{'tis the season}

October is always such a blur. It's a good blur, though--jam packed with all those festivities and traditions we love!

1. Haunted Gingerbread Houses

We had so much fun last year making haunted gingerbread houses, we knew it had to be a tradition. It was just as big of a hit this year, but with the fantastic weather, we were able to be outside and enjoy the sun. One thing we didn't count on...it was so warm that the frosting got all melty, and the candy had a hard time sticking! No complaints though--it was wonderful!



2. Pumpkin Patch




Despite going in the early evening, the sun was shining directly across the pumpkins. It made for a beautiful day, but not very good pictures!

3. Caramel Apples

We dipped caramel apples for Family Home Evening--YUM! My personal favorite? Caramel, white chocolate, cinnamon & sugar, then nuts. It is fabulous.


4. Perfect weather

We've been really lucky this month, with beautiful days in the 60's. My babies love being outside, so I take them out whenever I can. Ryan is also my great helper, and will take them out while I'm making dinner. I wish it would last through November...

{goings-on}

What goes on at our house...

1. Family Pictures

If you've ever had these taken, you know exactly what I'm going to say. My good friend is an up and coming photographer, and thank goodness she has infinite patience and really loves us (plus she's really good at what she does). With four kids four and under, two babies that are not content to sit for any amount of time, the weather threatening imminent rain, a very enthralling cow (to the babies, anyway) and a limited amount of time before darkness, it was quite the experience. After about 5 minutes, I realized any and all expectations I had needed to be tossed right out the window.

I'm hoping that this experience is like childbirth, and that by next year, I'll be ready to try it again.

2. Hair Color Mishap

Somehow, last week I was able to make hair appointments for my girls the day of our family pictures, but didn't even think about the needing to touch up my highlights until it hit me the DAY BEFORE. So, after trying and failing to get an appointment of my own, I decided to take matters in to my own hands. I had highlighted my hair on my own once before, a couple years ago, but it was under direct supervision and with the advisement of my dear and beautiful friend Erica. However, I have a tendency to go full steam ahead once I get something in my head, and this case was no different. So, starting at 10pm, I went for it. I won't get into the ugly details, but let's just say at 12:30am I went to bed, hoping that it would look better in the morning.

It didn't.

Thank goodness for being the last appointment of the day, with a hair stylist that was able to fix and style my hair, plus cut and style the girls' hair, all within 1 1/2 hours. We had 30 minutes to spare.

3. 'Til death do us part...


Rick was taking some clients and staff to lunch last week, and since he needed a bigger vehicle, he took the Sequoia instead of his car. One the guys he works with turned to him and said, "So you DO have a nice car!".

Our poor little Maxima is on its last leg. It's the oldest member of our family, and has been around since before Ryan was born. It's hitting the 200,000 mile mark, and has taken our family all over the United States. Now it's content to take Rick to work (6 miles), and church (6 miles), and that's about it. But, we just can't justify spending money on a vehicle, when we have one that works.

4. When I grow up...

Kate: A jail taker
(someone who takes people to jail)

I can totally picture it. She's one tough cookie!

5. Little blessings

I go grocery shopping on Saturdays. Not my favorite day, but it definitely beats the alternative. Going with four littles? Not a chance. Going at night? No produce. So, I'm a Saturday shopper, which means it's busy, but it's also the day of samples. This week I was excited to see that they were focusing on gluten-free items, and so were all of their samples for the day. I tried some great products, received a bunch of coupons, and I even got a handbook that listed every one of their products that was gluten-free.

It was totally worth my 45 minute check-out wait.

6. Running Buddies


The weather was fabulous this week, and when my girls were at preschool, I decided it would be perfect opportunity to go running and take the boys. It's been a long time since I've been running with the jogging stroller, but I would much rather run with an extra 75 pounds, than be on the treadmill. I didn't hear a peep. I hope that the weather lasts, and will be nice enough for me to take advantage of running with the boys for at least a few more weeks.

.....

{go, state!}

Who doesn't love a good rivalry? Our alma mater, Michigan State, played their nemesis, University of Michigan today, and WON!! Each year we look forward to game day, and today was no different.

We got together with a few other families that love Michigan as much as we love State, which provided a lot of trash-talking, cheering, school color themed food, celebrating (on our part) and SO much fun.

It was the perfect fall day--lots of sunshine, good friends, and football.

Go State!

{change}

I made hot chocolate this morning.

It was cold in the house, because I still haven't turned on the heater yet, and when I looked outside, it seemed like the perfect morning to make it. The weather is changing--getting a little bit colder every day, with more and more leaves dropping from the trees. Winter is coming, and while I'm bracing myself for the months of gray, I know that eventually spring will come, and the world will be bright and new once again.

We have even more changes going on in our house right now, and I hope that just like the changing seasons, once the hard (but necessary) months of gray pass, we will come out on the other side brighter, too.

............

Last week, my little Emma was diagnosed with celiac disease. Many of you may know what that is, or have a family member who has it, because it's quickly becoming one of the fastest growing (or rather, recognized) diseases of the decade.

It basically means that she is gluten intolerant, and cannot eat wheat, rye, oats, or barley. She is now on a gluten-free diet, which when followed correctly, will not only eliminate any symptoms, but actually heal the affected villi in her small intestine.

When you stop and think how many things have gluten in it, it can seem very overwhelming. Most processed or boxed foods, and even canned soups contain gluten in some form--many times contained in the added preservatives, such as modified food starch, monosodium glutamate, and maltodextrin. It eliminates cookies, crackers, bread, pasta, most cereals, pizza, and anything made with flour.

For a little four year old, it can be really hard to understand why she can't have the preschool snack that everyone is having, or why she can't eat the donuts at the cider mill. But, we have some things on our side, too. Emma is a very logical four year old, and has the ability to reason much more than any of my others have been at her age. When I explained to her that eating certain things made her tummy hurt, and that we really needed to stop eating them, she understood. She has taken to caramel rice cakes like nothing else, and loves that she has special boxes of rice pasta and granola bars that are just hers.

I'm not saying we're not going to have challenges, because they will most certainly come. Trying to cook a dinner each night that she can eat, and that everyone will enjoy will be tricky. Helping her through the birthday parties, preschool snacks, lunches with friends, school lunches, going out to eat, and the myriad of other times that this will be an issue is going to be hard. At some point, her reasoning will fall, and her emotions will come through. I know there will be times where both of us will be crying our eyes out, maybe even banging our fists at the sheer frustration and disappointment that will most likely come. And that's okay. But I'm hoping that if we focus on the positive things--on all the things we have to be grateful for--it might help us all through those difficult moments.

..........

I'm grateful that there is something we can do to help--that we have some modicum of control, and that I don't have to sit and wonder if she'll be okay. As long as the diet is followed, she will be healthy and happy. How fortunate we are, for this.

I'm grateful for parents that paved the way for me, and raised my brother and sister who also have it. I grew up in a home where we ate simply, but never knew it. My dad is the rice flour expert, and has already shared the secrets to yummy rice waffles. (which are actually really good!)

I'm grateful for an amazing doctor, who has been and will continue to be an excellent source of information and support.

I'm grateful for good friends and family, who are there for me when the times get tough, and are always willing to lend an understanding ear.

I'm grateful for Emma.

{cider mill}

In the past six days, we've been to the cider mill three times. I just can't get enough of them!

We have a lot in our area, and so we have the ability to pick and choose our favorites. Our MOST favorite has had the top spot since we moved to this state--ten years ago. Ryan was a year old, and we were just starting graduate school. I have so many fond memories of going there when Ryan was little, along with my friends and their little boys, who just happened to be the same age. After graduation, we moved just an hour away, so we've still been able to continue this much-loved tradition.

You'd think we would have picked our pumpkins by now, but my camera battery died at the pumpkin patch, and you all know I can't do anything unless I have my camera. :)

I guess we'll just have to go back!

{growing up}

When they first place that sweet baby in your arms, your heart is full of dreams for the future. You picture them saying "mama" for the first time, holding their hand as they learn to walk, the first day of kindergarten, their baptism day, becoming a teenager, going off to college, and then marrying and having children of their own. Then you look down at that precious baby, and it seems so far away, you just can't imagine it all.

Then you go home. You are so enraptured with your darling baby and so busy with all that life is, that the days go by quickly. Then those milestones are reached before the blink of an eye, and one day, you're looking at a young man.

.........

BLESSING



BAPTISM



ORDINATION




........

My parents are currently serving a mission, and were given permission by their mission president to visit us, so they could be present for Ryan's ordination. We were so glad! It was a wonderful day, and I know that none of us will never forget it.

My baby's growing up!

{half-marathon}

A few months ago, my life changed, when Erica suggested that we train for and run a half marathon. At first I thought she was totally crazy, and then after seeing the training schedule, I knew she was. I had been running for years, but never more than my usual 3-4 miles, and always just as a necessary form of exercise. I just couldn't imagine it. But, the idea took hold. I knew that it would it be a challenge, and the thought of be being able to accomplish something difficult was really appealing. So, I agreed.

It was one of the best decisions I ever made.

...........

The morning of the race came early. I think I was up every hour the night before, nervous that I wouldn't wake up to my alarm, and anxious for what inevitably would come. Some of my closest friends were also running that morning, and it was wonderful knowing that they would be there with me. We met in the lobby, then drove over together, so our families could meet us at the finish line. When we got to the car, we saw that it had been decorated by one our friend's husbands, and it was the perfect way to start the day.




At the start line, it still seemed very surreal. I wasn't really nervous, just anxious. I knew I had trained well, and that I was prepared, but it's amazing how the chip on your shoe and bib on your shirt can affect you.

Suddenly, we were moving, and the race was on.



I had been warned to not start too quickly--to stay within 10 seconds of my normal pace for the first part of the race, keep my adrenalin under control, and prevent hitting a huge wall later. So, I started out running what I seemed to be my regular pace. I didn't see a mile marker 1, but when I checked my watch at mile marker 2, I was running a little more than 1 mile per minute faster than I should be. So, I started running at what I thought was a slower pace, but by mile marker 4, and then 6, I was still maintaining that faster pace. On one hand, I was thrilled that I had just run that far at that speed, but I also knew that I had been warned for a reason.

It was a cold and very windy day, and by mile 7, it was about to take a turn for the worse. The course went right up to and along the shore of Lake Michigan, which was a beautiful sight. The lighthouses, white-capped waves, and sandy beaches were lovely to look at, but I would have enjoyed them a little more had the wind not been so fierce. It was blowing so hard that it was all I could do just to propel myself forward, and keep the sand out of eyes. It was a rough couple of miles, and by mile 9, I was tired. Really tired. I could also tell that running those first 6 miles so quickly was starting to affect me. At that point, I knew I just needed to keep running--no matter what. I also soon discovered that the description "flat course" is very subjective. It was a lot more hilly than I had expected, or trained for, and it was an added challenge the last few miles.

With about a half mile to go, and not much left in me, I looked up and saw Rick.I was so glad to see him! He started running with me, and it was just what I needed to get to the finish line.

Once I crossed, Ryan met me with Gatorade, water, and a big hug. I loved that he was so proud of me. It's been so important to me that my kids know that I did something hard--that I worked for it, put in the effort, and succeeded. I want to be that example to them, so that moment really meant a lot to me. My dad was able to come on this trip with us, then be right there at the finish too, and I wouldn't trade that for anything.

I made my way over to the rest of my family and friends, so I could help cheer the next of my friends to come across the finish line. When the last of us came around the bend, we all went out, linked arms, and ran with her to the end. It was one of the most amazing moments, and one I will never forget. We all worked so hard to get to to that point, and I was so proud of each one of them.



Crossing the finish line was indescribable. Running 13 miles is totally empowering.

I'm already planning the next one.

{week of firsts}

It's that time of year again! As a child, I loved school, and looked forward to the first day all summer. Even now, I get caught up in the excitement--buying supplies, deciding what to wear on the first day, choosing the "first day of school dinner", and learning about teachers and friends. Maybe it's because it goes along with my favorite season, but it's always a fun week at our house.

The girls started their second year of preschool, and have been itching to get back to see their teachers. We made new tote bags that they haven't stopped carrying around since, and it's never hard to get them motivated in the mornings to get ready. It's a coop preschool, so I also have the opportunity to spend time in the classroom with them once or twice a month. I love seeing them in that atmosphere--I feel like you can learn a lot about your child when you can view them in a different environment.

There is also an upside for me, too. For a few hours a week, I only have the boys home with me, and it gives me the chance to spend some time just with them. It also makes it a lot easier to run a few errands with two children, as opposed to four. Usually I just can't go during the day, but I might be able to this year!


It was also the first week of ballet. I'm not sure if they're more excited about the dancing, or the fact they get to wear a leotard, tights, and ballet shoes.




Ryanboy (Yes, I still call him that. I think he'll be 30 years old, and he will still be my Ryanboy.) started 6th grade, and he allowed me one picture before he left for school. Unfortunately, it turned out totally blurry, so I guess he lucked out. I guess you'll just have to take it from me...he looked pretty handsome!

P.S. One more important first...Jack Jack is now walking too! It didn't take him too long to catch up with his brother, and now with two little ones walking around, it's definitely time for some baby proofing!

{photo rights}

Motherhood should have certain rights that come along with the job. And one of them should be that we get to take as many pictures of our children as we want to, with their cooperation.

What do you think my chances are?

That's what I thought.

I think I make it more difficult for myself. I admit it. I have high expectations. And darnit, I want cute pictures of my kids for my walls, and for posterity! Not only do I want pictures of the kids individually, but then I have to have each set of twins together. And smiling. Then all 5 together. Preferably smiling, but at some point I'm happy just to have the fronts of their heads.

Well. I guess it's a good thing I like candid photos best of all.

...................

kate

emma

...................

jack




henry




P.S. Before you think I left Ryan out on purpose, I would have gladly included him, if any pictures were in existence. :)

{out of the mouths of babes}

Kids are hands down the best entertainment around. There really is nothing funnier than some of the things they say, and at our house, we love to laugh about them time and time again.

Right now, my girls are in the most hilarious phase. Seriously, they say something that cracks me up every day, which is good, because it makes it easier when they're naughty. :)

I have committed myself to writing them down, because as much as I think I'll remember, I never do. Here are a few of the most recent...

................

(as she's pulling and tugging at her pajama top)
Kate: I'm stretching these pajamas out, so I can wear them when I grow up.

...............

Me: How did that marker get on the door?
Emma: Something made me trip. That's how I got marker on the door.
Me: What made you trip?
Emma: Mr. Trip.

...............

Me: (talking to Ryan) I need you to get your Scout shirt so I can iron it before we leave.
Kate, to me: I didn't know you could iron.

Sassy Sue. In my defense, I DO know how to iron. I just don't get a lot of practice. :) Rick has been the chief iron-er in our house since we got married, and I don't think Kate has ever seen me iron!

...............

(trying to get her to try some bites of her dinner)
Kate: I will try it, if you give me 4 pennies out of your wallet.

If only she knew how tempted I was to accept her offer...it would have been worth every penny. Lol. Too bad I didn't want to set a precedent for bribery.

...............

(as I'm putting them to bed)
Emma: You sure are a busy mom. You just work, work, work, all day long. You must be ready to get your girlies settled down for the night.

How right you are, Miss Emma girl.

.................

Kate: I'm never getting married.
Me: Why not?
Kate: Because I do NOT want to kiss a boy.

Can we please remember this conversation when you're sixteen?

.................

{anniversary surprise}

Our "major" anniversaries have found us doing other major things---like moving, undergoing IVF, and having babies. Our time and money just had to go other places besides a trip, and that has always been okay with me. Not because I didn't want to go, but because those other things were more important, and I knew our time would come.

This year was proving to be the same. Rick's work schedule was busy, it was the peak week of my training runs, and school was starting. Add in two babies, plus three other kids, and the odds of us getting away were low.

Or so I thought.

-----------

Early last Friday morning, I was pulling into the garage after my long run, when I saw a little card tucked into the door leading into the house. I found it odd, and my mind started wondering which one of my friends had sneaked into my garage! When I got closer, I saw that it was a note from Rick, with instructions for me to be packed and ready by 2pm, and that everything had been taken care of--dinner, hotel, kids--it was all set.

Usually I'm the one that's doing most of the planning, and I love it so much that I was surprised to see how much I enjoyed just being able to not think about all the little details. Because of our very kind and generous friends, the kids were well taken care of, and I was really able to let go and enjoy myself.

The weekend was full of shopping, eating, and total relaxation. Thanks to a husband who thought of everything, and very sneaky (but wonderful) friends, it was perfect.

-------------

In honor of our anniversary, here are a few pics of the early years:
(oh, and don't mind the picture quality. These are pictures of pictures, taken from a scrapbook.)

At the zoo

Wearing suits, and on our way to work! Rick and I both worked in downtown Salt Lake City, for the same bank. Our offices were on different floors, but we were able to take breaks and lunch together. We loved it. This picture was taken at my parents' house, as we dropped Ryan off for the day.

Happy Graduation!

Ryan's blessing day

Meeting my sister at the airport, just home from her mission

Merry Christmas!

Happy Anniversary, babe.

{saying goodbye to summer}

Tell-tale signs that summer is on its way out...

• crisp morning air
• longing looks at the sweaters in my closet
• lingering over my soup recipes
• thinking about fall decorations a little too much
  
• imagining nights curled up around the fire, with a good book and cup of hot chocolate
• school starting, and getting back into a routine
  

Fall is my absolute favorite season, and I love everything about it.
As soon as September 1st hits, I'm ready for all things autumn.

• cider mills & pumpkin patches
• toasted pumpkin seeds
• brilliantly colored leaves
  
• comfort foods--creamy soups, hearty stews, baked goods, & delicious breads
• pumpkins on the porch
  
• Halloween costumes
• pumpkin carving
• cider & doughnuts
  
• cozy sweaters
• caramel apples
• nights by the fire
• family & friends

I can't wait!