Fear and Friendship

It's funny how answers to prayers don't always come the way we expect them to.

This fall, Bruce and I have been concerned about Sammy and Riley not getting along very well. Like, if one even touched the other there would be major screaming and fighting as a result. (Okay, I know this is somewhat normal for brothers--most of you remember the famous picture of Dan and Bruce. But that doesn't mean we approved or wanted them to keep up this behavior.) So, because we were frustrated, we prayed for help.

Slowly, things have been getting better, and it's mostly because Sammy is afraid. Very afraid. Of almost everything, including:
--Toys left on his bedroom floor at night
--Anything in his bed other than pillow and covers
--Being alone ANYWHERE for more than half a second (this makes bathroom time interesting)

It's this last item that has made him so dependent on Riley. Who will go in the bedroom with him to get another toy? Not mom! Who will go downstairs with him to put away the toys? Not dad! Riley, as much as he's been the picked on younger brother, is amazingly willing to be Sammy's companion. It's like Sammy realizes that Riley is more than competition for toys and attention, and Riley is happy to agree. They play computer together, run around together, and will now (occasionally) hug or sit close to each other. It is truly a miracle, for however long it lasts.

By the way, I am LOVING our new computer, if only because it came with a chess game pre-installed. Sammy can now play without bugging a grown-up to play with him, and better yet, Riley can play against Sammy because the computer shows him which moves are allowed. Score one for technology!!!

My favorite part of Christmas

This is the best Sunday of the year, and I have to try to capture the moment so it will last a little longer for me. All around the world, congregations are sharing a Christmas program for their services today. Especially in the LDS Church, these programs are very similar, with a bunch of music (often the same favorite Christmas hymns) and some narrative or testimony in between songs.

Despite the predictability of it all, I love it. There is such comfort in tradition. And especially, for me at least, such power in the music, even the same music I've been hearing my whole life.

I am so blessed right now to be our ward choir director. It has been a challenge, a learning experience, and often a frustration. It's not the easiest calling, especially at this point in my life with three young and energetic boys. (By the way, Bruce is an amazing support, and manages not only to sing with the choir, but keep the boys under control, carry around my box of music, and serve up my freshly baked cinnamon rolls to choir members.)

Today the choir sang, and it was truly a choir of angels. We have been preparing for months and have a fairly good choir. But today (as so often happens), they were a different group. Every song was perfectly sung, and even better, they meant every word and offered it as their collective testimony to the congregation. Music can touch my heart like nothing else I have experienced, but only now and then. We have practiced so much that I don't usually think about the words or enjoy the music.

Today I was touched by the Spirit and by the service these singers have given to worship their God. Especially I was overcome when the choir sang "O Come, All Ye Faithful" along with the congregation. It's not my favorite Christmas hymn and I wasn't expecting it to be so powerfully moving. But the incredible organ accompaniment, our choir's angelic descant, and the sight of a few hundred friends singing praise to Jesus Christ made me tremble and get teary-eyed. I was reminded what this entire season is about during the last verse of the hymn. I wish you could have been there too, because the words alone can't quite convey my testimony of this:

Yea, Lord, we greet thee, born this happy morning;
Jesus to thee be all glory giv'n.
Son of the Father, now in flesh appearing;
Oh come let us adore Him, Christ, the Lord.

May we adore Him and glorify Him in all we do this Christmas season and throughout our lives, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

Zeke the Beloved

Happy birthday to my not-so-little baby Zeke!

We are so amazed at how fast the past year has flown by. Zeke just fit himself right into our little family, and life never really slowed down much. Zeke's birthday was an example of how crazy things can be. We were booked solid with Christmas activities for 3 or 4 days before and after his birthday last week. So, we settled for a lunchtime cake party the day after. Even though it wasn't his true birthday, we figure he's lucky to have gotten anything.

And boy, did he enjoy it! What one-year-old doesn't love being set in front of an entire chocolate cake, and having a roomful of people cheer with every bite (and every frosting glob in the hair)? He even got to throw the leftovers on the floor and we cheered that on, too. Of course, older cousin Tate showed him how to REALLY make a mess with the chocolate frosting--Zeke has much to learn from his more experienced friend. Then a birthday bath, and time for presents (with five little boys helping him "play" with the new toys). We're so glad Dan & Dee & kids, and Leah, could come. We missed the rest of you. But Zeke didn't--fewer people means more cake for him!

The Big Secret

I hesitate to reveal this one. You're all going to rush out tonight to try to replicate my results. Beware--the universe is fickle. You never know just how your wishes will be granted. In my case, I would not choose to have this experience again, but I might as well enjoy the results.

Here is my secret to Holiday Season Weight-Loss. That's correct, not just maintaining your weight, but actually losing those excess pounds during the yummiest bake-fest time of year. It's a simple process, with just two steps. But beware, it's not fun.

First, get strep throat. It's helpful to get it a few days before Thanksgiving (like Monday), and not be sure if that's what it is. So don't go to the doctor until the day after Thanksgiving. By the time you feel well enough to down anything other than cough drops and herbal tea, the really good leftovers will all be gone and you'll be lucky to get some mashed potatoes (no gravy) or maybe cranberry sauce, if you're lucky. This is especially helpful if your Thanksgiving menu includes 13 homemade pies.

Second, it's okay to splurge and eat some treats for a few days, especially if that time frame includes your one-year-old's first birthday cake, filled with amazing egg-nog pudding. Because (and this is where you really shed the pounds) you will then come down with the stomach flu for a full 24 hours. Yup. Like I said, not for the faint-hearted, but very effective. I have dropped a full seven pounds in the past two weeks.

Now I can make it up by indulging in all those Christmas cookies coming our way. That is, if I have any room left after all those Saltines I've been noshing on all day.

OH so clean!!!

This is nothing but a bit of excitement because today we cleaned the garage!!! I longed for a garage for the first five years of married life, then when I finally got one we just filled it up with junk! Okay, it wasn't that bad. We could still park two cars in it, but it was a mess.

Today we de-junked, swept, organized, bought pegboard and hooks, organized some more, and swept again. It feels great! I'm even building a little "mudroom" area, since we don't really have a good place for all that wet winter gear inside. So I'm patting myself on the back. You can feel free to do so as well! Doesn't it look gorgeous???

Okay, maybe that garage is still in my dreams. But we'll get there before long!

Tagged

I've been tagged. I'm supposed to post the fourth picture in my fourth album (I think). Not sure exactly what that means, or if it means digital or real photos. I chose the easy route. Here's the shot:That's Sammy pretending to be asleep in Riley's carseat. Sammy was about 2 at the time and had to pretend to be a baby again. Oh wait, he still does that now too!



I tag Phame, Deanne, Tricia S., and Lindsay!

Broc-O-Mama

I'm not surprised about the election results. I'm not overly excited or disappointed. I don't think either presidential candidate really had very many good answers. But in the morning, I will have to confront both sides of the political spectrum.

I mean Sammy and Riley.

They took an interest in politics only because they liked saying "Barack Obama," which almost instantly morphed into "Broc-O-Mama" (me), and several other goofy variations. But the boys do recognize his name on the radio.

Then I took the whole family with me to vote last week, where Sammy very loudly proclaimed that he wanted the "white guy" to win. "Do you mean the man with the white hair?" I asked, feeling condemned as a racist (by my predominantly white fellow voters, go figure). "No, the man with the white face," he replied. No reason that he could specify, though.

Then today, Riley came home with a preschool paper about voting, the president, and the two candidates. I noticed he had marked his "vote" for Barack Obama. He couldn't say why either, so I think it goes back to the "Broc-O-Mama" thing (Riley likes funny words). All he knew was that he wanted Obama to live in the big white house, not McCain. And he called them by their last names, for all the world sounding like a seasoned reporter.

All I want is for my two little boys not to bicker in the morning or taunt each other over the outcome of the election. And I guess it would be nice if the rest of the country wouldn't either!

Where did my little baby go?

Zeke walks!

I've been meaning to post for over a week now. I don't even remember the exact day when Zeke took his first steps (I think it was three the first time we knew they were intended). Does that make me a bad mom? But this weekend he has progressed rapidly from three to who knows how many. He can walk several feet across the room, but only until he's within "diving distance." He's pretty perceptive about just how close he has to be to Mom or Dad to safely tip himself over into our arms. He has tried this once or twice on Sammy and Riley, with disastrous results. Now he only rarely dares walk toward them. (In fact, he's developing a healthy fear of these two, for as much "love" as they give him.)

Anyway, WOOHOO for Zeke!!!!

Happy Costume Month!

Isn't it great that holidays last so much longer than they used to when we were kids? I mean, I got to dress up on Halloween Day. Maybe we had a party at church a few days before. But now, wow, we've been dressing up all month!

Deanne hosted a fabulous kids-only Halloween party two weeks ago. Last weekend she and Dan followed up with another party, this time for adults. This weekend we got to attend our ward Halloween party (where Bruce and I WON THE COSTUME CONTEST!!!). And there is no school on Halloween Day this year, so classroom parties for both boys will be on Thursday.

That's four, yes, FOUR occasions to dress up before Halloween Day. And of course, the boys will spend all day in costume on Friday. I have had a blast with all the dress-up, and even though I'm finally getting a little tired of it, at least I feel like we're getting our money's worth out of the costumes. Truly, we always do, since the boys wear costumes year round.

I just have to mention that I love ward Halloween parties, except for our ward being a little less than spirited about it. (C'mon, grown-ups, how hard is it to throw on a wig and a goofy shirt to pass as a costume? Lighten up!) What I love is that THEY ARE ALWAYS THE SAME!!! Chili and doughnuts for dinner--check! Trick or treating, since we all know the kids never get enough candy this time of year---check! Lots of chaos as children run up and down the halls and plow through the crowd in the gym--check! And my personal favorite: local band playing the same selection of oldies with the volume cranked up so high that all conversation ceases and young children cry--check!

I really do love the band thing. Bruce and I danced, even though no one else did. Of course, that makes sense because no one else dressed up either. (Okay, a few of you did.) I would love to hear if any of you have EVER had a ward Halloween party that was different from this--I can't imagine that happening, but maybe I'm wrong.

Finally, look at my amazing hair! Thanks to my friend Annie for making my way-too-short hair look like a poofy, sleek, Wilma Flintstone up-do. Maybe I was meant to be a redhead!

Domestic Diva

Sometimes it surprises me how superficial I am. The dumbest little things can motivate me. For instance, my new project: a vintage "church ladies" apron that makes me feel like a sassy domestic diva.

My house (and life) was in massive disarray after last week's bout with being bedridden. Okay, I can't blame it on the illness because the house has been that way for months. It bothers me a little, but I deal with it.

Then on Tuesday, I finally found the time and energy to start a new project, the apron of my housewifely dreams. Once I started, I neglected just about everything else to finish sewing it (yes, including my children). Despite my friend's promise that it would take only an hour or so to make the apron, I was up until almost midnight. But it was worth every minute! Isn't it darling?

And now, every time I put it on, I channel my inner June Cleaver. Wow, amazing dinner and clean kitchen three nights in a row? Toys sorted and put away neatly? Fresh homemade cinnamon swirl bread (low-fat and low-sugar)? Floor mopped? Thank you, Apron of Action.

You can be expecting our new action figure, apron-wearing SuperMom, in stores in time for Christmas. Vacuum and homemade bread sold separately.

Modern Medicine

If it weren't for modern medicine, I'd be in really bad shape. I guess a lot of us can say that. Today I am recovering from my fifth bout of mastitis (first time with Zeke, but I've had it a bunch with the other boys).

In case you've never had it (you probably haven't), it's a nursing mom infection and it results in soreness, fever, chills, aches, headaches, weakness. Fun! Luckily I know to go right to the doctor where I get a shot and some antibiotic pills, and I'm usually okay within a day or so. And even more luckily, my wonderful in-laws came and watched my children for several hours today (and drove me to the doctor) because Bruce couldn't get away from work. Thank you thank you thank you!

So I'm glad I didn't end up with a large abscess and a two-week hospital stay from all this, like a friend of mine did. I'm SO grateful for antibiotics, even though I hate shots, because this infection can get nasty. (I wonder how many women have died through the ages from something this minor.) And I'm grateful for TV, which is a wonderful babysitter on days like today, no matter what the experts say.

And there are perks of being sick. How often do I just sit on the floor and play puzzles with my kids for an hour? Or read to them all afternoon? (Okay, I'm a little better at that one.) I used to spend a lot more time playing with them, but today I had to do it because they were crazy bored and I didn't have energy for much else. I guess it's a good reminder to do those things, because we all had a great time, even Zeke!

I've been tagged!!!

Thank goodness it wasn't the kind where I have to take photos of what my house looks like this very minute. This is not a good week for that!

3 Names You Go By:
Christy, Mama, "Waa-aa-aah!!"

3 Restaurants That I Love:
The Salmon Cooker
Any great Thai Place
The Sanitary Tortilla Factory (Gone!)

3 Trips To Plan on this Year!
LaVell Edwards Stadium
Mexico!!!
The Funny Farm

3 Things You Want Badly!
Vosges Haut-Chocolat
Sleep
A presidential candidate I actually support

3 People Who Will Do This!
The three people I tag!!!!!!!!!!!!

3 Pets I Have/Had
Two goldfish-Goldie and Bronzie
Betta fish-Ruby
Dog-Taffy

3 Things You Did Yesterday!
Went to the pumpkin patch
Made pumpkin bread
Took a nap

3 Things You Ate Today!
Pumpkin bread
Homemade whole-wheat bread
Yogurt
(No chocolate? What's wrong with me?)

3 Things You Plan on Doing Tomorrow!
Going to a Halloween Party
Grocery shopping
Trimming Riley's fingernails

3 Favorite Holidays

Groundhog Day

Valentine's Day
My birthday

3 Favorite Drinks
Water
Egg Nog from Smith Brothers Dairy
Mayan Cocoa Spice Herbal Tea

Do people actually do this when they're tagged? We'll find out! Now it's your turn:
Deanne, Lisa, Mary

Have kids, WON'T travel!

I'm not leaving the house again for a long time. At least, not to go any farther than the grocery store.

We went to Cedar City with Bruce this weekend so the kids could enjoy the hotel beds, indoor pool, and free hot breakfast. It's their favorite kind of vacation and it's relatively cheap. But Zeke was just finishing cutting his second tooth (came through Sunday!). The kids were wired, a little rude, and unbelievably pugnacious (they usually travel so well, what happened?).

Oh, and the rental car we drove had brakes that were completely shot! We are wondering how this escaped the notice of the people in charge of maintenance. I took it to a shop in town while Bruce was in his meeting. I expected a quick fix or maybe some minor problem that could be taken care of later. No luck! And they couldn't get the part in until the next day. SO. Three boys and me waiting in Big-O for three hours until Bruce got a car from another company that would fit all the car seats. Luckily, Big-O had satellite TV (cartoons!), candy machines, grubby floors for Zeke to crawl on, and an ice pack in the first-aid kit for Riley's large head wound. (Note: dirty, sticky floors are still too slippery for three-year-olds to run around on.)

Four hours and a few spankings later, we made it home, and home we'll stay!

Not for the faint-hearted (really, beware!)

It's really all my fault. Bruce and I admitted, out loud, that we were planning to attend the temple this afternoon. It's been a long time. In our defense, we had to do so because we needed to get someone to watch the kids.

In case you were wondering, no, we didn't make it there.

Bruce had to do some training in Provo for work today, so we loaded up the whole family and pulled out of here at about 7:45. A few minutes late, but not bad considering Sammy's tantrum (didn't want to miss kindergarten). Eerily, there were no major traffic problems. I just thought we were lucky. But by the time we were in Bountiful, we had to stop for a potty break. Still, we made good time to Provo, and that's where things began to go sour. Bruce stopped at a store, and Riley had to go for potty break #2--his face was pale, which was a sure sign of gastrointestinal distress. Then, we barely made it to Bruce's destination in time to rush white-faced Riley inside for potty break #3. Then on to my friend Emily's house, with a detour for potty break #4, and another dash inside her house for potty break #5. Poor Riley.

He felt better for awhile, so we had a great time visiting Emily and her kids. Then we met my friend Megan for lunch. Our mildly bad day started its crash landing here. Riley filled up on chips and chocolate milk. Meanwhile, Zeke sat happily banging on the floor-to-ceiling window while we ate. Too bad none of us noticed the hornet crawling on the glass, trying to figure out how to get outside. Oh, wait, Zeke noticed it. We think he tried to grab it (none of us saw this happen) and it stung him on the thumb. Thats right, my poor baby boy! He went berserk. I calmly gave him Tylenol and a binky while requesting that Bruce KILL THE EVIL INSECT!!! He finally fell asleep. Poor Megan, between that and our other energetic kids, she may never go out in public with us again. Thanks for putting up with us!

Riley turned pale again on the way home. Luckily, it was right by Ikea, and I had wanted to stop there anyway. (Potty break #6) Yeah, we made it to the (very lovely) family bathroom just in time. Then he got sick all over his pants. The shoes survived. It took us a long time to clean up, but he felt GREAT by the time we were done, and he got to walk out in shirt, shoes, and a too-small diaper borrowed from Zeke. Meanwhile, I finally got to the Christmas section to buy the Scandinavian straw tree ornaments I've been trying to get for the past four years. Wouldn't you know, for some unknown reason, this year they decided to dye the straw ORANGE and RED!! What were they thinking? Seriously, I know they're Swedish, but these are BEYOND UGLY!!! What was wrong with the old traditional ornaments? They sell out every year in just a few days--PEOPLE LIKED THEM. This was the final STRAW for me. I bought them anyway because I was desperate, but now I have to return them because they're even uglier now than in the store.

I'm done complaining. We stopped to visit my midwife's new birth center and it was beautiful--and Riley got to have potty break #7. The rest of the ride home was uneventful, except for Sammy needing a potty break (#8) when we were 5 minutes away from our house. We made him wait. At home, I promptly called the hair salon and scheduled an appointment for an escape, I mean, haircut tomorrow.

By the way, everyone was really cheerful today. At least we received that blessing, so other than being a little tired (and having some laundry to do) we are none the worse for the wear today. Zeke's thumb is still swollen but he's not in pain. Riley feels great. Sammy has gotten some extra attention for putting up with everyone else's craziness so well. Now if only the football game turns out the right way tonight...

The lights are on and someone's home!

More about Zeke. What can I say, I just really love this stage of baby development. (Okay, I love most stages. Except 2-year-olds, sometimes.)

About a month ago I was commenting to Deanne that Tate has crossed that threshold of understanding--the one where he's figured out he's in this great big world and there's stuff to learn and do. It felt like Zeke would never get there (because 2 1/2 months is like being years older in babydom).

And now, Zeke has arrived!

It's not that there's one moment when it clicked and he went from infant to older baby. He's been sitting up, crawling, even cruising for awhile, and gradually understanding more. But today, he was turning pages in a book--he understood that that's just what you do with a book. He was pointing at things (with one pudgy little finger--such a grown-up gesture!) and imitating my sounds. "Tat tat tat" he kept saying; he was fascinated by the cat picture. He gets that there are words, and that they relate to things. Language, yeah, I guess it's no surprise that that's part of the whole understanding thing.

But that's not all. Zeke has never been a cuddly child. He likes to be held, but not hugged. Yet recently, he's started giving hugs. He leans in, and he understands it's a nice thing to do to someone. (He pulls away if I try to hold him too long. There are still limits.) He's showing affection! And instead of just having this general reaction of, "Mom's there, she'd better hold me," he seems to get the nuances of being held. As we were looking at the picture book, we were kind of snuggling. He seemed happy. But then he pulled himself to standing, stepped closer to me, and sat right on my lap. He wanted to be on my lap, not just next to me!

Sorry if that seems very minor to you, but it really warms this mother's heart.

Anyway, I guess what it all boils down to is that Zeke is now consciously exploring his little world. He's no longer just reacting to a bunch of random experiences that happen in his life; now he's putting them all together and starting to assign some order and meaning to things. He's learning, he's taking the initiative to act and find things out. He's communicating what he wants instead of just crying because he's generally unhappy, and he's understanding that we communicate to him as well. I love being his mom and being there for all these little steps he's making in his life's journey; I know there are many more ahead (and that they will be vastly different than these baby steps). What a miracle that we are programmed to figure so much out in such a short time. I feel the hand of God in my life more through my children than any other way, and I am so grateful.

First Tooth, First Word

After the whole crawling/walking thing, I think the biggest baby milestone for me might be cutting those first teeth. It just really changes that sweet little baby face into a mischievous little boy face. Cute, but not quite so innocent.

Yesterday, Zeke's first tooth finally broke through his gums, and his second is following close behind. This is bittersweet for me. He has been bothered by the teething lately, and I'm glad it's getting a little better (until the next tooth comes!). It's good that he'll be able to eat more solid foods eventually (or should I just nurse him forever?). But he's really not going to be a baby much longer, so I'm holding on to every minute I can. All the minutes when he's not crawling or cruising away from me, that is. Good thing he's more willing to snuggle when teething makes him feel crummy.

Yesterday I also realized he's been saying his first word, though you might disagree. He can say "shoe" by putting his lips together and blowing. It sounds more like "bpooh," with a soft "bp" at the beginning, not harsh. But he's definitely imitating what I say and referring to his shoe. Woohoo! I do so love language development. I guess that goes right along with books about punctuation.

Running a race and surviving a marathon

Yesterday I ran my first 5k since becoming a mom (that's three little boys ago). In fact, I haven't really been a runner since I got married, thanks to Bruce's bum knee and my need for external motivation. Anyway, I ran the race with my sister-in-law, Leah, and can proudly say we finished strong. Now I've made a list of future running goals for us (better time, harder races, etc.) which has her running away from me. But I'm excited and for the first time ever I'm not going to use winter as an excuse to stop exercising.

We'll see about that come the first icy December morning I meet.

Then Bruce and I began our relay marathon--the true test of endurance. I got home from running to find the three T's (Tracen, Tyler, and Tate) playing happily/noisily/messily with our kids. Dan and Dee were in Provo for the (yawn) BYU shut-out. The boys were pretty good all afternoon. Then Bruce left to go watch the game on TV just before my friend dropped off her two youngest for me to watch for a few hours. That is eight kids (three under 1 year), and what's more, SEVEN BOYS and one little girl. We had a fun time for awhile. The kids were all pretty well-behaved, but it was still chaotic.

Blessings be on Dan and Dee (and Leo) for leaving the (yawn) game early and arriving just before I started feeding all the kids dinner. (They beat Bruce back home.) Thanks, Deanne, for helping get them all fed and happy. We were sad to say goodbye to your boys, but it was sure quiet when you left! Not too much later, the other two kids left and we all settled down.

I've just figured out why I enjoy running so much more now than when I was single. It is FAR EASIER than taking care of kids!

The peaches...

And the cruisin' toddler...

Latest Exploits, Late Show-Style

I've been too busy (or something) to update regularly. Sorry you've missed all the fabulous posts I have composed in my mind. This will have to do. Here are the top ten most important, time-consuming, and/or tasty events that have occured in our lives lately. As always, we like to offer samples of the tasty things to anyone who dares come around for a visit.





10. Riley started preschool. This happened way back in August. He loves it and is making lots of new friends. He wishes it were every day instead of two days a week.





9. We went to Lagoon. We couldn't afford Disneyland (or the gas to get there), and the kids couldn't tell the difference. We went with Dan and Dee and their three boys. Everyone had a great time, even Sammy, who cried and screamed on his first ride (a scary free-fall type, but for little kids) and loved that same ride by the end of the day. We even wished we could have stayed an hour or two more.





8. Zeke started crawling (all over, not just a few inches). Of course, by now, just a few weeks later, he has moved on to pulling himself up to standing using anything over three inches tall, and he cruises around the house faster than I can keep track of him. We don't think he'll take long to start walking.





7. We went camping at Capitol Reef. Camping is so much fun with people who are good at it. Thanks to Uncle Dave, Aunt Marie, Uncle Doug, and their families. We're so glad Torrey and Heather came with Elaina, who somehow loved playing with our crazy boys. Sammy survived a weekend of stormy skies and thunderstorms (he's a bit scared of them). And of course, next time we go hiking through a river we're bringing water shoes!





6. Sammy started kindergarten. He loves his teacher and classmates, has learned several goofy songs, and usually likes recess (except when it's cloudy and there might be lightning). But his favorite part is the bus ride to school. He and his friend have started taking turns for the window seat. And that's about all he'll tell me.





5. I built the world's most beautiful baby gate. Okay, you might not think so. But it keeps my beautiful baby from falling head over heels down the stairs, and it didn't require drilling large holes in the stair railing. I did it all myself, except for sawing the wood (thanks Bruce!).





4. Bruce successfully ran his second CFC golf tournament. His team didn't win, but they raised lots of money for the campaign and got to eat some dang good cookies at the same time. Next year, I hope he'll be able to get home a little earlier.





3. I made oodles of blackberry jam and Mom's amazing cupcakes. I won't list all my latest culinary exploits, but these are two of my favorites. I now have apricot and blackberry jam stockpiled for the next several years, and tomorrow I'll be making some blueberry jam too. The cheesecake-filled lime cupcakes wowed the Utah crowd (thanks Mom!), and next week it's on to Ginger-Lime Cheesecake with Mango-Lime Salsa (possibly my all-time favorite).





2. We've lost almost 90 pounds!!! When I say "we," I mean the biggest losers, a.k.a. Dan, Dee, Leah, Leo, Tricia, Bruce, and me. Thanks to Bruce's blog (and a whole lot of smack talk), we've lost a lot of weight since last April. We even hope to keep the damage down over the holiday season if we keep up the hard work. All this despite my cooking habits (see #3) and the other amazing cooks in the family (trip to Albuquerque, Deanne's cookies, Leah's pies, etc.).





1. My peach trees are working!!!! This is my current excitement. We've gotten 12 peaches from our two peach trees this year, and they're delicious! (I've eaten one already.) They will soon be a pie or cobbler or something. They're definitely growing well, and I hope to have an even better crop next year--perhaps enough to make a pie for me and one to share! Aren't they beautiful?

Day of (un?)rest

Normally, I would not say it's restful to wake up before 6 on a Sunday morning, get dressed, then have my 3-year-old come in the room with white lips and an upset stomach. It's not usually good when he then asks for a bowl of cereal even though I know he will be losing said cereal within minutes of eating it. It's especially not a good thing if it's a Sunday when I am supposed to both teach the lesson in Relief Society, and conduct my first choir rehearsal in two months right after church. To add to the confusion, I had a house full of visiting in-laws, who were trying to get ready for church and pack up their stuff to leave for home right afterward.

But I have a fabulous husband who cleaned up Riley's mess on the floor, the bucket, the bathtub, and changed the sheets TWICE, and comforted the poor sick kid. I have kind, self-sufficient relatives who took care of their own needs and didn't mind getting their own breakfasts. I have a great Relief Society whose members like to comment a lot during lessons. And I have an easygoing choir, half of whom actually showed up (mixed blessing there).

Best of all, all of this Sunday-morning craziness was a welcome change after a week spent going from one family gathering to the next. We had a barbecue with Kurt & Kara, Dan & Dee, Kathryn and Kent, and all the kids going crazy. We went swimming with the herd of kids. We had a family dinner to welcome Leo and Tricia home. We had a family breakfast just for fun. Bruce and I had six kids under 6 sleep over here (plus two over six and their parents). We took all the kids to the park. We played cards. I gave up sweeping the floor becuase of all the kids kids kids! And to top it all off, Zeke started crawling on Sunday morning!

So you can see how maybe teaching a lesson and conducting a choir pale in comparison to all that stress. We had tons of fun, but I'm happy to be back to work and the normal routine. The only problem is, work is starting to seem stressful again. Could you all please visit (at the same time) every week or two so I can keep my stress level in perspective?

Future spelling bee champ?

If you don't like hearing proud mamas brag about their brilliant kids, watch out!

Last week sometime, S and R were coloring and Riley showed me a piece of paper on which he'd neatly written "i-L-E-Y." I was excited, but I just helped him write his "R" and then forgot about it. Until Friday.

We were outside coloring with chalk and he excitedly showed me the "R" he had drawn all by himself. Then he wrote the rest of his name. Every letter got a little bigger than the last, but other than that they were beautifully formed--as nice as Sammy's letters, and he's been working on them for a year and a half! And mind you, he was writing with chalk on concrete; not the easiest thing. Even I'm a little messy in that medium.

So here comes the impressive part. He and I were sitting down and I was showing him a few tricks to make it easier to write some letters. Then he turns and writes, "Y-E-L-I-R." He didn't say, "There's my name backwards!" Just, "There's my name." Now, he didn't write it backwards, starting with the "R." He wrote it left to right starting with the "Y," without thinking about it, like spelling a word backwards is no harder than spelling it the regular way. He wrote his name and Tyler's name a few times more, once backwards.

The kid is a genius, I tell you! I have been thinking lately that it's time to start teaching him to trace letters and figure out what sounds they make. Too late for that! Not only can he write, he's got this logical little brain that lets him spell and write backward and forward interchangably.

I adore babies and toddlers and I miss that part of childhood when it's gone. So it's a fabulous thing that we get the excitement of learning and growing up all over again with these little kids. Baby Riley is gone, but now I get to see his unique personality and gifts and talents develop in amazing ways. On to the next discovery!

Creepy crawlies

I'm a daydreamer. One of my biggest daydreams of the past several years has been to move toward a more rural lifestyle. You know, chickens and maybe a goat in the backyard, a really big garden (like, enough to sell the extra at a roadside stand, or at least give it away), big canning parties at harvest time. Life away from the suburbs (but not TOO far from Costco).

But let's face it. I'm a wimp.

There is a really HUGE spider, or maybe more than one, that lives in the window well right next to my computer. It was stuck between screen and window for a few days, and I sat staring at it for minutes at a time. Revulsion? Horror? Yes. But could I open the window to kill it? No. Bruce's job. I shriek and run when a yellowjacket surprises me in the garden. In fact, I only weed before 9 a.m., partly because of the heat and partly because of the bees.

In reality, my imagination is just too good. Or my paranoia. Last week I went to pick apricots at a u-pick place nearby. Not too far from the parking lot where Dan saw a rattler last month (just after our kids had been tramping through the weeds, mind you). So snakes had been on my mind all day as I psyched myself up to go. Alone. Luckily there was a tough-looking guy in military gear picking apricots at the same time. I traipsed across the open field to where the best fruit was. Two minutes later, he was done and turned back. I was alone, picking fruit, on a hot and sunny afternoon. I heard a noise from about 50 feet east. Stop. Again. Stop. I'm not sure if it was a rattlesnake, but it was a distinct possibility. Then the same noise from 50 feet west. Stop. Again. I climbed up the ladder and tried to pick more fruit--the apricots were GREAT on this tree. A few more rattling noises, from both sides.

I left the tree. I traipsed back across the field (luckily, away from the unidentified noises). The owner of the trees said, "Is that all you got?" I made some excuse (remember, I had left the trees with the best fruit) and headed north, past the little house and garden, to some other trees with smaller fruit, not as ripe. I heard no rattling noises. I paid and went home, happy to be alive.

So how would I do on a farm? Maybe okay, if I had a gun on me at all times (and could keep my wits about me enough to aim at the snake). Maybe not. But even here in the suburbs, nature sometimes gets a little too creepy for me. For now, I'll keep getting my eggs and goat cheese from the store, and buy my fruit for canning from someone else's roadside stand.

Have you done any good....? YES!

I learned an important lesson recently: you never know how much of an impact you can have on the lives of others. For years I've lived in self-doubt about my mission experience. Most of you have heard the story about how I struggled to even make it into the mission field, and how that experience itself helped me gain a testimony of prayer, fasting and the Book of Mormon. Even so, the mission itself was difficult, with hours of tracting and street contacting, a lot of rejection and little success... or so I thought.

At the end of my mission, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to teach and help baptize a single-mother family from Peru -- Blanca Luz Vasquez and her three sons, Carlos, Norman and Manuel. We taught them by reading the discussions in Spanish (as best I could) and then discussing the principles in Norwegian. We baptized them just a few weeks before I left the mission, and in spite of good intentions to stay in contact, I lost contact with them shortly after coming home. This was mostly my fault for not writing more frequently and allowing school and social life to dominate my thoughts. Over the years I thought about the Vasquez family often, and occasionally prayed for them and felt guilty for losing touch, but guilt was as far as I got.

When a young man from our ward was called to Norway on his mission last year, I was mildly interested but soon forgot about him. As it happens, however, his dad, Mike Leatham, owns a local company that United Way frequently does business with, and during a meeting with him recently he talked about his son Tanner and what a good experience he's having. I asked where he was serving, and Mike said, "He's in Oslo right now." When I got back to work later, Mike had forwarded his son's latest email and I took the opportunity to send Elder Leatham a letter of encouragement, a few words in Norwegian, and a request that he look up "Blanca Vasquez." To be perfectly honest, I was not confident he would even be able to find her, much less report on her activity in the church. A week later I received a letter from "Eldste Leatham." He didn't have to look -- he knew Blanca very well because not only was she active in the church but she often helped the missionaries when they had Spanish-speaking investigators. Shortly afterward he called Blanca on the telephone to report that he had received a letter from the returned missionary who had taught her the gospel, and the next thing I knew my mobile phone was ringing with an "unknown caller" as we shopped at a Ross store in Albuquerque. I'm not sure what the other shoppers thought about the weird guy speaking excitedly in some strange language and trying to choke back tears in the middle of the store, but it was an incredibly happy moment in my life.

I've already traded several emails with Blanca and even added her as a friend on Facebook! Her spoken Norwegian is excellent, she has a full-time job as a "health secretary" at a local hospital, she has been to the temple and she is faithful in the church. Sadly, her sons are not active, but she maintains good relationships with them and their girlfriends, and it sounds like they are not unfriendly toward the church. Tonight I invited each of them to be my Facebook friends as well, and hopefully they'll add me. Of course, Blanca is not without trials -- she worries about her boys and about her sick father, and sometimes she has problems at work. But she told me how good Heavenly Father has been to her and that she has felt His love for her in life. She immediately forgave me for my lack of contact and made it sound like talking to me again was an answer to prayer... which I found extraordinarily humbling. (Let's be frank - a conversation with me has rarely, if ever, been an answer to anyone's prayer!)

I'm just so grateful to know I've made a small difference in someone's life, and that my mission was worth every minute of difficulty and frustration. The Lord said, "from small things proceedeth that which is great" and "the weak and simple" would proclaim His message. I feel like the "weak and simple" part definitely applies to me, and I'm grateful and happy I was allowed to play a small role for good. So don't listen to the voice that tries to tell you that nothing you do makes any difference, or that your feeble efforts don't matter to anyone. They matter. You matter. You make a positive impact in the world every time you try.

Sorry -- I know this probably comes across as preachy, but it's how I feel right now.

Home again, home again, jiggity jig

I'm in post-vacation mode. You know, glad to be home, until I realize I have two weeks' worth of laundry to do, the kids have "helped" with the unpacking, there's no food in the house, and I'm too tired to do anything. So, I blog.

We had a great vacation to New Mexico. It doesn't always seem like a vacation to spend 11 hours in the car each way, with crying kids (no Zeke does NOT sleep well in the car), but it was worth the drive. My good friend Megan got married, which meant all her sisters AND Amy Chaston were in town for the event--it was quite the girl party when we got together. Plus, what could be more fun than frosting two hundred cupcakes and at least that many brownies, and getting to wear a white apron for the wedding reception?

Sammy and Riley loved Grandma and Grandpa's house: foosball, movies galore, pancakes for breakfast, their own bedroom with "new" toys, a treasure box that provided a treat every day, and a big basement where parents rarely ventured. I'm not sure why we bothered going swimming or to the museum--they had more fun staying home. However, the fishing trip with Grandpa was well worth the time and money, even considering that the four fish they caught tasted, well, exactly like mud. Sammy said it was the most delicious fish he'd ever eaten, so the rest of us let him eat it. Riley liked fishing for the first 10 or 15 minutes, then he discovered the snacks we had brought. Anyway, huge thanks to two grandparents who know how to entertain little boys. And thanks to Melissa, who took care of them a ton as well.

Then there was Zeke, who was teething or something half the time we were there. Grandma and Grandpa must think he's a fussy baby, which he's really not. He didn't even sleep through the night most of the time. But he's back to normal now that we're home. He did manage a few big grins on the trip, though (see the slideshow).

Don't you wish you'd been there?

More than just surviving!

I usually go into survival mode when Bruce is gone--extra movies for the kids, no cleaning the house, early bedtimes all around (well, not for me). I thought this trip would be extra hard since he's off in Wyoming with nary a cell phone in sight. I can't even unload on him at the end of each day.

But the past few days I've been reading a horribly predictable, extra-cheesy romance novel (published by Deseret Book, which gives you an idea). Don't ask why. Anyway, there are two single parents who, during their dating "crisis" and all their other stresses (including bratty kids), somehow manage to be perfect parents. Not a grumpy word. Always saying the right thing. Not clueless about why their perfect children are suddenly slamming doors, but able to let the kids work it out with just the right amount of help. You get the picture. Yeah, fake.

Normally, that would bother me more than a Hannah Montana TV marathon. But I guess it's rubbed off a little. I've never been so cheerful on five hours of sleep and no husband for three more days! I preempted a few potential fights and tantrums today. Kept my patience while watching my friend's kids. Surprised Riley by saying "yes" when he asked for pancakes for dinner, and "yes" again when he pulled out the chocolate chips and asked to put those IN the pancakes (you should have seen the disbelief on his face!). Gave the kids an EXTRA bedtime story, despite Zeke loudly clamoring for food and bed too.

Sorry, I'm not bragging. Heck, I'm too embarrased about the lame book to even tell you what it's called. But if reading about two (fictional, of course) perfect parents can make me a better one, even while Bruce is out of town, I might just struggle through a few more trite, predictable books. At least it's slightly more interesting than parenting books, which just depress me and make me feel like a failure. In the meantime, does anyone know any worthwhile books about really great parents? Probably not--you can have a good novel or perfect characters, but not both.

Happy Hot Rockin' (Redneck) Fourth!

So this posting is over a week late--sorry.

Bruce scored some free tickets to O-town's Fourth of July bash, so we decided to take the family (thank goodness Melissa was around to help keep an eye on the kids). Dan & Dee declined to come with us (can't figure out why!), so we gave our extra tickets to some lucky people in line when we got there.

The highlight of the event for our family was a bunch of inflatable bouncy slides/tunnels/climbing walls for the kids. They played there for almost two hours and got a little giddy with the excitement of it all. We just sat in the shade watching them and listening to the sound of screeching tires and crashing, crumpling metal. Oh yes, the highlight of the event for everyone else who went was the demolition derby that started about the time we arrived.

Have you ever been to a demolition derby? I hadn't before. We couldn't see it from the kiddie area, but I ventured over there for awhile and enjoyed the crashing brutality of it all, and it was kind of funny to see a car flipped by another car and end up producing billows of smoke (a few people thought it might catch fire or explode, but we weren't that lucky). But suddenly, I felt a little too much like a redneck. No one else would have thought so, though. I was way overdressed (not enough skin showing). And I wasn't smoking or with someone who was smoking. So, feeling self-conscious I headed back to the grass and shared a sno-cone with my kids.

Anyway, our indecision gave way to determination that we would indeed stay for the fireworks, since none of us adults had gotten our money's worth yet (remember, the tickets were free!). I had brought earplugs for Sammy, but he still got hysterical fifteen minutes before the fireworks even started, and cried under a blanket (while sweating profusely) until the fireworks show was over. Then the tears turned off and he was fine. Riley and Zeke both loved the whole show, and so did the rest of us. Well, not Melissa. Being a teenager, she would only admit that it was "okay," but that's high praise from her these days! Anyway, we were glad she was around later because we totally forgot where we parked the car, and she pointed us the right direction.

We all had a blast (ha ha) a few nights later when Joel and Leah brought over a pile of gunpowder (okay, fireworks, legal ones at that) and we set them off together with D&D and kids. Sammy kept his ears covered but enjoyed the show, and talked about how "awesome" the fireworks were. We're so glad he had a good experience to make up for the forced fireworks show a few nights before. The boys all especially loved the sparklers, of course, and were very careful with them--I guess they believed my warning that hot sparklers would burn a hole through their skin and hurt for days and days. Didn't even have to exaggerate on that one.

Finally, after all that blah blah blah, I just want to say that I am grateful for this country and the freedoms I enjoy and often take for granted. Despite its imperfections and problems, this is still a great country. And if it needs improving, I guess I'd better go do my part.

My new obsession

Ever since Kathryn bragged to us several months ago that she (who never really liked exercising) is now addicted to exercising, I've thought, "I'd like to get there." Or at least to the point where I look forward to it, not just look back with relief when it's over.

I've been exercising consistently for the past two or three weeks. And lest you are concerned, no, I am not addicted to exercising. No threat of that anytime soon.

But I am developing an unusual enjoyment of weeding my garden.

Weeding was possibly the worst chore I had to do when I was a kid. Nothing like spending an hour on your knees on a 95-degree day in New Mexico, pulling weeds out of hard, rocky ground, with two older brothers to dish out a little emotional abuse as well. Lucky for me, we didn't have to do it very often.

Last summer I met bindweed, the nastiest weed ever, with miles of snake-like roots that snap under the slightest upward pressure, then shoot up new sprouts practically overnight. Our yard is infested with it. Solid clay instead of soil doesn't make the task any easier.

But the bindweed is not as prevalent this year (last year's battle is paying off just a bit), the soil is slowly getting better (after several hundred-dollars worth of compost), and the kids are crazier than ever. Yes, the real reason I love to weed is that it's as good as an hour of transcendental meditation or a long sauna session. Well, almost. I had Sammy & Riley help a little yesterday and they did their quota (yes, I'm being a good mom and showing them the value of WORK), but then they wandered inside to play with Grandma and Aunt Melissa. And I was left sweating in the sun, meditating on the significance of gardens, global crises, and what color to paint my toenails tonight. Thanks to those who gave me an hour of productive peace. I may have solved a few of the world's toughest problems out in my vegetable garden.

And the best part of all--pulling all those weeds out by the root is almost as satisfying as sqeezing a really great zit!

Dads are the greatest

Happy Father's Day!


First of all, apologies to Bruce. I can bake, but I can't sculpt a marshmallow daddy lying on a beach of meringue, or make a bed out of shortcake with a mini family snuggling in it. At least he'll get some strawberry trifle today!



Sorry if I get sappy, but I want to send a note out to the fathers I know and love. They have done a lot for me and deserve a little recognition.



Dad, thanks for being there my whole life. You've always been the smartest guy I know, which I knew even when I didn't want to listen to you. Thanks for taking the time to teach me math and how to use a hammer, for reading me "Tale of Two Cities" and picking me up from dance classes. Thanks for answering my questions even now that I'm an adult. Thanks for showing me how to be a good parent, and for being such a wonderful grandpa to three little boys who adore you.



Bruce, thank you for being my stalwart friend and example. You are so steady and kind and good. Thanks for putting up with the kids and me in all our craziness, and for even seeming to enjoy it. I see you in each of the boys in so many different ways. I hope they grow up to be wonderful fathers, just like you. I can think of no greater compliment.



Leo, thank you for raising such good kids. You gave Bruce a great example to follow (in fact, I think he even wishes he could retire and head off on a mission right about now). I am glad to have an extra "father" in my life, even though you tease me into humility a little too often. Thanks for your love and for being there when we need you.



Thank you to these three wonderful men--I have been so blessed to have each of you in my life. I love you all.

Six months and growing...HUGE!

Happy six-month birthday, Zeke!

Okay, so it was really eight days ago. I'm a little late. But look at how our little guy has grown. We are so amazed at all he can do, and so grateful for all he can't do (yet). We have enjoyed every single moment of his babyhood.

Before Zeke came into our lives, I realized we were just a wee bit crazy for thinking we could take on another kid. Sammy and Riley keep us busy! But now I am so grateful for the moments of peace he brings into our home. I get time to relax and nurse him, and I often read to the older boys at the same time--instant quiet! I appreciate evenings (after they are in bed) that much more. I get to watch Sammy and Riley stop running around to play with Zeke and see his enthusiastic reaction--he loves their antics. He is a joy in every way.

Unfortunately, I know what comes between six and twelve months--movement! I'm a little nervous about that, too. But we'll get a baby gate up, keep the tiny toys off the floor, and somehow we'll get through. If the first six months is any indication, we will find plenty of unexpected happiness throughout the coming months as well.

I love you, Zeke!

Harry Potter 100

Harry Potter 100
by Riley Jacobs

Harry Potter went up and down. He hit nothing but trees. He broke words off. I love pictures.

Harry Potter and Malfoy drowned.

They fell down a waterfall.

Harry Potter climbed up a tree. By himself.

Harry Potter and Malfoy fell down a house. They climbed up a candle. Harry Potter got Snape. He made boogers come out of Snape's ears. Then Harry Potter ate tree cookies for dessert.

THE END

Harry Potter # 9

Harry Potter And The Funnel
by Sammy Jacobs

One day Harry Potter did something that Dudley and Mr Dursley didn't want him to do.

Harry was at Hogwarts. His teacher was there waiting for him.

She said, "Are your mom and dad nice?" Harry said, "I don't have a mom and dad. I just have an aunt and uncle and cousin."

"What's your address?" asked the teacher. Harry said, "It is 95221253." "Okay," she said. "I'll come to your house tomorrow." The next day, when Harry woke up at Hogwarts, his teacher was already waiting for him at his house.

Harry went to his house. He saw his teacher. His teacher said, "Oh no you don't, Petunia and Vernon Dursley!"

THE END

Lettuce, Lawn and Losers

Latest goings-on:

• We went hiking Adam's Canyon with Dan & Deanne's family on Saturday. The boys had a fun time, but we didn't make it all the way to the waterfall (not that we expected to). We took some pictures and will post them up here when we can. Dan saw a rattlesnake -- not on the trail but in the parking lot! We're glad the boys did NOT see it.


• I got a new calling on Sunday -- Asst Priests Quorum Advisor and Youth Venture Leader. I'll be sad not to be teaching my group on Sundays anymore but I'm starting to look forward to working with the 16-18 year olds and going on camp-outs, hikes, etc.


• Sammy's busy with T-ball, Riley's busy with plastic swords, Zeke is busy with eating new solid foods (rice, peas, peaches, applesauce) and they're all three busy driving their parents nuts. But we still love 'em.


• I've been having a good time with the "Biggest Losers" blog -- some of the smack talk has been downright hysterical, and everyone who's participating is having success getting into better shape. Social pressure pays off -- whenever I'm tempted to eat more than I need to, I think about the shame I'll be forced to endure at the hands (or typing fingers) of my fellow Losers.


• We've got a garden going now, and so far so good. In fact, we're already enjoying two varieties of home-grown lettuce that Christy planted quite a while ago.


• Our lawn is still giving us headaches & stress. It doesn't look like it yet, but we really are working hard to restore it!

Have a good week.

Summer Eating

I love winter and the holiday season because I get to bake. I love summer for the non-baked goodies that are out there, especially those that use fresh delicious fruit. My apologies to those of you who are dieting right now.

Last weekend (or was it the week before?) we tested out a new recipe for Ginger Strawberry Soup. Wow. Thanks to Kathryn that I even noticed the recipe in a paper. I was excited to see it had no alcohol--she and Kent ate some they loved at a party, but they found out it had wine in it; I've seen a few recipes since that also use alcohol. This one uses ginger beer (high quality, not Canada Dry please). Refreshing, kid-friendly, elegant, and sugar-free! Okay, not really--it's more dessert than main course soup, but it's really fun.

Today we hosted Dan & Deanne and Leah & Joel for grilled grub and homemade ice cream and brownies. Wow. Thanks to Mom for the amazing pork chop marinade. I was skeptical that something that simple could be as delicious as she claimed. But I was blown away, and I think Bruce was too. Then, we made some chocolate cinnamon ice cream with chunks of homemade ginger snaps in it. My stomach was full to bursting, but I kept going. (We almost had to cancel that one because we couldn't find the lid for the ice cream maker. Luckily, I found it in the dish drainer where I left it. I tell you, my brain is dying a slow and embarrassing death.)

Here's to a summer of grilling and ice-cream making. Please come visit so we'll have an excuse to do so. We're glad to take suggestions for ice cream flavors/mix-ins. I also take bribes from anyone who wants to make sure Bruce does NOT win the biggest loser competition. I know I'm out!

We love Neil!

By the way, thanks to all of you who voted to keep Neil on our playlist. He won with a whopping 40%!!!!

Cracklin' Rosie, get on board!

Riley and Zeke

Riley and Zeke need a little shout-out too, so here goes.

Riley, who took his time about starting the "terrible twos," is now proving that the terrible threes can be that much worse. He runs faster. Saturday we were doing yardwork in the front, and noticed Sammy was gone. While I searched for him (found him inside), Riley sneaked off and hid behind Bruce's clothes in the closet. We searched for 5-10 minutes and were starting to enter panic mode when we found him. We weren't panicking enough to let him off without a scolding though. He also managed to turn the chapel lights off during Sacrament Meeting yesterday. Oh, and there was the incident in the bathroom Sunday evening. He took his time washing his hands before dinner. Later, during toothbrushing time, Bruce asked me how long the sink had been draining slowly. I've been a mom long enough that I immediately pulled out the drain stopper and found a large wad of Kleenex clogging up the pipes. Lest you worry for our sanity and Riley's life, Riley is a sweetheart most of the time and has one of those smiles that gets him out of trouble quickly. And he prayed last night that "no one will get killed or die, and no one will get hurt" while Tracen and Tyler visited today. Amazingly, no one did (well, not seriously).

Zeke is cute as a button, is learning to sit up (set a record of three minutes today before he toppled over in fright as Riley approached), and even wakes up cheerful after being ignored all night long (no more midnigt feedings, buster!). He started eating rice cereal last week and seems to like it okay. He turned up his nose at applesauce, probably because I buy the kind with no added sugar. That's what I get for swearing I would not allow my kids to be picky eaters--that is, I get three picky eaters.

Preschool Graduate(s?)

I'm sorry to be posting old news, but I have been a bit under the weather the past few weeks with a minor infection that has made feeding Zeke pretty uncomfortable.

Anyway, just over a week ago, Sammy graduated from Buzi Bee Preschool in a gala event that spanned two days. (You're right, evidently the teacher can't spell and we're glad he just learned shapes and letters there, but she's great with the four-year-olds.)

Friday morning they had a parents-only program at school where the kids sang and talked and showed off all they had learned during the year. Ms. Debee was quizzing the kids before the program really got underway, and came to the question "What is the solar system?" Silence. Evidently, one day on the subject isn't enough. Then Riley came to the rescue by calling out "The sun and all the planets." We're now wondering whether he should go to Ms. Debee's preschool next year as planned, or start teaching his own preschool. He can spell pretty well, too.

Saturday evening we had a mass picnic at the park for all the kids, family, friends, and anyone who has even heard of Buzi Bee Preschool. The kids had another cute program. Then we crowded into the lobby of Surf & Swim for the countdown to 7:00--that's the time when the pool reservation began, and we all rushed into the locker rooms and under the giant bubble dome that is Surf & Swim. Sammy and Riley had a great time, but were sad that we didn't let them stay until 10 when the party ended. (Sorry, but who throws a preschool party that goes until 10 at night?!?)

Congratulations, Sammy! We're so proud of you for all you've learned and we're excited for you to move on to Kindergarten. Keep up the good work!

The Belated Birthday Bash

My parents always gave me amazing birthday parties. My mom made delicious and beautiful cakes. I pretty much got to do whatever activity/theme I wanted. But still, I was always a bit jealous of the kids who got to have birthday parties at Chuck E Cheese or the roller skating rink, complete with a big store-bought cake with mounds of gross frosting.

So, when the opportunity came for a joint party with four of Sammy's friends (including his "best cousin") who all have birthdays very close to each other, we decided to go for it. Today was the big day.

Classic Skating has climbing toys, bouncing toys, a giant skating/scootering/tricycling rink. We invited a million kids (okay, there were only TWENTY FIVE four- and five-year-olds). We got pizza. We had Spider-Man cupcakes. Half the kids wore superhero costumes. It was fun for the kids and I didn't have to plan anything.

But I guess chaos is not my forte. I only had to keep track of a few kids other than my own. No one got into fights, got sick, or got lost. Still, the whole thing left me feeling a bit unsettled. Most of the kids just played with one or two others, which I guess always happens when that many kids are together. Sammy got some presents, but in the confusion he was never sure who they were from. I found myself thinking, "When can I go home?" instead of, "What great friends and what a cute birthday boy." I didn't get to have fun with the kids.

I hope my kids don't resent me for this, but I think it's back to the hokey, homemade, play-in-the-backyard kind of parties next year. I kind of enjoy the party planning and cupcake making. It's nice for me to feel like a part of Sammy's crowd during these younger years while he still acknowledges my presence. Thanks mom, for all the years you threw great parties for me. Or did you do it for your own sanity?

Disappointment haunted all my dreams...

Sammy has been looking forward to playing on a baseball team since last summer.

A week and a half ago, he had his first practice for his t-ball team, the Mariners. Unfortunately, it was a bit rainy/snowy that day and after two minutes of running around bases, the coach sent us home. Sammy had to be dragged off the field, and sobbed all the way home.

The following Monday was sunny, so he got to practice. He told me "This is the best day EVER!" He had preschool, played with cousins, then t-ball practice. Of course, he's the kid who sits down in the outfield, forgets to run after he hits the ball, etc. But he had fun. Then came Wednesday's practice, cancelled by rain again, and more sobbing. It's hard to watch my little boy so disappointed, and not be able to do anything about it.

Anyway, tonight was his first real game. Again, he forgot to run when he hit the ball. He had fun kicking dirt on the bases. And he chased the ball all over the infield, no matter he was playing outfield. Once, he even got the ball after tug-of-war with a teammate, and was so proud of it, holding it up like a trophy. Too bad he didn't throw it to the first baseman. Or the pitcher. Or the coach who asked for it back.

But there has never been a happier five-year-old. After all, he's got another 15 years before we expect him to play like Derek Jeter. For now, we enjoy watching him be Sammy.

Spring Cleaning, Part 2

A huge thanks to Dan and Deanne for watching Sammy and Riley Friday and Saturday. It was the most fun I've had cleaning house in a long time--very few interruptions. Zeke was quite good all day. He slept in, took long naps, and watched us clean blinds, light fixtures, walls, and all the other stuff we never clean. And, lucky you, cleaning all day makes me wax philosophical.

Cleaning is satisfying. Most of you have felt that. I've decided that's why it's smart to let my whole house get really dirty, not cleaning it very often. Much more visible satisfaction. After all, what fun is mopping a white floor that just stays white. I prefer mopping a dingy gray floor--instant gratification.

Cleaning is depressing. Especially deep cleaning. Because no one notices when you do it. They only notice if you don't do it. No one will come to my house and say, "Wow, you must have spent hours vacuuming your blinds! And look at your clean cupboards!" Not to mention, the constant clutter of four boys and a messy mom tends to be more noticeable than clean windows.

Cleaning is addictive. Once I get the momentum going, I want to keep going and going and going. This is why it's so hard to clean with kids around--the interruptions keep me from getting in the groove. Right now I have big plans for more deep cleaning, a project a day. But one lazy Mother's Day with Bruce cooking and doing dishes might destroy all my initiative. Anyway, it seems like most things are addictive, for example Kathryn and exercise, Bruce and BYU football, me and eating chocolate (also eating veggies, gardening, reading, and even scripture study). So I guess I'd better do a little more of those things that are good for me, hoping that they will become things I also love to do.

By the way, hats off to my wonderful husband who took me to the opera last night (Don Giovanni, kind of a cheesy soap opera). It was fun, though next time I want to dress up a little more--it was fun seeing some of the getups people were in. He and Sammy also made me a fabulous Mother's Day "Funny Lunch"--it's me lounging on a beach of meringue and blueberry pie filling, in case you can't tell. Sammy and Riley were too tired today to be very fun--Sammy refused to go up to sing with the Primary in Sacrament Meeting, which he usually loves. And Riley was excited to go with me to see Great-Grandma Payne tonight, but then was shy and wouldn't talk or sing to her.

Finally, love and appreciation to our wonderful mothers, who got through the ups and downs of raising us with patience and good sportsmanship, and still love us today. We are so grateful for all you do and all you are. Thank you!

Spring Cleaning Part 1

Maybe I shouldn't admit this, but this is the first time in my life I'm doing an official "Spring Cleaning," and it's only because of my wonderful sister-in-law, Deanne, who volunteered a kid-trade so we could both have a weekend to get it done. Thanks for the idea, Dee. And thanks for letting your kids get the stomach flu the day before said trade, so it didn't end up happening. (Never fear, we'll try again next weekend.)

Anyway, Bruce and I tried cleaning yesterday, even though the kids were all home. We cleaned the entire house...okay, just the windows. The rest of the house can wait, but boy did it feel good to scrub windows, frames, screens, everything. Only to have them all covered with fingerprints a few minutes later. But isn't that life? After the windows, Bruce weeded our bog/pond area and even drained the water (so we can convert it to a pondless waterfall in the next few weeks), but by this morning our hillside spring had filled the pond back up. And the weeds will grow back. But in the meantime, it's nice to have a few minutes of clean.

It was a pretty romantic day of scrubbing, too, because it was our anniversary. Happy seven years, Bruce! I feel blessed to be able to say I'd do it all over again. And despite what we see in Hollywood, happy marriages can happen without a prenup. (We're probably better off without one.) I am so grateful for my wonderful, kind, patient, loving, funny, and good husband, and for the three little (big!) blessings that have come into our lives. They are the greatest evidence that marriage works, given a little effort and a lot of love and forgiveness. Aren't children beautiful? Thank you Bruce! (By the way, the cleaning yesterday was my idea, and Bruce has planned a fun date for next weekend, so he's not a slacker.)


On a side note, Bruce wants everyone that I had hiccups, loudly, during stake conference today. But after one upside-down drink from Sammy's sippy cup, I was cured.

Finally, I'm spring cleaning online, too. Gone is the poll about Riley's hair. Thanks to all who voted. For the time being, the hair will stay short. Unless he cries again at the next haircut. And now we want to know how you feel about the music on our site. Really. Because I like it, but sometimes the music on other peoples' blogs bugs me--depending on what songs they choose. We do take requests into consideration as we post our playlists, so tell us your favorite and we might add it! (Don't worry, votes are anonymous.)

p.s.--Check out the new slideshow. Nifty, eh?