Nathan's home and doing well. Earlier today, the doctor said if he took a good nap and didn't need oxygen, then they would send him home. My mom called after they left the hospital, so I guess it all worked out. It was so cute to see all the little ones reunited! They all missed Nate, and he got busy right away playing with the trains, giggling, and running around. Kids have amazing resilience don't they?
I just wanted to thank aunt Lori for coming out to help me today. She practically saved me from a nervous breakdown lol. The kids were great, but it sure was nice to have enough time to put the laundry away, get everyone down for naps, brush my teeth....simple pleasures. :) Lori even got Joshie to take a nap on the couch! Thanks Lori for all your much-needed help today. We sure enjoyed seeing you and appreciated all your help! And thanks to Stacey, for being a great listening ear, and my link to the outside world! Your love and support meant a lot to me.
I am so glad that everyone gets to be together today. We all ate dinner together tonight, and everyone was extra happy to have one another there. I feel so blessed to have such a loving, supportive family, and so blessed that Nathan is doing so well. We love our little guy, we love all our little guys and girls.
Thanks for all your love and support, and your prayers. They were definitely felt and appreciated.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
An Update on Nate...
Just thought I'd shoot a quick update while everyone is occupied. Melinda and I took Kolton, Josh, and Hallie to see Nate yesterday. (thanks Monica, Kathy, and Tara for watching the little ones!) They all had fun, and he seemed to be doing well. He looked weary, he was breathing harder than normal, but it didn't seem to bother him. It just wore him out pretty quickly. We took everyone to the playroom where they played music, painted pictures, and played with they toys. They had a grand old time. Nate wanted to come home with us, but he was too tired to put up a fight about it. We said our goodbyes, lots of hugs and kisses, and went on our merry way.
I also wanted to thank everyone for their offers to help, phone calls, etc. Thanks especially to Kathy, she has been a real lifesaver. So was Monica - thanks for letting us borrow your car seat, and for watching Micah all afternoon. And whoever it was that brought us dinner last night (Melinda arranged it), thanks - it was yummy! And thanks to Stacey, you are such a jewel. I couldn't ask for better visiting teachers than you and Denise. :)
I called my mom this morning, and Nate was doing okay. He did need some oxygen last night, and he was wheezing, so they took another chest x-ray. He did have more white instead of opaque. I'm not sure why, but that means it's worse. The nurses said that it's not uncommon for this to happen, although it doesn't happen every time. Nate did pull out the oxygen tube early this morning, and was able to maintain good levels. Everyone is just waiting for the verdict from the doctor. Come home or stay another day? Keep praying for him, we miss him and want him home.
We feel so blessed to have such wonderful people in our lives that we can count on when things get rough. Abby crying, and it's a little too quite everywhere else. I'd better go see what they're up to.......
I will post another update soon. Thanks again for all your love and support and keep Nathan in your prayers.
I also wanted to thank everyone for their offers to help, phone calls, etc. Thanks especially to Kathy, she has been a real lifesaver. So was Monica - thanks for letting us borrow your car seat, and for watching Micah all afternoon. And whoever it was that brought us dinner last night (Melinda arranged it), thanks - it was yummy! And thanks to Stacey, you are such a jewel. I couldn't ask for better visiting teachers than you and Denise. :)
I called my mom this morning, and Nate was doing okay. He did need some oxygen last night, and he was wheezing, so they took another chest x-ray. He did have more white instead of opaque. I'm not sure why, but that means it's worse. The nurses said that it's not uncommon for this to happen, although it doesn't happen every time. Nate did pull out the oxygen tube early this morning, and was able to maintain good levels. Everyone is just waiting for the verdict from the doctor. Come home or stay another day? Keep praying for him, we miss him and want him home.
We feel so blessed to have such wonderful people in our lives that we can count on when things get rough. Abby crying, and it's a little too quite everywhere else. I'd better go see what they're up to.......
I will post another update soon. Thanks again for all your love and support and keep Nathan in your prayers.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Hug Your Little Ones a Little Tighter Today
Things can happen so fast. When they do, I am always bewildered at how little control I really do have of my children's lives. I have to put my faith in my Heavenly Father, and trust him to pick up the slack where I leave off. I have to trust that he knows how hard I am trying to give them a full, happy, safe life, and that he will help me. Sometimes I have to prepare myself for the worst, and listen to my instincts, and know that I am prepared as I can be should something happen. Which is exactly what happened yesterday.....
For those of you that don't know, my mom has 4 kids under 3 (twin 2 1/2 year olds, a 2-year old, and a newborn). Life keeps you busy with that many kids. We do a lot of hanging out together to help each other out. The kids love each other and really enjoy each other. Anyway, yesterday I was walking the dog with the kids, and I got a voicemail from my mom inviting us to swim. We weren't really prepared for that, but we decided to go say hi. (My mom lives really close by.) Of course when we got there, Kolton wanted to swim so bad! Cute Jesse jumped on his scooter and grabbed my swimming bag at my house. I am always nervous to swim with so many little ones, but I figure most people have to, and there were 3 big people there in a gradual entry pool.
We had a blast. We didn't take baby Abby in the pool, of course. Micah didn't decide he wanted to get in until the last 20 minutes or so. About the same time, Nathan decided he wanted to get out because he was cold. He looked so cute sitting there on a chair, wrapped in a fuzzy warm towel. The other kiddies continued playing and we decided we should be getting out soon. Right about that time, Nate decided he wanted back in. Up until that point he'd been wearing a little suit with an inner tube in it. Nate and Josh were all over the place once they figured out they were floating. They especially liked jumping off the side and floating back up (I know, weird that a 2-year-old is that fearless of the water!). By now, Kolton had one of the tubes on, and Nate didn't want it back on. We let him in without it because we were in 2 feet of water and we were all right there huddled together.
Suddenly, Jesse yelled, "Nathan's under the water!" He was across the pool and started swimming over. My mom grabbed him and she and I jumped out while Jesse pulled the rest of the kids out. He was still alive and conscious, but he couldn't breathe. He was arching his back, trying hard to suck in a breath, but there was too much water. We were patting him hard on his back, leaning him over, hoping and praying that he would start coughing or something. I called 911. Right after I told the dispatcher what was going on, he started coughing up a lot of water, and crying. Almost right after, the sheriff arrived, and he helped us with him until the paramedics arrived. They got there and got right to work, taking his vitals and everything. It seemed like for awhile he would be fine one minute, and really scary not fine the next. Shortly after the paramedics arrived, Nate got really lethargic and it was a struggle for my mom to keep him awake. Jesse and I worked on getting the other babies strapped in their stroller, and I called my dad, Wes, and Melinda. My poor mom was trying so hard to keep him awake. They were giving him oxygen, but I don't think his levels were at what they wanted them. Combine that with him struggling so hard to stay awake, the crowds of people gathering around, and the paramedics decided to call Life Flight and get him to Primary's. So I called my dad back and told him to turn around and head that way. The cute neighbors were all over the place helping out. One of them, Karen White, heard we were trying to get Nate a blessing before he left (they said they wouldn't wait after the helicopter arrived) ran and grabbed her husband and another neighbor and they gave him a blessing with oil. Wes got there right after, and so did the helicopter. They had to wait a few minutes to stabilize him before they could move him. Then they were off. I drove my mom home so she could quickly throw some clothes on (we were in swimsuits) and get her car. She told me that she felt that everything would be all right. That was really comforting to me, because I have never, ever met anyone more spiritually in tune than my mom. She always listens, always obeys, and is always right.
The paramedics and police were amazing also. I want to thank them for helping save my brother, and for their knowledge and sensitivity, and expertise. They are rockstars!
Also, I thought I would point out that Jesse probably saved his life. He saw Nate and alerted everyone to the situation. I don't think he understands the magnitude of what he did for him.
Anyway, my mom took off, and Wes, Jesse, and Karen helped me get all the babies to our house. Melinda arrived shortly after and we got to work feeding them, changing them, and getting them ready for bed. Melinda took them home and put them down. What a champ! She took baby Abby last night, and was up with her every 3 hours last night.
My mom called and gave everyone a good update. He was in the PICU. At 1AM I got a text from my dad saying they moved him into pediatrics. Yeah! This morning he's one 1/2 unit of oxygen - he was on 10 units yesterday. I won't go into all the medical details, but he's doing well considering, and we all feel very blessed. Our prayers are being answered.
It's amazing to me that when something like this happens, how everyone rallies together. My phone keeps ringing with people offering to help babysit, bring meals, and do whatever else they can do to help. I think it's incredible how you can actually feel people's prayers. It is amazing.
Anyway, I checked on my boys a few extra times last night when I got home. (They look like little angels when they are asleep.) I silently thanked the Lord for blessing us so much. Our boys are safe, our whole family is safe, Nathan is doing well, and we have countless people praying and helping in every way imaginable. My heart is just so full of relief and gratitude, and I am just so overwhelmed with the fact that it happened so fast, while we were right there, and that it could have been so much worse. I want to thank my Heavenly Father for watching over Nate, and watching over the rest of us, and guiding us with the spirit. I am so grateful for his grace and presence in my life every single day.
I will post updates as soon as I can, but I will be heading over to my parents' soon and they have no internet connection yet. At this point it's looking like he'll at least be there a good part of today, and probably into tomorrow. We will see.
So give your kids a squeeze and give thanks for them today. Say a prayer in your heart for Nathan, because they are working a miracle right now.
For those of you that don't know, my mom has 4 kids under 3 (twin 2 1/2 year olds, a 2-year old, and a newborn). Life keeps you busy with that many kids. We do a lot of hanging out together to help each other out. The kids love each other and really enjoy each other. Anyway, yesterday I was walking the dog with the kids, and I got a voicemail from my mom inviting us to swim. We weren't really prepared for that, but we decided to go say hi. (My mom lives really close by.) Of course when we got there, Kolton wanted to swim so bad! Cute Jesse jumped on his scooter and grabbed my swimming bag at my house. I am always nervous to swim with so many little ones, but I figure most people have to, and there were 3 big people there in a gradual entry pool.
We had a blast. We didn't take baby Abby in the pool, of course. Micah didn't decide he wanted to get in until the last 20 minutes or so. About the same time, Nathan decided he wanted to get out because he was cold. He looked so cute sitting there on a chair, wrapped in a fuzzy warm towel. The other kiddies continued playing and we decided we should be getting out soon. Right about that time, Nate decided he wanted back in. Up until that point he'd been wearing a little suit with an inner tube in it. Nate and Josh were all over the place once they figured out they were floating. They especially liked jumping off the side and floating back up (I know, weird that a 2-year-old is that fearless of the water!). By now, Kolton had one of the tubes on, and Nate didn't want it back on. We let him in without it because we were in 2 feet of water and we were all right there huddled together.
Suddenly, Jesse yelled, "Nathan's under the water!" He was across the pool and started swimming over. My mom grabbed him and she and I jumped out while Jesse pulled the rest of the kids out. He was still alive and conscious, but he couldn't breathe. He was arching his back, trying hard to suck in a breath, but there was too much water. We were patting him hard on his back, leaning him over, hoping and praying that he would start coughing or something. I called 911. Right after I told the dispatcher what was going on, he started coughing up a lot of water, and crying. Almost right after, the sheriff arrived, and he helped us with him until the paramedics arrived. They got there and got right to work, taking his vitals and everything. It seemed like for awhile he would be fine one minute, and really scary not fine the next. Shortly after the paramedics arrived, Nate got really lethargic and it was a struggle for my mom to keep him awake. Jesse and I worked on getting the other babies strapped in their stroller, and I called my dad, Wes, and Melinda. My poor mom was trying so hard to keep him awake. They were giving him oxygen, but I don't think his levels were at what they wanted them. Combine that with him struggling so hard to stay awake, the crowds of people gathering around, and the paramedics decided to call Life Flight and get him to Primary's. So I called my dad back and told him to turn around and head that way. The cute neighbors were all over the place helping out. One of them, Karen White, heard we were trying to get Nate a blessing before he left (they said they wouldn't wait after the helicopter arrived) ran and grabbed her husband and another neighbor and they gave him a blessing with oil. Wes got there right after, and so did the helicopter. They had to wait a few minutes to stabilize him before they could move him. Then they were off. I drove my mom home so she could quickly throw some clothes on (we were in swimsuits) and get her car. She told me that she felt that everything would be all right. That was really comforting to me, because I have never, ever met anyone more spiritually in tune than my mom. She always listens, always obeys, and is always right.
The paramedics and police were amazing also. I want to thank them for helping save my brother, and for their knowledge and sensitivity, and expertise. They are rockstars!
Also, I thought I would point out that Jesse probably saved his life. He saw Nate and alerted everyone to the situation. I don't think he understands the magnitude of what he did for him.
Anyway, my mom took off, and Wes, Jesse, and Karen helped me get all the babies to our house. Melinda arrived shortly after and we got to work feeding them, changing them, and getting them ready for bed. Melinda took them home and put them down. What a champ! She took baby Abby last night, and was up with her every 3 hours last night.
My mom called and gave everyone a good update. He was in the PICU. At 1AM I got a text from my dad saying they moved him into pediatrics. Yeah! This morning he's one 1/2 unit of oxygen - he was on 10 units yesterday. I won't go into all the medical details, but he's doing well considering, and we all feel very blessed. Our prayers are being answered.
It's amazing to me that when something like this happens, how everyone rallies together. My phone keeps ringing with people offering to help babysit, bring meals, and do whatever else they can do to help. I think it's incredible how you can actually feel people's prayers. It is amazing.
Anyway, I checked on my boys a few extra times last night when I got home. (They look like little angels when they are asleep.) I silently thanked the Lord for blessing us so much. Our boys are safe, our whole family is safe, Nathan is doing well, and we have countless people praying and helping in every way imaginable. My heart is just so full of relief and gratitude, and I am just so overwhelmed with the fact that it happened so fast, while we were right there, and that it could have been so much worse. I want to thank my Heavenly Father for watching over Nate, and watching over the rest of us, and guiding us with the spirit. I am so grateful for his grace and presence in my life every single day.
I will post updates as soon as I can, but I will be heading over to my parents' soon and they have no internet connection yet. At this point it's looking like he'll at least be there a good part of today, and probably into tomorrow. We will see.
So give your kids a squeeze and give thanks for them today. Say a prayer in your heart for Nathan, because they are working a miracle right now.
Monday, August 25, 2008
What a good workout!
This morning Wes and I had our resistance training. I can feel myself getting stronger every time, which is really cool. but today was awesome because I really kicked butt! We did one-legged squats. This brought back memories of figure skating days. (Can anyone say sitspin?) Anyway, right before that we had done some squat jumps, so our legs were burning. Wes did a couple, then he did the modified way of doing them down to the bench or something (I wasn't watching, too busy working out.) But I decided to go all the way. 3 sets of 5 per leg doesn't sound like much. But I dare you. Try and you will see that it is. Anyway, I found a motivating picture online of a very fit person, and I think about it whenever I feel like quitting early. It gives me tons of extra oomph! Anyway, I did all the sets the hard way. I had to rest a couple times during the last set, and it was hard to walk up the stairs afterward, but I did it! I was so proud of myself, I just had to share! I am going to be a buff woman!
DIE SQUASH BUGS!!!
Okay, I have been really patient and easygoing. I have been diligent. I have moved with the cheese. But over the weekend these nasty little bugs ate one of my cantaloupes, and started on the pumpkins! They are officially all over the garden. I have sprayed, I have squashed, I have picked off leaves and eggs.....I have called and e-mailed anyone I could think about. The Utah County extension, Square Foot Gardening, various master gardeners, nurseries, and my online group. I am told I must have a neighbor somewhere that has them that isn't spraying. I can't think of anyone close by. I am still convinced that it's from the next door neighbors finishing their backyard. The timing is just too coincidental for me. I am hoping for that, because if someone has them and is not treating their garden for them then I am doomed to get them every year until they do! I went out this morning and did everything all over, with a new bug killer (just on the squash), and I finally broke down and fertilized these poor plants. They are just shriveling up! It makes me so mad! I had this beautiful, lush, full garden a month ago. Now my poor squash looks absolutely deathly! I am hoping and praying that this will work. I already pulled out my watermelon and butternut squash plants because they were so far gone. My dream of a harvest all winter long is beginning to fade......
At least I love the fall crops. The spinach, lettuce, peas, carrots, tomatoes, chard......they have been my very favorites. Maybe I will research overwintering onions and potatoes. My corn is coming in, too. I have learned a lot this year from gardening. It's not as hard as I thought. Next year I won't have to put in the boxes, I know what I like, and I know how much of everything I need. I will be able to plant in February, and that will be nice. Next year, those darn squash bugs won't have a chance! I'm going to knock 'em dead! In the meantime, this year, I hope I can salvage what's left of the once beautiful squash plants. Die squash bugs!
At least I love the fall crops. The spinach, lettuce, peas, carrots, tomatoes, chard......they have been my very favorites. Maybe I will research overwintering onions and potatoes. My corn is coming in, too. I have learned a lot this year from gardening. It's not as hard as I thought. Next year I won't have to put in the boxes, I know what I like, and I know how much of everything I need. I will be able to plant in February, and that will be nice. Next year, those darn squash bugs won't have a chance! I'm going to knock 'em dead! In the meantime, this year, I hope I can salvage what's left of the once beautiful squash plants. Die squash bugs!
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Amazing Frisbee Dogs
I have been wanting to try freestyle frisbee with a dog ever since I saw it on TV a few years ago. Not competitively, just for fun. Anyway, I haven't been able to locate a club, or even a person who does it, or is interested in it. Until now. thanks to Youtube, I found Zak George. I can't figure out how to post the video on here (if anyone want to let me in on that one, please do.), so here is a link to one of his videos: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyxsA6nHMno He even has his own channel on Youtube. He has lots of videos from how to teach you dog to play frisbee, to how to teach your dog certain tricks such as rolling over, limping, jumping over you, etc. The videos are very informative and inspiring. Zak and his dogs are amazing! I am excited to try it someday.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Rock Climbing Again....Finally!
Wes and I finally got to go climbing today! This was the first time I've gone since I had kids, and the third time since we've been married (once on our honeymoon, once when I was pregnant with Kolton, and today) which is really sad because it was such a big part of my life before. I went 2 or 3 times a week before we got married, and I took a climbing class for a credit for my major for my one and only semester in college. I joined The Quarry for awhile and got really into bouldering too (I actually like that even better than climbing). Anyway, we went up to Red Rock in South Mountain, and it was so much fun! It's so beautiful up there, you can see the mountains, the golf course, and the whole valley. Climbing at sunset is my very favorite, it's so breathtaking! Tonight was no exception. I had a bit of a rocky start - I learned very quickly how much hand strength I have lost, as well as how little I trust myself physically right now. Top it all of by being majorly competitive with myself and a big-time perfectionist physically and you get a very frustrated girl. I made it up a 5.6 slowly, but without help from my sexy belayer. I was happy I did it on my own, but very bummed that a 5.6 was so difficult. In addition, I ran into an old friend while we were climbing. She came up with her brothers shortly after we started. It was fun to see her, but a little embarrassing to be so rusty (and chubby). We got talking and found out that she is living in Pleasant Grove, her and her hubby built a bouldering wall in their garage, and she knows the good climbs in American Fork canyon inside and out. It was fun to see her and catch up a bit, and even more fun to find a climbing buddy! After we chatted a bit, I belayed Wes while he climbed a 5.9 (easy for him of course). It was getting to be sunset, but I wanted another go, so I decided to try the 5.9 despite my performance on the 5.6. I was glad I did. It was still hard, my hands were so fatigued and raw that I had to let go a couple of times. But I honestly think if there was time, I could go up again without help. So, despite the imperfection of the second climb, I was very satisfied, and I definitely caught the climbing bug. (If anyone ever wants to give it a go, I know of some fun and easy spots.) It was fun to go with Wes too. I love watching him climb. He makes it look so easy. I also always enjoy hiking up to the wall together. It's always so beautiful and a good time to talk and think.
What a great reward for working so hard at improving my health these past few weeks. I haven't missed a workout yet, and I have LOVED working out with my sweetheart. I would like to do some running as well, so if anyone wants to go with me please let me know. (Wes and I only warm up and then do sprints.) I am also toying with joining the Quarry for a once a week early morning climbing hour. We'll see.
I feel so much stronger and happier when I'm taking care of myself. The eating has been better this time around too, I think because Wes is doing it with me, and because I have less stress in my life, and I am planning on eating this way forever. I really could too. I will probably be at the beach in California mid-October, so I'm hoping to be done or close to it by then. I think I will be.
I forgot how passionate I was about climbing and volleyball. I'm glad that I've had a chance to remember this week. I am hoping to play in a 2 on 2 volleyball tournament with Wes in a few weeks, which will be way overdue and really fun. I'm glad we share a love for sports and the outdoors. I can't wait until our kids are old enough to join in on the fun.
Anyway, it's official. I am addicted to climbing once again! I am dirty, a little sore, and definitely craving more!
What a great reward for working so hard at improving my health these past few weeks. I haven't missed a workout yet, and I have LOVED working out with my sweetheart. I would like to do some running as well, so if anyone wants to go with me please let me know. (Wes and I only warm up and then do sprints.) I am also toying with joining the Quarry for a once a week early morning climbing hour. We'll see.
I feel so much stronger and happier when I'm taking care of myself. The eating has been better this time around too, I think because Wes is doing it with me, and because I have less stress in my life, and I am planning on eating this way forever. I really could too. I will probably be at the beach in California mid-October, so I'm hoping to be done or close to it by then. I think I will be.
I forgot how passionate I was about climbing and volleyball. I'm glad that I've had a chance to remember this week. I am hoping to play in a 2 on 2 volleyball tournament with Wes in a few weeks, which will be way overdue and really fun. I'm glad we share a love for sports and the outdoors. I can't wait until our kids are old enough to join in on the fun.
Anyway, it's official. I am addicted to climbing once again! I am dirty, a little sore, and definitely craving more!
Friday, August 22, 2008
Congrats Beach Volleyballers!!!!!!
We are so excited for both USA teams that took home the gold in Beach Volleyball! We don't have TV here, so we haven't been able to watch most of the Olympics this time around. (It's been sad to miss so much! I think maybe next time we will temporarily get TV. We LOVE the Olympics!) But the one thing we haven't missed: beach volleyball, expecially Rogers/Dalhausser. We love these guys! Their quiet intensity on the court is amazing. They keep their cool so well, and they play together wonderfully. They are so much fun to watch. In case you didn't know already, volleyball is a big deal at our house. Wes and I both play, and Wes has 1 brother playing for BYU, and one former BYU player brother that is now living in Huntington Beach trying to get into the AVP. We are so proud of them both! Needless to say, volleyball is a big part of our lives. Last night, we dragged the kiddies to our friends the Riries' house (Kenny is Wes's v-ball partner) and lept them up until 11:15PM so we could watch the gold medal match. It was so very frustration to watch in the beginning, but in they end they stuffed Brazil so good that it was well worth it! Congrats Beach Volleyballers!! We love you!
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Whew!
Another crazy week is over....almost. I was so busy this week that I woke up sick this morning. So not fun. Saturday night Wes's dad called to tell us Wes's grandma Bonnye died. Sunday night my mom called and said they were moving this weekend. Before all that, Wes and I decided to try a workout/nutrition program we found online. Also, my chickens got out and had a LOT of fun in my veggie garden. But since they are laying eggs now, and they probably got out to eat all the SQUASH BUGS that have attacked ALL of my squash plants....I forgave them for killing most of my beans and edamame. I did get a few survivors, and the squash is beginning to bounce back. I hate garden bugs. They are very selfish, and ignore all the hard work I do to grow food for my family. Oh, and another thing that happened due to extreme business: potty training regression. Kolton will still go, but he doesn't ever tell me he needs to go anymore. He's having too much fun with the other 4 toddlers at my house this week. He's starting to do a little better. but I think it's going to take a little longer to get him to the point he was at when we left for Bear Lake.
Anyway, they did a viewing and a graveside service for Bonnye Stewart on Wednesday. It was very sweet. It's amazing how it's so much more sweet when an older person dies. Everyone is happy. Happy that they are free from their health problems (in this case, Alzheimer's), and that they get to move on and be with their spouse, or other deceased family. Anyway, it was very sweet, and fun to hear a little about her. She was already pretty far gone when Wes and I met. But very cheerful and sweet. While we were at the cemetery, we payed a visit to President Hinckley's grave, which wasn't too far from when Wes's grandparents are buried. It was neat. It was a beautiful day. After the services, we all went to the Spaghetti factory for lunch. It was fun to see everyone, even though Micah threw everything he could get his hands on and ruined his church shirt. It was fun to see and be with family. That side of Wes's family doesn't get together very often, so it was fun to see/meet family. Wes decided to take the rest of the day off, since we didn't get home until about 3:00. We put the boys down for much needed naps, and Wes got one too. I got to do some much-needed grocery shopping. Ugh. But it definitely paid off to do that while I've had the kiddies here all week. (Unfortunately, it's time to go again!)
Sunday night, my mom called and said they were moving this Friday/Saturday. My mom is so crazy! I don't know how she works so well under pressure, but she really pulled it all off. They even slept at the new house night. Anyway, I spent Monday helping my mom pack. We both decided that it would be more help for me to remove the toddlers from the chaos and let everyone else pack. So Tuesday, Thursday, yesterday, and today I watched them. Wednesday was the funeral, and my mom was busy doing other things, so I don't think she packed much that day.
It was fun having the babies here. I had to resolve to just let my house get trashed, and only pick up what I needed to, because they were just going to come back and do it all again the next day. I think it went so much better because of the fact that I decided not to do anything else. I had them in the morning, we all played, fed them lunch, played some more, and then took them home for naps at their house. My mom pretty much kept them home after that. I could take my kids home and put them down, and clean up the disasters, fix what was broken, feed the animals, water the garden, and make dinner just in time for Wes to get home. Although, yesterday the cribs got put in the moving truck, so nobody got naps, and I had them pretty much until dinner. We all headed over to the new house and had some takeout. Then we eventually all headed to bed. They'll probably be here any minute today, but it's a quick day again. Even though is was busy, and hard, and wearing on my patience, it was so fun to just sit and play with them all day, every day this week. Nathan, Josh, and Hallie think it;s their new thing to go to Kolton's house after they wake up. They are so cute! Even though I'm exhausted, I'm kinda sad it's over. It's so fun watching them. They are all so lucky to have each other. I think I want to start taking them all like that a couple times a month. We had so much fun. And the hot new toy for them right now: bristle blocks. I pulled them out right before I pulled me hair out every day, and it SAVED me! They absolutely loved them. I spent hours making people, helicopters, airplanes, cars, trucks, pizzas, and whatever else they could think of. They also loved the train, but the battery finally gave out yesterday, and I forgot to charge it back up last night due to extreme exhaustion. I think today I'm going to show them the baby bunnies, and take them outside to pick tomatoes with me. Joshie loved that yesterday. They also are in the Brite music phase now, and we listened to "Land of Obey" and "See Me Run" for hours while they ran, shipped, hopped, and whirled all over the house. My house was full of giggles. I wish I could've videotaped some of the things they were doing, but I just needed a couple more hands to do that. I might attempt that today.
Wes's friend and volleyball partner, Kenny, called Wes Tuesday night, and he went over and watched the USA Olympic volleyball team (Rogers/Dalhauser) play their second match. Kenny had Tivo'd it from earlier that day. I was sad I missed it, but glad he got to go. We sure love volleyball in this family. It's the best sport. I wish I could play more, especially with Wes. Maybe once this year would be enough. Next year will be easier, unless I'm pregnant. I guess we'll see....
We have been working out together in the meantime, and that's been wonderful. Some days it's the only time we are able to spend together, and it's fun watching him work out, and I definitely work harder know he's there to save me if I get stuck under some weights lol. You'll have to keep your eyes on us for the next 8 weeks. We are going to get buff. It has actually been a great program, and not too time-consuming. Once I get over the "2-week-workout-hump" I will be better. (For the first 2 weeks of working out, I always am exhausted. But after that's over, I feel energized. The best part is, I need only about 6 1/2 hours of sleep when I work out consistently. I get so much more done!)
Also, I just wanted to thank my Heavenly Father for being with me this week. It was really hard, but I felt a quiet strength I only ever feel when I know he is there helping me through something hard. I prayed, not so reverently most of the time, but very hard and very often this week. I feel so much comfort in knowing he is there for me, whenever I need him, and that he loves me. I feel so very blessed to have had the gospel in my whole life, and to now be able to raise my kids with it. I don't know how I got so lucky, but I am sure glad I did. This week, I have been reading a cute book called "Toss the Guilt and Catch the Joy" and it's been wonderful. The author at one point talks about how she set a goal to read her scriptures every single day, and as long as she read at least one verse, she wouldn't feel guilty if one verse was all she read. To make a long story short, she achieved her goal, but not without help from the spirit waking her up one night and reminding her she hadn't read. She quickly popped up and read her one verse, thanking the Lord for helping her remember. I liked that story, and decided that was my new goal. Of course I've read more than a verse most days, but some days that's all you can do. Life is just crazy most of the time, and you have to adapt your life to your own situation. I really don't think people, especially women, do that enough.
Anyway, before I go, I swiped another picture of baby Abby at the hospital. This is so sweet, and makes me excited for when we have our next baby. (hopefully when both the boys are potty trained.) I'll have 2 little helpers.
Awwwwww....isn't this adorable?! I just love my boys, and I also love babies!
PS - Micah's finally been talking his first little steps this week. He's also been saying talking a little more. I'm so proud of my little boy!
Anyway, they did a viewing and a graveside service for Bonnye Stewart on Wednesday. It was very sweet. It's amazing how it's so much more sweet when an older person dies. Everyone is happy. Happy that they are free from their health problems (in this case, Alzheimer's), and that they get to move on and be with their spouse, or other deceased family. Anyway, it was very sweet, and fun to hear a little about her. She was already pretty far gone when Wes and I met. But very cheerful and sweet. While we were at the cemetery, we payed a visit to President Hinckley's grave, which wasn't too far from when Wes's grandparents are buried. It was neat. It was a beautiful day. After the services, we all went to the Spaghetti factory for lunch. It was fun to see everyone, even though Micah threw everything he could get his hands on and ruined his church shirt. It was fun to see and be with family. That side of Wes's family doesn't get together very often, so it was fun to see/meet family. Wes decided to take the rest of the day off, since we didn't get home until about 3:00. We put the boys down for much needed naps, and Wes got one too. I got to do some much-needed grocery shopping. Ugh. But it definitely paid off to do that while I've had the kiddies here all week. (Unfortunately, it's time to go again!)
Sunday night, my mom called and said they were moving this Friday/Saturday. My mom is so crazy! I don't know how she works so well under pressure, but she really pulled it all off. They even slept at the new house night. Anyway, I spent Monday helping my mom pack. We both decided that it would be more help for me to remove the toddlers from the chaos and let everyone else pack. So Tuesday, Thursday, yesterday, and today I watched them. Wednesday was the funeral, and my mom was busy doing other things, so I don't think she packed much that day.
It was fun having the babies here. I had to resolve to just let my house get trashed, and only pick up what I needed to, because they were just going to come back and do it all again the next day. I think it went so much better because of the fact that I decided not to do anything else. I had them in the morning, we all played, fed them lunch, played some more, and then took them home for naps at their house. My mom pretty much kept them home after that. I could take my kids home and put them down, and clean up the disasters, fix what was broken, feed the animals, water the garden, and make dinner just in time for Wes to get home. Although, yesterday the cribs got put in the moving truck, so nobody got naps, and I had them pretty much until dinner. We all headed over to the new house and had some takeout. Then we eventually all headed to bed. They'll probably be here any minute today, but it's a quick day again. Even though is was busy, and hard, and wearing on my patience, it was so fun to just sit and play with them all day, every day this week. Nathan, Josh, and Hallie think it;s their new thing to go to Kolton's house after they wake up. They are so cute! Even though I'm exhausted, I'm kinda sad it's over. It's so fun watching them. They are all so lucky to have each other. I think I want to start taking them all like that a couple times a month. We had so much fun. And the hot new toy for them right now: bristle blocks. I pulled them out right before I pulled me hair out every day, and it SAVED me! They absolutely loved them. I spent hours making people, helicopters, airplanes, cars, trucks, pizzas, and whatever else they could think of. They also loved the train, but the battery finally gave out yesterday, and I forgot to charge it back up last night due to extreme exhaustion. I think today I'm going to show them the baby bunnies, and take them outside to pick tomatoes with me. Joshie loved that yesterday. They also are in the Brite music phase now, and we listened to "Land of Obey" and "See Me Run" for hours while they ran, shipped, hopped, and whirled all over the house. My house was full of giggles. I wish I could've videotaped some of the things they were doing, but I just needed a couple more hands to do that. I might attempt that today.
Wes's friend and volleyball partner, Kenny, called Wes Tuesday night, and he went over and watched the USA Olympic volleyball team (Rogers/Dalhauser) play their second match. Kenny had Tivo'd it from earlier that day. I was sad I missed it, but glad he got to go. We sure love volleyball in this family. It's the best sport. I wish I could play more, especially with Wes. Maybe once this year would be enough. Next year will be easier, unless I'm pregnant. I guess we'll see....
We have been working out together in the meantime, and that's been wonderful. Some days it's the only time we are able to spend together, and it's fun watching him work out, and I definitely work harder know he's there to save me if I get stuck under some weights lol. You'll have to keep your eyes on us for the next 8 weeks. We are going to get buff. It has actually been a great program, and not too time-consuming. Once I get over the "2-week-workout-hump" I will be better. (For the first 2 weeks of working out, I always am exhausted. But after that's over, I feel energized. The best part is, I need only about 6 1/2 hours of sleep when I work out consistently. I get so much more done!)
Also, I just wanted to thank my Heavenly Father for being with me this week. It was really hard, but I felt a quiet strength I only ever feel when I know he is there helping me through something hard. I prayed, not so reverently most of the time, but very hard and very often this week. I feel so much comfort in knowing he is there for me, whenever I need him, and that he loves me. I feel so very blessed to have had the gospel in my whole life, and to now be able to raise my kids with it. I don't know how I got so lucky, but I am sure glad I did. This week, I have been reading a cute book called "Toss the Guilt and Catch the Joy" and it's been wonderful. The author at one point talks about how she set a goal to read her scriptures every single day, and as long as she read at least one verse, she wouldn't feel guilty if one verse was all she read. To make a long story short, she achieved her goal, but not without help from the spirit waking her up one night and reminding her she hadn't read. She quickly popped up and read her one verse, thanking the Lord for helping her remember. I liked that story, and decided that was my new goal. Of course I've read more than a verse most days, but some days that's all you can do. Life is just crazy most of the time, and you have to adapt your life to your own situation. I really don't think people, especially women, do that enough.
Anyway, before I go, I swiped another picture of baby Abby at the hospital. This is so sweet, and makes me excited for when we have our next baby. (hopefully when both the boys are potty trained.) I'll have 2 little helpers.
Awwwwww....isn't this adorable?! I just love my boys, and I also love babies!
PS - Micah's finally been talking his first little steps this week. He's also been saying talking a little more. I'm so proud of my little boy!
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Other Things to Mention
There have been a ton of things going on lately, and it seems like that's everyone's story. Maybe it just the way summer is. Anyway, a couple of other things that happened that have been occupying my time are....
It was fun to get out as girls, and the book was great. I really like the way things turned out in the end, although I wish the ending lasted just a bit longer than it did. All in all, a fun book to read, and it's fun to know so many other people love it too.
Last the best, Wes and I celebrated our 4th wedding anniversary this Monday. Wes had to work, so I got busy with my gift to him. I made him a fire pit on our backyard, and I found something to hang his hammock on. Ever since we were dating, we've always loved snuggling up in his hammock, under the stars, and talking. We haven't been able to enjoy that since we moved back to Utah. Now we can. He was so excited for his presents, and they've been very well used already! Wes came home early and surprised me with flowers, a babysitter and a date to go to Five All's. We were so excited. We got to the door at Five All's and it wouldn't open. FYI, they are closed on Mondays. It was time for plan B. We decided to go to The Roof since we hadn't been there either. It was delicious. We both loved the Creme Brule best of all. Everything was good, the service was great, and the vies was spectacular. We loved the live piano music too. After dinner, we decide to walk it off at Temple Square. When we got back to the lobby, there was a cute little grandma rockin' out while playing some ragtime tunes on the piano. She was adorable! We shared a few laughs while we watched her play, and then we went outside and walked around the grounds. It was fun being back at the very spot we had our wedding on our anniversary. I couldn't think of a better time to do that.
I love my husband more than words can say. I can never give him enough hugs, kisses, or happiness. He brings so many wonderful things in my life, and sets such and amazing Christlike example for me. He is an incredible husband and father, and I still wake up every day pinching myself. I don't know how I got so lucky, and I will work hard forever to give him the eternity of happiness he deserves, and has given me. Wes, my husband, my best friend, my love, you will forever be my everything, and I will be yours. Thank you for sharing the 4 most amazing, joyful years I could ever ask for. I can't wait to see what's in store for us this year! I love you!
Baby Abby. Isn't she a doll?! She was 6 lbs. 13 oz. and 18 1/2 inches. We went to visit everyone in the hospital, babies and all. It was so beyond cute to see all the babies fall in love with Abby. They all took turns holding her, singing to her, and "helping" her. She is gorgeous. She doesn't look much like any of the other babies, she's got her own little look, but she's definitely equally beautiful. Due to extreme toddler chasing and my camera battery dying, once again, no pictures. I copied this one from Melinda's facebook. Anyway, the day she was delivered, I babysat everyone, and Jesse helped. What a big help he was! He's such an amazing kid! I am in awe of what a good person he is every day. Anyway, we had the babies all day that day, and the day everyone came home from the hospital. It wore me out! I can't even imagine how tired my mom is right now! But what a blessing she is to our family. She sure makes me baby hungry (crazy, I know). The part that made me the most excited for our next baby has been seeing how much all the babies love Abby. I think when Micah is Kolton's age, it will be a perfect time for us to add to our family. How much fun would that be?! Babies are so much fun, and those tiny baby moments are so fleeting, it leaves me coming back for more and more.
Another thing that's kept me busy lately has been reading. A bunch of women in my neighborhood got together the night of the "Breaking Dawn" release and got the book at midnight. Crazy I know, but it was fun. Here's a picture of us leaving Mimi's Cafe, on our way to join the festivities at Barnes and Noble.
It was fun to get out as girls, and the book was great. I really like the way things turned out in the end, although I wish the ending lasted just a bit longer than it did. All in all, a fun book to read, and it's fun to know so many other people love it too.Last the best, Wes and I celebrated our 4th wedding anniversary this Monday. Wes had to work, so I got busy with my gift to him. I made him a fire pit on our backyard, and I found something to hang his hammock on. Ever since we were dating, we've always loved snuggling up in his hammock, under the stars, and talking. We haven't been able to enjoy that since we moved back to Utah. Now we can. He was so excited for his presents, and they've been very well used already! Wes came home early and surprised me with flowers, a babysitter and a date to go to Five All's. We were so excited. We got to the door at Five All's and it wouldn't open. FYI, they are closed on Mondays. It was time for plan B. We decided to go to The Roof since we hadn't been there either. It was delicious. We both loved the Creme Brule best of all. Everything was good, the service was great, and the vies was spectacular. We loved the live piano music too. After dinner, we decide to walk it off at Temple Square. When we got back to the lobby, there was a cute little grandma rockin' out while playing some ragtime tunes on the piano. She was adorable! We shared a few laughs while we watched her play, and then we went outside and walked around the grounds. It was fun being back at the very spot we had our wedding on our anniversary. I couldn't think of a better time to do that.
I love my husband more than words can say. I can never give him enough hugs, kisses, or happiness. He brings so many wonderful things in my life, and sets such and amazing Christlike example for me. He is an incredible husband and father, and I still wake up every day pinching myself. I don't know how I got so lucky, and I will work hard forever to give him the eternity of happiness he deserves, and has given me. Wes, my husband, my best friend, my love, you will forever be my everything, and I will be yours. Thank you for sharing the 4 most amazing, joyful years I could ever ask for. I can't wait to see what's in store for us this year! I love you!
The Rest of the Story....
So...Bear Lake turned out okay after all. Better than okay, actually. I got some much-needed rest at home, and the boys slept practically all of Monday and Tuesday until we left on Tuesday afternoon to head back up. We got up there, visited, and went to the pool. Micah hated to pool, but Kolton loved it! Kolton, Nate, Josh, and Hallie all took turns jumping off of the side of the kiddie pool. It was adorable. There's not too many things more adorable than wet babies giggling.
Here is the best picture I could get of Kolton at the beach. He was all over the place, and I was either wet, covered in sand, or chasing him the entire time, so I'm counting on my mom to have better pictures. He LOVE, LOVE, LOVED the beach! He played in the sand, the water, stole a kayak, rode the jet ski, the boat (on which he begged to go tubing, but that didn't ride well with me!), but his very favorite thing of all was chasing and feeding the seagulls. He loved the whole shebang. I am so glad he shares my passion for the beach, and all it has to offer.
Thursday, Wes decided he wanted to spend the holiday up at Bear Lake with us, instead of us driving home to him. Melinda came up with him too. It was so much fun having them there, especially at the beach. Micah immediately got to work eating the sand (his favorite beach activity), so Wes took him in the water for a bit while I got busy making all the other babies "sand shoes" which occupied most of my afternoon until we stole away a couple of hours on Layne and Fay's boat (thanks again, guys!). Wes was ecstatic to go wakeboarding and wakesurfing. I really want to own a boat someday now. I caught the "boat vision" and how it creates so many fond memories and so much family time. Kolton and Micah loved it and fell asleep on it. It was an absolutely gorgeous day, and I can't think of a better way to celebrate the holiday and spend time together as a family. I am so grateful to my grandparents for starting and upholding such a special, strong family tradition. Bear Lake will always hold a special place in my heart. It's a little slice of heaven on earth.
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