Exiled in Florida

Gratitude

2011-12-05T07:38:00.000-08:00

Like most people at this time of year, I have been feeling more acutely grateful for the blessings in my life. I read a message by President Eyring and it touch me deeply. I have seen a direct coorelation between the gratitude that I feel and my level of happiness. My circumstances have not really changed. But I have drawn closer to Heavenly Father through gospel study, and therefore, have felt more grateful, and then more happy with my life. I like this part of his message because he stresses the need to pray for gratitude.

"Most of all, sometimes it is hard for us to be sufficiently grateful for the greatest gifts we receive: the birth of Jesus Christ, His Atonement, the promise of resurrection, the opportunity to enjoy eternal life with our families, the Restoration of the gospel with the priesthood and its keys. Only with the help of the Holy Ghost can we begin to feel what those blessings mean for us and for those we love. And only then can we hope to be thankful in all things and avoid the offense to God of ingratitude.

We must ask in prayer that God, by the power of the Holy Ghost, will help us see our blessings clearly even in the midst of our trials." (President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints).

A little blog stealing

2011-06-28T07:25:00.000-07:00

My friend Kristi finds the most inspiring quotes for her blog. This one was especially relevant to me today. So, rather than print it off and tape it to my wall I decided to copy her and put it here.

“The family by its very nature is an institution based upon righteous self-denial and sacrifice. It is not an individualistic or self-centered organization, but a highly cooperative and other-centered institution. Successful families require that men and women make substantial and long-term sacrifices of their time, money, and personal fulfillment in order to dedicate their efforts to rearing the next generation. Selfishness in any form or degree weakens the bonds that hold families together. The rise of selfishness in our society is the fundamental underlying trend that undermines families and makes successful marriages so difficult. Many today find it irrational to devote so much time and energy to the welfare of the next generation, but if this commitment is not deeply rooted in society, civilization will decline and perish, while children grow up in a moral wasteland, confused, unguided, and unloved.

“Moreover, the sacrifices that fathers and mothers make for their children ultimately will result in the greatest possible happiness for those making the sacrifices. In all of human experience, there are no joys more tender, no love more sweet, no fulfillment higher than that found in the family. Those who honor the calling of righteous parenthood will find their souls refined, their hearts purified, and their minds enlightened by the most important lessons of life. They will rise to far greater heights of happiness than those who engage in the narrow and ultimately unsatisfying pursuit of self.”

Bruce D. Porter, "Defending the family in a troubled world", The Ensign, June 2011.

"Party Fleas" and "Speed Bugs"

2011-05-16T17:50:00.000-07:00

Rather than try to describe every photo in the previous two posts I thought I would show the pictures and follow them up with a brief explanation of the party. My beautiful and talented forever-friend Irene took the pictures for me so I would be sure and put something about Millie's birthday on this blog! Knowing that- I had to go through with it! Let me just say that many, many beautiful things have happened to our family that have not been recorded on this blog. I would love to say that I have still been doing my part of "Family History" or "Family Historian" and recorded it elsewhere. But, I haven't. My daily life is a serious roller coaster of emotions. Really frustrating moments followed by mundane followed by frustrating followed by mundane followed by... glorious.

Clearly this little girl is a beacon of light and life and energy to me. She seriously sparkles when she is happy and cheerful or devious and defiant! She takes my breath away. She knows what she wants and how she plans to get it. She is only four but she is a powerful kid. For the past 9 months we have been planning her birthday party. It ended up that everyone we invited was able to attend (18 kids and most parents!!!). We had pizza and veggies and fruit- cake and cupcakes from Publix. Millie and I made the "treasure box" together. It was her idea to cluster the colors of jewels all together. She wanted her party to have princess games. When the games we had come up with went by really fast we ended up coming inside for a Family Home Evening favorite of Millie's: Charades. We decided to make it movie themed but that was a bit complicated for the kids so we ended up doing animal charades. They collected lost jewels, made crowns and shields, got wands and swords, fought off the "bad knight" (daddy) and even got to attack him with water balloons. I hope it was everything that Millie dreamed of. On my end it was more stressful than I imagined and oh-so hard to corral 18 kids to do anything much less listen to me as I set the scene for the next game but I think it was worth it. Millie hasn't started planning her 5th birthday yet- so that is a good sign. Good moments or horrible ones, I am so proud she's mine.

4 years old Part 2

2011-05-16T15:32:00.000-07:00

4 years old

2011-05-15T17:34:00.000-07:00

Kid History

2010-11-10T19:11:00.001-08:00

Joe is always showing me videos on the Internet. This is one that actually made me laugh. A lot!

This one is for Joe

2010-10-27T17:34:00.000-07:00

We miss you!

2010-08-21T10:20:00.000-07:00

Joseph: "My own body communicates to me that I need to play video games all the time." In a whining voice.

Me: Laugh.

Joseph: "No really," with a pleading look, "my own body clock says that it's time."

Me: "Maybe later bud."

A Day of Sadness and Rejoicing

2010-05-09T18:52:00.000-07:00

Today was a big day for two reasons. For about 7 1/2 weeks my dad has been battling a bout of Pancreatitis and all the complications that accompany that illness. After a blessing by the hands of my oldest brother essentially releasing him from obligation to "fight it out", he peacefully passed away at 1:51 am. My brother did not have to make the decision to take him off the various forms of life support. He simply pronounced the blessing that was God's will and within 2 minutes my father had passed. I am so grateful for all the time that I was able to spend with my father. He is a fun, passionate, loving, spontaneous, intelligent man. He is one of those people who, when focused on you, can understand you and make you feel understood. My only regret is that I don't have MORE pictures/memories/time spent with him. It is just like people/the movies always say: death really puts things in perspective. I encourage all who read this to make the most of each and every relationship they have because we truly never know how long we will have with that person. (The pictures above were taken last thanksgiving in San Diego at the Old Ferry Landing in Coronado. It was the last time we saw my father. He and MaryBeth were very helpful and fun on the beach that day.)

We rejoiced in the birth of our son Isaac today as Joe and some dear friends and family blessed him in church. The men you see in the picture are those who helped with the blessing (and our Bishop who is not in the picture). I am so grateful to have such a wonderful support group behind me. It was a beautiful blessing.

Births and deaths are a very basic and essential part to Heavenly Father's plan for us. That knowledge does not take away all sorrow and sadness but it can give us comfort as we go through life and experience loss. I know that I will see my dad again some day, that he will hold me in his giant arms and kiss my face.

Thanks to Irene!!!

2010-05-02T17:51:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Irene I have some beautiful newborn pictures of my little Isaac! She was ready to shoot when he was only a week or so and I- due to my many post pregnancy issues- was not ready for that little bit of stress until he was four weeks old!!! I am still counting them as newborn photos though! It ended up being a lot of fun- for me at least. Christian (Irene's little one year old) had another opinion I am sure but Irene handled it all like such a pro! Thank you Irene for taking the time and energy to shoot my little guy! You did fantastic!

Isaac Rafael Lowry

2010-04-09T12:51:00.000-07:00

He was born on St. Patrick's Day (March 17) a little after 3pm. He was 10 pounds 14 oz. and I had the epidural for the first time. I think it was the right decision although I still firmly believe in the benefits of natural childbirth- as crazy as most people think I am. I adore little Isaac and I am so grateful for the flood of love that comes and makes all the inconveniences of motherhood worth it. I would not say it is easier to have the 3rd child rather than the 2nd. From my experience so far it is a challenge to have children- but well worth the effort and sacrifice. The older kids love their baby brother. Joseph's preschool teacher said that in all her years of teaching she has never had a student more excited about having a sibling as Joseph is. Mr. Enthusiastic. Millie is very excited as well and likes to participate in as much as she can that has to do with the baby. It would be cuter if it didn't coincide with her absolute rebellion against any and all direction- be it gentle suggestion or loud command. She spends a lot of time in time out. Isaac seems to have an easy going temperament- we will see if that changes. I am so grateful to all the people that have called, brought food by (before and after the birth), played with my kids and offered to play with my kids. I am grateful my in-laws were able to watch the kids for a few days when we were in the hospital. That was not easy. I am also so glad that my mom got to come out and spend a week with us. It is always so special to have her here. Most of all I am grateful to Joe- who rarely understands my emotional fluctuations but is always willing to pick up the slack. It is not easy being the target of service but it is greatly appreciated. It always makes me think of the Savior.

The End is Near

2010-03-08T17:11:00.000-08:00

I don't ever remember how hard pregnancy is so I thought I would write about this time. At least this way I can make an educated decision on wether or not to get pregnant again in the future (just kidding... but not really). So if you want to remain in the dark about any discomforts of pregnancy just tune out now.

Pregnancy number three has been my most difficult by far. For the first 20 weeks I had a marked increase in nausea and vomiting, fatigue and intestinal problems. I experienced about 10 good weeks. Around 30 weeks serious hip pain began to impede sleep. As the weeks went by more physical aches and pains appeared as the baby grew and placed strain on my ever weakening yet blossoming body. Of course all the while trying my best to be a good mom dedicated to exposing my children to new experiences and people, crafts and educational preschool games. Up to this point I have felt like I "endured it well", at least I hope I have. Although I do imagine myself several times a day as a mother cat nursing her young. Have you ever seen the face on a cat while she is nursing? It was a long time ago for me but I remember her squinting her eyes slightly in an effort to relax but very clearly seeing a kitty grimace on her face. So that is the image that pops into my mind. Not because my 4 1/2 and almost 3 year old kids are still nursing- they most definitely ARE NOT- but maybe because I feel like that momma cat. Making an effort to look relaxed and enduring the pain or "hardship" of motherhood well but also exposing that secret grimace to anyone looking a little closer.

So the end is near. Of course it could not come too easily. Last week I and my two little ones came down with the nastiest cold that will not go away. You can imagine how it affects them: fatigue, loss of appetite, endless congestion, body aches and pains, coughing, ear infections, etc. I usually boast a very sturdy immune system (very sturdy people should have something to boast about, right?) but I guess not pregnant. It almost feels like it is never going away. I say almost, because I do have faith and I have been praying to get better so I can focus on bringing this baby into the world, but it is not happening as fast as I would like.

So, sadly I feel like this is the worst example I have been of "enduring to the end" in pregnancy so far. My husband comes home early to cook and clean and play with the kids. A few angelic friends have already brought me food (I haven't even had the baby yet!). I feel no guilt at laying down several times a day for a rest or simply refusing to bend over and pick up the toys, crayons, papers, pretzels strewn about the house. I complain to anyone really asking how I am doing. I am just waiting. Hopefully the weeks post-delivery will be better than these.

Happy Birthday to Lacy!

2010-02-13T05:08:00.000-08:00

This is Joe. Although this kind of thing is far from new, I wanted to let Lacy know how special she is to me and our family. Even better, I wanted to do it publicly. We met almost 8 years ago and have been married for almost seven. She's brought 2 beautiful children into this world and dedicated her life to the well-being our our family. She is selfless, thoughtful, and caring. She is a wonderful friend, a loving sister, and devoted daughter. She is the woman and wife of my dreams and I am lucky to have her.

We are about one month from welcoming a new child into our family. I am so glad that I married a woman who embraces the responsibility of motherhood the way that Lacy does. I'm even more grateful that she has chosen to put up with me. These are some pictures from the time that we've been together.

This was taken about 6 weeks before we we married.

This was at Marco Island, after our first anniversary. I love her hair in this picture.

Later that summer we went to Utah and hiked Mt. Timpanogos. One of my favorite pictures of her.

Joseph loves snuggling with his Mommy. He says that she makes him warm. No one soothes his leg aches or gives him comfort like his mom. He was around 10 months in this picture.

This is Lacy with her sweet kids. I love how Millie calls her Momma. There are MANY things that Millie prefers her Momma take care of. Can you blame her?

This was last year, the big 3-0, a surprise party thrown for Lacy and her friend Lauren by their friend Alicia (with husbandly help of course). I can't believe that a year has passed. Thank you for being who you are, and making me a better man. I love you Lacy! Happy birthday!

My First Christmas Flan

2009-12-23T21:29:00.001-08:00

Being married to a half Cuban Christmas Eve brings with it a whole new set of traditions. One of which is Noche Buena. I don't know much about it other than that Christmas Eve we get together for the big celebration of Christmas. We try to "dress up" and eat traditional Cuban food. There might be something more to it than that. In any case, this is my first time attempting to make Flan and I am so relieved and happy that it turned out. ( I made banana bread with my kids on Sunday and somehow forgot to add more than half of the mashed bananas). Anyway, I haven't eaten it yet, but it sure looks like Flan!

Halloween

2009-11-08T05:12:00.001-08:00

The kids got more interested in Halloween this year. Millie changed her mind about what she wanted to be every day leading up to it, but when it came time to get ready she was very committed to be a ballerina. What? That wasn't really one of the options. Joseph, as you can see was Buzz Light Year like his best friend Hunter. "I'm the real Buzz!" "No, I am!" They were very cute and didn't really seem to mind they had the same costume on.

Sandbox- A Huge Accomplishment

2009-11-07T20:50:00.000-08:00

My wonderful husband flexed his muscles as he built this sandbox from scratch! The first segment of the project took the better part of a saturday. He had help from our great friend Walmir- to whom we are so grateful for the tools and the labor. They got the frame of the box built and in place. It sat empty for a few days- while I and the children grew impatient. I foolishly made a trip to Home Depot to buy the Sandbox sand when I realized that it wasn't the best night to make Joe unload 1,200 pounds of sand: Wednesday (I will be at church) and the next morning we would be leaving for a trip. So we waited another week and were so happy when it was filled.

We are a match made in heaven for many reasons. One of the less glamorous being that we both sweat like crazy in this balmy peninsula.

He continued working and created an original design of folding doors to protect the interior of the box from any passing cats (which I have never seen in our neighborhood) or leaves or what have you...

As you can see the children love to make a stop in the sandbox in their circuit of destruction in the backyard. It has been really nice weather this week and we love to go outside, sit in the shade and play in the sand. The tricky part is getting Millie to keep her clothes on.

Even though Joe did all the work I felt accomplished when he was done. I was so proud of all that he did- the sweating, the hours outside and in the garage, cutting, painting, hammering. I didn't mind doing all my indoor mommy tasks as much. He made the comment that he could have bought three sandboxes for the price and time that he had spent on ours. Creating something is worth so much more than just the thing you create. I've started talking about his next project- but I don't think he appreciates that very much. Whenever you are ready- I love you- thank you!

Millie

2009-11-07T20:38:00.000-08:00

She is looking very depressed as we pull gum from her hair. Joseph took this picture.
She loves suitcases and strapping herself inside them!
I promise she thought of this on her own- there is no way she has ever seen me vacuum in heels and a dress.
My sister took this picture. It captures her beauty and her passion for sweet treats.

Joseph

2009-07-02T19:48:00.000-07:00

I wanted to dedicate this post to my son. It is his birth month and who knows if I will find the time to write between now and the actual day so here goes... I'm sure my two readers already know the story of his rocky start, but just in case... he was born with something called Transposition of the Great Arteries. His body was getting blood that was only 32% oxygen saturated due to a major heart defect. He was taken from my arms almost immediately after birth, intubated and examined by various doctors and specialists. The day after he was born he was flown to Miami Children's Hospital where genius Doctor Redmond Burke performed a surgery to correct his defect. He had open heart surgery at 6 days old. It was a wild, emotional roller coaster to say the least.

These pictures were taken in rare but much appreciated moments of peace.
He quickly grew as strong and healthy as any average baby...

See if you can pick him out here (Hunter is in this picture as well!)

Me and Joseph, my sister Lillie and Sophia, and my sister-in-law Jeannette and baby Ryon

We each had babies within the time span of two months. It was and continues to be so fun to get together with our kids that are the same age! Don't we look tired!
I think that if you asked him, this would be one of the highlights of Joseph's life. Driving a go-cart with his dad. What could be better. He really loves everything about his daddy and loves spending time with him any time he can. They are also very similar in interests and personal strengths.

When I found him like this the other day I had to work to keep from gagging. I was raised in a family that kept butter out on the counter so it would be soft and spreadable when one wanted toast. At first Joe thought he was going to get sick from it but he quickly caught on and gives me a hard time if I forget to put a new stick out for his toast the next morning. Anyway, Joseph apparently could not wait to get his finger into it and chow down. He is usually very dependent on me to get his snacks so I guess I was a little proud that he just went for it while I was out of the room.
Joseph has been really interested in lizards for awhile but this was the first time he caught one and made friends with it. He was very sweet with it and kept talking to it like it was a little friend. I am also proud to say he did not end up killing it on accident or anything. He let the little guy down and we told him he went home to his family.
Joseph will be 4 at the end of this month and this is my favorite age, I think. He is so lovable and so loving. So compassionate and while he maintains his strong will and PASSION for life he is more reasonable and responsive to gentle prodding by mom and dad to do things a little differently. Tonight he got so excited at the prospect of earning a quarter by cleaning the toy room and saving it in his piggy bank. While I know that cleaning up after himself should not require cash reward, I am excited to teach him the value of money and hard work and reaping what you sow. He is saving up for some jacks that he saw at the grocery store. I really am so lucky to have this little boy in my life and my family. I love you Joseph!

John and Semra are Back...

2009-06-10T05:39:00.000-07:00

...and as you can see they have a fun effect on us! We are so glad they are back in the good old USA!

Joseph's Joy School Graduation

2009-06-08T20:18:00.000-07:00

Joseph graduated from Joy School this weekend and it was a small milestone in our lives. We are so grateful for the program- for the wholesome values that it reinforced or sometimes taught to our sweet son. It is truly a joy to have a family and see things through their little eyes for the first time. I would like to thank his teachers, Miss Angela and Miss Lisa for loving my son, showing interest in his future happiness and for your patience. You are both great examples of the things you taught him. He seemed to especially like the songs, the toys at free play time, the little toads, the friends that he made and the exercises that you taught him. Every once in a while I would be stretching and he would show me some of his moves, very impressive.

Joseph loves babies and continually reminds me that he wants a baby to hold. This baby is Hunter's little brother. Mima and Papa were able to come and watch Joseph "graduate". They are so supportive.
Miss Angela and Miss Lisa have done such a great job. They love Joseph and are interested in his life. They frequently shared with me the entertaining antics that Joseph was involved in at Joy School that make him unique- because he is definitely unique.
He has grown up so much this year. Even though he looks like he cannot sit or stand still he can take direction so much better than he could a year ago.

We were able to make a family flag for the graduation. Joseph's contribution to the flag was the family portrait. Two funny things about it: 1) when he was drawing himself he drew a huge head and then he said, "And this is me with a big friendly smile," and he drew a huge smile across his huge face. Then he drew a tiny Millie and then he wanted to draw himself again... Millie's contribution were various scribbles as she said things like, "My California, My Florida, circle, circle, Joef's (Joseph's) Joy School, Mee (Millie's) music class."

It was so fun to see him participating in the program with his class. He got to sing a special song titled "Talk, Talk, Talk" with his best friend Hunter, a very appropriate choice if you ask me or Alicia. The chorus says, "Talk, talk, talk. Don't fight or shout! Talk, talk, talk till it's all worked out!"

Tennessee

2009-05-25T06:25:00.000-07:00

We went to Cracker Barrel on two different occasions on this trip!
I am so in love with her curls!
Amber just looks like one of the little ones!
A beautiful paved trail we were able to "hike" with our kids in a stroller!
Adorable boy in a hollow tree- what fun!
The Boys and their little guys!
Carter was such an easy guy to get along with!
Evan looking as handsome as ever!
We were so cold- but happy to take a drive to the top of one of the mountains! Amber and Kira were so much fun. I love to see them as mothers and watch how they parent. I am so glad that Joe's closest friends from college married women that I can get along with so well!

You should be aware of the difference between the smog/pollution and the natural blue mist that the Smokey Mountains produce that give them their name.
The kids helped me wake Joe up one morning!

My kids being cute and throwing rocks in the river.
Bear.
We had an awesome trip to the Smokey Mountains in Tennessee last weekend. We met up with two of Joe's closest friends from college and their wives and sons. We stayed in a cabin together- each had our own bedrooms and bathrooms. We bought groceries and had a nice little place to live for a few days. It was 100 times more fun than staying in hotels. The kids were wild but safe and we were able to either pack up and run around the foothills and small mountains or just lounge about the cabin. A highlight of the weekend for me: the "church meeting" we held in the cabin on sunday. It was very spiritual and made me even more grateful for friends that place their relationship with Heavenly Father at the top. There is something about seeing guys that are so at home cracking jokes and doing silly things all the time that aren't afraid to show their sensitive/spiritual side.

We saw a bear, lots of deer, a Scottish Yak looking thing and other more common wildlife. I also got to meet Joe's mission president and his wife. We were not smart enough to take a picture but it was a very nice visit and delicious food. I love you guys and I can't wait to get together in two years!!

Small Victory

2009-05-05T20:26:00.000-07:00

Today I had one of those moments where you feel like, "This is why I stay home with my kids. This makes all the tough stuff worth it."

As of yesterday I thought it would take months for Joseph to warm back up to the pool. As of yesterday he would not practice any of his former swimming skills. We've been swimming off and on for a month already but he would not jump in the pool from the side- even where he could touch. He would not put his face or head in the water and if there was a float around he begged to be in it and "swim" on top of the water. He would not let me hold him in the water. He would not try to swim anywhere, to me, from me, or by himself. Even though he took lessons and swam well last summer, he insisted that he could not do any of those things. That he was too scared and there was no way. He would not listen to bribes or reason or playful attempts to get him in the water. We left the pool feeling discouraged to say the least.

I don't know if it was the heat and nice temperature of the pool, or the fact that it was just the three of us, or if it was Millie swimming that looked so fun, but today he swam. He started out sitting on the steps but he quickly began putting his face in the water and laughing, swimming in place over the steps, and gradually swimming farther and farther distances under water from the steps to the wall. It was fantastic. He even started experimenting with a new skill: picking up his head mid-swim and taking a few breaths or continuing with the doggy paddle. All he required of me was attention and lots and lots of praise. Now, that I can do.

The best part of the whole thing is how pleased he was with himself. How the fear was gone and replaced by confidence and joy at having tackled that fear. He did not want to leave the pool- he was having so much fun. I actually looked around and thought, "What better thing could I be doing with my time?"

I do have those moments, frequently. I should write them down more often so I remember how amazing it is to be a mother.

Millie Turns 2!!!

2009-04-27T20:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Millie's birthday and I could not be more proud of my little girl. Despite occasional tantrums and irrational arguments with her brother she is everything I have ever wanted in a daughter. I am truly so lucky to be her mom.

Picking Strawberries at Rogers Farm

2009-04-13T20:52:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend we went as a family to pick strawberries. The weather couldn't have been more perfect. Just a bit of the trademark humidity in the air that Floridians know so well, rain clouds threatening but not giving anything up and a nice strong breeze. It was beautiful. The kids were great. At one point Millie said she wanted to kiss a strawberry. So after picking one she slowly put it to her lips to kiss, she couldn't contain herself and bit right in. It was adorable. As a family we collected about 10 pounds of strawberries. 10 pounds for $10. Not too bad. Later that day Joe made strawberry jam so we have a nice little stash. It was great fun.

2009-04-08T20:07:00.000-07:00

My friend just sent me these pictures of Joseph and I think I am going to have to go kiss him in his sleep. He is so lovable and endlessly loving and affectionate. What would I do without him?

My Faith

2009-03-17T10:07:00.000-07:00

It is always interesting to hear the misconceptions that exist about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The Temple is sometimes misunderstood, so hopefully those who watch this video will gain a little bit of understanding that wasn't there before. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints I believe in Jesus Christ. He is my Savior. I believe it is my duty to try to be like Him, to follow His commandments and His example, and I believe that going to the Temple helps me accomplish this goal more fully.

Millie wakes up with the craziest hair...

2009-03-15T20:13:00.000-07:00

Cute from the front...

But pretty scary from behind...

Valentine's Day?

2009-02-15T17:39:00.001-08:00

My gift to Joe for Valentine's Day was to allow him to take me shooting. Yeah, like guns. I am completely uncomfortable around them but my husband is of the variety that believes that it is, 1) every American's right to own one and, 2) if more people owned and carried guns fewer crazies would get away with killing mass numbers of people on college campuses, etc. So I did what any good wife would do, forbade him to buy one and when he bought it anyway, I forgave him. (Sigh.)

To Joe's disappointment this was the only picture that I took of him shooting. To be honest, I thought about getting up and walking behind him and taking a few close ups looking down the barrel of the gun or at his target or just more of him shooting the different guns that Steve had, but I was afraid I would distract him and he would accidently shoot me or Steve or Alicia, or himself. Not as a discredit to him, he had great aim and behaved very professionally (no pistol twirling like I imagined) but I was very nervous. I also felt like I should be kind of respectful of something that is capable of taking human life. I didn't want to trivialize it with too many pose pictures.

I am still uncomfortable around guns and I don't understand the whole fascination some men have with them and shooting things. But it made me happy to do something that Joe really wanted to do. There were 5 or 6 times where I wished I had taken a picture of his face and the pure boyish joy and excitement that I saw there. So while I can't understand the source of it this time, I sure do love seeing my husband really happy.

Birthday: Part 2

2009-02-15T17:04:00.000-08:00

In college one of my friends threw a party on Valentine's Day where we watched Pride and Prejudice (A&E 5 hour version), made valentines for whomever we wanted, and ate delicious and beautiful food. I was telling Irene about it about 6 months ago and she said, "I am going to do that for you for your birthday! I wont forget."

She did not forget, and so she threw me my second birthday celebration. I know, I am completely spoiled and I was a little embarrassed driving up to her house, feeling like I am taking advantage of her. But it quickly faded away into complete chocolate + Mr. Darcy induced bliss.

To be honest we did not pay a lot of attention to the movie. We preferred talking about a whole range of topics that cannot be named here due to their extreme girly-ness. But it was awesome background noise and who wouldn't stop to notice this dreamy gaze.
We were just an intimate little group but it was so much fun! (Pay no attention to the large bowl of peanut M&M's directly in front of me...)
Irene, thank you for hosting! The party was perfect, your house was beautiful, the food was delicious- you know me way too well! You are such an amazing friend! I hope I can someday return the favor!

Surprise!

2009-02-08T18:21:00.000-08:00

This year I have unknowingly set myself up to be completely spoiled for my birthday. I must have been talking about it a lot- the big 30 - and how I wanted Joe to throw me an awesome party. Somehow one of my dearest friends, Alicia, got the idea to throw it herself (with a little help from Joe)! She cooked an insane amount of food to make chicken, beef or fish tacos, she invited a ton of people, she put together a slide show, decorated in a tropical theme. It was so fun, so perfect I went through the whole day TODAY with warm fuzzies because I felt so loved. Thank you Alicia- you are truly one of the most thoughtful people I have ever known.

I should also say that it was a joint birthday party for Lauren (Lauren on right, Alicia on left, and no- that is not me in the middle. That is a stranger). These are some fun girls! Happy birthday Lauren!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T14:15:00.000-08:00

This is our Christmas Comic this year. We hope you have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!

Too Many Big Events

2008-12-04T18:34:00.000-08:00

Joe's sister, Gladys, had her fourth baby and second son on Tues. November 18th! Congratulations Gladys and Paul.

My sister Melisa had her second child yesterday- December 3- a little girl! (No picture yet!)

Kira and Evan came to town for two weeks and we were lucky enough to have them staying with us for the first week! It was a great visit! We had a few mornings at home with sick kids. We got to stay in our PJ's and move from inside the house to the backyard and back inside. It might have been a little unadventurous but at least it gave us a lot of quality time to talk. We love and miss you guys so much already! Please come back soon and stay even longer- I promise we will try not get sick next time!
Gladys like a week and a half after having little Blaine. Amazing (and crazy all at the same time) to host Thanksgiving, but it was perfect!
We had so much fun lounging (playing) all over Gladys and Paul's bed. This was a rare moment to have the kids all together facing the same direction.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-26T20:44:00.001-08:00

Food makes us very happy in our house and despite the lingering cough and cold symptoms most of us have, we are very excited to share a holiday feast with the Lowry family tomorrow! Grateful people are happy people. I recently heard that and I believe that it is true. This year we are thankful for our home, cool sunny days, giggles and squeals, strong and healthy bodies, our trampoline, great friends, caring and supportive family near and far, prayer, a loving Heavenly Father who is aware of our needs and struggles, good doctors, the goodness in the world, delicious food, cheap gas, monster trucks, blankets, and cuddling time. I could go on. Truly we are so blessed to have to so much! May you feel thankful this Thanksgiving!

Here ya go (from Joe)

2008-11-05T06:54:00.000-08:00

This is for Irene-ee. I had to write it here because I can't violate the strict regime of my blog- politics, sports, and movie trailers. Here goes.

1. Do you like blue cheese? No. It's fungus.
2. Have you ever smoked heroin? No. Who smokes heroin these days?
3. Do you own a gun? Yessir. Just because I can.
4. Wax or Shave your body parts? Shave. Last I checked I was still a man.
5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? Only the gyno, unless it's a woman.
6. Real or Fake nails? Metal. They stick in the wall better.
7. Favorite Christmas song? Oh Hannukah
8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Skim Milk
9. Can you do push ups? Por supuesto.
10. What is your favorite piece of jewelry? My JEL ring, because it helps me remember my initials.
11. Favorite hobby? Reading
12. Do you have A.D.D? No
13. What's one trait that you hate about yourself? It is not logical to hate
14. Middle name? Edward (yep ladies- like the sexy vampire)
15. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment? What should I say. I need to make a phone call. I can't wait to have a quiet night tonight.
16.Name 3 drinks you regularly drink? Water, Milk, Coke Zero
17. Current worry right now? How bad will taxes get?
18. Current hate right now? The way people spell on facebook
19. Favorite place to be? Anywhere with my family.
20. How did you bring in the New Year? At a neighbors party up until 11:40, then home for the ball drop.
21. Like to go? Eating Out. Movies. Out of Town. Beach. Football.
22. Name three people who will complete this? (?)
23. Do you own slippers? Whaaa?
24. What color shirt are you wearing? Pink (dress shirt)
25. Do you like sleeping on Satin sheets? Have I ever?
26. Can you whistle? Yes, like a champ.
27. Favorite color? BYU blue
28. Would you be a pirate? I would like to hunt pirates.
29. What songs to you sing in the shower? Handel's Messiah
30. Favorite girls name? Millie (maybe Raquel?)
31. Favorite Boys name? Barack (sike!)
32. whats in your pocket right now? Business cards
33. Last thing that made you laugh? When Nancy Pelosi said a more Democratic-controlled Congress would be more bipartisan.
34. Worst injury you've ever had? Broken wrist, freshman year.
35. Do you love where you live? Yes.
36. How many TV's do you have in your house? Two, but I watch TV online on the Mac somtimes.
37. Who is your loudest friend? Millie, especially in Church
38. How many pets do you have? My Smith & Wesson
39. Does someone have a crush on you? Justin
40. What is your favorite book? Atlas Shrugged- go Capitalism!
41. What is your favorite lollie? Cherry Tootsie Roll Pop
42. Favorite sports team? BYU Cougars
43. What were you doing 12am last night? Pondering the election result.
44. What was the first thing you thought of when you woke up? 4:40 AM?!?!
45. Worst habit? I have low confidence and never think that I'm right.
46. Do you play an instrument? I once played tenor sax, and still own it.
47. How long does it take you to get to work? 10 minutes.
48. Plans for the weekend? Not sure.
49.If you could eat anything in the world right this second? Buttermilk Waffles
50. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Yes. I did it for you Irene (and because Lacy told me to).

Fun on the Farm (and with the Waters)

2008-10-27T10:22:00.000-07:00

This is for you Kira

2008-10-24T20:16:00.000-07:00

I like reading these kinds of things but I have never wanted to do one. Until Kira challenged me. Thanks for reading... it's pretty long:

1. Do you like blue cheese? No

2. Have you ever smoked heroin? Argh! No

3. Do you own a gun? No, but Joe bought one without telling me...

4. Wax or Shave your body parts? Shave- although I think this question is too personal for my public blog.

5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? Only certain doctors. I had to get a cavity filled last week- it was pretty wild.

6. Real or Fake nails? Real. I like them short.

7. Favorite Christmas song? Ave Maria and We Three Kings. Magical.

8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Water.

9. Can you do push ups? I haven't tried in quite some time.

10. What is your favorite piece of jewelry? Tough one. I wear my wedding ring everyday so that must be it- although I would pick something totally different if I could(:

11. Favorite hobby? Discovering things with my kids. The other day we spent 20 minutes watching a moth try to escape us. I felt very accomplished that I kept them from killing it.

12. Do you have A.D.D? No

13. What's one trait that you hate about yourself? Self doubt.

14. Middle name? Camilla

15. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment? I need to go to bed... How cute that Joseph is sleeping with his cousins... I wonder what time he will come to my bed...

16.Name 3 drinks you regularly drink? Water, rice milk, and cows milk (with desserts)

17. Current worry right now? Is Joseph watching too much TV?

18. Current hate right now? Societal moral decay.

19. Favorite place to be? San Diego California- isn't it ironic ... looking at my last answer. Well, I am very much a dry climate and sunny wether person AND my family is very important to me.

20. How did you bring in the New Year? I honestly cannot remember... I should wake up Joe and ask him.

21. Like to go? Running, to the beach, and to cute little gift shops and boutiques and stores that carry goods from foreign countries even if I can't buy anything. It makes me feel like I am on vacation.

22. Name three people who will complete this? Nobody - but that's okay.

23. Do you own slippers? No, it is too hot here too much of the year. I have a black cashmere trench coat that I have never worn and I really doubt I will ever wear it. Any offers?

24. What color shirt are you wearing? Grey.

25. Do you like sleeping on Satin sheets? No- cotton sleeps cooler.

26. Can you whistle? Yes, but it is through my top lip and bottom teeth.

27. Favorite color? green and blue mixed.

28. Would you be a pirate? If I were an orphan and a very good pirate who focused on the pirates code...

29. What songs to you sing in the shower? I don't really sing in the shower.

30. Favorite girls name? Camilla

31. Favorite Boys name? Joseph (;

32. whats in your pocket right now? My pajamas don't have pockets.

33. Last thing that made you laugh? Joseph.

34. Worst injury you've ever had? I rolled my ankle playing volleyball in a tournament in High School but still was able to compete in regional finals for track a week later. Seriously, that was amazing to feel so limitless and invincible physically.

35. Do you love where you live? No. I don't think I ever will, unless San Diego falls into the ocean and I no longer have that as an alternative. But I know I am in the right place.

36. How many TV's do you have in your house? Two.

37. Who is your loudest friend? Justin.

38. How many pets do you have? None. I am not a pet person. We took the kids to a pet store so they could be around some animals for once. It felt kind of like going into someone else's church. I would like a salt water tank and some awesome fish but not enough research it, and save up to buy it etc.

39. Does someone have a crush on you? A crush- maybe Joseph. He's pretty obsessed with cuddling with my arms. And Millie for sure. She could be held and loved all day.

40. What is your favorite book? How Green Was My Valley and Follow the River. I haven't read either in years but both were very impactful.

41. What is your favorite lollie? What's a lollie?

42. Favorite sports team? Michael Phelps

43. What were you doing 12am last night? Putting laundry away.

44. What was the first thing you thought of when you woke up? Yeah- it's Joe's turn!

45. Worst habit? Negative thinking

46. Do you play an instrument? No- but I would like to learn- piano, flute, or the guitar.

47. How long does it take you to get to work? I work in my home as a mom, so no time at all.

48. Plans for the weekend? Hang out with Gladys and Paul and their kids.

49.If you could eat anything in the world right this second? I am not hungry.

50. Do you like the person who sent this to you? I love you Kira- and I miss you so much- whether we are opposites or just pretty close to it you really changed my life for the better.

Trip to Cactus Country

2008-10-10T20:27:00.000-07:00

Our trip to Phoenix was a lot of fun! We were able to meet up with so many good friends! Wyatt, son of Nancy and Troy is seen above. He is such a doll and just a mellow as he looks in the picture. Nancy and Troy just happen to be in Phoenix for a wedding and we were able to get together for lunch at the house where we were staying. We feel so lucky that we have been able to meet up with them twice since they moved away from Gainesville.
Jeannette, my sister-in-law, took us to the Zoo. She told me it was her favorite zoo and I have to agree. The San Diego Zoo has that whole "world famous" thing in it's title but it was so much better being able to ride bikes and pull the kids in trailers. It was a completely different experience- no screaming children, no sore feet or swollen ankles- just fun, fun, fun. We were the only ones there doing it but Jeannette assured me that it is allowed and even encouraged- they rent bikes out most days of the week! We were staring at some squirrel monkeys very close to us. Thanks Jeannette- you made our trip to Arizona so much better!

Of course the kids love the carousel. We look pretty hammered. It was hot but I will die telling people that the humidity is so much worse. I love dry air. Love it.
They do this all by themselves- it's really cute.
I was able to meet up with Becky, an old friend from BYU. It was really good to see her- she was beautiful, vibrant, and witty as ever- Thanks for making the drive across the city and taking the time to meet, Becky!
There was a botanical garden and an herb garden outside our hotel that we had a lot of fun exploring. Millie looked very agricultural in her overalls.

We also got to see my old room-mate Cara and her husband. They were a lot of fun! It is great to travel but for me it is the people that make a difference. We spent a lot of time with Ryon and Jeannette and their kids, saw Joe's cousin Jim and their family. It was definitely a trip with a lot of memories.

To Chelsea

2008-09-09T10:57:00.000-07:00

Chelsea- in light of your recent major life change of going off to college (and your comments on my blog posts) I wanted to dedicate this post to you!

Based on my EXPERIENCE I thought I'd give you a few tips! Do with it what you like. I thought if anyone else had any advice for a college freshman this would be a good non-confrontational place to share it!

DON'T:

1. Buy a big bag of powdered sugar doughnuts every saturday and wonder why you are getting fat!

2. Hang out with people that put hot dogs in your interior light fixtures and in your bed.

3. Work at Taco Bell.

4. Allow your roommates to rent embarrassingly rated "R" movies and leave them out for your home teachers to see.

5. Develop a huge crush on a guy that plays guitar and happens to have a serious girlfriend back home.

6. Grow dreadlocks (I didn't actually do this but sometimes it looked like it!!!)

Do:

Well, I'm embarrassed to even say these things because I'm sure you are already doing them. But, get involved, try new things, be open minded, go to church and read your scriptures and pray (must, must, must), please be careful, exercise, eat healthy, keep your eye on your goals but don't be afraid to adjust them to new desires. We love you, we miss you, and we're so proud of you! Come see us soon!

Misc. Pictures

2008-09-08T17:26:00.000-07:00

Here are some more wainscoting pictures- we are very happy with it. I still need to hang something on our dining room wall.

Can a 16 month old be potty trained? Just kidding- she just wanted to do what her brother has been doing.
Joseph started Joy School (preschool out of a friend's home) and LOVES it. It is nice to give Millie more one-on-one time as well.
This girl is so awesome- she definitely holds her own with her brother- she is tough and feisty and so fun. She seems to understand everything we say and of course only obeys when she feels like it. She can be challenging but we wouldn't have her any other way!

Summer Highlights

2008-09-05T21:48:00.000-07:00

This summer I had some amazing and frankly, surreal experiences. (Sorry about the underline, I can't figure out how to get rid of it). I can't find the time to dedicate to each one so I thought I would briefly touch on some of them, all in one post. This is by no means all that happened to us or all of the important people in our lives, but it is a few.

The summer began and ended with a trip to California. The one at the beginning of the summer was with the husband and the kids. The one at the end was without. They were both very rewarding and despite the quickness to the latter trip it was extremely fulfilling. There is too much to say here about my mom and sisters. I really love them.

Saying goodbye to Kira was totally unreal. It was painful and sweet to watch her just be herself and cry herself silly in the line to go through security. I would have waited until nobody was watching, but not Kira. She is always exactly who she is. It is refreshing.
We miss you Kira!

My kids at the beach, and their cousins. So fun and cute and effortless.

Papa Joe seemed to have a lot of fun with the kids at the beach this summer. He is so proud to be attached to these little ones.

Joe finished the wainscoting project that he and Paul started months ago. He finished sanding and painting it and it looks fantastic! What a labor or love! Thanks Joe- you are amazing!

Joseph's Third Birthday was perfect. We were at the beach and he was so happy to have all the attention, balloons and a Cars cake. I can't believe we have a three year old. He really has grown up so fast. Some of his favorite expressions right now, "Are you kidding? That's crazy!" "Can you please stop talking?!" " That is so awesome!" He is very enthusiastic and excited for anything. He is so affectionate and loving with his sister, dad, mom ... everyone, really. We love him so much!

My second trip out to California was for my oldest friend Monica Haynes' wedding. She looked like a queen sitting on a throne during the mass. It was a very special experience to see her and her family and to witness that event. It was also a time to see some other great friends from High School- Katie and Abbey.

Sadness & Hope

2008-08-19T18:20:00.000-07:00

I've been contemplating this post for a few days and I'm not sure how to go about writing it. I guess this time, less is more. Last week the small child of a friend of mine drowned in a pool. It was such shocking and tragic news- my first reaction was to turn off the Olympics and say a prayer. Over the last 9 days since it occurred a lot has happened and little else has occupied my thoughts. I was able to attend the viewing and the funeral and give the family a few words of love and encouragement. My thoughts keep coming back to how grateful I am for a loving Heavenly Father and Savior who provide us with an eternal perspective on life and death. I feel like watching his family cope with Evan's death, and watching their extended family and members of the church support them with pure and true religion, has helped me understand how God can allow such tragedies to occur. I believe that it is His goal to help us all return to live with Him. I truly believe that this little boy's death has inspired Christlike service out of so many people. His parents provide such a strong and stalwart example to those around them. They seem to possess a spiritual "gift" (as one friend put it) of maintaining that eternal perspective. The perspective that this life is but a moment, that Evan is with Heavenly Father and happy, and that they will be reunited with him again. I don't believe that Heavenly Father wanted Evan to die. But I am grateful that if we follow the Savior and believe what He teaches us, be it through the scriptures or the Holy Ghost, we can survive mortal tragedies and come out closer to what Heavenly Father wants us to be.

At the funeral both Evan's mother and father spoke. At the end of his talk his father encouraged all of those present to commit to being better mothers and fathers, friends and neighbors, etc. In parenthood he encouraged us to focus on the blessings of everyday. Instead of being bitter or annoyed that our baby wakes us up at night, just focus on the gratitude that he/she is even there to hold close. Instead of feeling frustrated with a "strong-willed" child, be grateful that he has energy and enthusiasm for life. The list continues of things that go on in my house (at least) that test us. Upon hearing his talk I have felt a new kind of gratitude for the time I have with my children. I find more joy in the mundane tasks of motherhood and I think I have changed a little. I am so grateful for this family and their example of bearing this trial so well. I know their reward will be great in Heaven.

Beachin' Photos

2008-07-21T07:44:00.000-07:00

This is Joe, blogging on Lacy's behalf as she is without computer in beautiful Marco Island, FL. Incidentally, the photo in her header is of a sunset in Marco Island in 2007. Since she can't be on the U.S. West Coast all year, she gets to go to Florida's West Coast for a month. Some photos:

Lacy and Millie in the calm, beautiful, 4th of July waters.
Millie's favorite place to be on the beach- on a chair, eating. She eats all day.
A completely different day, on a chair also, maybe eating.
Definitely eating.

Looking cool...
Storm rolling in...
Beauty after the storm:
Chelsea, Irene, & Walmir (not pictured) came for a visit:

Irene walking off...how artsy a photo Lacy took!

Joseph finished his first real puzzle! He worked on it so quietly, and didn't smile or celebrate until he was finished.
We had a few rainy days last week. We took advantage of a break one morning to take a nice little walk.
Another beautiful afternoon.
Day 1 of my excellent castle. It's being guarded by a crab.
Joseph is a swimming madman. And yes, he is almost jumping right on the stairs. Cool picture, but not something we want to see again.

Sunset on my parents' 33rd anniversary.
Joseph and Millie, tired and happy after a day in the sun.
Mom & Dad- 33 years!
Day 2 of the castle. Notice the two large castle areas, abundance of bridges and portcullis, village with surrounding wall. I was very happy with this. People could be seen stopping to take pictures of and with it. It surived over 3 days. Pretty tough in Florida.

Rotary

2008-06-28T18:43:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday night Joe was installed as his Rotary Club's (the Rotary Club of Downtown Gainesville) new President. It was a very special evening for our little family. Before the formal "installation" we had dinner with the group and Leslie, the previous President shared her thanks for the board that she had worked with through her presidency and handed out various plaques of recognition for those who served. Then she came to her last item to hand out. The "Rotarian of the Year" award was chosen by nominations by club members. Her words were..."We got many nominations. But there was one name that kept popping up... Joe Lowry Jr." I can't tell you how proud I was of Joe at that moment. I knew how dedicated he was to serving Rotary and to serving the community. But it was very special to see that so many other people not even in our circle of family or close friends saw that, too. It was a special moment and if anyone was looking at me they would have seen me beaming with pride. (Joe's mom was standing right behind me and I'm sure she was beaming just as much!) I am usually very private during moments of crisis or celebration- I know that is weird- but I didn't care if everyone saw how happy I was for my husband and how happy I am that HE is mine. He was so humble and sincere when he accepted the award. He remarked that there were others in the group to whom he would have given the award before giving it to himself.

The evening just got better as he was named the new President. He was asked to give a few remarks, and of course he was prepared. I know that every president or anyone in any kind of leadership has their own gifts to offer those they serve. But I really think that Joe has some gifts that are especially suited for good leadership. He is humble yet extremely confident- he is very well spoken and eloquent on his worst day- and of course he is smart and funny, too! Oh and he is great to look at! Anyway, way to go Joe! You are so amazing- I am so proud of you and I promise to try not to be annoyed when you are gone so much due to Rotary this next year! I love you!

The Mother Land

2008-06-21T20:02:00.000-07:00

When I left California for school in Utah and people asked where I was from they often smiled upon hearing my answer and said, "Oh, really ... no one is FROM there." Meaning, they don't usually hear of people growing up there- more likely they fell in love with the place on some fantastic vacation and never went home. For all you skeptics out there (like you Joe) just ask Melisa. She has "many" friends that told her this was how they came to live there. That said, I can't say we would be spending the money on airfare even half as much as we do now if we didn't have such amazing family spread throughout the region. This trip we flew into Palm Springs and out of LAX with visits to my sister's homes and a trip to San Diego to be with my mom sandwiched in between. We couldn't have coaxed more fun out of any second. It was truly great. As always my family was above the mark for fun activity, meaningful conversation and gestures of love and kindness towards our little family and to each other. As a child I felt very proud to be a Frisch, and I still love the name and miss seeing it attached to my first name. Today, I feel it again, very strongly that I am so lucky to be connected to these people.
We started off the festivities with an early Father's Day celebration to celebrate my sweet dad. He is always so much fun to be around and full of hugs and kisses and praises of all kinds. We had a wonderful dinner. Hopefully next time we can see him even more!

Lillie keeps me sane and teaches me so many things just by being that thing. No preaching, just living.

2008-06-02T17:48:00.000-07:00

A Really Weird Occurrence and Mima's Birthday!

2008-05-04T11:17:00.000-07:00

The strangest thing happened to us this week. I was playing with the kids in the backyard until about five o'clock. At that time I brought them in the house to eat. I put Millie in her high chair, gave her some Cherrios and went to the sink to wash out her sippy cup. While at the sink I looked out the window and could not believe my eyes: the trampoline had disappeared from it's corner of the yard. I truly blinked, opened my eyes wider and stretched my neck forward as if that would help me see it. Nothing. I scanned the yard- nope- not in the yard at all- and all of our other toys were strewn about in strange places. Then I noticed the polls from the enclosure sticking up on the other side of the fence. Somehow a wind lifted the trampoline and flipped it over the fence and out of our yard, without doing any damage to the fence or the tree nearby. (Unless it was some punk kids which I have never seen in our neighborhood and who would have had to work extremely fast at five o'clock in the afternoon.) Anyway, very bizarre and sad. We are not sure the extent of the damage. At best we just have to buy one poll for the enclosure which we know is badly damaged, at worst we have to buy a whole new trampoline and enclosure which Joe assures me will not be any time soon! Argh! We loved that thing!

This weekend we also had the pleasure of celebrating Mima's 60th Birthday! We spent Friday night attending a Rotary Dinner and auction at the Sweetwater Inn and eating delicious cake, and Saturday sharing sandwiches and salads from the Flour Pot. She is so much fun and does such a good job at keeping her family together. We love you Mima!

Millie's First Birthday!!!

2008-04-27T17:17:00.000-07:00

I went for it and posted a lot of pictures so beware! Really it was so fun, even for the host and hostess. It was such a delight to have great friends and family members here to make this occasion such a special and memorable one and I guess more than anything I have learned two things: First that I wish we had done this for Joseph's first birthday. And second, there is nothing wrong with throwing a party for a baby that wont remember it. She had a a blast and so did we. We will remember and show her the pictures!

When I went to BYU one of my roommates taught me an important lesson. I was bummed out and overwhelmed with LIFE as I knew it (fighting to make the grade and make money etc.) Debbie chuckled as if to say, Silly Lacy- and then said, "Stress and grades and multiple jobs- that is not your life. Your LIFE is the relationships that you form while you are here. Those other things just help make it possible to maintain those relationships." So much wisdom from a then 20 year old girl. And it is so true. It is so easy to get caught up in those other things but what really matters and what really brings us joy in life are our relationships, and the love we share with others. As a mom I was so grateful to have such a fun event to share with my kids, friends and family. Not all of my favorite people could be here but I am so grateful that so many of you could.
The hats were so fun- and we actually wore them! They were a lot of work but well worth it.
The cupcakes were a hit! I doubled the recipe but I should have tripled it! I know I could have eaten more and I am always worrying that my guests don't get enough to eat! Can food be a love language?
I made some flag banners as well, which I loved. If I make them again I will use more double sided tape to keep them from sliding into each other.
Millie had SO MUCH fun in the water and on the trampoline!
So much that she (and I) did not realize that she was hungry. When I picked her up to bring her inside to get ready for the cupcakes she grabbed my sandwich and began devouring it! Turkey, swiss, lettuce, tomato and mustard. My little one year old eating her first turkey sandwich!
She ate her whole cupcake! It was so cute!
This is our great friend and "nanny" Chelsea. Too bad for us she plans to become a surgeon and is off to college this fall. What will we do without you?
Mima modeling the beloved party hats! I think Joseph is on his second cupcake- he was so good and had so much fun with his cousins and best buds.
Some of the guys- yes that is Joe with the beard and I love it! He keeps saying he's going to shave it though.
Most of the girls/moms. It would have been fun to get a group shot but with 13 kids running wet and wild that was pretty much impossible!

Millie loved climbing all over her presents and even opened one all by herself!
Adorable dress times three! Three different friends thought of Millie when they saw this dress and gave it to us! We just might keep all three!
Millie got to wear a new dress to church today and Joseph is looking as handsome as ever!
My little one year old! Where did the year go! I'm happy and sad to see my little girl growing up, and just so grateful that Heavenly Father sent her to our family!

Progress- I think.

2008-04-22T21:05:00.000-07:00

Okay- one more detail to add ( and a few more hats to make!). Overall, a good experience BUT it is kind of an absurd amount of work for such a fragile little thing. Oh well!

Because it's the journey that counts.. right?

2008-04-21T14:35:00.000-07:00

I am planning a fun little party for Millie's big 1st birthday. I was slightly ambitious prior to entering Michael's due to a talk I had with my sister as I sat in my car. She assured me my ideas were good but that if I got the nerve I should do something cute and creative with stripes or polka dots... So here I am.. trying to follow a Martha Stewart: Crafts brochure. Hopefully by Saturday my hats will look more like Martha's. In the meantime I'm sure Joe will continue to urge me to "just go buy some decorations!"

Joseph at 2 Years and 9 months

2008-04-13T19:05:00.000-07:00

My little boy is growing up. We have seen this change in him lately and maybe some of you have seen it, too. He has this renewed confidence and assurance in himself that probably has something to do with increasing ability to understand and be understood. He is just as energetic as always but is a little easier to reason with and convince why we can't do/have/eat something right now. Instead of screaming and flipping out when he doesn't get his way, he will sometimes look at me and giggle like he knows he was pushing it. Don't get me wrong he still does some of the flipping out but I can see that he is learning and that is progress. He loves to cuddle and give and receive physical affection and he sings his ABC's everywhere we go as loud as he can (Yeah, he's moved on from "Bah, Bah, Black Sheep" but I believe it is the same notes). We are still working on the volume thing! He has started eating more fruits and veggies again and that is a huge relief. AND he plays very well on his own. He loves to run around the trampoline and pretends to shoot something out of his hands and I hear his pretend scenarios that he sets up with whatever he has in front of him (a wash cloth, for example). He loves cuddling with Millie in our rocker in her room after she gets up in the morning or from a nap. He is such an inspiring little guy and has adjusted brilliantly to having a younger sibling. I love you Joseph!

Pictures

2008-04-12T11:42:00.000-07:00

Hmm...

2008-04-12T09:09:00.000-07:00

We fill our days with story time at the library, trips to the park and the museum, errands, play dates, play groups, crafts, books, toys, backyard fun with the trampoline and the kiddy pool and the bikes. But somehow, as a mother, so much of our time is isolated from everyone and everything else... There must be something to learn from that- maybe that helps to forge the incredibly strong bond between mother and child- just a complete reliance on each other for company and laughter and fun. Or maybe it is to learn how to prioritize because a little child makes it known that they must be top priority. In any case, being Joseph and Millie's mom is by far the most difficult, most fun and coolest thing that I have ever done. I am so grateful for them and Joe too, of course!

(P.S. Thanks to Alicia for the awesome photos and to Alicia and Kira for a very fun day in Cedar Key!)

This one's for you Ross

2008-03-17T20:13:00.000-07:00

Last night we returned from our long awaited trip to Canada. In reality over a year of planning is not that long but it seemed much longer due to the excitement over the trip! We traveled from Orlando Florida to Calgary and then Golden Canada to enjoy 3 fun filled days skiing and 3 more doing more crazy freezing weather activities. I already said skiing, falling, eating, hot tubbing, tramping in the snow with the kids, laughing, playing games, calming screaming children, ice fishing, running from the snow, roman candle warring, quading, playing with dogs and horses and looking at mountains. Needless to say, it was amazing and we are so grateful that we were exposed to so many new and truly breathtaking things (thanks Justin and Kira!). In the face of "man-cations" everywhere I say it can be done and with far more meaning, love, and enjoyment when you do it with the one's that matter most... Not without tantrums, blowouts, and bickering- but it can be done. More Canada posts to come!

(Picture: We were standing on a frozen lake, Lake Louise about 3 hours west of Calgary. It was beautiful and terrifying to be in such extreme cold that the lake freezes easily 3 feet thick. Irene and Walmir were first to take their very glamorous kissing picture and then Justin and Kira a very clear contender for "sexiest ice kiss". With Millie in the bjorn and Joseph in the background we can't really compete but we sure love our little family!)

A Good Day

2008-02-27T19:28:00.000-08:00

We woke up. Ate breakfast. Did some chores. Went to the park. Took naps. Worked on my calling and made a hair appointment. Answered some email. Made some phones calls. Cooked the chicken for fajitas for dinner. Did more chores. Played with Joseph. Learned about farm animals. Played the ukulele. Went for a walk to collect rocks. Learned about farm animals again and matching and taping and sticking to the wall. More dinner prep and help from Joseph. Daddy came home. Went to the gym. Kids sweetly off to bed. Daddy to gym. Dinner. Watched American Idol. A great day.

Something I am learning about myself as a mother is that I need stuff. Toys, workbooks, props... help at entertaining and teaching my children. A month or so ago a friend (thanks Lauren) recommended the Brighter Vision Learning Adventures as a good resource for "teaching" small children. I looked it up and requested a trial packet to see if it would help get the wheels turning in his head. (Not that he needs help thinking or learning, he is very bright. Just that he is happier with a task or project- something that engages him. Adults are the same- you get the picture.) Some moms I see and compare myself to seem to have a hang on creating games, projects, and crafts for their kids. They print off pictures, color and laminate them and viola... a quiet book for church! Can't I just buy one of those?! Don't get me wrong, I do see the value in creating something with your own hands but when do these moms have time to do it all? No, what I need right now is the good old fashioned dollar so I can buy what somebody else has put in so much time to create. I have strayed... So anyway, today after nap-time we opened our trial packet. The theme was Farm Animals and even though he already knows all his barnyard animals and their noises there were some fun activities that gave him a chance to practice fine motor skills like putting together puzzle pieces and placing stickers in a very precise spot. He seemed to really enjoy it and what might be even more important is that I enjoyed it. I felt like a good mother trying her best to teach. My mind was engaged with the little tasks that I had to do like cutting things out and asking him questions about simple barnyard scenes. The energy and excitement in our toy room was so much higher than other days when I sit on the floor and take hold of some toys with great intentions, but find myself nodding off and wishing that I could go and do all the chores waiting to be done. Obviously Brighter Vision is not going to solve all of my problems but, for now, it seems to be just what my little guy needs. That said, if any one is reading and has other suggestions for materials that would help to teach and entertain a 2 1/2 year old let me know.

(Baby Evan did not want to pose for his picture or bend at the hips for that matter.)

Forever Family

2008-02-22T08:21:00.000-08:00

I am sure most of you know how hard it is to get a picture with the whole family dressed and looking semi-decent. Well, Joseph's sweaty hair notwithstanding, this is it for us! Every year I have a hard time with the Christmas card/picture because I want it to be perfect but it never is. So, this photo was taken at the beginning of February when we were at the Temple for Justin and Kira's sealing to their adopted baby boy Evan. It was a beautiful sealing as most are but was especially sweet due to the very real display of love between Justin and Kira and Evan, Kira's parents and Kira, Justin and Kira and the birth grandmother, and the birth grandmother and baby Evan. The relationship between J and K and the birth mother has been so astounding and impressive. I have not known another couple to adopt so I am not sure what the "norm" is. But I suspect that most people do not pursue much of a relationship with the birthmother of their baby. J and K have been the opposite. If they are ever in her neighborhood on the way to play in a fresh water spring they will call her and invite her to come and see Evan. They overlap activities in the church so she can see Evan, they correspond by email and phone calls and highly value their relationship with her. Recently they purchased and new car and GAVE her their old one. It is so amazing to me because it is such a pure Christlike thing to do. I feel like I've seen the gospel come full circle and so many lives have been blessed by people seeking the guidance of the spirit and then following it. That said, I am pretty sure the birth mother never intended to get pregnant and give the baby up for adoption- BUT the fact that once that occurred she was strong and decisive in her choice to give the baby to a family that could provide her with a loving and safe environment with a mother and father and the gospel of Jesus Christ. I am so grateful for the Temple and the blessings that we receive from going there.

Our Own Little August Rush

2008-02-05T12:23:00.001-08:00

If you haven't seen the movie- DON'T. It is not even worth renting in my opinion... Joseph was given a Ukulele for Christmas by Joe's mom. He loves to "play" his "guitar-zukie". And I'll admit that I like plucking at it as well. Maybe it has something to do with never reaching the dream of learning to play the guitar. I know, I know, it is never too late. Maybe Joseph and I can learn together.

Disney Half Marathon

2008-01-13T16:19:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was able to run in the Disney Half Marathon. It was so fun and exciting to be a part of something so huge. Seeing so many people with the same goal is really motivating. I saw all different types of people. Chubby, thin, short, tall, old, young. People running for a cause or in memory of a person or loved one. Many people walked, some ran extremely fast. I achieved my goal of running/jogging the whole time without walking. For me that was enough. It was thrilling to set my mind to doing it and then not letting any ache or pain or swelling to get in my way! I don't think I have felt that good about myself since the birth of either one of my children. I'm not ready to say that I want to do it again but never say never. My next goal is the Disney mini-Triathlon!

It was really fun to be able to start the race with these two lovely ladies. Irene and Kira made the experience all the more exciting as we waited for our turn to cross the starting line and get moving. With 16,000 people running not everyone is able to start moving at the official "start" time. So we waited like cattle in a corral and moseyed forward every once in awhile. But of course with Irene's anxious tummy and Kira's rocking out to the music I had plenty of entertainment!

From mile 6 on I just focused on seeing Joe and my kids faces, either on the sidelines or at the finish. I knew it would feel so good to see them and kiss them. I am so glad that they could come and cheer me on!

I trained for the half marathon with a group in town. Corrine (left) was our team manager and Emily on the right was another first timer. I did not expect to meet people with so much dedication, commitment, and fun and easy personalities.

California

2007-12-04T20:21:00.001-08:00

Our recent trip to California was a major success. We were able to reconnect with a lot of my family that I don't get to see very often. Every time I visit my grandparents or parents or siblings for that matter, I am reminded a little more of who I am. Perhaps because seeing them makes me think of who I was when they knew me better. I am really not that different than I was so many years ago- maybe just focusing on different strengths in order to do my job as a wife and mother.

Halloween

2007-12-03T11:19:00.001-08:00

Nap Time

2007-10-30T10:01:00.000-07:00

For about three months I have been putting Joseph down for his naps in his high chair. I give him his lunch and turn on some soft music and then I leave the room. Anywhere from 5 minutes to a half hour does the trick. It all started when he moved to a big boy bed and realized he didn't HAVE to do anything. So rather than listening to him scream and kick the door for an hour or an hour and a half I just trick him into relaxation then move him to his bed. The method has some major flaws like if Daddy comes home for lunch and walks into the kitchen just as he is dozing off, or if he is not hungry at nap time and will not get into his high chair happily, or if he is in possession of anything that could be a toy, or if I unthinkingly give him a popsicle- sugar high, or if he just does not want to fall asleep for some strange reason, not to mention the fact that I have to stay out of sight and sound for the time it takes for him to fall asleep. Like I said, the method has some MAJOR FLAWS and I can't imagine that it will last much longer but can you blame me for trying?

New Look

2007-10-28T11:49:00.000-07:00

Well, after three years of growing it out I decided to cut my hair again. And I am very glad I did. The truth is, it is always more work when it is short because I don't have the option of just pulling it back in a pony tail after the shower. But, at least when I do take the time to do it I am happy with it. It is fun to have a new look!

We had Joe's nieces and nephew here for most of the day on friday and that was a lot of fun. Joe came home from work around 2 to help out. We had a great time pretending what it would be like to have five children all very close in age. We decorated pumpkins and played in the backyard. The weather was a little cool and overcast so it was perfect! Hooray!

The Heat Goes On

2007-10-22T14:21:00.000-07:00

This morning I met up with a group of girls from church and their fun kids to visit a pumpkin patch not too far from here. It was a very nice little place with white canopies set up as shelter from the sun. Yes, in this part of the country even late October will find you drenched in sweat as you walk slowly around some pumpkins. Joseph ran and I watched and made sure he did not get into any trouble. There was a pretty red tractor that took us on a hayride. We wound through the property, and the various palms as we waited for the driver to pick up enough speed to give us a little bit of a breeze and dry our sweaty faces. After the hayride we made our way to the story reading tent as more sweat poured in the shade and shelter. The story book reader did her best to ignore Joseph as he climbed all over her various assortment of pumpkins serving as visual aids. Then off to the coloring tent. Joseph and I had a good time as we colored a scarecrow green and orange. Just as the humidity dropped a little and the breeze picked up my children gave me the signal that they were hungry and ready to go. Alas, our damp clothes would have to dry in the airconditioned mini-van. Every year this is the time that the humidity just kills me. At times the air is so thick it lookes like it is drizzling but it is not. When it should be cooling off and SOME parts of SOME days feel like they are, when the rest of the country is happily pulling out their long sleeves and maybe even a sweater, when the evening air should feel crisp and cool, when the pools are closed and there is truly no relief, the heat goes on. I live in a swamp. Some days it cools and the air lightens, most days it is only for a moment and then back to what it wants to be. Swamp-like. I'm sorry but it's true. Some girls love the swamp. Their skin glistens and the hair remains silky and smooth. They love the heat and that it gives them the chance to show off their beautiful long limbs. Honestly, it makes me feel soggy, and frizzy, and completely miserable. I think that if I can overcome this challenge in my life (it sounds so stupid to say it is a "challenge in my life" but it IS!) I will be able to get over anything. How does someone who loves to be outdoors and do out of doors things live in a place that can best be enjoyed through a closed window?

My Inspiration

2007-10-11T11:26:00.001-07:00

At this point in my life I would have to say my children are my inspiration and motivation in most things. With a face like this how could he not be? Joseph loves to borrow my head bands, he calls them hats. One morning he woke up as I was on my way out the door to the gym. He came out of his room like this, not necessarily making the funny face. He has also recently taken a liking to cuddly puppy dogs. He wants to take one where ever we go. Luckily, he has three of them so I can usually find one pretty quickly. His favorite things to say lately: "I can not believe it!" (from Little Einsteins), "What are we gonna do, mommy, what are we going to do!" (I'm not sure where he got that one). He has just developed this really sweet cadence to the way he asks for things, we cannot help but want to give him whatever he is asking for. I think that stems from the fact that as his language developes he gains confidence in his ability to ask for and get what he wants. Duh. Pretty obvious but cool for me to see in my own son.

Surprise!

2007-09-27T13:47:00.000-07:00

The other day I put my daughter down for a nap with a little dress on and no bloomers. She had a diaper on when I left her room, but when I came back to check on her and make sure she was asleep this is what I found. I covered her up with a blanket and let her sleep blissfully with no diaper, which I'm sure she enjoyed. She looked very happy when her nap was over.

Haircut

2007-09-23T18:25:00.000-07:00

So the order of my photos came out a little funny but I thought I would document the much needed haircut of my son. I was far more worried about it than I needed to be. Never underestimate the power of a Dum Dum. After a huge meltdown as I was getting him out of the car and trying to take away his bat and ball he was completely intrigued by this green sucker that kept getting hair dropped on it. AND, much to my surprise he seems happier with shorter hair, he looks great and I don't have to feel as guilty when I don't have time to brush it. I should say that the whole decision to cut his hair was made thursday morning. I had to go to the doctor for a tetanus shot and took the kids. Joseph was wearing some green cargo shorts and a t-shirt that I thought would match but didn't end up matching. Once I got on the road I realized I had forgotten his shoes. Thank goodness we have a habit of leaving his church shoes in the car. So black leather, velcro boots with black socks. And to top it off his hair was insane that morning. People were nice and still said he was fun and cute, yada, yada, yada but I felt bad that he wasn't looking his best. So, that afternoon I went to get his hair cut. You know the rest.

Fun

2007-09-20T09:23:00.001-07:00

We had Joseph's friend Hunter over to play. They have spent time together ever since they were born but are just now starting to interact. They are so fun. Of course Joseph tried to take control of Hunter's breakfast but he would give it back very nicely every time he was reminded.

Lately everyone has been saying that Millie looks like her dad. It is so cute to see them together. I don't totally see the resemblance, except for maybe the face shape. I don't really think she looks like me either.This particular day we played soccer in our back yard while it was misting on us so we were thoroughly soggy. It is time for another hair cut. He is starting to complain about it. "My hair!" he shouts as he swipes it away from his eye brows. I guess that is my cue.

Saturday

2007-09-01T12:37:00.000-07:00

On this stormy Saturday I just wanted to post a few pictures of the kids. They are so much fun.

Busy Weekend

2007-08-27T11:27:00.001-07:00

The coolest kids ever.

Something you will never see again in your life.

This weekend we had two events to participate in. Friday night we held a party for some of our best friends, Justin and Kira, and their new little son Evan. They recently adopted this beautiful boy and we wanted to give him the welcome that he deserves. Irene (red shirt) and I had a great time planning the dinner menu and cooking for the party. These pictures show some of the highlights. It was a lot of fun. Joe's brother Chris is back in town and in the large group shot around the table- we love you Chris.
Saturday night we attended Joe's 10 year High School Reunion. It gave me a hint as to what I missed out on at my 10 year reunion this past summer. I'm sure I would have enjoyed my own reunion much more but it was fun to get out with Joe.

My goal to get back in shape is going well. Last week I got 5 out of 6 of my planned workouts in. This week I hope to do all 6. Seminary is going well for Joe. Everyday there seems to be more and more participation.

Try, Try Again

2007-08-20T03:36:00.000-07:00

Joe and I stumbled across this old picture of what we used to look like! Boy, were we hot. So anyway- this post is dedicated to our right and ability to change some major habits and try to get back what appears to be long gone in the way of fitness. We are really excited for Joe to teach seminary and I know it will help both of us make better use of our time and make sure to fit exercise in there somewhere. We both got up at 4:45 this morning so that I could go to the gym and Joe could get ready for seminary. It felt so good to start my day so early - before my kids were awake and needing my attention. So, help me remember this enthusiasm when a few weeks from now (maybe a few days) my feelings might have changed alittle. I can do it!!!

Firsts

2007-08-18T06:45:00.000-07:00

This week was full of firsts. Joseph's first bath with his apple, first time on his toy quad naked, and Millie's first time in the Baby Einstein's play center. Not pictured, it was also the first time we have gated Joseph's door to teach him to sleep in his room at night. For some reason that was more bearable than locking him in. It is still sad to lock the gate on him and hear him cy but every night he cries less and less and wakes up less. He seems happier the next day due to his getting better sleep. So, while it seems like a very cruel and heartless thing to our two year old I know it is the right thing. Especially because Joe is teaching seminary this year and will be starting on monday (another first) and so we will be short on sleep. Thank goodness Millie is a good sleeper. She rolls to her tummy and sucks her thumb and goes like 10 to 12 hours regularly. Such a blessing.

Happy Birthday Joe!

2007-08-04T22:54:00.000-07:00

Today, (August 5th) is Joe's 28th birthday and I wanted to share that he is such a wonderful husband and father. Most of you know he is very bright. I have always been amazed at his ability to read about politics or current events and put it in context of our lives. You all know he is very funny and eloquent and good with his words. You all know he has a very high standard for what is loyal and he lives up to this standard. He makes very good friends with people and maintains his friendships very well. A few things you might not know...

You probably don't know that he gets up every night with our 2 year old son so that I can get my rest to take care of our three month old baby. He is tender and caring despite his natural ability to be the disciplinarian in the family. His tenderness, interest and involvement with the kids increases daily. When he is home he splits the tasks of parenting evenly with me. I am embarrassed to admit that he cooks more than I do lately and his meals are just as tasty as mine! He deals with my natural ability for correcting him(!) very well and continues to love and support me despite my weaknesses, which are not few. He treats me like I am the neatest person he has ever known. He works so hard to keep our little family happy and humming along. He makes it a priority to take me to California to visit my family at least twice a year and never makes me feel like it is a burden. He loves my family almost as much as I do. I love him so much!

With the help of my sister Lillie I have created a little slideshow of our lives together. If you are in the mood have a look. I apologize to those of you who prefer a post that is less personal. I'm not really good at impersonal.

As usual, click play twice.

Family Vacations

2007-08-02T20:20:00.000-07:00

Joseph as an Artist

2007-08-02T11:03:00.000-07:00

Last night Joe and I were reviewing our photos from our trip to the beach and we discovered that Joseph had exercised some creativity and snapped more than a few photos himself. We estimate 60 or 70. Wow. So with some liberal editing we find he has some talent. It is really fun getting to see the world from his perspective.

The Beach

2007-07-17T17:52:00.000-07:00

First of all, I'm sorry that I didn't flip this picture before posting it. At this point I've just got to keep going or I'll never finish this post. Millie is really growing up and she is such an angel baby. She is cooing a lot lately and is on a pretty good schedule- provided we have our swing handy. She has pretty cushy life here at the beach- we don't make her spend too much time in the sun and she has Mima and Papa here to pay attention to her adorableness.

Gladys and Paul and their kids were here all together the first week of July and then Paul had to go to work. Gladys and the kids stayed another week and Joseph was in heaven with his counsins just one floor down and ready to play.

Our condo has views of the sun rise. It is beautiful to have the option of watching.

Joe has been growing out his beard and I am always astounded at all the red and blond in it. I rather like the look. It has been so fun to spend so much time as a family on this vacation- even if we have to split up in order to meet the needs of both children.

This the sunset as seen from Gladys and Joe Sr.'s condo. We do not see many of these but they are beautiful when we do.

Joe's cuban grandmother Abuelita is so sweet and genuinely loves to meet the new additions to the family. We took a day trip to let her meet Millie. We think she was over stimulated at this point.

This is a beautiful new building that just went up next to our condo. How cool to have a view of a brand new building. It is fun to watch the roofers do their thing every morning.

The beach is just amazing- so wide and long and not densely populated in the least. The color of the water depends on the sun and the clouds. The water looked very turquoise this day due the dark grey clouds. There was a storm on the horizon.

This is also a view from our condo- as you can see South Florida is very flat.

Every time Millie is awake Joseph is begging to hold her and hug her. It only lasts a second but it is very sweet. The following are some pictures of Joseph with his cousins Michelle and Nicole and Jackie.

We have been staying in Marco Island, Florida now for over two weeks and are thoroughly enjoying it. We will be here the entire month of July and I can't believe how lucky we are. This is the type of place that inspires writing or creating of some sort. This week while Joe is working I have been enjoying the views even though I can't go down to the pool or the beach as much. Lillie and Ross and Sophia will be here in three days and we are so excited!!!

Sweet Things

2007-05-20T16:15:00.000-07:00

This picture is not the most flattering of my son and it does not reflect my diligent efforts as a mother, but I thought it was hilarious to see how out of control I had let his side burns get.

Millie is so sweet. She sleeps on us very well and seems to really enjoy the closeness.

It has been so fun to see Joe grow into his role as father to both boy and girl. It really makes me love him even more.

This picture is what I really wanted to write about in my post. Saturday morning we had an appointment with a friend for a photo shoot for Millie's birth announcements. The whole family was invited so we could be in different pictures with Millie. Joe had committed to help a family move so he was out of the house and for the first time I had to get myself and my two kids ready to go somewhere AND look good enough to be in pictures. While Joseph ate breakfast I cleaned and packed diaper bags and then I needed to buy some time for a shower. At that moment he started pleading for the salt shaker. I thought, "What harm can be done? He'll be happy with the salt shaker in his high chair for a few minutes while I get my shower." When I came back he had completely emptied the salt onto his tray and because he had been sampling it as he went his lips were completely puckered the way they do when you have been swimming in the ocean for way too long. It was hilarious.

Happy Mother's Day

2007-05-13T10:35:00.000-07:00

I love being a mother. Recently I had my second child, Millie. She is just over two weeks old and is an absolute angel. She has long slender fingers, long slender feet, blue eyes, a sweet little rosebud mouth, a perfect little chin and nose. She was born with thick dark hair (which I am sure she is already losing) and chubby cheeks. It has been so fun to be a mother to both a little boy and a sweet baby girl. Despite the angelic nature of my daughter and the amazing energy and exuberance of my son I have days of less than perfect warm fuzzy feelings. I know it is all part of life- we have to take the good with the bad. After over two weeks of staying home with the babies and trying to find fullfillment in nursing every 2 hours, 1 hour, or every hour and a half, and squeezing in a load of laundry or a sink full of dishes or letting my son work out some energy jumping on the bed, yesterday I was feeling a little bit not like myself. I am sure my hormones are trying to work themselves out as well, and after spending half the morning crying at any silly thing my husband sent me shopping. I only had two hours to make my mood right but somehow it was enough. The mall was incredibly busy with what seemed like every family in town. The thought occured to me that for mother's day most moms would probably not mind taking the whole family shopping if dad comes along. I was there alone and I appreciated that fact as I tried on gobs and gobs of clothing that still does not fit this body. But seeing other families out and about trying to keep all it's members happy made me miss my little family and even the craziness that they inspire. The other night I was up with Millie and trying to help her go back to sleep despite her tummy ache. I had been feeling tired and grumpy and frustrated that we were having such a rough night. I looked out our window and saw the moon in the sky and for some reason it brought peace to my heart and all I felt was gratitude to a Heavenly Father who would give me this child, even a child who would keep me up at night. I was grateful. Within minutes Millie had worked up her tummy ache and was fast asleep in my arms. I guess what I am trying to say is I am learning that motherhood is wonderful and beautiful and can drive you absolutely insane. During the insane moments it is good to remind myself , "Look you are doing it! You are doing it well! Keep going- keep working- they are turning out okay!"
On this Mother's Day I am extremely grateful to be a mom. When I came home from shopping yesterday all I wanted to do was sit on the couch and nurse my baby as my son ran around the room and jumped from the couch to the floor. I felt real happiness as I looked around and realized that these were my children and that this was my life. What greater Mother's Day gift could I receive? So to all you mothers out there- look you are doing it- you are doing it well- keep it up!

Spreading the Love

2007-05-09T10:20:00.000-07:00

This post is dedicated to Lillie Kelani Biesinger- my little sister and the motivator behind my blog (among other things), as today is her 26th birthday. She has done such an amazing job at spreading love to so many people both through her birthday dedications and her frequent posts, I thought it only fair to dedicate this post to her. Lillie, I'm just going to write directly to you because you are probably the only one who still checks to see if I'm writing.

You are full of life and vibrance that only gets brighter with age. Most people who know you look up to you and I think it is because of your insistence on ignoring the negative and focusing on the positive. You say you have a problem with negativity but the reality is that you let it slide off your back a lot easier and, viola, you are happy and positive again. It really is an attractive trait. You are fun and vivacious and you have always been "the funny and clever one". You are one of those people who really could do anything that you put your mind to and deep down inside you know that this is true. You have always let me feel like I was taking care of you as your big sister but in reality you have carried me through my frequent emotional breakdowns. Your slight deficiencies only make you more endering (like sharing a room with you in college and not being able to step inside without wading through piles of clothes, dirty and clean). I can't remember a time when you didn't think you were fat while simultaneously knowing how beautiful you really are. Growing up with you I appreciated our differences but I was always flattered when people got us confused as the same person. I have loved going through adult life with you thus far, even though it is across country. You help me laugh at my mistakes and minor crises but you also know just how to acknowledge my feelings.

Gosh, this is hard to do. You've earned even more respect as these kinds of posts are not easy to write. Anyway, I love you Lil. I don't think I could ask for a better friend. I hope you had a wonderful birthday- and good luck with pregnancy number two.

Joseph

2007-03-24T18:29:00.000-07:00

Joe made these two little videos of Joseph and I thought I'ld share how much fun we have with him. He is "talking" all the time now and even has quite a few words. This week he learned to say "reach" and "more" which sounds more like "my". We've been working on "more" for quite some time because as a mother it sure simplifies things when they can ask for more food, milk, etc.

We are officially moving into our new house on friday but all week we will be going back and forth taking things over that should not wait until friday. So it is a very fun week for us. Joseph is so excited to have a yard as am I. It is also nice to be on one story and not have to worry about the hazards of stairs or only working on one floor at a time. It is very different to work throughout the whole house and let Joseph just tag along behind where ever I go.

This baby is due in 4 weeks and I cannot wait. I will welcome it whenever I happen to go into labor. Joe and I have been reviewing a book I bought and followed on natural childbirth when I had Joseph. It's a little bit like trying to watch A Baby Story on TLC. It doesn't quite have the same charm as it did before I had ever had a child. Now I really cannot watch another woman go through labor. I just can't do it. I know exactly how it feels and I don't need to relive it again until I am having another child. That said, I still have the same game plan. It all went extremely well and I am hoping to have the same "luck" the second time around.

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Sleep Deprivation

2007-03-09T19:48:00.000-08:00

It's funny how no matter how tired I am at 4:30 in the afternoon I will never go to bed early like I swear I am going to. This past week was especially difficult with Joseph's ongoing sleep issues. (I think I hear him waking up now). We had maybe six good months of easy to bed and easy to go back to bed if he ever woke up. But the past few weeks it seems he has returned to old habits. A major problem seems to be that he inherited his fathers' (1) poor drainage in his ears and (2) allergies to common pollens, etc. So, every time he gets a cold or has congestion due to allergies he also gets a roaring ear infection. Today I took Joseph to the doctor and found out that we are currently on his 8th ear infection in a year. According to Joseph's pediatrician that qualifies him for tubes in the ears. Even after everything he went through as a newborn I still have reservations about him being "put under" in order to complete this simple proceedure. My one comfort is knowing that once he has the tubes his incidence of ear infections should greatly reduce and therefore, I will not have to face the dilema of whether or not to give him yet another antibiotic. Is it really necessary to put him on antibiotics? Will it clear up on it's own? Shouldn't the body have natural deffenses to combat infection, so aren't we doing it a disservice by interfering? Does any other mother out there have these feelings when they are told to put their child on an antibiotic? When I express these doubts some people look at me like I am an idiot to question what my doctor says and there are a very few who say "yes, it is a complicated issue. Let's talk." And then there is that lonely soul who says, "No- don't give antibiotics ever, just use natural remedies. Oh, and don't vaccinate either." Sometimes I think life would be easier if I didn't question or think critically about my own medical care or that of my child. But, that's just not me. To set the record straight I always end up giving Joseph the antibiotic mostly out of fear that he wont get better and will experience more pain than is fair for a 19 month old. And because this affects my sleep and sanity so directly.

Lots of fun and a little stress

2007-03-04T11:29:00.000-08:00

(First I'ld like to explain the photos: The first one is of the little baby girl clothes I recieved at my baby shower. Then there are a few of a recent trip Joe and I took to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Beautiful place, although I am looking very pregnant. Then you see Joseph with his little cousins Michelle and Nicole and one from my shower.)

This is a really fun time for our family! First we are preparing for a new baby girl! Second, we are getting close to moving into our new home that has been in the works since August. I think anyone that knows me could agree that I welcome change wholeheartedly but when it comes time to carry out the change I can get a little stressed out. I think it's very natural. It would be very strange if these two large events did not cause me some degree of stress. So, as a result most of my life right now revolves around picking out new stuff for the baby room, making visits to the new house to make sure everything is turning out as planned, compromising with Joe on money management decisions and, of course, taking Joseph to the park to work out his toddler energy.

Last night a great friend of mine threw me a baby shower. She kept it simple and focused on what I love- chocolate! There were chocolate chip cookies, chocolate fondue, brownies, and even a pretty pink peep centerpiece. She had informed everyone that my needs for the new little girl included, but were not limited to, adorable little dresses. So I am very greatful to have recieved a whole closet full of them. Nancy also created a very relaxed and comfortable setting for many of my sweet girlfriends to sit around and chat. With little children it is often difficult to find time to talk to girlfriends, or at least to finish a conversation. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect evening to celebrate this pregnancy.

Joseph

2007-03-01T05:52:00.000-08:00

My husband Joe put these videos together in the past year. This is our son Joseph. I thought it would be a nice way to start.

At 19 months

At 18 months

At 13 months