{trick-or-treat}

There were so many things we wanted to do yesterday, and I think we managed to fit almost all of them in! The day started out perfectly, when Rick was able to take the day off and spend it with us.

We sent Ryan off to school with his costume packed and ready to go, and then we got the girls dressed in their costumes. The library was having their annual Halloween Parade and festivities that morning, and it was our first stop of the day.

The parade!

Of course there are treats...doughnuts and milk.

Any time they can color, it's a great day!

That afternoon we headed to the school, to watch Ryan in the parade there. We stood in the gym, and cheered everyone on as they made their way through the parade route. He dressed up as a doctor, and felt very official with the borrowed medical name tag, stethescope, and lab coat. I thought he was adorable, of course, but had to tell him that he looked "cool". :)

We left Ryan at school to finish up the last part of the day, and we headed to pick up some pizza for an early dinner. We usually eat around 5pm, and so even though we would be eating later, we needed something to tide the kids over until then. We tried a new pizza place in town, and YUM--we will definitely go back.

After Ryan was home from school, we ate, got everyone into their costumes, and headed to our ward trunk-or-treat. What a great turnout! Lots of friends, candy, and fun.

.....

Ryan, M.D.

Kate, the cowgirl

Emma, the Native American princess

We are huge Pittsburgh Steelers fans, and so are our good friends, Justin & Erica. They dressed up as the players, and we came as their fans. :)

When the trunk-or-treat ended, we headed back to our neighborhood. With it being our first Halloween in our house, we really wanted to take the opportunity to meet more of our neighbors. I wasn't sure what to expect--since we live in the country, homes are pretty spread out, and I didn't know how many kids would actually be out trick-or-treating. Boy, was I surprised! It was like one huge party! All the houses are setback quite a ways, so most people had the portable firepits set up at the end of their driveways. They sat around the fires on campchairs, and passed out candy as kids went by. There were small tractors pulling flatbed wagons behind them, and they were carrying bunches of trick-or-treaters. We met almost every one of our new neighbors, and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

We pulled the girls around in the wagon, and as you can tell, they were VERY focused on all the candy they were receiving!

After finishing up in our neighborhood, we headed over to a Halloween open house and dinner at the home of some our good friends. As soon as Ryan got out of the van, he was bombarded by boys that had been waiting and waiting for him to get there so they could do more trick-or-treating. He headed off with them, while we stayed to eat and chat with friends.

The "cool" cowgirl

When we headed home, we were tired, but glad for the really wonderful day we had--

Happy Halloween!!

{blessings}

Happy 100 posts to me! In honor of the occasion, I thought it would be most appropriate to name 100 of my many blessings. I have such a good life, and I want to recognize all the wonderful things that are a part of it.

1. My faith: It has shaped my life, and gives me a foundation for everything I do. I know who I am, where I came from, and my purpose in life, and that's worth everything.

2. Rick: He is incredibly supportive of everything I do, and is always willing to help in any way he can. Most recently he helped me cut and router over 350 pieces of wood for my craft day. :) He knew he was in for it though, because our very first date was a college Sadie Hawkins' dance that I was in charge of. I think we danced once, maybe twice, because I was so busy running around taking care of things! He is a wonderful father, and always puts our family first. He and our children are my life!

3. Ryan: What a good boy! He fills my heart with gladness that I am his mom. He is such a great helper with the girls, is funny, happy, active, and full of life.

4. Kate: She is my little helper! She loves being around me, helping with whatever I happen to be doing. She also inherited my sweet tooth, poor girl, and we love to eat candy together. :)

5. Emma: She always has a baby in her arms ("Sally"), and is extremely maternal. She loves to rock them, put them to sleep, and feed them dinner. She is also quite the fireball--

6. My parents: I was definitely blessed with wonderful parents, and now grandparents. I can't even tell you how many times they have sacrificed for us, to help us in any way then can.

7. My sister: She is one of my best friends, and I love her very much! We are very similar, yet very different, and I think we complement each other well. I hope someday we can live close.

8. My brothers: I have two brothers, both of which are big, tough, and full of heart. I love when we get together, because they always make me laugh.

9. Rick's family: They became my family when we got married, and I'm grateful that they are in my life!

10. Good friends: My life would not be the same without the influence of wonderful friends. Whether old or new, close or far away, I hold each of them dear.

11. Home: After 7 years of school and 12 years of marriage, we were more than ready for our first home! We love it here!

12. Health We are all healthy and happy, and even Ryan's diabetes is under control. This is a huge blessing, we know.

12. Great town & community: I cannot say enough good things about our small, family-friendly community. Tons of parks, gardens, city forests, cultural events, and programs that are geared towards children and family make this a great place to live.

13. Education: I think this one speaks for itself. How blessed are we, to have been able to receive good educations, and for Rick to support our family like he does! I love that it's always at our fingertips, and that we can always be learning and growing.

14. Medical Technology: Without a doubt, none of my three children would be alive without the miracles of modern medical technology. I am truly grateful.

15. Computers: Where would I be without my laptop? Seriously, everything I do (almost) revolves around the computer, and I depend on it way too much!

16. Modern appliances: Really, how it would be to wash your clothes by hand? I am very grateful for my washer, dryer, gas stove, dishwasher...

17. Service/Volunteer Work: Somehow the blessings always came back to us, because serving our community and those around us always strengthens us and our family. I love being able to help, in anyway I can. I have also been the recipient of such service, and I know how it feels to have someone care.

18. Good schools: Another wonderful part of our community is the fantastic schools. Our children are being given the gift of a good education, and an excellent beginning to the rest of their lives.

19. Nap time:I really think that's all that needs to be said. :)

20. Bedtime: Same as above. :)

21: Good books/Library: I LOVE to read. REALLY love to read. Since childhood, I have always had my head in a book, and it's definitely my favorite past time. Whenever we move somewhere new, I always check out the library first. It's the most important stop for me!

22. A reliable vehicle: I honestly never thought I would drive a van, but here I am, in all my soccer mom glory, and loving it!

23. Music: Music, and being able to play the piano literally shaped my life. It is an integral part of who I am, and I will forever be grateful to my mother, she started me in lessons at the age of 4-- and supported, encouraged (prodded), and gave me every opportunity. This ability supported us through school as I taught piano lessons (and still do!), and it continues to enrich my life today.

24. Digital cameras: Hooray for not developing a whole roll of film and getting one good picture! Yay for being able to see what you look like, and being able to delete it if necessary! :)

25. Blogging: I am not a great journal-writer, but having a blog gives me the opportunity to express myself, keep a family history, and talk about my favorite things in life--friends and family.

26. DVR: It's true, once you have it, you can never go back! The FF and pause buttons are forever a part of our household!

27. Sports: I have played sports my whole life, and have always loved them. They are a release for me, and I thoroughly enjoy working hard, getting all sweaty, and the competition. I have played on a competitive volleyball team for years, and I look forward to it every year. Rick and I play racquetball, run, go mountain biking, play basketball, soccer, and anything else we can be a part of!

28. Target: Enough said. :)

29. Family vacations: We love exploring the country together, and experiencing that together. We still talk about all of our trips, and we are always looking forward to more!

30. Hot water: After running out of hot water yesterday, and a child refusing to take a shower, this is on my mind!

31. Clearance sales: You know how many of our clothes I have purchased on clearance, or a really great sale? Let's just say it's a very high percentage! I love being able to get nice clothes for a great price.

32. Fall: What a fantastic time of year! It's my VERY favorite time, and I look forward to it all year long. The crisp air, gorgeous leaves changing color, all the smells of baking and cooking..I could go on and on!

33. Cider Mills & Pumpkin Patches: I consider these a separate blessing. :) You can't get much better than warm cider doughnuts, hayrides, hot chocolate, choosing your own pumpkin, and being bundled up in cozy sweaters.

34. Freedom: I believe this is something that is taken for granted way too often, and can even be abused. We are the most blessed nation in the world, and I am so grateful for our everyday freedoms, and those that defend them.

35. MOFia: I love you all!

36. Good movies: Love, love, love a good movie! I'm one that can watch my favorites over and over again, and I only buy a movie if I really love it. I have a top 10; I'll have to post it sometime!

37. Water: This is our most basic need, but it also is my beverage of choice. Add some lime, and I'm good to go!

38. The beach: The waves, the blue of the water, the smell in the air, good friends, warm sand, and yummy food...can't beat it!

39. Lotion: I am the lotion queen. I have it everywhere in my house, and I put it on at least 20 times a day. I would be lost without it! LOVE it!

40. Girls' Nights Out!: There is nothing better for a quick pick-me-up, than getting together with good friends for yummy food and lots of talking and laughter. SO fun!

41. Trick-or-treating: Dressing your kids up in cute costumes and watching their excitement, seeing neighbors and friends, and lots of chocolate? Winning combination!!

42. Telephones: In any form, they are my lifeline!

43. E-mail: I know that I am able to keep in contact with so many more people than I would without it.

44. Disposable diapers: Environmentally friendly or not, I can't imagine life without them, especially having two in them at a time!

45. Parks: We spend so much time at the park during the nice months of the year. We are lucky to have so many wonderful parks in our community to take advantage of.

46. Bike Trailers: I take my girls on bike rides often, even as a mode of transportation. They love the ride, and so do I

47. Running shoes: Good ones make all the difference!

48. Chocolate: I didn't even like chocolate (crazy, I know) until after Ryan was born. Now I crave it!

49. Warm sweaters: Give me a great cable-knit sweater, and I'm a happy girl!

50. Cozy fires: This is one of my favorite things in our new house. We have recently been able to have fires in the evening, since the weather has really cooled down, and I love it!!

51. Dora the Explorer: This show makes it possible for me to have at least 30 minutes to myself each day. :)

52. Tide with Downy: Soft, great-smelling laundry. Mmmmmmmm.

53. Fluffy towels: We got new towels a year or so ago, after the ones we got for our wedding finally wore out. Wow, what a difference!

54. Bleach: I am also the bleach queen. I love it in any form. I use it to clean bathrooms (Clorox Cleaner), add it to white loads, and love the Clorox Bleach Pen. I pour it down sinks, and to disinfect garbage cans. My life would not be the same without it.

55. Online banking: No more checks, envelopes, and stamps, hooray!

56. Food storage: What a good feeling, to see food lined up and ready? It's always a work in progress, but it's nice to know it's growing!

57. Health Insurance: This is an area where we are extremely blessed. Our insurance has incredible coverage, and with all of our health needs, we are truly thankful.

58. Babies: Chunky, squishy, sweet, soft, yummy-smelling babies!

59. Elections: As crazy as the coming election has gotten, I am still so thankful that we have the opportunity to vote, which hasn't always been the case. It drives me crazy that not every person in this nation is lined up to vote.

60. Green grass: After a summer with dirt for a yard, I'm especially grateful for the nice green lawn we have now!

61. Sprinkler systems: This one goes hand-in-hand with #60, but after my AWFUL experience this summer (remind me, and I'll tell you about it!), this is a big blessing for me!

62. Blow dryers: I am not a natural beauty, nor does my hair look good without blowing it out everyday. It's just curly enough to sabotage letting it air dry, and it's not curly enough to wear curly. I would look vastly different my friends, without my trusty blow dryer and round brush.

63. High thread-count sheets: I haven't always been so lucky to have them, but now that I do, they are fabulous!!

64. A playroom: After years of storing the toys behind our couch or big chair, it is heaven having a playroom, and a big closet to put all the toys.

65. Online shopping: I don't think Rick would name this as one of his blessings. :) I love being able to shop online, especially for my kids. It's easy, fast, and saves me time and usually money.

66. Homemade bread: Right out of the oven, with butter and homemade jam? YUM!

67. Crock pots: This is really on my mind lately, because once fall starts, I use it often, all throughout the winter. There is something so comforting about the yummy smell all day, plus it's wonderful to throw it in and forget about it!

68. Vinyl lettering: I've made some really cute things for my house using it, and it is LIGHT YEARS better than trying to hand paint or stencil (at least in my case!).

69. Black spray paint: I cannot tell you how many cans of black spray paint I have used, or how many items I have used it on. LOVE it!

70. Power tools: I love projects, and inevitably, I need a power tool in order to complete it.

71. A husband that is a talented woodworker: Rick is incredibly talented, and can make anything! He has made a lot of furniture in our home, and the best part is, I can design it anyway I want to!

72. Candles/warmers: I personally use a Scentsy warmer, and it is on everyday. A yummy-smelling house is the best!

73. Family Home Evening: Each Monday night is set aside as our family night, and we all look forward to it. A lesson, songs, games, treats = FUN!

74. Storage baskets/containers: I am kind of a freak about organization, and it's so fantastic to have so many things to help us keep our homes in order. I would a new basket everyday, if I could!

75. Winter: It's taken me a long time to say this, but I actually enjoy the winter now. Snowmen, cross-country skiing with kids in tow, sledding, tobogganing, hot chocolate, beautiful snowy days...it definitely has it's good points. :)

76. Thanksgiving: It's one of my favorite holidays! I love everything about it--the food, family, friends, playing football, and more!

77. Sewing machines: After years of apprehension, I finally caved in and bought a sewing machine. I have also actually sewed something. :) I have to admit that it's really nice to be able to hem Ryan's Halloween costume all on my own, and to even think about making a costume for the girls. I have a lot to learn, but I'm glad for the opportunity!

78. Christmas lights: How fun is it, to drive down the street and see all the houses lit up with lights? I'm so excited that we get to that this year too!

79. Christmas Eve: It's my favorite part of Christmas--acting out the Nativity, reading the Christmas story around the fire, opening that first traditional gift of pajamas, eating our favorite foods, driving around to see the lights, feeling the anticipation in the air---LOVE it!

80. Cutting down a Christmas tree each year: The day after Thanksgiving we head to our favorite tree farm, all bundled up. We take a hayride out to where the trees are, and then search and search for that perfect tree. After lots of discussion, we finally decide, and Daddy cuts it down with Ryan's help. It's the mark of the season for us, and we are already on the countdown!

81. A lit Christmas tree: One of the biggest reasons I have my tree up for so long, is that I love having the rest of the house dark, while the tree is lit. I look forward to each night, when we can sit and just enjoy the simple beauty of our lit tree.

82. Good doctors: We are so fortunate to have a really excellent physician--one who cares about us, and genuinely cares.

83. Football: We love both college (Michigan State) and NFL (Go Steelers!) football, and it wouldn't be fall without it.

84. Yummy restaurants: I love eating out--it's one of our indulgences. I'm looking forward to one of my favorite Mexican grill places coming soon--I can't wait!

85. Glad ware: What a great invention! It lasts forever, but it's not the end of the world if it's lost or ruined!

86. Real butter: No margarine for me--I'm a real butter girl. It makes everything better!

87. The school bus: After taking and picking up Ryan from school for 4 years (including when I had newborn twins), I ADORE the bus. Seriously, ADORE.

88. Good teachers: After Ryan's teacher just left for another position, I realized just how much of an impact they have on our children. They spend more of the day with them, than they do with us, and they have the potential to influence their entire lives. I am so grateful for all the wonderful teachers I have had, and that Ryan has had. I still keep in touch with my 8th grade English teacher (the one that taped my mouth :) ), and I will always remember what she did for me.

89. Cold cereal: I really should buy stock in General Mills, I eat so many Cheerios! I LOVE cold cereal, and eat it at least twice a day. When I was pregnant with Ryan, I went through a month or two where I couldn't stand the thought of it, and I was so worried that I would never like it again. Thankfully, it was only a phase. :0

90. A husband that irons: The only thing I've ever ironed is sheets, because my husband irons everything else! Yay!! I just lay out whatever I need ironed, and he does it along with his work clothes. I am truly a lucky girl.

91. Great neighborhood: It's so fun to have people wave as you're running by, or have kids stop over and see if your child can play. Everyone is so friendly, and it just makes it a really great place to live.

92. Leftovers: Anytime I don't have to make dinner, I consider it a blessing. :)

93. Fresh herbs: I am addicted to cilantro right now, and basil, oregano, dill, and flat-leaf parsley are right up there too. They really make the difference in any recipe.

94. Good examples: I am surrounded by very strong, talented women, and I benefit from them on a daily basis. I am challenged by them, learn from them, and I am constantly grateful for their influence in my life.

95. A garden: We have always enjoyed having a garden, and being able to grow our own vegetables. I have to admit though, that the thing I most enjoy is the fact that Rick likes to do it, since I don't. Just ask my dad. :)

96. Fresh flowers: Any kind will do--nothing gives your home, or a friend, more of a pick-me-up than a vase of fresh-cut flowers!

97. Country roads: Remember my previous post? LOVE them.

98. Soup on a cold day: It just makes everything right.

99. A happy home: I love my husband and children, and though we aren't perfect, we are doing the best we can.

100. And most of all...I am blessed to have enough.

{talks with poppy}

Poppy is my dad. We live far away from my parents, but we still manage to see them at least once (sometimes twice) a year. He is an amazing hands-on grandpa, and every one of my children love being around him and spending time with him. So much so, that they want to talk to him all.the.time.

At least once (sometimes more) a day, they will grab the phone and ask to "talk to Poppy". More often than not, it happens to be early in the morning there (we are 2 hours later), but they are absolutely insistent, and give no regard to the earliness of the morning (despite my best efforts--but trying to explain the merits of waiting until after 6:30am in the morning to a 2 year old really is futile). So, I dial the number, and let them put the phone up to their ear. What follows is simply priceless.

Sometimes they are quiet, and just want to listen to his voice, and other times he can't get a word in edgewise. Sometime I will hear a few yes's or no's, but most often it is rambling sentences of strung together mumblings that even I can't understand, but makes perfect sense to them. My dad is such a trooper, and I can hear him in the background asking them questions, and trying to figure out which one it is! But most of all, I know he loves it too.
I love that they can establish and maintain a relationship with a grandparent that lives far away, and that they each will have their own special way to keep in contact with him. They are only 2 years old, but they know that they are loved, and they know that they love Poppy too. I hope they will do this forever.

{"but mom, it's recyclable"}

Ryan came with me last night to watch my volleyball game. I always take a water bottle with me, and after the game when I went to toss it in the garbage, he stopped me and said, "but mom, it's recyclable"! So, he carted that water bottle all the way home, along with another bottle that he found in the bleachers.

Ryan has been a really good example to our family when it comes to recycling. You'd think it would be the opposite way around, but it's something he feels very strongly about. Last year for Scouts, Ryan visited the recycling center, and he soaked it all up. He knows that if it's #s 1, 2, or 5, it goes in the green recycling bin, and he keeps us all in line.

I'm learning to recycle, because it is important to me too. We have always (until now) lived in apartments or town homes, where they didn't come around and pick up recycling items along with the trash. Since we've moved into our home, I have been extra conscious about anything that can be recycled, and I've been surprised about how many things that actually is. I love knowing that they aren't headed to the landfill to just sit forever, but will actually be re-used into something useful. I have always been mindful of trying to re-use what I can around my home, or pass things on to those that might need them or can use them, and recycling is just another aspect of that.

I have a really good friend who is the recycling queen of America. This past garbage day, they only had one trash bag to take out (for a family of 8!), and the rest was recycled. After spending a lot of time in her home, I now think of her before I throw anything away!

There are many other ways that we can contribute to making our earth a better place to live, and if each of us does our part, even a small part, it will make a big difference!

{this is what happens...}

when I feel the need to have lotion available in every corner of the house. Poor thing. :(

P.S. This was all done with the very helpful assistance of her dear sister.

{choices}

I have it a little different than most. I actually get to choose the month and season in which I would like to have a baby (or two) :). In addition to the long, long list of downsides of infertility, I have to say, this is a perk I appreciate.

I am a planner through and through, and the fact that I get to actually sit down and decide when I have a baby makes me giddy. Under normal circumstances, I would be so happy I was having a baby that it would not matter in the slightest WHEN I was due, but that I was actually pregnant. But since I do get to choose, I might as well make the most of it!

Now that the girls are 2, I have started to think that I may be ready to begin the planning stages. My analytical self can't help but ask the question...which season really is the best time to have a baby?

SPRING:

PROS:
-You aren't pregnant during the summer...advantageous for both the heat, and traveling purposes.
-When the baby is born, it's beautiful outside, and you're ready for great weather!
-Traveling with a newborn (vacations) could actually be a pro and a con, but they sleep so well, I think it's easier with a newborn vs. toddler.

CONS:
-Baby weight is still on for the summer and swimsuit season. ugh.
-You have to wear shoes and socks (winter pregnancy), which is problematic towards the end when your feet swell up to the size of balloons.

SUMMER:

PROS:
-You still can look forward to a lot of good weather before winter comes.
-If it's towards the beginning of summer, it's still not too hot.
-It's really easy to dress a baby in the summer--onesie, onesie, onesie!
-Flip flops baby! I had Ryan at the end of summer (early fall), and I LOVED being able to just slide on flip flops. No bending, tying, or otherwise exerting yourself to wear shoes. :)
-I really love summer maternity clothes. Okay, so I love all maternity clothes. :)

NEUTRAL:
-Older kids are out of school. This could really go either way. On one hand it's great to have the extra help and hands, but on the other, it's more people to take care of.

CONS:
-HOT, HOT, HOT. I already have to sleep with no sheets and a fan during the summer. You add in a hot little baby in the tummy, and whoa!
-Still no time to lose weight.
-Summer schedules are hard to predict, and there may not be the opportunity to do as many things. With older kids, this could be tough.

FALL:

PROS:
-This is my favorite season, so I know I would enjoy having a baby during this time. Cooler weather, trips to the cider mill, baby's first Halloween, etc.--so fun!
-Still time to enjoy some nice weather, and the fact that it's not the dead of winter is a big plus in my book!
-School in in. This means less people to take care of at home, and maybe more time to spend with the baby, It definitely means less people to run errands with, which is huge!
-6 to 8 months before summer--time to lose some baby weight before swimsuit season!
-Once again, flip flops baby!

CONS:
-Winter is coming.
-You have to be pregnant through the whole entire summer.
-Depending on when the baby is born (late fall), you may need two sets of maternity clothes.
-Having a newborn through all the holidays could be stressful.

WINTER:

PROS:
-You can have a snuggly baby in lots of blankets, and adorable hats, and cozy sweaters.
-As with fall, you have time weight before summer hits. There are also more places to hide those extra pounds...under layers. :)
-A new baby in a Christmas stocking. I've always wanted to do that!

CONS:
-It takes a lot more time to get a baby dressed and ready to go in the winter--lots more "stuff" to put on.
-Feeling like you're stuck in the house, and not able to go out is hard. RSV season can be scary for some babies. Even if your baby isn't at risk, the frigid cold is still something you don't want to take them out in.

Okay, so now it's your turn! I would love to hear from you, and what your opinions and experiences are. In the end, we'll go with whatever timing feels right, and you all know it doesn't really matter when you have a baby--it's a privelege I didn't think I would always have. In the meantime though, it's awfully fun to talk about!

{pumpkin carving party}

We held our first ever pumpkin carving party yesterday, and it was a definite success. We invited a few families over for the festivities, which included carving outside on the picnic tables, eating yummy soups, breads, and adorable ghost & bug cookies, sitting by the fire and roasting marshmallows, and jumping in the leaves. The weather was perfect, and it was so fun to see all the kids running around having such a great time. We have already decided this will be a yearly tradition!

.....

Getting all the guts out!




I put the girls to work coloring their pumpkins on their own little table. It kept them happy, busy, and let them do something on their own. They went to town, and loved every minute of it. Best of all, those washable markers really are washable!




We had just raked all the leaves that day, and Rick left one big pile just perfect for jumping and playing in.


Ta-da!


And what comes after the pumpkin carving? Toasted pumpkin seeds, of course! I will be busy washing and sorting seeds tomorrow, in eager anticipation of this yummy snack. Here are my favorite recipes:

TOASTED CINNAMON & SUGAR PUMPKIN SEEDS

2 c. pumpkin seeds
2-3 T. butter, melted
cinnamon & sugar

Wash seeds well. Boil seeds in a small amount of water in a medium saucepan for 10 minutes. Spread out evenly on aluminum foil and dry well. Toss the dry seeds in the butter, then coat with cinnamon & sugar. Spread out on a cookie sheet that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Bake at 225 degrees for approximately 1-1.5 hours or until toasted brown.

TOASTED PUMPKIN SEEDS

2 c. pumpkin seeds
1 1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
2 T. butter, melted
1 1/4 tsp. seasoning salt (or table salt, if preferred)

Follow same directions as above.

ENJOY!!

{country roads}

I am drawn to country roads--the gentle sweep of trees, their long branches bending over the well-worn path, and in the fall, painting a vivid scene of red, yellow, and orange.

I'm an old-fashioned girl, and there is something about seeing these roads that takes me back one hundred years; I can just about see strong, broad horses pulling their carriages along the way. From there I can see into the farmhouse, with a woman standing at the counter rolling out pie crusts, her sleeves rolled up to her elbows, and her apron neatly tied around her waist. I can smell the wood burning in the stove, the spice of the cinnamon and nutmeg, and the floors she just cleaned that morning. The barn is there too, red of course, but slightly faded. I imagine barn dances, evening strolls, and little red schoolhouses.

All of this evokes in me such nostalgia for things past, that I think it's why when we started looking for lots to build on, I was naturally drawn out into the country, where I could have my own country road.

This is the road I live on...


Today the weather was so beautiful, that we decided to go a couple miles down the road to the city forest for a bike ride. The scenery was breathtaking, and I couldn't help but take pictures of the most amazing bridge, which is in the first picture I showed, and this last one:


I guess it explains why Anne of Green Gables is my favorite movie ever. :)

{when all is quiet}

I knew this was bound to happen sooner or later, and it's exactly what I get for leaving my lipstick within range of little hands. It could have been a whole lot worse though--Miss Kate actually got it mostly on her lips, with only a few smudges on her fingers and a dot on her shirt.

Hey, she's a natural!

{pumpkin patch}

I adore the fall, and going to the cider mill and pumpkin patch. I will use any excuse to go and usually visit one of my favorites once a week or more with the girls through the season. As a family we don't get to go as often, but we always plan one big trip to choose our carving pumpkins and some fun fall decorations for our porch. Today was that day!

Due to time constraints, we decided to go to one that I have only been to once before, but is fairly close to our home. We saw all the animals, went through the corn maze, ate doughnuts and drank hot chocolate, picked out pumpkins (Ryan's was 37 pounds!!!), and rode the barrel train ride at least 6 times! It was a perfectly crisp fall day, and the sights and smells were fabulous. I relished every minute of this perfect day!

.....

Kate and Emma's favorite ride!


Miss Kate, happy as can be--


Aren't cider doughnuts the best? Especially warm...yum!


Emma is obsessed with pigs, and so when she saw "Gertrude", a real live pig, she was pretty excited (that is until she started coming towards her!). Here she is, mimicking the pig's oink.


Choosing pumpkins...








Outtake #1 (of many)...trying to get a picture of all of them--


This is the best I got...and this is even including bribery!


Heading home, with all of our fun fall loot!


Happy fall!

{time and a season}

I know, it's been over a week, since I posted, but I have a very good reason. :) My sister and her 13 month old little boy have been here for the past week, and we have been so busy I haven't had a chance to be online much.

It has been such a great week, but we realized this week how much our lives have changed. Most of our time has been spent caring for our three little ones--feeding (a lot!), changing diapers, entertaining, and just trying to keep things at a dull roar. We have one that doesn't sleep very well and is still adjusting to a different time zone, another that likes to escape her bed 15 times a night, a couple that are having a hard time sharing their mom and their toys, and three that are absolutely adorable.

We have managed to do a little shopping, make a midnight run for treats (have you tried the Bacardi frozen concentrate mixers??? They are AMAZING!!! I'm totally addicted!), and are planning a dinner and movie Friday night. We have bonded during nap times, read books, made dinner, shopped online, shared ideas, and LAUGHED. A lot.

We were reminiscing about a visit she made right before the girls were born. She wasn't married yet, and Ryan was in school all day. We slept in, laid in bed watching movies and reading, had Rick bring us ice cream and treats, and pretty much relaxed the whole week. She even pushed me around Target in a wheelchair (I was on bed rest, and technically not supposed to be out of bed), and we shopped as long as we wanted to!

It's a far cry from what this week has entailed, but do you know, I have enjoyed it just as much. We are sharing our biggest commonality, and what we love the most in this world--our kids, and the opportunity we have to be mothers. We understand each other and what we are going through--the good, the very good, the bad, the hard, the frustrating, the rewarding, the tiredness, and the joy.

I suppose our visits will be like this for quite few more years, but one day we will be sitting together, remembering these times, and wishing that somehow we could have a little piece of what used to be.

Henry--he is absolutely adorable!

Happy Birthday Ryanboy!

There is a 10 year old at our house today, and I still can't believe it. The proverbial "time flies" is especially applicable in this case, and it really does seem like yesterday that he was a little boy. I really don't think I'm old enough to have a child that's 10...I guess that's what you get for starting young!

We have had a great day, even with the sad news that Rick missed his flight home and wouldn't get here until late tonight. We still had his special dinner of stuffed shells, garlic bread, and strawberries, but we are saving presents (since Dad has them in his suitcase, lol) and cake until tomorrow morning. Cake for breakfast--sounds good to me!

Ryan and I have developed a special bond over the years. He was my only child for 7 1/2 years, and with Rick in school for several years, it was just the two of us for a long time. I loved this time, and will always look back on it with very fond memories. He is a kind, funny, curious, talented, smart boy, and our house wouldn't be complete without him!

(Sorry about the picture quality--we didn't have a digital camera when he was young, and these are pictures of pictures. They were glossy pics, and I couldn't the flash to work right)

.....

Going home from the hospital


Hogle Zoo was one of our favorite places when he was little!


Family picture, 6 months old


One of our Christmas pictures, 1 year old


Merry Christmas!


I LOVE this picture--that cute "orange" hair!


Two cute boys


Ice skating for the first time


My mom's favorite picture of him


We had these pictures taken a few months before he turned 3. The picture of him from the side was taken because he refused to turn around and smile. I had the photographer go ahead and take the picture, because this was just how he looked when he didn't want to do something! If you look closely, you can see he's looking to the side, trying not to move his head!




At the airport, when my sister came home from her mission


Handsome boy, 5 years old


WE LOVE YOU RYAN!!

{curveball}

Four years ago, Ryan's life, and the life of our family ceased to exist as we then knew it. This time of year is a landmark for us, and it always causes me to reflect on just how far we've come.

.....

Ryan, kindergarten

We were in St. George, UT, where Rick was running the St. George Marathon, and we were visiting friends and family. Ryan had just turned 6 years old the week before, and we were also celebrating his birthday with family while we were there. During the trip, I noticed that he was extra hungry that week--we would eat dinner, and 15 minutes later he would be asking for more food. I explained that away by all the activity, and the excitement of being on vacation. He was also really thirsty, but since we were in the hot desert, I figured it went with the territory. When he had to go the bathroom frequently, I associated that with all the water he was drinking.

When we got home though, those symptoms didn't subside. One particular day though, stands out so clearly. It was a Monday, and I had taken him with me to Joann Fabrics. We were there for a couple of hours, and during that time, he had to use the bathroom 7 times. Right then and there I knew something was not right, and I couldn't explain it away. That evening I called one of our best friends, who also happened to be Ryan's doctor. He made some room in his schedule the next day for us to come in, but during the course of our conversation, and the questions he asked, he told me he was almost positive what the diagnosis would be.

We showed up at the office, and after a blood glucose test, he informed me that Ryan was a Type 1 diabetic--that his pancreas has shut down and was no longer functioning, and that he would now be insulin dependent. I tried to be very strong, and not show my emotions--the ones that were quickly coming to the surface. I didn't want Ryan to see that I was scared for him, and that I already could see how his life was going to change.

I called Rick when we left the office, and of course, he was out-of-town on business. He immediately spoke to his boss, and got permission to come home. He left on a flight the next morning, and came home as quickly as he could. Meanwhile, the next day, Ryan and I went to the diabetes clinic. We met with an amazing nurse, who walked me through a very overwhelming scenario. I found myself thrust into a life of needles and medication, and faced with the daunting task of giving my 6 year old shots up to 6 times a day. I knew Ryan was so scared, and really had no concept of what was happening. I just wanted to hold him close, and let him know everything would be okay. I will never forget that first visit--the first time I had to give him a shot, right there with the nurse making sure I was doing it right, and with Ryan crying. I was crying too, even though I had promised myself I would try and stay strong. Even though I had had the nurse give me a shot first, to demonstrate how it might look and feel, he was shaking. Finally, we made it through, and we went on to meet with the dietitian. I received a quick tutorial on counting carbohydrates, and reviewed a sliding scale that would dictate how much insulin Ryan would need--both short-acting and long-acting. After 2 hours, we were on our own.

Wednesday, the day after our visit to the clinic, Ryan's blood sugar kept spiking. After numerous calls to the doctor, and injections of insulin, I couldn't get it to come down. Finally, I needed to take him to the ER. As I was backing out of the driveway, Rick started driving in. He was home, and I had never been so happy to see him. When we got to the hospital, they immediately went into action, and they were able to get him back down to where he should be. We were very lucky, and Ryan didn't end up having to stay in the hospital at all, and we were were able to take him home that night.

Gradually, our life adjusted to a "new normal". At home, we were quickly learning how many carbohydrates were int he foods we ate, and within a few weeks I could quote just about any food around! We discovered the best places to give an injection, and which angle hurt the least. In the beginning, every time Ryan took his blood sugar (a poke in the forearm or finger), he had to put a band-aid on it. Well, since we were doing this 6-8 times a day, you can imagine what his arms looked like! After hearing about that, one sweet family showed up at our door with a lifetime supply of band-aids, with all the fun characters all over them. It was gestures like this, by friends and family, that strengthened all of us, and kept us going through those first really tough weeks. Gradually we fell into a routine of shots, taking his blood sugar, and treating him for any highs or lows that occurred, and counting carbs. We dealt with birthday parties and play dates, all the while trying to maintain as normal of an existence as possible.

Ryan was also just a few weeks into kindergarten, and there was a lot to be done in order for him to go back to school. Teachers, staff, administration, and a para pro were all trained, a 504 plan created and implemented, and in general, things became more scheduled. Overnight I was on a first name basis with the principal, gym teacher, counselor, and secretary, and each of them played an integral part in the smooth transition that took place. His cute teacher wrote down in his special notebook every single thing he ate while at school, and I always smiled when I read "9 M&M's", or "55 goldfish". Other parents were so thoughtful and kind, and it showed in the type of snacks they brought to class. Room mothers brought sugar-free candy to parties, and all of this was done without putting Ryan in the spotlight or making him feel uncomfortable. I will always be so grateful to all the wonderful people that made a difficult situation much easier--they showed true compassion.

The real hero in this story? Ryan. We're talking about a child who was scared to get his hair cut--a child that would shake at the very mention of a shot during a well-child visit. His aversion to needles was deep, and when I first realized what this diagnosis meant for him, I was terrified. But he was incredibly blessed, and I believe a miracle occurred. After the first week, he was an old pro. He took everything in stride, never complained, and did everything that was asked of him. He learned how to take his own blood sugar that first year, and is now giving himself insulin with supervision. He learned addition and multiplication while calculating carbohydrates and insulin dosages, and learned how to read by looking at food labels. Less than a year later, he was able to go on an insulin pump, which has been fantastic. He is constantly an example to me, and I am so amazed by his strength and tenacity. Just yesterday I received a note from his teacher that complimented Ryan, and the way that he handled himself at school. He is such a wonderful boy, and I feel very lucky to be his mother.

Sure, the road hasn't always been smooth, and we have surely hit bumps along the way. But thanks to a very loving Father in Heaven, wonderful friends and family, kind teachers and parents, and each other, we are making it through, and we are each stronger for it.

{clue}

Dear Emma,

If you are going to raid the pantry, I would suggest not leaving any incriminating evidence behind.

Love,
Mom

{before and after}

Let's see...

digging in the dirt with a shovel and bucket, sitting by the firepit, eating tinfoil dinners, jumping on the trampoline, swinging on the swings, eating S'mores and plenty of chocolate, riding up and down the driveway...it's a busy life for a 2-year old, and a mighty dirty one at that!


One bath, two scrubbings, and lots of soap later...