The Lovelands

...and my little girl is growing up...

2011-11-21T08:31:00.001-06:00

I guess you could say that I've known this day was coming for awhile now. Jenna is becoming more and more independent and certainly thinks she's capable of doing all that she sees her older brothers doing. Including going potty. Last spring, when I was encouraging William to ditch the diapers, I jokingly said I would be potty training both of my babies at the same time. But part of me was serious too. So when Will FINALLY potty trained at the beginning of summer I figured Jenna wasn't far behind. She has always despised having a dirty diaper (wet or otherwise). And over the past week, I've watched a funny behavior. When she peed, she would go get a clean diaper then come to me, walking in a straddle as if she's been riding a horse for a week. She'd say, "diaper" and expect me to change her. Everytime! So I started 'offering' her opportunities to go potty in the toilet. She actually peed in the toilet a couple of times too, but she also peed on the floor and in her panties. And I've been down this road TOO many times with the boys and I know how long it takes for them to make the connection so I wasn't prepared for what happened today. Today, she knocked my socks off. I was at the computer, perusing Pinterest, when she waddled in with her 'straddle' walk and said, "poop". I figured she'd just filled her diaper and wanted it off, but since she didn't have a diaper in her hand, I asked her if she wanted to go potty. Really, I was just trying to buy some more Pinterest time. The bathroom is across the hall from my computer. She said yes so I took off what turned out to be just a wet diaper and helped her sit down on the throne. Seriously! before I had myself adjusted in my seat in front of the computer, she had climbed down off the toilet and was taking me by my hand, saying, "help". I asked if she needed help to wipe and she replied with her adorable "Yeth!" (she lisps when she says yes, or when she has a pacifier in her mouth--which is most of the time) So we went across the hall to wipe and she proudly points to the toilet and says "Poop". Sure enough, treasure in the toilet. (I'm sorry. Perhaps this a little too much information and WAY to much detail, but this is important to me to remember all the fine lines in her growing up. She is SO different than her brothers!) It's as if she knew she needed to use the bathroom and she knew what do to about it. That girl amazes me! So I guess we'll be heading out to the store to buy panties today for my baby girl who doesn't want to be a baby any more. Wow! who knew this day would arrive so quickly?

...the rest of the story...The Swing.

2011-09-09T13:06:00.000-05:00

After Josh's genius idea, which drew every one to the back yard, and ended in some tears (after Andrew sat in the swing and broke the "oh-so-strong" branch it was hanging from) (oh, the tears were from Josh, not Drew) Ben went to work.
And this is what he concocted...

He used the same tree but a different, much larger, branch to hang this.

Just Jenna...

2011-09-09T12:51:00.000-05:00

(figured it's about time to share pics of the girl)

My creative one...

2011-09-08T15:15:00.000-05:00

Josh disappeared for awhile last night. I was busy getting dinner ready so I didn't hunt him down. Just before I finished, he came in the back door and asked if I would come look at what he did.

He showed me the swing that he crafted all by himself.

Bigger and Better...

2011-06-13T12:50:00.000-05:00

How's this for one of the critters the kids found in the back yard. Imagine the size of the spider when you figure that the leaves are 2-3 inches long. It's called a trap door spider and it's built like a tank. There is NO way I could step on it, even as {SHUDDERS} much as I cringe at the sight of it. It would be like stepping on an acorn. Eeew! So we did the next best thing. Catch and release. Caught it in a jar and released it in an empty lot down the block.
I know you're jealous! I know you want to have critters like this in your back yard. Well, the only thing I can think to suggest is that you move to Tennessee and become our neighbors. I'd be happy to share....

Jenna

2011-06-08T19:23:00.000-05:00

17 months

family pic

2011-05-14T13:37:00.003-05:00

Just a snapshot of our family at the Atlanta Temple openhouse.

It's official...

2011-03-30T14:32:00.000-05:00

Today I went from this...

to this. Makes me a little sad, in a way.

Guess it's about time!

One Year Old Jenna

2011-01-14T07:34:00.002-06:00

Happy Birthday. Here, want some?

New Year, new 'do

2011-01-01T09:24:00.001-06:00

I did it. I finally did it! I got brave enough to commit to something different; a long over-do change. I got a new hair cut and I actually like it. It will take some time to get used to, and to learn how to do my 'do, but I like it. Over ten inches of locks were donated to Locks Of Love. Almost makes me feel lightheaded
Happy New Year!

...And May All Your Christmases Be White...

2010-12-25T14:05:00.001-06:00

Well, Merry Christmas, Ya'll!
This is what we woke up to this morning. Unusual for these parts! We love it though!
Apologies to the locals. It seems that the snow followed us from Illinois.

(Please don't notice the date. It's not accurate. Ben changed the batteries in the camera and didn't reset the date. Oh, and pardon the construction equipment in front of the house. It's not my husbands 'project car'. I does belong to a contracted construction crew. They assure as that they're almost done, but I've been hearing that for a month. Of course the project completion date was Nov 15, and we still can't use the road.)

Baby Jenna is growing up!

2010-12-15T12:00:00.001-06:00

It's exciting and sad at the same time, but my sweet baby girl is growing up. She's been capable of walking for a few weeks now, but suddenly it just all came together for her. Crawling isn't cutting it anymore--it's gotta be on her feet! And when she tries to run...Oh What Laughter! She has the most adorable little shuffle. Oh, how I love this little girl!

First Snow Day in Tennessee

2010-12-12T18:18:00.000-06:00

Yeah. So this is what things looked liked like this afternoon when we got the call that school's cancelled tomorrow. For SNOW! Hmmm.

Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T11:57:00.001-06:00

We didn't go far for Thanksgiving this year. In fact, we stayed so close to home that you could say we didn't even leave the house. Lame, I know. But it worked for me. I enlisted the help of all the kids; Ben had to work late so he slept thru most of the morning while we were busy.
Andrew was in charge of the green bean casserole.

Josh made delicious garlicky mashed potatoes--REAL mashed 'tatoes.

Michael had fun with a knife and a stack of veggies, resulting in a marvelous relish tray.

William helped keep Jenna busy with all sorts of things.

And I, I smoked the turkey. I know it's not the prettiest bird, but it was tasty and thats what matters most at our house.

Halloween 2010

2010-11-04T10:59:00.001-05:00

Ok, so this is actually costumes for a Ward Trunk or Treat, but since that's all we did, this is all I have.
Jenna-little ballerina, Andrew-well, you can choose if he's Napoleon Dinamite or just Andrew, Joshua-again, you choose if he's a braniac nerd or just Joshua, Michael-Stitch, and William-Superman!

Bugs, Bugs, Bugs!

2010-08-24T21:13:00.000-05:00

We've been in Tennessee less than a week and haven't adapted to the appetite of the mosquitoes yet. These are pics of William's face and arms and Michael's legs after only an hour outside. In case you find your self in similar shoes (didn't get the bugspray out fast enough) Caladryl is the BEST friend of a bug eaten body. Love that stuff!!

Moving...Again...

2010-08-13T22:57:00.001-05:00

I would really like to play catch up on our fun summer, but I'm just too busy packing...Again! But this time, we're moving to Tennessee. We leave on the 18th of August. When we get settled down south, I promise to fill you in on the fun, the sorrows, the pictures, the miracles, the summer!

Jenna's 6 month visit

2010-08-02T21:10:00.000-05:00

Andrew's first Scout Camp

2010-07-30T20:39:00.000-05:00

We got back from our trip out west just in time for Andrew to leave for his first Scout Camp. He went to Camp Freeland Leslie in Wisconsin. ...gone for an entire week!

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T22:42:00.000-05:00

(Michael was the one to make the special door hanger, but William wouldn't let me take a picture of him with it, until after he -william- had his picture taken!)
Happy Father's Day to all you DADS!

Spelling Bee news

2010-06-04T09:53:00.004-05:00

So, my nephew Tom, (who's Andrew's age) made it to the National Spelling Bee. Reports are that he's doing great! He's made it thru the first two rounds...we'll see how well he does today!
Here are some internet links of his progress.
http://www.ctpost.com/national/slideshow/2010-Scripps-National-Spelling-Bee-813.php#photo-1
and
http://www.ctpost.com/national/slideshow/2010-Scripps-National-Spelling-Bee-813.php#photo-8

First foods...is it really time for that?

2010-06-02T22:02:00.002-05:00

Jenna's first solid food was sweet potatoes. She seemed to be enjoying them....until she found her thumb!

surprises

2010-06-02T19:58:00.003-05:00

...downloading the pictures and found this one....I think it will be great for blackmail later on, don't you?

and I found this one...

and this one...

and these...

Mr G Q

2010-05-30T21:58:00.000-05:00

Michael helped get William dressed for church...Truth is, he's not colorblind. He really did think this matched!
(So we took some pictures, and ate lunch, then I could change his clothes without hurting Mick's feelings)

visitors

2010-05-21T20:50:00.000-05:00

I had a surprise visit from my niece, Lori, and her boys. It was so fun to see her again, and to meet her sweet boys!
Thanks for taking the time to stop and visit!

Moving Day

2010-05-13T16:30:00.001-05:00

Moving day...Almost all done packing....

Cloud Gate in Chicago

2010-05-09T20:44:00.003-05:00

I had a visit from someone I went to Jr High with...Regan Grandy. He was attending a conference in Chicago, so we met up with him in the city, had dinner and some fun conversation in Millenium Park.
Here's our family at the Cloud Gate (or The Bean)

Mickey

2010-05-09T20:37:00.002-05:00

a hint of some of what's been happening in our world...

almost a characture

2010-05-09T19:14:00.000-05:00

I love this picture. I know it's a little exagerated, but sometimes, it seems like her big, blue eyes are really this big and blue.
I just adore this sweet girl!

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T18:35:00.003-05:00

I am a mother. I love all that is said in that sentence. It includes the joys of motherhood, the frustrations of motherhood, the sleepness nights of 'new' motherhood, the seasoned hugs of 'old' motherhood, it may even include a few tears, but it also holds the fun yet to come.
Well, Andrew got me this year. What an absolute sweetheart!!!
First, he gave his first sacrament meeting talk today--Mother's Day. Ben helped him prepare and included a marvelous tribute to motherhood. Thanks, boys!
Then, after church, Andrew handed me this poem that he had written.

MOM

You are my mother
You gave birth
To me
Caring
For me
Ever so
Gently
Loving
As a mother
Should be
Your cooking
Warms my soul
Your long
Curly
Brown
Hair
Your soft
Smooth
Skin
I cannot hear you
Creep up
Behind me
&squeeze
So tightly
You smell
So much
Of love
I cannot
Describe it
You & love
Are one
You are like
A Popsicle
On a hot
Summer's
Day
You are like
An angel
Living with me
You are
My mother
And I
Love you

Is that not SO sweet! Andrew, I love you too. Thanks for making motherhood so wonderful!

Happy Mother's Day to all the MOMs who read this!

Really?!

2010-04-24T09:04:00.000-05:00

I heard Jenna start to fuss, but I was busy for just a few minutes. I also heard her settle down after about a minute. When I went to check on her, this is what I found. (notice the pacifier on her shoulder)

Jenna's Blessing Dress

2010-03-18T18:45:00.004-05:00

Little Miss Jenna was blessed on March 7th. I'm finally getting around to posting pictures of her in her beautiful blessing dress. Her dear Grandma Loveland made her dress with a whole lot of love attached! Thank you so much, Linda!!! I made the darling little bracelet on her wrist. When she was blessed, I didn't get her hair bow on (I was too busy worrying about getting her fed before Sacrament Meeting and I failed at that. Ben was feeding her a frozen bottle during the opening song). So when I took these pictures, I put a couple of bows in her hair. (Just in case you wonder why they are different, now you know.)
Ben gave her a beautiful priesthood blessing, mentioning blessing of health and strength and joy as she grows. Stating that she'd be an influence for good in our home, and that she'd grow up to be the kind of woman Heavenly Father intended for her to be. I know there were other things he said, but those few things stood out in my mind.

Here are a few more pictures of her in her dress

Happy St Patty's Day

2010-03-17T14:37:00.000-05:00

an explanation you've been waiting for....

2010-03-10T20:29:00.002-06:00

I just opened an email from one of my dear sisters. This is what it said:
"Women are angels. When someone breaks our wings, we still continue to fly... on a broomstick. We're flexible."

Makes perfect sense to me!

It's all about love and admiration

2010-03-05T09:46:00.002-06:00

And the newborn staring contest!

Just for Grandma...

2010-03-05T09:44:00.000-06:00

Lil' Miss Jenna

2010-02-18T18:17:00.000-06:00

Isn't she just beautiful? Even with her baby acne and her scratched up cheeks, I just adore this face.

Do these feet make my butt look big?

2010-02-16T17:33:00.004-06:00

I just couldn't help it! After we got back from the Dr, Jenna took a nap. I went to check on her and found this beautiful picture. I just couldn't resist the photo op.
(In her defense, she really does have long feet AND long toes. Poor girl)

New pics of the little girl....

2010-02-16T15:41:00.005-06:00

Has it been one month already? Yep! Jenna's 4 weeks old. And still treasured just as much as the day she was born! We have had a few adjustments we've had to make. The biggest one, of course, is all the pink around the house now. I love it! Ben and Andrew are the best...with comments like 'pink explosion' and 'it's like a volcano of PINK erupted'. It's true. We have pink or remnants of it in every room in the house. Someday, I'll get back to cleaning up, but for now I'm just lovin' it.
So I took William and Jenna to the doctor today. Jenna, for her 1 month check; Will, for his 2 yr check. And once again I sing praises for our pediatrician! He is the best!!! But in the 'get out the door' part of our morning, I forgot the camera and didn't realize it (of course) until I was undressing Jenna for the nurse. Sorry I don't have pictures at the Dr office, but I have these rather recent pics instead. (disclaimer for William--he's hard to take a picture of now. If he sees the camera come out, he wants to be the one taking the picture. Sometimes it feels like a race to click before he tackles me for the camera!)

Oh, you may be interested to know that Jenna now weighs 8 lbs 5 oz and has uncurled to 22 inches long. (that puts her at 22% for weight and 80% for height) And Will weighs in at 27 1/2 lbs and is 34 inches tall (putting him at 44% for weight and 32% for height)
Jenna is still in newborn diapers after a month. Size 1 are just TOO big! They come up to her arm pits. William, on the other hand, came home from the hospital in size 1 diaps. NB diapers were TOO small for him. How insane is that!

Jenna Marie

2010-01-17T05:45:00.007-06:00

Finally, I've got a second to post a few pics of Jenna. It's so wonderful and different having a baby girl. Wow! Who-da-thunk. But it's all so sweet and definitely worth the wait.

Announcing.....

2010-01-15T07:06:00.000-06:00

Thursday....or maybe not!

2010-01-12T15:11:00.003-06:00

Just a quick note--well sort of. I just got back from my last prenatal visit. Yay!! The better part of that is that the Dr. doesn't want to chance the baby flipping again before Thursday so she's sending me to the hospital this afternoon. Please don't take it personally that I didn't call you and tell you. I don't have time to be on the phone right now. I need to go wake up Ben and let him know he's NOT going to work tonight! Then I need to pack. (yep, even with the good advice from many, I still don't have a bag packed. I've got time!)
Watch for pics of a very modest little girl later tonight. (I hope)

...and the results are in....well, almost

2010-01-11T13:41:00.002-06:00

OK, so we just got back from yet another ultrasound. But this time, we have some wonderful news! (at least it tickles me pink!) By nothing shy of a miracle, and as a result of answers to many prayers and much faith, the baby has turned and it settled into a head down position. So Thursday, here we come! I'm even looking forward to an induced labor and delivery. (Now I just need to remember that in the thick of things...)
You can look forward to more info on Thursday.

Sunday morning challenges

2010-01-09T08:04:00.004-06:00

I don't know how many of you struggle with being on time for church, but it seems to be a constant struggle for me. Too many times we skirt in to Sacrament Meeting right after the opening prayer and call it 'on time'. Ben, on the other hand, counts us as late if we have less than 10 minutes to wait before the Prelude music stops. (ok, so he's often there early for meetings, and I'm the one with the kids. But still, it's not a good excuse!)
Well, help is on the way. I came across this article which makes SO much sense to me--not just for Sunday mornings, but every morning. (I'm building our schedule right after I post this). Read it and tell me what you think.

January 14

2010-01-08T12:53:00.003-06:00

We have plans now, for the 14th of January. I will have another ultrasound on Monday, Jan 11th to once again check the position of the baby. If it is still breech, then I'm scheduled for a C-section early on Thursday (Jan 14). If, by a miracle, the baby has positioned itself properly with the head down, then I'll start on Pitocin Thursday morning and have news by afternoon. (I hope!) Anyone who would like to join us in praying for a miracle (that the baby will make the turn on its own) we would certainly appreciate your prayers! We had discussed the option of attempting to turn the baby externally, but after a few more questions and alot more information, it seems to be running too big a risk of an emergency c-section. I'd rather have it planned for than rushed into. So, either way, we're going to have a baby!

Ultrasound results....are you ready?

2009-12-24T14:34:00.002-06:00

So when Ben got home from work this morning,I hauled him off with me to the get an ultrasound. And the results you've been waiting for?....Well, that depends on if you're ready to hear or not!
Here's what we learned. The baby is measuring to be closer to 37 weeks than the 36 I was judging. That's kinda good news. The other part of that is the tech estimates the baby to be just shy of 7 lbs now--and still has time to grow more. Boy, can you tell I'm looking forward to delivering another 10 lb baby! And the other exciting news? As of today, the baby is presenting breech--as in bum first. Not sure how I like that news. I don't know why I'm so scared of a C-section, but I'd rather deliver a 10 lb baby naturally! We'll see what's the option when I see the Doctor on Monday.
And of course, I'm certain that you all want to know if it's a Pink or a Blue future? Well, how do I break the news gently.....Um....The truth is ....We still don't know. Silly little baby! It's not a matter of not seeing, it a matter of not being able to see because the umbilical cord is still running between the legs. This baby is a good secret keeper! Even better than me! So, now you know as much as we know. Hope you're not terribly disappointed. And if you are, you'll have to get over it. (that's what Ben tells me, anyway.)
Merry Christmas...And God Bless Everyone.

A mother's influence...

2009-12-18T19:48:00.002-06:00

(just a note for non-mothers or moms of children who are no longer toddlers and don't remember---You can not be in the bathroom/shower with out company if you have a toddler)
So I shaved my legs in the shower this morning (yes! I can still reach to shave! Yeah!) After I was done, I was standing in front of the mirror to complete my face ritual when William parked his can beside me. He rummaged around in "Dad's drawer" before coming up with a razor (yeah, Ben does have them--even if he doesn't use them....) then I watched him methodically raise his leg, lift his pant leg and proceed to 'shave' his little leg. (thankfully, it still had the cover on the blade) I couldn't help but laugh! Apparently, someone was watching me when I wasn't aware. And apparently, Mom's do have a strong influence on their children--even little boys.
Shhh, don't tell. Someday he'll grow up and be embarrassed that I caught him 'shaving'. But I'm his mother, and it's my prerogative to share, at least for now.

a good belly laugh with mom's of boys!

2009-09-12T15:34:00.002-05:00

I was blog lurking and found a lead to this thread. Sorry I don't know a fancy way to post it, but hopefully you can find the link and have a good laugh. I'm sorry to/for you mom's of girls. This is the fun you get to miss out on!
http://theblogfrog.com/psearch/ViewThread.aspx?threadID=3169&blogID=104191

Two sides to every story

2009-09-10T15:22:00.002-05:00

There is this blog that I've been following. I don't like to admit to being a blog-lurker, but I am--on several blogs. They are the kind that help inspire you, encourage you, and remind you (ME) of the things that really are important. So back to this blog I've been following. http://mytricuspidatresia.blogspot.com/. Paul Cardall is an amazing pianist (he's also LDS). He's been waiting for a heart transplant for over a year. What an amazing story his life has written! I saw his wife has posted today that he has recieved a heart. And as he has posted (I guess this has been on his mind alot) many times how that heart is a bitter-sweet blessing. It brings a new birth for him, but means that another family will be mourning the loss of a loved one. It makes you look at life in a new light.
Congratulations, Paul, on your new heart. Our prayers for an un-complicated and full recovery for you, and prayers of comfort for another family!

the pics you've been waiting for...

2009-09-02T14:35:00.003-05:00

Yes, we have news to share. Our family is growing. Unfortunately, I can't tell you if it's going to stay BLUE or if there will be some PINK in the mix. But beleive me, I'll let ya'll know as soon as I learn!

Not my favorite, but it is a close-up of the head.

Baby due January 21st 2010

the care and keeping of children....

2009-08-31T21:10:00.000-05:00

Tonight for FHE, we had a discussion about the care and keeping of children, broke the news to the kids, and thought things were going beautifully. About 15 minutes into the conversation, Joshua turns to Andrew and says, "Wait, Mom's gonna have a baby?" Does he do the same thing at school? How much of life is that boy missing!! Maybe he IS blond.

William--the little boy

2009-07-06T08:21:00.000-05:00

4th of July BBQ

2009-07-05T07:44:00.000-05:00

Ben made some delicious ribs (St Louis style with KC sauce) for the holiday weekend.
William was a big fan! (as were the rest of us, but I didn't take pics of the rest of us eating...)

The power of Chex Mix and corn squares

2009-06-23T16:35:00.000-05:00

(I know, it's about time for a new post, and you'll probably be disappointed with what I post, but get over it! I'm posting!)

I hybernated with a book today. I grabbed a bag of Chex Mix and headed to my room to read. I had a few minutes before William found me. ...then he discovered the bag of Chex Mix. He stayed busy for nearly 1/2 hour meticulously picking out the yellow (corn) cereal squares and putting them in his mouth. If he pulled out a brown (wheat) cereal square, he'd offer it to my mouth. If he picked up a cracker, or a pretzel, or a bagel chip, he'd try to feed it to me. But if it was a yellow cereal square, it went straight to his mouth!! I had no idea a kid could be so pickey. It's not like the pieces taste that different. But he didn't want anything to do with any of it--unless it was a corn square!
Silly boy.

LOL

2009-04-01T10:56:00.003-05:00

Ben and I were looking thru the ads this morning. There was one that had a variety of Orchids on sale. I said to Ben, "Would you like some orchids?" and he replied, "More kids? Don't we have enough?!" I started laughing and he just looked at me. "More kids? Isn't that what you said?" he mocked. .... oh for heaven's sake! I love his sense of humor!

Michael...

2009-03-25T21:13:00.002-05:00

Michael has learned the amazing power of combining letters---words!He's been reading everything, and writing everything he can. He's perfectly content with a book or a pencil and paper. Yesterday, he was working on his homework-writing down his sight words. After a few minutes, he brought the paper back to me. He'd written down Mike and Mice and wanted to know which one spelled 'Mickey' (that's his nickname). He was disappointed to learn that neither one worked, that instead he needed all those extra letters. He told me Michael was good enough...

dinner-time conversations (the boy version)

2009-03-22T14:06:00.002-05:00

Though I'm tempted not to share, this is a sample of life in a house of ALL boys!
As we are finishing up with our Sunday dinner (Ben wasn't home yet, it was just me and the younger boys) Andrew pulls out this Rubik's puzzle toy and he was 're-shaping' it. Joshua says (and not quietly) "That looks like a toilet!". I'll admit, it caught me off guard. And in all seriousness, I wanted to say (loudly) in return, Josh, we don't need to talk like that.. But instead, I figured, If you can't beat 'em, join em. So our conversation carried on and we expanded our 'toilet' vocabulary to include other words such as commode, throne, WC (water closet), squatter, and toilet (that's with the French pronunciation...)
What good table conversation, wouldn't you say?

Gratitude 4 the Temple

2009-03-10T20:45:00.001-05:00

Today I'm grateful for the Temple. I'm grateful for a young man who had the faith (and courage) to offer a heartfelt prayer in a grove of trees. I'm grateful for a loving Father who called a prophet in our dispensation. I'm grateful for the restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and also the restoration of the Priesthood power. I'm grateful for my family. I'm grateful for the saving ordinances which are performed inside sacred temples of God. I'm grateful for Eternal Marriage, and therefore, Eternal Families. I'm grateful for the beauty and peace we find in the temples, after which we pattern our own homes. I'm grateful for the Temple.

sunshine and songs

2009-03-06T20:04:00.004-06:00

There is sunshine in my soul today.....Here in Chicago, we had the most beautiful, wonderful, sunshiney, spring weather today! I don't know exactly how warm it got (and I'm too lazy to check the weather on line) but it was warm enough to wear shorts and love it! (not me, of course. Too pastey!) I'll bet it was mid 70's though.
Sunshine and warmth do something from the inside, out. From a gospel perspective, I was reminded of this one teaching appointment we had with a neat woman named Charisse. (Lori, remember Charisse? hope I'm spelling her name right) I remember her asking us about the Book of Mormon, How did we know it's true? I can honestly say at that moment I felt the Spirit stronger than any other time in my life so far. There was a warmth that permiated from deep inside my chest all the way out to my finger tips, my toes, and the top of my head. It was followed by 'total body pricklies' (words borrowed from Lori). Many times I've reflected on that experience. I still don't have words to explain exactly, but I can say I KNOW the Book of Mormon is true. And if it's true, everything else that follows is true. I believe that living without the gospel is like living in a Chicago winter with no furnace. And having a knowledge of the restored gospel is like living in paradise(but a paradise with a beach! like, I don't know, maybe St Croix?). But as wonderful as the beach is in solitude, it's not nearly as fun as enjoying it with someone special. The Gospel is made to be shared. "It isn't good to be alone, it isn't good."
Thinking of and missing my sisters again today. Thankful for all the wonderful sisters I have! (including you! blood-sister or not)

Energy, don't leave home without it.

2009-03-04T21:03:00.002-06:00

Cub scouts it a big deal. It's the perfect chance to begin molding little boys into wonderful men. I'm still learning about Cub Scouts, but for what I've learned thus far, I'm a HUGE fan.
Eight and nine year old boys have a ton of energy! Boys alone can solve all sorts of problems. But get a group of boys together and all brains leave the group; what you are left with is a mass of expanding chaos!!! And we put them in dark blue shirts and call them Cub Scouts!...I love them.
So, the lesson I learned tonight is this; don't challenge the boys to an exercise dual. They'll win! hands down!!!
For those of you who haven't seen me for a while, I'm working to loose a lot of unnecessary body clutter! I'm making little bit and very slow progress, but it's progress none the less. And feeling as good as I do with my progress, I was feeling a little energetic tonight when we had Den meeting. We were talking about taking care of our bodies, feeding them good food, getting enough sleep, and exercising. I asked the Cubs 'who thinks they can do more jumping jacks than me'. (Did I mention they are all 8 and 9 year old boys, full of energy and the size of a sneeze?) I don't think I even made it to twenty before I was laughing so hard! I had to stop the fun and have one of the boys teach the others how to do jumping jacks. He explained that first you make an 'X' with your hands and legs. Then you make an 'I' with your body. Then you do it really fast! I'm giggling just thinking about it. We ditched the jumpin' jacks and tried basketball or running in the gym instead. I'd say that was a good option.
Maybe I can challenge them to stairs next time....

Our Father Has a Family

2009-03-03T20:14:00.003-06:00

Michael and I had an interesting conversation this morning. I heard him singing a song we learned in Primary...."God gave us families, to help us become what He wants us to be. This is how He shares His love; for the family is of God." (The Family Is of God -words and music by Matthew Neeley. Published in the children's Friend, Oct 2008)
I asked him, "Micky, do you know that God love us so much that he gave us a family to help us and to take care of us?" His answer..."Yes, and he gave us Jesus too" I can't argue with that! And there's not much teaching I can add to that either. But I did testify that he is right. Our Father gave us families. And he gave his Son. He really does love each of us THAT MUCH! In-comprehendible to me.
I can't tell you how much I love talking about families in Primary. And how I love to watch my family grow. After 1 1/2 years, I'm really missing my sisters. Chicago IS far away! So, until I can give it to you in person (for anyone who reads my blog) here's a hug...{{{a cyber hug}}}

FHE rules

2009-03-02T20:43:00.002-06:00

I look forward to Family Home Evening. Now before you get silly ideas that FHE runs smoothly at our house, let me set you straight! I've learned a few tricks that make it better that smooth or perfect. Kids need to contribute. They need to feel ownership. I've become a huge fan of FHE charts. Have I found the perfect one? NO not yet. In fact, since I change my mind frequently, I've just been creating them on the computer. We change every 6 months or so to a new chart. But for certain, I make sure that each child is responsible for something--from lesson, to conducting, from songs or prayers, to activity and treat. I want to create something that my children (yeah, even the oldest who has reached the age of everything being silly and un-necessary) will look forward to and enjoy as much as I do.
Another secret trick I picked up from our Stake Women's Conference was FHE rules. Here are the three most important (for creating the results I want)

1 Avoid Conflicts
2 Always schedule
3 Be consistant

Here are the secrets that these rules help with. First, by avoiding conflicts like arguments or addressing problems, the children (and family) will learn that FHE is a 'spiritual safe harbor' from the world. Children will want to spend time with their family, instead of secluded in their rooms. Essential relationships will be built and nurtured. Parents will become an active part of their children's lives. And children will become friends with their siblings. Save the problems and confrontations for Family Council time. It will help to part from the 'emotion' of the moment.
Scheduling can actually become a natural part of FHE. If all of the family is together, it's easy to grab a calendar and go over who's doing what, when. It's also a great way to get a heads up on the activities and commitments that everyone has going on. And my favorite--it creates a pattern for communication! (boys need help with that!!!)
One of my favorite phrases is (and I'm sorry, I don't know who said it) The best defense is a good offense. If we are pro-active, then we don't have to be re-active.
And consistancy... well I don't have to say much there. It's a matter of making priorities and creating good habits. And of course, it's heeding the words of our prophets. When FHE is consistantly held, the family members will become actively involved in creating the means to accomplish it. It creates a wondeful cycle.
Just a tidbit for parent's of the littlest angels. It still counts for FHE if you sit down and sing Jesus Wants Me For A Sunbeam and eat goldfish dipped in water (if you don't know what I'm talking about, make a visit to Nursery on Sunday!) There is a WONDERFUL resource for FHE (and families with children, especially as young as toddler aged) available from the church distribution center. It's a manual called Behold Your Little Ones.
So, there's my two bits and then some on Family Home Evening. I hope you find something useful in all these words.

William (in the news again)

2009-03-01T16:03:00.000-06:00

Can you believe the eyes on this boy? I love the blue color, and they are so big! Even though he wasn't feeling his best, I still took the shot and here I am posting it. We are all feeling so much better!

...and it's Saturday...

2009-02-28T20:57:00.002-06:00

Today our stake had a wonderful women's conference. There were several classes to choose from but we only got to choose 2 to attend. Have you ever been an kid in a candy store? The first class I caught was about family councils. Wow, do we need that! I was grateful the teacher explained how Family Home Evening and Family Councils are different. No wonder I've been getting frustrated with FHE! Anyway, I came away anxious to make some changes to our scheduled family time and start having Family Councils. I truly do love FHE and I want my kids to look forward to it every week, not just the weeks they are in charge of the lesson or activity.
So today, I'm grateful for great teachers, experienced mothers, and the Spirit to help me in this marvelous quest we call parenthood.
I'm also grateful for the weekend! (kids don't have school on Monday)

Friday's family fun night...

2009-02-27T21:30:00.002-06:00

Today...well today has been a day! I had a wonderful time at the kid's school, helping out the PTO with some fun activities during lunch. And after school, we took off and went to the DuPage Children's Museum. (It's not the Chicago children's museum, but it's closer...and cheaper since we've got a membership) I really love being with my kids! Some days you wouldn't know that...I get stressed trying to spend time with them and get my 'chores' done too. I can't beleive how fast they are getting all grown up! I want to make sure I don't miss out on a minute of it.
I'm grateful for family.

Gratitude...

2009-02-26T20:41:00.002-06:00

Ok, for any one who actually checks my blog, I'm sorry. I ask forgiveness. I signed up for Facebook and I haven't done much with my blog since! (FB has just been too much, too much fun, too much time, too many friends, too many emails...but I'm not giving it up!!!)
So I made a commitment tonight to start making regular posts. They probably won't have pictures, and they'll probably be rather personal (to me), but if you don't like that, then don't check my blog.
...so for tonight....
I'm grateful for the rain we've had today. It even came with thunder and lightning! Love that! And I'm grateful that Ben has a good job, and that we haven't bought a house yet...but I'm excited as we start looking at them. Yeah!
So there you have it. A long awaited post.
...until tomorrow...

more snow day

2009-01-30T15:02:00.001-06:00

Will and Mick in the first 8 inches of snow

Snow Day

2009-01-30T15:01:00.001-06:00

OK, so I'm a little behind....but who's noticed? (I have)
A couple of weeks ago, the kids were out of school for a snow day (and yeah, it happened several days in a row--either snow or cold) so we bundled up and went out to play. I snapped this pic of William discovering the snow 'first hand'. Too cute!

In memory of...

2009-01-07T18:33:00.002-06:00

Today would have been my dad's 82nd birthday. Ok, really, it will always be his birthday. He passed away in 2003. Happy Birthday, Dad. Sure miss you!

Christmas in Kansas....

2008-12-20T08:31:00.003-06:00

Ben surprised us when he came home from work. He says he managed to get some time off work, that he doesn't have to go in the rest of the year! So, with him freed up, we're taking an impromptu trip to Kansas for Christmas. My brother Ben and his wife Angie and their kids came to our house for Thanksgiving. Now we're taking our turn to join them. We'll only be able to spend a week ('cause I can't be gone on Sunday) but we're looking forward to spending time with family again! Thanks, Ben and Angie, for being such wonderful people! And for giving our kids a chance to get to know some of their cousins. You are the best!

Help!

2008-12-11T21:55:00.002-06:00

I need some help from you--my blog readers. I want to add a video of William and his wobbly steps. I don't know how to stick it on my blog. I can capture the video on my camera. (I love digital cameras these days!!) and I view my pics with Picasa. I just can't get them to post (like when I up load pics--but then I"m not too computer savvy either.)
Got any suggestions or tutorials?
THANKS!! in advance.
Char

a new blog...

2008-12-11T17:47:00.003-06:00

Ok, so I've seen a few of these poppin' up on some of the blogs I've been visiting. I thought it was a great idea for collecting and being able to locate recipes. It's also an easy way to share recipes. So (with all this free time I don't have!) I've created a new blog--a recipe blog. I hope to add a couple of recipes each day until my collection is complete.
Check it out and tell me what you think.
http://eats-n-treats.blogspot.com/

Also, if you want to share a recipe with me, Please! DO IT! I love getting recipes from other people!

look what William can do now...

2008-12-06T18:19:00.003-06:00

In case you can't see, he's not leaning on Ben. I even caught him later in the day....it's become a regular thing! And today, he's even started taking steps (2-3, but steps none the less. Yikes!!!)

Happy baby, sad baby

2008-12-06T18:11:00.003-06:00

pics aren't the best quality, but you can still get the idea...
guess he liked our photo session.

Photo op

2008-12-06T18:10:00.000-06:00

Just a pic I found of William.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T16:35:00.001-06:00

Hopefully you haven't noticed that it's taken TOO long to post our events of Thanksgiving, but if you have, I hope it's because you know me!
We were blessed to have my little brother Ben and his wonderful wife Angie and their kids come spend the week with us. We had a blast!!!
(Jill and Maddi, I finally understand...) Cameryn, my niece, was sweet enough to let me join her and her mom for a girls day out at the American Girl store down town. (we spent most of the day) Oh the dream world that place is!!!!! Maybe it's good that I don't have a little girl....
Thank you, Cam and Angie.
We also spent a full day a the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry to give the boys a good fix. I tell you, that is becoming one of my favorite places in Chicago. It's easy to get to (just wish we could take the train) and so much to see and do!
Then of course there was T-day.

William is 9 months old

2008-11-18T11:09:00.002-06:00

Can you believe how fast these days are flying?!?! We had William's 9 month check today. Can I just plug some praise for the Pediatrician we have here...He is so wonderful!!!! (Thanks Karen, for referring us!) Dr Russell is with DuPage Medical Group, but has a private practice (he's the only Pedi in the office). When I schedule an appt, I don't have to wonder who we'll see--it's always Dr Russell! And he's so thorough with everything. In fact, at the end of William's exam, he jokingly said,"And would you like me to rotate your tires today too?". Sometimes it feels like he's doing everything else, so why not?
Ok, so back to William... He's right on target or ahead for his age. His biggest thing is cruising-EVERYWHERE...couches, chairs, tables, stairs, and if it moves (like a laundry basket, garbage can, chair or push-toy) I can guarantee it will be under my feet in seconds! He pushes what ever he can across the room and he's so fast doing it. I have found him standing on his own several times too, but it's usually when he's standing next to the couch or something and get his hands on a toy, then he lets go of the couch or chair so he can handle the toy with both hands. He just forgets to sit down to handle it. He loves to play pat-a-cake, and he love peek-a-boo. He does NOT like his crib. He's still nursing and prefers to sleep with me (which is fine when Ben is gone, but even a King isn't big enough for three of us to sleep good comfortably when Ben is home) He manouvers stairs nicely, but does a better job of going up than coming down. He's got the crawling down great and gets where he's going pretty fast! He still crawls on his right knee and left foot- just like Andrew did. And speaking of feet, the kid has skis! (I wonder where he got those from, ha ha ha) I finally got him a pair of shoes--size 5! His first pair of shoes are a size 5! The rest of him is trying to keep up. He's in the 38% overall, which makes him seem on the small side. I think it's more that he's been about the same size for 3 months. But he's finally over 20 lbs. (20.1 lbs and 27 1/2 inches) Dr Russell isn't concerned and neither am I about his growth, but it's certainly different than we projected with his size at birth! Way to go William. We sure love him and enjoy every day we have him with us.

Joshua's baptism

2008-10-25T21:21:00.000-05:00

It takes me forever to get pics up, so I'm just making a new post. Here is Joshua Steven Loveland on his baptism day, with his dad, Ben, who baptized him.
Two down....
Does anyone else see how fast their babies are growing up?

It's great to be 8

2008-10-25T10:11:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday, Joshua!!! Today is Josh's 8th birthday. We've scheduled his baptism for later this afternoon, I'll post pics then. But until then, he seems to be enjoying the day-getting his way on everything!
(spoiled kid)

Happy Birthday

2008-10-25T09:20:00.002-05:00

Today is a special day in our family. My nephew, Luke was born on this day...and so was my son Joshua.
So HAPPY BIRTHDAY boys! I hope you have the best of days.

Sheriff?

2008-10-21T20:54:00.003-05:00

Michael went on a field trip to a local pumkin farm. There was a petting zoo and a corn maze activity along with picking out their own pumpkin to take home. We happen to pass this farm on our way to church (which is where we were headed tonight for Scouts). I hear Joshua say he wants to go to the pumpkin farm for his birthday and Michael tells him there is a corn maze too! Then Mick explained that there's a secret entrance into the corn maze but he didn't get to use it because he had to stay with his 'sheriff'. Andrew pipes in, "you mean your chaparone?" "Yep," says Michael, "My shaf-ron". I guess only in Illinois, in a corn maze, that a sherrif becomes a shaf-ron. Who-da thunk?

piano...

2008-10-20T22:46:00.001-05:00

I'm in the mood to listen to some piano music. Please bear with me until I get my fix.

ForEyes

2008-10-14T08:29:00.000-05:00

The state of Illinois requires an eye exam for all Kindergarteners. We took it as an opportunity for us all to get our eye exams current. Micheal passed with flying colors!!! I guess he's got the best eyesight in our family now!
Joshua got glasses and Andrew got a stronger Rx for his glasses.

ForEyes

2008-10-14T08:23:00.000-05:00

Joshua didn't get past the eye exam without a simple addition. So this is how he'll apprear for a while now.

ForEyes

2008-10-14T08:21:00.000-05:00

Andrew's in his new glasses

29?

2008-10-10T20:46:00.001-05:00

Today has been the most wonderful day! In fact, the only time I can remember enjoying this day as much was when I turned 20. A friend of mine took me for a drive up Ogden Canyon, thru Ogden Valley, then back home by way of Weber Canyon--all with the top down on her convertible, the cool fall air ripping our hair around and the red and orange leaves planting all sorts of colorful memories. (...years later, in my old age, I still remember) Anyway, today ranked right up there on the good memories scale. Of course there were several phone calls from friends and family, my friend Amy came and spent some time with me in the morning, then an angel friend Sarah took William while Ben and I went to lunch. We went to this place called Branmore's-It's an american grill type place. Out of character for me, I ordered a steak (usually, I prefer chicken. Don't know what got into me, but it was SO good, that I admit I'll probably order it again when we go back--you know we'll be going back!) We had a wonderful afternoon together! Then I got to spend the evening with my kids. I made myself a yummy spinach and tomato pizza with a sort of alfredo-ish sauce and intentially left out the birthday cake. Ben, (one not to leave well enough alone) disappeared just before dinner and returned with a box of Zingers. He told me that since I hadn't made a cake, that he'd had to take matter into his own hands! So I got to enjoy chocolate Zingers. (chocolate is his thing! the only things I like chocolate are brownies and swiss chocolate candies. I prefer white and vanilla desserts) He also creatively fit enough candles on them to represent my age (yeah, so it took two...Someday you'll be that old too...) I don't keep track of my age-I leave that to him!! As far as I know, I'm 29!
At any rate, from morning to night it was a wonderful day!!
And last but not least, Here is a thank you to each of you who called, sent a card, or even thought about me on this special day. Also, (you'd think I could remember it, but still didn't DO it) a very special Happy Birthday wish to those in my family who share this day with me: Keola Ho, Sarah Stanworth, Camille Crabtree.
Happy Birthday to me...

Internet...do you love it or curse it?

2008-10-07T15:42:00.002-05:00

How long can you go without internet? I know there are a few people who read my blog, and perhaps you've noticed that I haven't posted anything for awhile...(ok, so I do that often and it's only been a week. It's nothing new now.) We had a wonderful time with Ben's parents! And when they left, suddenly we had problems with our internet. It wasn't their fault! Just happened to coinside with AT&T upgrading their servers, then suddenly our dsl modem wouldn't work. I survived more than a week without internet while we were waiting for a new modem! I've missed you all, missed checking your blogs, missed seeing your comments, missed telling you silly little things but mostly, I miss cable internet! Unfortunately, it's not available where we live...how can that be?
Anyway, now I'm playing catch up mostly with my overloaded email inbox, but as I catch up, I'll be posting again with pictures of some of the fun we had with G&G Loveland.
I'm back...

Grandma and Grandpa Loveland

2008-09-22T23:13:00.000-05:00

Boy, do we feel special!! Grandma and Grandpa flew from Billings to come spend a week with us. William and I stayed home while the rest of the boys went to the airport to pick them up. It would seem that Chicago travelers are getting quite the adventures this month! (Or at least those who come visit us). G&G's flight was missing nearly 1/2 the passengers because of security issues in Billings. Ahh, leg room...

there's a rat in the kitchen, what am i gonna do...?

2008-09-19T06:10:00.002-05:00

When I was living with my sister in St Croix, my niece Melissa was about 5 years old. One day, when we got the icecream from the freezer, there were some beautiful little 5yr old size finger marks across the top of it. Rachel asked Missy what happened to the icecream. Melissa replied she "didn't know, maybe it was a rat." Of course, we all knew what happened, but it became a standing joke and a reference for blame. I still use it. I guess I need to get the rat that gets in MY kitchen!

special visitor

2008-09-14T11:07:00.000-05:00

My sister Marti came to Chicago with a friend to celebrate a 'coming of age' birthday (just in case you didn't want any one to know you turned 40, Marti). They had quite an adventure coming to visit us. Chicago recieved a record amount of rainfall (7 inches in one day) and flooded out trains, plains an automobiles. We were grateful they made their way to visit with us. Thanks Marti and Melodie!

September 11th

2008-09-11T09:14:00.002-05:00

Too many of us remember this day with reverence and awe. I think it should be that way. But for many, it is also a day of celebration. So for those like my sister, Marti, I send out a shout of joy and say Happy Birthday!
7 years ago the unthinkable happened. It's a day that few can or will ever forget. Instead, we remember where we were, and what we were doing, and exactly how we felt! It was as if the world stopped turning. I'm embarrassed to say, I was still in bed, asleep. Ben called me from work and told me to turn on the tv. I remember asking what for and he just replied, 'you've gotta see for yourself.' It was surreal. I couldn't comprehend something so horrible. I waited for the 'happily ever after' to come, for the reports that everyone had been evacuated from the building and that everything was fine...And I watched in horror as a second plane hit the other Tower. ..and an eternity later...I watched the reports of the colapse of both of the Twin Towers.
I remember the silence...a sickening silence...when all planes were grounded-including all air traffic coming and going from Hill AFB. I hadn't realized how often we heard the planes fly over(we lived in the landing pattern for Hill) until we didn't hear anything for days.
7 years later, I still remember that day. I learned from those tragic events, to love the flag and to value freedom! To value the rights and priviledges I have as a US citizen. I've learned that waiting in line to go thru airport security isn't so bad.
I hope each of you remember the good that 9/11 invokes in us. Use this day to celebrate that good.

Michael's first day on the bus

2008-09-03T16:00:00.000-05:00

Micky has half day Kindergarten, which means he has a Kindergarten bus that comes to pick him up, then he gets to come home on the same bus as 'his guys'. (he endearingly refers to his brothers as "mine guys" still). The K bus stops right in front of our house- no hauling off to the bus stop for Mick. Love it!

Back to school

2008-09-02T07:24:00.001-05:00

The boys are back in school now. Andrew is in 5th grade, Joshua is in 2nd grade, and Micheal is in Kindergarten. That leaves just William to keep me company at home. I can't believe I'm saying it, but I really miss them! (Andrew has the addition of a safety vest because he's been ask to help with bus safety patrol. This is a priveledge that was recommended by his teacher last year. Now he has to keep up on attendance, grades, and homework to continue.)

Midnight Sun postponed...

2008-08-30T02:52:00.003-05:00

Oh, can it be true? Passing time while I decide what to do with my sleeping children...I came across a post that there's been a leak. Twilight is coming to theatres 3 weeks early, but Midnight Sun is being postponed indefinately. Scowl!! But the good news is, you can whet your appetite for Edward by reading a partial draft on Stephenie Meyer's website. Happy reading...
www.stepheniemeyer.com

sleeping under the stars...

2008-08-29T23:52:00.002-05:00

Years and years (and years) ago, my family used to live in Wyoming. My parents were both teachers in a small town called Burlington (somewhere slightly south east of Cody--east of Yellowstone Park). One of the perks of teaching would be the summers off. My parents took advantage of this and we would spend the summers in Driggs, Idaho--where my dad grew up. (We didn't make Driggs a permanant home until I finished Kindergarten.) Driggs used to be primarily an agricultural area. I remember as a child, sleeping out under the stars. I remember sleeping on a "big bed" (it was probably a full size...) on the front porch, or just laying down blankets on the front yard and going to sleep. I remember the rhythmic sound of the sprinkler systems on the fields around our house. I don't remember noticing the dew point until I got older. I just remember enjoying the great outdoors! I remember when 'city cousins' would come spend a few weeks with us in the summer and we'd spend all day and all night outside. And we'd poke fun that our cousins were scared to sleep outside.
Today, after dinner, I went out and laid down on the trampoline in the back yard. I was listening to the cars drive by, and the spray of the fountain across the street, and the sound of kids playing in the cul-de-sac, and the sound of someone's tv (probably mine)...and that's when I realized I'm raising 'city cousins'! I don't know what came over me, but I got this hairbrained idea to sleep outside with the kids on the trampoline. It's a great way to teach them about the dew point! It's also an excellent way to stay awake all night! And it reminds me of my mountain home so dear. So we hauled out the sleeping bags and pillows and laid 'em out on the tramp. Mick and Josh were really excited. Andrew...well, he's Andrew. He just rolled around like it was normal. I got William situated in his bed, grabbed my pillow and blanket and headed out. (Keep in mind that I'm not a small person! My children are not big people! ) I lasted almost 2 hours before I'd had enough. Of course, by now the kids are all asleep. Do I wake them? Do I let them sleep outside, alone? It's barely midnight and I'm ready to go to sleep but what do I do with the kids? I guess I'll let you know in the morning what I chose. For now, they're sleeping peacefully in the cool moist air, lulled by the songs of the crickets and cicadas, and I have free time on the computer!

Careful: He Bites!

2008-08-26T08:35:00.000-05:00

William is well on his way to become a full-fledged meat-eater.

200

2008-08-17T19:42:00.002-05:00

200?! I don't even pretend to think any of you will read all 200 facts here, but copy and paste it into your own blogs and we'll see how many things we all share in common. I think it's a fun way to get to know you--or me.

Have you ever...(if it is bold I have)

1. Touched an iceberg
2. Slept under the stars
3. Been a part of a hockey fight
4. Changed a baby's diaper
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given to a charity
7. Swam with wild dolphins
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a tarantula
10. Said "I love you" and meant it
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Stayed up all night long and watched the sun rise
15. Seen the Northern Lights
16. Gone to a huge sports game
17. Walked the stairs to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
19. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
20. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Bet on a winning horse
23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill
24. Held a lamb
25. Gone skinny dipping
26. Taken an ice cold bath
27. Had a meaningful conversation with a beggar
28. Seen a total eclipse
29. Ridden a roller coaster
30. Hit a home run
31. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking
32. Adopted an accent for fun
33. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
34. Felt very happy about your life, even for just a moment
35. Loved your job 90% of the time
36. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
37. Watched wild whales
38. Gone rock climbing
39. Gone on a walk on the beach
40. Gone sky diving
41. Ever bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
42. Bench-pressed your own weight
43. Milked a cow
44. Alphabetized your personal files(not that they are now...)
45. Worn a superhero costume
46. Sung karaoke
47. Lounged around in bed all day
48. Gone scuba diving
49. Kissed in the rain
50. Played in the mud
51. Gone to a drive-in theater
52. Done something you should regret
53. Visited the Great Wall of China
54. Started a business
55. Been in a movie
56. Gone without food for 3 days
57. Made cookies from scratch
58. Won first prize in a costume contest
59. Got flowers for no reason
60. Spoken more than one language fluently
61. Gotten into a fight while attempting to defend someone
62. Bounced a check
63. Read and understood your credit report
64. Found out something significant that your ancestors did
65. Called or written your Congress person
66. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
67. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
68. Helped an animal give birth
69. Been fired or laid off from a job
70. Won money
71. Broken a bone
72. Ridden a motorcycle
73. Driven any land vehicle at a speed of greater than 100 mph
74. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
75. Slept through an entire flight: takeoff, flight, and landing
77. Had your picture in the newspaper
78. Read the Bible cover to cover
79. Changed some one's mind about something you care deeply about
80. Gone back to school
81. Changed your name
82. Eaten fried green tomatoes
83. Read The Iliad
84. Taught yourself an art from scratch
85. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
86. Apologized to someone years after inflicting the hurt
87. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
88. Been elected to public office
89. Thought to yourself that you're living your dream
90. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn't know you
91. Dyed your hair
92. Rocked a baby to sleep
93. Ever dropped a cat from a high place to see if it really lands on all four
94. Raked your carpet
95. Worn a mood ring
96. Ridden a horse
97. Carved an animal from a piece of wood or bar of soap
98. Cooked a dish where four people asked for the recipe
99. Buried a child
100. Gone to a Broadway play
101. Been inside the pyramids
102. Shot a basketball into a basket
103. Danced at a disco
104. Played in a band
105. Shot a bird
106. Gone to an arboretum
107. Tutored someone
108. Ridden a train
109. Brought an old fad back into style
110. Eaten caviar
111. Let a salesman talk you into something you didn't need
112. Ridden a giraffe or elephant
113. Published a book
114. Pieced a quilt
115. Lived in a historic place
116. Acted in a play or performed on a stage
117. Asked for a raise
118. Made a hole-in-one mini golfing
119. Gone deep sea fishing
120. Gone roller skating
121. Run a marathon
122. Learned to surf
123. Invented something
124. Flown first class
125. Spent the night in a 5-star luxury hotel
126. Sang a solo
127. Gone spelunking
128. Learned how to take a compliment
129. Written a love-story
130. Seen Michelangelo's David
131. Had your portrait painted
132. Written a fan letter
133. Spent the night in something haunted
134. Ran away
135. Learned to juggle
136. Been a boss
137. Sat on a jury
138. Lied about your weight
139. Gone on a diet
140. Found an arrowhead or a gold nugget
141. Written a poem
142. Carried your lunch in a lunchbox
143. Gotten food poisoning
144. Gone on a service, humanitarian or religious mission
145. Sat on a park bench and fed the ducks
146. Gone to the opera
147. Gotten a letter from someone famous
148. Worn knickers
149. Ridden in a limousine
150. Attended the Olympics
151. Can hula or waltz
152. Read a half dozen Nancy Drew or Hardy Boys books
153. Been stuck in an elevator
154. Had a revelatory dream
155. Thought you might crash in an airplane
156. Had a song dedicated to you on the radio or at a concert
157. Saved someone's life
158. Eaten raw whale
159. Know how to tat, smock or do needlepoint
160. Laughed till your side hurt
161. Straddled the equator
162. Taken a photograph of something other than people that is worth framing
163. Gone to a Shakespeare Festival
164. Sent a message in a bottle
165. Spent the night in a hostel
166. Been a cashier
167. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
168. Joined a union
169. Donated blood
170. Built a campfire
171. Kept a blog
172. Had hives
173. Worn custom made shoes or boots
174. Made a PowerPoint Presentation
175. Taken a Hunter's Safety Course
176. Served at a soup kitchen
177. Conquered the Rubik's cube
178. Known CPR
179. Gone fishing
180. Found a long lost friend
181. Voted for a contestant on American Idol or So You Think You Can Dance
182. Successfully convinced someone you were of a different nationality
183. Received a promotion
184. Movie-hopped (Gone to two movies in a theater and only paying for the first movie)
185. Planned a surprise party for someone
186. Beaten all levels of a video game
187. Driven more than 2,500 miles on a cross-country trip
188. Cried yourself to sleep
189. Stayed awake for more than 24 hours
190. Crossed a national border by car
191. Been to an island
192. Been completely out of debt (student loans, house, and all)
193. Read a book from the Twilight series
194. Traveled to Italy
195. Given birth
196. Found a bra that fits perfectly
197. Learned to meditate
198. Owned your dream car
199. Learned to love eating raw vegetables
200. Seen all 50 state

...and here's what happening in our neck of the woods

2008-08-11T11:00:00.002-05:00

I remember hearing Willard Scott say that every morning growing up, as my dad watched the Today show. So, here's what new for us.
William is 6 months old today. In the last month, he's gained two more teeth (on the top, but not directly in front. Rather, they are the two on either side. So for all you Twilight fans, I'm growing my own little vampire. I'm sure those front teeth are not far behind!) He sits up big and tall. He can roll over (front to back, back to front). And in fact, he can sit up from his belly. (which means, when he wakes up in his crib, he sits up and won't go back to sleep!!!!) He's crawling all over the place and eating solid foods. His preference seems to go toward sweet potatoes or carrots over any fruit. And he LOVES graham crackers. His body seems to be slimming or maybe he's just getting taller. I don't think I should be seeing that trend until he's walking, but maybe I'm just imagining it too. We will visit the doctor next week for his 6 month check up. I've also noticed him make his preference known (like if I take away a toy that he's enjoying--he'll squeal or scream till he gets it back) and he's just started making the funniest sounds from the back of his throat or nose. He has become such an important part of our lives, I can't imagine life without him!

...And I remember when...

2008-08-01T21:18:00.000-05:00

Heres what you do:

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you.It's actually pretty cool (and funny) to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you.

towels...laughter...yeah, you better read it...

2008-08-01T20:39:00.001-05:00

Here's a 'moment' for you to laugh at. I sent Joshua (who is 7 yrs old) up to get all the dirty towels in the main bathroom and bring them to the laundry room. (with 4 boys, they pile up) He came back with a bathmat and 2 washclothes. I said (a little frustrated) Josh, go get ALL the TOWELS and bring them downstairs. I'm waiting to wash them. He disappeared and about 5 minutes later he reappeared with a laundry basket full of towels and a handfull of washcloths--still folded! I couldn't help but laugh as I took that laundry basket back to the bathroom to put away ALL the towels, then gather the dirty ones to take them to the washer. Maybe you won't laugh at that as much as I did, but I needed that laugh today!