The Haring House

Parenting Skills

2010-03-29T08:12:00.000-07:00

This weekend I landed a terrible cold. My throat was raw, my voice gone. My chest wheezes when I breathe. Lots of coughing, sneezing and snotting. I must have gone through a whole box of Kleenex. Since I'm pregnant, that means I can't drug myself up either. I just get to suffer through. Poor Everett has been stuck in the house with me for 2 days.

What's a sick mom to do to keep the kiddo entertained while I'm inches from death? I bust out my best parenting skills.I let Ev's electronic mother take over for a while so I could recover. This weekend, I was grateful for children's tv 24/7. I feel so guilty for having him watch tv all day, but I was so sick. Luckily, I'm feeling better now so we'll be playing outside today.

Aaah! It's Great to be Back!

2010-03-24T13:13:00.000-07:00

After a 5 month hiatus, I'm baaaaaack! Aaron hooked up the computer for me this weekend and I'm back in communication with the outside world.

Last weekend Aaron's parents rented a cabin in Lake Arrowhead so the whole fam damily headed to the mountains. The boys have never seen snow, so this was the golden opportunity. The cabin was super sweet. It was 3 stories and the rooms were gigantic. You could see the lake from the HUGE balcony - it was just perfect. The only drawback (if you could call it that) was the cabin owner's sense of decorating style, or lack there of. There was a major theme throughout the cabin - Ducks...hundreds of them. Every shelf, lamp, picture, you name it was plastered with ducks.

In our upstairs bathroom there were duck hooks to hang your towels on. Above the toilet there was this lovely trio of duck heads.I'm sure they were placed there as a warning to whoever didn't wash their hands after using the bathroom that their eyes would be plucked out. In the living room there was a disco ball ornament cleaverly hung to the wooden beam with a bandaid.Clearly this must have been from other cabin renters or it would have had a duck on it too.

There was just enough snow on the shady areas of the mountain to take 4 little boys sledding. We found a great spot at Dogwood campground and let the boys have at it. Everett wasn't sure what to think of the snow at first, but after a little while of getting used to walking in it, he loved stomping around.
Since I'm hugely pregnant, I didn't get to take Ev sledding. I was limited to standing on the sidelines taking photos. Aaron and aunt Katie took Ev on a few sled rides.
He was a bit petrified, but by the last go down the hill managed to eek out a smile. Later that afternoon, we headed to Lake Arrowhead village for some ice cream and chocolate- yum! The weather was perfect - sun was warm, but the air was cold so you still got to wear a jacket. That night it was in the mid 20's, so we lit a fire, played cards and let the boys run around and play. Ev was up to his usual sleeping habits when he's in a new place which means - he doesn't sleep at all. By night 2 I was so tired I just brought Ev in bed with us.

About 3am we woke up to an alarm going off in the cabin. It was the carbon monoxide detector. Apparently the wind outside was causing the smoke in the fireplace to get pushed back into the cabin instead of out the chimney. We were told to open the windows, evacuate the cabin and that the fire department and an ambulance were on the way. I woke Aaron up and told him the news. "No way, I'm not leaving. Just open the window, we'll be fine." Aaah, yes...nothing like trying to sleep with freezing mountain air blowing through your window at 3am and a baby that wakes up every 30 minutes.

The fire department checked out the cabin with a "yep, smells like smoke in here!" (Duh)and had us keep the windows open to get fresh air in the cabin. Katie got her picture taken with them before they left - seize the moment! (I'm SURE this is what they looked like)

The next day, we had a lazy morning, packed up and headed home. Aaron had the awesome idea of taking the back way home a-la dirt fire roads. Looking back, I should have known better. I'm still not sure how Ev's head didn't bobble off his neck and I didn't go into early labor. None the less, we made it. We took Ev to the park before we got home. The weather was perfect, how could we not?

If Ye Are Prepared, Ye Shall Not Fear

2009-11-05T11:41:00.000-08:00

For about the last year or so, I have been fascinated with the signs of the Second Coming of Christ. Things are happening so fast, it's hard to ignore the fact that it's right around the corner.

My mom and brother introduced me to the author Roger K. Young. I HIGHLY recommend reading these books. I read his book "As A Thief in the Night" and have started another book of his, "Dreams and Visions of the Last Days". I honestly have to say that these books will make you strap on your halo, and get to work preparing yourself faster than anything I have ever read. Some things are truly frightening. I'm the type of person that would rather know what is going to happen rather than be caught off guard (I've had enough of that this year...).

Get your food storage, stay out of debt the best you can (given our country's economic situation, it's not easy), and get your spirit tuned up starting TODAY. Do the best you can, prepare the best you can. The effort will be well worth it.

Halloween 2009

2009-11-02T10:40:00.000-08:00

Aaron: A giraffe? That would not have been my first choice.

Me: It wasn't mine either, but I had to go with process of elimination. The monkey costume was way too thick, he would have sweat to death. The lion costume had long mangy fur all round the face and hands, that costume wouldn't have stayed on for 2 minutes. The dragon costume had a big thick tail, so he couldn't sit down. Therefore, he will be a giraffe.

Halloween was great! In the morning, the cousins came over and we carved pumpkins.The boys got to play and have a great time. Later that afternoon we took all of the boys to the church Trunk or Treat. The church is just down the street so the boys got pulled in a big red wagon - which Ev loved.There was a huge turn out. Ev had a great time having free reign to cruise the parking lot and have mom and dad follow close behind. He scored 2 lollipops.
I refused to bring him around with a bag for candy. A one year old does not need candy and everyone knows it's for the greedy parents. That would NOT be me. He was such a good boy for having no afternoon nap.By the time we were finished with the Trunk or Treat festivities and were on our way home, Ev was slouched lower and lower in the wagon, almost asleep. There was pizza waiting for us at home. We ate some yummy food and headed out to the driveway where the firepit was blazing. Ev kept wanting to get into the fire, so I opted to have him playing in the house instead. By 8pm, we retired the giraffe costum and put our tuckered out baby boy to bed. Can we do this again next weekend?

The Lamest Pumpkin Patch Ever

2009-10-29T09:52:00.000-07:00

Last night, we took Ev to the pumpkin patch. The one we usually go to was not open this year, so we were forced to go with Plan B. We only knew of one other patch in the area, so we headed there.When we pulled up, we were greatly disappointed. It wasn’t lit very well, there weren’t very many pumpkins to choose from, my camera wasn’t working right and I had to use the flash on every photo, so they didn’t turn out that great.We were hoping to get just a little Ev sized pumpkin, but they only had medium or large ones.Ev was more interested in the cars whizzing by on the side of the road and staring at the other pumpkin patch parishioners. Everett was a little shy and nervous walking around by himself, so we had to coax him into exploring the patch. Ev likes nothing more than to have his dad hold him. This boy loves his dad!We picked out a pumpkin, let Ev give it the durability test shake and headed home before he turned into a popsicle! It was cold! Despite the setbacks, we had some great family time and picture proof that we did take Ev to the pumpkin patch, however lame it may have been.

Just Like Dad

2009-10-26T09:40:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Aaron and Ev were playing with trucks. After a little while of playing, Ev started to mimic Aaron's "truck sounds". All week I've been catching Ev making "truck sounds" as he pushes various cars and trucks across the floor. Aaron is quite proud that he learned this skill from him.

Saturday night we were sitting at the dinner table and had just finished our meal and Aaron let out a burp. (Classy, eh? Aaron's parent were out of town, so his mother was not there to give him the "stink eye".) Everett looked at him for a moment, made an "O" with his mouth and made an imitation burp noise.Aaron and I looked at each other and just started laughing. Aaron tried a few more times to get him to do it again. He did make the noise a time or two, but never the full imitation. I was instructed not to encourage this behavior unless he "did it right".
Well, excuuuuse me!

Aaron is learning that Ev is going to copy everything that he does. When I ask him to watch his words and actions, I'm not being a bossy wife - I'm trying to keep my kid on good behavior.
Oh, what will he learn next?

Guilty Party

2009-10-23T08:29:00.000-07:00

My Father in Law chiseled out the bottom of the yard trash bin. Matted, fermented grass and dog poo, ick. He put it in a garbage bag and put it where he thought the dogs couldn’t get it. The next morning, the garbage bag had been shredded and grassy poo stains were all over the concrete.

You get one guess as to who made this mess:
HoochOr MoeI dunno…jury is still out.

A Day at the Farm (aka: My Mom's House)

2009-10-20T09:58:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago, I didn’t have to go in to work. Instead, Ev and I hung out at my mom’s house. Ev refused to take a nap, so we all headed out to the garden.We fed the chickens, collected eggs, picked apples, basil and parsley.To our surprise, there were even a few raspberries – yum!While I was collecting basil leaves, Ev walked up and handed me a slimy, wet snail. Thanks, son.

He kept wanting to play with the hose. Even though it was only like 65 degrees, I gave in and let him play while we worked.He had a great time drinking the water and letting out a big “Aaaah!” when he was done.After about 10 minutes, his jaw started chattering so we knew he was ready to go in. I wrapped him in a towel and followed up with a warm bath from Grandma Carol.

While my mom and Ev took a nap, I made an apple crisp,a huge pot of home made applesauce,and dehydrated a batch of basil and parsley.The house smelled wonderful. It was a great day. All we need to do now is figure out what to do with the rest of the apples!Time to get busy dehydrating some more! I had been craving a creative outlet, and this satisfied the need. I am really missing my kitchen.

Coin Collector

2009-10-16T11:07:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago Aaron decided it was time to get into his “rainy day fund”. Given our crappy financial situation, I guess every day this whole year could have qualified for the “rainy day”, but Aaron was saving it for a splurge.

Last weekend, Aaron, his brother and their friend went on a backpacking trip in the Sierras to Cattle Creek. No people, no phones, no distractions, no stress. He thought this would be a worthy cause to bust open the bank.

For years Aaron has had the habit of saving his change and putting it in a glass water jug at the end of the day.The change will accumulate for years and when the jug looks full enough, he’ll find a worthy cause and put the money toward that (usually something fun!). Somehow, it seems I’m the one that gets stuck with the task of rolling all of the coins. Luckily this time we had an automatic change counter. In the years before, I got to do everything by using just my brain power and sorting skills.Ev went down for a nap and I got to work rolling. I got quite a pile going by the time Ev woke up. I decided it might be fun to have him help me put the coins in the counter.

This was a mistake.

He was more interested in throwing the coins, trying to eat them, and putting them in Aaron’s hiking boot.After the coins got boring, he went on systematically emptying out every drawer in our bedroom. By the time I got to a good stopping point, our room had been ransacked and I had to wait until he went to bed to put our room back together.

By the time Aaron got home from work, I had rolled enough for him to go on his trip. The guys had a great time backpacking. I have to admit, I was dying that I couldn’t go. We backpacked there years ago, and that has to be my all time favorite trip we ever took. I told him to take lots of photos for me, and I’ll just dream about hiking in the mountains. Sigh…

Nature Boys

2009-10-01T10:52:00.000-07:00

I love being married to an outdoors man. I love the rough and tumble boys that love to get dirty and could survive in the wild if they had to.Last weekend, Aaron and I took Ev to the mountains for the first time. Aaron's parents were camping at Dogwood campground and we went up to join them for dinner. Ev loved it! He was perfectly happy to be sitting in the dirt, throwing rocks and sticks.He did have a taste of a dirt clump and instantly started dry-heaving. Luckily, I got it out of his mouth before we had another "cake episode". If anything remotely strange touches that boys' mouth, he makes himself throw up, a gift from his fathers' side of the gene pool.We had a great dinner, went on a nice walk and headed down the mountain back home. It was hardly a night in the wild, but it's a good start.

Smooth Talker

2009-09-28T09:01:00.000-07:00

Yes, I've been neglecting my blog.

The truth is, I've been so dang tired the last few weeks. Anytime Ev is down for a nap, I pass out too which means computer time is almost zero. Things will get better soon and I'll be back to my usual blogging schedule.It's hard to explain to a husband just how tired and yucky you feel when you're pregnant. They just can't relate because they don't feel what you feel. I can take a solid 2 hour nap and still be exhausted and go to bed at 8pm when Everett does.

I feel bad for Aaron, because many nights he gets home so late. I'm either already in bed or so tired I can't see straight. Last week I forced myself to stay up when he got home. I was an exhausted mess and apologized for being so.

My sweet husband's answer to my apology? "Ah, that's OK, I understand why you're tired. You probably grew a butt today."

Huh? What did you say?

"You know, like one week you grew a heart for the baby, another week the hands. Maybe this week you grew a butt or something."

Thanks for being so understanding.

Birthday Hike

2009-09-08T10:40:00.000-07:00

I'm a bit behind. The photos were on Aaron's camera, the battery died, and I had to search for the charger, and work's been busy. So here's a little catch up:

August 21st was my 32nd birthday. Not only was it cool that it was my birthday, it's also cool because I found out it's President Monsons' birthday too. How cool are we?In the past, Aaron has taken me on some killer birthday adventures. My mom and sisters are always chomping at the bit to find out what Aaron's going to do for my birthday.

This year we're flat broke, so I knew what ever he had planned would be simple and no big deal. Boy, was I wrong! My Aaron came through for me again, making me feel so very special. Aaron had a long day at work and when he got home late that night, he brought with him a giant happy face balloon tied to a case of my favorite orange cream soda and a birthday card.On the table was a beautiful hydrangea plant with giant purple blooms. He told me he hadn't planned on getting the hydrangea for me, but when he saw it at the store, he thought of me, knew it was my favorite and that I would love it, so he bought it for me. So sweet!

The next day, Aaron got home from work early (1pm) and had his hands full with grocery bags. I asked what he was doing, he told me that we were going on a hike for my birthday. One of my most favorite things to do (besides eat and take a nap) is to go hiking. He had already arranged for his parents to watch Ev that night so we could go on an adventure! Woo hoo! Aaron had gone to the grocery store and bought all of my favorite snacks and drinks and packed a lunch for us to bring on the hike. We packed our gear and headed on the road.

As we rolled down the road Aaron turned on some tunes. To my amazement, he had made 2 CDs of music just for me of music that he thought I would like (he did great!). He put a grocery bag up front with us of travel snacks, so we munched on jerky and sunflower seeds as we headed up the 15 freeway.

Aaron handed me a book of California hiking trails and told me to turn to the section on Deep Creek. He had scoured the book and found an easy hike he thought I'd like. I started reading the description of the hike and location - it sounded great! I turned the page and continued reading "clothing optional, approximately 50% of swimmers choose to swim nude..." This DOES sound like an adventure! Aaron's jaw hit the floor. "I didn't read THAT part! If I had known that, I wouldn't have chosen this hike!" I calmed him down, "oh, come on, there's not going to be naked swimmers there."

We drove through the "lovely" city of Hesperia. I thanked Aaron profusely for NOT having us live there. On dirt roads and up the hills we went. The directions lead us to what was described as a 1920's cabin, which was actually more like a run-down shack in the dirt with hand painted signs everywhere. Out of the "cabin" came this dirty, sweaty Aussie who looked like he hadn't seen a bath in 2 weeks. He was really nice though, and gave us great instructions on the hike. Aaron filled out the needed car information and put the toll in the "box" which was a hole in the side of the cabin with a rock that had the word "box" pained on it. Hmmm...We parked and headed to the trail. Anyone who's ever been pregnant knows that the first thing on your mind is - where is the bathroom? Out here, that big rock, or that cluster of bushes IS the bathroom, so we smartly brought the toilet paper with us and I got to "bush it" along the way. I'm an outdoor girl, so it doesn't really bug me as long as I have someone to be a good look out.
During the first five minutes of the hike, you come across this warning:Nothing says adventure like a dangerous amoeba that will eat your brain. Nice!

The weather was perfect (80 degrees, with a cool breeze), and the hike was pretty easy – until the last drop into the canyon: Our mothers would have some words if they knew what their pregnant daughter was climbing over. Upon making it down the mountain alive, I saw a strange animal prancing through the bushes. It was all pink with a shaggy head of hair and boots. Yep, it was a naked person. “Aaron! Give me the camera!” He handed it to me and as I raised to shoot he realized what I was doing and snatched the camera away from me. “What? You don’t trust me?” His response was, “No way. You will NOT be taking pictures of naked people!” We spotted a couple more “pink animals”. The thing with swimmers that go nude, is that most of them should NOT go nude. The human body in its real form is not very pretty to look at.We headed down stream and found our own quiet spot where we could enjoy our lunch without the thought of naked people polluting the water. We ate our sandwiches and string cheese while we dangled our feet in the water.It was a perfect afternoon of just being alone. No work, no babies, no interruptions. It was nice to have a break. We didn’t get to stay too long since we got a late start and we headed back before it got dark.
Going back up that giant hill was not fun, but I did it – no complaining, plus I get pregnant lady points. That’s what I love about hiking. When you get to the top, you feel the sense of accomplishment. We went a bit slower on the way back. Mostly because I’m just a wee bit out of shape, but I loved every minute of our hike. We made it back to the truck just in time to see the sunset.On our way home we munched on the last turkey sandwich, root beer and Cheetos. The one thing I did miss right away about not having the diaper bag with me, was not having wipes readily available. I had Cheeto-fingers most of the way home.
Ev was asleep before we got home, so Aaron and I got to go in the spa and sip on orange soda floats – yum! My husband is just the best and knows me perfectly. What a great day.

So Did I Pass or Fail This Test?

2009-08-19T10:35:00.000-07:00

That was the question Aaron posed to me when we were trying to get pregnant the first time. Passing or failing this test all depends on your point of view.

When we had Everett we meticulously planned everything. But as John Lennon said, "Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans." Life happened and our beautiful plan went up in flames.

As for baby #2, there was no plan. We had heard the words time and time again, but it wasn't until after we had Everett that we really learned that as far as family goes, there's no perfect financial time to have a baby, and even if there was - it could all change in an instant. (Try going from 2 incomes to zero income plus a baby within 3 months - that was NOT in the plan!) We were (and still are) very concerned with the very thin line that separates living our lives through building our family and just being plain stupid. I guess which side of the line we're on all depends on your point of view.

We found out we were pregnant a week after we moved in with Aaron's parents. It took us a couple of days to snap out of the shock and "what the heck were we thinking?" phase. We adjusted our thinking, relaxed and moved over to the "woo hoo! We're having another baby!" phase.

No matter the financial circumstance, what I do know is that this baby will be loved and adored. I can't wait to kiss this baby's cute little face. I'm excited to see our family grow and I know there is plenty of love to go around.

We know "love" doesn't buy the diapers, but through hard work we'll figure out a new plan and find a way to make it work. With that as my point of view, I think I passed this test with flying colors.

It's Not A Party 'Til Somebody Pukes

2009-08-17T09:29:00.000-07:00

Sunday, we had Everett's birthday party. The entire family was there - it was great! We had pizza, salad, chip 'n' dips, fruit and three cakes. Everett spent the day being passed from family member to family member and was the center of attention, as it should be!

About 20 minutes into the party, Everett had an announcement to make: But it went unnoticed for about a half hour. When his shirt was finally noticed, there were cheers all around! Yup, Everett is going to be a big brother! Oh boy, here we go again! (More on that later...back to the party!) After we ate, we opened presents. Ev was interested for about the first 30 seconds, and then was ready to do something else. It's the same way with every one-year-old, which is why I requested no gifts - but that request was ignored by his generous family. Next came Ev's big moment to eat some cake. Most moms envision this moment where the kid smears gobs of icing and cake all over their face and there is a flurry of photo taking to capture the moment. Not so much with my kid. He touched the icing on the cake and was immediately irritated that it stuck to his fingers.We tried to get him to taste the icing to no avail. Finally, I took the tinest pinch of cake and put it in his mouth. He immediately gaged once, and on the second gag completely hurled his squash and applesauce all over the highchair and his shirt. Lovely. So, that magic moment was gone for me. Maybe next year...After we got him changed into his 3rd outfit of the day, we gave hugs and said goodbye as our guests headed home. Aaron, Everett and the cousins went in the spa while I cleaned up. By the end of the night, I was exhausted. It was worth the effort, though. What a great day.

My sister-in-law was even sweet enough to hide a piece of chocolate cake for me, which I will happily eat tonight - very slowly - all by myself.

Happy Birthday, Baby!

2009-08-14T08:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Everett's 1st birthday. When he woke up in the morning, the first thing I did was cuddle him and sing "Happy Birthday" to him.

Having my little one reach this huge mile marker had me thinking all kinds of weird thoughts yesterday. Later that morning when I was giving him his bath, the thought popped up, "Next year, you won't be able to bathe him in the sink." My heart sank. I'd have to put him in the tub, maybe I could just buy a bigger sink?When I was giving him a bottle and rocking him for his nap, the thought popped up, "I wonder how many more times I'll get to rock him to sleep." My mind didn't stop there. How many more times will I get to cuddle my little one in the middle of the night? How many more times will he jump up and down in his crib in the morning because he's excited to see me? How many more times will I get to smell his soft fuzzy hair after his bath? The thoughts kept coming all day long. I love this kid more than anything, and I just don't want to miss anything or take for granted the short time I have with him while he's a baby. Aaron's Grandma always said, the first steps your baby takes are the first steps toward walking away from you. Oh little one, I'm sorry to be so mushy and weepy. I can't help it. Just give me a day or two to snap out of it. Sunday the whole family is coming over. Then, we shall party.

Sweat Shop

2009-08-10T08:40:00.001-07:00

This weekend, Ev and I helped Aaron at the Label shop. Aaron and I put together some portfolio folders so he could pound the pavement this week in search of some new clients. Aaron said having us there was kind of like running a sweat shop with women and children. While we were affixing labels, Everett had a run of the shop in his walker. There was plenty of dirt, ink and equipment to get into. He managed to quickly find all of these things on his own. He loved to pull the empty label paper out of the trash and it would quickly get tangled.As soon as he found them, the label cores were all over the floor.We still don't know exactly what he got into, but he managed to give himself a Hitler mustache. Aaron's first thought was to wash it off, my first thought was to grab the camera. Almost instantly, his feet were filthy from the shop floor. Aaron suggested we start calling him Pig Pen.
Although Everett came close to single handedly destroying the label shop, Aaron said he was so happy that he got to spend the day with his boy and his wife.It's not very often we get to spend the whole day together. It was well worth the inconvenience of packing all the baby gear and having my son covered in dirt in order to spend the day with Aaron. Ev and I just love being around him!

Taking Myself Off of "Pause"

2009-08-04T09:58:00.000-07:00

For the last year I have been on "pause".

Since the baby, I have been on survival mode and my looks have gone to hell in a hand basket. I am the first to admit this, I am fully aware of how awful I look. A couple of months ago, I had a complete meltdown (connected to "that time of the month", no doubt) and I have been getting myself back on track. It didn't help that my mom called me two weeks ago concerned about how crummy I looked and was coming up with ways she could help "fix me". Oh boy, this is bad.

I started eating better and lost 10 pounds. I still have a LONG way to go, but hey, it's a start. I have been on a hiatus since we've been moving, but I haven't gained any weight back and I'm anxious to get back to eating better.

I scrubbed the inch-thick calluses on my heels and painted my toe nails a bright pretty pink. I'm starting to feel more and more like a girl again.

Today is another big step in the right direction. Shortly after Ev was born, my contacts wore out and I was trying to save money and decided to just wear my glasses instead of paying for and eye exam and more contacts. Although saving the money sounds great in theory, my self esteem took a huge hit in the process. I hate how I look in glasses. My ears are lopsided so my glasses sit crooked on my face.I can't tell you how many times Everett has ripped them off of my face. They get smudged and block my clear view, they steam up when I'm doing the dishes, and do you have any idea how hard it is to put on makeup when you can't see your face? So this afternoon I have an eye appointment to get new contacts and I'm ditching these glasses. I'm so excited!My next project to get myself back on track: My pathetic hair.

Can You Believe It?

2009-07-30T10:21:00.000-07:00

Can you believe these cute little wrinkly feet feet took their first steps on Monday? I was finishing up the dinner dishes so Aaron was on baby duty. Aaron and Papa Rob were playing with Everett. When I was done, they had a surprise to show me. Aaron held him upright on the floor and he walked two steps to me. We did it one more time and cheered with joy after I caught him. On Tuesday night Papa Rob and I got him to take four steps in a row. It's just a matter of time before this little monkey will be running around the house. It's getting harder to keep him contained!

Bare Minimum

2009-07-27T08:58:00.000-07:00

Since we've had to squeeze an entire household into 2 bedrooms, we need to be living on the bare minimum to make it work. This is NOT living on the bare minimum:Clearly, I needed to have a lesson on living simply. In going through the boxes and trying to condense them so we could at least carve a path to the bed I found 2 boxes of dog toys and treats, an XBOX with 8 games, and about 10,000 plastic hangers. How did these things make it to our room, and who thought we needed them to survive? I boxed all non-essentials and packed away our winter clothes. Aaron's got another load to take to storage and after that, we'll be sitting pretty. I'm glad that we are moved, but I'm still working on the "getting settled" part.

Empty

2009-07-23T08:24:00.000-07:00

The rooms are empty.
The PODS container is gone.Goodbye, beautiful little house. We hope to see you in a year.

I'm Not Dying

2009-07-17T08:26:00.000-07:00

I can remember as far back as 12 years ago feeling my heart flutter. If you feel my pulse when I get one of these flutters, it actually pauses for a moment. It's been a bit more noticeable in the last few weeks so I decided to finally get it checked out. Better late than never.

Apparently, I was born with a group of cells in my heart that throws in a premature heartbeat when my body is at rest. It's nothing that will affect me and it's not a sign of any problem. I'm just a genetic freak of nature, much like my dog.

My doctor wanted me to get a Holter Monitor for a few days so she could find out how many of these things I'm having. Upon entering in the cardiology exam room, I couldn't help but notice the strong smell of cigarette smoke radiating from the nurse. What a wonderful choice to have her helping patients with heart problems. It's like the equivalent of having my chubby butt working as a dietitian. Anyhoo...Smokey got me hooked up and informed me that I have to wear the monitor for 30 days. Oh great.
Every time I feel a flutter, I have to push a button and the monitor plays a melody after 40 seconds to let me know it's done recording. If one of the electrodes gets disconnected, it plays another melody. I'm wondering how I'm supposed to sit through church when it sounds like I'm playing Donkey Kong under my shirt.On top of that, one of the electrodes has to go right on my chest for the world to see. It's been almost 100 degrees for the past week so it's not like I can cover it with a sweater. I look like I'm seriously ill and should be dragging an oxygen tank behind me. I hope people don't think I'm going to keel over any minute. Maybe I'll get some sympathy points?

I don't know how accurate this monitor will be. Since my heart flutters when I'm at rest, many times it happens when I'm trying to fall asleep or when I'm trying to get Everett to sleep. There's no way I'm going to push that button and wake him up. What I can count accurately is the 274 times Everett has tried to rip the electrode off of my chest in the last 4 days.

Ugh. 26 Days to go. Until then, I'll just pretend it's the latest, coolest new ipod that's so advanced you don't even have to put the earphones in your ears. How cool am I now?

Santa Barbara 2009

2009-07-13T09:10:00.000-07:00

Aaron's parents treated the whole fam damily to a little vacation in Santa Barbara. We hadn't been on a vacation in 2 years, and with all that is going on - we really needed the break.

We stayed at the West Beach Inn, right across the street from the beach.Our room was huge! 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a kitchen, fireplace and a giant living room. When you fill the room with 8 adults and 4 children, we needed the space. We got to sleep on one of the beds, something we haven't done in about 2 months - HEAVEN! (At home, we're still on a futon mattress on the floor)

Friday night we rolled into town. We went for a walk down the street and stopped for pizza. Since Ev's schedule was all messed up, he didn't go to bed until 11pm and proceeded to wake us up about every 30 minutes for the rest of the night. I gave up trying to sleep at 6am. Aaron was in a foul mood. Not a good start to a vacation.

Saturday morning we took a walk through the homeless people and onto the pier. I took a photo of this guy doing a sand sculpture.He then informed me that he would like a cash donation for doing so. Had I known that, I would have kept walking. Thankfully, my brother in law threw some quarters at him. The pier was packed with Porches.After a night with no sleep, Aaron decided to take Everett for a really close look at the edge.
Next, we headed over to the French Festival. My sister in law's side of the family is of French descent and so she really wanted to check it out. I didn't take very many photos of family while we were there, the characters there were far more interesting. Upon walking into the park, we were greeted with a huge disappointment.The much anticipated wading pool was drained due to budget cuts. Perhaps they could have made a note of that on the "fun for kids" section on the website. It was SO hot, I was looking forward to letting Ev get in the water. Upon further inspecting the strange people in the crowd and large number of homeless people in the area, I decided that having the wading pool drained was a good idea. No telling what could have been floating in it.

Santa Barbara seemed to be the land of Obama supporters (um, the election was months ago, you can take the sign down now),
free love no matter which gender you choose,and really bad fashion choices. The French Festival was brimming with all of the above, there was much to see:
A replica of the Eiffel Tower

A poodle in a diaper

A 40-something lady dressed up as a fairy

A guillotine replica

The Eiffel Tower made of wine corks

You could get your photo taken with Napoleon

Gay Pride and France go hand in hand

As for things that were not so French: There was a Mona Lisa painting with a hole cut out for the face so you could stick your face in in it and take a photo with "you" as the Mona Lisa - Except Leonardo da Vinci was Italian. They served French beer in Bud Light cups. All of the Can Can dancers were under age. I've never been to France, but I am willing to bet money that they don't dress like this:
Yep, that girl drew on a mustache. And as we were leaving, we passed by about four Mexican ice cream carts. What could be more French?
We were all hot, sweaty and tired so we headed back to the hotel and went swimming. Our family had the pool to ourselves, it was perfect! Later, we went to an Italian restaurant on State Street. It was so yummy!I had a ton more pictures of interesting people on State St., but Aaron erased a bunch of photos not knowing the intent or reason for me taking them. Included in the deleted photos was another homeless guy sitting outside an ultra posh boutique, a common site here. An insanely talented young guy playing the drums for money. Now this was something worth paying for. Later, the police made him pack it up and leave. However, the extremely loud party barge touring up the street full of drunk guys doing a beer bong and asking ladies on the street to show them their "stuff" was perfectly legal. On our way back to the car we passed a brass fire hydrant.To me it was just another reminder of the two extremes in this area. Perhaps if they had a regular fire hydrant they could have kept the wading pool open? Ev even had his own parking spaces.
Sunday morning we went to breakfast on the pier and then took the boys down to the beach. Ev of course loved the water. He wasn't so sure about the sand and seaweed, but after several attempts to eat both, I figured he was OK with them.
We packed up and headed home. Ev slept the whole way. It was so nice to get away for a while, but it's always good to be home.

First Week of July

2009-07-06T09:02:00.000-07:00

I am loving my new work schedule. I'm feeling more like a mom again since I'm able to spend so much more time with my boy.

Since it's been so rippin' hot, I've been dying to take Ev swimming. With a body as "streamlined" as mine, I had to wait until there was no one at my mom's house that would be offended by my pasty white, gargantuan rear end stuffed inside the only bathing suit I have that fits (my maternity suit, which is actually more like a dress). Once the coast was clear, I took Ev swimming. He loved it so much, I took him again two days later. This boy loves the water whether it's the bath, hose, spray bottle or pool.
Everett has learned how to open cupboards and drawers, making watching him a bit more of a challenge. I'm holding off on putting kid locks on everything since we're going to be out of our house in just a couple of weeks. I've resorted to tying cupboards shut with shoelaces, robe belts, and old draw strings.

We've got the lamest master bathtub on the planet. I've only used it twice. It's so shallow, the water barely reaches my belly button. In order to get up to my shoulders soaking in the tub, I have to scoot down so far that my feet are resting on the wall. Hardly worth the effort. I wish the builder would have just left the tub out and made a bigger shower. I only use it to bathe the dog and the baby...until recently.

Since our pack 'n' play is at Aaron's grandparent's house for when they watch him, I needed another way to keep him contained while I do my hair and make up or cleaning our room. Aaron suggested I put him in the tub. Brilliant! I threw some toys in there (a rally monkey, curler and a body wash sponge - what could be more fun?) I threw some clothes to hide the water knobs, and our new pack 'n' play worked like a charm.

Everett has moved on to DVD #2 in the Your Baby Can Read series. One of the words he is learning is "head". It is clear he has learned this word, but for some reason he has decided that he needs to show us where his head is between every bite of food he takes. Many times the action includes his hands smushing his cheeks and forehead, therefore distorting his entire face. It really is very entertaining.

4th of July was a bit of a disappointment. I had this grand vision of us spending the day together as a family, but what it ended up being was, guys outside having a good time, women inside taking care of the children. By the time it was dark enough for fireworks, it was 9pm. Ev was tired. He lasted a little while through the fireworks, but I had to take him back inside after about 15 minutes. He would get mad at me for holding his ears during the screaming fireworks, and he would jump every time there was a loud pop. So once again, it was guys outside lighting fireworks, women inside taking care of the children. *sigh* Hopefully it will be better next year.

The next day, my sister Kelle came to visit. She took Ev for a walk around the neighborhood so I could do my hair and makeup. They went to the park and she brought him back soaked from playing in the water feature at the park. I would have LOVED to have taken pictures of that! Kelle adores him, and he loves her back.

Later that day, we went to my mom's because we were celebrating Kelle's birthday. Kelle wanted to take Everett swimming, so I got him ready to go with his swim pants and slathered him in sunblock - which he immediately rubbed in his eyes. He didn't last in the pool more than 2 minutes. He was screaming and kept rubbing more sunblock in his eyes. I had to throw him in the bathtub and wash it all off. It took a bottle, blankie and a snuggle from Grandma in a rocking chair to calm him down. Poor baby. Does anyone make baby sunblock that doesn't make them want to gouge out their eyes? Sheesh.

Another Notch On My "I'm A Geek" Belt

2009-06-29T08:22:00.000-07:00

If you haven't already subscribed to receive newsletters from
this site, you're missing out! She seriously puts together the best articles and quotes, shares great ideas, and has a wealth of information to share.

Recently, that information included everything you need to know about dehydrating. It's not some boring article, it's a series of
short videos a lady put on youtube showing you just what to do and how easy it is. Can you believe her fabulous jar wall?? It's beautiful AND it will feed you too!

This lady is AMAZING! She's got a bit of a different philosophy for having a food storage. In one of her videos, she lists a bunch of different people she listens to. I was curious of the one she said she believed "right from her heart", so I looked it up. OK, so she believes that the reason for Earth's unrest is because aliens have infiltrated the human race and are causing turmoil. The aliens are waiting for humankind to destroy itself so they can come in and take all of the resources from our planet. Hmmm. Interesting.

But then again, I believe that God and Jesus came and talked to a 14 year old kid, who later went on to translate the Book of Mormon from gold plates despite having very little education. Touche. The point is, even though people believe very differently, you can still learn a lot from each other.My mom got me a dehydrator a few months ago. I had been wanting to use it, but had no idea how to get started. The dehydrator I got came with this weird jerky-making mechanism I have no interest in using. Jerky out of a syringe? It just doesn't seem natural, and an insult to beef. When I got the newsletter with the videos and all of the information I needed, I totally got the dehydrating itch. I LOVE it!
Aaron is a bit weary of me stockpiling #10 cans of food everywhere, so I needed a new way of adding to our food storage without him knowing I was adding to our food storage.

Aaron: What are you dehydrating?
Me: Corn.
Aaron: What for?
Me: To put in soups 'n' stuff.
Aaron: Let me get this straight, you're taking all the moisture out of food so you can turn around and put it back in?
Me: Yup.

He thinks I'm weird sometimes. Someday, he will thank me.

So here's my little collection of what I've dehydrated this week:Corn, peas, carrots, and bananas. I find myself looking in the fridge and freezer to see what else I can dehydrate. I'm on a roll.

Bittersweet

2009-06-25T08:14:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, Aaron put out a bunch of For Rent signs up around town. Within a half hour, we had someone walking through our house. I was ill prepared for such results and about had a heart attack. Dishes in the sink, laundry piles, and I hadn't cleaned the bathrooms. I guess the rest of our house looked good enough, because she left us a deposit and is due to move in August 1st. Woo hoo! Having a renter for the house is such a relief. We'd be able to keep the house and keep our credit intact.

I should have known better than to relax. This year, nothing has been easy. Just when I get the puzzle pieces to come together, a new piece is thrown in and I'm forced to take everything apart and start over.

Yesterday, my boss informed me that business just isn't getting better and that my hours (and paycheck) will be cut in half. For someone who desperately needs the money, it's not what you want to hear. I'll still be making more than at any lame minimum wage job, so I'm going to keep working part time.

On the VERY up side...Guess who I get to spend an extra 4 hours with a day? My favorite little kidlet in the whole wide world. He makes my day better.

We Should Have Named Him Houdini

2009-06-22T08:35:00.000-07:00

From birth, you couldn't keep this kids' arms in a swaddle. That left arm always broke free no matter how good a job I did. Now it seems that his pajamas are confining him. Perhaps he has inherited a bit of his mama's claustrophobia. What ever the reason, this boy will not conform and cannot be held down in any way. I'm sure this is just the beginning of plenty of pajama mishaps.

Online Shopping FAIL

2009-06-12T09:35:00.000-07:00

I stumbled on the site, www.failblog.org. In my opinion, I think it is the funniest site I have ever seen. My mom on the other hand didn't get it. It's about life's attempts that go horribly wrong, or just don't quite meet the mark.

Which brings me to my story.

If I receive a gift card, I rarely use it right away. I usually save them for a rainy day when I'm broke and need some retail therapy without spending money. Besides, shopping isn't as much fun as it used to be. I don't get to go shopping by myself anymore. Actually, physically GOING to the store to shop is almost more trouble than it's worth. This week I had a little extra "quiet time" while Ev was sleeping, so I got out some old gift cards that still had balances to do a little online shopping. First up was my Ritz Camera gift certificate for $50. Aaron got this for me a couple of years ago, but I forgot I had it. All of the stores are now closed, but online was open! I scoured through pages and pages of options and painfully narrowed my selection down to the amount of the card. I joyfully plugged in the gift card account number...it showed a balance of:What? How could that be? I called to check and found myself on hold for an insane amount of time. I suppose there must be a crazy amount of people trying to get a hold of Ritz Camera at 9pm. I decided to try their online "Live Chat" and was connected with someone named Thomas Miller.
Thomas Miller: Welcome to Ritz Camera online! How can I help you?
Caroline: I got this $50 gift card from a Ritz Camera Store that's showing a zero balance, it was never used. How could that be?
Thomas Miller: Ritz Camera stores and Ritz Camera online are two different stores. We have nothing to do with each other.
Caroline: So, even though the back of the card says visit us at Ritz Camera online, the card is useless?
Thomas Miller: That is correct.
??? I still don't get it.
Utter shopping FAILURE. I had spent upwards of 45 minutes making my retail therapy selection only to have it ripped away. I didn't let that get me down too much though, I still had two more gift cards. Next up was a Jo-Ann gift card. A little smarter this time, I checked the balance FIRST. I knew I had used a bit of the card, but when I went to check the balance, this is what I had left:That didn't even cover the cost of shipping - FAIL! My last ray of hope a Kohl's certificate. The golden balance on this card?Well, if you subtract the cost of shipping, I suppose I could buy a really super cool pair of socks. So anti-climactic. I think I need to find a new therapeutic outlet.

The Wave

2009-06-10T13:06:00.000-07:00

This morning Everett had his check up at the doctor office. Aaron was able arrange his work schedule and was able to go with me. Everett had gained a whopping 4 lbs. 10 oz. since his last appointment just over 2 months ago. He's now at 19 lbs. 14 oz. After the doctor finished her exam, she turned to leave and waved "goodbye" to Everett. To our surprise, Everett waved back!

My mom has been working with him for the last couple of months with the "Your Baby Can Read" program. It has a series of different words such as arms up, nose, tiger, clap, eyes, elephant, reach, gorilla, toes, etc. Ev loves watching the videos, and every once in a while he would make the clapping or reach motion - but it has to be HIS idea. If you try to coax it out if him, forget it. A bit like dad, eh??

Just a few minutes ago I got a call from my mom. She had taken Everett over to Aarons' grandparents for the afternoon, and when she left she waved "goodbye" and sure enough, Everett waved back! It's pretty cool to see your kid learning and understanding. Once again, I lucked out and I was there to catch the first "wave". He's progressing so quickly, It's still hard for me to believe in just a couple of months he'll already be one. I wish I could freeze time, at least just for a little while.

I Won't Tell Your Dad

2009-06-01T11:00:00.000-07:00

This last week Ev has really taken off in the crawling and pulling himself up on everything department. He figured out how to climb up stairs, and is ALMOST faster than me at getting into what he shouldn't before I can grab it away or pull him off of where he shouldn't be.

From almost the beginning Ev has been fascinated with remote controls, and telephones. This last week Everett discovered Aaron's electronics. Most good moms would pull their kid away and direct their attention elsewhere. Not me. He wasn't squirting water into the TV (Krista!) or stuffing toys in the speakers (Colleen, didn't Tyler do that?) so, I just let him explore, climb and throw the remotes around. That kept him busy for a solid 10 minutes two days in a row. So you go ahead and check out that TV, the remotes and your dad's XBOX. If it gives me 10 minutes of peace, it was well worth the risk.

Where Have I Heard This Story Before?

2009-05-29T11:21:00.000-07:00

I saw this article on Drudge Report yesterday.
I couldn't believe it. Are you kidding me?

http://www.infowars.com/san-diego-county-threatens-to-fine-couple-for-holding-bible-study-meetings/

I instantly thought of the story of Alma and his people being forbidden to worship out loud:

Mosiah 24: 10-12
10 And it came to pass that so great were their afflictions that they began to cry mightily to God.
11 And Amulon commanded them that they should stop their cries; and he put guards over them to watch them, that whosoever should be found calling upon God should be put to death.
12 And Alma and his people did not raise their voices to the Lord their God, but did pour out their hearts to him; and he did know the thoughts of their hearts.

I remember reading this story thinking that this sort of thing only happened in backward, fear-mongering societies. The people back then must not have been very smart. This kind of thing would NEVER happen HERE.

I stand corrected. History is repeating itself. It's like the scriptures coming to life. I am understanding now how peaceful, God-loving, free societies in the scriptures turn into self-serving, Godless societies where the people are in bondage. That couple in San Diego doesn't sound "free" to me.

The story goes on to say that the Lord was with the people of Alma. He did not take their burden away, but made them stronger so they were able to bare the burden. Time to toughen up. I'd like my country back.

In Hiding - A Week in Review

2009-05-26T10:54:00.000-07:00

I feel like I haven't left my house in a week - but wait, I haven't!

My boss called me in and asked how my packing was going and how much longer it was going to take me. I was honest, and at the rate I was going (working full time, with a baby and no husband around to help) it would have taken me another month-solid. With that, he told me to go home for the week and get to work. With Ev being watched during working hours I could actually make some major progress. I got home as fast as I could, cranked up the music and went into hyper-active speed.

The rooms are near complete with just a few odds and ends left. It's such a relief to know that this project is almost over. In some strange way, I think I really needed this moving experience to show me what I was doing to myself. The main thought running through my head was, "Why do I have all of this stuff??" Projects I intended to do, band posters from when I was 17, invoices from years ago, things I took home from others just to be nice. It got to the point where I was pitching stuff left and right. It was all good, useful and mostly brand-new stuff, but I didn't NEED it. I've already had the donation truck come for a pick up THREE times, and I've got another pile started. It's kind of liberating.I found some more skinny clothes I didn't have the heart to get rid of. It's my weakness. I see it as my "hope-in-a-box". If I ever get off my butt and lose weight, I'll be the best dressed girl in Southern California.This weekend was nice having Aaron home. We took Saturday afternoon to spend a few hours together as a family. We walked to the park, had sodas and snacks, thew the ball to Moe and headed home. It was a PERFECT afternoon with my boys.

I made dinner while Aaron and Ev watched Kung Fu Panda. While we ate dinner I put a giant heap of rice on Ev's tray and let him have at it. He was a mess, but it was all worth it to be able to eat dinner in peace.

Aaron was in charge of clearing out the garage. It's all of his tools and fishing stuff. Without me even saying anything about my experience, he came to the same conclusion and started pitching stuff left and right. He called a couple of his fishing buddies to come pick out what they wanted from AARON'S BAIT AND TACKLE SHOP a/k/a our garage. For some reason, Aaron thought he could get through the garage in one day. He quickly realized his error and I rescheduled the PODS pick up for next week.

As for other Everett bits and pieces, immediately after he got his first tooth, a second and third tooth popped up right next to it, all in a row. He's getting better at crawling on his knees instead of doing the army crawl. And why is it that no matter how many cool toys I put out for him, he is magnetically drawn to the nasty dog bed? He was introduced to the Tupperware cabinet,learned how to stand up in his crib and pout at the same time, decided that hurling himself head first off the ottoman or couch is a fun idea,
and had a blast playing with Uncle Ben's mullet wig. It's amazing how much you can "pack" into just one week.

I Know You're Cooler Than Me, But Could Ya Help a Little, Please?

2009-05-15T11:47:00.000-07:00

Last week I had to get my car smog checked. It gave me the opportunity to leave work early and spend extra time with my boy. I knew Everett would need to be entertained when we got there, so I went through the Del Taco drive through and got some tortillas and a cup of water. We pulled up to the smog check station in Chino, pictured below. Any mom knows to go anywhere, you have to be ready for anything. That requires the amount of baggage equivalent to going on a trip to China.

There was only one other car getting checked, and 3 mechanics. One mechanic took my information, handed me my invoice and instructed me to pay inside the office. I got out of the car, got my purse, diaper bag, camera bag, Del Taco bag, cup of water and baby packed up and waddled over to the office door. The 20something mechanic just watched me. No offer to help, didn't even make an attempt to open the office door. Thanks dude.

I got to the door and to my horror, it said "Pull". Oh sure, with what hand? With my elbow I got the door to crack open just enough to wedge my foot inside the door and kick it open. Upon entering the office I was met with the stares from three 20something girls just sitting there, watching me. Perhaps they had never seen a creature like me before, after all, they seemed to be from Paris Hilton Land complete with bug-eye sunglasses, skinny jeans and over-processed hair.
I handed the lady behind the counter my invoice and headed outside for a little picnic on the grass with my baby. A few minutes later the Hilton Trio's car was done. I watched the girls as they got in the car, checked their makeup, and made sure their hair was perfect.

I wondered to myself, "Was I ever like that?" Was there ever a time when I sat by and stared at someone else struggling when all I had to do was something as simple as open the door for them? I guess I just notice things like that more since I have a baby now and nothing is as easy as it once was. That will be something I will drill into Everett's head. "Get off your butt and help."

What Mother's Day Breakfast?

2009-05-12T14:17:00.000-07:00

My first Mother’s Day was not anything that I thought it would be. Due to a series of unfortunate events, things did not go according to plan. On Mother’s Day, we are supposed to be taken away from our daily duties for a little bit, and take a little time to relax. In the end, I was completely exhausted, haggard-looking and my house is a complete disaster. I looked like, well, a mom.

Saturday Aaron spent the day at home. It was so nice to have him home. He had the idea of going to visit his parents who were camping at Lake Skinner. (They camp a lot and on occasion we will visit, have dinner and sit by the campfire, and head home late at night.) We had a great time visiting with Aaron’s parents. At 11pm we headed for home only to find that we were locked inside the campground. The ranger warned that the gates get locked at 10pm, but Aaron didn’t take the warning seriously. He said that campsites never really lock the gates in case there is a medical emergency, or natural disaster you have to be able to get out. FYI – don’t have a late night disaster at Lake Skinner. You’re stuck. Aaron inspected the gate, the lock, and the surrounding fences and came to the conclusion that there was no way around the gate. He instructed me to switch seats with him- it was “his turn to drive”. As I was buckling in the passenger seat, Aaron hits the gas and goes barreling toward the gate full speed. I about crapped my pants. I put my hands and knees up to brace for impact only to have Aaron stop the car and start laughing uncontrollably. Turd.

We headed back to his parents for a night of forced camping. Oh, did I mention we had the dog with us? Nice. Visions of all that I was NOT getting done at home bounced through my head. Aaron told me that he had a fabulous Mother’s Day breakfast planned to make for me. He had bought all of the groceries and proceeded to tell me about all of the yummy things I would NOT be having for breakfast the next day. Oh well.

I thank God that Aaron’s parents’ camp in a trailer with a kitchen, bathroom and sleeping areas. I was also thankful for my over-packing skills. I had enough formula, diapers and baby food to last until the morning. Aaron’s mom made up a nice bed for us. Ev and I slept on the bed and Aaron and Moe slept on the floor. Aaron and I tossed and turned all night. By 7:45 am we were on the road back home.

We finally made it home by about 9 am, exhausted. While I fed Everett, Aaron fell asleep on the couch. My only thought was, “Well…there goes my help.” I had 45 minutes to get myself showered and ready, Ev bathed and ready and the food thrown together and out the door. I left without Aaron, who was still waking from his slumber and couldn’t figure out why I was so frazzled.(I couldn't imagine WHY??)

I spent Mother’s Day at my Grandmas and then at my Mom’s without my husband. He fell back asleep after I left, and then mowed the lawn. I got back from my mom’s just in time to throw together a pan of enchiladas and head out the door to his sister’s house for a family party. Aaron could tell I was in a fowl mood. He tread lightly around me and was extra nice. He also apologized for not being awake to help me. Progress...

We finally made it to bed around 10 pm. The whole day Monday I was still a zombie and was just a mess. Maybe it was just the major disappointment. After I got home from work things started to look up. I got the dishes done and the kitchen looking somewhat presentable. I got the laundry going and all of the toys picked up. Aaron came home early (8pm) and made me my Mother’s Day breakfast for dinner. I got my waffles with fresh berry syrup topped with whipped cream and powdered sugar. I got Canadian bacon and orange juice and a giant mug of peppermint hot chocolate. Pure heaven. I was happy again, Aaron was my knight in shining armor again and Everett went to sleep in nothing flat. Nice. This is more like it!

Teeth, Dog Dishes & Crawling

2009-05-07T09:39:00.000-07:00

For the last couple days, Everett hasn't been his usual sweet self. Oh sure, during the day he's a perfect angel for all of the Grandma's, but as soon as we get home he turns into "Mr. Crankypants". There's nothing I could do that would make him happy. Yesterday, magically, he was back to being the sweet little boy I knew - thank goodness. He was slobbering all over my finger while making baby noises - and there it was...I felt a tooth! Yup, there it was his front bottom tooth had broken through the gums. Well no wonder you've been so cranky. Sorry for not noticing you were in pain. Here we go! Teething officially begins!

Other fun stuff:
Monday I left Everett in the family room to play with his toys while I switched the laundry. While collecting a new batch of clothes, I hear CLINK! CLINK! coming from the other room. Oh no. Everett found Moe's water dish!

I hustled into the family room and sure enough, Everett had made it over to Moe's dog bed and water dish. He knocked over the dish sending water all over the kitchen floor with him in the middle of it. He was completely soaked and had this "Get me outta here!" look on his face. I think it's safe to say that Everett is officially crawling. It may not be as graceful as some other babies, but he can sure make his way across the room in a hurry if he wants.

He is also starting to understand and do the motions for clapping and arms up. It's amazing how quick this little boy is learning.

I am quite pleased with his timing on the last few measurements of progress since I started back to work. He has been nice enough to display his new tricks after 4pm. I was the first one to see him pull himself up on something - on his knees and standing. Aaron and I were the first to see him get up on his knees to start crawling. I was the first one to notice a tooth. I can't tell you how happy that makes me to not have to hear about those things second hand.

This is Temporary

2009-05-05T08:32:00.000-07:00

That’s what I keep telling myself.

Saturday we had an amazing crew of Aaron’s friends and family over to help move the BIG furniture. To our amazement, they didn’t stop there. Not only did they get all of the big furniture moved, they packed all of the boxes into the PODS container with Tetris Master precision. I hope I didn’t accidentally pack anything I needed – this packing job is permanent! Aaron and I were so grateful for the much needed help.

Included with the BIG furniture was our bed. We have a futon in our extra bedroom and were planning on sleeping on that for the next year despite the fact that it slopes to the middle. We’d have to take the futon apart to get it out of the room so we opted to just take the mattress off and put it on the floor. Here is my shameless attempt to make our bedroom still look like a bedroom. I think the lamps and alarm clock on the floor add just the right touch, don’t you think?

After a long day of packing and moving, Aaron and I were beat. Sleeping on a mattress on the floor is much like having a slumber party as a kid. Had we not packed the couch cushions and large blankets I may have made a fort. I turned out the light and no sooner had our heads hit the pillow; Moe launched himself over the mattress and landed right in between us. Problem: we’re now at Moe level. Aaron thought it was cool to have the dog sleep with us, I thought it was gross especially since he wanted to rest his wet nose on my pillow. Aaron begged, I caved. I turned my body away from the smelly boys and went to sleep chanting, “This is temporary, this is temporary, this is temporary…”.

Who Wants Free Stuff????

2009-04-30T08:49:00.000-07:00

You can never get enough of what you do not need.

I don’t need a lot of things.

I have no interest in doing a yard sale by myself with a baby. I don’t want to deal with early birds, making change and haggling over $2 items. Listed below are the things I am giving away. All you have to do is come pick it up (call me first so I know you’re coming or email me to set up a time). I will delete items as they are claimed. First come, first served.

Picnic Basket – Brand New

Ceramic Angles

Norman Rockwell Christmas Plate Set 4 plates– Brand New

Misc. Christmas Bead Garlands

Peter Rabbit Crib Mobile, Wall Hangings & insulated bottle holder - Brand New

Fall themed Gift Bags

Ceramic Fall leaves – can be used as candle plate or hang on the wall

Silver & white candle plate

8 bubble glass votive candle holders

Lenox votive candle holders – brand new

Large lot of lace

Yarn – maroon, dark teal, off-white, black, pink & blue

Snowflake Photo Frames

Get the Baby Gates Warmed Up!

2009-04-29T08:39:00.000-07:00

I was hoping Everett would give me at least 2 more weeks to pack and move before he started crawling. Things are getting close - I don't know if he'll wait that long. Last night I was working on packing up the craft room. Ev was sitting on the floor next to some boxes and he seemed to be interested in the colorful fabric scraps on top of the boxes. Next thing you know, this is what I see: Yup, he pulled himself up on the box and got what he wanted.
Oh boy.
It was getting close to bedtime so I hurried and lowered his crib mattress. No sense in having him fall on his head after he just learned a new trick. Up on his knees and pulling himself up on boxes...crawling is around the corner.

How do you know when it's time to give your son a haircut? When you take a picture of him and he looks like he stuck his finger in a light socket. Time for a trim...

Goodbye Old Friend

2009-04-28T08:36:00.000-07:00

Thursday I gave her some extra attention. Extra dusting, extra playing, extra buffing to any hand smudges. One last photo with Ev. Friday the piano movers came and within 20 minutes, she was gone.

*~ Sigh ~*

All that’s left is an empty room with a piano footprint. At least she’s going to a good home where I’m confident she’ll be taken care of. The piano was a wedding gift from my Mom and Ron. I came home from work one day and there it was in our living room with a giant gold bow on top. What a sweet surprise. At first, Aaron wasn’t too excited about having a piano take up a large chunk of our living room, but in the end it grew on him and he was the first to insist on never selling it. It’s just the first of many possessions I have to part with for a while. If all goes well, a year from now I’ll be putting her right back where she belongs. With us at home.

Welcome to Motherhood, Dear

2009-04-22T15:02:00.001-07:00

Monday night, Aaron graciously offered to take care of Everett if he woke up in the middle of the night. Since Everett's been born, I have always been the one to handle any middle-of-the-night activity. Now that I'm working, I am more than happy to share the responsibility.

At 4:30 am Ev started crying so Aaron jumped into action. He made Everett's bottle, changed his pants and tried to swaddle him. This is where things went horribly wrong. Our house was 75 degrees when I put Everett to bed. Usually I swaddle him and give him a bottle and he's out for the count. Since it was so hot I just had a thin newborn receiving blanket over him. Poor Aaron was trying to swaddle an 8 month old in a newborn size blanket and his arms kept coming out and he would wake up.

Finally on the third try Aaron had had it. He put Everett to bed crying, threw the blanket on him and slammed the door. (so much for me getting extra sleep!) Thankfully, after a few seconds, Everett fell back asleep. Aaron came back to bed upset and frustrated. He was trying so hard.

Aaron: "Do you think velcro would help keep his arms down?"
Me: "I'm sure someone, somewhere has made a blanket with velcro on it."
Aaron: "No, I'm serious - I've got some velcro straps in the garage, do you think that would work?"
Me: "No, you can't velcro our son's arms down. Go back to sleep."

Later that day, Aaron called me and apologized for losing his mind for a while.
Welcome to my world.

Day of Dread

2009-04-21T08:25:00.001-07:00

I started back to work this week. I was up at 5am feeding Everett and putting him back to sleep. I squeezed into something “office appropriate” and even curled my hair. I tried putting on makeup, but that’s when I lost it and the tears just came. Forget the makeup. It won’t stay on anyway. Aaron was up with me and was doing everything he could think of to help me. He’s such a sweetheart. He told me how nice I looked, even though I know I looked and felt awful. He knows how hard this is for me. I got my little angel out of bed and just held him while he woke up. On came the tears again. I changed him and fed him, and off to Grandma’s house we went.

Our families have been so wonderful through this mess. The combined shout was, “Don’t send him to a babysitter, we’ll watch him!” What a relief. I hate to be away from him, but at least he’s with grandparents all day that will love him. His current nickname is “Hot Potato”. Grandma Carol in the morning, Grandma & Grandpa Scharping in the early afternoon, and Grandma Nettie in the late afternoon. All are within a 2 minute drive or walk from each other, and just a 10 minute drive from my work. It’s the best outcome for a crummy situation.

Being at work seems so empty and unimportant.

Instead of seeing this sweet face:

I have to look at this:Instead of playing and teaching, I’m typing and filing.Instead of making funny noises and faces to get my little one to giggle, I’m making phone calls.There’s no comparison. It’s hard to focus on why I am here.

One day down, 364 to go…

You Know It's Spring In Eastvale When...

2009-04-18T20:32:00.000-07:00

...I've already swatted 5 flies and there are 3 more on the ceiling laughing at me because I can't reach them. They seem to be attracted to my house like it was built on a pile of poo. Hmmm...I guess since our house was built on what was dairy land it IS built on a pile of poo. My mistake.

So, How's Your Food Storage?

2009-04-14T08:42:00.000-07:00

Not what it should be? Depending on the grocery store to be open? Perhaps THIS will light a fire under your butt. Or maybe THIS report. Some highlights include:

* Due to the financial crisis farmers can’t get loans to grow food
* In the U.S. 7 million fewer acres of crops were planted this year
* China’s crops failed by 40% due to drought
* Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina are also 40% less in yields from last year
* California is the #1 food & agriculture producer for the U.S.
* California is in a huge drought
* Our natural gas lines run over the San Andreas fault several times including the Cajon Pass
* 60% of SoCal water is imported
* 3 major water importing pipelines for SoCal run across the San Andreas fault

Hmmm...is it any wonder we’ve been asked to get a food & water storage? Is it any wonder we’ve been asked to learn to grow a garden? Someday, the food you grow will be the food you eat. We are one earthquake away from chaos. I believe it won’t be the earthquake that will be so devastating, it will be the aftermath. No water, no food, no fuel. If the freeways are damaged, no one can get in and no one can get out. If no food can get out of California, what will that do to the rest of the country? Sounds like the perfect storm, indeed. Things are going to get really ugly really fast. Take care of your families. Get to work!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-11T19:50:00.001-07:00

Aaron FINALLY took a day off! We had an amazing day together. What's even better is that we get to spend tomorrow together too. Our family hopes your family has a wonderful Easter!

Wasted Space

2009-04-07T19:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I worked on gutting out our closet. What did I find? Four boxes of "skinny clothes" and nineteen pairs of workout pants that don't fit.

Nineteen.

NOTE TO SELF: You can buy all the workout clothes you want, they're still not going to take YOU on a walk.

When Life Gives You Lemons...

2009-04-05T17:43:00.000-07:00

Aaaah...I needed today. I always love Conference weekend, but I really needed today.

I hadn't left the house since Wednesday because of a sick baby and working on packing up the house. Everett has been up coughing, so the last three days I've only gotten a hand full of hours sleep. Aaron hasn't been home much - Tuesday he worked 2 days in a row without coming home or sleeping. Friday he didn't get home until 4am, I guess that would make it Saturday...The last week has seemed to melt into one never ending day.

Sunday morning, Ev and I made it to my mom's house and were greeted with the usual fantastic breakfast spread. Mmmmm...comfort food and a giant cup of hot chocolate to drown my sorrows in.

The Conference talks were just what I needed to shake me out of my pity party. I regularly need a swift kick in the pants to get me back on track. I needed to take a step back and take an eternal look at things. Our situation completely sucks right now, but I'll take my situation over the circumstances of the people in President Monson's talk. This is just a small period of time and it will pass. I am getting focused and am ready to put my head down and get to work. During the break between Conference sessions, we headed back into mom's garden. It couldn't have been a more perfect day. Ev and I watched my mom feed the chickens and collect eggs. Her broccoli is ready to harvest and her flowers are in full bloom. My sis, Melonnie came up with the great idea to make some lemonade. We picked some lemons from my mom's tree, squeezed the lemons and Melonnie made the perfect pitcher of lemonade. Yum! So I'm feeling better and I know things will be ok. I needed some words of counsel and my family today, and I got just that. This week will be better.

It's Official

2009-04-03T08:59:00.000-07:00

We’re moving. The boxes are stacked and ready to be filled. The donation and trash piles have been started. I have less than a month to pack. I haven’t smiled much in the last couple days.I find that I keep explaining our situation even when it is not necessary. I can’t help it. I just don’t want people to think we got to this point because we were irresponsible. We planned everything so carefully. We bought a home with a responsible loan we could afford on Aaron’s income. We had no credit debt. All home improvements were paid with cash. In the five years we have been married we’ve only gone on 2 vacations. We worked very hard. We waited to have a family to be sure we could afford it.

All was right until I was about 2 months pregnant. The bottom fell out of the boating industry and the stable job Aaron had for 10 years was now questionable. He saw the writing on the wall and got his ducks in order to start his own business. He was hoping to continue working in the boating industry while learning his new trade, but when Everett was 2 months old Aaron lost his job. It’s hard to keep a job selling boats when there’s no one to sell boats to. For the last five months we’ve been hanging by a string trying to keep the business going and keep our household going. We’re finally at the breaking point and can’t hold on anymore. We can’t sell our house so we’re going to try to rent it out. Aaron’s parents have been gracious enough to let us live with them for a while. Aaron is going to keep plugging away at building his business - which is going great, but it’s just not enough fast enough. As for me, I have to go back to work full time at my old job to cover the bills and get us financially back to where we were before this whole disaster started.

I am an absolute mess. I’ve been bawling on and off much of the last two days. I’m not worried about the move. I could care less about the house. I’m worried about my baby boy. My son will not be with me during much of the day. In less than two weeks I have to find a babysitter. Someone who will be a complete stranger to him. I keep holding him close and apologizing over and over for failing him. I never wanted this for him.

Every mom has her own set of standards and measures of what being a successful mother means to her. At the top of my list was never to have my child in daycare. For me, it is just unimaginable. I’m the mom. It’s my job and my responsibility to be there for my kid every step of the way. How am I going to do that when I’m at work? I can’t. I can’t be the best mom I can be because I won’t be there.

I’m looking at about 9 months to a year of working before I can quit. In that time, most likely I’ll miss the first time he crawls, takes his first steps and says his first words. I’ll get to hear about it over the phone, or maybe in a blurb of a conversation while the "substitute mother" and I are going over next weeks’ schedule. It feels like my heart has been ripped out. I’m so sad. I can’t believe this is happening. For me, it’s a nightmare.

Aaron says I need to change my attitude about going back to work. He’s wondering if I found a rewarding, challenging and fun career with the right benefits that perhaps I wouldn’t be so disgruntled and would maybe enjoy going back to work. Sorry to dash your hopes darling, but even if I got paid to vacation in Hawaii I would still be miserable and wouldn’t want the job if it meant my son had to go to daycare. For me, the rewarding, challenging, fun career with the right benefits is being a mom. I’m not a career girl. Never wanted to be. I like the title wife and mother.

Don’t get me wrong, I am grateful that we have the opportunity to dig ourselves out of this financial hole. I am grateful that I have a job available when so many don’t. I’ve been asking for the right answer but I just don’t know. I’m no spiritual giant, a lot of times when the answer is in front of me, I just don't get it. I hope I’m not like the guy who perished in a flood and when he reached heaven he asked God why his live wasn’t spared, and God answered, "Well, I sent a fire engine, boat and helicopter - what more did you want?" I don’t want to reject the help that is in front of me, I just wish Everett didn’t have to be the one to pay the price. He didn’t do anything to deserve this. I can’t explain to him or help him understand. All he will know is that mom isn’t there.

Oh, Everett I’m so sorry. I hope this will all be over soon.

New Tricks & Cute Things

2009-03-31T09:53:00.000-07:00

Things have been a little weird around here with being sick, no sleep, and just life in general. I was visiting my mom last week and was showing her Everett's new tricks. She always asks, "Did you write that down for his baby book? You're not going to remember!!". I know she's right. I can't even remember the names of past roommates and co-workers. The sole purpose for this post is so I don't forget.
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Two weeks ago Aaron and I were sitting having dinner, Ev was in his highchair. Aaron asked, "So, when does he know his name?" Hmmm...I dunno. I called out, "Everett!" and he looked at me. Coulda been a fluke. Aaron said "Ev!" and he looked at Aaron. We played this game for about a minute and then I would call out random names "telephone!" or "diaper!". No reaction. Then I would call his name again and sure enough, he would look right at me. Guess that's how you know he knows his name.
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Another trick he is mastering is sitting up. while I'm changing his diaper, he's trying to sit up. When he's awake in his crib, he's trying to sit up. When he's in his swing, he's trying to sit up. He must have abs of steel. For about the last 2-3 weeks I've been sitting him down with the boppy pillow around him for support while he plays with his toys. The pillow is really only for when he gets tired and looses his balance so he doesn't fall backward and whack his head on the floor. Much of the time when he's bored with his toys he'll find the tag on the boppy pillow cover. To him, it is incredibly interesting. I'm sure he's reading the warning and washing instructions. From the kitchen, this is the view I get: Aunt Kelle comes out for her weekly "Everett Fix". She likes to take him on walks outside. When she was here last week, Ev was so sleepy he didn't make it very far on the walk before he fell asleep. She brought him back and I wrapped him up and had her give him a bottle to make him completely pass out. We have a good indicator of when Ev is fully asleep. You see, his binky acts kind of like a "turkey timer". When it pops out, he's done. I do have the cutest kid in the world, you know. It's my job as a mother to state out loud and believe such things.

Sick Day

2009-03-29T14:20:00.000-07:00

When I was working I rarely, if ever called in sick. Unless I was throwing up - I was at work. Aaron has NEVER missed a day of work due to being sick. He had only missed ONE day because his back went out and he couldn't walk. Now that Everett is getting better, Aaron and I both got his cold.

Friday night Ev and I headed to Anaheim to help Aaron with a print job. I wasn't feeling too hot and Aaron let me know his throat was getting scratchy. Ev and I didn't get home until 1am and Aaron didn't get home until 4am. Ev had me up again at 6am and again at 8am for good. Aaron was still passed out, so I just started going about getting things done for the day. By the time Aaron woke up at 2:30pm I had:

Fed the baby 3 times

Changed the baby 4 times

Put the baby down for 2 naps

Washed 3 loads of laundry

Ground 2 cups of wheat

Made 2 loaves of bread

Washed all the dishes

Made some phone calls

And started cleaning the counters

Aaron was nice enough to hold Everett on the couch while he was still trying to wake up. He still didn't feel good and said, "Isn't it nice to have a day just to relax and be sick?" . My thought was, "Who's relaxing?"

We did get a lot of family snuggle time in between coughing, sneezing and blowing noses. It was nice to have Aaron home. I can't remember the last time he was home during daylight. Even though we were having a sick day, Aaron still trimmed and mowed the lawn and I gave the Moe a much needed bath. Aaron decided that tonight was a "take-out" dinner night so I wouldn't have to cook. So he put in the phone order and watched Ev while I picked up dinner. Aaaah, 15 minutes of alone time to blast the ipod. Nice!

Everett decided since it was Saturday night, it was time to party. I had put him to bed 4 times within a 2 hour period. At midnight I finally gave up and sat up with him on the couch again. He slept soft and sound. Me? Not so much. At 6am I finally put him back to bed and I got to lay down in my nice comfy bed. We woke up at 9am Sunday still coughing, stuffy and feeling icky. We had Moe come snuggle with us in bed since he was clean and it was sheet washing day. He was happy as could be.We rarely let him in bed with us because this is the result: Gross. When Ev woke up, we threw him in bed with us too. I just love my little family. My life is so sweet, I am a very happy girl.

Adventures in Food Storage

2009-03-26T10:27:00.000-07:00

Ev was running a fever last night and we got to spend another night "sleeping" on the couch. I'm so tired, my back is toast. I have to admit watching my poor little one sleep while he was cuddled up next to me was a sweet experience. I have to keep reminding myself that these moments will be gone in a blink, and someday he won't need me to cuddle up to.
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Since we're stuck at home for a while I decided to work on learning how to use my food storage. I've been practicing and doing a bit of "trial and error" trying to learn how to use this stuff. There's no sense in having 100 cans of wheat if all I know how to do is look at it. It's not going to magically turn into something edible by itself. For Christmas my mom got me a wheat grinder -woohoo! I'd been wanting the hand grinding kind. Why not the electric one, you ask? I figure, if I am in the position where I have to grow my own food and grind my own wheat I probably will not be able to afford the electric bill either. More time consuming, but at least I know it will work when I need it. Check out my fancy schmancy set up: The grinder isn't wide enough to affix to my counter, so my only other option was to stick it on the bar stool. I started with making bread. Through trial and error I found out that it is better to grind your wheat the right consistency the FIRST time. Re-grinding it to make it finer is a time consuming pain in the butt.
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Also, fresh yeast and newly ground wheat rise much faster than yeast and flour that has been sitting at the store for long periods of time. If you're using a bread machine you have to watch it or it will rise too much, hit the top of your bread machine, fall and get dough goop all around the inside of your machine. That was a fun clean up... Another tip my mom was kind enough to share with me before I started, was that if the recipe calls for, say 3 cups of flour, use 2 cups of regular all purpose flour and 1 cup of ground wheat flour. Otherwise you'll end up with a wheat brick. Here is the recipe I used:
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Ulla Saunders Roll Recipe

For Bread Machines: Makes 1 loaf or 9-10 lg. rolls)

*Remember, fresh ground wheat rises faster - watch your dough!

Put ingredients in machine in order given. To make rolls, set it on dough. When done, oil hands & form balls. Put in a greased pan & let rise until 1 inch above rim. Bake 15 min. @ 350 degrees.

1 pkg. yeast (1 T.)

3 C. flour (1 C. whole wheat, 2 C. regular all-purpose flour)

1 t. salt

2 T. powdered milk

5 T. sugar

3 T. Crisco (butter flavor) or use margarine

1 C plus 1 1/2 t. lukewarm water

1 egg

...and Tadaa! Yummy rolls made from scratch. I even made a batch of oatmeal raisin cookies and added my ground wheat flour. You can't taste the difference and it adds some nutritional value. Of course, if you add up all the sugar and butter in the cookies, health is not exactly the goal but it sure helps a little to justify how many cookies you ate. "But honey, they're made with whole wheat!"

I Stand Corrected

2009-03-25T11:12:00.000-07:00

Voicing my excitement out loud about Everett sleeping so well got him saying, "Oh, yeah??Watch this!".

The last two nights were back to no sleep for me. The first night he was up every 3 hours. Last night he started getting a cold and couldn't breathe so I camped out on the couch with him all night. He was up at least every hour and was just miserable, which made me just as miserable. I have learned my lesson. Next time, I'll keep my trap shut.

Finally

2009-03-23T07:48:00.000-07:00

Finally. Everett is sleeping (mostly) through the night! And finally, I'm feeling human again. When Everett was first born he was a pretty good sleeper. I regularly got 6-7 hours sleep all in a row (much different than 6-7 hours in 1-2 and 3 hour increments). This was a much welcomed gift to a new mommy.

Something happened when he was 3 months old. He decided that sleep was optional and was up every 2 1/2 - 3 hours. All night. Every night. I was a tired zombie all the time. This routine lasted until about one week ago. He started sleeping for a solid 7-8 hours! I feed him and he sleeps again for another 2 hours. Sweet Jesus, hallelujah! I can handle THIS schedule! I do hope it is his new schedule and not just a fluke.

Look what else I noticed this week: This is the top of my head. See that fuzz sticking up everywhere?? My hair has started growing back! Finally! A couple of months ago my hair was falling out in massive amounts. My hair is very thin already, so this was an extreme worry for me. I was getting scared it wouldn't stop. Thank goodness it did. I'm gonna look funny for a while with fuzzy hair sticking up everywhere, but I it's better than looking funny because I'm bald.

80

2009-03-17T19:32:00.000-07:00

Saturday we celebrated Aaron's Grandpa Scharpings' birthday. We had a big family bash to honor his running total of 80 years old. Grandpa still goes on walks most every day, volunteers once a week at the thrift store as the merchandise "fix-it guy", is active with his church, goes out on trips and vacations, tends his fruit and nut trees, and is pretty good on the computer too. We love you, Grandpa! You earned every candle on that cake! And yes, he blew them out all in one breath - hope your dreams come true!

Risk vs. Plain Ol' Stupid

2009-03-13T12:19:00.000-07:00

We have neighbors whom we refer to as "The White Trash Neighbors". Partly because we can never remember their names, but mostly because they don't take care of the things they own. Their yard, for example has been dirt and weeds since they put in a pool 4 years ago. We finally got sick of the weeds in our grass so we put up a block wall. So a few days ago I had a conversation with our "White Trash Neighbor". We were talking about how horrible the economy is and that we are both having a hard time figuring out what to do to keep our homes. All was going well until this sentence fell out of her mouth,

"We knew when we signed for our loan that we couldn't afford it, but we decided to take a risk."

Excuse me...what did you say?

A risk? The word risk means there is a small possibility for success. Signing for a loan you KNEW you couldn't afford means you KNEW you were going to fail. Honey, that wasn't a risk, that was just plain STUPID!

People like them are the reason my property value has plummeted.
People like them are the reason my husband lost his job.
People like them are the reason we can't sell our home and may lose it.

I honestly had to shut out the vision of me grabbing a folding chair and going all "Jerry Springer" on her rear end. I kept my perma-smile on and ended the conversation but not before she let me know they hadn't made their mortgage payment in 3 months and now the mortgage company was going to rework their loan and lower their payment. I'm so glad to hear that they are getting help since they so CLEARLY deserve it...(yes, I'm being sarcastic.) Grrr.

The List and The Nixon

2009-03-09T06:04:00.000-07:00

My mom was going through a rough patch a few months ago so my Aunt had her make a list of all of the things that make her happy and all of the things she would like to do but hadn't. On her list of things that made her happy, Everett was at the top so we've been sure to visit on a regular basis. She always says, "He's like vitamins". He's such a happy kid, it's hard not to feel good around him. On her list of things she'd like to do, she wanted to visit different museums. In January, she went with my brother to the Getty Center. This weekend, Kelle, my mom, Ev and I went to The Nixon Library. Everett got to meet The President and The King. He decided to christen the carpet runner in Nixon's childhood home. I tried to scrub it the best I could,but if you see some spots in front of the fireplace...that was my kid. My son has this strange fascination with shoes and feet. Aunt Kelle was happy to feed the fetish. (shoe salesman or podiatrist?)

He also got to go on Nixon's helicopter. My camera died 1/2 way through so I missed the photo op. Luckily, my sister sent me her photos. The grounds were absolutely beautiful. The museum had a lot of really cool things to see. There was this creepy sculpture of Nixon. It looked kind of like a bunch of gum wads stuck together. I'm sure someone worked very hard on it.

There was a nice gift shop. Kelle wanted to buy Ev a onsie that said, "I am not a criminal", but to no avail. I guess the library doesn't want to dwell on that moment. I'm so glad we got the opportunity to go.

One Year

2009-03-05T18:35:00.000-08:00

I did it. I have kept an online journal for a year. This may be the longest I've stuck to anything, besides eating and breathing. I've had a great time entering in little tid bits about what's going on in my and my family's life. What's even cooler is that through the art of blogging and blog-stalking (don't act shocked-y'all do it too...Hi Jackie!!) I've been able to meet new people and learn the most interesting things, for example:

It is illegal to let your kid pee on the side of the road. (Krista- you could have been SOOO busted!)
There are kids that poop more than mine.
How to microwave a single serving of cake.
Who can make me an awesome cake, not from the microwave.
How a mother faithfully and beautifully handled life after tragically losing her baby.
Where to get a fire lit under my butt to get my life and food storage in order.
If I want my photo taken, I've got no shortage of options at my fingertips with Chelsea, Kamee or Tonya.
How to take the ultimate bubble bath.
Where to take a little girl to have a REAL tea party.
Where to get some killer cupcakes.
How to do simple craft projects and where to get ideas.
I'm waaaaay more normal than I think.

I have found that I am surrounded by the most funny, creative, intelligent, spiritual, kind-hearted, sassy and beautiful women. Everyone has an interesting story to tell. Every life is important. Thank you for sharing.

Beach Boy

2009-03-03T12:08:00.000-08:00

This weekend the weather was too perfect not to be outside. Ev and I went to visit my sister, Kelle in Corona Del Mar. She lives just a short walk from the beach, so we packed a bag, packed up the boy and headed to the tide pools. Everett was a good sport, but I think it was a bit overwhelming for him. Lots of new things to see, hear and feel. He was a lot more clingy than normal. It was almost like he was holding onto our arms for dear life. The water was freezing, but the sun was warm and the breeze was cool - it felt wonderful. After the beach we walked around Fashion Island. Kelle wanted to take him to the pet store. She loves to see his reaction to new things. The yapping puppies hurt his ears, so to avoid a total meltdown we opted to check out the mute bunnies. We found some furry friends at Z Gallerie (I LOVE that store!). As soon as we got in the car to head home Everett was passed out. What a great afternoon. We will definitely be back.

Oh, Poop!

2009-02-22T10:22:00.001-08:00

I'm up to my eyeballs in it. He's ruined 3 outfits within a 24 hour period. I had to disinfect the Bumbo seat and the bathtub. He had been plugged up for a couple of days, it looks like my plan worked a little too well. No more juice for you, mister.

Grandma's OK

2009-02-20T13:37:00.000-08:00

Late Wednesday night my dad called to let me know that Grandma was in the hospital. She was slurring her words and was having difficulty swallowing. Two years ago she had a mild stroke, and it looked like she had just had another one.

My mom watched Everett and I went to visit her on Thursday morning and boy, was she angry she had to sit in the hospital. She kept pulling out her IV because it "wasn't doin' nothin'" and was upset that the doctors wanted to run more tests on her because she insisted that she was not sick and that there was nothing wrong with her (besides having a stroke...). She said if she knew which direction to go, she'd walk out of there. Aah, Grandma, it's good to see you haven't lost your spunk. I bribed her to stay calm with a visit from Everett when she got home.

Thursday night my Dad called to let me know Grandma was going home. Her speech had improved dramatically and she could swallow again. Saturday morning Everett and I will go for a long visit as promised. I'm glad we get to keep her around for a little longer.

Happy 1/2 Birthday

2009-02-13T13:14:00.000-08:00

So my baby is officially 6 months old today. It’s weird, I can clearly remember my life before him, but it seems like he’s been here all along.

You crack me up. You melt my heart. I could take his picture 100 times a day (and sometimes I do). I'm just trying to remember everything. Ev is definitely supposed to be here with us. Everett, I never want to be without you, even on the days you don’t let me sleep.

Happy

2009-02-09T13:26:00.000-08:00

When is the last time a bowl of fruit made you happy? Since Everett was sick last week, I got to spend some extra time at home - pure heaven! I got to hold my baby longer, get some extra cuddles in and get some cleaning and organizing done. It's been raining for days so I've had an extra excuse to bundle up in a comfy sweatshirt and enjoy being a mom.

While Everett was napping and I was cleaning the kitchen, the storm broke and my kitchen was filled with sunlight. It landed on a stack of tangerines from Aaron's grandparents, and they just looked beautiful. I'm weird, I know, but I'm still very focused on finding joy and happiness in the little things. A sweet baby, a much needed rain storm, a rainbow out my door and a beautiful bowl of fruit was enough to keep me smiling for days.

No Touching!

2009-02-05T20:50:00.000-08:00

Everett's had quite a few milestones in the last couple of weeks, but this one I could do without. Two days ago he got his first cold along with a swollen goopy eye. Lovely. I've been sleeping on the couch while Everett sits upright in his swing so he could breathe while he sleeps. He's up every 1-2 hours and has the saddest little cough. I called his doctor to get some meds for his eye and got schooled on bodily goo terminology.

"So what's wrong?"
- He has a cold and a goopy eye.
"A droopy eye?"
- No, goopy.
"What do you mean?"
- Uhhh, like eye boogers only a lot thicker
"Oh, you mean discharge."
- Whatever. Goop.

To add to our petri dish of diseases, Aaron came home with a nasty cold sore. So I'm not kissing Aaron, Aaron's not touching Everett and Everett doesn't understand what "don't slobber on me" means. If I don't make it to church Sunday, you'll know I've probably got a cold, my eyes glued shut with "discharge" and a big nasty cold sore on my mouth. If I do make it to church, it's probably best not to touch me unless you want the plague.

Parental Tip of the Week

2009-02-03T10:43:00.001-08:00

This study has been in the works for the last 5 1/2 months. I am excited to share with you the final conclusion of my last few months' hard work:

The longer you are in the shower, the less your kid cries.

Yep, you read correctly. I've been testing and studying, trying to find different ways to keep Everett from crying and I found that every time I'm in the shower, he stops crying-I can't hear a thing! As soon as I turn the shower off, I can hear him screaming at the top of his lungs.

I certainly don't want to upset him, think I'll go stand in the shower for a little longer...

1,171

2009-02-02T07:42:00.001-08:00

It is finished.

Not only did my mom pay me to decorate the 2 Christmas trees, she paid me to take down ALL of the decorations in the whole house. Not an easy job on it's own, but ad a baby into the mix and it becomes a real challenge. I plugged along a few hours a day and almost a month later, the project was complete. Remember this tree?

My Aunt wondered how many ornaments were on the tree and challenged me to count as I took them off. The final tally was 1,171. Would you believe there was still another full bin of ornaments that didn't go on? Holy cow mom, you can stop buying ornaments now.

So Grown Up

2009-01-28T15:28:00.000-08:00

So my little one is getting bigger everyday. He's reached some milestones in the last couple of weeks that make me feel like he's growing up too fast.

Two weeks ago we started him back on food. When we tried rice cereal, it stopped him up completely so I quit for a little bit. His rear end wasn't functioning normally even after he hadn't had rice cereal in 2 weeks. Thanks to a few doses of apple juice, that problem is solved and now I've got rice cereal, apple sauce and sweet potatoes constantly smeared on my shirt. On Tuesday, January 20th he finally figured out how to roll over. He had been rocking side to side ever since he found his feet and decided they were oh-so-tasty. Pretty soon he'll be all over the room like a tumble weed. This weekend Aaron said, "so when does he sleep in his own room?". My answer? NEVER!! (Just kidding) With a little pouty frown I agreed that it is time for him to start sleeping in his crib. I didn't mind having him right next to me in his co-sleeper. I figured he'd have his whole life to sleep in his own room so I didn't mind having him so close. Over all he's doing pretty well, I think I'm having a harder time adjusting than him. I still haven't moved his co-sleeper yet. Maybe this weekend...

So little one, what will you learn and discover in the next few weeks? Only time will tell. Just take it slow, your mom needs more time enjoy you while you're little.

A Good Place To Start

2009-01-26T11:54:00.000-08:00

My Aunt Cathy rocks! (hi Cathy!)

In response to the post below, she sent me the information to this fabulous site:

http://www.flylady.com/

This is exactly what I needed. A place to start. It shows you how to take baby steps on how to clean, declutter and get back on track in 5 minute blocks, which is all I get sometimes.

There is hope.

Falling Behind

2009-01-23T14:02:00.000-08:00

Need some serious help here. Moms, please let me know what I’m doing wrong…

My sister-in-law has 3 boys. She watches at least 3 other kids (sometimes more) five days a week, does all the school and pre-school runs, football and baseball practice, grocery shopping, laundry, goes to all the family and friend get-togethers and still manages to have her house for the most part, clean and put together. Last month I asked her how she gets anything done. She told me I would eventually get into my own groove and find a way to get everything done.

Everett is 5 months old now, and I’ve still got no groove.

I still feel like the gawky white girl with no rhythm desperately trying to “look natural” on the dance floor, but failing miserably.

I watch other mothers who have perfect hair, makeup and nails, get to the gym everyday, have beautifully landscaped yards and no dishes in the sink. I can’t help but wonder where the heck they get the time to put their lives together like that?

I’ve come up with two possible conclusions:

1. Their husbands must have no life and watch the kids for hours on end
2. They ignore their children….a lot.

I’m feeling like a complete failure in almost every department of my life. I simply just can’t find the time to get everything done and I’m feeling insanely overwhelmed.

I’ve got to be up with the baby all night, iron Aaron’s clothes and get him out the door for work, get Everett fed, dressed and diaper bag ready, get myself showered and fed, get out the door to work, try to be productive having a baby at work with me, get home and feed the baby, pay attention to our neglected dog, feel guilty about avoiding that lady from church that wants to give me another calling, make dinner, do the dishes, work on the laundry and somehow figure out how the vacuuming, bathroom cleaning and dusting will get done all while the baby is whining to be picked up. My poor husband is begging for attention and wondering why our yard is overgrown and nicely ignores the fact that I haven’t put on makeup or done my hair all week, and if I could squeeze in a bit of exercise, that would be cool too. And did I mention my hair is falling out? Nice.

I’ve got a lot on my plate but I’m no different from any other mother. Sure, Aaron works insane hours so I’m on my own a lot of the time, but that is no excuse – is it?

The truth is, I look like garbage every day – I am the ugly unkempt lady at the grocery store. I’m tired every day. My house is filthy. My once beautiful yard looks like a jungle. Aaron has got to be so disappointed with me even though he would never express it vocally. Every single day I feel like I’m falling farther behind and will never catch up.

What I’m wondering is, is everyone just as screwed up as me and faking being put together or am I just not very good at homemaking and terrible at time management? Please be blunt, don't sugar coat anything-it's not helpful. I gotta know.

Everett Scissorhands

2009-01-13T09:10:00.000-08:00

Since the day he was born, you couldn't stop Everett from scratching his face up. I would put scratch mittens on his hands and 2 minutes later they would be off, so I gave up. I've got several photos just like this one. It seems no matter how often I trim his nails, he manages to gouge out and carve up his face. Luckily they heal quickly, but until he outgrows this phase I'll just have to look like a bad mom.

Where Did The Last 2 Weeks Go?

2009-01-02T21:34:00.000-08:00

It's a long-winded post, I know but c'mon! It's 2 weeks worth.
Here's where my 2 weeks went:

A few days before Christmas we celebrated Aaron's 32nd birthday at his parents' house. Aaron needed help putting his marketing portfolios together so he rallied his family together at his birthday party and put everyone to work. We set up an assembly line affixing the different sticker labels Aaron had printed to the inside of presentation folders so when he goes to companies to sell his product, he can show them some of what he can do.

We had a good time. We had yummy tacos and ended with apple pie. Christmas Eve was lots of fun. Late in the morning me and Ev headed to The Avocado House restaurant in Chino. My friend, Krista's parents run a catering business and are opening their restaurant this month. Every year they invite everyone they know (which is EVERYONE) over for Christmas Eve breakfast. It's great to see a bunch of people I grew up with and especially to visit with Krista.

In the afternoon Aaron, Ev and I headed to Aaron's parent's house to hang out with his family and cousins. We had a used DVD gift exchange and munched on finger foods. What kind of mom would I be if I didn't dress Everett in some tragic Christmas outfit that he'll be embarrassed of in about 13 years? I think the "Mom, you suck" look he gave me says it all: The hat was too small and made an indent around his head that was still visible 2 hours after the hat was removed. Sorry buddy, I didn't realize your brain was being starved of blood supply. I'll pay better attention next time I dress you in a lame holiday-themed outfit.

Then it was off to my mom's house for dinner. We had a good time and got to visit with my cousins that came down from Idaho. We finally got home around 11pm. Aaron and I stayed up until about 2am getting everything ready and the house picked up a bit for Christmas. Aaron was right, Christmas is going to happen whether your house is decorated or not (or in our case, even if your tree is leaning against the wall propped up with a step ladder and your angel is holding on for dear life and is hoping not to crash the other way out the window). We hardly noticed. In the morning we opened gifts as a little family for the first time. We got each other a couple of little gifts and Everett got a couple of little things too. Yes, I know he can't open a present on his own, I mainly did it for the photo op. The rest of our Christmas day is insane. Every year we threaten to stay home, but decide to make all the stops anyway.

At 10am we went to Aaron's parents to open gifts with them. At 12 pm we went to my dad's. At 3pm we went to Aaron's grandparents' for dinner and at 7pm we had to go back to my mom's house to open our gifts from her because she didn't have time to wrap them before we got there Christmas Eve. We finally got home by about 9pm. Whew! It's a good thing everyone lives close so it's a 15 min. or less drive between houses. Maybe that's the problem, if everyone lived farther away we'd have to do less.

One common theme with every household was that Christmas was toned waaaaaay down from years past. One or two simple gifts replaced the usual hoards of gifts and hours of unwrapping. The main focus of the day was spent just being with each other. I have to be completely honest - I did not miss the extravagant Christmas that I've been used to. Although we were running all day long to see everyone some how, we finally weren't stressed and just focused on family.

Ev got a jumper from his grandparents. He loved it! Imagine the fun he'll have when his feet actually touch the ground!Two days after Christmas Aaron's side of the family headed out to Desert Hot Springs to visit and have Christmas with Grandma Nell. As soon as we walked in the door we piled the babies on her lap so she could get as much time with them as possible. We don't get to see her very often, so time spent with her is extra special. She crocheted all of us girls super soft scarves-totally cool. Monday and Tuesday me and Ev went to work. Wednesday was New Year's Eve. My sister, Kelle came out to visit. We went to Victoria Gardens and walked around for a bit. Later on, we picked up Aaron and headed over to my mom's house to eat pizza and play games. We made it to 10:30pm when Everett started to lose it so we headed home. Ev and I were both in bed by 11pm. Aaron headed down to the neighbor's house to hang out by the fire pit and shoot illegal fire works. I vaguely remember hearing them, but was so tired I couldn't care less.

New Year's day I worked on taking down Christmas. Since our tree fell over and half of the ornaments fell off, it took a lot less time to undecorate the tree (another positive!) I got it taken down, but not put away. Who knows how long it will take me to get everything put away. You can't see the floor in my living room. It looks like Christmas threw up all over it.

Today we had 2 of our nephews over. We spent the day shooting Aaron's BB gun in our make-shift backyard shooting range and launching rockets at the park.Everett slept in the stroller for the most part.Someday he'll be big enough to play with the older boys...

What rocket launch would be complete without losing one in someone's backyard?We ate hot dogs and decorated brownies with frosting and sprinkles. We finished the day by watching E.T. and getting Carl's Jr. for dinner. It couldn't have been a more perfect day.

Odd Jobs And The Rules of Decorating

2008-12-23T09:33:00.000-08:00

Having tight finances causes you to take on all kinds of odd jobs to make ends meet. Around Christmas time there is always someone who needs help doing something. The week after Thanksgiving I signed(yes, I've signed his cards for him for 3 years now), stuffed, sealed, labeled and packaged up 1,100 Christmas cards to clients for my boss. You can also always count on my mom needing help decorating her trees. I know you must be thinking, "She makes her mom pay her to help decorate for Christmas? What a jerk!". What you gotta understand is the way my mom decorates. It IS a job. The word "simple" is not in her vocabulary. Everything she decorates is far beyond what any normal person would ever do. The entire house is fully decorated to rival that of Disneyland. Everywhere you look there is something interesting and beautiful to look at.On the first day I came to decorate, I pulled up and couldn't stop laughing at my Uncle's truck. I guess there is no limit to what can be decorated for Christmas. For my mom, detail is everything. She has 4 trees, I help decorate the two larger trees. One of them is 12 feet tall. Let's just say, she likes a little tree with her ornaments. I had to navigate a huge ladder around the tree and climb up and down that huge ladder hanging hundreds of ornaments.

Since I was young, I was always the one to help my mom decorate the tree so I have been properly schooled in the art of tree decorating. Here are the rules:

1. No two like ornaments can be next to each other

2. Hanging an ornament on the cording from the tree lights is unacceptable

3. The back of the tree must be decorated just as much as the front of the tree

4. If you can't find an empty branch to hang an ornament on, you're not trying hard enough

5. Just when you think you're finished, mom will find another bin full of ornaments

6. Quit your whining and get to work

Everett came with me and he was a good boy for the most part so I could get some work done. I would strap him in the Baby Bjorn and we'd decorate up and down the ladder. I don't think I'll tell Aaron about that part. Three days later I got the job done. It's such a pain doing the decorating, but once it's done it's nothing short of spectacular. It is indeed a celebration of Christ's birth and my mom goes all out to make it special.

So, Merry Christmas, everyone! It's going to be a wonderful celebration!

TIMBER!!!!

2008-12-20T07:18:00.000-08:00

I finally finished decorating the tree last night. I was quite pleased with myself. At 3am this morning Aaron and I woke up to a jingling crash! The tree had fallen over and the ornaments went scattering all over the floor. I had noticed that the tree was leaning a little, but it looked that way from the time I put it up so I thought nothing about it. Well, that leg of the stand broke off and down the tree came! Maybe it was a cursing from my mother because I was lazy and didn't decorate the back of the tree(a decorating sin) and the front of the tree just couldn't carry all of the weight?
So, my poor angel is hanging upside-down with her skirt around her head, a very unangel-like compromising position, and there are shattered ornament bits and scratch marks on the piano. Perhaps not the best way to keep the re-sale value if I need sell it in the future.
Since I am looking at the positives this year I came up with a few...having our tree fall over gave me the opportunity to practice with my rarely-used wide angle camera lens, my piano is now dusted, and at least I have a good sturdy step ladder to help prop up our Christmas tree in the corner. So there.

Broke Christmas

2008-12-09T13:19:00.000-08:00

Whoever did that survey that found that poor people are happier than rich people didn't bother to ask my opinion. I guess there is a difference between poor and broke. Poor means you never had anything to begin with, broke means you had it but lost it. I guess that's why I'm sulking a bit...I'm missing what "used to be".

The boat industry took a dump last year and Aaron's been out of work for almost 2 months. He's started a printing company, but like any new business it's going to take a while to get off the ground. He's working long hours and trying his best for our family. I will always love that characteristic about him. There is not one person I know that can out-work him. Until things get going, we just have to hold on as tight as we can. With many tears and feelings of failing my son, I started back to work part-time at my old job. My boss has been kind enough to let me bring Everett. (we'll see how long that lasts...) It's insane to think about how much has changed for us in the last year.

Everything is scaled back to practically zero and it's almost time to kick into survival mode. I'm surveying my home and making a list of what I can sell. I suppose if you go by Gerald Celente's prediction of the state of America by 2012, Aaron and I are just ahead of the pack. Lucky us.

Christmas also has been turned back to the bare bones. In our families we drew names instead of buying for everyone. We're also doing a gift exchange of used DVD's. Aaron and I agreed to not get gifts for each other (although, I won't be able to stand it and I'll have to at least make him something). Lucky for us, Everett has no idea what Christmas is and if things are still not up to par next year at least he'll be at the age to be perfectly happy playing with a cardboard box. (hopefully not the one we'll be living in...)

This is strange to me. It's almost Christmas and my tree is only half decorated. There is no holiday hustling and bustling. I haven't stepped foot in a store to buy anything. It almost seems like that's where my getting into the "Christmas Spirit" comes from. I know I'm supposed to focus on Christ at Christmas, and I do...but the presents sure are fun!! This year it had to be different. So, instead of moping about like I have been for the last few days, I gave myself a hearty smack across the face and woke myself up out of my pity party. Off to work I went getting myself interested in Christmas.

On went the painfully cheesy Christmas music I love so much, I baked a loaf of yummy bread and made a batch of wassail, the house smelled terrific. I went to work decorating the house.

We can't afford our usual real tree this year, my brother and sis-in-law were nice enough to let us borrow an extra tree they had. At night Moe, Everett and I went for a walk around the neighborhood and counted all the houses with lights and enjoyed the awesome scent of people having fires in their fireplaces. When we got home I turned off all the lights, lit a bunch of candles and Everett and I watched "The Grinch". I definitely felt better.

Last week I took some photos of Everett for Christmas. Thanks to digital, taking photos doesn't cost me a thing. I had a great time with my little angel. He's so dang cute and has such a sweet presence about him. I'm so happy to be his mom.

Being a grump about our financial situation doesn't help and isn't useful. I know we're not the only ones in this sinking financial boat. Everyone gets their turn in the dumps and right now, it's just ours. Things will get better (hopefully soon) and I will just have to put on a smile and look for the positive until then. Prayers are being answered along the way and my testimony is getting stronger. When I come out on the other side of this mess I will know I needed the experience, no life story is interesting without struggle or opposition.

We are going to have a great story.

Rice Cereal: The Lie

2008-12-07T08:07:00.000-08:00

Everett has typically been a good sleeper. Recently he has been getting up more during the middle of the night. Everyone keeps telling me how much better and longer he will sleep once he starts eating rice cereal. Last night I thought I'd give it a try. I have a house full of people coming over and I needed to get some work done around the house. In order to do that, I needed a sleeping baby.

I spoon-fed him some rice cereal along with his regular dose of milk. He usually goes to bed between 9-10pm. Last night he didn't go to sleep until 11pm, it seems the cereal gave him a boost of energy. I stayed up getting the house put together, Aaron got home at midnight so we stayed up and chatted and headed to bed at 1:30 am. Just as my head hit the pillow, Everett started stirring and was ready to eat again. D'oh!

I fed him and it was back to bed at 2 am. At 5:30 am he woke up again. I fed him and it was back to bed by 6 am. At 7:30 he was up AGAIN. So, here we are...Everett is wide awake, I am a zombie, Aaron has been fast asleep all night. My house is still a wreck and I've still got to manage to get myself presentable for church and make the food for dinner tonight.

How did he manage to sleep worse with the rice cereal before bed? Just my luck, I guess.
Everett buddy, it's a good thing you're cute. This sucks.

Made it Another Year

2008-11-15T10:45:00.000-08:00

Today is our 5th anniversary.

Time is just flying by so fast I can't believe it. We are still madly in love, still having a good time and still looking forward to the future. I love being married to Aaron, he's the perfect one for me! So happy anniversary darlin'! Let's go do something fun!

10 Years Younger

2008-11-11T09:14:00.000-08:00

Since I've been home, I've been able to watch many of the lame daytime TV shows while I'm feeding Everett. In one of my channel flipping excursions I ran across a show called "10 Years Younger" where these old bag-looking ladies get some much needed TLC and are promised to look at least 10 years younger by the end of the show. I never would have given that show a second thought if the events from this morning didn't happen.
.

I was up more than usual with Everett last night, then we had a rough breastfeeding session at 4am that I'm still trying to recover from, and at 6 am Everett decided to wake me up by screaming at the top of his lungs sending me flying out of bed. After I got him calmed down, I went to the bathroom to brush my teeth. Aaron was getting ready for work. We were chatting about the crazy morning when Aaron said, "...it's almost like you've aged 10 years in the last 3 months."

Oh hell, I'm one of those bag-looking ladies like on that show.

Aaron by no means meant that as an insult, it was just his way of saying that I looked "worked". That got me thinking about the show I had seen and I decided I need to not look so "worked". I swore to myself that I would never end up looking like those ladies that show up to church with no makeup, a potato sack looking jumper and Birkenstocks. Now that I have a kid, boy is it a slippery slope and I feel like I'm well on my way to the Birkenstock store. I decided today I would do my own makeover show called "My Kid Took a Long Nap, So Look What I Got Accomplished".

Here I am in all my glory. Yep, I need some major work done.

So, without a clothing expert, hair stylist or makeup artist I attempted to fix myself up. The under eye bags and double chin need to go, but that's a whole other show. That's it for today's show. I hope your kids will take long naps for you so you too can look 10 years younger. See you next time!

Shoe Box Party

2008-11-10T09:15:00.000-08:00

Saturday, I got to be a little Christmas Angel.

Every year my friend, Amanda has a Shoebox Party. That's where we save our empty shoe boxes throughout the year and buy small, inexpensive toys, candy, school supplies and hygiene items and bring them to Amanda's house.

From there, we wrap the shoe boxes in Christmas paper and pack them full of goodies for the kids. Amanda brings them to her church and they distribute them to the kids that need them. For a lot of the kids, this is the only gift they will receive for Christmas.Last This year was just awesome, because not only is Amanda 4 months pregnant, but we were able to make 103 boxes. It was just amazing and I loved that I was able to be a part of it. Many families bring their kids to help, and the kids have a wonderful time packing the boxes full and learning compassion for others at the same time. I will be looking forward to next years' party.

Blessed Baby Boy

2008-11-03T12:03:00.001-08:00

Sunday was Everett's baby blessing at church. Like any important day, things started out crazy but once I calmed down it turned out to be a wonderful day.

To start off, Everett got a giant bug bite on his face Halloween night, just in time for it to be a big red welt by Sunday. I was having an extreme bad hair day because of the humidity which caused me to fuss with it longer which caused me not to have enough time to feed Everett for one last time which caused him to scream and spit up on his new outfit as we headed out the door. Aaron said it reminded him of the days when his mom used to take him to church...not exactly the effect I was hoping to have since the last time Aaron went to church with me was over 7 years ago.

I was nervous beyond belief because not only was Aaron there, but his entire family and one of his friends came also. That comes to 16 non-members and my 5 inactive brothers and sisters. I was hoping everything would go just right so they would come away from this as a positive experience. I need to learn to calm down and not worry so much. We made it to church early and my mom informed us she saved us a seat...on the front row. She had 7 kids, did she not remember that sitting in the front row with an infant is like committing Sacrament Meeting suicide? Oh well, it was nice of her to save us a seat. I started feeding Everett his bottle and he and I started calming down. There were to be 2 baby blessings that day. Just as they started to call the participants up for the first baby blessing Everett loaded his pants. It was so loud family members sitting 3 people over looked my way to see what happened. Aaron and I ran out the door to try to change him since his blessing was next. We realized we would not have enough time to change him before his blessing, so we came back in just in time to hand Everett over to my brother with a loaded diaper.

I had visions of leaking diapers bouncing through my head on his pristine white blessing outfit (which by the way was freaking expensive! Who sets the prices on those???). Everett started crying. My dad, step-dad and brother who were doing the blessing are not skilled in the art of calming a baby down and I thought, "here comes the cherry to top off this disaster of a day". Luckily, that's when Heaven opened up and sent some love and miracles my way.

Our Bishop who was helping with the blessing has a little one of his own and knew just what to do. He stuck Everett's pacifier back in and got the guys to start bouncing him and he calmed down right away. He didn't make another peep. My brother, Ben did Everett's blessing. It was his first time so he was so nervous, but I couldn't tell, he did a perfect job and gave Everett a wonderful blessing. Everett slept for the rest of Sacrament Meeting. (After we took him out and changed his pants of course...no leaking! Woo hoo!)

I was finally calm and focused on what was really important. Everett's blessing and all of the family and friends that were there to support us. I know our non-member friends and family all have their own opinions and feelings about the LDS church, good or bad. Whether the experience was positive or negative for them, I'll probably never know. What I do know is that they left that meeting knowing that we believe in a loving Heavenly Father, we believe Jesus Christ is our Savior and that he loves us so much, we believe the love within a family is so important and that we believe in the power of prayer. That made me a happy girl.

After Sacrament Meeting we headed back to our house for yummy food and to enjoy the afternoon with our wonderful family and friends. We truly have the most amazing families.

Everett, you will never have to question if your family loves you. (this blanket was made for Everett by his great, great Grandma Bland)

Happy First Halloween!

2008-11-01T12:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween everyone! Our internet was down yesterday so I couldn't post photos of our little bumble bee, so here they are today. We had a great day. We visited the grandparents and then headed back to our street for a big neighborhood party. There's about 10-15 families that all get together with lots of food and tons of fun. What a great night.

Wish I could take credit for this way cute idea. It was too cute not to copy. Everett and I made this card for his grandparents for Halloween. They turned out so cute! All in all, a great first Halloween for us! Hope you all had a great day also!

Who's On The Lord's Side, Who?

2008-10-28T08:07:00.000-07:00

My mom sent me this picture in an email. Cute, but a bit sobering at the same time.

I've read all about what has happened in Massachusetts since same-sex marriage was legalized and it doesn't look good. I don't want my son to be "party A" when he gets married, I don't think it is appropriate to teach a 5 year old about homosexuality, I don't want him having homosexuality shoved down his throat at school and taught it is morally correct and wonderful - it is not. I don't think it's cute or appropriate to have "gay day" at school. I refuse to have my rights as a parent taken away from me, I refuse to hand my child over to the government to teach him what they think is politically correct and moral.

Opponents to Prop. 8 say it won't effect schools or churches - oh really? Why did the teacher's union spend 1.25 million to oppose it? Why are they saying it is their duty to teach same-sex tolerance? Just you wait for the lawsuits to start flying, opposing same-sex marriage is going to get you into deep trouble. In Massachusetts a Catholic adoption agency has already shut down rather than adopt to same-sex couples, and I believe it is only the beginning.

As far as Satan is concerned, once the family unit has been destroyed, the rest is easy. Ask any kid who grew up in a divorced or single parent home how easy it was to keep their head on straight. My vote is for Yes on Prop. 8, it will have a bigger impact than most realize.

Moooooo!

2008-10-24T11:42:00.000-07:00

In review of the latest round of photos of me from the wedding, it is impossible to ignore the fact that I look like a fat cow.

"But I just had a baby!" is no excuse because you don't carry baby weight on your arms, back and second chin. My baby is 2 months old and I'm still wearing maternity clothes because nothing else fits. I've got boxes and boxes of the cutest clothes I can't wear and don't have the heart to get rid of because I am holding out for the hope that someday I'll quit being lazy and fix my weight problem.

Starting NOW, I am going to make better food choices and will do some sort of physical activity everyday. I've got to lose 60 pounds to look great, 70 pounds to look awesome, 80 pounds to look like a goddess - and yes, I am that overweight.

I will track my progress (or lack thereof) with the hope that if I think someone is watching me, I'll stick with getting healthy. Time to get serious.

Busy, Busy, Busy

2008-10-20T22:37:00.000-07:00

So it's been a crazy week and a half. Everett's hair was getting too wild so I gave him a trim. Actually, I probably did a hack job, but when all of his hair sticks up anyway, you can't tell. I thought about saving his locks for his baby book I'll probably start when he turns 18 but with how knee deep things are around here lately, I couldn't stand for one more thing to be laying around. I opted to just take pictures instead. I am happy with my decision.

It's finally been cold enough to bust out the fire pit so we had some neighbors over and lit it up! I made popcorn for everyone and we had a good time hanging out. We had Everett all bundled up and he was out like a light.

We got Everett a new swing. He already has one I got used that runs on batteries. We quickly realized the cost of batteries was going to put us in the poor house. We found out Aaron's sister has a swing that plugs into the wall. Seriously, with the way that technology has advanced - it's about freaking time! I honestly feel the baby gear makers have an unholy alliance with the battery makers. Everett loves his new swing and so do we.
Thursday, Everett had a check up and his first round of immunizations - ouch! He was a tough boy and only cried for about 15 seconds while he was getting his 3 shots. After I picked him up he was cool as a cucumber. He gained another pound and a half and is up to 11 lbs. 2 oz. Way to go!
Thursday night we had (Aaron's brother) Andrew & Katie's dress rehearsal at the Fullerton Arboretum. I never knew it was there, it's pretty cool. I had Everett strapped to me while I took some photos. All the groomsmen dressed up in goofy outfits (which didn't make the bride too happy) but it was funny anyway. For the rehearsal dinner they had a pizza party complete with a team banner, sports jerseys and trophies. It was fun.Friday was the wedding. Aaron was the best man and had to get all dressed up ( I LOVE him in a suit!) All the guys wore brown Converse. Everett even had his own tennis shoes but they were too big so I just took some photos of him and had them off the rest of the night.I didn't get to take very many photos at the wedding or reception since I'm a mom now and have a little one to look after. I didn't even get a good photo of the bride and groom all dressed up. Katie was absolutely BEAUTIFUL. She looked like a Hollywood actress right out of the 40's - very glamorous. At the reception I pretty much was confined to the table. The music was way too loud on the other side of the room so we just stayed put. I just took photos of what was around me...

By the end of the night Aaron had had it with playing dress up. Off came the jacket and dress shirt and on came a comfy t-shirt. At the reception they had a photo booth - it was so fun! It gives you a double print of the photos so you put one in the guest sign in book and you keep the other one. We did two. It was a fun day, congrats Andrew & Katie!

Wild Thang, I Think I Love You

2008-10-11T13:45:00.001-07:00

The last time I took nekkid pictures of Everett he was only 4 days old. I figured he was long over due for some blackmail photos, so I stripped him down snapped away. There's just something extra sweet about a baby in the buff. He's gaining weight like crazy and is adding on new tucks and rolls-too cute to be ignored.

We braved our first Sunday at church 2 weeks ago and he did pretty well. He made it through the first 2 hours, but staying for the third was way more than he could handle. I'm still too nervous about breastfeeding at church and it was rippin' hot outside so I couldn't go in the car so we just went home. Tomorrow we'll give it another go. Little by little we'll get the hang of things and stay for the full block. It was nice to get out and be back at church.

Draw A Pig

2008-10-08T13:34:00.000-07:00

My brother sent me this link to a fun little pig-personality-doodle test. Just follow the link, click on "OK, let me draw a pig", draw one and then find out the results.

http://drawapig.desktopcreatures.com/drawApig.asp

Have Fun!

Round of Applause

2008-10-04T09:37:00.000-07:00

So Wednesday, Everett turned 7 weeks old. I put him on the ottoman to take some photos of him (because I clearly don't have enough), and here's what happened:

Who taught you that? I put him back on his tummy just to make sure it wasn't a fluke, and he did it 3 more times. Holy cow, my boy can roll over. It's kind of ridiculous how something so simple could make me beam from ear to ear and call the grandmas to share the news. Geesh, it's not like he did a back flip, but it was just as exciting. I am realizing my days of having him immobile are numbered. Guess I better keep the baby gate close by...

Open For Business

2008-10-02T09:18:00.000-07:00

For months now, Aaron has been burning the candle at both ends right down to the middle. Since the economy took a dump this year and no one is buying boats, Aaron has had to switch gears and come up with another way to take care of his family. Currently, he's working his regular job, opened his own label printing business and is going to school. A typical week for him includes going to school all day Monday and Wednesday. After school, he works in the label shop. All the other days of the week he works his regular job until 6pm, then works at the label shop until about 2am (sometimes 3 or 4am), then wakes up at 8am to start all over again. There are no weekends, days off or holidays. The last vacation we took was almost 2 years ago.

Monday I got a call from Aaron. He was at the label shop and wanted to know if Everett and I could come and visit - he missed us. You don't have to ask me twice! I loaded the car up and headed out to Anaheim to hang out for a few hours. I took care of the woman's work (vacuuming, sweeping and cleaning the bathroom), while the boys printed some labels.

I even made Everett his own label.It was so nice to see Aaron holding Everett. Since he's hardly ever home, Aaron rarely gets to spend time with his son. I appreciate everything he is doing so at least I can be home with Everett. I can tell how much he loves us, and wouldn't trade him for anything. I've got the most perfect husband for me.

Wife Points

2008-09-27T08:30:00.000-07:00

So, what were you doing at 3:30 this morning?

Here's what I was just putting into the oven:

Aaron's brother is getting married in less than 3 weeks and today is the bachelor party. They are going camping and Aaron needed some help getting the food together - call in the wife!

Yesterday was my day to get everything done but Everett had other plans. He decided he didn't want to take naps longer than 15 minutes unless he was strapped to my body (a la Baby Bjorn). So last night I was putting together 4 HUGE man-sandwiches while reaching around Everett on my chest. My back may never be the same.
I had to wait for the rolls to rise in between feedings and getting other supplies ready for his trip. So with 30 minutes of sleep I got my hubby out the door at 5:00 this morning. While they have a great time running around the forest acting like a bunch of adolescent dorks, I'll be cleaning this up:I've racked up so many wife points, I'd marry myself.

6 Weeks

2008-09-24T10:59:00.000-07:00

Everett is 6 weeks old today. You ladies aren't kidding when you said it goes by fast. During a phone conversation, I was asked how I was enjoying hibernation. I never thought about it that way. After I got off the phone that got me thinking. I HAVE been in hibernation, just not the sleeping kind. I've only gone to the store twice in 6 weeks. I rarely leave the house, and if I do it's to go to Grandma's. I haven't turned the TV on, no ipod or stereo (gasp!) in 6 weeks, I'm just not interested.

Everett has all of my attention, and I don't mind one bit.

In the past 6 weeks I've learned:

Grandmas and Aunts don't like to share

All bad habits come from your dad

You HATE your carseat

You have your dad's wavy hair and blue eyes

Pacifiers and Mylicon are lifesavers

You love being outside

I could watch him sleep all day

If I don't stop taking so many photos, Everett is going to think my face is a shiny black lens.

Kaiser, I Hate You

2008-09-22T10:56:00.001-07:00

Kaiser Permanente had been very good to me (despite my rates seeming to hike every year). That is until this month. In the last 2 weeks I've learned that even though Kaiser had a series of documented major screw-ups, and admit that they screwed up- I'm the one that ends up getting screwed over.

A simple problem that could have been fixed in 20 minutes has now escalated to a huge ordeal. I've been shuffled around, sent through a string of departments, and have had our problem discussed all the way to the top of the bureaucracy food chain. In the end we will have to pay out of pocket to fix their screw-up.

So Kaiser, that is why I hate you.

Redneck Potential

2008-09-19T08:45:00.001-07:00

It's the running joke in our family that my husband is a redneck and has redneck friends. My husband never met a redneck sport he didn't like...fishing, deer hunting, duck hunting, toilet seat horseshoes, you name it (just kidding on that last one). When he gets home we watch nature survival shows and on Sunday we get to watch the fishing channel.

It's long been discussed that our spawn would have no choice but to succumb to the redneck gene. Before we knew if we were having a boy or girl, Grandma bought our baby these shoes:

When Everett was born, I had no idea how true those discussions would become. He was even born with a baby mullet. Sure, both of his parents grew up in the 9-0-9 but c'mon! Are our genes mutating? He's all business in the front, and all party in the back.

So my husband goes to Bass Pro Shops and comes home with this onsie. Lord have mercy!

Next thing you know, Everett will be hanging out with these kids:

And wanting this bedroom set:

Guess I better learn to like country music.

The Mommy Club

2008-09-12T19:22:00.000-07:00

I've heard countless horrendous stories from friends detailing the plight of motherhood. It's not something anyone can understand unless they've been there themselves. It's like a secret club, The Mommy Club, as I like to call it.

Giving birth is not enough for admission. You need to survive an entire day of pure grief before you get admittance. Well, I'm proud to announce - I have arrived.

So at 5am today Everett starts fussing so I rush him out of the room so Aaron doesn't wake up. We make it to the couch, get comfy, and he pukes all down the front of my shirt. I'm so tired I don't even care. I wipe it up with a towel and we fall asleep.

Aaron left for work, and at 8am I notice that Moe is throwing up outside - great. The vet said this might happen so discontinue one of his meds. No problem.

At 9am I phone Everett's doctor regarding a very important matter. I leave a message and decide not to take a shower so I don't miss her call. Everett has decided that today he's only taking 15 minute cat naps, so nothing is getting done around the house. I finally get him to nap and decide Moe needs some attention. I call him in the backyard with no response. Guess he doesn't want to play.

A few minutes later I try to call him again and notice a huge puddle of diarrhea on the patio. I go to find Moe and he's foaming at the mouth and vomiting everywhere. I completely freaked out. Off to the vet again, loading a hungry crying baby and a foamy dog in the car. Drop Moe off at the vet and realized I left my phone in the car and missed the call from the doctor.

I finally got the doctor to answer the phone after hitting redial 5 times. All I got was a "we screwed up - sucks to be you - I'll see if I can sorta fix it and call you back". Great. Still can't take a shower. I hose off dog poo and puke off the patio and got at least a couple hours of normalcy.

At 4pm I still hadn't heard back from the doctor so I left a message. It's Friday afternoon, guess she has better things to do. Called to check on Moe and he was ready to be picked up, although he was still very sick. I fed Everett before hurrying off to the vet again, but not before Everett exploded his diaper spilling a gallon of poo through his pants and onto my jeans. There was no time to change. Off to the vet with no shower, clothes from yesterday, baby puke on my shirt, poo on my jeans, dog spit and hair smeared on my shirt. I am one hot babe.

Got Moe home and he is one sick puppy. He puked twice (at least it was on the tile), I'm running out of towels between him and Everett. Aaron is going to be working late again - maybe I'll get to take a shower tomorrow. In the meantime, Everett has been crying for a solid 40 minutes, I'll be up all night watching Moe and I could use a break. No such luck. You're in The Mommy Club now.

Genetically Jacked

2008-09-09T12:50:00.000-07:00

Moe is a purebred Pembroke Welsh Corgi. I went to a specialty breeder, and paid a grip of money to get the very best Corgi I could for my darling husband's birthday. His parents were both champion prize winners - his father was even flown in from New Zealand for heaven's sake. So our dog is a genetically superior super dog, right?

Well...not so much. Turns out Moe is a genetic freak of nature. Literally.

Moe woke up on Monday morning and couldn't walk. The night before, Moe was at the neighbor's house playing with their dogs while Aaron and I visited. We figured he might have hurt something while overdoing it at the neighbor's house.

Off to the vet we went. Ever see a woman load a newborn baby and a 30 lb. dog that can't walk into a car? It's quite a sight. At the vet we found (after having to get freakin' expensive x-rays) that Moe has an extra vertebrae in his back. We don't call him "Extended Cab" for nothin'. The vet said it was so unusual he wanted to take the x-rays to his next vet conference. The cushioning between his vertebrae are almost wore out so when he plays hard his back gets inflamed causing too much pain for him to walk.

We're treating him with meds and he's feeling better. No more wrestling. No more running up the stairs. No more rough housing, jumping, or vigorous exercise. Poor Moe is only 1 year old. How do you tell a puppy he can't play anymore?

We're so sorry, buddy. We love you so much and can't even tell you how sad we are for you. We hope you feel better soon.

Woman of the Century

2008-09-09T12:26:00.000-07:00

Today my Great Grandma, Alta Flossie Bland turns 100 years old. They had a huge party for her in her home town of Lamar, Colorado. Grandma and I have been exchanging letters for years and I still get excited to receive her packages in the mail. You already know it's something she's crocheted for you. I've got a hutch filled with dolls made just for me and a cabinet filled with afghans in some of the oddest color combinations only my 100 year old Grandma could come up with.

I always say I come from a long line of feisty women, and my Grandma is no exception. It's pretty common to hear her talk about how her hip gave out on her so all she can do is sit and crochet. There is however a quick follow up with "...but there ain't nothin' wrong with m' mouth!"

I love listening to her talk about growing up. Back when they said they had "nothing", they really had NOTHING. Somehow they found a way to survive and make it. It always makes me realize that I don't have things so hard, quit complaining, and get to work.

So happy birthday, Grandma! I wish I could be there. I love you!

The Mommy Badge

2008-09-09T09:10:00.000-07:00

So when you have a baby, I've heard some women comment on how it was "the reason they were put on this earth" or "their greatest achievement". I can agree with those comments, but I think I will be more satisfied with those comments after I raise my son to become a productive, loving, functioning adult-not living at home.

Everett has let me know that I'm doing a good job, so far. How, you ask? He gives me a Mommy Badge on a regular basis. It's not made of metal, it's not fancy or sparkly - but it does get your attention. Usually you wear it on one shoulder or the other, but if you're as lucky as I am, you get it as a total surprise right in the middle of your shirt. I never thought about a bra having a dual purpose as a spit-up catcher. My boy can spit up what seems an entire meal worth on a regular basis. He's like a milk fountain. Forget the dinky little spit up rags...I am using my dish towels. It doesn't end up just on me. Usually before I can stem the tide he manages to get it all over his arms, clothes and rubs his face in it. Aaah...good times. I'm sure someday I'll miss this. Until then, thanks for the Mommy Badge kiddo.

0-3

2008-09-05T13:02:00.001-07:00

So Everett turned a mini milestone of 3 weeks old on Wednesday. Today I was hit with a sad dose of reality, it was a huge milestone of sorts...Everett is growing out of his newborn clothes and is fitting into his 0-3 month clothes. What? Already?

I had been given the advice from many to enjoy every moment because they grow up so fast. I took this advice to heart and have been savoring every moment with my baby boy. I know he's got to grow up, but I really didn't think it would happen quite so fast.

I've been trying to take photos of Everett so I could remember the details of when he came to us so small and perfect. I try to memorize every wrinkle of his feet, the squeaks and grunts he makes, how good he smells after a bath, his mile-long lashes, even his poop face. I know there's no way I'll remember it all, so at least I have the photos to help me.

I love you, Everett. You are my Sunshine Boy. But could you stay small for just a while longer?

Breastfeeding Etiquette

2008-08-25T10:33:00.001-07:00

OK ladies, I need some serious help here. I'm feeling great and ready to go back to church on Sunday, but to tell you the truth- I'm scared to death.

I need to know what the breastfeeding etiquette rules are at church. I have not mastered the discrete and stealth-like breastfeeding skills that I have witnessed in Nursery or in the foyer. In fact, I'm pretty clumsy. What is a newbie to do??

Our ward is so huge, there are no empty classrooms. I have not seen a Mother's Lounge that some buildings have besides, there are so many lactating women in our ward it would be like sitting in Relief Society. The Nursery room is full to capacity and with the amount of parents in there I'd have a full audience. Maybe I could just hide in the kitchen?

I'm thinking for the first couple of weeks I'll just go to Sacrament Meeting until I get the hang of things. Any advice is appreciated.

No Time For Blogging; Heaven Is A Busy Place!

2008-08-18T21:37:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday, Aaron and I got a chance to go to Heaven. I'd like to tell you a bit about it.

First of all, you have to pass a very tough test called Labor & Delivery. My test included a broken water with no contractions, pitocen, blood pressure above 200 and pain meds to try help calm the pressure down. Like all tests that come with great rewards at the end, sometimes you have to deal with unpleasant things:

I've still got needle holes and bruises all over my hands and arms from an IV and insane number of blood tests
I still have medical tape residue glued to my arms, hands and legs
I've got Tucks pads shoved into every major crevice of my "undercarriage"
Under my shirt I look like a deflated cow with stretch marks
My latest fashion statement around the house is a very unattractive nursing bra and the HUGEST pair of granny panties...ever

...And I would sign up for another round in a heartbeat.

After I passed my test, Aaron and I were admitted into Heaven and assigned an Angel. From what everyone tells us and what we've experienced, this little Angel was the very best and sweetest Heaven had that day. We feel so blessed to have gotten him.

We named him Everett Jackson Haring. He was born on August 13th, weighed 8 lbs. and was 20 inches long. We actually didn't have any names picked out when we went to the hospital because Aaron and I just didn't agree in that department. We actually brought the baby name book to the hospital and we were flipping through it as I got to hold our little Angel for the first time.

Everett's job has been to teach us all about Heaven. There's not much time to sleep or eat, I've only done my hair and makeup once in the last week. There is much to learn so Aaron and I have been very busy. So far we've:

Mastered the art of team diaper changing
Found out the important connection between getting sleep and having a baby swing
Learned when his face turns purple from screaming, he has a gas bubble
Learned that car and stroller rides knock him out
Found that Grandmas are an invaluable source of information
Learned that laughing and breastfeeding are not a good mix
"Sponge Bath" is secret code for Water Board Torture
Realized now more than ever, that Aaron and I make a great team and that Everett just might make it to his 1st birthday

Let me tell you about Everett. From the first time we met him he was very calm and quiet. He nurses like a champ, and there's no other place he'd rather be than snuggled on Aaron's chest (or my boob). Everett's got great comedic timing, like at his 1st checkup we had to wait what seemed like an eternity. He was quietly sleeping when suddenly he shrieked, pooped his pants and started crying. Of coarse, that's when the doctor finally showed up. Then he peed all over the exam table. Sure, it's funny now...He's got my nose and chin and Aaron's long eyelashes and smile. To us, he's just perfect.

Heaven looks just like our house, but some things are very different. Wonderful friends and family bring beautiful flowers, gifts and food.

We get a lot of visitors here and are excited to see everyone and introduce them to our Angel, Everett. The TV hasn't been on in days, the stereo has remained silent, and Aaron has been home from work all week. Pure Heaven.

Aaron and I have definitely bonded closer than ever thanks to our little Angel, and we love and appreciate each other more than ever. I don't know if or when we'll be back to real life so, if quite a bit of time goes by without hearing from me- you'll know where I am...in Heaven.

P.S. - We all know you don't get wings in Heaven, but what you DO get is your skinny ankles and unswollen feet returned to you (too bad it doesn't come with a tan). Welcome back girls!!!

That's What Friends Are For

2008-08-11T23:04:00.000-07:00

I seriously have the best friends and family.

Phone calls, text messages, blog messages and more. All my favorite people have been so sweet checking up on me. I feel so loved and looked after.

I've got several great references when I need brutal honesty and help knowing what to do about the most delicate of topics. What topic is that, you might ask? What am I going to need to repair the damage from giving birth? - Help!

That's where my friend Krista stepped in. She went with me to Walmart and filled up my cart. Maxi pads, tucks pads, nursing pads, Epsom salt and breast cream - my new bathroom companions. Then my awesome sis-in-law who just had a baby a few months ago gave me her unused hospital goods - more maxi pads, water proof leak mats, and the oh-so-sexy hospital gauze underwear. I am stocked up and ready to go!

And what can you do to make your swollen legs, feet and sausage toes look a little better?

A. Have your dog sit on them in the photo

B. Go with a friend to get a pedicure

Krista and I hit the town again and got pedicures today. Being that I'm 3 days overdue, she's had several ladies she's known go into labor after getting a pedicure - so why the heck not try? The nail tech even painted baby feet and 2008 on my big toes but the nail polish bled into the white baby feet, so you can't really tell what the heck are on my toes. Oh well, 5 bucks wasted. We still had fun.

Modern-Day Miracle

2008-08-09T16:32:00.000-07:00

If you'd like to see a modern-day miracle, get to my house-QUICK!

I have never had this many rooms in my house clean all at the same time. This marvel will only be around for a brief sighting. It may not be as entertaining as Grilled-Cheese Jesus, but for me it's nothing short of amazing.

8-8-08 Time's Up!!

2008-08-08T06:20:00.001-07:00

I can’t believe my due date is actually here! I know due dates are just an estimate and the odds of me giving birth today are slim and none, but it’s not because I haven’t been trying...

Aaron arranged for the carpets to get cleaned on Wednesday-very cool, except all of the furniture had to be moved. I had most of it moved before Aaron got home from work. He just had to move the couch and sub-woofer. With all of the furniture out of place it uncovered a whole herd of new dust bunnies and hair balls, so it was back to square one with cleaning. Dang it!

Yesterday I was on fire like the Energizer Bunny. I got so much done but I’m paying the price today. WHAT??? Me? Overdo it? NO WAY!!!

Here’s what I got accomplished:
20 minute power nap
10 loads of laundry washed and folded
8 storage bins moved and re-stacked
6 curtain sheers washed and re-hung
6 dining room chairs put back around the table
5 window blinds dusted
4 phone calls assuring people I wasn’t in labor
3 silk plants dusted and re-positioned
3 fancy-shmancy wall art things hung up
1 kitchen table & chairs moved back
1 sub-woofer dusted and put back in place
1 swing & bouncer washed & moved to the family room
1 ceiling fan de-fuzzed
1 giant sectional couch scooted back in place with my giant pregnant ba-donk-a-donk butt(See? It does come in handy for something)

...And I made dinner.

Aaron’s friends have all told him if we want to have this baby he needs to walk it out of me. So the last few nights after dinner Aaron and Moe take ME for a walk. Last night I made it out of our neighborhood and I could tell my back was toast. I still managed a pretty good waddle around the block, but got my rear end back on the couch as soon as we got home. Aaron was so cute, he handed me the TV remote, told me not to move and made me a chocolate milk shake. Dang, I love that boy!

What an awesome day.

The Baby Room Is Complete (...Minus The Baby)

2008-08-06T11:00:00.000-07:00

Woohoo! It's done! I am officially ready for this baby to get here. If you would have asked me last week, I would have told you that if this baby came early, it would have been on instant "time out". Now the baby room is done and the main parts of the house are clean - I am ready.

Here's a look at the baby room:

Can you believe I MADE THIS??? I have no idea how to sew, but I figured I could go in a straight line without too many mishaps. My sister, Kelle helped me put the quilt top together, and my Grandma Winters helped me tie the bumper and quilt and taught me how to put the quilt back on. I also made the valance, bed skirt, pillow and covered the ottoman to the glider. Sorry to gloat, but I am so dang proud of myself!! My mom had this TV cabinet in storage for years and thought it would work in the baby room. Thanks Mom! When we actually got the cabinet in the room, it didn't quite fit with the crib. (my math skills are not the best) With some creative arranging from my fabulous husband, he got everything to fit. The middle where the TV is supposed to go was the perfect size and height for a changing table.

Details, details, details...

So, my little Sunshine, we're as ready as we'll ever be.

We can't wait to finally meet you!

What "You Don't Have To Do Anything" Really Means

2008-08-03T00:07:00.000-07:00

So I've got 5 days until my due date. What do you think I am doing?

Resting? No.

Getting my hospital bag ready? No.

Staying up past midnight cleaning because I've got 21 people coming over tomorrow? Yes.

Aaron's friend wanted his coworker to meet my older sister to see if there could possibly be some "sparks" since they are both wanting settle down. Sounded like a great idea, 6 adults having dinner at our house. Aaron said he would take care of it and I wouldn't have to do anything. That sounded like another great idea. Well, my husband being the social butterfly that he is kept adding people to the guest list until 2 days later he informed me that we were up to 21 people (7 of them kids) and that he would be fishing a night tournament the day before so he won't be here to help me. Holy moly - are you nuts???

So in "man terms" me not having to do anything consisted of cleaning and organizing the house (thank goodness for my wonderful mother-in-law who came to help on Friday) Getting a loaded grocery cart at Costco, loading & unloading it myself, and doing all of the food prep. Aaron will have the strenuous task of getting sodas at the store and grilling the burgers. Big whoop.

I'm tired as can be, my back is shot, and I desperately need to go to bed. The good thing that came from this is that I had to kick it into high gear and got a ton done. I even finished the baby room. I'll take pictures just as soon as I can walk upright again...