The Roberts

'Freeze'

2012-01-18T22:09:00.000-08:00

You might think my "Title" is referring to the weather, as much as I am so glad that winter has decided to make an appearance (only to get it over with not because I love it), it has nothing to do with that. Today was extrodinary, I managed to get a million things done (without a husband, busy guy) carting around the gang, and still managing to stay incredibly patient. I love those days! Mother's need a gold star for days like that, and guess what? Kids went down beautifully, and Jack is arriving home tonight an entire day earlier than planned, (long sigh here) don't you love those days? Interestingly I did not sleep a wink last night, which usually would result in a bad day, but I woke up or rather stopped staring into oblivion and got out of bed with an amazing amount of energy and determination. For me today was all about wanting to "Freeze my good mood", to "Freeze my awesomeness(duh)", and most of all "Freeze my kids". The first "Freeze" was picking Everett up from school. As I got out of the car and walked down the sidewalk he bolted from his classmates and says "Hi Mom! I like your scarf!". The sweetest ever. The second being that Harry now puts on his seat belt but after only a week of performing this task he is starting to get lazy and not want to. So, I have tried playing games with it like "Don't put on your seat belt! Don't you dare!!" my kids love doing the opposite of what I say so I use this to my advantage. Well today, I finally say "Okay, Harry if you don't put your seat belt on I will have to spank your bum" :) (harsh? I say it lovingly don't worry). He quickly puts it on with a little smile and then says "I want you to spank my bum" and then flashes me the cheekiest grin ever, as he clicked his seat belt in, such a little comic. Not so fun moment today was Jane running at her little leg full speed falling forward and cutting open her bottom lip on a chair leg, poor thing. I kept telling people who would commented on her lip when we were out "wait till her daddy sees it, he will be devastated". Which is true, every night we check on our kids we lay next to them and when we go into Jane's room Jack would stay their all night. Anyway, I am rambling, but I think it's important to embrace these moments and remember these days. I am sad to say these days for me don't come very often. When they do come though, watch out I will conquer...Along with my Three Amigos.

Another flashback photo. Everett and Me when Everett was almost 2

2012-01-16T12:27:00.000-08:00

This was hung in my room growing up.

Awesomness.

2012-01-13T08:15:00.000-08:00

I have heard funny and adorable things from my children lately, since we have no form of other documentation other than the blog, (no camera, no video camera....I know so sad) They are going to have to be documented here :). Here goes the list:

Harry's Awesomeness:

1. He is Potty Trained! (Except for the nasty little skids that need to be changed twice a day...Sick)

2. He buckles his own seat belt. I am talking the shoulder/lap belt, not the dinky car seat. Major accomplishment (I might have screamed crazy loud the first time he did this...It's the little things right?).

3. Won't let me wipe his bum after "you know what"....Gross. Super awesome...Skids remember?

4. His favorite toy is Batman, such a boy. Just ask him to talk like Batman, double awesome.

5. He still eats messier than Jane. Seriously, so not awesome.

6. Still a cuddle bug.

Everett's Awesomeness:

1. He is a clean freak. By the end of the day when he gets ready for bed his clothes are clean enough to wear again. Less laundry right? :)

2. He always takes his dish to the sink, (again super clean) and I never have to wipe up after him, he doesn't spill.

3. Independent Guru.

4. He masters every puzzle he is given

5. He is amazingly sweet example: yesterday while Jane was down for a nap and Harry was sleeping Everett has to go into his room for "Quiet Time" which really means "Mommy alone time" :) He comes out of his room and asks me this question "Mom, can I sneak into Jane's room and carefully cuddle her while she sleeps?" I was so blown away by it that I said yes. So, he did. He loves Jane so much, he is constantly looking out for her, and wanting to give her hugs and kisses.

6. While Harry was down for a nap the other day Everett said "Mom, I am going to sneak downstairs and give Harry a kiss while he is sleeping". Creepy? Sweet? Honestly, I hope he always stays this way.

7. Another sweet Everett moment was this morning when I dropped him off at school he always gives us kisses, but this morning he grabbed Jane's hand and kissed it and then said "That's how you kiss a Princess Jane!" I am not making this stuff up this kid is oozing with over with sweetness.

Jane's Awesomeness:

1. She's Potty Trained! Just kidding, that would be awesome....Wishful thinking.

2. Still the #1 affection of everyone in the household most of all Jack.

3. Saucey. Enough said.

4. She counts like this "AHH, TEEUUU" and thats as far as she goes. so funny.

5. Her first word (along time ago) was "Baby" she is really good at saying "NO".

6. She is pulling in the rest of her teeth.

7. Her hair is long enough to have to comb and do everyday...Pigtails! Lovin it!

8. She sleeps in a single bed. She gets out of it plays for a little and then crawls back into it and falls asleep, she also does this routine for nap time. Seriously she sleeps better than the boys.

My awesome Story of the week: Showing up to the gym twice wearing my UGG Boots completely forgetting to take them off and put on my Tennis Shoes. So annoying.

That is all for the "Awesomeness" for now. I am still working out everyday, Jack is working and traveling again. We are snuggling into Sandy and would love to make this our home, we'll see we never have a plan because our life cannot be planned, who knows where we will end up.

Here's a Blast from the past, Everett in England at 5 months old

Christmas-

2012-01-04T11:09:00.000-08:00

Christmas is over, is it weird that I am so glad? Also, Jack pointed out today that we had Christmas Decor down for three days when Valentine Decor took it's place. I love Valentines! I have never loved holidays more than this year, the kids are so into every celebration now that they are getting older, I love it.

The kids were awesome on Christmas morning. Everett opened every single gift with the same enthusiasm example: "Mom! I cannot believe you got me a new belt!!! I wanted this!!!". It literally took the boys 20 mins to go through theirs stockings because they were drinking in every little thing they possibly could.

Jane got a doll and it's really safe to say I was a year too early on this type of doll. So, I brushed her hair after it being mangled and thrown on the floor in the first hour of it's existence and have put it on a high shelf for when she is older. Luckily my mom got her an adorable little "Dora" doll that she loves. I love girl toys!!

We did all the festive things this Christmas. We went and saw "The Forgotten Carols" with Everett, Parties, Lights, Festival of trees, Zoo, these events all decked out our wonderful Christmas season. 2012 it looking great!

Mustache Band-Aids, Jack snuck all of these into everyone's stockings at the Roberts Christmas Eve Celebration. Harry couldn't stay awake for opening presents

A crazy day...

2011-12-15T22:53:00.000-08:00

A non-stop day happens all the time in this house (duh three kids remember?) but no day has been crazier than today (well Thursday took me this long to post it).

My day began with me waking up at 8:00 am by Harry who every morning instead of heading downstairs with Everett to watch Mickey Mouse he climbs up in bed with me and snuggles until I get up. I love his cold little feet snuggling their way under my warm body, a total trait he got from me, sorry getting side tracked. Continuing on. Harry + morning snuggle = perfect way to start your day. Today I had a lot to do, but considering it is the season of joy I was excited to embark on my day (if only I knew what kind of day it would have been).

I started off heading to the DI, I know you all are probably way to good for that lovely joint, but for me I always go and look around to see if I can nab a treasure. Today, no treasure. Oh, did I mention I had all three bundles of joy with me? I love these little kiddo's but timing is everything, naps, snacks, moods. Luckily Everett was in a stunning mood, grinning, always taking Harry's hand being you know, big brother, I was so proud. DI stats: $1 dollar round frame that will be a future project = semi-success. Hand sanitizer, and we were off to the next store.

Kid to Kid. Harry fighting with me in the car for me to let him take his treasured "Kitten Soft Paws" toy. This is is second one, he lost his first one a few weeks ago and has been asking for it ever since. Miraculously at the Gym daycare he found one and they let him have it (so nice). But, considering he has been whining about it for three weeks I did not want this one lost. Rule: leave all toys in the car. Remember when I was talking about timing? Well moods were shifting so I let him take the toy in. Kid to Kid stats: 3 amazing flannel shirts for Harry $11 total + Harry losing "kitten Soft Paws" = extreme anger from me. grr.

Hobby Lobby, luckily all of these places are 30 seconds from each other. Hobby Lobby did not dissapoint, 50% of wrapping paper, a super cheap Craft for a new wall hanging, and bonus Crafts for the kids. Love it. Stats on kids behaviour: kids wearing out, Jane melting down, Harry slowest walker in the world, Everett very obedient, but acting a little too annoyed at Harry's slowness, "deep breaths Everett", "Deep breaths me".

Next stop Dollar Store! Okay I might seem super cheep to a lot of you. Here's the thing, I love the finer things in life, but I also love a bargain, the end. I wanted to find something to put my nieghborhood treats in. I found them, Tins, Love the Tins. A little tissue paper some home baked goodies. Delish. The rest of our Dollar Store trip went like this: Harry blowing on a toy Saxaphone, crap. gotta buy, good thing only a dollar. Send Everett to go and get a toy (gotta be fair), he chooses a Monster Truck and then Harry wants one but he already has a the Saxaphone. Mean mom? Maybe, Dollar Store Stats: 10 tins, 2 sets of Christmas labels, One unwanted Saxaphone, a monster truck, and a Santa Maze toy Jane wouldn't let go of = Harry crying because he wants a monster truck. awesome.

Final stop: Grocery Store. Eh. In out, $40 dollars worth of chocolate and pretzels. Kid Stats= Hungry, tired, no bueno.

Home: feed, unload. Start cooking the goodies for the nieghborhood, babysit a neighbor.

Feed family dinner. Try and clean up sticky chocolate spots all over the kitchen. I then head off to the doctor to have Jane's ear checked. Okay, I don't go to the doctor very often, I don't feel the need they need to go every time they have sniffle. But due to an enormous amount of wax build up in Jane's ear that was very dark in color, I made the call. All I got was she doesn't have an "Inner ear infection, it's more like an "outer ear infection". okay. The doctor wrote me a prescription for some ear drops. I dash out of there with my adorable little Jane who I want to hug and cuddle all the time, sorry side tracked, but Jane wasn't at all acting fussy which is why the doctor diagnosed the "Outer ear infection". Before I picked up her drops I needed to take a quick detour to pick up a mattress for some friends staying at our house that night, and then home to teach my two (and only) voice students who I adore. As I run to the store Jack calls and says my student is there I had just enough time to drop off her prescription and get home. Stats so far: Dr. office + mattress pick up + Grocery store = no prescription, one mattress, and a grinning Jane, did mention how adorable she is?

I arrive home teach my two awesome students and then take my students to a nieghbors house to practice a song for sunday's primary Christmas program (I am primary Chorister) after that is finished, I call Jack who has been juggling the kids for the past 5 hours and getting them to bed (he's awesome). I told him would pick up Jane's prescription. Oh, text message from my friend "will not be staying the night at our house". Bummer.

As I get Jane's prescription the Pharmacists says that will be $30.00. uh. what!!? I frankly reply (I am more frank the older I get) "What is my insurance for?" He then says "Oh, well they covered the other $174.00". Holy smokes! What a joke! You mean I am putting $200.00 ear drops in Jane's ear for a possible "Outer ear infection?" yikes. no thanks. The pharmacist said if she didn't seem irritated than don't get them and if she does I can come back and get them. This is why I work so hard on keeping my children's bodies healthy, because when it comes down to it I am the primary care-giver. I think the health care system is so dishonest. Don't get me wrong obviously if my child needed special medical care I would give it to them. But, come on? There is a place for doctors, and I am grateful for that. But, I am the mother I have mother intuition, I am responsible for their health. Sorry, super side tracked. Grocery store round 2: no prescription + tired me = relieved the night is over, oh and an extra mattress.

I actually started writing this post a few days ago ( Thursday just for accuracy sake). I was exhausted to say the least. I ended the night eating carbs and laughing with Jack. I am grateful for my slower days in comparison to crazy. But, I learned a lot and am sure learning more and more each day. Life is all about taking your opportunities and making the most of them. For those of you who actually read all the way through this post, you might be my most loyal and weird friends yet. :) Happy Holidays.

26

2011-12-12T15:59:00.000-08:00

Today is my 26th Birthday. I love birthday's, I am sure when I get a little older I will dread the coming years but for now I am lovin my twenties. In all reality I should be turning 35, with three kids and a whole bunch of grown up life experience crammed into 6 yrs. What have I learned in these last 6 years of adult-hood you may ask? Let me make you a list:

Nothing is ever, ever for certain

Life is way too short to sweat the lame stuff

Time goes very slow and super fast all at once

Listen to your own Mother/Woman intuition

Give people the benefit of the doubt they may surprise you

Watchimg my wording around me kids for example "what the "H"" instead of "What the hell" it has the same feel coming out of their mouths as the original.

Don't avoid germs they are immune builders

Don't argue about dumb things like "which way the Toilet paper goes"

Don't buy clothes in hopes to fit into them, dress for your figure now.

Positive reinforcement is incredibly hard to do but so worth the outcome

The only motivator is me

Scrambled eggs are perfectly acceptable for dinner

I determine my fate and who I want to be

Only paint your nails late at night when the kids are asleep

Don't be too paranoid you will raise paranoid children (germs...a healthy balance)

I have control over my bodies health and my children, it's my responsibilty

Generic brands are usually as good as the expensive brands sometimes even better

Stop critizing myself it will only damage me not build me up

PROBIOTICS

Little things matter like "offering a drink" to you spouse or "leaving a little note"

Boys have smelly feet (harry)

Boys love Potty talk (both boys)

I am not super-woman. I am Super-Mom

That doesn't even scratch the surface of what I have learned and a month ago I had a few really good things to put on the list and of course I forgot them :). But, I love the journey I have been on, it's been crazy hard, but fun. I am constantly looking at others and loving the example they set for me.I love Jack so much, he is the biggest GOON, and I am right there with him. My kids rock my socks off, I love how crazy they make me and in a split second I can melt. 26. geez. Here's looking at the next year, Cheers.

In honor of Jane who doesn't pick her nose just likes her finger up it.

Family Pictures

2011-12-06T15:27:00.000-08:00

Warning! Tons of pictures ahead. If beautiful children, a hot studly man, and well me make you sick, turn back now. Okay, enough talk, just scroll.

Thank You to travisJphotgraphy for these awesome photos! The end.

FLORIDA

2011-12-05T13:50:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I went with Jack on a business trip. 4 days + 3 night= Heaven. Jack is out of town more often than being in town. So, we thought we would finally (after a year of this new job) take advantage of a little vacay. My parents took our kids, which was perfect, didn't worry a bit the entire time. We flew out Monday, even the plane ride was nice, sitting next to jack with no distractions staring into oblivion out of my tiny window, so great. A huge bonus with flying with Jack and with Jack's job in general is all expenses are paid and Jack is a business class member. You wouldn't think this would be very important but it SO is, for example, we never had to stand in a line at the airport, Jack just flashed the secret sign and we were zipped through. love it.

We arrived in Florida about 1 am. We headed
over to the car rental and the only car they had available to take us to the hotel was a white Convertable. So, we cruised in style.

Notice my frizz ball hair. I could never live in Florida and that would be my #1 reason why

The next day when we promptly returned it for fear of getting any little nick on it. It was great while it lasted, we ended up with a Nissan Hybrid, a really cool car, not as glitzy as our "Corvey" but a lot more practical.

Did I mention this is officially the first time Jack and I have taken a Vacation together that's lasted longer than 24 hrs? This was I guess a "late Honeymoon" (6yrs. late). So basically I lounged around in the Hotel room, read a book, Worked out, did all of my Christmas Shopping at the amazing Mall that was three steps from my Hotel, and ate a lot of food. Poor Jack hardly left the Hotel room on Tuesday due to an enormous amount of work that needed to be done. Wednesday however we found our way to the beach. I know I am so lame but this is my first time ever on a Florida Beach and my second time ever on a beach. I am not a beach girl, notice my fair complexion and frizzy hair, I was so out of place :). The sand literally felt like Flour. It's amazing what people will wear on the beach and how tanned they feel the need to be. hilarious. I love people watching.

Sadly our trip ended. I could have stayed a couple more days at least. But, it just gives me something to look forward to. Thank You to Jack who was the best travel partner ever. I found myself staring at him with a goofy grin on my face, I hadn't felt so giddy since before I had kids! How sad is that? It was just us. It's amazing how you get caught up in the day to day busy life. For a few days I had no cares and it brought back the "young me", I am going to try and bring her back more often.

Coming Soon.....

2011-11-19T09:19:00.000-08:00

I know I have dropped the ball on blogging lately. Remember how Jack was gone every week for 4 months on a business trip? Well he has now been home for three weeks straight and well, I am loving that he has taken over and written a few posts. I'm also loving the extra pair of hands. There are a couple things that we will be "blogging" about, our recent family photo shoot and mine and Jack's little getaway to Florida. Stay tuned!

Happy Halloween!

2011-11-02T09:04:00.000-07:00

This is the second week in a row that I have not had to travel. And guess what, next week, I'll be home too! Having some time down, I thought I would do another family post.

Our family was attacked this Halloween by two merciless Pirates and one dainty Peacock! The only question was which of the Pirates was the real "Dread Pirate Roberts"!

This was Evy's Pirate scowl!

Yes, that is a "Skull Tat" on Evy's neck. Isn't it awesome! He loved it.

Sarah and I were "Butt Rockers". And that is my real mustache. Okay, I only wish it was. Mine is blonde and skinny. Strangley enough, I received some compliments from strangers who thought my mustache was real! Yes, they were from old ladies and yes it was a little creepy.

Us and some friends.

Photo Update

2011-10-21T07:59:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since our last posting and I figured I (Jack) would take the reigns and update y'all (a term I can use now since half my time I live in the South) on us! By the way, it is our Anniversary today. 6 years! Booya! We were talking at dinner last night on how six years feels like an undestatement: 3 kids (ahh yeah), moved 8 times (anger), 5 different jobs (I know), and a library of memories to cherish (warm and tingly feelings). We like to think we are going on 10 years (in a good way!).

(Sarah has been doing Thrive food storage)

To set the record, Sarah has been Wonderlady, Supermom, and Rocking Wife. This past year she has been the craft and fashion wizard. I am sure there's a more sophisticated and ept term than "craft and fashion wizard" but heaven help me, I'm a little behind on our "Project Runway" DVR recordings. She has transformed our home into a warm and bright place with dynamite flares of character (most of which she has done by hand). Our kids adore and respect her, and she runs the household like a well oiled machine. Plus, come on, she's a total hottie!

Below are some photos from my phone that I wanted to share:

Jane - She is our little delight! Now 17 months old and just walking! She takes her time on everything she does - no pressuring this little ball of joy. Janey loves her baby doll and placing it in her baby stroller and walking around the house. She is just starting to repeat words like "Cheese" "Dad-da" and "Uh Oh". She literally brings light and joy into our home.

(She's saying "cheese" for the photo)

Harry - We call him "Bear" because the guy is built like a linebacker, growles deeper and gritier than me (seriously his growl is amazing), and is strong and aggressive. Funny enough, he is also our most cuddily child. Lately, when we get mad at him (he's our troublemaker) he'll repeat and mimick what we say to him.
Example -

Dad - "Harry, stop hitting your brother."

Harry - "You stop hitting your broder!"

Dad - "You stop repeating what I say!"

Harry ' "YOU stop wepetting what YOU say!"

The guy is hilarious.

(This was with Grandpa Bob. Grandpa stunns the grasshopper with a fly swatter. Harry then picks up the stunned grasshopper and places it in the jar. They take the jar of grasshoppers over to the chicken coup and feed them to the hungry chickens - I know, some of you will be grossed out, but this is farm life people! Harry was fearless.

Everett - Our oldest and wisest child. Evy is our brain boy. The guy is smart as a whip! He has a memory like an Elephant and his verbal communication and vocabulary is incredible! I am thinking debate team instead of football team captain. With Harry's physical brutness and Evy's intellectual strength's it is no wonder they get on eachother's nerves. One thing he definetly got from me is his rocker instincts. He loves Queen, and some of my other song selections I let him listen to when we're in the car.

(My brother John got me this shirt for my Bday. He ordered it and they shipped a small. Evy thought it was awesome and calls it my "bones shirt" and asked if he could wear it. Never been prouder - tear)

(This was my hand print when I was four! Evy's fit mine perfectly!)

(The kiddies)

Another year goes by.

2011-08-30T14:38:00.000-07:00

Everett turned 4 last Friday! He is 4! Honestly, this kid gets cuter and sweeter with each year. A few things about our Birthday BOY:

Everett loves Shrimp, it's his favorite food. I know crazy right?

He loves Trains, Cars, Dinasours, Smurfs, you name it he loves it all.

He is very easy to please.

He adores Jane and is a great helper to Harry

He fights great with Harry too

He is sensitive and loving to others

He loves to be in the water and loves boating

He is still blowing us away with his amazing memory

He tells me he loves me about 20 times a day and tell him about 50 times

He always compliments me and wants to cuddle

His latest thing he does is any time he has to say "No" to me or I say "No" to him, no matter what it is he always says "But, I still love you"

He his also throwing some pretty emotional tantrums. We are working on playing the "Glad game" (come on Polyanna lovers!)

What would we do without this guy? We all adore him to pieces. I am so proud of the boy he is. I am impressed with his obedience and love for us. He is so amazing. We are smitten. Thank you Everett for being so amazing.

Here are a few pics from his Birthday. He chose a Pirate Birthday this year, and this really is the first year he has had an opinion for his party, I love him. We started the day with Breakfast in Bed. This was one of my favorite memories growing up.

Needless to say I think it will also be one of his

We went and saw Winnie the Pooh and then onto the party!

The most handsome Pirate I have ever seen

Friends and Presents= Best Day Ever!

"Arrgh. The party favors"

A WONDERFUL PARTY! HAPPY BIRTHDAY EVERETT!

Also here is a little darling moment by non other than our darling Janey. Love her to pieces! Can't get enough!

spin, spin, spin

2011-08-23T08:43:00.000-07:00

The summer has gone by way too fast for me. I am excited for fall because I am a Halloween lover. But I feel this year is flying by and with it are my children growing up. Somedays I want my kids to grow up and I know they will do just that and then I will miss their little selves. So, slow down, enjoy this time, and enjoy every season is my new mantra.

I have been spinning like a maniac. I love it. I am addicted. I may need future interventions. I go three times a week and wish I could go everyday. I am however realizing that my legs might just get huge (I have crazy muscle legs without trying), but who cares its the feeling of accomplishment right? After one spin class I am ready to conquer the world with my children in each arm plowing through rough streets...Don't mess (are you getting the visual cause it makes me laugh). I have a funny Everett story that has to do with me in my work out clothes (since I am in them all the time, he's had plenty of time to observe):

The other day I was in my tight spandex standing in line at Cafe Rio picking up dinner for the family, I brought Everett along for special one on one, (for the record he is the coolest kid I would take him anywhere). I'm standing there when Everett says "Mom! I think you have another baby in your belly!" Oh geez. This prompted the surrounding people to look at me from all angles (Tight spandex remember?)

I reply with a chuckle "Oh, no there isn't a baby in mom's belly"

Everett says "Well its growing!" I reassured him again that there was no baby. He then says "Maybe you just ate a lot of food then". Right.....We were in line to get food remember? Meaning I had no food in my belly and was looking forward to stuffing my face. After that little conversation I was really looking forward to stuffing my face. Funny guy, love him to pieces. He is the first to tell me I don't look very good, or that I look amazing. I love him. Nothing like a three year old to give it to you straight and they are usually right. More spinning here I come!

Here are a couple cute pictures of my two rascal crazy boys who love, fight, giggle, and fight some more.

Everett the Stud

(He is also called "Rain Man" amazing memory)

Harry Berry

(we also call him shadow, he's always one step behind Everett and repeating what he says)

Nice. No shame here.

Our neighbor is an amazing photographer. He snapped these one afternoon when Jack and I took a little get away. Check out his blog travisjphotography.blog.com.

Stripping it clean

2011-08-16T11:18:00.000-07:00

OH Geez. That is the feeling in my gut right now. I have so many things that must be done today! At this very moment!! Instead I am hiding downstairs getting very very side tracked. I am neglecting these things as we speak:

Cleaning the house for my Thrive party tonight

Making food for the party

Laundry

Airing out the basement (Harry pooed on the floor, with a diaper on. duh. Still trying to figure that one out)

Cleaning Paint out of Harry's hair and off his upper lip (don't ask)

I am in my work-out attire and will be ditching the work out today (I know I am so bummed about that one....No really I am.)

Need to go to the store...again.

Need to stop at the copy place

blah, blah,

Oh, and wait for a new little nephew to be born! yippee. Gets me baby hungry. hahahaha.

You see. Dumb stuff (except for the new little baby coming). But stuff none the less. Jack is out of town until Thursday, kids are having a bad week again. nice. We did do a craft project today involving paint (paint in hair, upper lip remember?) how is it in the pictures to do these crafts there is no mess and the kids + mother are smiling? Such a lie I tell you. There was paint everywhere, fighting, smooshing, oozing, not what I in-visioned at all. Finally Everett suggested we all go in a quiet place and say a prayer so heavenly father can make us happy. We did and the minute I finished the prayer Everett smiled and said "He made me happy." Lesson learned yet again from my children. Love them so much. Okay enough Chit Chat I got to go!

Found

2011-07-26T18:13:00.000-07:00

I told you I was trying to find me. I think as mothers we get lost so easily. The constant running around, cleaning, cooking, laundry, taxi, friend, shoulder to cry on, shoulder to clean a dirty mouth, professional shopper, hair dresser/cutter, book reader, letter writing coach, poop lady, and on and on. Do you get the picture? I have been running around feeling frustrated and mostly annoyed. I am not one of those people that is magically happy and chipper. I'm tired. I got lost, I forgot the main objective and importance to my job. I was missing the biggest part the part you can't fix alone. I knew I needed a change. I slowed down for a moment on Sunday and only then did that ever so small voice tell me what I needed, to go to the Temple. Monday, I called my babysitter and today I went. Today was amazing. My children's behaviour didn't change, but I was changed. Not once this entire day did I act impatiently. Not once this entire day did a negative thought come through my mind without me immediately dismissing it. I have cried many times today, not because motherhood is hard. I cried because I know that I have been heard. I know that I am being watched over. "Be of good courage and I will strengthen your heart" -Psalms.
I went to the Temple for a couple reasons, this little man being one of them. He is a strong willed and tough. But I am comforted in our little future together.

Finding me...

2011-07-24T19:55:00.000-07:00

This past week was full of High's and Low's....Okay mostly low's. The great part of my week was having my little sister stay with me for a few days. The low's were my kids having the worst week of their lives with ATTITUDE. I hate it when all my kids decide at the same time to act as worse they possibly can. Jack flew out on Sunday and ironically that is when the children decided to act like loonies. I thought with a little one on one, or TLC, maybe the Park, reading, movie time, would maybe help them. Oh, no it was non-stop bickering, fighting, Harry not listening, Everett not listening (he is usually my angel) and well, I really can't lump Jane into the same group as her brothers because she is by definition '"Perrfect" I checked in the dictionary and sure enough under Perfect was Jane's picture, so there you have it. Anyway, back to HARRY, I was tested this week with this little man in ways I didn't know possible. I have never been a harder parent, meaner, and down-right frustrated as I was this week with him. None of it worked too. No matter how many time-outs I gave, no matter how many spanks (oh geez, report me. I never spank unless it is absolutely necsessary). He didn't flinch a bit with any of my tactics. He would just look at me, scowl and say "You go-time out mommy!" awesome. I wish, then maybe I could have a minute of peace. As I worked on keeping the peace in my home this week (to no avail) I finally dove into my project that had been sitting in my garage for the past three weeks. It was therapy. Every night I would put the kids to bed and busy myself with sanding, painting, filling in holes, hammering, pulling apart, bleeding, and cussing in 300 degree weather. Again, I had my sister with me and we had so much fun, I love her, I just wish she didn't have to see me on my Worst week of parenthood to date.

This week I was a boat being tossed on a treacherous ocean. Battered, abused, mistreated, and feeling like I had no control as desperately as I tried to sail my way through the gigantic waves. I gave all my energy this week to no avail. By Friday Jack came home and the waters started to calm. But still being tossed about a bit. Then the skies cleared and by Saturday we all had a wonderful day, having lunch with my Grandparents, Dad, and Rebekah. Then coming home and heading up the canyon with friends for dinner. The kids did well, no major tantrums. I am so glad the week ended well. Storms are horrible. I know without them we wouldn't have the life and beauty we enjoy. It's hard to be grateful for them when you are in them. But boy isn't it beautiful looking back and seeing what you just came through.

That piece of furniture that I worked on every night I completed. I worked hard on it, it became an obsession every night. With scraping, smoothing, tightening joints, painting, and finally the finishing touches, I placed it in the most perfect spot in the house. I didn't realize how much I needed to do this project. I didn't stop until it was perfect. It was something I could control with all of the lack of control I was having. I need to to work on smoothing myself, repainting, and fixing wobbles. Then ever so carefully place myself in my house, back in my life, and back in my children's arms.

Before

After

Young again

2011-07-11T20:19:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday Jack and I went on a date. It was much needed, 6:00 pm could not come soon enough until our babysitter arrived. We decided instead of a movie, or dinner that we would go miniature golfing. We had so much fun goofing off with each other. It's wierd it really does feel like a "Date" even when you have been married for 6 yrs. You have the awkward beginning of not knowing what to say (it's wierd to have uninterrupted conversation) then the "showing off" stage, giggles, and if you're lucky, a good night kiss. I guess the major difference now is that after the kiss, our date night ends with....screaming children. But we love it. Our Date was a blast.

Stud Muffin

While Jack was taking this photo he lost his balance and was forced to walk through a rose bush resulting in a large cut on his leg...bummer.
It was perfect weather not too hot. But I mis-judged the wind and was having many Marilyn Monroe moments.
A good night, a perfect date (minus the rose bush incident :)).

The kids are growing fast. Jane has started to throw little fits, they are dramatic and hilairious. Everett and Harry are little buds, they are still sleeping in the basement on a mattress in the spare bedroom. For some reason it is much more fun to sleep there than in their cute room upstairs with us. Its been 5 weeks now. I don't mind, they sleep better than when they were upstairs.

The summer is great, I could bask in the sun all year round. Our days are filled with laziness and no plans, we LOvE it! Especially now that we have a hammock in the backyard to swing and relax in. Jack travels all the time. I am not complaining we have a good job and I am grateful for that. I have many projects keeping me busy (you know when I am not raising three children) and will be posting them hopefully soon.

Also I will be posting about my weekend away to Sun Valley with my Mom and my sisters filled with, eating, Allison Krauss, Swimming, laying by the pool, shopping, eating, and much more. I didn't have a camera and am waiting for the pics. more on that later. :)

One other new highlight that I am excited about is that I am a now a consultant for THRIVE food storage! It is keeping me busy, and is truly the best Food Storage ever. Whew. Breathe. Better sign off, I'm typing this while watching 'Sleepless in Seattle' with Jack before he leaves tomorrow, taking every moment we can together. Goodnight.

Wings...Or a Rocket Ship

2011-06-26T12:12:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh, Jack has been home for an entire day, after being in Florida for a week. How hard is it taking care of three kids from dawn until dawn? very. I am very, very tired. It's so nice having a husband again. My list of what I did this week, consists of a millions things that must be done everyday, there is no break until night time when I zone out in front of the TV watching my recorded shows. I know, this list is so not interesting to anyone but me, but we need a boost now and then and I don't think we realize just how amazing we are until we see it in black and white. Here it goes:

Breakfast
Feed three mouths forgetting my own
Gear up and get my work out clothes on
Gym (Heaven, kids are in daycare while I work out)
Lunch in there somewhere usually is a green smoothie or a PPJ
Take Everett to school
Savers thrift trip-found some shirts, an orange bowl, and an ovacado chip 'n dip platter=score
Home
Harry nap time/depends on the day. I look forward to it its the only time he is not whining.
Laundry/ 2 loads
dishes/wipe the table down for the 3rd time.
Water flowers/cuddle Jane/Harry wakes up, usually grumpy
Pick Everett up from school
No shower, still in work-out attire
dinner
swimming /usually naked (not me:))
Bed by 7 actually falling asleep @ 9:30

**Side note:
*Harry is deep into his terrible two's. He bites. He bites hard. His victim? Everett. I am at the end of my rope with this kid. A friend reccommended to me to do a "Cold Shower". Before everyone gasps I have tried spray in his mouth, spanking, time-out, and biting him back. My friend told me how she had to do it twice to her daughter. Harry has had 3 in a week. Day 3 now and still no biting. I am telling this story because this kid is so stinking tough and strong willed, lets hope he uses it for good in the future. I hate being a mean mom, and at the end of the day when I am complimented for my kids good behaviour I tell them its because I am a Tough Cookie. I believe in respect for everyone and that is a hard lesson to teach.

That was my slowest day of the week. The other days consisted of hanging at the Park with friends, Pre-school Graduation, and many more errands, and my regular Gym visits which I love and look forward too. Cycling is on Tuesday mornings and I pertty much want to throw up after. When people see me with my hands full of all three they comment with, "Your super busy" and when Jack is out of town I respond with "Yeah, its crazy being a Single PaReNt" because that is what I am for the week.

I am finishing up my latest project of putting curtains in an enitre house for my father-in-laws new rental home, 13 windows to be exact. I am so ready for it to be over. I am not good at this at all! My mom is a Master Seamstress and I am all ThUmBs in this department. Give me a chair to re-aphloster and I will not disappoint but once you throw all the Numbers and InchEs and Widths I am confused and frustrated. My latest and most exciting project I am waiting to embark on sits in my garage. An old record table that I am going to gut and paint...more to come on that soon..hopefully. Firstly, I am throwing my first THRIVE party this wednesday. So much to do so litte time. Funny how life works like that. This post is lame. I am sitting here thinking "I know what I want this post to say but I am too tired to write it". This week is busy and I really do love being busy. We are running around in as much sun as we can before it is swept away again. Loving the SUMMER!!!

We planted a garden this year. Mostly consisting of pumpkins, everyday we run outside to see how much they have grown. Hoping to have pumpkin pie and pumkin soup all through the winter. We also have a tomato plant, basil, Lavendar, and flowers growing.

Today the boys and I were on the front porch reading from Everett's scriptures, when Everett asks me (like he has many times before) about "Heaven" and where it is. I told him its way up in the sky. Everett " How do we get there?" me: "We can only get there when we die" Everett: "Oh, but I can't fly" Me:"We float like magic" Everett: "Well I think I need a Rocket Ship"

I love this life. I am so grateful for these little people. The end. No pictures lame.

Jane's Special Day

2011-06-07T20:56:00.001-07:00

We love this little girl so much. Jane gives all of us smiles every moment of everyday. She is crawling around like crazy and desperately wants to walk. She is all smiles until her brothers take her toys and you better believe she screams at them and it results in them promptly giving it back. She is a doll face, we love her so much, can't get enough.
***

A picture says so much

She did not hesitate

she loved the cupcake....

....but I didn't have to tell you that

Daddy's sweetheart
All of our family and friends made the day perfect She loves her 'girly toys' and so do my boys

***
Finally, Jane's birthday ended with a "Floating Lantern" a new family tradition. Jane was the first to make her 'Wish to the Heavens'
(Yes, those are my p.j's)

So cool. We all loved it

.....and Jane's wish....To be a princess...Wish Granted.

Magical

A Year goes BY.

2011-06-05T14:38:00.000-07:00

Amazing how a year can fly right by. Little baby Jane turned 1 last Thursday. We officially celebrated yesterday due to the fact that Jack was out of town for her actual birthday (6 days 5 nights to be exact....Not that I was counting or anything). Yesterday we had friends and family over to help us celebrate.

Thanks to Martha Stewart I was able to decorate my backyard with these fun PoM PoMs

It was great to have both of our families and our friends down for some good food on the most perfect day.

I made it a goal to home make all of the cupcakes. After many failed attempts I finally made some that I am proud of.

*A flourless chocolate cupcake with cream cheese frosting dusted with chocolate

* Vanilla cupcake with strawberry butter cream frosting topped with a fresh strawberry
*Finally, Red velvet with cream cheese frosting

More pictures to come of the adorable little Jane eating her cupcake. Blogger is being lame and won't upload my pics. blah. Check back SOON!

Our British side

2011-05-28T19:32:00.000-07:00

The last couple weeks have been awesome and so busy. Awesome because our friends from England were here visiting. Busy in that we spent everyday hanging out with them and showing them what Salt Lake City has to offer. We met the Ellis Family when were living in Bath when Jack did his Masters. It was hard to say goodbye to them. Hannah and I got so close while we were there. I was a first time mom in a new country and she was also a new mom. I love and admire Hannah, their cute family are so dear to us. Here are some (and by 'some' I mean a million) pictures of their time spent with us.

***
Everett and Ella became best friends. I tried to convince Corrin that they could possibly fall in love when they were older. He was not having any of that becuase Ella is 6 months older. Whatever, Cougar's are the new hot thing.

We first took them to the Dinasour Museum they had a great time. Since Ella has been here Everett has been quick to catch on to her words. for instance instead of "What?" Ella says "Pardon?" oh, so stinkin polite I love it! Also we like "Fig Newtons" but they call them "Fig Rolls" so now Everett calls them that too. Love it.

***

*Dinasour Museum*

The Museum was a big hit

How about "Sand Angels"? Totally Everett's idea.

Felicity "Flick" and Jane six months apart in age. You could just eat those chubbsey cheeks
Ella drove with us everywhere, these two are a 'Spazzy Pair'

*Thanksgiving Point- Children's Gardens*

Singing for us on the "Lady Bug Stage"
Cute story about Ella and Everett: The clothes Ella is wearing in the above picture we call "Overalls" they call them "Dungaree's". We get to the Gardens and Everett sees Ella and says, "What are you wearing?"
Ella responds in her adorable accent "These are my Dungaree's" (a little embarrassed because apparantly she didn't want to wear them that day, is what I was told by Hannah)
Then Everett says "Thier Cool". Ella stood two feet taller after hearing that. It was the cutest conversation I have ever heard.
***

I love this girl so much

We spent everyday together in England working out with workout videos/running. We have seen each other at our worse and our best. Hannah is one of those 'do it all' types of people, very inspiring. She studied 'Child Developement' and I love how she parents Ella and how she communicates with kids, it really is a work of art.

***
Hannah and Flick.
Hannah is gorgeous and just had a baby, oh and ran the marathon a year and half ago. She is amazing.

One of the days we spent making Treasure Boxes. This one is Everett's

We will miss sweet Ella so much. Everett cried when I told him we wouldn't be seeing her for a long time..:( it's hard to explaining that to a 3 yr. old) He did tell us that Ella was his "NeW Sister" and Jane is his "Baby sister".
A memorable trip full of:
Classic Skating, Dinasaur Museum, Church Childrens Museum (awesome)/Gateway, Children's Garden, and eating out as much as we could.
***

*Our last Night*

We got babysitters so we could celebrate and taste our food. We took them to 'Goodwood' for some true barbeque. It was delicious, we went all out with appetizers and everything (we never get appetizers) we were stuffed.

We were so sad to have to say Goodbye. It was sureal to have Hannah, Corrin, Ella, and Flick in our home. It was 4 years ago when we met and its been 3 years since we saw them last. It's cruel to have your best friend live so far away. Hannah makes me want to better and I only hope that I can be the same kind of friend to others. We love them and will miss them!

Wedding

2011-05-25T20:56:00.000-07:00

My brother Nate got married on May 21, 2011. We had great time at his wedding. Congrats Nate! I was a picture snapping fool.

The Ceremony

Karter...It was a lot to take in.

Nate singing to Aleisha. Pretty much the sweetest thing I have ever seen

Sisters....We totally look alike.

Me and Jane. I love this little girl to pieces. She honestly has the sweetest personality, mine and Jack's little darling.

Daddies little girl Honestly
Mom swears by these little bottles of bubbles that they are the best and super convienient when little grandkids need a quick fix....She snatched a few.
Megan was yet again amazing with her incredible Cake making skills

These two are inseperatable
Love this little guy...Growing up way too fast

Spunky Kid

Diddlly Dee.

2011-05-15T18:07:00.000-07:00

We are home. Friday morning we met my parents in Kaysville to drop off the kids while Jack and I escaped for two days to St. George. We first stopped in Cedar City to hang out with Grandpa. My Grandpa Jorgensen is 89 yrs. old and is still as sharp as ever. We went out to the ranch where he has his five horses. Grandpa has been driving out to the ranch twice every day for who knows how long to take care of his babies. We rode Honey Chex who was incredibly lazy and knew that I especially was a push over and would not move no matter how hard I dug in my heels. We then ate at Sizzlers and listened to war stories. Jack and I polished off the night with a movie "Source Code" (eh? the jury is still out on that one) The next morning we ate at a Classy Diner for breakfast (haha. very classy). All in all a wonderful trip with Grandpa we only wish we lived closer so we could see him more.
***
Off to St. George to spend our Saturday. We shopped at the Outlets and kept feeling like we were forgetting something...duh...three kids. wierd feeling. We walked around hand in hand enjoying every second we could alone, ah, just us. We felt gross after the day before of eating on the road, along with sizzler plus the 'classy diner', so we decided to check into our hotel and get a good workout/swim in. Swimming was amazing. How long has it been since I was actually in a pool and not having to worry about my children?.....uh....way too long. It was heaven. Except Jack kept wanting to play 'Locknest' so there wasn't much relaxing. We were giggling like crazy....okay scratch that I was 'giggling' Jack well he was laughing in a manly manner :).

***
The whole point of this trip was to see my good friend from my childhood get married. I honestly had not seen Rachel in 10 years! What??? Nuts. She was a stunning bride and we were so honored to be at the ceremony. Leticia is best friends with Rachel and was down for the wedding with Shawn. I loved hangnig out with them, so much fun. That night we went to the reception out at the Bride and Groom's Cafe/resteraunt located in Kayenta. Amazing! Incredible views of red rock cliffs. The food was amazing, the music was great, and the company was awesome. The best reception I have been to. I wish we had pictures of the event it was all held outside and the weather was perfect. We polished the night off eating some more at the 'Brick Oven' (not impressed).

Rachel and Greg sealing the deal- May 14, 2011

Later that night after the reception- Jack dared me to take a full posed shot in the resteraunt. I love that I keep surprising him, bring it on.

Much needed.

While we were enjoying FreedOm, the adorable 'chillens' were enjoying Grandma and Grandpa time. We were not missed, and I am glad!

Jamba in the Sun
Making Tortillas

Yard work/child slavery

Good little helpers

The Kids had a great time. We won't be hearing the end of wanting to go up to "Grandma and Grandpa's". Best babysitters EVER.

Skinny Skirts, Tumbles, and Hubby

2011-05-01T19:55:00.000-07:00

Let me start with saying, I have been working out hard core for 3 months. I wasn't seeing any results tackling my stomach so I decided to go with good old Jillian Michaels and try her 6 Week 6 pack program. It's awesome. I know its not hard core like some programs our there but for me I love it and I love that Jack does it with me too. I am coming up on starting my 3rd week on the 6 week program. This morning I was getting ready for church and I threw on my skinny skirt (to appear smaller than I am this is my trick) and usually I am squeezing and can't zip it all the way and today I zipped it up. AWESOME. It's great to see results. Still have a ways to go, but finally I feel like I am getting there. Thanks JILLIAN.

(This was me today after church. I know it's not of my bottom half but you can tell that I am lovin' getting fit)

Jane my most precious litte doll started crawling on Tuesday. Jane never army crawled like my boys did she just went straight to her knees, so proud of her. On Wednesday I was making lunch with my friend and I had Jane in the living room playing with some toys I checked on her and she was still playing and not 30 seconds later I hear a BOOM, BOOM, BOOM, and my darling little girl is at the bottom of the stairs (12 steps to be exact....). Honestly, I have never had a child fall down the steps. I was so mad at myself for not being more careful. But really it never crossed my mind that she would crawl down the landing and then down the steps, because she hadn't been crawling long distances. Thankfully there were ZERO injuries, I am so grateful for that. So, now we have a gate steady and secure. (side note: we have purchased 3 gates this week and they have all been crappy, and the one we have "settled" on is too hard for the kids to open. bleh).

Jack came home late friday night after being gone all week. I am so glad when he comes home. Taking care of these three little munchkins is fun but so so exhausting and hard. I am now taking advantage of the fact that I can run to the store and leave the kids home with daddy. It's the little things right? ah.
***

The boys are adorable and still giving us a run for our money. Here they are before church today.

(Harry still just wants to read books all day, its wonderful. I need to enjoy it more, because before I know it he won't want anything to do with me)

( Everett is still acting out movies for us. He also indulges me and lets me play along. I love it.)

And finally Everett's bedtime today. We have been letting him stay up later than the 'Babies' because he is a big boy. He deserves it, he is a great kid. That was our week and all updated photos (literally they were all from today). Life is busy, it makes us crazy and also makes us smile, we love it.

FaSHIOn....YES PLease!

2011-04-16T21:39:00.000-07:00

Everyone who knows me knows my love for fashion. It's had a deep root in me even from a young age....Surprised? My favorite book that I would read every night was "Beautiful" it sat right next to worn out copies of Vogue and other gossip magazines (not into the gossip part, just the styles :)). "Beautiful" is a book that was my mothers. It dates back into the 1950's (Yes, I am an old soul). So when Rebekah signed up to be in a fashion show I was very excited, and didn't hesitate to jump at the opportunity to go and see her.

***

Pre-Show.....aahhh....Stop it....I know we're cute.:)

***

Mother and Me. My mom seriously has not aged in 15 years. BEAUTIES.

***

The SHOW. Look at my darling sister, she did awesome. A total natural.

She's got the Walk.

***

After the show. I know it wasn't a "High-End Fashion Show" but we can pretend right?

***

The Sisters. If Claire had been there it would have been perfect. Love my SIsters. ***

Here is a Picture of her other outfit...She said this was her favorite minus the ugly bag. I am so proud. Great Job Bekah. A great trip to Logan. Jack is finally home from his 5 day trip and I am so glad to have a man around the house. We are loving the warm weather today let's hope it sticks around for awhile. Jane is starting to crawl she is the most precious little thing in the world. Everett and Harry love each other and fight each other....its annoying. We have now decided to call Harry "Shadow" because he is never further than one step behind Everett. They are adorable and I am lucky to have these Hellians. As for me? Eh. I am good. I am running an average of 30 miles a weeks and I am hoping in another 6 months of this that I will have all of my baby wieght off. One can only hope right? Well easter is approaching and I LOVE Easter. Let's be honest, I love all the holidays any excuse to buy special holiday candy gets me excited.

Funny Everett: He is driving me crazy at the moment because he never seems to be happy with what he is given and always wants what others have...BLAH!!! Drives me nuts. So, I am desperately trying to break this habit from him. I never give in to tantrums never ever, ever. But for some reason Everett still insists on throwing them. uh. So the other day, he wanted something and I said "No" then blah, blah, the tantrum insues. He then asks me "Book?" in a teary sad voice, I said "No, not tonight we need to get to bed" He then says "Tiger game?" Me, "No, sweetie, it's bed time" His last teary request "HUG?" As crazy as he makes me he is sweet. Love him to pieces.

April Fools Birthday

2011-04-01T19:58:00.000-07:00

April Fool's day is a very special day in our family. anyone who finds out that April Fools day is Harry's birthday always laugh, and their laughter soon turns to disbelief when I tell them that I planned it that way. That's right! April Fools day was wide open when I chose to have my c-section, who wants their kid born on April Fools day??? I DO! Do you know why?? Well little Harry gets to share this very special Birthday with his very special Grandpa Passey. Today Harry turned 2 and my dad turned 60! Geez. I can't believe how quickly my men are growing up. My mom planned a surprise party for my dad. We were all set to go. Tuesday my Dad told my mom that all he wanted for his birthday was to make a surprise visit to Salt Lake to see us. Mom quickly had to tell a lie and say that we would not be in town. The party was on. I had been running around like a crazy person all day and when we arrived in logan around 5:30 I was getting frantic. I love, love, love surprises! Seeing how I have never been apart of a surprise but always love the idea I was so thrilled and trying to make sure that everything went according to plan. Acting more like a Natzi by the second I was directing people all over the place. Everyone parked far away, the Balloons brought by Nate were flying High, the food prepared by Megan and Shawn was going perfectly. We sent Jack out to the store to get a few more supplies. Then we realized there was no rice which is a key part of the meal, so we called Jack (who was still in town). Jack decided to stop at Lee's and as luck would have it just as he is walking in my parents (my mom was keeping my dad occupied while we prepared the party) were walking out. AHHH!!! When I got this news from Jack over the phone I was crushed and in total disbelief. Luckily it still was a surprise because he didn't know there was a party he just thought it was us coming to surprise him. All in all a great success.

The Surprise

The Birthday Boys: Bryce and Harrison Bryce
You can guess who Harry's favorite person in the world is.

I love my dad, best dad ever.

The Presents

The gathering.
Me retelling the hilarious coincidence of Jack being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Out of all the stores in all the world... He walked into mine" (please tell me someone gets my humor :)

Treasured Moments

Making the Gyoza, Dad's favorite dish

Mom, Leticia, and sweet Baby Jane

I need to write a few things about Harry:

-Right now he wants to read books all the time, on average I read to him 40 times a day (not and exaggeration).

-He is trying to say everything.

-He never fails to fold his arms during a prayer. He also never fails to say "Dank You Mommy".

-He is Everett's shadow, they play really well right now and hardly fight (I know that it will only last for two seconds but I am enjoying those two seconds :)).

- The other day he was frustrated that Everett didn't want to play because Everett wanted to watch a movie, so Harry decided to lick his face, awesome.

- He has stopped taking naps on his own so I lay with him everyday and he immediately falls asleep. I love the time with him.

-He asks for "Treats" all the time

He is a wonderful little boy and we are eating up every moment with him.

The sweetest things in Life are hard but boy are they worth it and handsome too.

Karter with Grandpa, adorable.

Dad's Birthday gift.....Funny I got him the same Jacket in Blue. awesome. Really? How many coincidences can you have in a day?

Everett is a great helper....No really he opened every gift, Harry didn't mind.

A great day here at the Passey residence. Good food, good company, and really good looking Birthday Boys, it really doesn't get better than that! Happy Birthday Harry and Dad!

Flipping the Switch

2011-03-18T14:22:00.000-07:00

Let me explain the blog title. I was laying in bed last night and it popped into my head as the title for my next post, I really don't know why. I don't have any amazing 'Flipping the Switch' moments. So, here is to my 'Flipping the Switch' post, I will try and tie everything together.

Jack left Monday for AR-KanSas. I took the opportunity to visit my parents. My children had a wonderful time with Grandma and Grandpa Passey and I had a great time shopping with my little sister and catching up with my other little sis. I was also able to slip over and see Sharli with her adorable new baby (remember how she spent the night at my house on her due date? love her to pieces). Most beautiful baby ever, but I really didn't expect anything less. I love babies. All and all it was a good trip.

I came home Tuesday evening laid the kids down. While the boys slept I crept into Harry's room and stole 'Bobby' (his precious blanky) I then took it out to the garbage and threw it away (I have been wanting to do this for awhile, I feel like it's been keeping him a baby). Let me fill you in. He had to have "Bobby" (which was my old baby blanket) at all times. Bed, Car, Playing, Store....Everywhere!!! As nice as it was to have him just sit and suck his finger and be content, it really was time. He awoke at 5 am crying and looking for it.....I am a sucker. At 5 am I dug through the dumpster (well not really it was on top) and gave it to him. What we do for 3 more hours of sleep right? On Wednesday I managed to grab it again and it went deeper into the trash and has not resurfaced since....Nor will it. He has been doing pretty good he'll ask me "Bobby?" I respond with "No more Bobby, I threw it away becuase you are a big boy" too harsh? It really was not as bad as I thought it would be. My dad hurt his back and in doing so has to take a pillow everywhere he goes. He informed me that he named his pillow "Robert" and his big body pillow (that he has to sleep with) he named "Roberta" after our dear Harry. Well dad Harry no longer has his "Bobby" hopefully this will help you get rid of "Robert" and "Roberta the Mistress". :) I guess I flipped on my 'Take over Switch' and followed through with something I have been avoiding. Yay me!

Wednesday night I promised the boys that the next day I would take them to the park with Ice Cream! (This was my incentive for them to go to bed, which didn't happen until 9:30). Thursday morning we all got ready and then we realized that it was freezing outside and not even close to being a park day. But a promise is a promise.

(It was cold, notice my dash says 43 degrees)

We didn't last long due to Everett needing to use the bathroom that couldn't be done on a tree :) bummer. We returned later that day and it was actually pretty nice. Sometimes we have to flip on the 'What the Heck Switch' and I find when I do I am glad that I did.

Jack was due to return home late. After the kids went down I threw on my work-out clothes and cranked out some killer Abs while watching 'American Idol'. I have never been into that show but I am a total follower this year, love Jennifer, Love Steven, and I actually like Randy too. The Mr. walked in around 9:15 from an exhausting 4 day trip with a surprise for me. I love him.

Jack doesn't buy flowers on the 'typical occasions', I love it! It's always a complete surprise. So relieved to have him home. Flipped off the switch and hit a much needed deep sleep. :)

PHOTO of the Week brought to you by..."The Sleeping Boys"

Thier new favorite thing is to pretend they are asleep when I get them out of the shower. So funny, and I love it especially because they hold still while I dress them.

Pillows and Such

2011-03-13T20:49:00.000-07:00

Come on in. I have been working on this room for awhil now and I am proud to say that it is nearly finished. I love decorating. I must say I love everything in this room but my new favorite would have to be the rug. I have never in my life purchased a rug, but have always wanted one, and given their price I always talked myself out of it. Well, this was way to good of a price to pass up so we nabbed it and its fabulous.

A View from the front door

A veiw from the Kitchen entry way

(Also notice my yellow lamp, a DI score for $5 bucks. All it needed was a new lamp shade. I love it)

Pillows, Pillows, lots and lots of pillows. It's amazing how much they brighten a room.

( This is my favorite pillow if you couldn't tell)

My friend taught me how to do these flowers and I love them, especially on the pillows.

A new kitchen table. We have been looking for one for awhile now. We sadly grew out of our table that only seated four. We found a new one and we love it. It seats eight comfortably and when you insert the leaf it seats tTEN. It feels good to actually own something that we can grow into. Now we need to work on getting some chairs, but after searching for some and internet shopping I just might cover my chairs with padding and fabric. I am crazy enough. I am just having a hard time spending twice as much money for the chairs as we did on our table....We'll see what happens. In addition to the living room rug we also got one for the Kitchen, it was normally $400 we got it for $30 (really I couln't pass up that right?)

I really have been spoiled. But it just so happened that we stumbled upon these things around the same time and we couldn't pass up the deals. So that is what I have been busy doing, among all of the other mother, and wifely duties. We are all loving the weather being warmer and seriously summer can't come soon enough.

Never again...

2011-03-10T14:22:00.000-08:00

I am sitting here waiting for Harry to wake up so we can get out and enjoy the 60 degree weather at the park. But, alas he is fast asleep (he never has a problem taking a nap).

Today has consisted of me running double the distance I have run thus far. whew a whopping 5 miles. I told Jack before I left "Do you think I should run to challenger?" (the furthest I have gone is to Challenger and back about 2.5 miles round trip). When I got to Challenger I decide instead of turning around I would run up the hill to 13th and then back along that road to my house. Let me just say I wasn't even out of breath and if it wasn't for my leg feeling like Jello I could have kept going fo another 2 miles at least. Very proud of me today. Of course now I have zero energy to take care of my children. Oh, the sacrifices we have to make to stay in shape right? I am not even trying to stay in Shape I am trying to get into shape...so frustrating.

Then I ventured back over to JoAnn's (was there yesterday, for some supplies) to get some trim for my 'PiLLoW Project.' Can I just say that I have never in my life disliked a store more in my entire life. Each time I go I am in a bad mood when I leave. The workers there are always in the worst mood possible, they act annoyed when you need their help (especially the cutting counter) and do I need to mention that they don't even know what they are doing? They move so incredibly slow all the while checking their watches every 30 seconds to see how much closer their break is. AHHHH!!!! I can't even stand it! I am getting angry just writing this! So, as I left there today I vowed to never return. I don't even care if they have their coupons cause guess what? Hancock Fabrics take all of JoAnn's coupons I love them, of course they are a lot further from me but it's worth it. There. I said my piece. For the record this is how every JoAnn's store has acted to me. Whatever. Too bad they hate their jobs.

Here is a picture so those of you who love posts with pictures (me) are happy!

(I just love Jack's face in this Photo)
Stay tuned for an upcoming post of lots of PilloWs.....

I've lost you.

2011-03-07T14:32:00.000-08:00

Alright. It has come to my attention that I am missing out on some blogs who have gone private. I redid my blog and with it went most of my 'private blog' info. I would name names but I am not going to be so brash as that.....(Angie, Bekah....Annie to name a few). Here is my email sarahroberts6707@gmail.com Lets get this over with so I can check in on you guys! THanx!

Beauty in Stripes

2011-03-05T10:53:00.000-08:00

I sunk my teeth into another project (I know I can't help myself). It all started when I was thrifting through our local D.I. and I came upon a beauty with just the right price tag on it $5. Well of course I had to buy it because even if it didn't turn out it was only 5 bucks. The process was nasty. Taking apart the chair is the biggest pain ever! It usually takes me twice as long to remove the fabric as it does to re-fabric the entire chair. So with blood, sweat, tears, and blisters (no really there was blood, and lots of blisters) here is the sweet unveiling of the my Beauty in Stripes. I wish I had more pictures of the journey. But, remember the last project? Let's just say we are lucky we got a before picture.

Before

(Sorry about the blurriness. I would love recommendations for a new camera)

After

It passed the comfort test...serisouly it needs to be comfortable right?

Now onto making amazing pillows to adorn this chair and the rest of my house

Photo of the week brought to you by the Three Amigos

Love these three to pieces.

I also must say, I did this chair while Jack was gone. I love surprising him when he comes home.

Crazy

2011-02-27T08:41:00.000-08:00

Friday was craziness. I think I would have loved it even more if I was able to squeeze in a run. Darn. I hate missing my runs. Our search for a kitchen table ended in no kitchen table. bummer,( I am super picky about this one) But, despite the failed attempt at finding a table, there were three favorite things about my day.

First favorite thing: On our rush back to get home before we were to leave for favorite thing # TwO Jack tells me he has a surprise for me, and it happens to be near our home. He pulls into a place calle "Pirate O's" it's a gourmet market. This could be bad, no this is very bad, it is filled with all of our favorite british treats, cheeses, and food. LOVE IT! Eight dollars worth of chocolate later we were out the door and racing home to get ready for....

Second favorite: We have some awesome friends who we switch off babysitting to go to the temple. Friday night was our night to go and we were so excited. Mostly for the fact that I have no been in a long time and the last time we were supposed to go we had to do grocery shopping instead. First let me just say, it is usually both parents. So, when Bekah showed up on her own with not only her daughter but also her sisters little girl too, I was shocked. If it were me I would have canceled, not Bekah, she is super woman. So, we left her with our three crazy children making it 5 children three and under. Again, she is amazing. The temple was just what the doctor ordered. We went to the Draper Temple which was exactly 8 min. from us. It was perfect.

Third favorite: We got home to find our house was clean (alright that is just crazy right? She's amazing) and the kids in bed. We then vacuumed and clean to prepare for some friends to come with thier twin girls to spend the night (Sharli and I have been friends since Kindergarten and it helps that our husbands talk on the phone more than we do). They came by at about 11:00 pm. We all hit the sack at 2am. Oh, sure did forget to mention that it was also Sharli's due date. yeah. She lives in Logan and was spending the night at my home on her due date. Crazy! She is amazing and the most calm and paitent person I know. Love her. In the morning we stuffed our faces full of whole wheat waffles and my carmel syrup (which I am still trying to perfect) and then they were off. It was a great two days completely full. Oh, and while we were vacuuming earlier that night our vacuum blew out. awesome. Bought a new vacuum last night and its dusgusting what it picked up off my presumably clean carpets. sick.

Now its sunday, I have two little babies sleeping while Jack went to church with Everett. It's better to let them sleep a little today, not a regular thing we do.

Awesome Moment of the week brought to you buy EVERETT: Everett "Mom, I know...I know" Me, "You know what sweetie?"
Everett, "I know, I listen to my heart and I just know"
Me choked up and can hardly speak "I'm so glad you know"
Everett, "Yeah, when you are mad you have a broken heart, and we should only have love in our hearts"
Me, I am shocked and presume he learned this from church so I say "did you learn that from church?
Everett, "No, from Princess and the Frog"
Even though it wasn't from church, nice going Princess and the Frog! Love that kid, as crazy as he makes me, I do love him to pieces.

Photo of the week brought to you by -

THE BoYs
(Remembering warmer days and missing them terribly)

Inches,Garbages, and Headbangers

2011-02-23T13:59:00.000-08:00

I have started working out. I am on week ThRee of running everyday, and I feeling pretty good. It would be shocking to some to find out that I don't own a scale, I never have. I have never trusted the scale. The scale to me doesn't say that I look good. My clothes however do, oh, and my trusty 'Tape Measurer'

(It works for me, its a love hate relationship for sure)
The other day we were driving through construction and there was a lot of heavy machinery. So, Jack says: "I think that is called a 'Backhoe' "

I respond, with a laugh "I don't think so"

Jack "Yeah, I think it is called that. Do you want to 'wager' on it?"

Me: "Okay if you're wrong you have to take all the chicken off the bone (tacito night, I hate that job)

Jack's reply "Okay and if you're wrong than you have to bring in the garbage cans off the street"

Well, it was called a 'Backhoe', uh, smart Jack. So not only did I have to take the chicken off the bone, I also had to haul the garbage cans off the street. But, it wasn't so bad thanks to my helper. I was stunned when this little guy pulled this garbage can from the street, through a gate, around two corners, and finally to the back porch. It was awesome, I couldn't believe how well he did. Child slavery! Hooray!

Awesome Picture of the week brought to you by "Jane Headbanger"

(Could nibble those cheeks all day, and usually do)

"Muchness"

2011-02-18T22:49:00.000-08:00

It is late again. I really am not a night owl. I have tried explaining to Jack that the only reason I stay up late when he is gone is because I am scared and its when he is home (when he wants to always stay up late) that I relax and then get tired earlier and want to turn in around 9:00 pm (no really I would go to bed that early every night). Jack is at a movie with a friend tonight, so I am waiting until he gets home. So, I'll type.

The other day Everett and I were watching 'Alice and Wonderland' (the new one with Johnny Depp, love him). My favorite part of the movie is when he tells Alice that she has lost her "Muchness" I think we all can relate to losing our "Muchness" right? Well it got me thinking to what my "Muchness" is. This is what I think: My "Muchness" is when I feel like no one can bring me down. I am happy, confident, and I Know exactly what I want in life. Now, having said that it is so easy to lose our "Muchness" the pestering feelings of doubt seem to take over and then we lose it, just like that. Oh, "Muchness" is much needed in all of our lives. Let's hold onto our "Muchness" for in Alice in Wonderland it was only when she found her "Muchness" that she could slay the 'Bandersnatch'.

My friend posts "Awkward moments" on her blog and I am not trying to copy her but really this one was embarassing! Hope you enjoy:

Last night we went on a date. Jack and I were celebrating Valentines and were so excited to go and try a new restraunt "Tuscany." Food was good, super overpriced (which we knew going into it) but again, we wanted a new experience and it was fun. Afterwards we decided to hit up Nordstrom Rack, we were walking around when we walked by a couple and the girl says
"Oh my gosh, Jack? Sarah?" Seriously she looked so familiar and I had no clue from where. We tried playing cool I said:
"Oh, my gosh! How are you?" (yeah no name okay, I really had no clue)
No name says: "I can't believe its been so long since SUU"
I'm scrambling I then remember! 7 years ago she and I were kinda friends (never close) but she was adorable. So I start talking of the good old days in Cedar (still can't remember her name) She introduced us to her husband. I am still panicked and feel like a total goon. It's not like I could use Jack to get her name she knew us both so we were both stuck not knowing. We sat and talked to them for about 15 minutes (seemed like an hour) she was shocked that I had three kids (most people are) and then we parted. But before we did she told me that we could keep in touch through facebook. I casually said "Please! find me on facebook". So today, I go to my facebook account and sure enough she did invite me as a friend and her name is......drumroll......SARAH! Awesome. I honestly hate that! But really Jack and I have been all over the place and we run into so many people who know us and I have the hardest time pinning a name to a face. not cool

Photo of the WeeK brought to you by Harry:

Help Yourself to some CHeesE.

Valentines, runny noses, and new hair

2011-02-15T11:00:00.001-08:00

I had known for awhile that I would be alone on Valentines. I really didn't care. Not like we were going out anyway right? ha. Besides we spent friday celebrating with Everett because of his school party and then another Valentine's party at Jack's parents on sunday, sadly without Jack. Jack had to fly out Sunday and would be home late Tuesday night. I really was not bothered in any way, shape or form that I would be alone. It's like any other day right? wrong. I had a horrible night sleep and awoke to cranky kids with never ending runny noses. I skipped on showering, because I really wanted to hop on the Elipitcal (I usually run, but when Jack is gone that is the only option). So, between Harry who was in destruct mode and Jane who wouldn't sleep for longer than 20 mins. and Everett who was asking 5 million questions. I was burnt out by 11:00 am. Honestly. I was in total 'Bad Mood mode'. You would of thought that the three surprise visits from cute women in my ward would have made me feel better. Not in the least. I was without a shower remember? The house was a mess, and I hate my house not looking good for company and I double hate me looking nasty when company comes over. To add to the list they sure did bring amazing cookies, which the boys and me devoured. great. Remember my plan to get on the Eliptical? By 4:00 I was depressed, and was wondering if 5:00 was too early to put the kids to bed. ha. Instead we went and got some burgers (did not go inside, I'm insane, but I am not that crazy) We came home ate them up and then baths it was! The boys laughed uncontrollably in the bath because they discovered the bubbles in the water when they 'toot' gross, gross, gross but I couldn't help but laugh to myself. Book time and then on to the 'Tiger Game' which lasted about three seconds due to the fact that Jane was really confused and concerned for my safety. Our final 'new nighttime' routine now consists of all of us laying in Everett's bed while he tells us stories. It was magical, and lifted my spirits. I love my children.

Exhausted at 7:00 pm with the kids in bed I flung myself on the Eliptical and pounded my hardest. The events of the day were discouraging and well, sometimes we get in bad moods right? I called Jack (who I hadn't heard from all day, except for a sweet text earlier in the morning) and was disappointed when he 'couldn't talk right now' and would 'call me later'. Thanks babe, its only Valentines day and I am alone and you don't have the time? I was right back in my bad mood. He did however tell me that his meeting was canceled tomorrow so he would be able to get an earlier flight back home the next day. awesome. but still a little bugged. After 2 hours of watching HGTV. I still hadn't heard from Jack and started to really get irritated and worried. Really? Why would you not be able to call me right now? its like 11:00 in Dallas! uh. Then I got a text that said "I can't talk right now everything is okay." Alright, whatev. I'm tired. It's been a long and exhausting day so I cleaned up a bit and decided to go to bed. As I was cleaning the house at 11:54 p.m. in walked my Valentine the most beautiful sight I had ever seen, and just in time for Valentines Day.

Happy Valentines day!

new hair

In Logan Today

2011-02-12T08:18:00.000-08:00

I am writing from Logan today. Last night we saw Jay Richards production of "The Music Man" aside from the wonderful cast and Jays wonderful directing, the costumes were amazing. My mom Costumed the entire show, and though she will tell you that it wasn't "all her" she still was amazing and I was very proud.

(never mind the wrangler man in the back. We took a few shots to avoid him. But alas, there he is.)

I have many emotions coming home. I am the type that wants to see every single family member of mine and well, just give the biggest hugs possible. As an adult is the only time I have had a normal relationship with my older siblings and I love seeing them and catching up.

It was so nice to bump (literally bump) into my best friend who is two weeks away from having her 3rd baby. Her other two little girls are twins and are not even Two. So, I thought I had it crazy having three under the age three, well she will have three under the age of two. She is amazing, we have known each other since we were in kindergarten. Its so fun to grow up with some one and see where their lives have gone. Through the years she is the only friend who has always remembered my birthday and I her. We were the "Little Match Girl" together, our coveted role and we got to share it together. Love her. Wonderful memories.

So, Logan was good. My dad loved playing with the kids all night while we took our date. I think me and all my children are allergic to the animal hair. We all have runny noses which we did not have yesterday. yuck. Gotta run Everett just found a spider, time for 'super mom' (no really I hate hate spiders so this really is a 'super mom' moment for me)

A Little Touch

2011-02-07T20:58:00.000-08:00

Another addition to the new chair in the front room is our very first FaMiLy portrait. I am so thrilled with how it turned out. It also helps distract from the enormous rock fireplace. I love it. Slowly but surely I am decorating my house after living in it for 3 months. I really haven't felt like decorating, I mean this is my 8th time decorating. But, I am really loving it. A few more touches and I will be done with this room, then its on to other parts of my house.
I also finished this years silhouettes. The old ones are hanging in the children's rooms the beginning of charting their growth

A picture from today's Munch time

Awesome moment of the DaY: Jack, is notorious for teaching the kids weird/gross stuff! So, today Jack told Everett to smell under his arm (stinky, no shower, and just worked out) Everett smells it and goes "That's stinky!" We all laughed. Two minutes later Everett is walking towards Harry saying "Harry, smell my 'Arm Breath'" then starts to chase him. awesome. hilarious. If you are stinky on your arms it is apparently called 'Arm Breath' brilliant name right? haha. Gross boys.

Project NuMero UNO

2011-02-05T16:26:00.001-08:00

Alright. I really want to document these projects I have been doing. So, I bit the bullet and bought batteries for my camera (I have rechargeable ones, but couldn't find the thing that charges them!) So, here it is the before and after of my reupholstered chair. I am so bad at taking pictures I really wish I had taken pictures of the journey, maybe next time. I really had to dig into my pictures and find this one from Jane's blessing.

BeFORE

Background on this chair: Our awesome neighbors in Kaysville (Messels) gave us this chair. Most people would think this chair is ugly but us "thrifters" think its a jewel. Especially when you see it now! Thank You MesselS!

AfTeR

Seriously! I have never been so proud of something ever! (except for delivering three children) Honestly, it was crazy. The main thing that led to the success of this chair was to not rush it. There were times I wanted to throw the whole thing out the window, that is when I had to walk away for a couple of days. I am so excited to do more projects like it. I saw a big guy in a furniture place once reupholstering a chair and I thought 'Goodness, if a big old guy can do it so can I" and here you go. I am pleased. My best friend Betsy was also another inspiration to me, she does amazing stuff with furniture. Whew. Mission accomplished.

The funny things kids say.

2011-02-04T20:29:00.000-08:00

Today was a good day, I got to spend a good portion with Jack which made me happy. The kids were great and really? Could I ask for more?

Awesome moment of the day: We were all in the car heading down to Zupa's for dinner. When Jack said something to Everett but did not call him 'Everett' he called him 'Ev'.
Everett then says "Dad, don't call me Ev my name is Everett"
Jack who loves to tease says "Okay, EV!"
With a prompt response from Everett "Don't call me Ev, call me Everett"
Jack still teasing says "Okay EVY!"
Everett: "Don't call me 'Evy' either just Everett! End of Story!"

Let me just say cutest kid ever! We all busted up laughing, I honestly don't know where he gets his little humor but we love it.

It's Late...

2011-02-02T22:14:00.000-08:00

It's 12:45 am. I am usually the one who is passed out by ten. Not tonight. I am drinking in the fact that I actually have a husband sleeping next to me tonight. Jack has been gone all week and was gone last week too. I don't know how single mothers do it, there for sure is a special place in heaven for them. Jack travels a lot. I am not complaining. I miss him like crazy and last week was awful and I actually couldn't help but think that I was done having kids. That was last week. This week was amazing. The kids were awesome and we had a wonderful time. We missed daddy, but I filled in on all of his fatherly duties like playing 'Tiger' just before bed. We all get on our hands and knees and chase each other eating/tickling. Its a hoot.

Jane is finally sleeping through the night at 8 months old. We have seriously not slept for a year. I finally was so fed up that I told Jack (we are both softies) that no matter what we do not pick her up in the night. So, last week we were letting her cry it out when Jack goes in and grabs Everett (they share a room, Harry is by himself) because he felt sorry for Everett to have to listen to her cry. To our amazement she did cry it out and then did not wake until morning. LIGHT BULB!!! BING!!! It's not that she is a bad sleeper she is a LiGhT SleEPER! Everett is a noisy sleeper! He makes tons of noises in the night which I experienced first hand. So, anytime he would make a noise it would wake her up. Now, Everett and Harry sleep together and they are either yelling at each other before bed or they are laughing uncontrollably. Life is so much better when you can sleep through the night.

Projects. When Jack is away I throw myself into projects so not to feel so lonely. It's working. I really wish our camera worked, I am really tired of not having pictures to back up my writings. I have so far, reupholstered a chair, finished our silhouettes, almost finished decorating the living room, and started decorating the kids rooms. But, I am also really thrifty and do things for way little cost, that is really half the fun! Finishing a project and feeling like it looks so expensive and would have been except I did it myself. I will post pictures eventually....maybe tomorrow, we'll see.

Everett is still loving school I love sending him off and picking him up, its the cutest thing ever. Harry adores Everett and wants to be like him. The conflict in our house is due to the fact that Harry just wants to do everything Everett does. I have had to explain to Everett just how cool he is that Harry wants to be like him. We're working on it.

Jane: seriously, when you pick her up out of her crib she grins so big she just might explode. I am so in love with this little girly of mine.

I need to keep up on my daily interactions with these little guys they are hilarious.

Awesome moment of the Day: Everett and Harry playing 'Puppies' while I fed them puppy treats (cookies) and Jack coming home.

Not so Awesome: My best friend Betsy (love her to pieces) having to fish a nasty peed nasty diaper out of the toilet that Harry threw in. I heard her say "Oh, no" I called from the kitchen "What????" Sweet Betsy: "Nothing, everything is fine" me:"no really what?" Betsy:"Harry just threw a pee soaked diaper in the toilet and was playing with it". I just love how casual she was with the whole thing.

Betsy: She is an awesome friend and we are on the same page when it comes to a ton of things. We love vintage style and we are not afraid to get our hands dirty sifting through nasty stuff to find it. We rock. She's amazing.

Jack: He loves his job and really we are so grateful for this job. We love our little family and are seriously just hanging on for the ride. Life is crazy, and apparently in our case it gets crazier and crazier by the second.

Hold The Phone!

2011-01-14T18:57:00.001-08:00

I didn't say I was not going to write anymore! Also, thank you for the comments. I have talked with many people about this issue (blog life) and it intrigued me so I thought I would write about it. I am not grumpy and unhappy as some of you may think, remember my voice when you read and you will get a different story. I think you are all awesome and I love reading your blogs. I have been sticking to my internet time only at night and I am loving it. I am way less distracted during the day.

On other news. I had my voice lesson today by the wonderful Jennifer-Welch Babige (you can google her, she is amazing) Holy Smokes! I am exhausted, who knew that after many years of vocal training I really don't know how to sing. I am excited to move forward with her as my teacher! amazing.

Other, other news. I drove home to find a not so amused Jack as he thought Harry was napping and decided to peak in on him (we love looking at our sleeping children) but rather he wasn't napping at all he was actually butt naked smearing pooh all over, reading Everett's favorite book. Honestly. We don't know where this kid came from. He loves not having clothes on at the moment. I often find him walking around without a shirt on. crazy.

Moving Forward.

2011-01-13T19:07:00.000-08:00

2011 is starting out amazingly. Everday is new, everyday is an adventure and we are having fun. I think the past year finally got me down. Now, that year is over and I am exicited to move forward from here. My last post was a vent of frustration for me and others who I know sometimes feel like it is too hard to be positive when you are having a hard time. But, having said that I am feeling great about the progress our family has made.

Everett just started Pre-School and is loving every minute of it. I am so amazed at how old he is! On his first day of school he was the first one there and he walks right in and says "Hi Mrs. Hammer!" and proceeds to walk in then he suddenly stops and says "Wait a minute!" he then turns around and walks to the door mat and wipes his feet. Love him. Everytime I pick him up I ask how his day was he says "Good, there were GiRls there again" I can't tell if he likes girls or not but he always lets me know that they were there. cute.

Harry, he is an amazing kid. Jack and I can't figure him out. He has a funny sense of humor, never ceasing to put on a show and make us laugh.

Jane is beautiful and almost sitting up on her own. She is so much fun!

Tomorrow I am having my first voice lesson in many many years. I am nervous. But I am so excited to proceed forward into a life long dream of mine of starting a career in music.

2011 is going to be great (I've said that many times I know) but I really hope for the best.
Jack is doing a great with his new Job. We are so grateful for a good job.

Good-bye Blogging....

2011-01-10T14:54:00.000-08:00

I just wrote a post about shutting down my blog for good. After a long conversation with Jack, this is my conclusion and these are my feelings.

Blog Life: To me the blog world has many emotions. Let me try and explain; sometimes it feels like a huge "popularity contest" consisting of', "Look at the amazing things I have accomlished!" or, "Look at the incredible vacations we are taking!", and my favorite, "We are so blessed in every way possible!". Does anyone else feel this way? I am confused because it seems to me there is a "false reality" when it comes to The Blog. Don't get me wrong I love 'GOOD NEWS!!' I am the Queen of let me hear good news rather than bad, but sometimes it seems to go beyond just 'good news'. We always try and put our BeSt FooT forward, because we need to let everyone know that life is 'so good'. I felt like I was no longer up to the task of reading "perfect blogs" and I definitely didn't fit into the "perfect wife/mom blog" category. There are blogs that really do build me up and inspire me. I think there is an incredible support system for those who are willing to share hardships. But I think it can also be a place where people don't feel like what they are doing in their life is good enough. Let's face it we are human and we love to compare ourselves to each other. I am making new changes in my life for 2011 and on. I am cutting a lot of technology out of it. I don't like the gravitational pull that is attached to my chest pulling me towards the "computer" or "TV". I want to enjoy real life, my real life. When we feel constantly compelled to go online and surf, blog, facebook, and email it takes away moments we could be having with those we love. It also distracts us from what is going on immediately around us. Since when did our world become so connected (through Internet) and disconnected at the same time? There is a major "imbalance" and I'm not even saying there needs to be a balance at all. Life should consist of (in my book) 90% real living and 10% technology. I have decided I am only going online at night when my kids are in bed, and only for basic things. My focus needs to be on my family not on everyone else's. I am going to keep blogging but it is whenever I feel like I want to. Do I sound crazy? This post may seem like extreme but I am not writing it for me as much as I am for many others out there who feel the same way. I have been mulling this over in my mind for a week now and I finally feel like I am progressing into a good place with this. Over and out.

Slow down.

2010-12-28T21:12:00.000-08:00

Well the holidays are over. I am sad. But also excited to share more holiday traditions with my kids. Christmas this year was by far the best we have had in awhile. On Christmas Everett was so excited to open presents, Harry was so excited to take away the presents Everett just opened and Jane she slept.

We spent Christmas Eve with Jack's parents. We had a fun nativity with all the cousins and talent night, consisting of Dave's crazy dance, Luke and Mason singing jingle bells, and my Everett singing Rudolph the Red Nosed Riendeer. Which he sings "Rudolph the Other Reindeer Nose" awesome. We spent Christmas Day with my family and enjoyed the freezing temperatures of Logan :). Funny story: My dad made the boys a play room up on their spare bedroom complete with a tent and a big Train Track. We laid the boys down for the night and as always listened to them play around for awhile. After about an hour and still no sleeping I decided to check on them. What I found was Harry covered in Cat litter and pooh, chucking handfuls of kitty litter on Everett and Everett throwing cat food.... My dad forgot to take the kitty's litter box out of the closet and you can be sure Harry will find and destroy anything. I asked Everett, "Why did you throw Cat food?" (he knows better) This is what he said
"Mom, Harry was throwing sand at me and Pooh" Poor kid had to defend himself right? nice.

So here I am. Pooped. My socks are wet from the wet carpet in our basemet. We have a broken water heater and are now without hot water until the plumber comes and replaces it. sweet. I am missing my bath right now.

The new year is fast approaching. yikes. I have many plans for 2011 one of them being to be more Christ like. I know that sounds cheesey, but I think its something we forget to do.

Some Holiday Cheer from Us To YOU.

2010-12-21T18:59:00.000-08:00

Every year Jack writes a Christmas story. I look forward to all of his writings especially at Christmas. He is so wonderful and so talented I don't know where he gets this talent to write but I love it! I am so blessed to be apart of his life. We hope you enjoy this story this holiday season and keep the true meaning of christmas in your hearts.

A Ginger Christmas

By: Jack Roberts

Every Christmas inside the cozy town of St. Lucia was a bake off. Baker’s both young and old, male and female, beginners and veterans, prepared their best holiday dish which was then auctioned to provide food and gifts for those in need. It was a town tradition that brought the community together and ignited the hearts of all with the true meaning of Christmas; well, at least in theory.
The bake off had a variety of categories: pies, cakes, cookies, brownies, and fudge. But the most coveted and anticipated category of them all was the gingerbread houses. These “houses” or more accurately named “fashions of architecture” demanded elaborate creativity, meticulous skill, and technical engineering. People poured hundreds of hours and dollars into these works of art. The results were astounding, and businesses paid big bucks for the winners. Annmarie Benton had won it for the last five years in a row.
It wasn’t Annmarie’s husband being the town’s mayor, or her four perfectly behaved and honor roll children; nor was it her stately house, shiny Mercedes, and two golden retrievers that made Maggie green in envy. Perhaps it wasn’t her perky and trimmed body (that she somehow managed after her children), or her perfectly placed blonde hair, glowing smile, and designer clothes that breathed just enough skin to distract the men of St. Lucia. No, those things didn’t make Maggie jealous; or just maybe they did.
For every Annmarie in a town there’s a Maggie. Maggie was plain no matter how hard she tried to stay pretty. Her body, worn and battered by two difficult pregnancies, was now shapeless and unattractive. The house, a wreck, was held together by her will alone, while her now teenage kids came and went as they pleased. As for her high school sweetheart Greg, he was chubby, lazy, and now content with his marginally paying job. As far as Maggie was concerned, her hopes and dreams of a better life was non-existent – or just maybe that’s all she saw.
It was November first, the morning after Halloween. Maggie pushed the squeaky shopping cart through the aisles of the supermarket putting in her list of groceries one by one. Next on the list: paper towels. Maggie turned into aisle eight where she expected to find a row of wrapped towels, but instead there stood Annmarie, and of course she looked incredible.
“Oh hi, Maggie,” Annmarie said happily.
Forcefully, Maggie grinned and quickly looked down at her grocery list.
“How was your Halloween?” Annmarie asked.
Maggie kept walking, “Fine and dandy.”
The cart squeaked past Annmarie.
“How’s Greg?”
Maggie rolled her eyes. “Oh you know Greg.”
Ann laughed. “You married one funny guy. Everyone just loves Greg.”
Maggie forced a laugh. “Sure did.”
The cart squeaked around the corner.
Maggie drove from the supermarket straight to the city building and registered herself for the bake off: gingerbread house category. Maggie had never built a gingerbread house before, but determination replaced envy and she was set on winning that blue ribbon come hell or high water.
“Don’t get me wrong honey,” Greg began. “I think it’s great that you want to win this. But, don’t you remember what kind of gingerbread houses win? They’re like Buckingham Palace these things! I’m not kidding, I remember one that had gold and silver laced frosting on it. Gold and silver frosting! Now, where in the world are you going to get something like that?”
Maggie’s face was red. “Of course you think I can’t do it. You’ve never won anything in your life!”
Maggie went to work, day in and day out trying to create a masterpiece good enough to compete with Annmarie’s past designs. She scoured the internet looking through photos and “how to” articles. Next, she began drafting her designs to the exact dimensions and ingredients down to the last gum drop. At last, she created a design, if done right, could win the whole thing. Now, it was time to get started.
Brian and Jill walked in from school. Jill had on her headphones and headed straight to her room. Brian threw his backpack on the floor of the kitchen. “Is that gingerbread dough?”
“Yeah,” Maggie replied kneading her hands through a thick slab of brown dough.
“Dad said you signed up for the bake off. Need some help?”
Maggie reached for the rolling pin. “Ha!” she cried. “Not if I want to win. Plus, your room’s a mess. I need to you clean it pronto. And, for the hundredth time, hang up your backpack!”
Maggie took her time with each step of her masterpiece. Refusing to rush any detail, she would take an entire day and work one window until it was perfect. Every day she would work slowly and surely. Never before had she had such focus, such complete concentration. As she progressed through each stage of the gingerbread house a greater sense of confidence and ownership in her abilities began pouring in. It was like a well of inspiration had opened up in her mind, and she only had to heave up the buckets that were overfilled and pour it into the masterpiece. Likewise, her hands, not accustomed to intricate and precise movement, took on a painters touch: delicate yet powerful, steady yet flexible, swift yet defined. Maggie was in the zone.
“You should’ve seen Caroline’s house. It was a disaster! There wasn’t a straight or even wall on the entire thing. I didn’t even know what to say about it,” Maggie announced.
Greg scratched his head. “Really? So what did you say?”
“I told her she has a lot of work to do if she wants to compete in this. I just can’t believe she been doing this for the past three years and her basic structure is so bad. She went on with all these plans with a ginger garage and a ginger car. Kind of tacky, don’t ya’ think?”
“I know honey, but not everyone is set on creating glass stained murals for windows.”
Maggie sighed. “We’ll it’s her own fault. She said her walls are uneven because her daughters did them. Why would anyone let their eleven year old twins set their foundation? It’s like she’s content with mediocrity.”
Greg shook his head. “Maggie, it sounds like Caroline is enjoying this with her family. Who cares if her walls are uneven, at least they’re having a good time.”
“Then have the kids do a house for themselves. This bakeoff isn’t about crummy houses that kids slap together; it’s about raising money for people in need. Who’s going to spend money on a gingerbread house that looks like a mess?”
“So this is about winning for the needy?”
“What did you think I was doing it for?” Maggie snapped.
“Well, to win – have someone finally beat Annmarie.”
Maggie’s lips tightened and her eyebrows furrowed.
“I think it would be nice if we could do one together as family,” Greg replied quickly.
“I don’t have the luxury to do another one, Greg. How about you get involved and do one with the kids.”
There was two weeks left until the bakeoff. Maggie had made good progress but she still had a lot of detailing that needed to be done: the roof needed shingles, walls needed texturing, and not to mention that nothing had been frosted. Panic began swelling in Maggie.
The day before, Maggie had spent all day working on a type of gingerbread clay that she was going to use for texturing the walls of her home. It took three batches but finally she had gotten it right. That morning, however, her magnificent veranda had cracked and was slowly sliding off her home. All day was spent fixing and perfecting that important piece.
After dinner, Maggie went to Lisa Jorgensen’s who was showing her how to make a unique frosting that was moldable. Lisa had long been a gingerbread artist and judge but had since retired when she was put in charge of the entire bake off.
Christmas music filled the home when Maggie got back. Kicking her slush coated boots off at the door, she smiled at the sounds of laughter coming from the kitchen. Entering, the sight was picture perfect: her two kids and husband building a crude gingerbread house as a family. Maggie was touched, and wished, if only for a second, that she hadn’t ostracized herself in recommending they do it without her. But that special moment was soon crushed by one awful question that came as a bolt of lightning: Where did they get the gingerbread dough?
Greg spent that night sleeping on the couch. But not because Maggie demanded that he do, but because he fell asleep watching TV. He woke around midnight, but realized he had a good excuse to not have to go back and sleep next to a grouchy Maggie.
Maggie, on the other hand, felt more alone than ever. After belittling Greg in front of the kids for a half hour for using her precious dough, she paced around in her room mulling over her frustrations and waiting to grill Greg even more. But Greg fell asleep and Maggie was alone – like she had been for the past month.
The two weeks went by and Maggie’s gingerbread house was incredible. It was an original masterpiece with a perfect blend of creative imagination, and intricate details mixed with complex architecture. She had surprised not only Greg and the kids, but she surprised herself. With the competition in two days, she would have time to rest up and be ready.
The day of the entries had come. Arriving at the convention center people milled back and forth making every last detail of their gingerbread houses just right. Maggie knew she’d be distracted by the houses of everyone else, so she took care to focus only on making her display perfect first, then she’d be able to scrutinize the entries of the others. Her table was number 7 out of 42 entries. She cleaned it, prepped it with a crimson velvet cloth and then brought in her masterpiece. Although her will to avoid outside distractions was strong, she couldn’t help but notice the awe’s and finger pointing of the entire room as she carefully brought in her gingerbread house. The house was positioned, and then most gingerly, it was set. Just a few final touches and it was, as Maggie had dreamt – perfect.
Maggie turned, all around her was gathered a group of people mesmerized by her creation. They adored her with complements and promises of winnings and flooded her with questions of design and style. Maggie couldn’t hold back her smile; she beamed.
“The judging will take place in five minutes,” a voice declared over the intercom. “Please take your places by your allotted table.”
Maggie’s admirers scattered, except for one. Annmarie stood smiling in a lush dress hugging her curves like an hour glass. Maggie’s smile faded.
“I am so impressed, Maggie. That is one of the most beautiful houses I have ever seen.” She extended a hand. “Best of luck.”
So she respects me now that I’m a threat. Maggie thought shaking her hand.
The judging began. A panel of five judges took a minute at each table. Each judge judged one specific piece of the house with a combined total of 50 points possible. Being table #7, Maggie watched the judges begin. Her heart fluttered; she could win this.
A slight movement caught Maggie’s eye. Glancing downward she saw an impossible sight: a giant crack split through the cooked gingerbread from the bottom of her house up through the chimney. Stunned, Maggie stood frozen. How could this have happened? She prepared the dough so thoroughly and cooked it so accordingly as to avoid any probability of this happening. The roof tilted suddenly, undoubtedly caused from the crack, and Maggie instinctively reached out to prevent any further shifts. Adrenaline, panic, and fear swept through Maggie like an easterly wind, and her typical surgeon-like hands which had always proved steady crashed against the house caving in the walls. In a flash, her masterpiece was in ruin.
Maggie opened her mouth to scream but nothing came out. This was beyond nightmare, this was unthinkable. Before Maggie could try and piece the pieces back in place the panel of judges stood before her devastation and sadly disqualified her entry.
Friends and strangers gave their heartfelt apologies, but they fell on deaf ears. Maggie was shattered. All her work, and time, and care! Whatever authentic aspirations Maggie had convinced herself of why she was working so hard proved erroneous as the pit that now sat in her gut was deep and empty. Maggie knew the bake off hadn’t been about the people benefiting from the auctioned goods, although she did like having a plus side, it had always been about proving something to herself; that she was talented, ambitious, and her self-worth was more than cooking dinners and doing the laundry. Somewhere, over the years of being mom, her vision of reality had been altered – seeing life through tired and worn out glasses that revealed the worse of everyone, including herself.
She dumped her crumbled masterpiece in the garbage and headed for the car. But something else caught her eye on her way out; a crudely made gingerbread house standing crookedly on a familiar platter, with the three most beautiful people she had ever seen standing behind it.
Maggie didn’t walk away empty handed that night. In fact, their simple family-made gingerbread house was auctioned off as the second most expensive gingerbread house of the night! The buyer who paid the generous amount just happened to have also won the competition for the sixth straight year in a row.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Love: The Roberts Family

Around The CoRnEr

2010-12-20T22:30:00.001-08:00

I can't believe Christmas is here! There is no excuse for me not writing more, I really wish I had a good one. Life is very good. I am going to write about my crazy munchkins today, considering they take up every last second of my day.

***

Let's start with, they are crazy! Everett and Harry are in the most frustrating stage. It is constant time out for both of them and tantrums non-stop. Honestly, they are for sale. It's crazy how they go in phases, they are either sticky sweet amazing or they are little terrors. Today was in a word...awesome (that is my favorite word, it describes negative and happy emotions for me) I was out doing last minute shopping standing in a 40 min. line at Wal Mart, when I get a call from Jack saying that Harry pulled our tree down on top of himself. nice. I was hoping it scared him enough to not go near the tree, no such luck Jack told me he wasn't even phased. I guess it could have been worse but at the moment my house is a constant battle zone of messes and they are usually created by Harry. I love him to death, and he is still by cuddle bug adorable man, but boy he gets around and destroys fast. Don't even get me started on his meal times, he used to be my best eater now it usually ends up on the floor.

***

Speaking of our tree. Jack and I picked a beautiful tree right after Thanksgiving, it was an awesome experience full of fresh cooked crab legs, awesome. Well its been getting pretty crispy and Saturday when Jack and I had friends over for the game his dad was looking at it and honestly their was no life left in it. I left to go do some shopping with Megan and when we returned I found Jack decorating a new tree! My wonderful father-in-law went to the nearest tree lot and grabbed us a new one. Love it! So, then we decided we hated our decorations (except for our keep sake ornaments which we will keep adding to our tree, I love an eclectic look) so we went and bought new ones and we are amazed at the difference. So Thank You Bob!

***

I have some awesome stories I have been meaning to write down, they usually involve Everett for he is quite a character. When he was playing with his cousins a few weeks ago I heard him whining, all of the cousins were upstairs so I went downstairs to see what was wrong.
"Everett, whats up?"
Everett standing in one spot says "I'm frozen and they left me"

I love his obedience! They were playing 'freeze tag' and I guess Everett took it a little too literally.

***

My other awesome moment was yesterday morning, Jack had a early morning choir practice so it was up to me to get all the kids ready for church. I grabbed Jane out of her crib (always smiling) and then told Everett that is was time to get up so we can go to church. He replied with

"Five more minutes" as he showed me his five fingers and then pulled the covers back over his head. Love him. He is very whiny and crazy at the moment and not playing well with Harrison, but for the most part these kids make me laugh everyday. Jane is love. We all love Jane.

I know, no pictures. But I really hate my camera and if I want a good picture I have to take 5 to get a decent one and then by then the moment is gone. I am excited though, because I just ordered our first ever Camcorder and am so excited to catch these crazy's on tape.

Jack just came in with a bloody foot and achy body from playing basketball. Time to tend to my man. goodnight.

Not working out so well is it?

2010-12-04T21:40:00.000-08:00

I am blogging from my car. We are driving home from Logan where I just finished three days of Concerts with the 'American Festival Chorus' I sing in a choir with my mom and my sister and i have loved it. Tonight was my last concert, the drive from Sandy is going to be too difficult to continue. So, tonight was my last concert. I am thinking of pusuing some other dreams of mine.
***
I am blogging from the car because Jack was just making fun of the fact that I failed at my attempt to be a steady writer on my blog. He is right. I have been anything but steady. So, here you go honey, this one is for you.
***
The kids are growing up fast. Jane is amazing. She is now copying our mouth movements and sounds such as clicking her little tongue and her always adorable cooing.
The boys are keeping busy. Harry will not let go of his special blanket which he calls 'Bobby'' and it is a desperate cry when he can't find 'BOBBY! BOBBY!' I decided to cut bobby into three pieces so I can have a clean one on hand because there was never a convenient time to wash it. He is cute as ever. Everett is in a fun stage. He has some sass which drives me crazy but for the most part he is the best older brother to Harry and Jane. I totally get it when he wants to act like a baby, poor guy wasn't the baby for very long. He is adventerous and absolutely in love with Thomas the Train.
***
We were at Grandma and Grandpa Roberts house last week for Thanksgiving which was wonderful. Ali, Josh, and Nick were here so we were partying all week. Everett loves his cousins. The day after Thanksgiving we had a nice surprise while we were at Grandma and Grandpa's, we were eating pizza when we hear some jingles. It was SANTA!! The kids were so excited. As soon as Everett saw him he said "Hi Santa!" and then he turned to me and said "Wait a minute, I need to see something" he then looks out the window and says "Santa, where is your sliegh and riendeer?" awesome. Of course Santa only rides his sleigh and reindeer on Christmas Eve! He loved it. He gave Santa his wish list which consisted of one thing "Percy" he loves Thomas and he can't wait to get Percy.
***
I will write more later, almost home. I have some 'Awesome Moments, and Not so Awesome Moments" coming soon.

I was blue

2010-11-21T18:09:00.000-08:00

To be honest again. I've wanted to write but I have felt blue. I don't anymore. But for a good 3 weeks there I was not myself, I was my worse self: irritated, impatient, and just plain old grumpy. I think move #8 was my max; so overwhelming. So, I am finally feeling better about life and moving forward with my three rambunctious kids and Jack my dear mate. Here are some late pictures from Halloween. Loved Halloween this year, the best year yet and they will only get better the older these kids get. Everett was a HOOT. We trudge through the cold and rain until he wanted no more. When we got home I told him he could have piece of candy and so he took one opened it and then threw it away without eating it. Crazy kid. Love him.

I am so excited for the holidays. I have a big old box of Christmas decorations waiting to be opened and draped all over our new home. Last year at this time we were barely hanging on to our mortgage in Kaysville not knowing what was going to happen next. I would eagerly look out the window into the dark snowy night and just pray Jack would get home safely driving home from Lehi (a good 45 min. drive with good road conditions). We were not making ends meet. We had one car. I did my best, with my 2 little boys and pregnant, to be optimistic and create new adventures in our home to distract us from our current state. I can honestly testify of the Lord's hand directly in our lives through that time. We were given so much annonamously just when we needed it the most. Now, it is our turn to give and I am so excited to be on the other end and so grateful to have recieved. Looking forward into 2011 and I can honestly say with confidence that we will be fine. I know life throws curves and we are prepared. Jack is my closest friend and together we have braved mighty winds. Can't wait for Thanksgiving and for my Christmas concert in Logan after that and boy, the weeks are filling up fast.

The Job

2010-11-15T18:16:00.001-08:00

Wow. We are trying to get settled into our new home in Sandy. Life has been pretty crazy for the past few months and this past week has been very busy. I will write more on that later, for right now I am going to answer the many questions I get about Jack's job.

Let's back up. We have been looking for a job for 2 1/2 yrs. We have had jobs during that time but they were minimum wage paying jobs (commission based) which everyone working off commission know how hard this is in this economy. We had to short sell our house and Jack took a job working at Convergys in Logan. We lived with my parents until we could get back on our feet. I was interviewing for a full-time position as a dental assistant prepared to have my parents raise my children for as long as it took for us to move forward into a career. We were seriously planning on at least 8 months and then hopefully we could afford to get into a little apartment and then see from there. Well. Jack gets a phone call one day from his best friends uncle (who Jack knows) and he said that he had a job open up and was wondering if Jack wanted to apply for it. Jack told me about it and I laughed and then said "Why not? We have nothing to lose? I am not getting my hopes up, so go ahead." I don't know if you understand. Jack has had job rejection after rejection. I am not talking one or two, I am talking everyday for 2 1/2 yrs. Well, he goes through the process of interviewing and then it came down to the day of decision. This job was going to be life changing if we got it. Jack got the call and he was told to check his email because there was a job offer in there. I am still in shock, I can't believe how quickly things can turn around. The funny thing is that this job has nothing to do with his degree which is another reason that it was a miracle and huge answer to a prayer and a big testament to me that Heavenly Father knows exactly what he is doing.

Jack's Job: Jack works for a company called LALA USA . They are a company that owns Dairy Plants all over the Unites States. There major client is Wal-Mart and Sam's Club. He is an Account Manager for the plants in the Eastern United States. He is the liaison between the plant and Wal-Mart. He travels a lot and stays pretty busy. He has never done anything related to this field but he is loving it and we are so grateful to be on a career path. I am so proud of this man of mine. Not for getting this great job, but through all of this craziness we have been through he has never given up and keeps on going even if he has to work at Convergys on the way. I am proud of what he has accomplished and for the opportunities that he takes to grow and learn. He is wonderful in every sense of the word.

Thank you Jack.

You are Special

2010-11-08T19:57:00.000-08:00

Today was great. I had many 'moments' that I wanted to freeze and stow away for a grumpy day. It started with Jack and I getting my dads Explorer loaded up with little bits of odds and ends to take to our house in Sandy so they don't pester us on 'moving day.' Jack's flight wasn't until three so we took advantage that to get things done. As we were loading things in the car Jack turns to me and says "This is nice that we get to spend this time together" I totally agree. I love that man of mine, he really is something else. We are the perfect pair.

***

I started remaking a skirt today with my mother. She made me the most beautiful skirt about ten years ago, I am not kidding it is my most favorite thing I own, its made out of dupioni silk. Due to its age it has literally started to disintegrate and now we are making a new one. I am so glad.

***

Everett and I sat in the living room while the snow fell and the babies slept and read books. We read three of the 'Monster Books' I love those. Then we pulled out a book and as I started to read it I was caught off guard at how wonderful this book was "You Are Special" I could barely get through each word (I've read it before but its been awhile). This was a special moment indeed. A moment of teaching to my small child of how the world will tell you things that will hurt you and make you sad, but you must remember who you are. By the end of the book on the very last page before I got done reading the very last word Everett said "Its okay mom, he lost a dot. He's super happy." I love these little children of mine who help me to slow down and enjoy a special story and to learn a very important lesson.

***

We ended the night by eating some wonderful mushroom risotto made by my amazingly talented mother. There isn't much she isn't good at especially when it comes to food. It was warm and comforting and the perfect way to end our chilly day. Jack is in Kentucky and will be home Wednesday morning. I can't wait.

Typing from the OtHeR Grandma's house

2010-11-04T19:50:00.000-07:00

I told Everett today that we were going to Grandma Roberts house. I wish I could give him a good incentive like that everyday. Honestly, he behaved anytime I threatened that we wouldn't go. He picked up all his toys, and did everything he was asked. Awesome.

***

Jane slept good last night she only got up 3 times and spent 3 hours in my bed instead of the whole night. I love her so much. Everytime she smiles she seems like she is going to burst. Today I watched Harry smother her in Raspberry kisses on her cheeks while Jane grinned and grinned, her cheeks were covered in slobber, but Harry's slobber is the best so no worries.

***

Harry was nasty again this morning. So, I slipped him into a bath. As I was changing Jane I could hear the 'Oh so familiar sound of water spilling onto the floor, as if it was a distant memory. Or as if it was yesterday and I had to dicipline. Uh, I have no authority. So I told my mom and she gave some wise advice. "Don't let him have a cup in the tub". Oh, duh, really? Why didn't I think of that? honestly Sarah.

***

My teeth ache from my new invisaline retainer. Thank goodness had a minor correction and this is my last retainer and then the permanent fix.

***

I am in West Jordan today. Jack's flight gets in at midnight, I can't wait to pick him up. These days seem long without him. I'm sure it won't feel so bad once we get into our own home.

***

It really is crazy trying to pack for 2 nights for 5 people. It consists of:

-4 pairs of adult socks

-2 outfits for me

-2 outfits for Jack

-six little kid outfits

-six pairs of socks (backups included)

-Diapers for Jane and Harry

-underwear for Everett

-Toothbrushes

-Jackets for all 5 of us

-6 pairs of Jammies

-blankets (special nighttime blankies)

-1 pack n play

-Bottles/sippy cups

And I am sure to have forgotten something. I wish there was one thing I could leave off that list, but we do need it all. We are picking up our house keys on Sat. and then we are cleaning and heading home. Until tomorrow.

Strength

2010-11-02T19:43:00.000-07:00

Today I got me some strength. From where you may ask? Well I don't know, if I knew than I would have it every day. I think I just needed a lousy day and today was great in comparison. It really is true we must experience sadness to know happiness.

***

Kids were great today. Or maybe I was awesome? again, who knows. Harrison did bite Everett's face leaving bruised teeth marks on his cheek. not cool. Jane was fussy most the day and I rocked her to sleep for the first time ever. Guess she is just needing mommy today.

***

I talked to my sister on the phone from Boston. I miss her and always look forward to our 'lift each others spirits' talks. She is the best and so amazing in too many ways to count. A total independent.

***

Did I vote? No. oops. Not really. Live my life for a day and tell me if you would have the time to vote.

***

Missing Jack like crazy. I am twitter-pated by him today, I always am. How could I not be? Have you seen my hubby? Do you know him despite the good looks? Amazing.

***

I went to the Orthodontist today to get fitted for my new invisiline retainer, I brought Jane with me. The receptionists at the desk said "Wow! We didn't know you had a baby".......?? You should of seen their faces when I told them I had two others. Crazy I tell you.

No plans for tomorrow. I rocked it today. ya.

Awesome moment of the day: Harry flying through the air and tackling Everett.

Not so awesome: The Bite mark on Everett's face. Don't get me wrong, Everett beats back. These kids both have bleeding NicKs out of their faces from their wrestling matches.

dreary day

2010-11-01T20:35:00.000-07:00

***

Today I am sad. I can't explain it. I've tried. Believe me I've tried to explain it to Jack, who is across the country far away from me in Florida (He is there until Thursday, who am I kidding? Basically Friday, his flight doesn't get in until midnight on Thursday.) I love him. Doesn't matter how far away he is he always manages to make me feel amazing. He really is the best at boosting my spirits. I hate these moods. It seems so hard to pull myself out of it. I know I am just anxious. I feel like I have so much to do but I can't do it yet. I have to pack, cancel our storage unit, hook ups, budget, and a million other phone calls need to be made, all the while trying to take care of my three beautiful children. All I really wanted to do today was some Yoga, do you know what I did instead? I ate some of Everett's halloween candy. uh. I hate these days, I feel like I have let myself down. The one thing that was going to make me feel a little better was too much effort and I didn't have the time. Goodness.

***

(Jane is devine)

***

I dropped by my old house today in Kaysville and marveled at how wonderful the new windows they put in looked. I got to chat with an amazing friend and long lost neighbor as well. We kept daring each other to go over to the house (which is unoccupied, but being fixed up) and see if the garage code works and snoop around a little. I love Shan. She is amazing. I wish I was half as talented and motivated. This girl is doing triathalons all over the place and always has goals set. My goals are more focused on getting the laundry done and kids fed. It was great to see her again, she is a wonderful inspiration to me.

***

Halloween. Honestly, we did take pics and they are adorable only problem is I don't know where the cord is to download them to my computer. so maybe next time. Everett and Harry were Cowboys, Jane was a PiG, and Jack and I were Indians. We Love trick or treating come rain or shine we will always go.

(Everett worlds best big brother)

Anyway. Tomorrow is new. I am going to take all the kids out to the park and then I will get them some ice cream because they deserve it.

Great Moment of the Day: Everett getting teary eyed while I was folding laundry:

Me: "What's the matter sweetie? Why are you crying?"

Everett: "Its because I love you so much"

Not so great moment: Harry getting excited and biting my shoulder making it bleed.

Also pouring cups full of water out of the bath....grrr.

anxious

2010-10-28T10:01:00.000-07:00

I am super anxious to get into our house. I want so badly to put my cute furniture around. I want to decorate again, and with christmas coming even better. Everett and Harrison were so adorable this morning. Everett was crawling on all fours being the horse and Harry was the cowboy. Love those too, especially when they actually are enjoying each other. It's little moments like those that make having these kids so close together worth it.

*****

I am going to miss being so close with my mom. I have had so much fun with her. My boys are going to miss her chasing them in the house and while running saying "No running in the house."

I am so lucky to have good people in my life.

*****

Heading to Gardener tomorrow for some WiTcH fun. We love that place. I am going to throw the kids in their costumes for the event. Also, my little sis is throwing a Halloween party on saturday night and we have no clue what to do for costumes. Any ideas? I really don't want them to be much work. Please leave a comment! Any suggestions?

a few days late.

2010-10-27T08:58:00.000-07:00

Alright. I let myself slip. I honestly can't give myself any slack or I will crumble all together. I told myself saturday night after a long day that I wouldn't write but pick it back up on Monday. Now its wednesday. Ridiculous I tell you. So here I am, typing away trying to recap the past few days.

*****

Saturday we spent the day in Salt Lake looking for a place to live after many places we have finally made a choice and we move Nov. 12. We actually get the keys on the 6th but I want to scour every corner before we move in. Its not a dirty place its actually awesome, its a house in East Sandy. We are really excited. I am relieved that I can finally be the homemaker again. I really need to get my kids back on a good schedule and start sleep training Jane. I am so grateful my parents let us stay here. We are going to miss them.

*****

Jack is in Florida/Alabama until late tomorrow night. He is such a hard worker, I can't believe the turn our lives have taken. Its tough being here all on my own with the kids for 4 days straight. But its nice because that means Jack only has a 4 day work week and we get him for the rest of the time.

*****

I started Jane on rice cereal. She is going to be 5 months old! Goodness. I'm loving every minute of her I don't even mind her up so much in the night, it only becomes hard when I realize I haven't had much sleep and its pitch black outside and freezing and my boys are ready to start the day. But, I love my nights with Jane.

*****

Just ordered the boys christmas gifts online yesterday. Thank you Amazon. I also want one of those humungo Teddy Bears in Sam's club. I already got Jane a tea set so I think thats all I'll get her. I don't usually get my kids anything at her age because they haven't a clue. My little italian Harry is calling my name "Ma, Ma!" time to go.

5 yrs. Hard. But worth it.

2010-10-22T22:13:00.000-07:00

It was five years ago yesterday that Jack and I were married. gosh. Yesterday Jack was in Nashville and so we had to put off our celebration to today. I left the boys with grandma and grandpa Passey and headed to the airport to pick up my sweetheart. After a 2 hr. long conference call (always busy) we were able to head up to Park City for some shopping. I got my first pair of good jeans, I really can't believe what I have been missing wearing crummy ones. I asked Jack "how many years does it feel we should be celebrating?" Jack's response "8" I totally agree. In five years we have: Moved 7 times, bought a house, short sold a house, had three kids(in 2yrs. and 9 months), lived in England, worked like mad. I know I keeping stuff out but you get the idea. Its amazing what you can accomplish in just 5 yrs. We are solid (we should be), and I am so proud of that.

We are staying away from the kids tonight (except Jane). This is my first time staying in a nice Hotel. I am loving that my bed was turned down and the chocolates on my pillow. THiS is much NEeDed.
I used my portion of our hotel credit to buy Jane her first tea set, I am so excited to play with it with her some day. I bought the boys a wooden puzzle. I love being a mother to these rascals, as crazy as they make me.

As I sit here typing Jack and Janes methodic deep sleep breathing is music to my ears. (poke fun at me "Seriously so Blessed" blog) I love my family. I am grateful for the first time in a long time for my trials, I would not be able to feel this much joy without them.

tomorrow its off to hunt for a place to live. Wish us luck.

grump.

2010-10-20T21:30:00.001-07:00

You ever have a morning where you don't want to be where you are? Well this morning I was doing all I could to stay in my warm bed and sleep a little longer. Not possible! Some mornings my kids wake up and start playing and are happy. Then there are the mornings they wake up crying and we all know what kind of a day is ahead. That was this morning. Everett was crying Harry was crying, sweet baby Jane was my only Angle (she usually is) I desperately wanted to be her lying on my big comfy bed fast asleep without obligations or a worry in the world. In perfect....peaceful...dreamless...sleep. no. I must get out into the cold and pull my fighting children off each other. Then the baths start. Everett and Jane. Jane out first lotioned and clothed. Then Everett, skip the lotion its some weird torture to him, but clothed. Then Harry's turn, no lotion to wiggly, but clothed. Breakfast. yikes. Now its 11:30 I have had to put both boys in 'Time out' three times. I lay Harry down for a Nap. Movie on for Everett. Now my turn. I hop in the bath (Which I filled to high, due to chasing kids) and its not warm. I do my best to relax when Everett comes in and starts to take off is clothes "Mom I need to get in with you because my hair is really dirty"

Me: "Not this time sweetie, I need to rest I am tired"

Everett with weird look "Mom, its not a bed."

I bought Jane a PIGGY costume today. It really was due to the fact that they were at Sams for $10 and its warm, because you better believe we are tricker treating! None of this 'Trunker Treat' nonsense.

Today, I wanted to hand in my Mommy card. Everett told me 'No' about 2 Kazillion times, and fought me on everything, wigged out on the tiniest things, and drove me to craziness. This is the hardest thing I have ever done or ever will do. I am not going to lie I have lost my patience so many times lately. uh. yucky feeling. Its crazy how kids flip flop. Yesterday Everett was the perfect child. Is there no middle ground? Guess not. It really makes you appreciate the good days. Lets hope for some obedience tomorrow.

Jack's in Nashville. He ate a delicious dinner of fried chicken mashed potatoes. I miss my man.

Night.

This girl is nothing but Love. She sucks on those two fingers to go to sleep. I LOVE IT.

Let's be honest....

2010-10-19T20:06:00.000-07:00

Lets be honest we all have done things we are not proud of. My most recent was seeing a sippy cup in the corner of the toy closet and not picking it up. I'm not talking a couple of days, it was there for three full weeks. When I finally willed myself to grab it I threw it away for fear of what was waiting inside. What's your latest?

Today my mother and I drove to Holladay to look at a condo to rent. Lets just say I will be looking through some more on Friday. I was hopeful that this would be the one, but no. We topped the day off eating at Biaggi's and then over to JBrooks to get my ring cleaned. JBrooks is where I bought my ring, they told me I could drop it off anytime. So, I do. One time one of the Jewelers gave me a self cleaning kit I kindly handed it back and said "But I love the way you do it!" I'm a regular and they know me well.

Jack is spending the night in a hotel in Arkansas. :( sad. I miss him. But we are looking forward to our 5 yr. anniversary on Friday it really is on Thursday, but friday is the day he gets home. Love him.

Proud moment of the day: Everett vacuuming the car out for me and then us sitting on the couch for an hour while he recited movie lines. Best kid EVER, crazy memory!

Not so Proud moment: Harrison waking up soaked in pee and shivering. My little sis got the kids ready for bed last night and put a little Jane diaper on him, poor guy didn't have a chance.

9:12 pm to be exact

2010-10-18T20:12:00.000-07:00

Alright. Today was crazy to say the least. It is now 9:12 pm and I am finally sitting by myself. Laundry needs to be folded and bags need to be unpacked, "Oh well." The day started with all of us piling into the good old 1994 camry to take Jack to the Airport for his week long business trip (our new life schedule) we stayed at the fabulous in-laws house for the weekend to save us from getting up super early. So, Jack is now in Arkansas and then Wednesday he will be in Kentucky. Jack says that Arkansas is pretty, which was a surprise to me. What is in Arkansas you say? the headquarters to Wal-Mart who is their biggest client in the dairy biz. By the way, he says the headquarters to Wal-Mart are super lame, I thought it would be sweet, not so. Anyway, scored on adorable shoes at Ross until I went to buy them and discovered that my debit card was gone. Yep. Sure did leave in the drive through ATM at Zions three hours earlier. Grrr. No worries. My mother reassured me that people are mostly good. She was lucky on that statement, because I went home and checked my account and there has been no transactions, but to be safe I put a block on the card. I am a mother of three without a brain.

Proud moment of the day: Everett saw me picking up clothes upstairs and so he hopped off his chair and says

"Mom sit. I will clean" and starts to pick up all the dominoe pieces and put them away, he even put them on a high shelf so Harry wouldn't get them.

Then I said "Everett! Thank you so so much! You are amazing!"

Everett says "Your welcome! I love you so much"

Me (a little teary) "I love you too! Thank YOU!"

Everett responds "I told you 'your welcome', crazy mommy"

I am trying my best at being a mom but it is stinkin hard. That moment was 1 minute long and it was worth 1 million minutes of frustration. I am now typing to Jane's adorable snoring. I think she will sleep with me tonight.

Curious?

2010-10-16T15:07:00.000-07:00

Curious as to my NeW BlOg Title? My new goal. I am going to write a post everyday, that way I wont let the sweet moments (and not so sweet moments) pass me by. Now, I have to write everyday. Extreme you may ask? Well its all or nothing in my world and I want to remeber everyday I have. Read or don't read I am doing this only for remembrance as I know you are too.

Living and Loving

2010-10-12T17:52:00.000-07:00

Uh, I have been rubbish! I would love to say that I haven't posted because I don't have the time, (I'm know I could find the time I just haven't been in the mood.) So, I am breaking my habit of procrastination and I hope I can post more about this cute little family of mine, and this crazy life we live.

Truthfully, the past few years have been tough to say the least. Our family has braved some mighty winds. I am proud to say that for the first time in three years we see some light on the horizon. Jack just got a good job and it has strengthened our testimony of prayer. I am mostly grateful for the prayers that were unanswered. Heavenly Father knows what he is doing and I never in my life ever questioned that until we were moving out of our home and in with my parents. I kept thinking -really? Is this happening again? I am so grateful for family assistance but how much is it going to take for us to get on our feet? Why on earth did we have to lose our house in Kaysville? Why were we living on minimum wage for a year with three children??? Yikes. I am amazed at the blessings we have received through all the trials. I know, its so hard to count your blessings at the time and believe me I murmured at times. Its hard when you look at those close to you and they are doing fine and you want so badly to be in their shoes if only for a moment to get some relief of your current state. The Prophets talk really stood out to me with being grateful and counting blessings everyday and writing them down. It may not make it easier at the time but it sure is amazing to see looking back. There is my little speech, sometimes it stinks being a grown up but through it all we have grown and are better prepared for what the future brings.

We had some photos taken by Megan Heaps. Here is a taste of our fun day, more to come.

I love these little kids, and I love my man. I will be posting these photos often because I love them so much.

gLiMpSe

2010-09-12T18:53:00.000-07:00

Our lives have been tipped upside down and put right back again in the past few weeks. Heres what we have been up to:

We moved from our house in Kaysville and are now living in Logan with my parents. Uh. What number move would this be in 5 yrs. you may ask? Well it is the lucky number 7! awesome. Lets just say we are really good at it. Here are the children on their first night at the grandparents house.

****

*we were all pooped*

Then we started the countdown to Everett's 3rd birthday. For about three months he has said that he wants to go to Chuck-e-cheeses for his birthday and boy did we make good on our promise. There were 2 stipulations if we went though- No more Diapers and No more Bottles. Let me just tell you how amazing this kid is. He went from wearing a diaper for three years and having a bottle at night to big boy underpants and no bottle. Its crazy! I love it! I put a diaper on him at night (I don't trust him completely) and in the morning he goes in the bathroom takes it off and goes potty. He hasn't needed hardly any reminders it just clicked!

****

Potty story: Everett's first poop in the potty went like this.

Everett runs down stairs "Mom! Mom! I just went poop in the potty! It was a triangle and it went down into the tunnel!!! It was Dis--Gusting!" -gotta love it!

****

Chuck-e-cheese did not disappoint, we were all lovin it. Especially since my Mother-in-law got $20 dollars worth of tokens by accident, so we really lived it up on the games.

Thank you to My family and Jack's parents who were able to come celebrate with us and a special thanks to Mason and Luke for coming (cousins) we had a great day!

*Luke and Everett- best friends*

*Couldn't ask for more*

******

Our days have been filled with outdoor adventures in my parents backyard

eating all the black-berries, strawberries, and raspberries

we can get in our mouths.

We have also been to the park trying to soak in what

time we have left of the summer.

Really we just wake up everyday without a

plan and we do whatever we want

*****

*Movies with Grandma*

*Jane is growing so fast we are so in love with her*

*These two are becoming really good buddies, really can't ask for better children*

****

Jack is working hard and loving us in his free time.

I am staying busy as usual and enjoying life.

Life sure is an adventurous roller coaster ride and we have year round passes.

Blessed

2010-08-18T14:37:00.000-07:00

One day we received a very special gift. This gift was our beautiful baby girl Sarah Jane. This little girl was given a beautiful dress made by her 'fairy grandmother' (my mother) to be blessed. We had a wonderful day celebrating with family and friends. Thank you to everyone for your amazing support, and a special thanks to Betsy who took all of our photos. Sarah Jane Roberts Blessed August 1, 2010 here is a peak into our special day.

(Everything in that box (including the shoes) were made by my mother. I made the bonnet, she had to have a bonnet.)

A girl and her shoes

Great Grandma Passey loves her little Jane

(Harri: This kid is hilarious, and feisty)

We love our little girl. Jane, you have been such a joy in our lives. Your brothers adore you and they can't wait to wrestle you a little. Thanks for choosing us.

A new meaning of 'Comfort the Baby'

2010-07-28T13:17:00.000-07:00

Lucky me. I love capturing these moments. (I fully understand the risk of breaking the crib), I really love this man who crawled into the crib to comfort his son.

Incredible Memory....or curse?

2010-07-21T16:52:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that Everett loves movies. He will play hard and then crash and watch a movie, its nice because I can have some quiet time with Harry and Jane, since Everett takes a lot of my attention. Well, I can remember movie lines and they become apart of my normal day to day speech. Jack is always trying to get me to recite my movie lines/impersonations to others. Anyway, I thought I would try it on Everett to see how well he remembers.

Everett was at my parents house for a few days and while there he watched Toy Story for the first time. When he came home he was so excited about it and kept telling me about Buzz and Woody and the funny Pig. So I ask him "Remember that part when Woody says, "You are a childs PLAY THING!!"?" and without missing a beat Everett says "You are a sad, sad, strange little man" Hilairious!! cannot even stand it! So, I thought I would test him a few weeks later on a different movie this time is was 'A Bugs Life' (This scene is between Flick and Dot when Flick is telling her that it is okay to be small.) So I say to Everett "You see this rock? Well, pretend its a seed. I know its nothing now but one day it will grow into a nice big tree" and again without hesitation Everett says "But it's a rock" and then continues with " I know its a rock!!! I see them all the time!!!" He is our little actor. Can I just say that when I was little I entertained my family with my movie lines. My mom always said that if it weren't for movies my family would have nothing to say to each other. Hehe. So Everett, it looks like I have gifted you this.....awesome.

Just Looking

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

Jane is so LuCkY to have Harry for an older brother. Jack and I just realized these kids will all be one grade apart from each other, you better believe these boys will keep an eye out for their sister.

Parade oh what a day!

2010-07-08T16:34:00.000-07:00

I love creating these memorable moments for my kids! Ah, the Parade...

This

Plus This

And This

And Definitely This

(look closely and see how each candy is carefully placed)

Equaled This

We all had a wonderful time, but what made it perfect was to be with this truly delightful boy! I love my family!

A new Pet?

2010-07-07T14:44:00.000-07:00

A new pet you may ask? Oh, no it's just Jack's hair! That's right everyone we cut off Jack's gorgeous locks to sport a new due. Jack has been wanting a change from the long hair but was nervous to go short. So, saturday he asked if I would cut it, he said to just do whatever I wanted (I always cut his hair, but I was so nervous that I would mess it up, when his hair was long I could hide my mistakes.) So, I went online and watched some videos on how to cut men's hair (I know I'm a nerd) But here is the end result.

So good lookin I can't even stand it!

Time to Party!

2010-07-07T09:32:00.000-07:00

How great to celebrate such a wonderful holiday. Jack and I look forward to every holiday (we love celebrating anything we can) but they get better and better each year because we have these little kids to celebrate with.

We had a wonderful past couple of weeks. Ah, to be a kid again. Here is Everett and his best friend and cousin Luke ( Everett calls him EUKE). You haven't celebrated if you don't go to a 'dirty carnival'

Honestly could he look any handsomer on that thing?

Aunt Ali was in town, Everett adores his 'Aunt Ali'. Here they are going on a walk after Everett asked her to go on one, thanks AL we miss you already!

The 4th!

We celebrated the fourth with just us, the first time ever we have done that and it was awesome! We started with the parade and ended it in our drive way with fireworks. We also had the best view of the Kaysville fireworks which were going off two blocks from our house. It was definitly a memorable day.

Fireworks!

Happy fourth!

Blessed

2010-06-23T08:46:00.000-07:00

Golly, I have been thinking back over the last year and it was rough, we got through but not alone or unaided. Through the hardships comes this list of what people have done for us. I am not going to use names but you know who you are.

The LIST

- Taken my kids countless times. Not only that but having children of their own around the same age. madness.

- Brought me food.

- Always calling me when they are at the store to see if I need something

- Taken me to a doctors app. and then to lunch

- Things anonymously left at our door. (still really curious about this one)

- Helped us move

- Job recommendations

- Advice

- A shoulder

- Being there

- Inspired to drop by

- Taken my boys to the zoo

- Taken my boys to a fun museum

- A listening ear

I honestly am probably leaving off a lot but the list goes on and on. I am so grateful for my friends and their amazing support. Support from family comes naturally and so when I have been blessed with family support and friends, lets just say I am truely blessed. Thank you to everyone who has given to us in one way or another, your good deeds have not gone unnoticed. You have been an example to me and my family of what service truely is.

Here is my adorable Sarah Jane at 1 week old she is now almost 3wks. yikes!

Special Men

2010-06-21T07:46:00.000-07:00

To my Dad

I want to write about a very special someone in my life. My dad. Words can't fully express the love I have for him. I am so grateful for all of the many examples he has taught me throughout my life. He has taught me about perserverance when things get hard, I spent much of my time with my dad hiking, camping, or well anything outdoors. He always told me how he doesn't raise 'wussy girls'. He taught me how to rise above the crowd and help those in need. The list goes on and on. So many look up to my dad because of his kindness and understanding. He is the most amazing man and I am so lucky to call him dad and my children are so lucky to call him Grandpa. Thank you dad for being such a wonderful example to me! I love YOU! By the way right now he is sporting a Shawn Connery goatee. I love it!

To my Husband

I have another special man in my life JACK! I am so lucky to be surrounded by such amazing men. Jack, is so amazing. I know I brag about him all the time but he deserves everything life has to offer. I am so grateful for his wonderful example to me and to the children. Its been a super crazy road for us these past few years, and through it all Jack has remained solid and immovable. His career path has not taken the turns we hoped yet, but he keeps pushing through the crazy tornado winds to find it. I am so lucky to have someone who cares so deeply for me and my every need. I am so impressed with Jacks ability to calm situations and to make other people feel comfortable. He is the perfect man for me and the perfect father to our children. Thank You Jack! Life with you is an adventure.

Remembering When....

2010-06-16T09:05:00.000-07:00

I am amazed at how much has transpired in 4 1/2 yrs. Jack and I always laugh at how funny we are and at all the crazy looks we get for having these kids. Well, there is a lot of crazy in us, but without that craziness we wouldn't have these three beautiful children. It was only 2yrs. and 9 months ago that I had Everett. I was so nervous; not only was I facing being a new mom but we were moving out of our house and venturing to England. Wow, England seems like a blink. Life is amazing especially when looking back and seeing what you have accomplished.

(Everett and Me at 8 months)

We found out when Everett was 10 months old that we were expecting again. This was planned, I wanted so much for Everett to have a sibling close in age. We were thrilled beyond belief to find out it was a boy. Visions of two boys playing pirates, cowboys, and ninjas occupied my thoughts. We still owned our home in Kaysville as a rental but were living in West Jordan at Jack's parents. Around the time I was 8 months pregnant we moved down the road right next to a mink farm....good times. We had some question marks in our future as far as jobs went, but we were happy and so excited to meet our new little guy.

(Harry and Me at 8 1/2 months)

Then there was Jane. Harry was 4 months old when we found out we were pregnant again. I was so scared. Having a c-section with Harry we weren't sure how my body was going to respond. It was a long and tough road, including medical scares with Jane causing us to see a specialist regularly. Thank goodness for an amazing doctor who reassured me all along the way plus the support of a wonderful husband, family and two amazing little boys . We moved back to our home in Kaysville; Jack's job wasn't working out as planned. Jane has been an answer to so many prayers her sweet spirit has beautifully graced this home and we are all so grateful. The delivery with Jane could not have been more perfect, I still can't believe it. Through the tough and scary times there was always joy and light. Now, life with the 3 kids is so much harder than I thought it would be. I am wiped by the end of the day. Its amazing to think that my mom had 6! I am grateful for the amazing examples around me. I am so, so blessed.

(Jane and me 3 days before delivery)

Five

2010-06-08T21:56:00.001-07:00

Wow, its been 1 week since we added a third child to the nest. whew. There are so many emotions. You have so many emotions after having a child anyway and then you have the emotions of all of your children as well. Harry has taken the change really well, Everett loves Jane but has been a bit harder on me. I can't seem to do anything right, uh, so not fun. He is either smothering me with kisses and hugs or he is ignoring me completely. I love these boys so much I am so grateful for mothers who have been such an example to me. This is not easy. Jane has been so much fun I love having a girl, so, so different from my boys. Since Everett is still pretty hilarious here is another 'Everett Favorite'

'Primary Songs'

Every chance I get I try to get Everett to sing to me. I am so amazed at his memory with the songs he learns in nursery. The other day I asked him to sing 'Follow the Prophet' and he did, my favorite part is when he shakes his finger and says "Don't go astray, don't go astray." That one has become my favorite. Well we were driving in the car the other day and I asked if he would sing it. This is how it went:

"Follow the 'Chicken', follow the 'Chicken'" (I know so irreverent) I didn't know what to do I couldn't help but burst into laughter. So then he kicked it up a notch: His favorite movie is Cinderella and his favorite character is 'Gus Gus' the fat mouse. So now anytime you ask him to sing he says "Follow the 'Gus Gus' follow the 'Gus Gus', don't go astray 'Gus Gus'." He really is our little comedian. What makes him a good comedian? He never laughs at his own jokes, he is pretty awesome.

(My adorable Harrison 14 months)

"Having a Drink"

2010-06-06T14:02:00.000-07:00

Oh dearest Everett, he is really all boy. Turn back if your gag reflexes are weak. Here is another "Everett Favorite" (that is what we now call our funny stories about him, for there are many):

We were driving in the car the other day and decided to stop and get a couple of burgers at the drive-through. We ate our food on our way home. Everett had his cup of water in his cup holder (I think that when you are a mom you are blessed with sonic hearing and without seeing what's happening you just know. Well this was one of those moments.) I started to hear this slurping sound from behind me, and listening for just a moment I knew exactly what it was, hoping I was wrong I asked "Everett what are you doing?" Everett casually responds "I am having a drink and its yummy, I took my sock off" Yes, that sock that he took from his foot was now being placed in the cup of water and he was sucking it from the sock. double awesome. Jack and I again had a hard time keeping composure trying not to laugh and explained that that was yucky and if he wanted a clean cloth to drink from we could get him one, but lets not use the sock from our foot. Oh, wow. really, super funny kid the laughs are endless with this one.

Sarah Jane

2010-06-05T14:14:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday the 2nd of June our dear little Jane was born.

Sarah Jane Roberts

7lbs. 5oz

20 inches long

(Mom and Jane seconds old)

Here's the story: I had been uncomfortable and having sporadic contractions since the Friday before. By Tuesday morning we had a false alarm and after walking around the hospital for an hour they sent me home. The most disheartening part of all of that was that I was still dilated to a 2+ ( they added that + to make me feel better). So, considering this was VBAC, I had to be patient and let my body do its thing. Later that day around 6 pm I started to have extremely painful contractions. For fear I would be sent home again I waited it out until 2 in the morning at which time I told Jack to grab the kids and get me to the hospital.

Jack dropped me off and they admitted me at about 2:45 am. After many painful contractions they gave me my epidural, and to my surprise I was still dilated to a 2+, but now I was much more comfortable and didn't really mind. So, Jack and a I got a few hours of sleep and by 7:00 am there was very little change except that my cervix was really soft (thank you Melanie it was that amazing oil). At that rate they anticipated me going into labor around 1:00 in the afternoon. It was now 9:00 and the nurse had just checked my status and told me I was almost to a 4. Awesome. Seeing how we would be waiting a while Jack decided to go and grab some breakfast at the cafeteria.

I was relaxed, content, calm watching a show when I felt some pressure. So, I called the nurse in and she made some comment along the lines of "It's probably the catheter." As she checked me she got wide eyed and announced that I was at a 10 and the baby's head was an inch from coming out! She asked where Jack was and no sooner did those words escape her mouth when he walked in the door. "I forgot my wallet," he announced. The nurse replied, "Good, your wife is about to have a baby!" I have never seen Jack so shocked. They called in the doctor who barely had time to throw on some gloves because Jane's head was now a quarter of the way out. I gave one push and there she was! (I know, hate me if you must. But really if you heard my previous two delivery stories you'd know I deserved this one. Also, no stitches.) There she was - perfect. Words can't express our love for this little girl. She is everything lovely and girly. We are so happy she is here.

Everett and Harry really love her. Everett wants to hold her all the time, and Harry wants to eat her. So, between the two of them it works out lovely.
Jane has been so wonderful, eating, sleeping, and all that other good stuff. We are all in love.

"Bye, Tiger"

2010-05-26T12:17:00.000-07:00

I realize I am super close to my due date and still no baby....grrrr... People keep telling me "Your, so close", "almost there", oh and my favorite "she will be here before you know it." None of those words hold any comfort whatsoever. So, I wish this was a post on 'Sarah Jane' and her adorableness, but not yet. Coming soon! For now here is the latest funny story:

This comes from my oh so funny boy Everett:

We were all in the car after shopping like crazy for a new purse/diaper bag for me. I don't splurge on anything these days but I had some money given to me for the baby so this was my little treat. After a million bags and none bought we were heading home. Harrison was showing off his new high-pitch scream and Everett was getting annoyed. I handed Harrison this big plastic Tiger animal ( you know the crazy heavy safari animals) well he threw it and it barely missed Everett's head. Everett in turn grabbed the Tiger and all I hear is

"Bye, Tiger" I quickly turn around to find that the Tiger is no where to be seen.

I quickly ask Everett "Where is Tiger?" He then points to the window. In a hysterics I yell to Jack "Oh, my Gosh. Everett just threw Tiger out the window" Jack quickly turns around on busy main street at rush hour and sure enough there is Tiger on the road. We picked him up using our 'Hazard lights' we couldn't leave the it, it was way to big and could do damage to some ones car. Jack and I proceeded to pamper and kiss the Tiger to show Everett that that is not nice and he is hurt. He apologized to Tiger and gave him some kisses. As we drove home we stifled our laughs, because to a child this is no laughing matter.

frightening

2010-05-19T20:05:00.000-07:00

So, lately Jack and I have been able to pull out distinct traits in our children that sadly they got from us. Here is the list:

Everett: Tantrums... He throws himself on the floor, pounds on the door, screams to no end. Where did he pick up that little diddy?- Me

Harry: Total snuggle bug when he is hurt or whenever he wants a little cuddle: Both

Everett: sparatic hugs and kisses, there doesn't need to be a reason: Me

Harry: Eats and Eats: Jack

Everett: When he is sick he whines and whines. But, when you try to hold him or help him he tells you "no" and gets upset. The first part comes from me and the second is Jack.

Harry: Daredevil: Jack

Everett: Won't do something you suggest but if you leave him for a bit he will do it: Both

Harry: Stubborn when he doesn't get his way: Both

Everett: Very social, he will talk to anyone: Both

Counting Blessings

2010-05-18T07:09:00.000-07:00

Lately it seems I have had a lot to complain about. But, along with that I have been counting my blessings. In the past month I have been to the temple four times twice with Jack one with my family and grandparents to see Megan get out her endowments, the other was to see Megan get sealed. It's been busy and I seriously can't believe I made it through all of that being 8 1/2 months pregnant. It seems when faced with trials or a specific trial all we can see is what's right in front of us. I love my children and my husband so much. 'What doesn't Kill you only makes you stronger' and I don't think you can find a better example of that than in Jack. I am so grateful for heavenly father preparing such an incredible man to lead me and my children through this life. I am truely so, so blessed. These pictures are from last night family home evening.

(Can't deny the little guy his own cone)

(Enjoying his ice cream)

(The end result was.....sticky)

Promise

2010-05-10T10:25:00.000-07:00

I awoke this morning to the sound of rain tapping at my window. I love the rain, it means I don't have to water my flowers, it also means yummy warm, bright, sunny days ahead. You really don't appreciate those days unless you have been without them. Everett woke up saying ''tut. tut. looks like rain'' he also had a giant double chocolate cookie, it took me a few minutes to coax it out of his hand for later. Harry woke up in a very good mood, he walked around laughing hysterically, such a sweet spirit in that boy. I am sore today. Sleep doesn't come easily anymore, last night was one of those nights. I am anxious to meet Jane, I can feel the boys are anxious too. Maybe they are just anxious to have their mom back. I look out the front window and am overwhelmed with raspberry colored blossoms. Our front tree is in bloom and I think the blossoms have stuck around longer than usual just for me. This time of year holds so much promise, oh so much promise. This week is going to be full, I hope I can get through it without having this little one. I know, I never thought those words would come out of my mouth. Janine's funeral is on Tuesday, I miss her so much. There are some people in your life that leave a print on your heart. Janine, left one on mine and I will always be so grateful having her in my life. Megan is getting married on Sat. I am so looking forward to seeing her sealed.

Everett is begging me to play 'hide and seek' I better run. Picture of the week: I told you how we love to sneak one of the boys from their bed to snuggle with, here is Daddy and Harry.

Away from us

2010-05-07T07:06:00.000-07:00

My dearest friend, I am saddened that I won't hear your voice again.

You changed my life when I needed a change.

You believed in me when I didn't believe in myself

You gave me encouragement when I was in doubt.

You taught me to love, and to see the good in everyone

Though we have been apart you were never far from my thoughts.

You have a place so deep in my heart, and it still grows.

I miss you and wish you were here

All I want is to be wrapped in your warm embrace

I know you are well and I know I will see you again

Away from us you may be but in spirit you are closer than you could ever be.

-For you my dearest Janine

A shower for Megs

2010-05-05T18:38:00.000-07:00

My little sister is getting married! I still can't believe it. Megan and I are 3 years apart, I love her so much. We have been through a lot together, and I am so proud of her and all that she has become.

(Megs and me after her Opera performance last summer)

I threw Megs a shower at my home, most my cousins, aunts, and Grandma live right around me in Kaysville. We had a fun Saturday afternoon eating, laughing, and opening gifts. These pics. will have to do for now, there was a lot more yummy food and 24 + people. We had a great time, I am so glad to be a 'Passey'.

Everett was a fun little buddy helping me get ready.

heroes

2010-05-02T07:24:00.000-07:00

Ah, my men. I am so lucky to have them especially when I don't feel good they are so sensitive to it and try and help me. Harry is a snuggle bug and Everett is my protector. Last night I was taking a much needed bath to relax while the boys were sleeping and Jack was out getting dinner. (long day threw a bridal shower for my sis. I'll write on that later) I was exhausted. Of course just as I settle in Harry wakes up crying and then I hear Everett call from his room ' Hey guys!' I told Everett to come out and see me. He did, and then I asked if he could go and give Harrison a hug and calm him down while I finish up in the bath. This is what I heard:

Everett: "It's okay harrison"

Harrison: crying

Everett: "Was it a Moster? It was? Let me check... (walks around room) There's no Moster"

Harrison: crying some more

Everett: "Is it the wind? Its okay wind not scary"

Harrison: Kicking it up a notch.

Everett: "It's okay Harrison Everett's here, I protect you"

Harrison continues to scream then Everett comes to me and says "It not working, sorry."

I love these little guys they are so sweet and I couldn't ask for a better boy in Everett.

I can go on and on, they melt me.

oh, alright.

2010-04-27T08:15:00.000-07:00

You asked for it I have been putting it off. Well, I guess not putting it off I just never think to take a picture of myself. Here I am as of three days ago. I know, gianormous! I just can't wait for my sis's wedding which is exactly 2 weeks from my due date, super awesome. Its okay, its not about me I am only nine months pregnant and those pictures are forever. :):( I really don't have an emotion for that one.

The List Lately:

-I walk around like a crippled old woman

-Jack carries me sometimes when I can't move from my standing position. I love him.

-We laugh about the random things I eat.

-I consume 1 apple every night before I go to bed. I know super random, considering I don't like apples that much.

-I make myself a shake everyday, we finally got a blender after talking about it for 5 yrs. I love it!

-still having my nightly bath time.

-Hate sleeping, hate it, hate it for the obvious reason of being so uncomfortable.

-Avatar is my new favorite movie, Jack and I saw it a few nights ago at our dollar theater. The first time I have sat so long, I didn't want to miss a thing.

-Every night Jack and I take one of the kids from their bedroom so we can snuggle with them, its so much fun because they are so drowsy.

-Yesterday we went on a walk to the dragon park and half way home I had to send Jack for the car because I could no longer walk. ahhh, not long now.

-I am emotional again.

-I love this time of year.

-I know I am complaining a lot but I really am putting the brakes on for at least 4 yrs. before I have another one. I am for sure not done.

I'm not that girl.

2010-04-20T07:44:00.000-07:00

I am yearning for the old me. I wish I could say I was one of those pregnant women who have no problem through their pregnancies. My body takes a real beating, just when you think one symptom has subsided another one manifests itself. I can't wait to wrestle with Everett, he tries to wrestle with me and I have to say 'only tickles and kisses' he wants me to hold him and I have to say 'let's go on the couch and snuggle.' I am so glad I have the summer to look forward to. A new little baby and my body somewhat back to normal. I still can't believe I am having a girl. The other day I pulled out all of Sarah Jane's summer dresses, pressed them, and then hung them in her closet. Wow, girl clothes are so much more fun than boy clothes.

Everett is hilarious. His latest is telling me a conversation that he is going to have with daddy, key word is GOING to have. They go a little something like this:

"mommy? Where's the bubbles?"

me: "Ask daddy" (I say that a lot and now understand why my mom always said it)

Everett: "Oh, ummm. I'll ask daddy 'daddy where are the bubbles? and then daddy will say 'right here Everett' and then I will say ' oh thank you daddy for the bubbles' and then daddy will say ' your welcome babe'.

Then he skips away to have the 'actual' conversation with Jack. It's pretty much awesome.

Harrison is walking. I discovered that he doesn't like grass and he doesn't like to crawl if he has shorts on. Lets just say....I have been putting him in shorts everyday and we spend a lot of time on the grass, and the end result is him walking! yipee. He is a love but sure has some fiestiness in him, it's actually quite hilarious.

Jack, gets most amazing husband award. I came home from the park with the boys and some friends yesterday to find that he washed all of the windows in and out and mopped all of the floors. I was having a very hard and emotional day and I appreciate everything he does, which is an endless list I will spare you the details. I also can't remember the last time I did the dishes.

Six weeks is so far away.

A Special Day

2010-04-01T10:24:00.000-07:00

(Harry on his Birthday)

Today is a special day. You want to know why? Well one year ago today is the day that we were given our beautiful little Harrison. We have loved every minute of him being in this world. Life's sweet moments with Everett got even sweeter, the love in our hearts swelled beyond where we thought they could, and the spirit in our home grew stronger. The brotherly love Everett and Harry have for each other shows how much they loved each other in Heaven. Their closeness in age shows how they couldn't wait to be with each other here on earth. I love my beautiful boys, they are my greatest accomplishment in life.

My dearest Harrison,

One year ago today your father and I awoke at 5:30 am and drove to the hospital for our scheduled C-section. (You were a breached baby and I did all I could to turn you around, but you knew that wasn't possible for the cord was wrapped around your body. You reassured me before you came out that you were alright and to let the doctors do what they needed to do.) We checked in, and got ready for one of the biggest days of our lives. At 7:21 am you were born. As I lay there on the table I heard your beautiful cry, your father saw you first and told me how beautiful you were. The nurses rinsed you off as your father stayed by my side holding my hand and stroking my face telling me everything of your wonderful delivery. Then, they brought you to me. You were perfect, words can't express. They then took you to the recovery room to wait for me while they stitched me up. Everything went so well, there were no complications. You have been our peaceful happy baby ever since. Everett smothered you in kisses from the moment he saw you and still continues to do so. I love you Harrison we are so proud of your amazing gift to make people smile and to love unconditionally. Happy Birthday son.

Best Ever!!!

2010-03-16T07:56:00.000-07:00

I love Sunday's. Especially when I get to go to my in-laws for good company and a yummy meal that I didn't make. So, Last Sunday as we were driving to West Jordan this is how our car ride went.

Everett starting to sing "Best Ever!!"

Jack and I looking surprised.....and then giggling to ourselves.

Everett: "Mom, you sing 'Best Ever!'"

Mom singing: "Best Ever"

Everett then starts to sing "Together, together, together"

Mom then joins in: "Together, together"

Abruptly cut off by Everett: "No, mom you sing 'b-e-s-t...Ever!!!

Mom: "Okay.....B-e-s-t E-v-e-r!"

While Everett sings with different rhythm "Together, Together, Together!"

Our little guy just invented his first Duet. Not sure where it came from, but Jack and I could not have been more impressed. We sang that all the way to Grandma's. Cutest kid E-v-e-r!

Always Amazed

2010-03-09T08:17:00.000-08:00

I'm so lucky. Everett is my little pal, we play every day all day. Yesterday I was saying something, kind of to him but kind of to myself, lets just say I wasn't speaking clearly. Everett says "Mom, I can't understand you." Never thought the day would come when we would switch roles, Its usually me who is saying that. He never ceases to make me laugh.

Last night for Family Home Evening our lesson was on how to pray. We had a 'Thank Thee' bag and a 'Please Bless' bag and then we put papers in them to show what to pray for and what goes in each bag. He did very well, and then we went and got some ice cream at Dairy Queen. We pulled up to the window to order, when I suddenly hear Everett's window rolling down he then proceeds to order for us "Ice Cream Please!" I absolutely am in love with him. after our Ice Cream we got ready for bed and started to say our prayers. He usually repeats exactly what I say, but this time as he repeated our prayer he also said "Thank thee for Ice Cream" He understood the lesson, he was so grateful for ice cream he just had to tell Heavenly Father. I am learning from him so much each day, he fills my world with innocent joy.

Phrase of the DaY

2010-02-27T08:42:00.000-08:00

This one comes from Everett while in the bath: "Mommy, come look!! My hands and feet are all 'Wrinkey'."

Love him.

The List

2010-02-22T09:14:00.001-08:00

Ah, the pregnancy ramblings! Here it goes....

This pregnancy really has gone really fast, only 3 months left.

I didn't feel like a fatty with Everett or Harry

I fee like a major fatty with Jane, I'm sure it's because I didn't have time to work off my baby weight with Harry.

Am I really pregnant again?

I am HorMONaL! Before I found out it was a girl I told Jack "it better be for how crazy I feel."

I am almost always freezing

I have heartburn. Big surprise right?

My body has a LOT of aches in weird places (build up from my last two pregnancies)

I am so excited for Everett and Harry to have this little girl in their lives.

I have these weird "HiCCUps" (that is the only word I can use to describe it). Its not like normal hiccups 'OH no!' they are completely random and I have no control. It is basically One GIANT hiccup and then I'm good.

did I mention I am hormonal? Poor Jack....mmmm....scratch that...PoOR me!

I am so excited for Jane to come! I wish it was tomorrow.

I asked Everett a few weeks ago "who's in mommies belly?"

Everett:"Thomas the Train"

Mom: "Really, that would be a little weird don't you think?"

Everett: " No. Chugga, chugga Choo CHoo"

please tell me I am not pushing out a train!

Am I really pregnant again???

I really want Everett potty trained, but I am too much of a push over to follow through. Every time I ask him he says "No, mommy I am fine"

Me: "Do you want a treat?"

Everett "Yeah"

Me: " Then you need to go poop in the potty"

Everett: "No, I am fine"

Me: "Grrrr...."

If I wasn't pregnant I would have Mono. I have no energy and could sleep all the time.

Yes, we are naming our little GIrl Sarah Jane Roberts. Don' worry Jack's idea and I am so honored I could cry, oh yeah I did. We will however be calling her Jane.

Really hoping the Hernia on my belly (from Harrison's pregnancy) would stop popping out.

Okay, funny joke everyone, the gag is up..... No way am I pregnant again!

I am losing control of my bladder. Oh, come on! I am only 24 this isn't suppose to happen yet! Let's just say its when I sneeze.

Fat Face, yippee.

I really don't complain too much about my physical looks when I am pregnant. I mean come on you are growing a baby you are supposed to gain weight and be uncomfortable. I really do understand that. and I think pregnant women are beautiful, just not me...Okay, sometimes I think I do, but its only after a lot of work.

I love popsicles. Which is probably why I am always freezing.

I don't like eating my food. I cook for the sake of my family.

My eye sight gets worse with each child. I had to renew my license and it was a miracle that I passed, I seriously guessed.

Don't worry I do have glasses. I just never wear them....wait a minute? where are they? mm..

I never buy maternity clothes. I do however buy new clothes with each pregnancy. Honestly after wearing the same things for the past year do you think I want to do that for the next year? I have purchased a few things lately. Those who see me regularly will compliment how I look, and then you will start noticing the same thing over and over and over.

I love work-out clothes, bottoms mostly I could buy a million sweat bottoms. They are super comfy but not frumpy. Also, they don't bother my c-section scar, which is still a little sensitive.

I also love shoes. Luckily my feet don't swell.

Jack's work schedule makes me sad every sunday night. He starts the monday off by leaving at 8:00 am and doesn't return until 9:30 pm.( that is an early night). He also works two nights out of the week teaching a night class, preventing him from coming home until 10:30. If only it ended there. He also works saturdays until 1:00 pm. I know.... Super sad for me and for him.

Did I mention we only have 1 car.

Baths.

A clean house. My house is almost always really clean.

Have I mentioned how much I love Jack.

There is so much more I am sure but these are the main things in my 'Life's cycle' right now.

I posted this photo because we had no idea our journey ahead. All we knew is that there was no way we weren't going to be together. Jack is my best friend and I love him so much. Goodness, its been a ride and I know we have had trials but there is not a day that goes by that we don't love each other and our boys. The outside world keeps pounding at our door with 'bad news' but that never comes into our little sanctuary. Jack and I through it all have been nothing but solid and supportive of each other. As much as I complain I am so grateful and so blessed. Life is Beautiful ( I love that movie) That is how Jack treats me, like I am the queen of his universe.