Our Forever Family...

Ice queen...

2012-01-24T22:43:00.000-08:00

Snow and ice has been our lives for the past week. The ice was so bad that more than half of our town was without power. Not for a few hours...more like a few days. We were very lucky and never lost power, but we did lose a few tree limbs from the weight of the ice.

Today more snow began to fall pretty heavy as I drove the little girls to the store. Grace was looking out the car window when I heard her say to herself "Thank you Jesus for the snow, but we don't want anymore." My thoughts exactly. :)

Let's Play Dog...

2012-01-22T20:54:00.000-08:00

Whoever said preteens were difficult to have around?? Austin is a heaven sent when it comes to his little sisters. He will play with them in our playroom all the time. Their favorite is "animal" where they are the animal's and he is their master. He doesn't always want to play these games, but he'll do it anyway, because he knows how much fun the girls have with him. He'll make an amazing dad one day.

Home...

2012-01-17T15:31:00.000-08:00

You know what I miss? Georgia. Home. Yes, I moved away when I was 16 and I went with a fight too. Georgia was all I knew. I was born and raised in this wonderful state. All knew were tornadoes in Spring. Cornbread dressing. Fried green tomatoes. Lightening bugs. Scary humidity. Friends and strangers (myself included) saying "Ya'll."

I haven't been back to this dear place since I was 17. I had a splendid childhood. I cherish my memories. Nothing spectacular happened, but I could always count on consistency. Life was solid, and predictable. Something I consider a wonderful gift.

If I could go back for just a few days and forget the stress of being an adult, I would do it in a minute.

Even if it's just for a little while, I will one day make my way back to that beautiful place that has my heart.

Stand up...

2012-01-17T14:09:00.000-08:00

I know I could have got these up a lot sooner but I have found I have to do things on my own time, and not fight disorganization. My head is in a happier place this way.

These are a few pics from the school Christmas program. I didn't take them. They were sent to me from a teacher, and they warmed my heart.

I love that my kids are in a place where worshiping heavenly father and Jesus Christ are not condemened, but welcomed.

I'm thankful they don't have to call it a "Holiday Program." They can say "Christmas Program." With that said...I am so impressed with kids that go to public school too. Kids that stand up for what they believe despite what they aren't encouraged to say.

The world is crazier than when I was a teenager. It's only going to get worse. I think there are some pretty awesome kids in this world that are proving that they can take on the challenge.

Working together...

2012-01-14T19:47:00.000-08:00

It is time for the Pinewood Derby once again. It comes around so fast every year, and because we had three boys in a row, we are going to be doing it for a lot longer. It helps to have lots of kids because Chris put all the kids (and I mean all of them) to work getting the car ready. Scarlett made me laugh so hard with her work glasses. She was determined to sand that car and make it amazing. You know what they say? "A family that builds Pinewood Derby cars together...stays together." Okay, so they don't say that exactly, but close enough.

Hats...

2012-01-13T20:43:00.000-08:00

You know you have a lot of boys when you walk into your laundry room and there's a million ball caps hanging on the hooks. I have walked pass these hats a gazillion times, and haven't thought twice about them, other than them being in the way and falling off the hooks and me having to pick them up. But today I thought about how the boys, one day soon... will tower over me.

I find it funny that I had 4 sisters and one lone brother. Before I got married I knew very little about boys. And yet am raising three of them. I can honestly say that I know without a doubt that they love me. I am their world. One day this will change. Someone else will fill that role. So until then, I will enjoy their loudness and wrestling (oh that darned wrestling) and one day miss them breaking every shred of furniture I have ever owned.

"I get the Hawaii spoon!"

2012-01-11T11:00:00.000-08:00

I thought you might want to take a look at a very important spoon that resides in our home. I have a love hate relationship with this spoon and I'm going to tell you why. Nearly three years ago when we took our first trip to Hawaii we stayed at a hotel that offered a hot breakfast. One of their spoons ended up hiding out in our bags until we spotted it thousands of miles away from it's home. You can't imagine the excitement we felt when we realized we had this spoon. It reminded us of pancakes and omelets. Eating outside at 6am in 80 degree weather. Little birds trying to eat our food rather than flies. It was truly a prized possession. Only problem? Every child fights over who gets to eat with it. This has literally gone on for 3 years! Scarlett wasn't even on the trip (she was in my tummy) and even she yells and screams "I want the Hawaii spoon!!!!!" So, this is why I sometimes hate the Hawaii spoon. Next time, I think i will stick with those cute little souvenir spoons that are too small to eat with.

Hitting the mute button...

2012-01-09T21:05:00.000-08:00

I think Christian is attempting to turn down my voice box in this photo. Too bad we don't have remote controls to mute out the people around us, when we get tired of listening, but I guess that could backfire if our kids could turn us down.

Chris is always having to take continuing education courses to keep up with his profession. Why don't we have those for moms?? I am constantly having to up my game and come up with new ways to motivate the kids to be obedient. Be it bribes, or promises, or just plain getting mad (which never works, by the way.)

But, I have said it before and I'll say it again. It's going to fly by. It already is! And I will just keep getting through each day, because all in all, it is so worth it. This really and truly is the happiest time of my life. That doesn't mean I won't continue to fantasize about remote controls for kids though.

I'll try to be prettier tomorrow...promise.

2012-01-09T20:57:00.000-08:00

A statement that Grace made today after she got into trouble..."Mom, you are pretty when you're not mean. But when you are mean? You're not pretty." Why do kids have to be so wise???

What I wouldn't give...

2012-01-08T14:16:00.000-08:00

I had such a good childhood. I had/have so many great sisters...and such an impish little brother. (He still is!) I am sure that we had our moments of wanting to kill each other, but it's kind of like when you take a vacation with kids. They fight the whole time and you swear you'll never take them again, but then looking back, all you can remember are the good moments you created.

Lately I have missed my little sister Gina so much. She has seven kids, and I have six. This equals, hardly any time to talk.

I always wanted to be her twin because she was absolutely gorgeous. I would say "You are Gina, and I can change my name to Tina." Or sometimes I was Melanie and I would insist she be called "Melody."

We worked well together as playmates because Gina was sweet and passive, and tolerated my bossy assertive side.

Sometimes I will dream of things that happened during my childhood and it becomes so vivid...completely tangible. I would love to go back and play dolls all day long, or carry bulk bags of unpopped kernels around, and pretend they are our babies. Gosh, they felt like real babies. And boy, did we have interesting imaginations.

I am thankful for the part each of my siblings have played in my life. I could go on and on, about memories I have stored away in my brain that are completely priceless to me. I am thankful my parents kept having us, so I could have them all in my life. It was a true sacrifice on their part.

You're a good guy...

2012-01-05T14:36:00.000-08:00

I recently read one of my old journals from when I was 18. Halee and I read many of the pages together. It was so amazing to go back to that time...almost eerie. And yet, it seems like yesterminute (if there is such a thing)that it all happened.

I wrote about Chris and how he came all the way out to see me in Oregon the first time. I had written "Chris is a nice guy who will one day make some girl very happy. It's just not going to be me."

I am so glad I didn't follow my instinct on that one, because I couldn't have been more wrong. Chris is the most selfless human being I have ever known. I have always come first for him. Sometimes I feel selfish because in all honesty I am not as giving as him. (Remember my previous post about my oat??) I am so thankful to have him. I could never want more out of my life than having him in it. I know it sounds gushy but it's 100% true, and I have to say it, because he always needs to remember and know it.

It was his fault!!

2012-01-05T14:24:00.000-08:00

Christmas break was great. Absolutely wonderful for the first two weeks. But when that 3rd week hit, all heck broke loose, and I thought I might kill someone...myself included. I don't know what the deal was, but the kids became so incredibly bored and stir crazy that it seemed all they wanted to do was fight. They also tried to resist what I told them to do, which isn't very common because they know I'm a tough cookie when it comes to stuff like that. I thought about sending threatening letters to their teachers insisting they start back early, but I didn't think that would work. Instead we just got through it. Boy, oh boy do I need warm weather. If I could just get my sweeties out into some warm air, problem above would have been easily solved. But alas...we are still alive...school is back in, and everyone is a little bit nicer now.

Give it up and go to sleep...

2012-01-05T14:21:00.000-08:00

We all have those times where we resist the urge to go out like a light. In cases like these, you just gotta give up the ghost and give in.

Be three again....pretty please???

2012-01-03T22:18:00.000-08:00

I almost cried when I stumbled upon this picture today. My little Christian at the tender age of 3. I forgot he used to look this way! Little and toddlerish, with lots of crazy, wild out of control hair. Oh, how I would give anything to make him this little again, for just a day...and snuggle him in my rocking chair. Caress his blond curls. Sing him a song. The older he gets, the more he resists this kind of stuff. He has transitioned from my baby into my tough little guy, who doesn't feel totally comfortable being mauled and smooched by mama. But I miss my baby boy. He will always be so though, in my mama heart. As will all my sweet, sweet babies.

Halee is the default mom...

2012-01-03T15:57:00.000-08:00

The other night Chris and I went out for our date night. We came home to a couple of straight haired girls. I hardly recognized Scarlett. I'm more shocked that they allowed Halee near them with a hot iron. They won't let me near them with one. The next day they begged for me to give them their curls back. They are such funny girls.

Check out that oat..

2011-12-30T11:17:00.000-08:00

My most favorite cereal, that I eat every single morning is Honey Bunches Of Oats. About a month ago, Chris and I decided to have some for a late night snack. A huge oat fell into my bowl as I was pouring it. This got me so excited , it was a little scary. Then, the worst thing ever happened. Chris came over, picked it up and ate it. I never expected myself to react the way I did...but sadly, I got angry and said "You ate my oat!!! How could you do that?!?!"

This has been sort of a family joke ever since. I recently spoke with my sister who said she is territorial about food. Our oldest sister is also an admitted food hoarder. In fact, my sisters boyfriend has now nicknamed her "Junkyard dog" because of the growls he gets when he comes near her food. So glad I'm not alone on this.

This morning, as usual I poured myself honey bunches of oats, and miraculously, an oat as big as the one my husband stole, fell into my bowl. And I got so excited I took it out of the bowl and snapped a picture...it slipped from hand, fell on the floor, and guess what I did anyway?? I ate it. I guess my sister isn't the only junkyard dog in the family.

Christmas...

2011-12-29T11:17:00.000-08:00

This year was one of my favorite Christmas' ever. We made it very low key...meaning, we didn't buy tons and tons of gifts. The kids each got four or five presents, and that was it. We could have got more than that, but are trying to help the kids fully understand what Christmas really is all about.

My husband and I both came from families that didn't have extravagant Christmas' (not that there's anything wrong with them) it just wasn't possible. In fact, Chris came from a family of nine kids, and one year they had hardly any money at all, and each got one present. All the boys got the same truck. Same color...same everything. Chris remembers it as being one of his most memorable Christmas' ever. Having less made them remember how much they truly had.

Everyone has to have their own style of Christmas. And I don't in any way judge those that have lots of presents. This just worked for us. And next year may be bigger. This year was a teaching moment.

We ate so much food. My favorite part of all. We ate leftovers so many times, my kids were almost in tears. They begged me to make something besides leftovers for dinner last night. I felt sorry for their poor little souls, and gave in.

Merry Christmas, my precious family!!

Christian...

2011-12-22T18:17:00.000-08:00

Finally got my little Christian's picture done today. He was the last of the bunch. He's never been one to enjoy having his picture taken, and the ice cold weather didn't help matters. Next time, we'll be smart and do pics in Spring or Summer. Nevertheless, he is adorable, and I love this little guys with all my heart.

A story of charity...

2011-12-20T13:01:00.000-08:00

Last night Halee prepared Family home evening. A family night we have every Monday, where we have a little spiritual thought, games, and treats. My kids love helping get involved by preparing the thought themselves. Halee was in charge last night, and she showed a video to us that truly touched my heart. I must have a serious case of Christmas, because I cried as a watched this animated video...and continued to be emotional for quite a while afterward. It's so simplistic yet so very profound. It made me realize how very blessed I am...and also, how important it is to reach out and serve others. The Lord has truly blessed my family over and over again, and my goal is, that even in my weaknesses I can reach and pay it forward when the opportunities arise.

We work in numbers...

2011-12-16T12:04:00.000-08:00

There are 45 kids currently in our school. The Principle recently told me that our family makes up 10% of the school. This has worked to our advantage with the latest school year. There are a few kids who have had some bully like characteristics that have tried to gang up on our kids for various reasons. Halee particularly was targeted by this one girl who is very insecure, and went after Halee with a vengeance. Thankfully Halee is a tough cookie and handled things the way she should. She never kept it a secret and communicated with me about everything. What makes me even happier though, is that all our kids stuck together like glue. If Austin saw someone saying something mean to his brothers or sisters he would tell that person to "knock it off!" All of them at least once, has come to the aid of their siblings at one time or another this year. This makes my heart feel hugely grateful.

Do you want to know what I'm even happier about??? Those mean kids are switching schools. Whew. I can breathe easier now.

Cat's need educated too...

2011-12-12T23:24:00.001-08:00

Chris found Scarlett outside our back door on a cold 30 degree morning, reading to one of our cats. Not really sure if it did much for the cat, but it sure made me and my husband smile. The part that puzzles me though, is that the cat is actually is leaning in to look....weird.

Oh Christmas Tree...let us not hurt each other...

2011-12-12T22:29:00.000-08:00

When we pile into our car it can be a frightening experience. The noise level can make you want to jump out of your car while it's in motion. I haven't been brave enough to try it yet, but if you hear of any car accidents similar to this... involving a family of 8, don't be surprised.

We went Christmas tree hunting on Saturday. We found this cute little farm that sold beautiful Noble tree's...my favorite. It didn't take us long to find the one we wanted. A cute chubby tree, that stole our hearts.

I love Christmas. I have been listening to Pandora Christmas for weeks now, and I swear if I weren't born to be me, I would have been born to be Mrs. Santa.

Dying brain cells, and a bigger heart...

2011-12-12T22:17:00.000-08:00

I have turned into an airhead. I didn't used to be this way. I have tried to figure out how it happened, and the only conclusion I can come up with is that over time, my brain cells have begun dying. Maybe from having six kids? This is a possibility. On that note though, my heart has grown and I have gained wisdom that I wouldn't trade for the brain of Einstein. These sweet children are worth it all.

They each gave me special little heartfelt gifts for my birthday. Every gift touched my heart.

My husband treated me like a Queen all day long. The funny part about this, is that he treats me Queen like on a daily basis...he really does. If you know him, you know I'm not exaggerating...but on my birthday, it was times 10.

So, all in all, turning 34 could have been a whole heck of a lot worse. I feel blessed.

School...

2011-11-29T15:24:00.000-08:00

So, I guess I was wrong about Grace loving preschool. She has had so many back and forths since starting Prekindergarten. One minute she loves, it...the next she's in tears, begging to stay home with me. I have been struggling with what to do. Chris and I talked (I'm so thankful for his approach sometimes) and he said "She's only 4 years old. Who really cares if she's in preschool? She'll be grown before you know it. Just let her stay home." That was all I needed. My mom gave me the same advice. Ever since I made up my mind, I have been so happy with my decision.

I bought some work books to keep Grace entertained and so we are doing a little bit of "home" preschool. We do this while Scarlett naps and it's giving me the chance to just be with my Grace. I'm going to enjoy this time, because Chris is right...she'll be grown before I know it.

So many things to be thankful for...

2011-11-28T12:24:00.000-08:00

We had such a great time with family over Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is one of my most favorite Holiday's because it feels like Christmas too! We listened to Christmas music on our long drive down, as it rained like crazy.

The weather actually warmed up to 60 degree's the rest of the time. We took the kids to Wildlife safari....a little tradition. The festival of light's...Christmas lights galore. The big mall....okay...tiniest mall ever. But it was still so much fun.

I love my family. They really do remind me how blessed I am to have them in my life. I am so grateful to my parents for all they have taught us. My kids love and adore them. This warms my spirit like no other. And I am thankful for my siblings for just being wonderful. I wish my youngest and oldest sisters could have been with us!

I'm so thankful for my husband. He and my children bring me so much joy it's almost too much to take in.

I'm thankful for my Savior. I couldn't do this life thing, without him by my side.

When we got home last night, and I was putting Scarlett to bed, the last thing she said was "Can we go back to sleep at Grandma's?" I'm so thankful for family.

Running alone...

2011-11-22T18:56:00.000-08:00

So, I have now been running solo for the past 7 to 8 weeks, and I must say...it is getting rather lonely. I ran across this picture and it made me miss running with my BFF more than ever. My friend has worked her little tail off these last several weeks to build her little muscles in or around her IT band, so she can be strong enough to run again. We are hoping maybe another couple of weeks?? Until then, it's just me and my trusty garmin. Get better Tammy...I am desperate! :)

P.S I am the slower runner in the photo.

They make it worth it...

2011-11-16T22:49:00.000-08:00

My two sweet girls. They take care of our kittens like I take care of a newborn baby. It makes my heart smile. They want to be in their footsie jammies 24/7. There's even holes in the bottoms of the feet. They don't care, so neither do I.

Handy toes...

2011-11-14T20:11:00.001-08:00

I know you must be wondering why you are looking at a photo of my toes holding a small toy, right? You are looking at what a mother of 6 has to do in order to accomplish big things, like keeping her house clean.

Chris found me limping through the kitchen. Arms completely full with coats, trash, toys, etc. He said "Can you help me too?" I replied "I don't have a hand to spare...heck, I don't even have a toe to spare." That's when he saw my toe holding onto a small truck. He said that it was the funniest thing he'd seen in a long time, and that it really summed up what being a parent entails at times. And people wonder why I went to Mexico for a week???

Halee and Connor...

2011-11-13T20:45:00.000-08:00

I finished Halee and Connor's pictures today on a whim. It was getting dark around 4:30 when I did them, so we had to hurry our little tails off.

As I went to edit them, I couldn't believe how much they have grown. Halee is now getting close to 14. I remember the day I turned 14. All I can remember thinking is "Yay! church dances!" Seeing her, is often times like reliving my own teenage years. So stinking weird. Luckily my Connor is still a young boy. I am not ready for any of them to grow up, just yet.

Too pretty...

2011-11-11T12:20:00.000-08:00

I tried this today and it didn't work. Guess I better try to be prettier tomorrow.

Little acts...

2011-11-09T17:12:00.001-08:00

As a mom I have noticed that I love my kids so much, that it's almost too much to handle. As a result I want to tell them all the time that I love them (okay maybe not all the time) but pretty close. Saying it doesn't seem to be enough, and so as moms, I think we find little ways to say it, without actually saying it. Today I said it to Christian, by removing his shoes and dirty socks after being at school for eight hours. I didn't even realize I was saying it, until he looked at me removing them and I could swear his eyes were saying "I love you too." It meant so much to me, and really hit home to me of how awesome love really is. It doesn't have to be said all the time. It can be demonstrated, illustrated, spoken, and most of all given. I need to remember to show it as often as possible and in as many ways as possible.

Gosh, I think Mothers everywhere are such awesome creatures. I think of my own mom and all the little things she did to say I love you. She wasn't ever late to pick me up from an event. I knew no matter what, that I could count on her. She always laid our church clothes out the night before church...once again reminded us with out saying it, that she loved us. She did little things like this all the time. And I believe Mothers everywhere do it all the time too...every single day...without even knowing it.

Being a mom is the greatest gift...

2011-11-06T14:52:00.000-08:00

When my kids grow up I think one thing I will the most, is giving them a bath. Getting them in their jammies (or jam jams, as we like to call it) and reading to them. I absolutely love being a mother. Of all things I do in my life, nothing will ever mean as much to me as having the opportunity to raise six children. What a blessing they are to my heart. I cherish every bit, of every one of them.

Austin...

2011-11-04T15:43:00.000-07:00

When Austin was four months old, I took him to Sears to get a professional photo done. It took like two shots, and he was grinning from ear to ear. He was the easiest baby ever to photograph. He hasn't changed much. I got this shot of my growing up boy, in just a few short minutes. I love this kid.

Sinister baby...

2011-11-04T11:51:00.000-07:00

Why is it that for every child, a sinister, evil baby will not cease to exist? I remember my sister Aprils evil doll, named Yellowdee. She had yellow hair made of yarn, and we convinced ourselves that she was indeed a killer doll. We would lock her away in our closet at night and pray she wouldn't sneak out and follow through with her evil plan to kill all of us in our beds.

Then there was red headed Becky doll. She had red freckles all over her face. The weird part about Becky is that she was once a beloved doll in our lives. But then one day, we came to the conclusion (not sure why) that she was just as evil, if not more evil, then Yellowdee. I think this may have had something to do with her being put into the bath and coming out with a rats nest for hair.

These evil doll memories flooded back yesterday when Scarlett, at the tender age of two, ran into my room with the above doll, and exclaimed in a very worried voice "Mom! This is a mean baby!" And when I looked really deeply into this babies eyes...I had to agree.

Halloween is fun with kids...

2011-11-01T15:22:00.000-07:00

I have always loved Halloween but for some reason I looked forward to it this year more than usual. Maybe it's because I don't have a teeny baby. Scarlett is almost 2 1/2 and she seemed to understand and be excited about what was going on. Plus, I love chocolate, so robbing their candy bags is always a plus. I probably only burned a quarter of the calories off on my run this morning

After trick or treating we put the sugar loaded kids to bed and let the oldest two stay up and watch the creepy movie The Others. I made Chris sit right beside me so I didn't jump out of the chair. It was a blast!!

Two down, four to go...

2011-11-01T12:13:00.000-07:00

I finished Grace's pictures, and am relieved to have the youngest ones done. I am sure the older four will be super easy and fun.

Grace was a paratrooper while I took her photo's because she was super cold and made sure I knew it. But we got one and I am happy with it. It reminds me of Grace and her upbeat, cute personality.

My Scarlett...

2011-10-31T11:39:00.000-07:00

Who needs a photographer when you've got a good camera and a little photo shop? I am no where near a photographer but I enjoy doing my own children's photo's. Once a year we like to do new ones...special ones of just them, to look back on one day. Scarlett was the one I was most afraid of doing. She rarely even looks at the camera, and is the opposite of a ham. She is very reserved when she knows she's putting on a show. I finally got this one after about 15 minutes of picture taking, and this is one of the only ones that turned out. Woohoo! We got lucky...and she is as cute as bug. I love this little lady.

I haven't got to the other kids photo's yet, but I will post them as soon as I do.

I run like a girl...

2011-10-29T11:08:00.000-07:00

At my last half Marathon in Tacoma, after picking up our shirts from the Expo, we (like always) decided to browse and see what cool running products were being sold. I rarely buy anything, but once in a while I can't resist the temptation. I saw a shirt that had the above quote on it. I looked at my friend and said "wouldn't it be fun to run in a shirt like that?" She quickly put me in my place and reminded me how unfun it would be to be wearing that, and to be passed. I had a quick mental picture of people passing me and snickering, and looking over their shoulder at me after leaving me in the dust. I didn't buy the shirt.

Running for the soul...

2011-10-27T11:45:00.000-07:00

I stole this picture from an online running group that I belong to. I couldn't resist.

My best friend has had some big time issues with her IT band (part of her leg) and she was finally instructed that she needed to lay off running for at least 6
weeks. This leaves me running with none other than....(drum roll)....myself. It's been interesting times being alone, I have to say. The negatives are obvious. I can't visit with my bff about daily happenings, which I love being able to do. No more talking about what happened last week on Survivor or Grey's Anatomy. (We always have very intelligent conversations you know.)

On the other hand, it's also been good for me, in a very temporary kind of way. I have realized that I can do it alone, even if I don't want to, and that I do have the motivation to get my rear out of bed and venture out in 30 degree weather. Which I must say, is a lot harder to do when you're running solo.

During my run this morning I went to turn my music on and my ipod was totally dead. This too, was good for me. I just thought about anything and everything in that 4 miles, that I don't have time to think about at any other time of day.

I believe that running isn't just good for the body, it's an awesome pick me up for the soul as well. I am grateful to be a runner, even if I do look like the goofy little girl in the photo. :)

Try to find me...

2011-10-22T00:45:00.000-07:00

I gotta tell ya, that Halloween game night always stresses me out a little. Coming up with a costume can make me a nervous wreck. I'm not that creative and so it causes odd amounts of anxiety. This year my kids made it easy for me when they said "How about Where's Waldo??" In light of their obsession with these books, we went with it. It was actually a lot of fun dressing up us a nerd. I loved wearing glasses, ha!

We went with our good friends, the Three...uh, make that Two Amigo's. It was a blast as always and I came away asking "why were you stressed about that??" It was great and the hostesses happen to be obsessed with scary freaky things, which made it all the more fun. I love Halloween. This is one of my most favorite times of the year. Now time to bring on the real deal.

P.S Try to ignore my dirty mirror in the background.

Wonderful mockery...

2011-10-20T11:31:00.000-07:00

This picture might clue you in as to who I don't want to see as our President, next term.

So, this is love...

2011-10-20T10:38:00.000-07:00

I love bedtime pictures when the kids are asleep. This is a time when they can get all snugly and not even know it. I like to creep up on them unaware, and sneakily shoot a picture. The flash usually goes off and they rustle a little, and then resume there adorable cuddling. I love these sweet kids.

White trash...

2011-10-18T11:48:00.000-07:00

Okay, so our trash man picks our trash up once a week, and I swear to you, we have more trash than I can believe. I guess It's because we are a big family, but holy heck! It's costing me like $50 a month! Craziness. If I were a better recycler I wouldn't be paying so much, but recycling takes too much effort, and Chris hates it too.

Our drive way is just long enough that Chris doesn't like to pull both the large cans out, so he drives them on the good old Lawn mower/trash transporter. The kids love to get a ride when he does this. Only, normally it's only one or two kids, but last night 5 kids ended up on there. I hope these kids realize how lucky they are to have Chris as a dad. He really is one unique guy.

Mexico...

2011-10-16T14:35:00.000-07:00

I have officially received a stamp in my passport. I have always wanted to leave the Country just to see what is out there, and thanks to my husband and my best friends husband...I was able to. I didn't know what to expect when we arrived in Puerto Vallarta, but when we were attacked at the airport by timeshares and taxi cabs, I have to admit I was very overwhelmed. Knowing hardly any Spanish at all also made it that much more discouraging. Thankfully my friend Tammy knew a little and that certainly helped.

Where we were was so poor. It was so obvious we were not in America anymore. Little kids (two years old) would be riding in the front seat with their heads hanging out the window. The buses were only 30 cents each way. Homes were small and run down. It was one of the most humbling experiences I have ever had.

While we were there we decided to go to church and the spirit was so strong. It was testimony meeting and I didn't understand a word spoken, yet I knew it was real. I thought the people were wonderful. It was my favorite part of the whole vacation.

We flew to Cancun 4 days into our trip to escape a hurricane and being in Cancun was like being in America. It was so beautiful. But I wouldn't trade the experience of Puerto Vallarta.

I missed my kids and husband but was able to Skype them every night. It was wonderful! Chris was an amazing dad while I was gone, and I came back appreciating him and my kids more than ever. I am thankful that he is a husband that encourages me to spread my wings and seek adventure. I am not unaware that many husbands would have not been keen on the idea (and understandably), but he never blinked an eye...and I love him for that.

So, all in all? I loved Mexico...but if I ever leave the country again, it will be to a new and exciting place. But I have a feeling it won't be for a few more years. :)

Love you girls...

2011-10-04T21:28:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love girlfriends, and girls nights. And when there's pedicures, dinner and dessert all wrapped up in one? I'm one happy girlfriend, myself. There's nothing like being able to talk to other girls about life, concerns, and raising kids, etc. And no matter what, I always come away feeling validated, relaxed, and happy. Oh, and the laughter is something I couldn't live without. Thanks girls for being so awesome in my life.

Being happy...

2011-09-29T10:32:00.000-07:00

I was talking to my husband last night about how I just feel so happy. The older I get the happier I feel. Of course I have my down days like we all do, but I just feel so blessed. I love the beautiful part of the country I live in. The mountains, the mild weather (minus the rain) and the greenness of everything. When I run, I am amazed at the beauty that surrounds me...even when I am trudging up a miserable hill, I can't ignore it. I almost don't want to write this because something terrible might happen because I did, but I can't help it. I am grateful for my husband and my 6 children. It amazes me how they are each so different and unique and I learn so much from each of them. I'm grateful to have truth, peace and happiness in my life. I owe it all to a Heavenly father who must loves me (don't ask me why)but I'm sure glad he does.

Race day photo's...

2011-09-24T17:14:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share a few photo's from our actual race. Yes, by the end I looked like I had been ran over by a truck, and yes it's only been a week and I'm ready to do it again. That's messed up. :)

You go girl! Tacoma half marathon...

2011-09-19T12:15:00.000-07:00

My friend and I decided to take on another 1/2 marathon. This time it was the You Go Girl, in Tacoma Washington. We have been super nervous about this one because we haven't been training as intensely as we have in the past. We still run lots, but not as fast. So we were a little (okay, a lot) worried. When we arrived in Tacoma after checking into our hotel the first thing on the agenda was to drive the course. We had heard it could be hilly and were anxious to see for ourselves. Bad idea. If we were scared before, we were now petrified. The course is basically 7 miles of hills. Hill after hill, after lovely hill. I am not joking. After we drove it, our goal went from a sub two hours, to "who cares anymore....let's just have fun." That night, we roamed the old downtown Tacoma. It was so much fun. I don't know why, but I loved it there. We stopped by the cutest, yummiest cupcake shop (Hello, cupcake) and it was the best cupcake I have EVER tasted in my life. We walked around the glass museum, and just enjoyed the cool air. Even with a rainy mist, it was just so relaxing and a great getaway from everyday life. We had lots of laughs as usual and are ever so grateful to the men in our lives that give us the chance to periodically get away.

The race. Our alarms went off at 7am, and we had got a long, good night's rest thank goodness. But both of us dreaded the race because we knew what was in store for us. We forged ahead though. We started at a descent pace of 8:30's to 9:00's for the first two miles, and at mile two the hills started. We did all we could to focus and just get up the hills. We took it at a descent pace of around 9:30's to 10:00's. Then we would have a few downhills where we could pick up speed to make up for the lack thereof on the hills. Tammy's IT band had major issues, but she just kept going, and never gave up. The last 1/4 mile we planned to pick up major speed but surprise!! another hill (steep) right before our eye's. We wanted to kill someone, but we did it. What choice did we have?! We both sped up and crossed the finish hand in hand.

We had no idea what to expect when we went into it, but were happy to finish at 1:58:05. Not a PR, but that is okay. This course made my last one look like a piece of cake. It for me, was shockingly one of my favorite races. It opened my eyes to the fact that the body can do really hard things even if we think it can't. But I will not do it again despite the fact that we did okay. Too many hills for this little wimpy girl. I will try to stick to a little flatter for the future. But will always be grateful for the experience of something new. Running the finish with my best friend was my favorite part of the whole thing. Getting through it without having to be alone, made up for the difficulty of the race. We helped each other keep going.

After the race we went straight to the hotel (limped that is) and got into the hot tub in our running clothes. Changing into swimsuits would have taken too much energy. And our last stop before heading home to our husband's and children, was the cupcake shop again for one last delicious cupcake...and one for each of our family members too. Just a little thanks to them for letting us do fun, new things.

I know you!!!

2011-09-14T22:06:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite scenes from the movie Hook is when one of Lost Boys realizes it's Peter Pan. The little black boy touches Peter's face for a good minute (as if peeling layers off of him) , and says "Oh there you are Peter!" That's how I feel about my Scarlett, since my kids started school. Ever since she was born it has never been just her. Since school began, I have been spending 4 hours a day, with just her and I. I really do feel like I am peeling layers from her, and saying to myself..."Oh there you are Scarlett." It's a wonderful feeling. I love to hold her in my arms while rocking her in the rocking chair, singing "Rock A Bye Baby." I love to read books to her. I love to have her follow me around while I clean house and do laundry. I miss my Grace, and all of my other lovely children, but it's good to see Scarlett through new eyes.

Camping with The Brennan's...

2011-08-29T14:53:00.000-07:00

We started a tradition last year of going camping with our favorite family, the Brennan's. We have been friends with them forever, and wouldn't have it any other way. Our kids had a blast... playing either on the boat, or on shore. We roasted marshmellows, ate yummy food and drank way more soda than should be allowed. I screamed my head off while tubing with Tammy. I think her ears almost fell off, but she loves me enough to look past my weirdness. We love you Brennan's...until next year.

Water Skiing...

2011-08-27T21:37:00.000-07:00

I never in my life would have guessed that water skiing could be so difficult. I tried a few times last weekend, and was not successful. I decided that I would learn this weekend, no.matter.what. I literally fell hard many, many times. I got to where I was so mad that I couldn't do it, that I would do it until I could. Finally I was able to rise above the water, and stay up for a good amount of time. I have to say though, Austin and Connor tried it for the very first time, and both, of them...BOTH, got up the 2nd time, and stayed up every time after that. Hmmmm....must be nice. I was very impressed and proud.

I love you Josh Groban...

2011-08-27T21:24:00.000-07:00

Back in March I got Chris and I tickets to see Josh Groban. If you don't know who he is, you need to asap. The night before the concert I told Chris that I was in love with Josh Groban and I hoped that wasn't upsetting to him. He said "that's okay, because I'm in love with him too." And I have to say, after hearing him live, we are both even more in love with him. The concert was about 2 hours long, but I wanted it to be at least another hour. His voice was amazing in every sense of the word. And to my surprise he was hilarious. He was a musical paragon, and comedian all wrapped up in one. Worth every last penny and more. Until next time Josh...

And then there was one...

2011-08-24T11:34:00.001-07:00

Don't refrigerators make great backdrops? Especially when they are covered in fingerprints.

Today was a sad, happy, weird kind of day. The kids started school. Even Grace started preschool. I only have one child home with me. Right before I dropped the kids off Austin said to me "Poor Scarlett will be all alone!" I said to him "Are you kidding?! She's going to LOVE it!!" I have to admit, having her all to myself will be a huge blessing, even for just a few hours a day. She's never had that, and being the youngest of 6..I think she deserves it.

Hoping for a great, happy, wonderful school year...

I love my family so much...

2011-08-16T11:07:00.000-07:00

Chris' mom and 5 siblings came to stay with us from Utah for over two weeks. It was such a house full. We literally had all five bedrooms in the house completely full, and still had stick Chris' brother Dennis on the couch.

We had a great time boating three weekends in a row. Picking blackberries and making pies. Playing Mafia, sardines, and all kinds of fun games. It was tons of laughter. Yes, there were times where we felt crammed, and there was lots of chaos, but it was worth the memories created.

I learned from Chris' teenage siblings that they are such great kids. Every single day almost, Natasha age 17, would ask to borrow my scriptures. She would read for a long, long time too. Dennis age 16 talked about how he literally can't wait to serve a mission. All the kids glowed with a testimony of the gospel, and seemed to know who they really are. Chris' mom and dad have done such a terrific job raising these kids. And especially his mom because she has done it alone since my father in law passed away 3 years ago. They were an example to me, and I am grateful to have had so much time to get to know who they really are.

Mummy, will you play with us??

2011-07-28T10:42:00.000-07:00

The kids and I have a game that has brought lots of laughter and tons of loud screaming into our house. It's called "Mummy." It's where I basically chase them around the house with my eyes zoned out, and my hands and arms extended. This game would go on forever if it were up to the kids. I love to hide around unsuspecting corners, and jumping out at them. Even Scarlett absolutely loves this dark, creepy side of me. I didn't know I had such a talent for being an evil scary person, but I'll take it.

I think I'm ready to talk about it...

2011-07-26T12:26:00.000-07:00

So, we recently got a couple of kittens. Cutest kittens ever. I am not much of an animal person, but even I liked these kittens. Plus, they were only 6 weeks old, and so little and dependent, and I am a nurturer...so I enjoyed helping nurture these sweet little things. We had been keeping them in a large cage the last two weeks, (the size of a standard packing box) until they were older to keep them from running away or getting hurt. We would take them out each day and play with them and get their wiggles out.

On Sunday we had some 90 degree weather coming our way. That morning (like every Sunday morning for us) was a little crazy trying to get everyone ready and out the door. I left Halee and Austin home because Halee had some teeth pulled a few days before and Austin stayed behind to keep her company. The kittens were left in their cage, on our back porch. I asked the kids before we left if they had water and they said "a little." I thought a little, would be enough until we got home. I was wrong.

When we got home, I immediately went to check on the kittens, and to my shock they were both dead. The kids found them too, and were so sad and mostly shocked at first. They were stiff and it looked as though they had been dead for at least an hour. I never grew up with pets. We had one dog, that we gave away. I had never had a pet die, and my children haven't either. We all went inside, and I don't know what happened to me, but I lost it. I started crying, and I COULD.NOT.STOP. Chris tried to calm me down, and I just kept crying. This went on for 1/2 an hour. I tried! Pretty soon (and to no surprise)Connor and Christian started crying too. We buried the kittens, and all cried some more.

I have been trying to figure out why I cried so hard, and I still cringe with guilt whenever I remember finding them. I have come to the conclusion that it's not the fact that the kittens died, or are gone...it's because they suffered, in that hot sun, with no water, and no shade. It was all my fault. I should have known better. At least that's how it felt. I felt like I killed the kittens. It made me think of the mother I saw on Oprah a few years back, that accidentally left her child in her car when she went to work, thinking the child was with her husband...and later finding her dead in her car seat on a day where temps were above 90 degree's. I cried for that mom when I was crying for these kittens. She must have felt horrible inside for not being able to save her child. I have decided to stop blaming myself. I have learned though. I will never let something like this happen again to anyone, or anything.

We will miss the kittens, but I am so grateful that even though my kids were upset, each one of them, at one point, said "at least they are in heaven, in a happy place."

The day my children became orphans...

2011-07-23T16:10:00.000-07:00

You know those days where your kids are bored out of their mind, and all you want to do is turn on the T.V or let them play computer games just to keep them out of your hair? Well, on this day we turned to more creative/weird things. The girls became baby orphans. I was the owner of the orphanage. We pretended that they had been abandoned on our doorstep. I wrapped them up nice and tight in a blanket and they absolutely loved it. I will admit, I don't play with my kids nearly as often as I should, but when I do...I never regret it.

Halee's Trek update...

2011-07-17T23:42:00.000-07:00

Hi, this is Halee, I'm not gonna lie, I seriously did not want to go on trek. I tried to find any kind of loop hole to get out of it. If you know me I am pretty shy, and I do not like being put out of my comfort zone. So when my parents told me I had to go, I was pretty angry. but now that I went I am VERY HAPPY they forced me to go.
One of the experiences on the trek that I had that was hard, is that on the second day, all the boys had to leave their families to go to "war". This meant that the girls had to push the handcarts without them up a very steep hill. Half way up the hill we could see the boys and they were cheering us on, but they couldn't help us yet. But when the leaders said they could help us, they jumped in there as fast as they could and took off! They didn't just lazy around, I mean they rushed in and gave all the girls a break and pushed it the rest of the way up the steep hill. I thought that was pretty cool.
Pushing that handcart everyday, for miles and miles, really helped me realize what the pioneers went through. And we only got a small taste of it, and let me tell you, it was very hard work! I think it is so amazing that the pioneers did that for the gospel. And that shows that the gospel really is true. Because seriously, who wants to hike over miles and miles of hills, and through deep muddy water for a stupid and pointless cause?.... not anyone I know! So I am just really happy I went, and if I could do it again I would do it in a heart beat. I really had an amazing experience on trek!

Rodeo 10k and 3k...

2011-07-16T23:54:00.000-07:00

Austin and I decided very last minute to run a race in association with the rodeo that came to town. We drug our tired little rears out of bed...all kids and Chris in tow, and headed to the race around 6:15am. This is very early for me. I hate getting up early...but I am glad I did it.

Austin did so awesome. We started out and when the whistle blew, everyone took off as fast as they could possibly go. Austin started to do the same, but I reeled him in, and assured him that he would most likely pass a lot of those people who were using up all their running fuel in the first half mile. He was glad he used the tactic because he came in 3rd in his age, and got a medal and that made his day. Plus, he thought I was the smartest mom on earth (no need to tell him that I only learned that from true experienced runners, and websites I have researched. It pays to have google.)

I enjoyed the race too. It was a little warmer than I like. If it's above 60 degree's, it's too warm to race in, but it rained which made it much more enjoyable. I started out running around a 9 min, pace. I saw two women ahead and decided to make them my motivation. I finally passed them (barely) and was so afraid of them catching me, it kept me motivated to keep up a decent pace. I kept invisioning them saying to each other in a devilish voice "Let's take that girl OUT." It actually made me run faster...It's okay to think that I'm weird...It is true..I am.

I averaged exactly the same pace I averaged the last time I raced this course. 8:38. I was happy with it, but I would have like an 8:37 better, just so I could have PR'd.

All in all, it was a blast. And you know what the best part was? All of my kids (minus Halee, because she was still at Trek) yelling and cheering me in. It made me proud...not to be a runner, but to a mother of so many children.

You can do hard things...

2011-07-15T11:36:00.000-07:00

I have been the wicked witch of the Northwest for around 6 months now. Around the month of January we found out our church would be taking the youth (ages 12 through 18) on a pioneer trek. They would be pushing handcarts for many, many miles. There would be about 300 kids involved. When Halee found out about it, she said there was no way on earth she would be going. She was afraid. Unfortunately for her, she has a very mean, nasty mother that said she was going, whether she liked it or not. Ever since that day, she has been mad at the fact that we were making her go. And the closer it got, the more she worried her little head off. There were times where I questioned our decision in making her go, but I prayed about it tons, and the feeling I got, very strongly...almost like a slap in the face, was that for some reason, heavenly father wanted her there, and Satan did not.

I have asked my parents many times the question "If you could do anything different in the way you raised us, what would it be?" They always say, they would have found ways and situations in which to strengthen our testimonies on a greater level. I personally think my parents did a great job in raising us, but I have taken them saying that, and am trying to apply it to my own life and family. Plus, when it comes to the pioneers, and all they sacrificed, my heart swells like no other. I truly love these people I have never met, and feel a connection with them, in mine and their love for the gospel.

Halee left for the trek yesterday and comes home tomorrow. I am so relieved she is there. I am so relieved that I don't have to be viewed as the evil wicked mother anymore. I can't wait to have her home. I am going to have her post on our blog some of her experiences tomorrow or the next day. I have a feeling it's going to be a really good update.

Boating makes me smile....

2011-07-14T16:21:00.000-07:00

Our boat is the greatest family time investment we have made. I have no regrets about getting this lovely little piece of heaven. It is something we can all do, and have fun together. Plus, it was a great price. This is our third Summer with it, and we were finally able to take it out last Saturday. The kids had so much fun. We spent about 5 hours on the water. Our favorite thing to do, isn't tubing or skiing, but just parking the boat in the middle of nowhere and letting the kids play on the tube in the water. We just kick back and eat lots of yummy food, and get a little vitamin D. The getting tan part is actually kind of nice too. Now if only we could get some more sunny days...

Judge me if you want...

2011-07-12T12:53:00.000-07:00

But I am just not ready to take Scarlett off a bottle. Yes, she did turn two on June 25th. But the bottle is the love of her life, and once it's gone, she won't be my baby quite as much, and neither of us are ready for that. So, cut me a little slack...after all, she IS my last.:)

I like you...I like you a lot.

2011-07-08T16:02:00.001-07:00

I have been thinking a lot about my brother in law that lost his wife six months ago. I have been thinking about how hard it must be to keep on living. How much his girls must want to see their mother. It breaks my heart. I know there is a purpose in it all...but, boy oh boy, it is hard to see it sometimes.

It makes me feel grateful to have Chris in my life. He is my rock...and I know at any time, I could be asked to go through the same thing. Losing, a husband, or even a child. I need these reminders so I remember to tell my family I love them. To forget about the little messes the kids leave. To not get so mad at Halee for leaving her hair straightener and makeup out for the millionth time. For not caring that the boys are so loud sometimes, I want to chop my own ear off. To pick and choose what I feel the need to argue about with my husband.

I am thankful for all these little dears in my life. And more grateful that I can be with them forever...no matter what happens today or tomorrow.

Christian's Birthday...

2011-06-30T12:48:00.000-07:00

My little boy turned 7 on the 29Th. One more year until the big baptism. He is a cowboy at heart, just like his dad. This is why we got him play guns for his b-day. Yep, you heard me right....and next year, maybe even a BB gun. We love you little man.

What would I do without you??

2011-06-30T12:36:00.000-07:00

I love having a little testosterone in this house. I don't know why, but lately I have felt so grateful to have boys. I now they can be messy and loud, and break everything I own, but all that pales in comparison to what they bring to the table.

Just the other day we went on a drive that I was unfamiliar with. After driving for a good 1/2 hour, I went up another road...stopped to look at some kittens for sale, and went back the way (or so I thought)I came. After about 5 minutes Austin and Connor say "Mom? Where are you taking us?" I said "I'm going back home." They said "Then why are we getting closer and closer to the mountain?" Oops...they were right. It was like a had little compasses hanging out in my car. I love feeling protected. Not only do I have this luxury in my husband but also in three wonderful boys that love me so much.

Scarlett's enchanting b-day...

2011-06-27T11:57:00.000-07:00

My baby is now two years old. I got it in my head somewhere down the line that once a child turns two, they are no longer a baby. Is this true?? Tell me it's not, please. In the words of Scarlett O'Hara.."I'll think about that tomorrow."

We took the kids for a day trip to see the Enchanted Forest. They had so much fun. We haven't been in 5 years, and I worried that the bigger kids would be bored. But they were not. Even I wasn't. I guess our whole family is just a bunch of kids at heart. The weather was perfect and the kids were awesome.

We got home and had chocolate cake and celebrated Scarlett's big day. It was a perfect day.

Nice teeth...

2011-06-24T11:45:00.000-07:00

Only the daughter of a Denturist...

Austin turns 11...

2011-06-24T11:40:00.000-07:00

My little (not so little) Austin turned 11 on the 16Th. Yes, I now get to start worrying about all that puberty stuff that will be hitting anytime now. I'm so happy that Chris can help me out in this department.

We love you Austin. Without your fun sense of humor, life would be a little bit more dull in our household. Keep being you, because you are amazing.

Directions To Our Home...

2011-06-22T11:59:00.000-07:00

Christian told me yesterday that he wants his friend Scotty to come over really, really bad. He said he even gave him really good directions. He says "Mom, I told him to go up the hill and turn. Go past the store. Turn. Go up another hill. Turn. Keep going, and it's at the top of the hill."

Something tells me, Scotty won't make it to our house anytime soon.

Hello Summer...

2011-06-21T19:26:00.000-07:00

I love long, lazy Summer evenings. It's when a root beer float becomes an absolute necessity.

Epic Relay 2011...

2011-06-19T19:56:00.000-07:00

I am having some weird issues trying to get this post done correctly, to where the pics make sense with what I am saying, but blogger is being a big meanie...and I have tried to solve the problem for over an hour now, and well, I give up. So, just try to fit the pic to the text by scrolling down as you read. I hope that makes sense. :)

This weekend I had the opportunity to run in a relay. 12 of us women ran from Eugene to Portland and covered over 150 miles. We were separated into two vans consisting of 6 in each van. We would then basically rotate and each take 3 different legs in length and have rest times in between runners. We ran all day and and all night with a few rest periods. I know it sounds like a miserable thing to put yourself through, but I have to say it is one of my favorite running experiences I have had so far. It wasn't just an adrenaline rush like running a half marathon is. It went even further than that. It was a time to bond with women. To work as a team. To cheer each other on, and give each other encouragement. To learn from each other. It was truly wonderful and I would do again in a heart beat. If you aren't friends with someone before you do a relay with them, you will be by the time your'e finished. Here are a few pics of how the weekend went.

The night before the relay we all stayed at the Crown Plaza. We of course couldn't pass up a chance to eat out. Girls nights wouldn't be the same without good food, staying out late, and laughing our heads off.

Getting ready to start the relay. You know the cold weather we have had for a loong time? Well, it went bye bye real fast, which normally would make me very happy. It just so happens though, that I hate running in hot weather. And boy, by 3pm it was nice and toasty
This is where I would run my first leg of the race, and longest run of the race...6.82 miles, in the hot sun. I was pretty pathetic afterward, but just like any race, the payoff was well worth it.

With each of our runners we decided with the heat issue, that spraying them halfway through their run would help. It was a lifesaver for all our runners. This is Kim and I coming to Jamie's rescue. Jamie ran this race with little running experience and yet she smiled so much, and had such an upbeat attitude, that we named her grill (for her smile.)She also did an excellent job with running.

One of our runners ended up feeling as though she had the flu, and another one of our girls was having serious issues with a possible foot fracture. We just so happened upon some guys from BYU who were also running the race, and asked them if they could give a few priesthood blessings. They said of course, and oddly enough one was a Podiatrist. The greatest part is that the runners were able to run with absolutely no issues after their blessings. It was such a neat thing to see the priesthood work, and to be with women, who had faith that it would.

Trying to fit in a little shut eye here and there. We got about 2 hours sleep total.

It was awesome to finish in our custom made Girls In The Hood shirts...

Every girl that ran in this race in my eyes, is completely amazing. I love all of these women and after running with them in this relay, they will each hold a special place in this little runners heart.

Missing my Mamaw Billy...

2011-06-10T12:05:00.000-07:00

Growing up in the state of Georgia was such a blessing to me. Though I prefer living where I am now, the South will always hold a special place in my heart. Whenever I eat foods like fried chicken, okra, cornbread, or fried green tomatoes, it brings back that warm special feeling. But biscuits especially, bring back wonderful memories because they remind me of my sweet, sweet Mamaw Billy. She is no longer alive but she was the awesomest (is that a word?) Mamaw a girl could have asked for. I was blessed with two beautiful Mamaw's in fact. I consider myself very lucky indeed. But whenever we went to my Mamaw Billy's house, there was always a fresh pan of homemade biscuits sitting on the counter top with a cloth on top of them. She made them everyday. Comfort food at it's best. She was a great cook, make that excellent cook, and enjoyed feeding friends and family. She made the greatest desserts, and Thanksgiving at her house was something you looked forward to, if you liked to eat. She lived in a little, humble brick house, but that didn't matter. It was a time to visit, eat, and just be with family.

Another thing I loved about her, is that she would give you the shirt off her back if you asked. I remember being around 5 years old and she let me look through her jewelry box and I found a ring that I thought was stunning. I asked her in a very timid way ( I was so shy and cautious) if I could keep it. She didn't even hesitate. She just said "of course you can honey."

She not only gave of material items, she gave of her time. She took care of sick friends, who couldn't even feed themselves, without even blinking an eye. She didn't do it to be seen or noticed, she did it because that is who she was.

A stranger came to her door one day claiming to be her son's long time friend. He said he needed money. My Mamaw didn't have any money to spare. She lived a very humble lifestyle. But being the woman she is, she gave him a $20 bill, no questions asked. I probably would have told him to take a hike. But not my Mamaw. She was a true paragon of charity. I hope to be like her one day. I have a long way to go...

Girls...

2011-06-07T15:34:00.000-07:00

These are the kinds of things you see when little girls live in your home...

Here we go again...

2011-06-07T15:19:00.000-07:00

I did it. I got another animal, which I pretty much swore I would never again do. You see, I was taken to family court the other day by my son Austin who claimed that he and his siblings are the only kids left on the earth without an animal. He also touched on the fact that we have gotten dogs, cats, birds, fish, hamsters...(you name it, we've tried it) and given them away. What could I say? He is right. And it didn't help that he had 5 other little witnesses to back up his claims. But oh, how I hate animals. Yet being the guilt ridden mother that I am, Chris and I decided to try one more thing that we haven't tried yet....baby bunnies. I think I can handle this. They are outside in a cage. They poop in the cage and not in my yard. They don't make any noise. They keep themselves clean. And they keep my kids outside, instead of inside, wreaking havoc in the house. So, there ya go...pray for my poor deprived children that this one lasts more than a week.

Puzzle Pieces...

2011-06-06T12:18:00.000-07:00

My first child was the easiest time of my mothering life, I must say. I had two, and still felt ahead of the game. Three???...not so much. Having number three stands out to me as a time where I realized this wasn't near as easy as a thought. It's also when I realized that I didn't have as much patience as I had always thought I had. Still though, we made the shot for number 4, and what came out? A little boy that never made a cry or a noise. He was the quietest baby ever. He was also kind of serious. He would just look at me with those blond curls and blue eyes, all serious and quiet and adorable. I think sometimes that Heavenly father sends us our children in a certain order on purpose. Christian came so that I would be willing to have two more. I have to admit though, he is now one of my loudest children.

Having lots of children also means less time for each of them. It doesn't have to mean less quality though. And it will never mean, that they are a lesser piece of the puzzle. I love them each with all this big mama heart, and I wouldn't trade one single one of them.

Conjoined twins and random toilets...

2011-06-03T15:53:00.000-07:00

Why wear two separate shirts, when you can both fit into one? Maybe they're trying to rid our house of too much unnecessary laundry? Hmm...I'm thinking it only added to the two shirts they were wearing before this picture was taken. And yes, that is my 2 year old with a toilet on her head...don't ask.

Shhhhhh....it's a secret.

2011-06-02T10:11:00.000-07:00

Pssst....come closer...I have a secret to tell you, but you have to promise not to say anything, especially to Connor. Yep, he tried to shave. My 9 year old TRIED TO SHAVE. Obviously not very succesfully. Still trying to figure out why he shaved under his eye, rather than on his chin.

I'm singing in the rain....make that running.

2011-05-31T21:32:00.000-07:00

This past week and a half have been lonely running days for me. My best friend and running partner is having some IT band issues (boo boo's around the knee area) and is out of commission for a short time until she can get healed up. I must say that I don't really like to run alone. Sometimes it's nice to have the time to think about life, but mostly it is just plain BORING. I have been dragging my poor husband along for runs as long as 6 miles, and he really has been awesome about it considering he usually runs around 3. Today I had to run alone because he and I ran last night and we ran harder than usual...for him especially, because he hasn't been running that long. Tonight when I ran, it was pouring like you wouldn't believe. I thought before I started that it would be miserable. It wasn't though. In fact it wasn't all that cold out (63 degree's) and it felt so refreshing. It made running the hills much easier. But you should have seen me. I was drenched from head to toe. I could barely see just from all the water (mixed with sweat)dripping down my face. I totally should have taken a picture.

When I first started running, my friend and I decided if we were going to do this, and really stick to it, we had to take on any, and all weather conditions because we new if we weren't consistent, we would never last. I read a quote today that I really appreciated, especially in light of my run tonight. It goes like this... “Runner’s don’t get rained out, they get rained on.” And I have, many times. In fact rain to me, is much more inviting then this past winters ice, freezing temps, and snow galore. I love knowing that I can do it, even though it absolutely and positively is not easy, and I do get very discouraged at times...I know I can do it, if it's really what I want...and it is.

Scoot your tush over please...

2011-05-31T10:14:00.000-07:00

We had a fabulous Memorial Day Holiday spent with my family. Gosh, I love going to see them. But, this is what our car looks like whenever, and wherever we go. Does anyone realize how full this car is? You have to see a picture to realize how overly packed it is. Imagine then, packing for 8 people? It can be 3 days, or it can be 7. Either way, it's going to take at least 2 large suitcases that you have to sit on in order to get zipped, and several small bags. That doesn't include camera cases, mini DVD players, movies, diaper bags pack 'n' play, etc. The list goes on. Oh, and of course my good old box fan. If you who know me well, you know that I cannot sleep without the luscious noise of my loud fan. I blame my mom for this. She made sure we had one while we slept from the day we entered the world. Anyway, without a doubt we have a lot of crap to bring wherever we go, and somehow or another, I still love to travel with my family. Someone shoot me please.

Home...

2011-05-26T12:28:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of our home that we have hanging in our playroom. It was left behind by the previous owners, and I am so glad because I just love it. I was holding Scarlett the other day when she looked over at it and said in high pitched voice of excitment..."It's home!!" She has seen this hanging a million times but it was like she figured out for the 1st time, that it was home. I have to say...this home that we live in to me really is home. The chipping paint, the creaky floors, the porches that are ancient and so desperately needing replaced do not matter to me, because for some reason, it really is home. I can walk out on my porch (when it's sunny that is) and feel in my heart that there is no place I would rather be. I think I was meant to be some farmers wife. I guess Chris could be the farmer? Nah, there is no time for that unfortunately. But I want my kids to feed chickens! I want to see them dirty from head to toe. I want them to run around with bare feet! I want them to own bb guns and be a little on the red neck side...(okay...very little) but a little nonetheless. I feel very blessed to live in a place that regardless of age, means everything to this little (big) family. Without Heavenly Father's help, we wouldn't be here. We would still be stuck in a neighborhhod jammed packed up against other neighbors. Neighbors are nice, but I gotta tell ya.... for me...privacy, and room is much nicer. I feel so blessed to call this old place home.

Friends...and a heck of a lot of laughter

2011-05-26T12:15:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure that having friends in my life makes me a happier person. Yes, I am happy being a mom and a wife too, and cherish like you wouldn't believe my date nights with just Chris and I, but being able to be with other people and have fun and create friendships, to me is awesome. I was watching BYU last night and there was an interview with John Grey, Author of Men Are From Mars Women Are From Venus and he talked about that when women get together, the hormone oxytocin is released and it makes women actually feel happier. I believe it. The husbands are fun to hang out with too though. But without other girls in my life I think I would go a little cray cray.

Have you heard the rumor?

2011-05-24T12:02:00.001-07:00

Well guess what? It is actually real...I am officially the mother of a teenager. How did this happen you ask? Somebody please tell me.

The day Halee bug was born, I refused to let the nurses keep her in the nurses station so I could sleep. She would remain with me no matter what they said. I may have barely been 20, but nobody was going to talk me into having my baby away from me for more than 5 minutes.

I swear to you, that it seems like a minute ago Halee was just starting Kindergarten. I remember when she started I couldn't bear the thought of having her away at school for full day kindergarten, so I asked the teacher if I could pick her up at lunch and bring her home after. The teacher said okay, but after a few days Halee spread her wings and flew. She asked to stay at school during lunch. I tried!

When Halee hit 8 and it was time to get baptized I now had 4 children and with that comes (at least for me) a more relaxed parenting style. I didn't follow her around anymore and instead of trying to keep her close, I started doing what I knew was important, and pushing her to do hard things.

When Grace was born, Halee was almost 11. I didn't like that she was getting older, but, she was still young, and had many, many more years to grow older. That was two years ago.

The part that really hits home, or should I say a sensitive spot, is that it has been 8 years since she started Kindergarten, and like I said it seems like a minute ago. Guess how many years until she leaves the nest? 5. Yep, you saw it right...5 more measly years. What a beautiful, wonderful child she is to me. Her testimony of the gospel is so real and so big. She may be young, but she is a wise soul. She is learning that she really is capable of doing hard things< I feel truly blessed that even though life is so short and it really does fly by, that I have been chosen to raise these beautiful people to adulthood. My advice to mommies of really little ones? The same advice all the sweet old ladies gave me...enjoy it. It really does go by so fast it's almost like you're watching a movie and you want to hit the pause button, but you can't. I am still learning...and I still have many special little people to raise...I am so thankful for that. Now when they all leave the nest?? Hmmmm...I may be taking up meds by then. Not sure how this little heart will handle it.

Happy 13th my sweet Halee....

Halee had just turned 7 here.

I grew up...

2011-05-17T10:40:00.000-07:00

Today Grace and I were talking about when she was born. She loves to hear all about this kind of stuff. I told her how cute she was, and that she cried a lot for the first several hours because she was in a big, new world, and that I cuddled her to make her feel safe. She then pipes in and says "and then do you know what happened? I grew up." I smiled and laughed a little at her cuteness, but also felt a little sting, because she is right. In a few short years she will grow up. For now though, she is little, and I will love every minute of it.

Family Portraits...

2011-05-17T10:36:00.000-07:00

Chris was outside this morning taking the trash out when he found a drawing of our family. One of the kids had drawn us on a piece of wood. He came into me and said "I have a problem. Do I really look like that?" I assured him that he doesn't at all resemble stick figures, and that his beard is much hotter in person, and he doesn't look 80 years old. We both got a great laugh. Thanks kids.

Hiding from Mama...

2011-05-17T10:33:00.000-07:00

Yes, this would be the feet of my little Scarlett hiding. I am thinking she loves to torture me when she knows I am worried because I cannot find her. Luckily though, this hiding spot wasn't her most clever choice for being invisible.

Football With Papaw...

2011-05-17T10:30:00.000-07:00

My parents were here the weekend, and we had such a great time. I absolutely love that my children have wonderful people in their lives. I need more than just myself to teach them and help them to understand important life things. It's great to have parents that love my children and have fun with them too!

The Tale Of A Butterfly

2011-05-13T11:30:00.000-07:00

A social butterfly that is. Grace absolutely loves socializing. She is always begging me to have friend's over. Whenever her friends arrive they seems to transform into Princesses within minutes. I love to hear the "click, click, click" of their princess shoes running across my hardwood floors. If I could make this age last forever, I would do it in a hear beat.

Mother's Day

2011-05-13T11:18:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, Chris asked me what I wanted for Mother's Day. I told him that all I really wanted was for he and the kids to do all the cooking, and cleaning (even the dreaded laundry.)So after church, Chris made me go to my room and he made a delicious lunch. After lunch I laid down, but the only problem was, I wouldn't get back up. I realize I need to do this more on Sunday afternoons. The kids laid on my bed too and everyone just hung out. It was awesome.

Close to the end of the "mom lays around day, this was the look on my husbands face. Thank goodness this time only comes around once a year, and oops! I think it may become an annual tradition. but he took all the cooking/cleaning/etc. in stride and I told him it was the best Mother's Day ever. I love Mother's Day more than birthdays by far, because I get to celebrate being a mom. My children are best thing that ever, ever, EVER happened to me! Oh, and Chris too, of course.

Eugene women's half marathon 2010....

2011-05-05T12:57:00.000-07:00

Eugene Women's half was definitely my hardest race, of all races. I started out too fast, and nearly burnt out by mile 6. The last 7 were completely miserable. That's what made me so determined to get faster and more adept at running and listening to my body and pushing it to it's limits, but also knowing when to slow her down. I still have a long way to go.

Smith Rock 2010

2011-05-05T12:41:00.000-07:00

So, one thing I never did, which I am now doing, is I never put my official racing pics on here! This is my first half marathon that I did at Smith Rock. It was a warm July morning, where I was drenched with sweat and water (from pouring it on my head at every aid station.) This was my first race where I said to myself "you are truly an idiot for doing such a tiring, exhausting, thing that you're now stuck having to finish." But realizing in the end it was so worth it. This was my fist experience racing a race, and it holds a special little place in my heart.

Website pics from Eugene half marathon 2011

2011-05-05T12:24:00.000-07:00

So these aren't exactly in order. Feeling good in this pic. I think taken around the halfway point.

Sooooo happy they got some shots of Tammy and I. Without her, the race would have been loooonnnnng and boring, and not to mention lonely. She's my running partner several days a week, so why not in the race??

If this isn't enough people to get you pumped up, I don't know what is.

Okay, so I like running, and this picture is the very last little bit of the race...I'm talking the last 10Th...but the lady beside me needs to share with me whatever it is she's taking to make her look and feel so euphoric.

Happy Birthday sweet little Grace...

2011-05-03T15:37:00.000-07:00

Grace Elisabeth was born on May 1st. My May day baby. It was a sunny day and I went into the Midwife begging to be induced a few days early. The lady had pity on me, and agreed...I can very pushy if I'm truly desperate. Sometimes I wish I could tuck her right back into my tummy though, her and all of my babies. I miss having them so close, but am amazed to see each of them grow and blossom into beautiful, wonderful people that I just so happen to adore.

A few things I love about this girl of mine? She will cuddle all day long if you'll let her, and often times, that is just what this mama needs. She also has a funny sense of humor. She is a social butterfly that loves to spend time with friends and even her brothers and sisters. She is nurturing and loving and feels bad when she hurts others. She has a kind heart and loves Scarlett even when Scarlett is yanking on her hair (which happens all the time these days.) All those curls are just too pretty to leave alone I guess. I love you my Grace...You are and angel in our lives and a critical piece to the Chapman family puzzle! Happy Birthday! xoxoxoxoxo

The race is done!

2011-05-02T11:45:00.000-07:00

Alrighty, so here's the update on the race. I have to say, it was my greatest half marathon experience so far. Not necessarily because of my time, but I felt an overwhelming appreciation for hard work, goals, payoff, support, friendship, you name it...I appreciated it. There were over 8000 runners running this race split between a full marathon, 26.2 miles, and the half 13.1 miles. My friend Tammy ran the whole kit and Kaboodle (which she rocked btw) and I did the half. We got to the race around 6:45 and had to use the restrooms right away with all our nervous jitters. We had to stand in line a good 12 minutes and were starting to freak out because we knew the race started t 7am. Thankfully we got there in time and plus the race started 10 minutes late. I had worried with all the people that it would be too crowded and we would be slowed way down, but that really wasn't the case at all. Tammy and I ran together knowing at mile 10 1/2 we would have to split and go our own ways. We started out running about a 9:30 for the 1st mile and then upped our pace to about 8:45 for a few and then around mile 5 we upped it again to between 8:15 and 8:30 for about 3 miles. We had driven the course the night before and knew that at mile 8 a good hill would be coming and would last about a mile. We knew we would have to slow down for that, and we did to about a 9. I don't know what got me up that hill, because I haven't done much hill training, but something did, and when we got to the top of it I felt so good inside to have made it up. I actually had music blaring through my ipod at mile 9ish when tears filled my eyes, and I started crying. I am not a crying person. I couldn't believe I was crying, especially while running, but I was! I was crying because I felt so happy that my mind was telling my body what to do for the 1st time, during a half marathon. For me it's usually the opposite, and my body starts giving up and hating the race. I had trained properly this time and it was paying off, and even though it wasn't fun, and it was work, I knew I was capable of doing it, and I knew my will to do it, would get me there. At mile 11 I did get somewhat discouraged because there were several rolling hills and by this point my legs were burning and I wanted to be done. I slowed down to about a 9 and that helped. At mile 12 I knew there was only one mile left so my spirits started to focus again and I picked it back up to about an 8:45. I could see the finish right around the corner and picked it up to around a 7:55 the very last little bit (we're talking a 10th of a mile.) Crossing the finish was exhilarating. It was at Hayward Stadium, and you finished right below the stands filled with tons of people cheering you on. It.felt.awesome. My finish time was 1:55:56, 8:51 average. One last thing and then I'll shut the heck up. One thing I love about running, is it is a self competitive sport. Yes, you are running with others, but you aren't competing against anyone but yourself...at least for me. I saw people of all ages doing this race. People as old as 60 who came in before me. People who walked the entire half marathon. People who literally collapsed, but were picked up by other runners who cared and understood. I felt appreciation for anyone who would walk even a mile of the race. I think everyone who did the race rocks and deserves a gold medal for giving it everything they had mentally and physically. A race I will never forget. Now, forgive all my pics, but I have to post for my memories. :)

Headed to Eugene, pumped, excited, scared and every other emotion you can think of.

Texting while driving. Just kidding dad! I'm sure this was while we were parked and I can bet it was me texting Chris to tell him and the kids that I love and miss them. Without my husbands support and encouragement I wouldn't be running.

Remember my post about peeing? Yep, still peeing the day before the race. In fact, we pulled over several times having to pee, and it's only 150 miles away! I felt like a little kid who couldn't hold it.

Arriving at the Expo to pick up our packets and look for any extra running gear we just happen upon. Oh, and to sample some yummy brownies too.

Right after we got our packets!

And of course we had to get our pasta overload at Olive Garden. That's the best part of pre race!

Soaking in the hot tub trying to prepare our bodies for the torture they will be going through shortly.

So, there's a story behind this. One of the worst runner fears (at least for me) is having to go to the restroom during a race. and by this I mean #2. This can alter your time dramatically. So, the night before Tammy and I kept trying to find ways to keep this from happening during our race. She finally yells with a question mark "Enema???" and I jumped right on that and said "YES!!!!!!" So, we jump in the car at 10pm (when we should already be asleep) and speed to Alberston's where we buy twin pack Fleet Enema's. Btw, if this is too graphic for you, just remember the last time you went #2, and then you'll remember that we all do it, so read on. With that said, we took pics of us buying them so we could remember this forever, and we looked over at the cash register right after this picture and two checkers are staring at us like we're a little strange. Needles to say, we checked out as quickly as possible took turns in the bathroom and guess what??? It didn't work. Hmmm....at least a lesson was learned and our abs got a great workout from laughing so hard.

Can you believe all the crap you have to bring just for a run?? I almost needed a purse to run with.

Getting ready for my tennis tournament...just kidding. I know that's what it might look like, but it's okay to wear cute clothes to run in, and I love shopping for new run clothes. :)

This is us waiting to get a shuttle to the race. The weather was calling for sun and 70 degrees, but at 6am, it was only about 36. I'm cold just remembering it.

Post race pic. And yes, you have my permission to laugh at my compression socks. But I gotta tell ya, they were worth it, and I do believe they helped every step of the way.

It's was awesome having our good friend Alexis come and support us. Her and I were able to hang out and watch all the runners come in and it wouldn't have been the same without having her there! Plus, when Tammy came in, her loud voice came in handy screaming "TAMMY!!" to the top of her lungs.

I know it looks like I am giving you the finger, but of course I would never do that. It's supposed to be a 1/2 since I didn't do a full marathon. I tried! Tammy and I passed a sign that said "Marathon" on our way down and vowed to stop back on our way back home, so we did.

Let's do this!

2011-04-28T10:54:00.001-07:00

Right now I feel like a little girl at Christmas. My 1/2 marathon race in Eugene, is in 3more days, and I am pumped and excited...okay, a little scared out of my mind but for me that's normal. I have everything packed and ready to go, and now I am doing the countdown. This is a race I actually feel I prepared for. I have been running for over a year now, and I have been training to be faster, (not that fast) but fast for me. I have been drinking gobs of water and peeing my head off, and I have even been eating good this past week. I haven't had any chocolate which is a miracle for me. I have even been making myself get the sleep I need. I am ready, and no matter what my pace ends up being I will be happy to have conquered another goal and know that I worked my butt off to reach it.

A sunny day...'bout time.

2011-04-25T18:26:00.000-07:00

Can I just say that this has been the coldest, rainiest Spring in my life so far?? We finally got a nice sunny day the other day...for the first time in for.ev.er. It was awesome. We took the kids out and did our Easter celebration and some yard work. Scarlett, I must say is totally obsessed with outdoors. We let her play out for a very long time, but all good things must come to an end, right? Not when it comes to Scarlett. When she found out she had to come inside crying, screaming and crocodile tears flew everywhere. Scarlett is the type of child that thinks everything must go her way and within a very short time period or all heck breaks loose. Ya gotta love this little girl though. Who couldn't feel sorry for a face like that? I wouldn't trade her stubbornness for the world.

No more pee pleeeeaaaaasssseeee.....

2011-04-19T18:37:00.000-07:00

Nice post title, huh? I am sorry you have to put up with my crudeness, but I am so sick of peeing I could hurt someone. I decided to set a goal for myself to drink more water. Or should I say to drink water in general. I don't like to drink water unless it's a hot day, or I am running. So, I figured it was time to start. So, yesterday was my first 8 glasses of water day, and I seriously felt so huge and bloated and uncomfortable...I think it's because I drank all 8 within like 6 hours. This wasn't smart on my part. I have done much better today and actually wrote myself a water drinking schedule, and it has worked great. Only problem is, I still have to pee 24/7. I don't get how anyone could actually like drinking this much water. This better have a good payoff because a diet Pepsi sounds so much more inviting right now. Although, chances are...if I drank that, I would still have to go pee.

Reading to my little hens...

2011-04-17T21:06:00.000-07:00

I have said many times on this blog how very much I love reading to my kids. It makes me feel close to them. It makes them feel close to me. It makes me feel like they are being nurtured. It's an overall happy feeling that I like. So as you can imagine, when I was looking around our local toy store recently and saw the classic book The Little Red Hen...I about had a heart attack. I absolutely and positively love this book. It's just the right length. Not too long, not too short and has a good moral. I snatched that little baby up as fast as I could and $4.95 later I was at home reading it to my own little hens. We have read it about 20 times since we bought it a few weeks ago, and just like most Golden Classics, it never grows old.

Trout Lake 10k

2011-04-16T13:03:00.000-07:00

I ran the Trout Lake 10k today and let me tell ya, it wasn't half as fun as the last 10k I ran and a little on the discouraging side. I started out way strong, running at an 8:30 for the 1st 2/1.5 miles, but then a hill hit...not a huge one...in fact very gradual, but it lasted a long time and it was accompanied by some very strong wind gusts. If you know me well, you know that hills are evil and wind is even more evil in my book. Wind keeps me from breathing properly causing me to feel like I will hyperventilate. The feeling sucks. Overall I finished at an average of 8:48. I am happy with the time due to the unfun conditions, but I would have liked to have finished at a quicker pace. Oh well, what did I tell you last time I ran a 10k at an 8:38 pace? You would probably never see me run that fast again?? At least I'm not a liar now. On a greater note, Connor ran the 5k and did awesome! That's a whole 3.1 miles and he hasn't even been training. You rock in the greatest way Connor!!

Bra's aren't for babies...

2011-04-12T10:31:00.000-07:00

Scarlett you have plenty of time before you'll need one of these...and believe me, they aren't all that fun to wear...no need to rush things.

Okay, cut it out...it's not funny anymore.

2011-04-12T10:22:00.000-07:00

Austin will be 11 in a few months and I'm starting to not be okay with it. I am seeing Halee grow into a woman and now Austin is going to start turning into a young man soon? His voice will change? I am not okay with this. I need my little boy to keep his little voice, and to not care about girls or if they are cute or not. I need him to continue to think they have cooties. I don't need facial hair (or any hair other than hair on his head) to present itself. I need my little boy to be a baby again. I know I sound whiny and I complain about the subject of my children growing up wayyyy too often but it's on my mind more than you realize, so whoever reads this blog gets to hear about it...sorry. I love my little guy, along with all of my babies. I don't care what they say, they will be my babies for ever and ever and even hairiness and deep voices etc. will not change that.