op so I could run to DI and the store, and get a few things done at home. She took a 2 1/2 hour nap after that. She was still cranky after she woke up and basically threw a fit for the next 45 minutes. Meanwhile I had to pick up the kids from school. We didn't stay long on the playground after school because she was being such a pain. I think I figured out what was going on. Today I discovered she cut another tooth. I'll have to check and see if there's more than one. Thursday night we had another tee ball game. Aaron met us at the field on the way home from work. When we got home the power was out. They power company said it would be 10:30 before it was on. Luckily they got it back on just after 8:00.
Friday I ran to the store to get birthday party gifts for the boys, and spent the rest of the time at home. Amy took another long nap, but was happy when she woke up this time. Aaron was running late and wasn't able to make it home before David's baseball game started. So he got there as soon as he could. David had a great game! He got on base every time - 3 hits, 2 RBIs and got 2 outs while playing second base and then shortstop. Timothy loves that we were right next to the park so he could play there the whole time. Amy mostly dragged around the toy tow truck she brought. I was glad that Aaron switched off with me so I could watch some of the game as well as chase Amy. While he was watching Amy on the playground he ran into one of his attendings. His son was on the opposing team. It was a great game, the team played well together, and got some great hits, and they won - that helps make it great too.
I'll have to post again another time. I'm almost caught up.
Tuesday David had a baseball game. Aaron was home in time to come, and we all had fun. Except David who stuck out twice.
Wednesday afternoon there was a "volunteer tea" at the school. They invited all the parents (grandparents etc.) who volunteer for the school for cake punch and some kid performances. Both Timothy and David's classes performed.
Timothy's class did a "round dance".
And sang a little Hawaiian song,and "You are My Sunshine"
Then my camera batteries died. I let the camera sit for a while, and was glad the batteries had enough juice to get a few of David's performances. Most of the pictures didn't turn out that well.
David looks short because he's next to a tall girl who is standing on the risers and he's on the floor of the stage. David's class and the other Kindergarten class sang a cute song which I can't remember.Then David's class joined another 2nd grade class to sing "8 Days a Week". And this fine number:
The parents loved the song selection!
We also had a resident dinner Wednesday night. It was at a Thai restaurant. It was close to the church so we dropped in, and then I took David to scouts and returned. Amy wasn't content to sit in her high chair, so I took Amy outside to walk around until our food came. It took almost an hour after ordering!!! Good food, but I think it's ridiculous we had to wait that long.
Thursday I dropped Amy off at co-op so I could run to DI and the store, and get a few things done at home. She took a 2 1/2 hour nap after that. She was still cranky after she woke up and basically threw a fit for the next 45 minutes. Meanwhile I had to pick up the kids from school. We didn't stay long on the playground after school because she was being such a pain. I think I figured out what was going on. Today I discovered she cut another tooth. I'll have to check and see if there's more than one. Thursday night we had another tee ball game. Aaron met us at the field on the way home from work. When we got home the power was out. They power company said it would be 10:30 before it was on. Luckily they got it back on just after 8:00.
Friday I ran to the store to get birthday party gifts for the boys, and spent the rest of the time at home. Amy took another long nap, but was happy when she woke up this time. Aaron was running late and wasn't able to make it home before David's baseball game started. So he got there as soon as he could. David had a great game! He got on base every time - 3 hits, 2 RBIs and got 2 outs while playing second base and then shortstop. Timothy loves that we were right next to the park so he could play there the whole time. Amy mostly dragged around the toy tow truck she brought. I was glad that Aaron switched off with me so I could watch some of the game as well as chase Amy. While he was watching Amy on the playground he ran into one of his attendings. His son was on the opposing team. It was a great game, the team played well together, and got some great hits, and they won - that helps make it great too.
I'll have to post again another time. I'm almost caught up.
Busy, busy
We have been pretty busy for the last couple of weeks. I haven't been great a journaling our "goings ons". So let's see if I can do a quick synopsis. Yeah, right.
During the week it has been pretty normal with baseball or tee ball in the evening. I am loving Aaron's schedule right now. Although he catches the bus pretty early he's often done by 4:00 and home by 5:00. So we are able to eat together before heading out again. He did have to work last weekend, but that may be his LAST CALL for residency! He has one more back up call scheduled. So he might have one more call, but I think I can handle that!
Last Saturday while Aaron worked the boys had a primary activity. It was held at the other building in our stake. It takes 25 minutes to get there! There was no point in going back home to sit for 30 minutes and then drive back, so I planned to just stay there. They provided a snack for the parents that wanted to stay - it was mostly people from our ward - we are the furthest away from that building. Another mom mentioned she was going to the grocery store. I had wanted to go before the activity but ran out of time, so Amy and I went with her. They had a nursery for little kids, but Amy had a nasty runny nose, so I didn't leave her.
We had a little adventure trying to find the store and then trying to find our way back onto the bridge to take us back to the church. We were only 5 minutes late - oops! The kids had fun at the activity. When I told David I went to the store he was upset, but not because I went without him, but because he thought I was staying there and realized he couldn't find me afterward because I was gone. "You should have told me you were going." I felt bad, but also thought it was a little funny. He wasn't scared that he couldn't find me until several minutes after he found me and realized I wasn't in the building at all.
I already mentioned that we went to a park before dinner. It really was a beautiful day. We also made a quick stop at the library to pick up a book that was on hold. I think we played some games after dinner. David and I worked on his talk.
Sunday was Mother's Day. Aaron was post call, so I made breakfast for the kids. I was surprised when Aaron walked through the door at 9:00 am! I didn't think he'd be home that early! He ate some breakfast, played with the kids, started on dinner, and read the paper while I showered and make some dessert. Then we opened Mother's Day gifts. David wanted to be the cameraman. So these pictures aren't the greatest, but he had fun.
Timothy made this in his Kindergarten class.
I finally have one of those prized handprint gifts.
(yes they call him Timmy, even though he prefers Timothy.)
I got some socks too.
David wrote the poem, and then decorated it too.
Aaron got me some towels to put in our new bathroom - wherever that may be.
Then at about 10:45 Aaron took a nap and so did Amy. They were both up around 12:00 and then got ready for church. Church was great. Except for the fact that Amy couldn't go to nursery because of her runny nose. She was happy to stay with us, but not happy to sit still on the chair. She tried to run behind the piano, and all over. Aaron ended up taking her out in the hall. I took her during Relief Society. I got her sit down and eats a snack, but not for long. I took her out a few times. One time I made a comment, so I didn't have my eye on her, and just as I finished she fell and hit her head on a chair. She was fine, but we had to leave once again.
It took us a while to get out of the building after church, and we finally got home. Aaron made a delicious dinner, and we had a yummy cake. Then we took a walk, because it was a fabulous sunny afternoon.
I have so much more to catch up on. I'll get other post done soon.
During the week it has been pretty normal with baseball or tee ball in the evening. I am loving Aaron's schedule right now. Although he catches the bus pretty early he's often done by 4:00 and home by 5:00. So we are able to eat together before heading out again. He did have to work last weekend, but that may be his LAST CALL for residency! He has one more back up call scheduled. So he might have one more call, but I think I can handle that!
Last Saturday while Aaron worked the boys had a primary activity. It was held at the other building in our stake. It takes 25 minutes to get there! There was no point in going back home to sit for 30 minutes and then drive back, so I planned to just stay there. They provided a snack for the parents that wanted to stay - it was mostly people from our ward - we are the furthest away from that building. Another mom mentioned she was going to the grocery store. I had wanted to go before the activity but ran out of time, so Amy and I went with her. They had a nursery for little kids, but Amy had a nasty runny nose, so I didn't leave her.
We had a little adventure trying to find the store and then trying to find our way back onto the bridge to take us back to the church. We were only 5 minutes late - oops! The kids had fun at the activity. When I told David I went to the store he was upset, but not because I went without him, but because he thought I was staying there and realized he couldn't find me afterward because I was gone. "You should have told me you were going." I felt bad, but also thought it was a little funny. He wasn't scared that he couldn't find me until several minutes after he found me and realized I wasn't in the building at all.
I already mentioned that we went to a park before dinner. It really was a beautiful day. We also made a quick stop at the library to pick up a book that was on hold. I think we played some games after dinner. David and I worked on his talk.
Sunday was Mother's Day. Aaron was post call, so I made breakfast for the kids. I was surprised when Aaron walked through the door at 9:00 am! I didn't think he'd be home that early! He ate some breakfast, played with the kids, started on dinner, and read the paper while I showered and make some dessert. Then we opened Mother's Day gifts. David wanted to be the cameraman. So these pictures aren't the greatest, but he had fun.
Timothy made this in his Kindergarten class.
I finally have one of those prized handprint gifts.(yes they call him Timmy, even though he prefers Timothy.)
I got some socks too.
David wrote the poem, and then decorated it too.
Aaron got me some towels to put in our new bathroom - wherever that may be.Then at about 10:45 Aaron took a nap and so did Amy. They were both up around 12:00 and then got ready for church. Church was great. Except for the fact that Amy couldn't go to nursery because of her runny nose. She was happy to stay with us, but not happy to sit still on the chair. She tried to run behind the piano, and all over. Aaron ended up taking her out in the hall. I took her during Relief Society. I got her sit down and eats a snack, but not for long. I took her out a few times. One time I made a comment, so I didn't have my eye on her, and just as I finished she fell and hit her head on a chair. She was fine, but we had to leave once again.
It took us a while to get out of the building after church, and we finally got home. Aaron made a delicious dinner, and we had a yummy cake. Then we took a walk, because it was a fabulous sunny afternoon.
I have so much more to catch up on. I'll get other post done soon.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Living Healthy
I consider myself to be a fairly healthy person, but over the last few months my diet choices haven't been that great. Since my gall bladder surgery I've been able to eat everything again, and I went a little overboard. It was also hard while Aaron was gone. I fixed a lot more quick meals, and ate late night snacks, ok all day snacks. Meanwhile Aaron started exercising while he was at his parents' house. He asked me if I wanted to exercise with him in the morning. So we agreed to wake up early at 5:30 am to exercise. The first morning was great. I put in a Tae-bo video and had a great work out. Aaron wasn't a big fan. He wasn't used to all the different moves etc., and missed his bus. He decided walking 20 flights of stairs was better. So at the hospital he is taking the stairs now. He's often on the 9th floor, so he gets quite a work out!
The next day I got up at 5:30 again and Aaron got up 10 minutes later to get ready for work. He still missed his bus.
Day 3 - I was really tired but I got up at 5:30 and Aaron got up with me to get ready. While Aaron was in the shower Amy woke up. At 5:37! And insisted that I turn the "movie off"!! So much for that. Aaron discovered that his bus come 10 minutes early!!! So he's out the door at 6:20 am.
Day 4 - I decide to sleep in. Aaron got up to shower and guess what - Amy woke up. Aaron got her some breakfast, I tried to sleep. Aaron had to leave, so I took Amy out of her seat, and went back to bed. Amy found her half-empty bowl of oatmeal and decided to finish it off in our room. Some time later, half asleep, I brought her up into the bed, and I don't know if she fell asleep or not, but I did. Until Timothy woke up at 7:00.
Day 5 - It was a beautiful sunny day, so I got up with Aaron at 5:30 and made him breakfast. Amy woke up just before 6:00. Instead of doing Tae-bo I decided to walk the kids to school. It's been a while since I've done that. It seems like I always have places I need to be, or the weather isn't cooperating. But I finally did it, and it felt good. I even did some Pilates after Amy and I got back.
Now I have another incentive to live healthier. We had life insurance exams a couple weeks ago, and the results came back. We qualify at their lowest rate, however my cholesterol is high again (it was high about 5 years ago). Not really high, but over the 200 mark. So hello to more beans, flax seed and oatmeal, and good-bye to lots of eggs, cheese, and processed foods. Maybe this time I can keep it down for good. So send me all your bean recipes!
The next day I got up at 5:30 again and Aaron got up 10 minutes later to get ready for work. He still missed his bus.
Day 3 - I was really tired but I got up at 5:30 and Aaron got up with me to get ready. While Aaron was in the shower Amy woke up. At 5:37! And insisted that I turn the "movie off"!! So much for that. Aaron discovered that his bus come 10 minutes early!!! So he's out the door at 6:20 am.
Day 4 - I decide to sleep in. Aaron got up to shower and guess what - Amy woke up. Aaron got her some breakfast, I tried to sleep. Aaron had to leave, so I took Amy out of her seat, and went back to bed. Amy found her half-empty bowl of oatmeal and decided to finish it off in our room. Some time later, half asleep, I brought her up into the bed, and I don't know if she fell asleep or not, but I did. Until Timothy woke up at 7:00.
Day 5 - It was a beautiful sunny day, so I got up with Aaron at 5:30 and made him breakfast. Amy woke up just before 6:00. Instead of doing Tae-bo I decided to walk the kids to school. It's been a while since I've done that. It seems like I always have places I need to be, or the weather isn't cooperating. But I finally did it, and it felt good. I even did some Pilates after Amy and I got back.
Now I have another incentive to live healthier. We had life insurance exams a couple weeks ago, and the results came back. We qualify at their lowest rate, however my cholesterol is high again (it was high about 5 years ago). Not really high, but over the 200 mark. So hello to more beans, flax seed and oatmeal, and good-bye to lots of eggs, cheese, and processed foods. Maybe this time I can keep it down for good. So send me all your bean recipes!
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Keeping my pride in check
Yesterday I had a funny experience. It was a quiet realization, that even though I try not to compare myself to others, I sometimes still do.
It was a beautiful sunny day here yesterday, and I decided to take the kids to the park before dinner. We ran into some good friends there. The kids had fun playing together, and I got to talk to the dad. The mom was at the store by herself (lucky her). I hesitate to write this because I know she reads this blog. She was picking up dinner for the family to eat at the park. This is where I started comparing myself.
My thought process:
"Oh that sounds like I good idea. I should have brought dinner to the park. Wouldn't it be nice to just pick up some dinner somewhere? No, that's not in the budget. Won't it be nice to be able to do that someday. Just go out to dinner on a whim.
"That's OK. The kids will have a healthy meal that's cheaper at home (I didn't even realize I was comparing myself at this point)." Please realize I wasn't judging her as a good mom or bad mom - I know she is a great mom!
When the mom arrived with the food I started getting hungry. It was 5:30, so we waved good-bye to our friends and headed home. It's a good thing there are no fast food restaurants on the way home from the park. I was really tempted. But I kept thinking I was making a "better choice" by making something at home.
It was getting too late to make what I had planned. So I ended up with mac and cheese and hot dogs. Go ahead, laugh - I did after I realized what I had done. While my meal may have been cheaper, it was by no means healthier.
It really does no good to compare myself to others. Either to wish I could do what they do, or to think that I make "better" choices. One thing I have gleaned by reading others' blogs is all the great ideas on parenting and fun things that they do as families. I've also learned that I am not alone in the trials of life. But I have to be careful not to compare. Just observe and learn.
I realize I don't have to be like the other moms, but I love to get a glimpse of what others are doing, share in the joys, laugh at the mishaps, sympathize with frustrations, and give encouraging words. So I was grateful for the experience yesterday. Grateful that I learned something. The important thing was my friend was spending time with her family, and I was was spending time with my family, what we had for dinner wasn't relevant.
Hopefully I can do a better job of observing without comparing.
It was a beautiful sunny day here yesterday, and I decided to take the kids to the park before dinner. We ran into some good friends there. The kids had fun playing together, and I got to talk to the dad. The mom was at the store by herself (lucky her). I hesitate to write this because I know she reads this blog. She was picking up dinner for the family to eat at the park. This is where I started comparing myself.
My thought process:
"Oh that sounds like I good idea. I should have brought dinner to the park. Wouldn't it be nice to just pick up some dinner somewhere? No, that's not in the budget. Won't it be nice to be able to do that someday. Just go out to dinner on a whim.
"That's OK. The kids will have a healthy meal that's cheaper at home (I didn't even realize I was comparing myself at this point)." Please realize I wasn't judging her as a good mom or bad mom - I know she is a great mom!
When the mom arrived with the food I started getting hungry. It was 5:30, so we waved good-bye to our friends and headed home. It's a good thing there are no fast food restaurants on the way home from the park. I was really tempted. But I kept thinking I was making a "better choice" by making something at home.
It was getting too late to make what I had planned. So I ended up with mac and cheese and hot dogs. Go ahead, laugh - I did after I realized what I had done. While my meal may have been cheaper, it was by no means healthier.
It really does no good to compare myself to others. Either to wish I could do what they do, or to think that I make "better" choices. One thing I have gleaned by reading others' blogs is all the great ideas on parenting and fun things that they do as families. I've also learned that I am not alone in the trials of life. But I have to be careful not to compare. Just observe and learn.
I realize I don't have to be like the other moms, but I love to get a glimpse of what others are doing, share in the joys, laugh at the mishaps, sympathize with frustrations, and give encouraging words. So I was grateful for the experience yesterday. Grateful that I learned something. The important thing was my friend was spending time with her family, and I was was spending time with my family, what we had for dinner wasn't relevant.
Hopefully I can do a better job of observing without comparing.
Olives and Flowers
On Tuesday Amy had her first experience with putting olives on her fingers.
Aaron was on call last night. He knew he wouldn't be here this morning for Mother's Day, so he bought be these flowers on the way home from work on Tuesday.
Aaron was on call last night. He knew he wouldn't be here this morning for Mother's Day, so he bought be these flowers on the way home from work on Tuesday.
Happy Mother's Day
I love Mother's Day. Not because I get pampered, or receive gifts, or cards. It's because I get to remember all the wonderful things about my mother: all the things she taught us, all the things she did for us, her wonderful example. It's also because I get to reflect on my privilege to be a mother at this time. I am so blessed to be a mother to 3 wonderful children.
I'm not really eloquent or anything, but I just wanted to express my gratitude for the mothers I have known, and for the opportunity to be a mother. I know so many women who want to be mothers, who haven't had the opportunity yet. I pray they will have a chance someday, because they are already great teachers, and examples to the children that surround them now. Happy Mother's Day to all women who are mothers and who will be mothers someday!
I'm not really eloquent or anything, but I just wanted to express my gratitude for the mothers I have known, and for the opportunity to be a mother. I know so many women who want to be mothers, who haven't had the opportunity yet. I pray they will have a chance someday, because they are already great teachers, and examples to the children that surround them now. Happy Mother's Day to all women who are mothers and who will be mothers someday!
Saturday, May 8, 2010
The house
I've been avoiding talking about the house. There are many reasons why. But basically it boils down to I didn't want to get my hopes up, and I didn't want to discuss all the negotiations. And now I'm glad I didn't. That's because a couple days ago Aaron and I decided, after much discussion and praying, to let go of the house. It was hard because the house seemed so perfect for us, and for our family. We felt good about making an offer on the house. We had a signed contract about two months ago. We felt it was a little over priced, but we were willing to take a bit of a risk.
From there things got a little crazy. After the inspection we asked the sellers to replace the roof, which they did after taking several bids. It seemed like a done deal after that, but I knew that until we closed anything could happen. And it did.
To sum it up we were applying for a USDA loan which doesn't require a down payment. The lender follows the HUD regulations on lots of things including the well. Thus, they only allow four connections to a well, and this property was connected to a well that had five. We tried to get a new well agreement so we could apply for an exception. However, all parties had to sign it and one wouldn't. He wouldn't budge, he had his reasons, (not that we agreed with them) so we eventually gave up trying to negotiate.
There are a whole lot of other details that I don't want to get into, but the end result is we are not buying a house right now. It's disappointing, but I tried really hard not to get too emotionally invested. I'm glad because otherwise I would be heartbroken. I love the house. I had a post explaining everything about it, complete with pictures, ready to go, but I'm glad I never posted it. I think I'll delete it now. However I don't love it enough to create a problem with a neighbor, and ruin a friendship before it begins (Remember it's a small town -I'm sure we'll meet in person at some point). So far there have been no tears on my part.
I appreciate all the kind and encouraging words from those we've talked to. I do believe that there is a reason we we're lead to put an offer on this house, even though it fell apart in the end. We plan to rent for a while. Maybe there's a better house, that is more affordable, but isn't on the market yet. Maybe we won't end up staying there very long, even though that's the plan right now. Maybe we just need to save up money for a down payment, and we can still buy the house later with a conventional loan (which won't deal with the well issue). Maybe we were just meant to learn something from the process.
So here's some of what I've learned thus far:
I'm glad we are still on good terms with the seller. They expressed their sympathy with our situation. They wanted to sell to us, and we wanted to buy from them, but other things got in the way that we couldn't work around. So onto more happy topics on the next post, I promise.
From there things got a little crazy. After the inspection we asked the sellers to replace the roof, which they did after taking several bids. It seemed like a done deal after that, but I knew that until we closed anything could happen. And it did.
To sum it up we were applying for a USDA loan which doesn't require a down payment. The lender follows the HUD regulations on lots of things including the well. Thus, they only allow four connections to a well, and this property was connected to a well that had five. We tried to get a new well agreement so we could apply for an exception. However, all parties had to sign it and one wouldn't. He wouldn't budge, he had his reasons, (not that we agreed with them) so we eventually gave up trying to negotiate.
There are a whole lot of other details that I don't want to get into, but the end result is we are not buying a house right now. It's disappointing, but I tried really hard not to get too emotionally invested. I'm glad because otherwise I would be heartbroken. I love the house. I had a post explaining everything about it, complete with pictures, ready to go, but I'm glad I never posted it. I think I'll delete it now. However I don't love it enough to create a problem with a neighbor, and ruin a friendship before it begins (Remember it's a small town -I'm sure we'll meet in person at some point). So far there have been no tears on my part.
I appreciate all the kind and encouraging words from those we've talked to. I do believe that there is a reason we we're lead to put an offer on this house, even though it fell apart in the end. We plan to rent for a while. Maybe there's a better house, that is more affordable, but isn't on the market yet. Maybe we won't end up staying there very long, even though that's the plan right now. Maybe we just need to save up money for a down payment, and we can still buy the house later with a conventional loan (which won't deal with the well issue). Maybe we were just meant to learn something from the process.
So here's some of what I've learned thus far:
- Ask LOTS of questions
- If there is a well, get the results from the required testing (that way you will know it has actually been tested).
- Find a real estate agent that has a lot of experience and has a dynamic personality.
- You can be friends (or at least friendly) with someone even if you don't see eye to eye all the time.
- Buying a house can be really frustrating, but not all experiences are the same. Maybe I'll take a clue from my sis and save up until we can buy a house in cash!
I'm glad we are still on good terms with the seller. They expressed their sympathy with our situation. They wanted to sell to us, and we wanted to buy from them, but other things got in the way that we couldn't work around. So onto more happy topics on the next post, I promise.
Cub Scout Day Camp
Last Saturday David attended his first Cub Scout Day Camp. Aaron drove another leader and 5 rowdy boys up to the camp. They had a lot of fun. There was a service project, craft projects and an archery range and a BB gun range.
David's favorite part was the hot dogs for lunch :)
Aaron took some pictures while he was there.
They came home happy, tired and dirty.
Timothy, Amy and I had fun at home. No pictures, since Aaron had the camera.
David's favorite part was the hot dogs for lunch :)
Aaron took some pictures while he was there.
They came home happy, tired and dirty.
Timothy, Amy and I had fun at home. No pictures, since Aaron had the camera.
Monday, May 3, 2010
David's baptism
Yesterday was a wonderful day for our family. David turned 8 about 3 weeks ago and made the decision to be baptized. For a long time he's be asking me "not to make a big deal about it". And it's hard not to, when I know that he's made a very important and positive choice. But I've respected his wishes. Even though those that attended his baptism wanted to shake his hand and congratulate him, he took it in stride and was very mature. He smiled and said "Thank-you" instead of "mind your own business" like I know he wanted to say. I was very proud of him.
The day started with a few presents including a bookmark,
and his own set of scriptures with a carrying case.
He also got a new white shirt - he desperately needed one. We were pleasantly surprised to see him reading his scriptures during Stake Conference in the morning. It could be because he forgot his bag of activities at home, and he was bored. But that's better than bugging his brother because he was bored.
After stake conference we had a little down time before our wonderful home teachers came over. Then we got ready for dinner afterward, and printed off programs etc. Aaron and David went over to the church early to check on the font. (They found a black widow floating in the water.) They made sure the set up was ready. I left about 20 minutes later and picked up Amy and Evelyn on the way. Valerie, Christian and their boys were already there.
People started arriving. We got a table ready for refreshments. Then I took a few pictures of Aaron and David in front of the church.
We got in a few minutes late, and almost everyone was there. Nathan was missing. He was driving back from Canada. We started about 10 minutes late, hoping he would arrive soon. He missed the baptism, but slipped in while Aaron and David were getting dressed and we were singing hymns. So he was there to stand in the circle for the confirmation. And I got to hold Patrick while Christian stood in the circle. Amy wasn't so sure about that, but tolerated it. Although she cried when we sand "I am Child of God" because she thought that meant bed time. She kept saying "No song. Song off." She calmed when we got to the second verse and she realized she wasn't being put in her crib.
I'm not sure what I expected to feel, but I really thought I'd be bawling at some point. I didn't, thank goodness, but I was very happy, and I felt so peaceful. Even though Timothy was being a pill most of the time. He wouldn't sit still or stop playing with the kids behind him. But nothing could get me down. It was a wonderful day!
A friend took some pictures for us afterward. I was so grateful that she did. Thanks Cailean!!!
She caught the kids eating refreshments in the coat room
We finally got the whole crew together.
Amy wouldn't take the cookie out of her mouth
There has to be a silly one, right?
After things were cleaned up and put away we headed back to our house for dinner. It was a full house with Nathan, Amy and Evelyn, & Valerie, Christian, Patrick and Payden. We enjoyed their company to celebrate David's big day. Especially since Valerie and Christian are moving this week. We will really miss them!
Thank-you to all who helped us, and sent your good wishes our way. Congratulations David!
The day started with a few presents including a bookmark,
and his own set of scriptures with a carrying case. 
He also got a new white shirt - he desperately needed one. We were pleasantly surprised to see him reading his scriptures during Stake Conference in the morning. It could be because he forgot his bag of activities at home, and he was bored. But that's better than bugging his brother because he was bored. After stake conference we had a little down time before our wonderful home teachers came over. Then we got ready for dinner afterward, and printed off programs etc. Aaron and David went over to the church early to check on the font. (They found a black widow floating in the water.) They made sure the set up was ready. I left about 20 minutes later and picked up Amy and Evelyn on the way. Valerie, Christian and their boys were already there.
People started arriving. We got a table ready for refreshments. Then I took a few pictures of Aaron and David in front of the church.
We got in a few minutes late, and almost everyone was there. Nathan was missing. He was driving back from Canada. We started about 10 minutes late, hoping he would arrive soon. He missed the baptism, but slipped in while Aaron and David were getting dressed and we were singing hymns. So he was there to stand in the circle for the confirmation. And I got to hold Patrick while Christian stood in the circle. Amy wasn't so sure about that, but tolerated it. Although she cried when we sand "I am Child of God" because she thought that meant bed time. She kept saying "No song. Song off." She calmed when we got to the second verse and she realized she wasn't being put in her crib. I'm not sure what I expected to feel, but I really thought I'd be bawling at some point. I didn't, thank goodness, but I was very happy, and I felt so peaceful. Even though Timothy was being a pill most of the time. He wouldn't sit still or stop playing with the kids behind him. But nothing could get me down. It was a wonderful day!
A friend took some pictures for us afterward. I was so grateful that she did. Thanks Cailean!!!
She caught the kids eating refreshments in the coat roomWe finally got the whole crew together.
Amy wouldn't take the cookie out of her mouth
There has to be a silly one, right?
After things were cleaned up and put away we headed back to our house for dinner. It was a full house with Nathan, Amy and Evelyn, & Valerie, Christian, Patrick and Payden. We enjoyed their company to celebrate David's big day. Especially since Valerie and Christian are moving this week. We will really miss them!
Thank-you to all who helped us, and sent your good wishes our way. Congratulations David!
Saturday, May 1, 2010
I'm still here
I feel like I haven't posted in a while. I'm still alive, I have just been busy. David is getting baptized tomorrow, and I got to go out with some friends last night, and Amy doesn't let me use the computer when she's awake, so I am just very distracted right now. Hopefully Monday I've have time to post an update. And pictures. Aaron took some pictures today at the cub scout day camp outing. David is loving cub scouts! Well I have some cleaning to do before bed time. Better get to it!
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