The Haphazard Life

Simplify

2012-01-17T16:33:00.000-08:00

Although, I love this blog--I'm feeling a need to simplify things a bit. For a while I've been "maintaining" two blogs. This one, and a *personal one. They both have been sorely neglected--so I'm thinking if I whittle things down a bit I might actually post more. Rather than becoming overwhelmed and not writing anything at all, I'm choosing to pick just one. Like Sophies choice. Kinda.

If you care to keep tabs on my haphazard life you can visit my "other" blog at http://msolivia.blogspot.com

That's not to say, I'll never post here...it'll just take the pressure off, for now.

Ta, ta!

Erin

*Truthfully, the only difference between the blogs is pseudonyms and perhaps a bit more telling. I probably should have merged a long time ago.

try tri again

2012-01-02T22:12:00.000-08:00

The water was warm and unexpectedly pleasant and I didn't want to leave. I'd do the whole distance aquatically if I could. Floating, kicking, stroking my way through the water. The steam from the pool fogged up my goggles when I turned my head to breathe. Phil was my lap counter and I enjoyed not having to remember, because I always forget which lap I'm on. I'm a fast swimmer.

I looked ridiculous, I'll admit to that. My hair was damp and matted from the swim, not that it mattered, it was covered by a black Washington DC street-beanie and topped off with my white helmet snugly secured. Very little of my head was visible, which was the point. The mustard yellow hoodie bought on clearance at Target was all I had (or as it turns out needed) for warmth during the ride. It clashed horribly with my paint splattered grey yoga pants and dusty old running shoes. I looked a spectacle. I did not look like someone who should be taken seriously, as an athlete or as citizen biker. An androgynous mass of humanity on a bicycle. But I was out there, pushing, pulling, peddling, shifting, coasting, and huffing my way through town on the "course"---and when self-consciousness began to creep up my tires and into my ugly beanie I reminded myself that I was out here, early, on a cold January morning in the second leg of a triathlon while most people weren't. And as ridiculous of a get-up I might be wearing, I was out here--doing something, moving, becoming stronger, and there's nothing ridiculous about that.

Running, despite all odds, is my element. I'm slow and steady and completely at ease during a foot race--probably because I refuse to race at all---as I tell Phil, I don't race, I participate. Even after the swim and the bike, I was relieved to finally be running--even with the "heavy leg" feeling you get after you transition. I think I like it because you only have to rely on yourself to run. No tires to pop, no goggles to fog up, no chains to fall off. Just you. If you succeed, it's because you succeeded. If you poop-out, well that's your fault, too. Today I ran while listening to Adele. And the time flew by. I think it's because Adele is soulful, and runners are soulful and I got caught up in both of our soulfulness. Usually I listen to Black Eyed Peas. But today was a soulful kinda day, and it ended on a high note and a hefty amount of vindication.

I finished.

I resolve...

2012-01-02T21:08:00.001-08:00

to be kinder.
to live a healthy, active lifestyle.
to not resolve to loose weight.
to do more.
to take more risks (not the jumping out of airplane kinda risks).
to write more.
to read more.
to use my phone less.
to play with my kids more.
to wear sparkly shoes if I want to.

The end.

Where I've been....

2011-11-28T22:43:00.001-08:00

I've been out of town 6 of the past 9 weekends.

I've logged approximately 5,463 driving miles. To put that in perspective, it's only 2,898 miles from where I live to NYC, NY!! According to google maps to reach 5,463 miles I'd have to drive from Seattle to LA to Miami to NYC to Boston. And even then I might have to circle around a bit to get up there. This astounds me.

Anyway, back to where I've been....

Well, first Phil and I went to St. George, UT (1,330 miles RT) to visit GrannyT and watch Phil run the St. George marathon. Visiting Granny T was a pleasure, running the marathon--well, you'll have to ask Phil. It was a particularly hot day and I was very glad to be a spectator.

The following weekend we took the family down to Anaheim and San Diego (962 miles RT) to visit Phil's brother and a few animals. It was a delightful trip. San Diego is my mecca.

After that trip I had two weeks at home before I had to make an unexpected trip to Vancouver, WA (no pictures of this trip) for a good family friends funeral. While I wished I was visiting under different circumstances, it was a special time where I was able to spend time with people I love and feel grateful for eternal families. (645 miles- one way, since I flew up and drove back)

I then took another two weeks off before heading down to Santa Barbara (690 miles RT) to run the half-marathon with my SIL. It was a great trip (just girls!) and mercifully short. The race went well, and I enjoyed the course and my running mate who slowed down significantly to keep pace with me. That is such a great distance! After the race we ate, shopped, and watched my sister jump out of a plane.

One more week off before heading for the Thanksgiving grand tour of the Intermountain West.

We drove first to Idaho (823 miles) in rather treacherous conditions, then down to Provo (257 miles), where we parked it in a cabin for a week. We spent lots of up close and personal time with all sorts of family members playing Ticket to Ride, hosting Murder Mystery Parties, and eating lots. While we were there we were also able to drive our kids (literally) down memory lane by visiting BYU and all our favorite Provo spots. I haven't been to that part of Utah in years and it was fun to be back.

Then finally, on Saturday we packed up for home. The 12 hours it took to drive back flew by and I have been digging through our mountains of laundry ever since. While I am grateful for the busy times and for technology and machines that make traveling like I did so easy, I'm grateful to be home. I've vowed to plant myself here for at least a month with no significant trips taken. And, to vacuum my car because, as you can imagine, it needs it!

Grateful: day 4 to present

2011-11-13T21:35:00.001-08:00

I'm grateful for running. I'm not particularly talented at it, but I enjoy it and can some how manage to stick to it enough to finish a half-marathon.

I'm grateful for the women in my life. I spent the weekend with my mom, SIL, aunt and Offspring. Just the girls. It was the first event of it's kind, but certainly not the last.

I'm grateful for Phil, who by default had a "boys weekend" here at home. He handled it with grace and a fair amount of sugar. I'm grateful he's willing and capable to handle things for me while I take a brief exit from reality.

I'm grateful for thoughtful church talks. I normally subscribe to the "church meetings are optional while traveling" school of thought, but we went to a sacrament meeting in Santa Barbara today that was very thoughtful motivating.

I'm grateful for beaches. I love the ocean and am glad we live relatively close to one.

I'm grateful for being home. Because really, there's no place like it.

Thankful- Day 2 & 3

2011-11-08T21:29:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful for healthy bodies. I went in for a physical today for the first time in over a decade. I haven't seen a doctor, other than an OB/GYN, in over 10 years. It was just a tune up. I figure I'm 30 now, best to keep on top of these things. Other than a slight Vitamin D deficiency I was given two thumbs up. Health truly is a blessing, and I try not to take that for granted. In fact, on Saturday I am celebrating health and what bodies can do by running the Santa Barbara Half-Marathon. Should be a great time, so I'm grateful for that too. And, if the forecasted rain could just hold off for a day or two, I'd be even more thankful!

Thankful month- belated (as usual)

2011-11-06T19:30:00.000-08:00

'Tis the season to count my many blessings. Today, I am grateful for Phil's delicious chocolate pudding, rainy days, and a warm home. I'm grateful for my children, that despite the near constant bickering recently, are really great kids. I'm grateful to be close to family. It's our one year house anniversary and I can hardly believe it. It was the fastest year to date and we have come along way. We are settled and painted, we have friends, and lots of new California memories. I'm am grateful to be where I am.

Mileage

2011-10-26T21:31:00.000-07:00

There is something about the month of October that draws me to the road trip. Last year we had the road trip to end all road trips in our move from East to West--after that week long excursion I swore off them for good. But, like most things, time made me forget and I was once again beckoned by the open road. That and the promise of 3 kid-free days. Never mind that 2/3 days were spent en route. It is a luxury to travel when one only needs to worry about ones own potty stops and not those of 3 small-bladdered, continuously thirsty children. This trip had a destination (St.George) and a purpose (marathon). For Phil, not for me---thank goodness. Once upon a time I would have looked longingly at the runners as they trotted by, sad I didn't get in/train/whatever. Not this time. This time I felt smugly comfortable in my camp chair as I cheered on the runners at mile 25 assuring them they looked awesome, when in reality they looked miserable. My grandmama and I are real cheerleaders. But seriously, though, it is inspiring to see so many people doing something so hard...I'm just glad I wasn't one of them. Phil did great. Despite the heat and a back issue he finished strong, popcicle in hand. In addition to cheering (and worrying a bit) about Phil I crammed as much kid-free activities as possible into those 72 hours. Namely, eating out, visiting a quilt shop, seeing good friends from Provo, and Virginia, and enjoying the comforts that grandma world has to offer. Mainly great conversation with a great lady who I get to call GrannyT. One of the things (really the only thing) that I miss about living in Las Vegas was being able to spend time with my grandma on a regular basis. We are much closer now than we were in Arlington, so we do see her more but not as often as I'd like. And, although my kids are cute little whipper snappers, I cherished the time I got to have her all to myself-- well, Phil was there, but when he wasn't running he was lying in the floor in a semi-comatose state, understandably, so he doesn't count. The road trip was topped off by a visit to "The Crazy Greek" on the way home and manageable traffic. Success.

You would think one weekend on the road would be enough, but no. The very next weekend we loaded up everybody (minus Charlie) into our well used and permanently stinky van and headed south to visit a certain mouse and a certain cousin. We spent an evening at a Disney Halloween Rave fueled by limitless candy and flashing neon whirly gigs. It was awesome. Especially, since we (meaning those related to us) came in droves. My mom, my dad, my brother, his kid, my other brother, my sister, Phil's brother, his family, my family. All in all, there were 14 of us, most of which dressed up as dalmatians*. We were easy to spot, (har) and although the large group was slow moving we were able to get a lot in and split up multiple times. Much less stress than two on three like we've done in the past. So, after a late night in DL we woke up bright and early and drove down to San Diego where my SIL got us into the SD Zoo for nothing. We watched a cheetah run, pondered the evolutionary ways of the gazelle and ate our way into diabetes with our plunder from the previous night. A truly excellent adventure. That evening we retired early at the home of Phil's brother the "pirate doctor" as he is known as around these parts. The kids appreciated the down time and the easy access to the life size model of a human torso with removable bits. They are now adept at identifying the kidneys and lungs. Then there was the cousin who craved attention from Numero dos, and who The Third demanded attention from. He was patient and magnanimously shared his toys. It's funny the pecking order kids develop. Offspring is old enough to rise above the fray and spent a good chunk of her time reading or drawing. I love that girl! The next day we skipped church (vacation rules) and went to the private Navy beach instead. It was deserted and very elite feeling. San Diego is heaven and I would move there in a heart beat. Then, since the next day was Monday and no matter how much we tried to convince ourselves otherwise we couldn't ignore that, we went home. We left San Diego at 6:30pm and arrived at our house at 2:20am. Just under 8 hours, kids slept the entire time, only 2 stops, only one 5 hr energy for Phil. It was epic. Until the next morning when we had to get up. It was worth it though, sleep deprivation and all.

So the moral of this picture-less post (because I'm lazy) is that quick road trips are worth it when it's to visit people that you love. And as awesome as it is to finally get to your destination the journey is just as memorable. What, to cliche? Yeah, I think so too.

* Most people thought we were cows.

That's why they call it a Try-athalon

2011-09-27T23:11:00.000-07:00

This story does not have a glorious ending but it does have an ending. For the past couple months I've been training for a sprint distance triathlon. Truthfully, it's not that hard. I'm a pretty decent swimmer, and a slow but experienced runner. The only thing left was the bike and it was only 11 miles. Since the bike course was so short and so flat I trained for it by doing a spin class twice a week. My only road experience was last week when I practiced the course with my friends. It was cake.

The night before I checked and double checked my gear. I had my helmet, my suit, my clif bars, and my tires were full, I was good to go. I loaded my bike into my friends van so we would be all ready once 5:30 rolled around. Super prepared. Sadly, upon arrival at the course my front tire was flat, really flat. My two friends who were with me helped pump it up as we debated the best course of action. My friend had a patch, but we only had a half-hour or so before the race started and I'd never patched a tire before. I weighed my options. I could try and repair the tire beforehand but risk missing the start, or I could pump up my damaged tire and hope that it was a slow leak. I opted for option #2. Right before the swim I pumped up my tire. The swim went well and I finished quickly. As I ran to transition to the bike portion my heart sunk when I felt my squishy tire. I probably should have just stopped there, but I couldn't not try. So I pumped it up one last glorious time and hopped on. I made it about 3 miles before I was riding on rim.

I'm a fortunate girl in that whenever I've found myself in a tough spot, there is usually a kind hearted person near by to help me out. This time my saving grace came in the form of a HAM radio enthusiast/race volunteer. He did his best to look at my tire and offer suggestions. But without the aide of a pump they weren't very realistic. When I finally conceded that I would not be able to finish the bike portion of the race he gracious offered me a lift back to the transition stage. Once the final cyclist had ridden by and he was cleared to leave his post we loaded my bike in the back of his truck and talked about the intricacies and benefits of the HAM radio as he drove me, my flat tire, and my defeat back to where I started. It was a nice diversion and I appreciate his kindness immensely. (And I now have a new goal to get HAM certified). I walked my bike back to the racks and debated what to do. Many of the participants were just starting the run. I could sit and wait for my friends, or get in a small run. Sure, it may be "cheating", and I definitely don't count as a finishing participant but I couldn't just sit and wait. So I ran. It was a good solid run that filled my lungs and my spirit. I fumed about my situation for the first mile, negotiated the second, and came to a sort of peace by the third. As I crossed the finish line (probably a big no-no, but whatever, I paid my $80 bucks!) they handed me a medal which I promptly pushed away and found my friends. They were sad to hear of my troubles, but I tried to glory in their success and learn from my experience.

Phil, who is currently in a space/WWII/Teddy Roosevelt phase, likened my race to the Apollo 13 mission. He called it, "A Successful Failure". Sure I didn't reach the result I wanted and prepared for, but I learned a lot. This is only the beginning of my triathlon career and now I know preparedness needs to be more than just physically being ready. I need to have a back-up plan (tire!) and the know-how to solve problems as they arise. So, although it wasn't the glorious ending to my race that I hoped for it was purposeful, and I'm grateful for it.

It's gonna be a big year

2011-09-09T22:41:00.000-07:00

Turning 8.

Being baptized.

Learning fractions.

The birds and the bees.

Another lost tooth, perhaps?

New bike.

New friends.

becoming a Brownie. (not the dessert)

***now comes the part in the blog where you set your pandora station to dramatic, yet reserved violin solos, preferably something solemn. ***

To call this absurd would be absurd.

I tried to refrain from typing this sentence, but I can't help it: I can't believe I have a second grader. This summer has definitely been one of transition. She's grown like a weed, began using slang like "freaky" and "whatever" and recently listed on her "About Me" page that her favorite song is "Last Friday Night" by Katie Perry*. But she also still loves to snuggle, will play for hours in her room with her toy animals, draws scenes about horses, makes animal sounds at her brothers, and still listens to the Wiggles on the ipod.

Watching her grow up is a delight.

It's going to be a great year!

*in defense of my parenting skills we don't listen to Katie Perry. I think she's a twit. I blame the swim meets. They would always blast that devil music in hopes it would make the kids swim faster.

Behold...

2011-09-09T22:08:00.000-07:00

I give you the proud, if a bit grumpy, particiapant of Mrs.P's pre-K.

This year he will: raise a chick, grow a garden, tend to rabbits, learn his letters, and quit spitting.

This year I will: have M,W,F mornings with only one child.

Not sure who has the better end of the deal, yet.

Beginning of the school year goals: Mom edition

2011-09-01T14:08:00.000-07:00

- be showered and out of workout clothes by pick-up time.

-make cooler lunches.

-volunteer more.

-continue to be a stickler about bedtime.

-shower.

- don't fret about the state of my closets.

-keep the van clean, because nothing says "I give up" like a soiled diaper falling out of the sliding door during pick-up.

-quit over-scheduling.

Do you have any goals for this school year?

Bathroom: Before and After

2011-08-28T20:43:00.000-07:00

We've been fixing things around here. Very slowly, but it's coming around.

Here are some before shots: Lots of wood, lots of wall paper, big pain in the neck...but it was worth it.

After: We removed the wall paper, painted, put in a new light fixture, painted the vanity, replaced the hardware, switched out the lovely wood toilet seat, and framed out the mirror with moulding. It was a relatively cheap fix that has made all the difference. I'd still like to retile the floors and get some sort of window covering...but baby steps.

Yummy Summer Salad

2011-08-09T23:33:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine brought this to a BBQ a couple weeks ago, and I recreated it tonight. It was such a yummy success, I had to share--and record for posterity.

Tomato, feta and couscous salad

1 cup couscous, cooked
1-2 large tomatoes, diced
2-3 green onions, finely diced
1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
1/2 feta cheese

Mix together and serve. Seriously, it sounds weird, but it's delicious. It doesn't even need a dressing.

Enjoy.

I would have taken a picture, but as you might have gathered...I haven't been all that great at taking pictures lately.

late summer doldrums

2011-07-31T23:35:00.000-07:00

Gym, Swim, Nap.

This is our routine. My energy and pocket book are wearing thin as the summer loses its novelty and the kids begin to use the "b" word. Bored. The grand adventures and rigorous schedule of June has suddenly lost its appeal and I begin to find ways to entertain and engage my kids with minimal effort on my part. My latest invention involves the hose.

Every day on the way to the gym we drive by Offspring's school and she will sigh and heavy sigh, and look longingly at the weed filled school yard and say something about how she wishes she was in school. "You and me both", I want to tell her, but I usually refrain.

Offspring did swim team this year, and we've been tied to the daily practices and weekend meets for several months now and it's wearing us down. Soon that will end and we'll be able to break the gym, swim, nap cycle. On the plus side, she's a great (and fast!) swimmer now.

I try not to wish away the summer, but the bickering between Offspring and Numero dos has become like a constant hum in the background of our home. Whines, shouts and blames are common place these days. I try to ignore the small stuff, and force them to work out their squabbles on their own--but occasionally, OK frequently, I've been known to find both parties at fault and send them to their rooms. This usually only delays the problem, not solve it.

I remember once when I was interviewing for a teaching position, one of the interviewers asked me what my approach to discipline was. I responded something along the lines of keeping kids and a class actively engaged usually takes care of most discipline problems. A simplistic answer to be sure, but it got me the job and it's true. If my kids are busy they don't fight--but it's hard to be the entertainment 24/7.

In 32 minutes it'll be August. The final summer push. Swim will end, and I'm hoping to get my second wind. This is mile 23 of the marathon. I have so much to be grateful for and so much to look forward to. I just need a stiff glass of Diet Coke and some new flip flops to see me through to the end.

What do you do to ward off the summer doldrums?

Works for me Wednesday

2011-07-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure there is a group of blogs that share what works for them every Wednesday. I am not one of them, I just couldn't come up with a better title so I stole theirs. I'm unaffiliated. Just thought I should disclose. Hope it's not trademarked.

Egg-carton lunches. I'm pretty sure I picked it up from some blog somewhere at some point in time, but it's genius. I save my egg cartons then every couple of weeks we turn them in to lunch trays. I put a little bit of whatever we have in each space and the kids think it is such a treat. Probably because one of those spaces has chocolate chips in them. It's a fun way to mix up lunch time, especially in the summer. Just make sure it's a clean carton...lest we give the kiddos salmonella. No esta bien.

Sugar Cereal Sundays. Phil has a calling in our church that requires him to be in meetings from at 6:30 am on Sundays. Stinks for him but stinks even more for me, since I'm the one who has to bathe, dress and make presentable THREE darling but perpetually messy children, and myself who rarely blow dries my hair by 9:00* am. In effort to motivate my offspring to get ready I've instituted "sugar cereal Sunday". Earlier in the week I/we/they pick out a box of florescent colored, partially hydrogenated corn substance dipped in sugar and ocassionally covered in chocolate, "cereal". It then sits on our shelf--untouched until Sunday morning--when I let them have it. But in order to have it they must be dressed with hair combed AND shoes on. Then they wear bibs and eat themselves silly while I shower. Works great. Until the sugar crash during Sacrament Meeting---but that's a different blog.

*9:00 is the start time but we're usually there at 9:08.

---well that's all I've got. Anyone else have any tricks-of-the-trade that work for them? I've yet to establish a consistent chore chart. Any suggestions?

what's in your queue?

2011-07-03T23:03:00.000-07:00

When we moved to California we did away with "yesterday's technology", i.e. cable, landline, etc. It's because we're so techno-forward.. wiga-wiga-NOT...it's because we're cheap/thrifty/frugal/what ev's. Anyway, we don't have cable but we do have Netflix that streams to our TV (a girl has her limits, you know) and we've been taking full advantage of that $10.99 a month. Most of the time my kids hog it all, and I've been able to relive my childhood through "The Neverending Story" and "The Rats of NIMH" but on Monday's after 8:00 it's mine, all mine. I sit down with my mountain of laundry and peruse the hundreds, nay thousands of titles, only to realize I've already seen it or it's crap. And I can't properly fold laundry unless I have TV help take the edge off. So then that leaves us with me not being able to watch a movie, and baskets full of clean and quickly wrinkling laundry. A true first-world conundrum.

So, I've been on a mission to find the hidden Netflix stream-instantly gems. And felt it my civic duty to pass on my findings to you, and I hope that in return if you have any Netflix wisdom you'd pass it along my way.

Here are my recent favorites.

Movies with accents:

Sherlock Holms (2010) The BBC has a new series up and they're great. It's Sherlock Holmes but with an iPhone. They can get a bit Law and Order-ish at times, but I like Law and Order....so it's OK. Can't wait for Season 2.

The Young Victoria- stars that girl from "The Devil Wears Prada". Loved it. Very romantic.

Documentaries:

Babies- Who doesn't love babies? My kids and I both loved it.

Food Inc- It may turn you vegetarian, but I found it interesting.

When we left the earth (series)- Discovery Channel about the space program. Numero dos and I like to watch it together.

Funny:

Manhattan Murder Mystery- I can't help it, I like Woody Allen movies

Money Pit- I'm a sucker for all things Tom Hanks, and I can relate, kinda

The IT Crowd (series)- another BBC gem. Love it.

Brian Regan, The Epitome of Hyperbole- watch it, but you might just wet yourself.

Lovey dovey movies-

Benny and June- Johnny Depp before he went too whacky-do.

Surprises:

Salt- I'm usually fairly skeptical of spy movies...but this one was entertaining.

I have more...but I'm tired. And really, what I'm most interested in is suggestions. Anyone stumble across any great Netflix finds to help aide my laundry folding?

fire

2011-06-26T16:19:00.000-07:00

I'm not quite sure how or where I came to have it, but I am somehow owner of a used poetry book called "Stories In Verse" by Max T. Hohn. Inside the front cover it tells me it once belonged to the Fairfield-Suisun school district. It is also marked with the stamps "unusable" and "obsolete", probably two of the biggest insults one could sling on a book.

I'm no stranger to old books. It's a hobby of mine to sift through the mounds of for-sale library books to find the ones that look worn and wearied. My cause is not the least bit noble. I just like the look of old books and like to stack them on my shelves. Most are tired looking old things with nothing too special about them. I generally try to select books with titles or authors I recognize or that make me laugh. And every once in a while I come across a gem, like a first edition of The Girl of the Limberlost, and most recently my poetry book. Unlike The Girl of the Limberlost, I'm pretty sure my old red poetry book has no monetary value, but it has become something of a delight to me.

I probably first picked it up to read some evening when I couldn't find my iPhone, which is (unfortunately) my default book these days. I sifted through the pages of poems until I found one I recognized, "The Lady of Shalot". As I read it, I channeled my inner Anne Shirley, and became absorbed in the rhythm and drama of the story. And then I kept reading-- Poe, Browning, Service, Holmes! I'd read many of these before but usually always as a part of an English course, never on my own, and never for pleasure. How could I have missed out on this for so long? It's like word candy! I know nothing of mechanics of it all, although my book (intended as a textbook) does it's best to explain it so. Occasionally, after the end of particularly complex poem the author offers challenges and assignments "For the Ambitious Student". I'm tempted to write an essay.

Today as I was reading my red book I read a poem entitled, "Forest Fire". Pretty straight forward topic, but the imagery is terrific, and particularly timely for me. On Friday we had our own forest fire scare. I knew that living next to open space meant we were susceptible to the occasional fire--I just didn't think it would be this soon. Thankfully, it didn't come too close to us, and the fire departments were able to put it out quickly thanks to helicopters, planes, and bulldozers. The kids thought it was terrific, I thought it was terrifying.

So, to the crotchety old librarian who stamped my book "obsolete" and "unusable" I say Pppppthhhlllppppp! (which is an onomatopoeia)

Also, for those who are counting-- in our 8 months as California residents we have "experienced" floods, rattlesnakes, turkeys, and now fires. What's next?!

Forest Fire

Edna Davis Roming

Whispers of little winds low in the leaves,

Rustle of warm winds through tall green trees,

A full resinous fragrance, rich, warm, sweet,

A sharp acrid odor, a hint of heat,

Snap, hiss, crackle, a faint blue smoke,

A whirl of black swept by a tawny flame--

Deep in the forest the wild wind broke;

Fast in the wild wake the fire wind came,

A soughing of branches swept sudden and strong

Like the rush and crash when the storm winds meet:

Crimson streams of fire flowed quickly along

The tall grey grasses and the spruce needles deep;

Red tongues of fire licked the tall pine trees,

Grey twigs fell as though shrivelled by disease;

Broad orange streamers floated everywhere

And bulging puffs of copper smoke filled the molten air.

A pitiable squeaking came from little furry creatures,

Chipmunks and marmots as they scurried helter-skelter;

Mountain sheep and mountain goats leaping to some shelter,

Warned by their instincts--grim, sure teachers--

And the suffocating stenches from the red relentless thing:

The eagles screamed in anger from the smoke-beclouded skies;

A sudden rush of slender deer, dumb fright in liquid eyes...

Now burning brands seem missiles sent,

Projectiles hurled through space,

Now and then a chuckle, like mirth malevolent,

A sweeping beauty sinister, a dread and treacherous grace:

And conflagration with the sound of thunder

Has pulled a thousand tall trees under.

But men have come in purpose bent

To halt the fire's fierce race.

They fell great trees and dig deep lanes,

They smother out small flames;

With tools and chemicals and wit

At last they curb, they conquer it.

But fire that raged for half a day

Has burned a hundred years away.

Life's a beach

2011-06-21T23:35:00.000-07:00

After yesterday's lazy-fest and culminating viewing of "The Swiss Family Robinson" I felt the need to do (and really do) something. A last minute beach invite from a friend was just the ticket, so this morning we packed up our things that could get sandy and headed out the door to the beach. Two wrong turns, and 70 minutes later we were there. It was a gloriously perfect first day of summer and the people of San Francisco were there en mass to celebrate this fact. The beach was full, as was the parking lot, but karma was kind today and we snagged a premier spot only a few yards from where we wanted to make camp. I delight in details such as these. Clean floors and good parking spots are my bread and butter these days.

Offspring immediately set to frolicking in the waves, no doubt imagining she was some animal or another. (usually a horse, or an otter) Numero dos was uncharacteristically cautious and under constant worry that our beach shovel would be washed away by the slowly rising tide. The Third thoroughly despised the sandy mess and refused to leave the blanket. Even still we basked in the sun (with sunscreen), got sufficiently sandy, and ate tacos from the most beautifully located Taco Bell I've ever seen. (Really, it was on the beach.)

We stayed until the late afternoon, surrendering to the traffic that awaited our drive home. And although it took us one and a half movies to finally make it back to our little neck of the woods, the beach was worth it. The sun was worth it. We did something today.

A fine way to ring in the first day of summer.

Can't seem to get anything done today

2011-06-20T15:39:00.000-07:00

It's 94 degrees today and we're moving slow. I've started (or at least thought about starting) several different chores/outings/activities but I can't seem to maintain enough momentum to get us out the door. The day is ticking away and I still have a work-out to complete, dry cleaning to drop off, and dinner to make. Offspring is out with a friend so it's just the boys and I and they seem to be just as content to do nothing as I am. Numero dos is busy building the "best fort ever" out of umbrella's and The Third is reading "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom" to himself, which is basically just rhythmic babbling, but I'll count it. When he's not reading he can be found standing (but not moving) on Numero Dos's Radio Flyer scooter. I let him bring it inside on account of the weather.

I am now brainstorming dinner ideas that don't involve any type of cooking. So far I've come up with watermelon, carrots and hummus, blueberries, and ice-cream. That's healthy, right?

Ok, I really need to drop off dry-cleaning. That is the one thing that has to get done. Phil is being photographed this week for his law firms website. Fancy.

ta ta for now.

P.S. If anyone has any lazy day, no cooking recipe/menu ideas I'd love to hear them. Perhaps we'll just eat ice chips.

apparently, I'm not good at finishing things...

2011-06-16T22:55:00.000-07:00

So, it's not that I don't blog...it's that I don't finish blogging. I have several unfinished posts, saved as drafts, sitting in wait in my queue. Both becoming increasingly irrelevant with time. So, instead of just ignoring them, like I usually do, I figured I'd just post what I have. Even if that means my thoughts drop off mid sentence. You can use your imagination or magical powers of deductive reasoning to write your own conclusion to my posts. deal?

"Snapshot"

originally composed June 9, 2011

7:17 pm

Today was the last day of school. I picked up a very down trodden Offspring from school this afternoon. When I asked her how her day went she gave me a thumbs up and thumbs down. She said she'd miss seeing her teacher and friends. When I asked her how it felt to say goodbye she said her eyes got wet but she didn't cry. On the way home I tried to "sell" summer. I told her how great it would feel to sleep in. How fun it would be to go on different adventures and how we could do lots and lots of swimming. She seemed thoroughly unimpressed and sulked the remainder of the afternoon. Then she did a report on the difference between African and Asian elephants, complete with illustrations. (note: it's more than just ear size and tusks)

Numero dos woke me up at 2:23 am by telling me he didn't feel well, and then by sprinting to the nearest toilet. He showed unusual grace and aim by keeping his mess contained in the porceline pot (on 3 separate occasions) for which I gave unceasing praise. "Numero dos is a good thrower-uper" was the morning news around our house. It raised his standing significantly in the pecking order of neighborhood politics.

Numero dos for the most part is a good little patient. He does tend to lean a bit on the dramatic side and often requests to be carried (with blanket and pillow) into the car/bedroom/other couch. He spent most of the day watching movies, napping, and eating. Not exactly the the "summer kick-off" I imagined but it'll do.

The other day I took a nap and...

"Summer Begins"

originally composed June 11, 2011

I have a sunburn. My skin is as instant replay of the days events. The hours spent by the pool, cheering on my little swimmer. Playing lifeguard to my Numero dos who isn't water safe, yet. And the culminating family walk/ride/whine to the dog park. All these events radiate from my skin in a soft pink heat. And I'm exhausted.

Summer finally arrived in California (in date not temperature). Offspring is officially an incoming second grader and the thought blows my mind and makes me a bit queasy. Numero dos moves up to Pre-K next year, and The Third is starting to talk--or trying to, at least. We're aging.

With age comes busyness. Our weekends have been consistently crammed with one sporting event or the other. Phil and I often like to reminisce about the good 'ol days when we used to take naps in the afternoon. No mas. There are parties to attend, home projects to tackle, farmers markets to raid, BBQ's to host, and always, always, always one last trip to the grocery store. It's a good busy.

I am now focusing my energy on how I'm going to handle this summer. I love having all my little chicks at home and the break in routine that summer offers, but they are each in a tornado-like stage of development that proves Newton's First law. So, I figure since my kids are constantly moving, we might as well be moving towards something productive or fun. I spent a good chunk of Friday trying to figure out how to handle all this movement so I made lots of lists to keep us busy. Lists of chores to do, lists of friends to call, lists of things to do when someone says "I'm bored", lists of places to visit and adventures to have. Good lists, I think. Whenever Numero dos has an idea of something he'd like to do or see he instructs me to "put it on the list", and so I do. Our list is growing.

With all my list making, busy planning, broohaha I am looking forward to the stolen moments of quiet that occasionally creep up during the summer. When it gets really hot and everyone moves just a bit slower. When, despite my calendaring, we forget what day it is. These are the memories I want for my kids. This is their childhood. It's their summer.

So long as I don't forget the sunscreen.

You can pick your friends...

2011-06-03T11:53:00.000-07:00

We picked our own fruit again. This is hardly an exciting or new activity for us. I'm a bit of an addict when it comes to picking the fruit 'o the tree.

But it makes for good photos of my youngin's. Enjoy.

And this is the Thirds first time where he could actually participate.

Thanks to Celia for giving us the scoop on all the best spots.

Before and After: My grandmother's dresser

2011-05-25T14:00:00.000-07:00

When my grandmother passed away I inherited (i.e. swiped) a lot of her stuff.

I'd much rather have her around then her stuff, but since she can't be here it's nice to be surrounded by things that remind me of her. And that serve a very useful purpose for our family.

One of the pieces I inherited with this fantastic antique art-deco style dresser. It was big and beautiful as it was but I've been reading to many design blogs lately and paint everything. So, after having it sit in our garage for a couple months I sanded it down (as seen below), primed and painted it and stuck it in Offspring's room. I like how it turned out, and it's so nice to corral her clothes in this instead of on closet shelves.

"Before" (after I sanded it)

"After"

I'm a DIY-er

2011-05-23T23:12:00.000-07:00

[This'll be short because I have to go to bed.]

I've become a bad blogger in part because I have a hidden affinity (but not talent) for DIY projects.

I'm not very good, because I'm not very meticulous, or patient, or creative but every once in a while something turns out and I pat myself on the back every time I walk past. My mirror turned chalk-board is one of those things. It has both form and function.

"Before" my $30 craigslist find.

I was originally going to leave it as a mirror and put in in our entry way but it was too big and not the right shape I wanted, so I decided to move it to the kitchen and give it new purpose as a chalkboard.

I like the look and the kids like to write notes or scribble-scrabble to each other.

pat pat pat.

And when I'm not spray-painting things, I can be found bludgeoning baby rattle snakes to death with a shovel.

I'm a woman of many talents.

Obviously.

Elvis the Cat: April 15, 2007- April 22, 2011

2011-05-08T22:26:00.001-07:00

The cat whose name was ELVIS

after all he was born in Las Vegas.

Born into the life of a vagabond

until adopted by us we brought him along.

Two times across the country he did move

in his carrier he did brood.

Flying in coach he did ride

Waiting to be freed but wanting to hide.

A house cat always was he.

Alway upon his perch trying to see.

watching, longing for the outside world,

of which he was only a spectator.

To California he did go.

A taste of freedom he did know

when he crossed the threshold

and became more bold.

Catching mice and lizards

stalking birds and buzzards

His happiness knew no bounds

these were his grounds.

The weather warmed and changed

along with it left the cold and rain

And then the snakes came out

Their rattles shaking, their necks held tout.

To curious and bold he became

Tempting fate he left his mat

Although it's quite cliche, it's true all the same;

curiosity killed my cat.

30

2011-05-07T01:21:00.000-07:00

This is a blog post without pictures. Not my favorite kind of posts since I generally rely on pictures to distract from my missspellings. (sic on purpose yo) But today needs to be recorded. NEEDS to.

My 30th birthday came and, as of an hour and four minutes ago, went. It was a good day by all accounts. I had been dreading--nay hoping to postpone this day for the last 8 months or so. In my mind I have not the maturity level or skill that is required of a person in their 30's. But tick-tock here we are. And it's not that bad--based on my days worth of experience.

The morning started with breakfast in bed that consisted of an apple and an orange (unpeeled). Two of my favorite fruits. In addition to this I recieved a hand crafted card from our resident artist done entirely in my favorite color, green. My children are thoughtful little ankle-biters. This being the bankrupt state of California, Offspring had a furlough day and didn't have to go to school. So instead we went to the gym and then to the Lawrence Hall of Science in Berkeley. There was an uncharacteristic amount of cooperation from my children today on account of my special day. Offspring made sure to remind Numero dos to be obedient anytime he started to step out of line. Aside from trying to shop lift bubble-gum flavored Trident gum, jaywalking, and spilling his Capri-sun he mostly obliged. It's OK, at least he tried. After a fun and educational day at the museum where more environmental indoctrination (which I agree with, but Phil doesn't--fundamentally) was learned we headed to my parent's house where I was due to drop off the kids. They all fell asleep. We were greeted by a saintly Nana, who also greeted me with presents (that also happened to be green). I gave kisses good bye and merrily went on my child-less way where I was to meet my husband for a late dinner and then go home to an empty house (except for Charlie the dog who is always there...but not Elvis, since he's dead...more on that later). We had a delightful evening dining at our tiny towns only somewhat fancy restaurant. It was delicious, even accounting for its obvious monopoly. Then I came home and watched "The King's Speech" (A++) with Phil and didn't whisper while getting ready for bed because the kids aren't here and I didn't have to.

See? A good day. A great day in fact. A fine way to start off another day, another year, and another decade for that matter.

Hello 30!

I killed the Easter Bunny

2011-04-21T19:25:00.000-07:00

Offspring in her make-shift easter bunny costume from last year. She put this together and BEGGED me to let her go around to the neighbors and hand out easter eggs. I didn't let her, lest our neighbors think we are members of a certain clan.

Last week Offspring asked me if the Easter Bunny was real. I paused for a moment assessing my conundrum and said, no. I knew that honesty might open a pandora's box of shattered dreams, but I just couldn't lie to my kid--especially about something so stupid.

I'd always tried to downplay any bunny influence in Easter but somehow, thanks to frickin' Dora, it snuck in there and expectations of hidden eggs and goodies trumped my good intentions of focusing on the real purpose for the holiday.

After my honest answer, her eyes widened a little bit and she walked away, not saying a word. I figured I'd leave it at that. No sense in dissecting every holiday lie all at once. Disappointment is best swallowed gradually. However, as I watched my little seven-year-old walk away I felt immediate guilt. Guilt that I was honest, guilt that I wished I wasn't, and sadness with how fast she is growing up and how life and difficult question keep popping up and needing to be answered.

Fast forward to yesterday, when the topic of the Easter Bunny came up again. Again, she asked if he was real. I took the cowards way out and turned the question back at her, "well, what do you think?" Her reply, "I think he's real. Because he comes at night. And if the Easter bunny isn't real, then leprechauns, Santa Clause and the tooth fairy aren't real. So he must be real."

I can live with denial.

30 Life: Post 6- Venice Italy

2011-04-06T16:14:00.000-07:00

One year while Phil was in law school we did something fairly impulsive and slightly irresponsible and went to Italy for Spring break. We had planned to visit family out west during that time, but when we found out it was the same price to fly to Italy as it was to fly to California or Idaho, (no offense family) we chose Italy.

It was a a whirlwind trip. We traipsed about the country with our belongings on our back and our toddler in her stroller. It was an awesome trip. I'm so glad we went!

Needless to say, a few of my 30 life posts will be from this trip. There were many moments that knocked my socks off. The first of which was being Venice.

We flew in from NYC to Milan on the red eye. Jet-lagged, smelly, and with a two year old. We spent just under 24 hours there. Just enough time to grab a nap at the fanciest Holiday Inn I've ever been to, eat the best pizza I've ever tasted, and see DaVinci's "The Last Supper". Also, compared to the well groomed Milanese we looked positively homeless.

After our whirlwind tour of Milan we boarded the slow train to Venice. On the train we met an American camera man who was there for the Olympics a few weeks earlier and was doing a bit of touring before heading home. We bonded over New York and then wished each other well in the train station in Venice.

Venice is unlike anything I'd ever seen. It's exactly how I imagined it, and seems unreal. I know it's lame, but the only thing I could liken it to was Disneyland.

Upon arrival we took a water taxi to find our hotel. This was our big splurge of the trip. We were traveling in March, well before tourist season so hotel rates were very reasonable, but we spent the most on our room here. I really wanted a room with a view of the grand canal, and it was worth every euro. And with the exception of our hotel in Milan we stayed at local bed and breakfasts. This particular could only be reached through a dark ally and up several flights of stairs. It was precariously perched, made of stone, a little drafty, but absolutely gorgeous. And we got chocolate croissants every morning.

We were only in Venice two days so we crammed in as much as possible. We went to St. Marks Basilica, St. Marks Square, took a gondola ride (overpriced, but awesome!), visited tons of little shops, visited glass blowing factories on the island of Murano, ate gellato, walked down an empty Venice street as it snowed, and ate lots of panini's. Venice lives up to its romantic reputation.

Our departure

Basilica in Milan.

Water Taxi in Venice.

Trying very hard to find our hotel.

I'm pretty sure these guys are just here to amuse the tourists.

Our room with a view.

Tried very hard to not let Offspring fall into a canal. I was successful.

We splurged with a gondola ride. So worth it.

She was the greatest little traveler, ever.

St. Marks Basilica

Christmas card picture for the year.

Like any self-respecting two year old Offspring was more interested in feeding the pigeons than anything else. Feeding pigeons was a big theme of our trip.

Pondering why her parents drug her here when there's no way she'll ever remember it.

Watching the glass blowers. This sparked my secret desire to be a glass artist, as long as I don't loose and eye.

Don't know what this is, but it's gorgeous, no?

Our second day in Venice was freezing. It even snowed a bit. The bad weather made for very little crowds and a beautiful way to see the city.

Seriously. Best traveling baby ever.

Didn't buy this.

The end.

The Trouble with Turkeys

2011-04-04T15:36:00.000-07:00

I've dealt with mice, I've dealt with roaches, I dealt with ants, but I've never dealt with turkeys. We have a rafter, which according to the google is what you call a bunch a turkeys, that live in our backyard. They wander up and down the hills eating all the crawling things wild spaces have to offer. They gobble in the morning and fluff up their feathers when the lady turkeys come strutting by. They are pretty much the most awesome pests we've had. When they wander in the back yard the kids will yell, "TURKEY!" and we'll go to the window and gobble at them. The most awesome part is, they gobble back. Usually in unison. If we gobble to much or Charlie starts barking they'll move on. Otherwise they just kinda hang out. Their gobbling adds to the cacophony of other nature sounds that surround us. It's pretty much hilarious.

And, if we get the proper permits and firearms we could shoot them, label them "free-range", and sell them at the farmers market. But I won't. Because that's gross.

We're along way from our days in NYC.

Unwelcome spring

2011-03-31T23:15:00.000-07:00

Our first "welcome to home ownership" was a strange smelling furnace. The second occurred last week when during a very wet week here in CA we discovered that our backyard (which is situated on a hill) has a seasonal spring on it. Normally, it's no problem, but I think with the over saturated land coupled with a never-ending rainstorm and we had ourselves a mini-crisis.

At 11:30 am last Thursday, I called Phil in a desperate plea for help, informing him that I was literally watching our backyard wash away. The rain was coming down hard, and our spring and sprung a leak sending a steady current of freezing water down our hill and onto our lawn where it began to accumulate and rise at a fairly alarming rate. Phil was stuck in San Francisco with a bad back, so I called my Dad and brother Derek. They came to my rescue within the hour, bringing sand bags, pipes and snake like contraptions made of straw. Not too long after that and they were able to dig a canal (it's in our Panamanian blood) to divert the water that was bubbling up from the ground to a temporary drain pipe and out to the street where it then became not-my-problem.

It was an exciting and freezing afternoon. I was so glad to have them near by and willing to risk a few toes to frost bite to help me out. It's nice having family around.

It should be noted that my kids thought this was the greatest day ever. The trounced around in their rainboots and umbrella's (or Mcbrellas, as numero dos calls them) and bossed people around. And then we made hot chocolate and oatmeal raisin cookies. Alls well that ends well.

30 Life- Post 5: Death Valley, CA

2011-03-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

While we were living in Las Vegas, Phil planned a camping trip to Death Valley in February. I was skeptical of the merit of the trip. Death Valley is a desert, Vegas is a desert, can they really be too much different to warrent the 2 hour drive? Answer: yes. Death Valley gorgeous, and grand, and mysterious. It's colors are muted but dramatic. It's terrain is rough but beautiful. And it reminds you that this world is big and and parts are still very much wild.

Death Valley is a jackpot for photography. We pulled over to side of the road (a very empty road) so I could take a picture of an abandoned building with an unexplained abundance of unclaimed boots laying about. I kept expecting a ghost or an outlaw to pop out at any moment.

The camping spot where we stayed had a few trees next to it. Lucky us.

The dunes are incredible and difficult to walk on.

If you visit in late January/February you'll be rewarded with wild flowers for miles. I put Sting's "Fields of Gold" on repeat for this trip.

Ah, back in the day when we had good gas mileage. I miss that car.

Indecent exposure. hehe.

Taking pictures til the end.

Who, who, who, Houston.

2011-03-28T23:00:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time I wasn't married, and didn't have kids, and didn't pick up poop everyday.

This was also the time when cell-phones were new and used for calling, email was still only checked occasionally, and I was a single co-ed at BYU.

It was during these fun and fancy-free years I lived with two lovely ladies whose names both started with C. We would hold disco-techs that pushed the limit on the honor code (only as far as curfew went), hosted appliance parties, made our own pinatas, and practiced questionable parking procedures. It was awesome. It was also a decade ago. Oy vey.

To celebrate our cross-over into our 30's we planned a week long cruise in the Bahamas. But then someone (cough*Cathy*cough) went and got herself knocked-up and couldn't leave a breastfeeding baby for a week, naturally.

So, we did the next best thing. Houston, TX.

They both live there, and I live here, so I went there. Got it?

While a cruise would have been nice, I was just as happy to go to Houston. I could have been at a motel in Elko and probably been just as content. Anywhere where I don't have to clean up after anyone but myself is luxury to me.

My grand adventure started with a pretty big case of cold feet. Relinquishing control for a weekend can be tough, as can getting on a small plane with neon stripes. (see below) Despite my nerves I checked myself in, and settled into People magazine, which takes approximately 22 minutes to read and left me gazing out the window for the rest of the flight.

I got lots of texts from Offspring while I was away. She was with my Mom on her own girls weekend away, and would send me photos of elephant seals and bubble gum alleys. I sent her a picture of my face.

Friend Carol picked me up from the aeropuerto and I was able to meet her two kids for the first time. They are adorable half-Asian wonders who never whine and behave at the grocery store. I was in awe.

Our first night away we rented a hotel in downtown Houston. C & C both were able to ditch their kids so we could eat in peace, shop in peace (we got matching headbands), and rest in peace (for the night).

C was my bed buddy for the night, and I only unconsciously snuggled up to her once.

That morning we had a leisurely breakfast at a New York Style Deli. I had a veggie pancake, which might sound healthy, but I'm pretty sure it wasn't. But it was delicious. Served with apricot preserves and sour cream.

That day we went back to other C's house for some Texas style BBQ. C's husband Jimmy (who in his own words "wears a lot of hats", figuratively, not literally) grilled up some awesome chicken and asparagus and gave me a very thorough tutorial on the proper way to BBQ. Low and slow.

The three of us, we haven't aged a bit.

Other C or "queen of the harpies" as I like to call her and her mini-me who was the reason we couldn't go on a cruise.

Jimmy and his mini-me.

And finally, the Rothko chapel. Which is where I ended my trip in a meditative state. Not really, it was just the only place of interest in Houston on the way to the airport. Well, that and the Greek food we ate.

It was a fantastic weekend. It was fun, and rejuvenating and very much needed. It's nice to connect with dear friends and with my former self every once in a while. But it was sure nice to come back to my 3 little babes, and Phil.

Until next time, ladies!

This post is dedicated to Cathy. Who facebooked me asking why I never blog anymore.

30 Life- Post 4: Central Park

2011-03-16T11:26:00.000-07:00

It's cliche, yes, but really...there's no place like it. Especially in the fall, and especially when you dress your toddler (Offspring!) up like an insect.

If you ever visit central park make sure you....

listen to some live music,

enjoy a warm beverage,

and frolic through a field or two.

I remember when we first moved to NYC I was terrified of going into the park by myself. Law and Order made sure of that. I was certain solo trips to the park would most assuredly lead to my untimely and grisly demise. Not so. It has it's own police force and is generally a safe place to be. Assuming you don't wander around the less populated trails at night by yourself. Just be smart. Anyway, I spent many a Saturday morning running around the park (once or twice or three times, ugh). It was such an entertaining place to run. I loved the people watching. I loved the tourists, lost, and totally in awe (and rightfully so). I loved the New York hipsters taking pictures of themselves doing hipster things. I loved the shameless locals sunbathing (nearly nude) on big rocks--although, I tried to avoid looking at that one it still made me chuckle. And, I loved that at any given time I could stop and get a pretzel & diet coke....should the need arise.

When I wasn't running around the park, Offspring and I would go to play at the dozens of playgrounds or explore something new. In our 3 years there I'm pretty sure I only really saw about 1/4 of what the park had to offer. There is always some sort of treasure, whether a garden a playground or a castle, tucked away somewhere.

Do you have a favorite memory of Central Park?

husband

2011-03-16T11:07:00.000-07:00

couldn't find any recent pictures of the two of us, so here is one from back when we were young and fancy free and in need of a tan and "not" dating. Ah, BYU--you're weird.

Phil's back! He's been gone for 10 whole days, and we've missed him. He was back in DC arguing to a bunch of judges. I think we're both glad that's over. I'm really proud of him!

Welcome back Phil!

Hiking

2011-03-14T16:28:00.000-07:00

Last week I took the kids (+1 friend) on a hike. Wednesdays are early-out days so we had a whole lovely March afternoon to ourselves. I'm still amazed how beautiful a state California is. I grew up here, but it's been quite some time since I was a resident and it's like living in a whole new place. Our new house backs up to a state park so we literally have hiking trails right outside our door. I try to take advantage of them as often as possible, which isn't as often as I like. It takes a great amount of effort and fortitude and rock-bottom expectations to take young children hiking. I'm usually glad if we make it 15 minutes. This day we made it 50 minutes, but not without a fair share of whining, "knee hurts", and mud. It was worth it, though. And for once, I remembered to take my camera with me!

one of Offspring's favorite things to do is to "run through a meadow".

I love how green everything is this time of year! It will NOT be this way in August but we're enjoying it for now.

Catching small pill bugs. Not for the faint of heart.

And, of course there's the mud. Everyone took a turn falling in/getting stuck. Except for The Third who was on my back.

Showing off their mud.

Wildflowers, which I actually think are mustard plants. They seem hearty.

The end.

back

2011-03-11T13:53:00.000-08:00

My computer is back and out of it's coma and I'm itching to blog again. I've been far too ~~neglectful~~ busy to write much but I'm ready to get back into it. And having a functioning computer helps out tons.

Some future blogs include, but are not limited to:

-my bathroom. before and after. (this is my first before and after and I'm so excited!)
-ill-advised hiking.
-I'm doing a triathlon, kinda
-I'm proud of my husband but I can't tell you why because you don't have a security clearance, nor do I for that matter.
-30 things to do before 30 list update. I've crossed out a few.
-My hot and happening weekend in Houston.
-all I need to know I learned by scraping wall-paper.
-30 life posts. I think I still have quite a few to go. It might get kinda boring towards the end.

Can't wait to get back into it but for now I need to go chase down my dumb dog.

Peace out,

Erin

2011-03-04T12:23:00.000-08:00

My computer is in a coma. It goes to sleep an won't wake up. It is currently in the care of "genius'" who didn't believe me when I explained the problem. Thank goodness for applecare.

And this concludes my reason for not blogging.

Stay tuned.

30 Life: Post 3- Hong Kong

2011-02-23T09:26:00.000-08:00

Do you want to know the key to cheap international travel?

Pick a country that has recently had an epidemic and or natural disaster, wait a few months for it to calm down, and then book your flights for rock bottom prices!

That's exactly what we did in the summer of 2003.

Phil and I had been married for approximately one year and were getting the travel itch. The SARS epidemic in China (remember that?) was just winding down as was the airfare. We checked travelocity at just the right time and were able to score round trip tickets to Hong Kong for $350.00 a piece. Add to that the cheap hotel and food once we were there and it was too good of a deal to pass up!

The only catch (other then possibly contacting SARS) was that we'd have to travel and July, which as it turns out, is a pretty miserable time to visit Hong Kong. But we were young, and invincible, and fertile (I was 3 months pregnant with Offspring) so we went anyway, and it was awesome.

This was my first time to Asia. Phil spent 2 years living in Hong Kong as a missionary for our church so he was very familiar with the city and language. He served as an excellent guide and we had a packed itinerary seeing the sights and people he knew. We ate dim sum with the locals, took a fishing boat across the harbor, walked up and down hills in ridiculous heat to save a few buck on a taxi, and had a random chance encounter with one of Phil's friends from his time as a missionary. We took the star ferry across the harbor, ate at McDonalds, laid on the beach, bought pearls at an open market and took the long way home on more than one occasion.

I love to travel and I love Phil, so any chance I have to combine the both is a glorious opportunity. This is just the first of our many adventures we've had (and continue to have) together.

P.S. It's super hot when he speaks cantonese.

We ate at a floating restaurant somewhere in the Harbor. I ate duck and "100 year old" eggs, and fish balls. If I hadn't been 3 months pregnant at the time it would have been quite delicious.

The Hong Kong temple. In addition to being beautiful and peaceful we also met a very friendly ex-pat who invited us to her apartment on the other side of the island. We visited her the next day and were treated to an air-conditioned room and fantastic views of the ocean.

A shmorgaspord of deals!

The famous Big Buddah. It was very impressive. We ate vegetarian that day.

I loved our visit to Hong Kong. It's a beautiful, rich, vibrant city. Can't wait to return.

Be Mine, Be Mine Sweet Valentine

2011-02-14T11:27:00.000-08:00

This morning I made love muffins for my love muffins.

You can make muffins, too!

Happy Valentines Day!

Whole Wheat Apple Muffins

Adapted from the King Arthur Flour bag

1 cup whole wheat flour

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

1 Tbsp cinnamon

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature

½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup dark brown sugar, packed

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1 cup buttermilk or plain yogurt

2 large apples, cored and coarsely chopped

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Grease or line muffin tin.

Mix together the flours, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon and set aside. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and add the granulated sugar and 14 cup of the brown sugar. Beat until fluffy. Add the egg and mix well; stop once to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl. Mix in the buttermilk gently. (If you over-mix, the buttermilk will cause the mixture to curdle.) Stir in the dry ingredients and fold in the apple chunks.

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, sprinkling the remaining 1/4 cup brown sugar on top. Bake for 10 minutes, turn the heat down to 400°F, and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Cool the muffins for 5 minutes in the tin, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

30 Life: Post 2- Panama

2011-02-14T09:14:00.000-08:00

In June 2005 my brothers and Dad began to plan a trip to Panama with my grandma. Panama is where she was born and lived until she was 30 and I didn't intend to miss something so epic, so I invited myself to come along. Three months later I found myself landing, sans Offspring and Phil, in Panama City, Panama. It was hot, humid, and raining "gatos y perros". I waited outside the very small baggage claim of the very small airport looking for someone familiar. Twenty-minutes later my brother and cousin roll up in another prima's SUV and load me up. From there we drove to my tia Lelia's house where I was reunited with long lost relatives. Much was lost in translation, but there were many hugs and kisses--and that was really all that needed to be communicated.

My two brothers, Dad, grandma and I spent the week seeing the sites, meeting long-lost family members, eating new foods, and for the first time, truly experience our heritage. We would drive down streets slowly as my grandmother pointed out stores she frequented as a little girl, and the window of a childhood friends home. She would get lost in the memories of the past and we would go with her, absorbing as much as we could of this lifetime we never knew.

This week is a treasure to me, especially now. What a gift it was to experience Panama alongside my grandma, because now when I think of or see pictures of the canal not only do I see an architectural feat, but I think of how my Grandparents met. When I see the pristine beaches I think of the look on my grandmother's face when she told me about their honeymoon there. When I look at the beautiful buildings of Panama viejo I remember the longing and love in her voice as she recalled her childhood. Panama is a beautiful country to be sure, but it is made most beautiful by the heritage it possesses for me.

One of the many gorgeous vistas on the Pacific side. If you look closely, you can see the line of ships in the distance lined up waiting to pass through the canal.

One day we went to a traditional restaurant where they had traditional performers. Fancy.

I loved the look of this sunken ship.

A cargo ship passing through the lochs.

Someplace pretty.

The real reason we came. Such beautiful ladies!

The church where my grandma was baptized as a baby.

Panama viejo, where my Grandma grew up.

Home.

gone, but not really

2011-02-09T14:11:00.000-08:00

GG on her 89th birthday.

A couple Saturday's ago my computer died.

Three days later so did my Grandma.

Coincidence? Entirely.

Both events were unpleasant, one much more so then the other. Clearly. My sweet little Grandma Lita was a spritely 89 years old when she passed, and up until a few weeks ago she was bowling and hiking with the rest of us. But 89 years old is 89 years old, and I guess she finished all she came here to do.

My computer met it's untimely demise at the hands of my 3 year old. It was not a peaceful departure, it involved loud sounds and perhaps a bit of cursing (but not from me).

Both events are finite, but only sort of.

Thankfully, for my computer and all my files we had an external hard-drive that has all but the last two months of our data stored on it. So, while my computer is gone it is only temporary. In a few days I'll have a new hard-drive and all will be restored to as it was.

My grandma's passing is very sad. We do and will continue to miss her, but her absence is only temporary. As a part of my faith we believe that death is not the end. That while she is gone from this earth her spirit lives on elsewhere, happily. We also believe that in due time our spirits will one day be reunited with their bodies, only a perfect version of them. Everything will be restored to as it was.

The confluence of these two events while very different in nature and importance (and Phil claims they might be a bit irreverent) were reminders that everything has an end, but our spirits live on and will also have another beginning.

I miss my grandma. She was cheerful and lovely and always there. Her absence is still quite raw, but I am so pleased to have known her and spent as much time as we had with her. I'm grateful for my knowledge of the atonement and the peace I feel when I think of her life and death.

One day, we'll see her again. And all will be restored.

*For more information on what I believe, click here.

30 Life- An intro and post 1

2011-01-28T09:13:00.000-08:00

To understand the point of this post (posts) you'll have to understand the context. My looming birthday where I turn the big 3-0 is only a few months away. Phil and I were talking about this last night and when I started to get all worked up and he wisely reminded me to take a chill pill. The conversation moved on, and we began to chat about all the hullabaloo in Egypt. Offhandedly, I reminded him I'd been to Egypt (technically) and then bored him with stories of snorkeling in the Red Sea (which was awesome) while he drifted off to sleep. After he was soundly sleeping, I laid there for quite some time reminiscing about my time spent in the Middle East as well as other adventures I'd been on and I felt the need to record them. Most of my adventures were taken pre-blog and I wasn't a particularly fastidious journal keeper during that time, so I thought I'd start a series of posts called 30 Life. I'm going to choose 30 moments/experiences in my life that have either made me; ponder the insignificance of man (in a good way), inspired me, made me tear up, or in otherwise effected my life for good. This series is more to have a record of these events, than anything else. Also, I've decided to make my wedding to Phil and birth of my kids off-limits. Those events, of course, are the most meaningful of my life but I figured that's a given so my 30 experiences have to be outside of that. Also, they are in no particular order of importance.

So, there you have it. Hope you don't mind my walk down memory lane over the next few months.

30 Life- Post #1

The New York City Marathon

A decade ago I lived in cheap off-campus BYU housing called The Brittany. It was a monument to cinder block and function. I was not quite 20 and had just returned from a semester abroad. I was rooming with two of my good friends Carol & Cathy and a girl named Annette who was unlucky enough to be assigned to live with a bunch of immature 19-year-olds. But, that's not the point of this story.

This particular "apartment" complex had two buildings, one for boys one for girls. Like I said a monument to function. There was one apartment across from ours filled with smart, cute, interesting boys who were fun to talk to. We became pretty good friends. This particular group of young men had just returned from church missions and were looking for something to do so they decided to train for a marathon. One day/night/whatever while hanging out they offhandedly through out the challenge to my roommates and I to run one. I had no idea what a marathon was and stupidly said yes. After further investigation I realized a marathon was where you ran 26.2 miles in one go. Not one to back down from a challenge, even when common-sense is screaming to let this one go, I decided to train. My roommates and I were fairly good at following a plan and in October of that year ran the St. George, UT marathon. It was great and painful yada yada yada. But that's not the point of this story, either.

The point of this story is that, while training, I did many of my long runs with a boy from that apartment. He was cute and a bit nerdy and very fun to talk to. He'd slow down for me and I'd try and speed up for him. We did long runs together and would then go out to dinner afterwards. Long story short, it was Phil, and I fell in love and we got married and had babies. But, BEFORE we had babies we decided to carry on our courtship with running by training and running the NYC marathon together.

As it turns out, running with someone once you're already married to them isn't quite as romantic or fun as when you're dating. During our very brief runs together he'd get mad because I was so slow and I'd get annoyed he was running so fast. So we went solo. It was the best thing. We did both manage to get into the the NYC marathon that year and ran it, but not together.

Running this race has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. As far as the actual race goes it was pretty miserable. I trained, but not enough I guess, because about 3/4 of the way through my knee gave out. It was cold and I didn't bring any power gels relying on aide stations to provide them. But, when you're as slow as I am, they run out. It was miserable. I had $20 bucks in my shoe that I was tempted to dry out and use for subway fair but at about mile 20 I ran into a nice lady from Brazil/Chicago. She saw me whimpering in pain and frustration and literally took me under her wing. She was having some knee trouble too so we'd walk/run together. Eventually making our way up to the Bronx and then back down again into Manhattan. We collected struggling souls along the way and encouraged each other to finish since the crowds were long gone. As we winded our way through the final miles in Central Park it was dark and cold. I've long maintained that if you want to see the true spirit of athleticism and determination you should watch those who finish last. I was just weak and undertrained, but those around me were courageous and inspiring. While crossing the Bronx back into Manhattan I passed one of the hand-chair racers. He started hours before those who raced on foot and appeared to be struggling with Parkinson's. He had been at it for many more hours then I, in probably much more pain then I but he was still going determined to finish. I also ran along racers who were blind, had prosthetic limbs all still going. The amount of determination was overwhelming and I choked back tears nearly the entire time. The crowds were gone and the runners were sparse. NYC is famous for the amount of crowd support it turns out, but even New Yorkers have their limits and usually go home around the 6 hour mark, which is about the time those who need and deserve it most start to finish. The marathon was a remarkable testament to humanity. The determination it takes to finish a race and the camaraderie of those determined to not let you fail was a gift to witness. I wrote a little more eloquent record of my experience here if you'd like to read it.

I finished the race in about 6:30 minutes. The NYTimes published the list of names of finishers so long as you finish before 6 hours. I've long meant to write a letter-to-the-editor opposing this rule. Maybe this year.

Phil was anxiously waiting for me at the finish line. I was happy to see him and happy to be done. I did linger a bit after they gave me my medal to cheer on some of the finishers before finding Phil and limping back to our hotel room.

Funnily enough, I ran that race a couple years later about 10 months after I had Olivia. I was still slow, then, and we were living in NYC at the time so there was a big temptation to just go home, but I finished.

course map.

day after race, I was smiling through the pain.

an EXTREMELY unflattering photo of me trying to walk down the subway stairs. agony.

pre-race. clueless.

84 months old

2011-01-10T15:29:00.001-08:00

My little Offspring is 7 years old today. SEVEN!

I find the whole thing ridiculous. She can't possibly be that old. Four tops, but not seven.

Even still, we celebrated. We went bowling with family on Saturday, because we live close now and can do stuff like that. I made my famous carrot cake and we had pizza for dinner. She opened presents from loved ones and blew out the first set of candles. And we celebrated having her in our lives.

Today is her actual birthday.

We had a special birthday breakfast and made happy birthday signs for her chair.

Her school doesn't allow cupcakes or sweets, so I sent in a "birthday book" about animals instead. I guess it makes sense.

Tonight we are going to her favorite restaurant for dinner, IHOP. Of all the restaurants in the Bay Area this is her favorite. So much for having foodies as parents. She, obviously, is a big fan of breakfast foods.

And since I'm such a fan of lists, here are just a few things that make Offspring awesome:

she likes to make lists. :)

she is afraid of automatically flushing toilets.

she loves dry erase markers, and basically any office supply.

she loves breakfast foods.

she has probably at least 50 stuffed animals. I didn't buy them.

she can be goofy and has an infectious laugh.

she loves to explore outside and go on adventures.

she's a great big sister!

she is a voracious reader. right now she's reading the Little House series.

she loves animals and is very knowledgeable about them.

she isn't afraid to ask questions.

she loves school and is a good student.

she loves spending time with family.

she loves to write stories.

she is a very talented artist.

she likes to write letters to people.

she makes friends very easily.

she is a good example to her friends.

she loved playing on a softball team.

she's crazy about Harry Potter.

she's not really into Hannah Montana or any other Disney tween thing, yet.

she saved her money and bought an American Girl doll this past fall.

she can run on all fours, fast!

she has a very active and vivid imagination.

she prides herself on her acute sense of smell.

she has a great vocabulary.

one of her favorite things in the world is a fresh box of crayons.

she loves hummus.

and potato chips.

she's pretty cautious.

she's afraid of millipedes.

she hates having her hair done, which is why it's unruly most of the time.

she has a very happy and cheerful disposition most of the time.

she gives excellent hugs and still likes to snuggle me.

I love my little Offspring. I'm so lucky I get to be her momma.

It's not a resolution

2011-01-02T21:31:00.000-08:00

I turn 30 in May. It kinda makes me hyperventilate when I think about it. I didn't think I'd care, but I do. 30 is big. Grown-up big. Questioning your existence big. Crap, I'm hyperventilating again.

In effort to stop the rapid breathing associated with said birthday, I'm trying to get excited about it. I'm planning a gala in my honor, as well as trying to accomplish a few things between now and then so I don't feel like such a failure. An old failure.

So, without further ado-- here is my list of 30 things to accomplish before I'm 30.

1. Read the Book of Mormon, cover to cover.

2. Lose 30 pounds. Or more.

3. girls weekend away with friends.

4. Finish the frickin' nativity costumes I've been working on for the past 6 years.

5. Weekend away with Phil.

6. Take a cooking class. (Phil gave me a gift certificate for this for Christmas, so this one is kinda cheating but whatever.)

7. Hike to the top of Mt.Diablo.

8. Go on a date with Phil at least once a month.

9. Run a race, or at least sign up to run a race. (preferably a 1/2 marathon, but I'd do a 5K)

10. Submit my parent's names to the Vatican to be considered for sainthood.

11. Renew my passport.

12. Read 2 books a month. I'm taking recommendations.

13. Make my own hummus.

14. Plant my lemon tree.

15. Reconnect with old friends that live near-by.

16. Spend less time on my iphone.

17. Paint my bathroom.

18. Get new make-up.

19. Buy new shoes--believe it or not, I have a really hard time deciding on shoes.

20. Write a short story.

21. Make a new friend.

22. Plan a vacation.

23. Make a bird feeder with my kids.

24. Take another photography class.

25. Decorate my front room, for reals.

26. Go golfing.

27. Plant a garden.

28. give up diet coke for a day.

29. buy myself flowers at least once a month.

30. learn a new skill, like neurosurgery.

Sounds simple enough, right?

Let the checking off begin.

Tick tock.

The Thick of It

2010-12-16T09:26:00.000-08:00

It occurred to me the other day, somewhere between changing The Third's 5th poopy diaper, picking up Offspring from school, and making dinner in a crock-pot that this is the thick of things as far as my parenting life is concerned.

We are, for all intensive purposes, settled. I have 3 kids, a mini-van that teeters between being disgusting and hazardous, and a busy daily schedule that revolves around other people. This is the thick of it. What I'd been excited for/dreading since I was first married. This is the stuff parenting books are made of. If my life were a pot of caramel, it'd be at the "soft crack" phase. (can you tell, I'm getting ready for Christmas?)

It's chaos. It's a kids fighting in the back-seat, wiping up throw-up at 3 am, dodging blows kinda life. It's also a lots of snuggles, hugs, notes, and sweet kisses kinda life. I had a day last week where I wanted out. I had just listened to 2 hours of bickering screams in the car, my house was a mess and I was done. Just done. I drove in the garage and was (mercifully) greeted by Phil. I think he could sense my desperation and took care of the night-time routines for me while I laid in bed with the covers over my head. Thankfully, I don't have too many days where I'm driven to that sort of extreme (immature) behavior. But they do happen. As I laid there, like an ostrich, trying to block out my responsibilities with a down comforter I reminded myself this is the thick of it. This is where things get sticky. This is what can make or break me. Having babies is easy for me, having kids? I'm still working on it.

Like most things awareness is key. I'm aware this is the tricky part, even if it is just one of many tricky parts that lie ahead. I'm aware and accepted, that at this point in my life it is OK to not shower until 2:00. I'm aware and OK with the fact that everything in my house will at some point be pooped on or destroyed. It's just where we're at.

I also know this phase is fleeting. I do my best to savor most moments because I know it won't last. Before I know it we'll be in the "hard crack" phase of parenting teenagers. (I was alluding to my caramel analogy, not the drug...in case you were confused). Breaking up a fist fight over a toy is easy, solving teenage angst? Much more tricky.

So for now, we bubble along. In the sticky-thick of things.

Now off to shower....

Things that make me cringe

2010-12-05T22:32:00.000-08:00

-The Wiki-leaks dude. Creepy air of self-importance. Big tool.

- The headline I read tonight "Sarah Palin and Kate Gosslein go camping". Yikes, who thought of that one? Add Dick Cheney in the mix and then it'd be a party!

- Racist jokes told during Sunday School. I don't think it was intentional...but still. Poor form.

- Only 3 weeks until Christmas and I haven't sent out cards yet. Oh boy.

Grateful: Day 30 or What I'd say at the Oscars

2010-12-03T16:15:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful for my family. All forms of them.

My family of friends from all our different stops. I've found dear friends in California, Utah, New York, Las Vegas and Virginia (and some in between stops). I feel so blessed to have associations with so many wonderful, diverse, intelligent, beautiful, amazing people. (that's YOU!)

My family that raised me and tolerated me during my teen years and who we now get to spend more time with. They are wonderful people who I love to pieces. I'm so happy to be related to them.

My family that I married in to. They are an example of compassion, loyalty, and patience and I'm grateful for their example.

My family that I've created. I love my husband and three beautiful children. They are my world and I'm so glad I get to spend my life (and beyond) with them.

as a side note: I'm also grateful for my fridge. It's been a month now we've been without one and it finally arrived today. I heard the Hallelujah chorus in my head as they brought it in.

Grateful: Day 29

2010-11-30T12:31:00.000-08:00

I didn't blog last night because I was too busy catching up on Modern Family and Community on Hulu.

So, today I am grateful for hulu. It makes not having cable, OK.

Grateful: Day 28

2010-11-28T21:52:00.000-08:00

random photo of Numero dos at the light house in Corolla, NC. (a.k.a. heaven)

I'm grateful for our new ward. I don't know very many people yet, and I miss our old friends in Arlington...but I'm excited to get to know and serve new people. Everyone seems great and I look forward to raising my children here.

I'm grateful for beautiful music. One of my most favorite things about this time of year is being able to sing Christmas hymns. I love the melody and the words and the spirit they bring into my life.

I'm also grateful for Nana and Papa's house. I like that we're close and that they are willing to feed us frequently, which is a good thing since we don't have a fridge yet. Fingers crossed it will be delivered on Friday. We're all growing wary of canned soups.

Grateful: Day 27

2010-11-27T22:40:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful for the temple.

Grateful: Day 26

2010-11-27T11:42:00.001-08:00

I'm grateful for all the "useful engines" in my family who came over to our house today and helped paint, organize the garage, and put Offsprings room back together.

Many hands make light work and I'm grateful for the many willing and able hands that took a day to come help.

I'm also grateful for the hike we took after we were finished. What a beautiful day!

Grateful: Day 25

2010-11-26T00:16:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful for:

food

family

friends, near and far

freshly painted rooms

fairly mild winters

future plans

and a loving Heavenly Father who gives me much to be grateful for.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Grateful: Day 24

2010-11-25T10:22:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful for my husband. He is the butter to my bread.

We were able to sneak away for a night this past weekend to Carmel, CA. It was only 24 hours but it is rejuvinating to spend time with him. He is my best friend. I love that he likes to explore new places with me. I love long car rides with him because he's so interesting to talk to. He stretches me, loves me, and is the best thing that happened to me.

I'm grateful for Phil.

(and for Nana and Papa who watched our youngin's while we snuck away)

Grateful: Day 20 & 21 (&23)

2010-11-22T09:41:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful for my babies. All three of them. They are growing, growing, growing but will always be my babies. They make my life full and stretch me into being a better person. Because of them I am acutely aware of my weaknesses as well as my strengths. I love them to the moon and back. I love spending time with them, but I cherish the "breaks" as well. Having a night off makes me even happier to see them the next day.

Day 20: I'm grateful for Offspring. She is beautiful, creative, imaginative, funny and smart. She can be helpful and kind. She isn't afraid to ask questions and thrives on learning new things. She loves people and people love her. She lives life with a type of electric current that attracts others. I love her dearly and am so glad I get to be her mum.

Day 21: I'm grateful for Numero dos. He is a reserved soul with dimples to die for. He is tender hearted and self-less. He is quick to remember others and loves to snuggle. I'm am grateful he is physically active and has a great imagination. He loves animals and nature. He is inquisitive, and thoughtful and a staunch negotiator. He is incredibly hard to say no to. I love spending my days with him!

Day 22: I'm grateful for The Third. He is the cherry on top of a very delicious sundae. He has a very sweet disposition and is happy most of the time. He smiles constantly and loves to explore. His new found mobility has opened a whole new world to him and he explores it endlessly. He loves his sibling fiercely and thinks they are hilarious. He loves food, and being with others when he eats the food. He loves movement and rhythm. I am so happy I get to raise him.

Grateful: Day 19

2010-11-19T22:46:00.001-08:00

Numero dos sharing the cousinly love over Thomas the Tank Engine.

I'm grateful for a cousin who came to visit and helped me run errands this morning.

I'm grateful for The Counter and their delicious veggie burgers and sweet potato fries.

I'm grateful for automobiles. We have two now that serve their purpose quite well most of the time.

I'm grateful for my babies. (more on that tomorrow)

I'm grateful for the rain. Drip, drip, drop.

Grateful: Day 16, 17, & 18 (i like to consolidate)

2010-11-18T13:08:00.000-08:00

humiliating image of my dog in a princess costume. I didn't buy it.

day 16- Missionaries. They raked my leaves today because they knew I had a bazillion other things on my plate. I really appreciated their service.

day 17- No longer having to drive Phil to BART (the new metro). I loved spending extra time with him but it was a bit of a drag to haul the kiddies back and forth. He's on his own now!

day 18- Preschool for Numero dos. Moving mid-year has a host of challenges, one of the biggest being trying to find a preschool that isn't full. I looked, fretted, and lamented for 2 weeks until I found one that was close, cheap, and fantastic. It's nice when things work out! Numero dos can be socialized and I can have two mornings a week with only one kid! Everybody wins.

Grateful: Day 15

2010-11-16T09:41:00.000-08:00

Numero dos and his homespun rocket pack. Trying on different helmet possibilities. Taken with my OLD phone.

I'm grateful to finally have my husband back. He's been helping fight injustices in the Caribbean for the past week and we've missed him. Even though he works a lot when he's state-side he is still nice to have around. Especially on weekends.

I'm grateful for a new phone. It's pretty and there is no longer any risk of a glass shard getting lodged in my cheek.

I'm grateful for Brinee (the collective name of my brother and his wife). They didn't mind too much when Numero dos threw up all over their house tonight. And they fed us enchiladas. And they make cute babies.

Grateful: day 14

2010-11-14T22:46:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful for church. I know it's important to go. Even when I have to drag three children with me by myself while Phil's out of town to a brand-new ward where I'm not able to attend even one meeting because I'm trying to get Numero dos to quit spitting and screaming about how he doesn't want to go to nursery.

Still grateful for church.

And I'm especially grateful for the afternoon naps that follow church which allow me a few hours to rest and read the most recent conference talks in the Ensign. They rejuvenate me. This talk was especially meaningful to me today.

grateful: day 12 & 13

2010-11-13T23:11:00.000-08:00

Day 12: Nature. The kiddos and I were able to spend a good chunk of time yesterday exploring the open space behind our house. I love the unique landscape of California and the warmer weather that lets us spend so much time outside. I'm also grateful for giant pine cones and odd shaped nuts that we found a long the way. They were hours of entertainment.

Day 13: I'm grateful for Nana and her house, specifically when she takes my children to her house for a sleepover. They have a great time and I get a full nights rest. Thanks, Nana!

Grateful: days 10 & 11

2010-11-11T22:41:00.000-08:00

Day 10: Offspring's new school. I admit, it was hard to leave the Arlington schools to come to a bankrupt state, but considering everything else I am really pleased with her new school and teacher. The teacher keeps tortoises and lets them wander around the class sometimes. How awesome is that? Assuming no one gets salmonella.

Day 11: INTERNET! No more posting/web-surfing/emailing from my teeny-tiny phone. Which is a good thing considering I ran over said phone earlier this evening. Dang it.

Grateful: day 8

2010-11-09T16:11:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful for kids that play together (sometimes) and for a
backyard for them to wear themselves out in.

Grateful: day 7

2010-11-07T22:42:00.001-08:00

Grateful for nearby family. It's so nice to be able to see them on a
regular basis!

Sent from my iPhone

grateful: day 5 & 6

2010-11-06T20:40:00.001-07:00

-moving companies.

- happy children and a new house that feels like home.

Gratitude month: day 4

2010-11-05T09:03:00.001-07:00

I'm grateful for our new house.

Gratitude Month: Day 3

2010-11-03T22:33:00.000-07:00

I'm grateful for new friends and old friends that introduce me to new friends. And just friends in general.

Especially blog friends.

And ESPECIALLY blog friends who leave comments.

Gratitude Month: Day 1 & 2

2010-11-02T14:05:00.000-07:00

Last year a friend of mine challenged me to blog about something I'm
grateful for everyday during the month on November. I did it and was
glad I did. This year she sent out the same challenge and I'm inclined
to take it

Sent from my iPhone

...Update: post continued-- this is what I get for trying to blog from my phone. I go to zoom in and then voila, it is published. Good thing I didn't write anything embarrassing.

So, as I was saying. It's gratitude month. Last year I did it, and really enjoyed the extra dose of thankful that was brought into my life, so I'm going to do it again.

I'm a day behind, which seems to be the story of my life...so I"m doing two thankfuls today.

Day 1: I am thankful for warm weather. California is fantastic. It's been a steady 72 degrees for the past week and I love it! The blue skies and sunshine are also a nice bonus. Good weather means more outside park time, which does a whole lota good for both my youngin's and myself.

Day 2: I'm grateful for my mini-van. I'll admit, I was once a hater. I resisted the 7 seat, double doors for a good long while. Sacrificing space for "coolness". (if a Prius was EVER considered cool) But last year I converted, lured in by the automatic double doors and cupholders. And it has served me well. It toted us all over the east coast. It delivered us safely to the west coast, and now it is helping me commute offspring 30 minutes a day to her school. Thankfully, we only have a 3 more days of that before we move to our permenant digs much, much closer in.

The end.

Happy Hallow-weekend

2010-10-29T11:45:00.001-07:00

So, we're cramming all of our October festivities into one week. Our packing/moving/journey was a time warp that took up the first half of the month, so we're a little short on time.

This week we picked out our pumpkins at the pumpkin patch next to our soon-to-be-house. The kids were delighted at the selection and I was happy to pay the inflated prices for the "experience". Part of the experience also included lounging in a kiddie pool full of lima beans. I kid you not, in addition to a hay maze and ball toss they also had a pool full of beans (uncooked) that the kids could play in. Kinda like a sand box, only with beans. It was the highlight of the trip.
(note to self: stock up on dried beans)

We also made some crafts. A pumpkin wreath from Michael's hardly worth describing, and a couple ghosts made out of cheesecloth. They ghosts are still drying so the success of the craft is still TBD. I wish I were more crafty, but I don't have the patience.

On Tuesday, we frantically threw together costumes. Every year I have the best intentions of having my kids coordinate in some witty, home spun creation. Each year August rolls around and I think to myself now is the time to get started, and each year I procrastinate/draw-a-blank/or otherwise flake on doing anything about my intentions. Ces't la vie. So, Tuesday rolls around and we went to one of the THREE temporary Halloween stores set up in town. I've never felt so bamboozled in my life! Perhaps it's my naivety but I was expecting witches hats and Dracula fangs. Instead, I spent the whole time shielding my kids eyes from the statue of a possessed two-headed baby. Or, trying to avoid letting them see the bag of faux severed heads hanging from the ceiling. Oh the horror! (which is, I suppose, the point). They really shouldn't sell Buzz Light Year costumes along side demon, human-eating clowns, or skanky wizards for that matter. Maybe stores should have a rating system similar to a movie? Food for thought. Despite my disgust we made it out of the store in record time, B.L.Y. and cat costume in hand. Mission completa!

And now begins the Halloween weekend. Not only do we get one night of sugar shock, but(thanks to various family members' ward trunk-or-treats) we get 3 crazy nights! My body is going into insulin shock just thinking about it.

Happy Halloween, everybody.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
(for my WW peeps...these cookies are only 1 pt)

2 boxes spice cake mix
1 large can of pumpkin puree
1 bag chocolate chips

mix together, bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes. Enjoy.

travels across america: the conclusion

2010-10-24T20:25:00.000-07:00

We pulled into my parents driveway at 1:32 am. Like a flock of misguided migratory birds we had zig-zaged our way across the country and finally found our way home. Our migration was complete.

Earlier that day we spent a lovely Saturday morning with Phil's family in Idaho Falls, ID. It was great to see them but we had to cut our visit a bit short due to a forecasted storm looming about. We left Blackfoot Idaho around 1:30 that afternoon. We stopped at the Maverick where Phil got pumpkin frozen yogurt and I got a hot chocolate where I was once again reminded how awesome the Maverick is. After a few minor adjustments we were on our way, headed due South-West into another vast expanse of nothing-ness. If I've learned anything on this trip it's that even nothing-ness can be beautiful (at least for the first 3 hours). From the endless corn fields of Iowa to the farm lands of South Dakota to the rocky plains of Idaho, this earth is breathtaking.

We had a DVD free-for-all through the Nevada desert and Offspring watched no less than 4 movies. As the children vegged out, Phil and I talked politics and our plans upon arrival. Up until now, the journey was what consumed my plans and thoughts. Our arrival seemed a far off pipe-dream, to transcendent to every do anything about. But as the miles ticked closer to California I began to realize all the things that needed to be done to establish us as residents of the Golden State.

In Nevada it began to rain. It rained a lot. And then the wind began to blow. Seeing as Nevada is indeed a desert this was something I didn't really anticipate. Up until now our weather has been perfect. Our squeaky windshield wipers worked overtime to swipe the pounding rain aside. In rained nearly the entire time. Around 9:45 we crossed over the CA/NV border and began our ascent up the Sierra Nevada mountains. By this time is was dark, still rainy, and a getting late. Treacherous is a fitting word for the conditions. Phil was determined to press-on and seeing as all 3 of the kids were fast asleep I had to concur. We took it slow and I told him how to drive, which he appreciated greatly. The wind blew, the rain came down, but the van on the rock stood still. We made it down the mountain without incident and continued on. In Sacramento the rain and wind were still going at it. Add to that my paranoia of drunk-drivers and I was a ball of nerves. We made it safely home, though, and breathed a great sigh of relief as we pulled into my parents home. Upon arrival we took out the necessities and collapsed in a heap.

This morning I woke up with no where to go (other than church). I didn't have to pack a suitcase or organize the car. I didn't look at the atlas once and spent less than a total of 10 minutes in a car. We are now Californian's. Up until now we'd always been the visitors from the East, here for a finite time. Now we're neighbors. It will be an adjustment period. One that I'm sure will go faster once we're in our own home in a couple weeks. The kids are excited, and we had a large family dinner last night that reminded me why we made the trek in the first place.

Our migration west was an exercise in faith, patience, and family togetherness. Although not always smooth it was a wonderful experience where we were able to make memories as a family and see parts of this country that we never would have seen otherwise. I'm glad we did it and I'm glad we're here.

This is Erin in small-town, CA. Signing out.

travels across america- day 6 & 7 (geeze...how long is this trip going to take!?)

2010-10-22T21:26:00.000-07:00

Wyoming is large and expansive and large and beautiful and monotonous and full of antelope and dead skunks and large and friendly and full of cowboys and large. Did I mention it is large? Yesterday was the day I'd been dreading. One full day of driving with not much to break it up other than Casper. And while it is the birthplace of a dear former roommate of mine (P.S. Carol- I did remember it was your birthplace and we acknowledged it accordingly... also, happy birthday!) it leaves much to be desired as far as entertaining a bunch of weary travelers is concerned.

We actually managed to wake up early this day and were on the road by about 6:30. The sky was a glorious shade of blue as the sun did it's best to wake up South Dakota. We bid adieu to the faces in the mountain and made our way through the beautiful rolling Black Hills and were driving steadily on the plains of central Wyoming by just after eight-o-clock. We made great time (which is easy to do with a 75 mph speed limit) on the small two lane roads that connect SD with Casper. As we drove deeper into the West the gurgle in my youngest child's chest became more and more rattly. It is a sound that I am all to familiar with, and is the same sound that landed us in the hospital on two separate occasions. I was prepared this time. I had a fantastic and fore thoughtful pediatric pulmonologist who preemptively prescribed an arsenal of medications for us. (boy was that sentence a mouthful) We just had to make it to Casper. Once stopped at a funky-smelling gas station I unloaded our nebulizer and high-tailed it to the nearest outlet...which happened to be next to the deep fryer in the short-order kitchen. The Third and I spent a quality 15 minutes with some albuterol and some friendly Casperian gas-station clerks who found my kids almost as adorable as my dog. After a neb treatment both The Third and I were feeling much better and pressed onward towards Jackson Hole, WY. Somehow I knew once I made it to Jackson everything would be alright.

Four hours later we were there. And hot dang we had the hotel room to beat all hotel rooms. October is their off-season and we were able to score a luxury suite at a fantastic price. It had a kitchen, a fire place, a separate bedroom, and outlets to spare. Not to mention a pool, balcony, and views of heaven on earth. All five of us were happy to be there and stretch our legs. I continued to give The Third his nebs as well as breaking out the big-guns (prednisolone) to help his wheezing be less wheezy. We all had a good rest that night.

The next morning (today) we woke up bright and early. We're still on Eastern Time and 6:00 is as good a time as any to get up for my kids. I was able to hit the gym early and when I came back Phil took the kids to the pool for a little water frolicking. Later that morning, just as the boys were going down for a morning nap, Phil's parents came up from Idaho Falls to spend the day with us. So we lounged about our sweet suite for a bit and waited for them to wake up. And, when 12:00 rolled around and they were still snoozing we poked them a bit until they did. Once awake we loaded our stinky suitcases into our stinky van and went to pick up our stinky dog at the kennel where he spent the night.

Then we walked around Jackson Hole for a bit looking at the variety of stuffed wildlife for sale and finally finding a place to eat lunch. We ate at a place called The Bunnery which had tasty vegetable soup and yummy buns (obviously). It was a lovely lunch with minimal spillage from my children. Success!

After lunch we drove down a terrifyingly windy mountain road to Rexburg, ID where we met up with my studious second brother Derek. Around here he's known as CRAZY uncle DD. The kids thought he was hilarious. Probably because he is. He gave us a quick tour de Rexburg and his love life before we went to dine at the fine establishment of Wingers. It was a happenin' place on a Friday night and we had to wait. Boo. But the wings were good, and they added cherry to my Diet Coke, so all was forgiven.

From there we drove down to Idaho Falls or "I.F." as the locals call it. We'll spend tomorrow morning with Phil's family before we make our last and final push to California. If all goes well we'll be in the Golden State by midnight tomorrow. If all doesn't go well, we'll be in Winnemucca.

Wish us luck. Our life as nomads is coming to a close!

This is Erin in Idaho Falls signing out. Out.

travels across America- day 5

2010-10-20T19:41:00.000-07:00

I suppose it was inevitable, a trip to urgent care seems par for the course of any major road trip. Poor little Offspring got a fever a couple of days ago while we were in Illinois. It has been progressively getting worse and added a horrible sounding cough so we decided to take her to urgent care while we were in Sioux Falls and still in civilization. She was diagnosed with pneumonia, given a hearty dose of antibiotics to take with us, and deemed well enough to travel--because really, what choice do we have? Poor little lady was a groggy, hacky mess, and a piece of cake to travel with.

Today was supposed to be a short day. Five hours to Keystone, SD and we'd be done. Nothing ever works that way, obviously. We got a late start due to the illness described above, then we stopped no less than 5 times for various reasons. Tedious would be an understatement. Finally, around 3:30 we made it to Rapid City. The topography changes fairly dramatically once you reach Rapid City. Instead of a sea of rolling prairie it becomes more dramatic hills speckled with evergreens and rock outcroppings. We wound our way up the Black Hills bound for Mt. Rushmore. Seeing the silly faces in the rocks were the whole reason for this horribly out of the way northern route we're on. I must say, it did not disappoint! Mt. Rushmore was everything I'd hoped it would be and then some. The Hitchcock film "North By Northwest" was on my mind the whole time, as was that Nicholas Cage flick. The kids seemed to be moderately impressed with this national landmark, and Offspring could name all the faces on her own and even give a little fact about each one.

We are now settled into our hotel at the base of the mountain. I expect George, Tom, Teddy, and Link will keep a watchful eye out for us tonight and send happy dreams our way. We're going to need it. Tomorrow we tackle the behemoth that is Wyoming. I've been dreading this day for months. Wish us luck.

This is Erin in Keystone, SD signing out.

editors note: October is by far the best time to road trip. The weather is nice, the roads are clear and the sights are deserted! I'd highly recommend it! Just don't get sick.

travels across america- day 4

2010-10-20T05:05:00.000-07:00

M-I-S-S-I-S-S-I-P-P-I

"Is this heaven?"
"No, it's Iowa"

Our grand ambitions of leaving by 6 am everyday have so far been foiled by either the dog, the kids, or the fact that we were driving so little that it made no sense whatsoever to get up that early. We rolled out of Nauvoo at 9:15 in the morning, making a quick stop in Burlington, Iowa to pick up our pooch who spent the past couple of days in a kennel.

First, can I just give a shout out to the Mississippi River (I love spelling that). It's enormous! We had to cross it a few times and each time we did I liked to imagine Huck Finn floating down the river in his raft.

Once we were in Iowa, we drove. Alot. Our trip was extended by about an hour because I wanted to visit Deyersville, IA which is where the Field of Dreams field is. I don't think I would have gone out of my way much more then an hour, but it was a fun little diversion. Numero dos was utterly confused as to what we were doing there. He kept asking where all the people were. I think he thought we'd be seeing an actual baseball game, rather than running around an empty baseball diamond. Still it was a fun little detour. That was the highlight of the day.

The next 6 hours were spent driving through hundreds of miles of farm land (mostly corn). We stopped briefly for dinner at The Ranch in Minnesota where exceptional hospitality compensated for a mediocre meal. We finally arrived in Sioux Falls, SD last night. Grateful for a reprieve.

As you can tell we're not taking the most direct route. Instead, we're zig-zagging our way through the midwest seeing all the sights I'd always wanted to see but never really have a reason or chance to go visit. Today the plan is to conquer Mt.Rushmore. Hopefully all will work out. As I type this Phil is taking Offspring to Urgent Care to get a suspicious fever and cough looked at. We figured this is our last "city" for the next 1,000 miles so any ailments are best treated before rather then later. Numero dos also has a cold, but so far my newest and most illness prone child (The Third) has avoided being sick. Knock on wood!! I've taken an arsinal of medication incase he does, but I truly hope we don't need it while on the road!

Fingers crossed that Offspring will get an antibiotic and that Rapid City has wireless so I can let you know how the day turned out.

This is Erin in Sioux Falls, signing out.

travels across America- days 2 & 3

2010-10-19T19:38:00.000-07:00

The Nauvoo Temple

Offspring and Numero dos in a rare demonstration of team work, making rope.

harses. (spelled incorrectly on purpose so don't edit me Phil)

The bullet hole and room in Carthage jail where Joseph Smith was martyred.

We eagerly left Indianapolis Sunday morning, bound for Nauvoo, IL. Nauvoo is an obscure, internetless, out of the way little town on the Illinois side of the Mississippi river. It wouldn't be more then a gas stop and good view if it weren't for the deep historical significance it holds for those of my faith.

Nauvoo was founded by Mormon's way back in the mid 1800's. They built it up from a nothing swamp land to a fairly bustling community after they were driven out of Missouri after an extermination order was signed. For a while this worked well. Homes were built and a temple was constructed at much cost and sacrifice to the saints who were living there. Joseph Smith was the prophet at the time and helped organize and lead not only the church but the community as well. Until in June of 1844 the prophet Joseph Smith was arrested and while he was incarcerated in Carthage jail was murdered by an angry mob. A couple years later, the saints were forced to leave Nauvoo and go West in search of a home where they would be safe and left in peace, eventually settling in the Salt Lake valley.

You can imagine visiting a city with such a legacy of faith and sacrifice can be very humbling. We arrived in Nauvoo on Sunday afternoon. Our first stop was to the newly (as in 8 yrs old) constructed temple. It sits on the exact site where the original temple once stood before it was burned to the ground. It is a beautiful building set on a hill overlooking the Mississippi river, with an exterior that matches the original temple. It glows as the sun rises and sets.

After a 5 hour long car ride the significance of such a site was completely lost on my young children. They were much more interested in rolling down the large hill in front of the temple rather than looking up at it and pondering eternity with me, which is fair enough. Five hours is a long time in the car. After fulfilling Olivia's life-long dream of running through a meadow, we made our way to the visitors' center where we were able to view (30 sec each) a few artifacts and displays from the time. One of the very nice couple missionaries* there, suggested (after watching Numero dos scale a statue of the pioneers) that we might like to visit the Pioneer Family Living center, which is a series of demonstrations of crafts from that time period. She was right. The kids were able to make their own rope, hear how barrels were made, try some freshly baked bread and learn about candle making. All in all, it was a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon and made me (and hopefully the children) grateful for all the modern conveniences.

Freshly made rope in hand, we went to the old Zion's Mercantile Building and checked into our room for the night. It was a beautiful old building that overlooked the temple and had three giant beds, two rooms, a mini-fridge, and cable. What more can you ask for? Dinner. But finding food on a Sunday night in Nauvoo, IL can be quite the challenge. We finally settled for pizza from Casey's take-out in the local gas station. The pizza was everything you would imagine a pizza from a gas station would be. That night we went to bed at 7:13 pm and slept through the night. It was the best sleep I've had in a long time.

Monday we woke up and Phil and I took turns attending a temple session in the Nauvoo temple. It is a beautiful building and I cherished the time I was able to spend inside. While I was in the temple Phil took the kids on a wagon ride (free!) through old Nauvoo. Apparently, it was quite the ride with a narrated history to boot. From what I can tell Phil loved it, Offspring enjoyed it, and Numero dos tried to jump off the wagon several times before falling asleep during the last ten minutes. The Third was strapped to Phil so I'm pretty sure he just laughed at the rest of them.

After my trip to the temple, and Phil's trip on the wagon we met up and drove about 20 minutes to Carthage, IL. This other obscure po-dunk town is also historically significant because this is where Joseph Smith was murdered while being held in jail. The building still stands and we were able to take a tour of it. Much of the building remains as it was at the time--even the bullet holes in the door are still there. It was a touching and humbling place to visit. It gave me a greater appreciation for Joseph Smith who was willing to sacrifice everything for his faith.

After our trip out to Carthage we drove back to Nauvoo and visited more Old Town Nauvoo. This is a series of restored period buildings. They are staffed by missionaries from our church dressed in period dress who explain what the building was used for and by whom. We visited the gunsmith shop (Phil's choice) and the post-office (Offspring's choice). If was fascinating to learn about the people who once lived there and who worked so hard to establish themselves only to be forced to leave all their hard work behind and move west only a few years later.

The couple of mornings we were in Nauvoo I was able to get in my morning runs all by myself. October is a beautiful and quiet time there and the early mornings are especially peaceful. The busy tourist season is over and everyone is winding down and preparing for the coming winter. As I ran through town and out to the Mississippi I relished the peaceful feelings this place provided. I tried to imagine how difficult it must have been to pack up your entire belongings in a wagon in the frigid February air and leave the city you loved. I tried to imagine how difficult it must have been to explain to your children why you had to leave. I tried to imagine how heart breaking it must have been to leave behind a temple you sacrificed so much for. As I ran down Parley street in the crisp morning air I felt immense gratitude for those who chose to sacrifice so much.

This morning we packed up our car to the brim and headed West.

travels across america- day 1

2010-10-16T18:28:00.000-07:00

One of our dozens of good-byes.

FFA

Wandering through a corn maze in Ohio. Who'd a thunk.

What's a trip to a dairy farm without a bit of ice-cream?!

I tried to stay organized. It didn't work. We're in survival mode now.

In June we decided to move. We told the children and they were excited. They asked me when we'd be moving, so I told them when the leaves changed color and started to fall we would leave. In the sweltering humidity of June, the idea of a crisp fall seems forever away. But like most things in life, October came quickly and yesterday we bid a fond farewell to our dear Arlington. The leaves had changed, and it was time for us to go.

We left our house on Manchester Street at 6:14 that evening. Waving farewell to our neighbors and the old house that served us so well over the past couple of years. It was sad to go, but we went.

We didn't get far, though. We stopped in Bethesda to have a hotel-room dinner with Phil's brother and his family. A few episodes of "The Wizards of Waverly Place" later and we were on the road, bound for some obscure town in West Virginia that doesn't exist on our GPS or the road atlas. It was 9:00 and we had 5 hours to go. Phil has just recently broken his 2 year hiatus from caffeinated diet sodas so sleepiness was not a factor. That and he tried the infamous "5 Hour Energy Drink" after receiving a strong endorsment from a member of our Stake Presidency. Phil can testify, it works.

The kids slept the whole first leg. Awaking only briefly as we transfered them into our first of 9 hotels on the road (The Comfort Inn---it's pet friendly). At this point Phil's 5 hours worth of energy had run out and we both collapsed onto the bed at 2:30. At 6:30 Numero dos woke up. I begged, pleaded, bribed him to go back to bed to no avail. So we helped ourselves to the free continental breakfast and mingled with the locals whil Offspring and Phil woke up.

We got on the road by 10:30 headed due west towards Ohio. After about three hours of driving we were just outside of Dayton ready for our first of a handful of detours scheduled for this trip. At the recommendation of my dear friend and master harpest Athy (who birthed her first baby yesterday!) we stopped at Young Jersey Dairy. Jersey as in the cow, not the state. It was busy, like most farms in the fall, but we had a great time. I ate some deep fried goodness smothered in gravy for the first time in my life. It was tasty, but I probably won't do that again. We then went through a corn maze, pet a cow, and (of course) ate some ice-cream. (Pumpkin and cinnamon) Three hours after we stopped we loaded everybody and the dog back into the car for our final stretch to Indianopolis. That's a grand total of 5 hours of driving today. Pretty wimpy, but that perfectly suits us right now. We're going to eventually have to put in some longer stretches towards the end of the week but for now we're enjoying our leisurely tour 'de middle america.

A few observations from the day:

-In West Virginia the gas clerk called me "honey" and "sugar"
In Ohio it was " Mam"
Haven't been to the gas station in Indiana yet.

-Targets are kinda like the church. They are the same no matter where you go. It's comforting.

-We passed approximately 8 Cracker Barrels on our drive today. I have yet to ever eat at one, but it's nice to know there are plenty around...should I be so inclined.

-Apparently, it's huntin' season.

...I'd blog more but I'm falling asleep. Until next time. This is Erin in Indianapolis, signing out.

Pen-pal Party

2010-10-10T11:04:00.001-07:00

I'm a sucker for themed parties, you all know that.

I couldn't pass up the opportunity to have one last hurrah for Offspring and her gal-pals.

In an attempt to let Offspring say farewell to all her friends at once we did a pen-pal party. Not to much effort went into this one. I picked up a few supplies from the Target and ordered pizza and that's about it, but everyone seemed to have a good time and Offspring has a handful of friends to write.

Each girl got their own address book, fancy pen, chapstick, and made some stationary to take home.

It was a great way to use my scrapbooking stuff that has been gathering dust in my basement for years.

They are a silly group of girls. We're sure going to miss spending time with them!!

Thank-you

2010-10-09T20:04:00.000-07:00

My heart is sad. We move in less than a week and while great things await us on the other coast I can't help but mourn a bit over everything (and everyone) we leave behind. Dear friends, free museums, flowering dog woods, a lovely church congregation, and Offsprings school are only a small example of things that keep me continually near the brink of tears when I think about leaving. It's hard to say goodbye.

Last weekend I had the opportunity to listen to my church's general conference broadcast from Salt Lake City. One talk that stood out to me was from our Prophet, Thomas S. Monson. In it he spoke of gratitude. He counseled us to remember our Heavenly Father and give thanks to him. He said, "to express gratitude is gracious and honorable, to enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live with gratitude is to touch heaven."

Listening to his words gave peace to my heart.

My heart is sad, but it is full of gratitude. I am grateful to a loving Heavenly Father who has placed people in my life that have touched me and changed me for the better. I am grateful for the experiences I've had while living on the East Coast. To my dear Arlington friends who read this blog; I love you and will miss you! (Come visit!)

boy this blog has a serious tone. I mostly promise this will be my last "farewell" blog.

distracted is my middle name

2010-09-28T08:40:00.000-07:00

T- 3 weeks until move day. I have about a bazillion things to do between now and then but can't seem to get any of them done. I'm finally over pouting about the move. I love Arlington and Washington D.C. and will miss our friends here, tremendously. But, I'm excited to move-on, to be close to family, to settle down a bit and not have to shovel snow. It's a bit overwhelming to think what will (or at least needs to) happen over the next 45 days.

In the next month we will:

-have a pen-pal party for Olivia

-go to lunch with as many friends as I possibly can!

-spend a week in the Outer Banks!

-take a Lebanese cooking class

-make my kids get flu shots!

-make lists of things to make lists about

-pack/move/clean (or at least organize people to do it for us)

-drive across the country with 1 husband, 3 kids, and a dog. It is going to be awesome!

-close on a house! (fingers-crossed)

Wish me luck!

don't text and drive or I'll honk at you!

2010-09-07T16:57:00.001-07:00

I am not a confrontational person by nature, especially in a vehicular setting. I find aggressive driving and road rage beneath me and would rather remain safe with my dignity still in tact. I yield generously and let people change their minds when they're stuck in a left turn lane. I go the speed limit, signal, and follow the 3 second rule while driving. In short I'm a courteous driver, most of the time. Today, however, I was not so courteous.

It was more instinct than anything else. I had just picked Offspring up from her first-first day of first grade. With a not insignificant amount of effort I loaded all 3 of my babies up in our mini-van to take Offspring to piano lessons. We were driving down a very busy and very fast highway when a white BMW with DC plates began driving a bit inconsistently. As I was following the flow of traffic I happened to pull up beside her. The woman inside, while going a steady 50 mph, was texting on her blackberry. Something snapped. Without even thinking I gave a little "toot-toot" and gave her the "shoulder-shrug-what-the-heck-are-you-thinking-you-inconsiderate-hussy" look. She looked instantly embarrassed and threw down her phone. And then two seconds later her penitent mood changed and she flipped me off. To which I responded laughing. I don't think I've been flipped off since high school. It's as hilarious now as it was then. And then she sped away (but no-longer texting, I might add).

A couple thoughts on this exchange (and a few questions)--

1- I was surprised I reacted the way I did. I usually just let things slide. I think this time my momma-bear instincts over rode my desire to be polite. I find driving and texting horribly irresponsible and dangerous. It effects me and my safety and the safety of my children. It infuriates me, actually.

2- I'm not as infuriated by driving and talking. It's still not very safe, but at least your eyes are on the road. Also, although I try not to I sometimes talk and drive. So this may be a whole case of that mote/beam thing from the bible. Maybe I shouldn't get mad at people for texting and driving if I still talk and drive? But, I don't think so. Her mote was really big.

3- I didn't want to be rude, although I know it came across that way. I just wanted her to stop texting while driving next to me. I'm pretty sure texting while driving in VA is illegal (i'll ask phil). Is there a more polite (and safe) way to get this point across? I know Oprah is trying but she obviously isn't getting through to everyone.

4- Lest you think I discriminate against white BMW's, I got after Phil the other day for trying to check his blackberry on the cross bronx expressway. It made him cross with me, but I was unapologetically stubborn that I was right and he was wrong to be looking at his phone.

So Internets, what would you have done? How do you feel about the whole texting/talking/driving thing?

On my mind

2010-09-03T17:09:00.001-07:00

-Moving. It's all I think about. OK, not ALL I think about, but it does occupy a good chunk of my thoughts during the day. I'm still mixed. Some days I'm thrilled to get out there. Other days, I want to call the whole thing off. I love our little life here. I will really miss our friends. Who knew one of the bravest things I'd have to do was move home?

-Houses. It kinda goes along with the moving theme, seeing as we need a place to live. We're ready to buy something which is a little scary, intimidating, frustrating, and exciting all scrunched up into one big ball of packing tape. Why can't a perfect house exist in a perfect neighborhood at a perfect price? Oh wait, it did...we put an offer...and lost. Ba DANG!

-New York City. We went back for a short visit to spend time with family in the Bronx and see friends from our old neighborhood (oh yeah, and Phil had to work). It made me incredibly nostalgic and had just a bit of that time-lapse feeling you sometimes get. It felt like I should be walking into my old stinky apartment on 111th but instead I was herding 3 kids into a mini-van. Weird how life sneaks up on you. I wouldn't change a thing...but life just goes by quick. (to state the obvious) Highlights of our trip included riding ponies in the Bronx, Fairway, American Girl Doll Store, finding parking on Riverside Drive, and Chitty-Chitty Bang-Bang (the movie, on repeat play). I'm glad I don't live there anymore, but at the same time-- if we had a chance to move back I'd do it in a New York minute. (assuming we could have a parking space, a large-ish apartment, and private schools)

-Offspring starts her (first) first-grade on Tuesday. Speaking of time warps this is a big one. It's really ridiculous to think she's old enough to be a first grader. But all signs indicate she is. She's toothless for one, she's tall, she reads chapter books (and my email, incidentally), writes cursive, and does multiplication. She has opinions and moods, is extremely helpful, not to mention she just looks like a first grader. (sigh). She can't wait to start and I'm excited for her! I wish this first half of the year didn't have to be as tumultuous as it will be, but she's flexible and adaptable and excited for the new adventures in new schools. (much more so than her mama)

That's about it, for now.

A penny for your thoughts??

"I get by with a little help from my friends..."

2010-08-18T12:45:00.001-07:00

cutest little patient ever!

Last Wednesday we dropped Phil of at Regan National with a hug and a kiss. He was bound for Houston on business and would be back in a few days. It was early. I had planned on making him take a taxi, but the kids woke up earlier than normal with wet noses and coughs so I figured we'd spend an extra 15 minutes with him and take him ourselves. After a round of curbside kisses we stopped on our way home to see a few airplanes take off at Gravely Point. After waving and wishing safe travels to approximately 5 planes we headed for home. My backseat was a cocophany of sniffles and hacks. It was difficult to decipher who's sneeze was whom's.

At home we had breakfast and began our day. Numero dos was slowly getting better but The Third was slowly getting worse. He wasn't quite his self so I called the pediatrician and made an appointment. It was for 2:45. At 1:45 I called my friend who had agreed to watch the older kids for me and told her I was bringing them over early. The Third's normal wheezy breathing had become labored and he needed to be seen immediately. I piled the kids in the car and had enough forethought to prepare a few extra bottles for the baby. It is only a few miles from home, to friends house, to doctors, but it seemed an eternity--especially when I made a wrong turn. At the doctors I made my concern known to the nurses who took him back immediately bypassing all the well visits. She listened to him for about 10 seconds before she grabbed the nearest doctor and chastised me for not taking him to the E.R. The doctor took about 30 seconds before sending us there. We walked through a labrynth of buildings and tunnels that connects the pediatrician's office with the hospital until finally reaching the ER. The nurses were calm and got us back right away. A young, tall doctor who seemed very self-assured and checked his iphone constantly examined The Third. He gave him a nebulizer treatment, some steroids, and a chest x-ray and monitored him for 3 hours. By "monitor" I mean checked on occasionally when I gave him the evil eye.

I'm usually able to keep it together. This is my third time around so I generally don't freak out. But, for some reason they put us in the trauma room. My little not-even-six-month-old baby was hooked up to things that go beep while I looked at cabinets that were labled "cadaver kit". So I admit it, I lost it for a bit. Riddled with guilt for showering instead of taking him in earlier that day. The Third, on the other hand, was a total charmer. Despite his discomfort he was smiling, playing, and being generally pleasant. He was a trooper and sat on my lap through the whole ordeal. After a few hours of being monitored, Dr. Tall-iphone-dude took a break from his shameful nurse flirtations to come check on us again. He said we'd probably have to stay the night and called up to the pediatric floor for them to come get us.

A few minutes later a flock of pediatric residents and interns came to visit us. (all women) They were thorough and attentive and didn't check their iphone once while I was talking. They agreed that they would like our little Third to stay over night, just to be on the safe side. Not that it mattered, but I concurred.

We were rolled up to the second floor in style. Me on the gurney with The Third smiling happily on my lap. We were settled into a private room that was lovely as far as hospital rooms go. Nurses came to check on us, and were thoughtful enough to order up some food for me since I hadn't eaten since breakfast and it was now 7:00pm. As I settled in I started to make the calls. One to Phil, who I'd been keeping updated via email. He was on his way home. One to my friend, who without any hesitation at all kept my kids for the night. And one to my Mom. Because sometimes you just need a Mom.

And there we stayed for 4 days. The big kids bounced around from one generous friends house to the next. (Thank goodness for friends!!!) And, The Third and I parked it in room 223. We played and practiced sitting up (him, not me). We watched HGTV and I dominated my brother in a few games of "Words With Friends" on my iphone. I facebooked, while he napped. He'd get doted upon by nurses and pulmonary therapists and I ate hospital food. Phil relieved me once or twice so I could go shower, and then on Saturday we came home. His breathing was back to mostly normal and we were released. All five of us were happy to be home. The third laughed at his siblings for hours that afternoon between nebulizer treatments.

This was the first time I've had a child admitted to the hospital. It was not fun, but it was fine. Experiences like these make you realize how blessed you really are. We had access to wonderful medical care and kind nurses. I had friends who dropped everything to watch my kids for me. I had a husband who was able to come home and help out (between conference calls). I had a baby who was sick but got better. This is such an incredible blessing.

In the end, the diagnosis given to The Third was quite vague. We still have a series of tests and specialists to see, but I'm confident all will be well.

Moving

2010-08-05T10:59:00.000-07:00

Provo

New York City

Las Vegas

Washington D.C.

This will be our 4th cross-country move in our 8 years of marriage. (this does not include summer moves--if we added those in this would be our 6th) The first was from Utah to Manhattan. The second was Manhattan to Las Vegas. The third was from Las Vegas to Washington D.C. . And, now we are embarking on our latest (but not entirely certain that it will be our last) move back west to California.

We're moving for family. Plain and simple. There is absolutely no other reason to leave.

I love our town (even though it's really a county). I love the schools. I love our church congregation. I love the lebanese restaurant down the street. I love the parks. I love the trees. I love the fireflies and cherry blossoms. I love that Phil bike commutes. I love that I pass Arlington Cemetary, the Pentagon, and the Washington Monument on my 13 minute drive to Costco. I love the bazillion free things to do. I even love the humidity.

But, I love my family more.

So, in October we're saying farewell to our beloved DC and driving (yes, driving) west to the San Francisco Bay Area. We'll pack it up and pack it in--let me begin*--and move to the city by the bay (or suburb there of). My current mood hovers somewhere in between elation and despair. Phil and I are constantly asking ourselves if this was the right decision. I honestly don't know. I do know, that when we started putting offers on houses here in Virginia (back when we thought we'd be Virginians) I had a sinking feeling in my gut-- which I took as an indication to reevaluate our plans. (or else a horribly timed case of indigestion) We're blessed/lucky/fortunate that Phil has several different job opportunities in SF. We're still undecided as to which one he'll take.

The children are thrilled with our impending move. The prospect of seeing both the California, Idaho and Utah family more often, is a dream come true to them. As I prepare the kids for the move we talk about how it will be sad to say goodbye to our friends, but that there are ways to stay in touch. We talk about what kind of house we want to get (one with big trees in the yard), and that Offspring is SO lucky she'll get to start first grade 3 times! (it's complicated). We talk about how we'll get to see NanaPapaAlex more often and swim in their pool. When I see the excitement in their eyes the sting of leaving dulls a little. When I talk to my family on the phone and make much simpler plans for the holidays I feel excitement. And, when I realized that their are significantly less quantities of mosquitos in California I was down right giddy.

Still, we will miss it here. I will miss my friends terribly. One thing I've learned in all my skipping around is that it's always hard to leave (even in places you might not have cared for as much as others *cough-LasVegas-cough*). I've also learned each place has brought with it people and experiences that have bettered my life and the lives of those in my family and taught me something I needed to learn. I never regret moving--eventually. I've also learned that proximity is not a requirement for friendships. Thanks to blogs, email and facebook I'm able to keep in contact with people from all the different stops we've made. And, I've also learned this is a small, small world. Paths collide in the most unlikely of places-- like an airport in Rome, or a new ward.

So-- on we go to our next haphazard adventure. A little sad, a little glad, excited for what the future holds.

* Quote from "Jump Around" from House of Pain-- one of the first CD's I acquired as a pre-teen. I got it from a cereal box offer.

My vegetarian (kinda) lifestyle manifesto

2010-07-27T09:46:00.000-07:00

My green tomatoes of yesteryear. We don't have a garden this year, due to the fact we're moving.

I tried my darndest to put these thoughts in paragraph form but it's just not flowing today. Bullets will have to do.

-First off, I have no intention of being completely meat free. We didn't eat a lot of meat to begin with so this actually isn't to big of a stretch for us.

-My kids don't like meat. I usually had to give them the "just 3 bites" bit before they left the table. So we decided to ditch it all together.

-Phil, our resident carnivore, doesn't eat dinner with us on a regular basis so his objections are moot.

-For the past few weeks I've been a little more picky about when we have meat and what kind of meat it is. (thank you Food Inc.) For example--I've quit buying bulk Costco chicken. Instead, I buy the super expensive organic free-range stuff from TJ's. My food budget has remained the same and maybe even improved a little. We have less poultry on hand but we don't eat it as often so it all works out. The funny thing is, even when I do make it my kids still don't eat it. It could probably be eliminated completely and they wouldn't even notice.

-We eat a lot more fish. My kids like fish. They won't eat chicken but they'll eat salmon, shrimp, and tilapia. Go figure. One of these days I'm going to buy a "monster" (i.e. lobster) for Numero dos. He oogles them every time we're at the store.

-My kids love beans. They are a magical fruit, you know.

-Much of our meal is raw. i.e. fruit, carrots, salad, etc.

- Offspring isn't very adventurous, but Numero dos is. Every once in a while I can find something to entice them both. Like zucchini-potato pancakes (see below). They were a hit. They also love hummus.

-We eat a lot of bread. Carbs are my kids snack of choice which isn't the best thing. We're working on it.

- Having a fantastic asian market nearby with a plethora of fruits and vegetables at rock bottom prices is an amazing blessing. We all know farmers markets are best and I love going when I can...but I usually don't have the time or money to frequent them too often. Plus, they don't carry dragon fruit or okra--usually.

-We still eat dairy. I also finally bit the bullet and switched to organic dairy. It's more expensive...but we eat and waste less of it. Also, our milk goes a lot longer when I don't buy cereal. :)

- It's really easy to be vegetarian in the summer time.

- I'm not a vegetarian.

- I've been trying out some great recipes recently. I've also tried out some really nasty ones as well.

*This Southwestern Quinoa Salad is from one of my favorite food bloggers and is super tasty. It's a classic combination of ingredients. Many of my favorite recipes are just variations of this theme.

*Bell Pepper Salad- I thought it was delicious. Numero dos just picked out and ate the feta.

*Zucchini and potato pancakes. (scroll down) These were a huge hit with the youngin's and super easy to make.

*Grilled Vegetable Sandwiches- I even made my own ciabatta. Are you dazzled?

*This granola is amazing. Super easy, super tasty. We like to sprinkle a couple tablespoons on our fruit and yogurt (Greek) in the mornings. Or on dessert. It works for both. I also cut out most of the sugar in the recipe (because I didn't have any) it still tastes great.

*I'm a bit obsessed with putting flax in everything. Smoothies, pancakes and pizza dough are especially easy. Speaking of pizza dough-- this recipe is the quickest and easiest I've found. I use a whole wheat/ white flour mixture and, like I said, add flax. The kids build their own and will usually eat the veggies on top. *tip- preheat your pizza pan with your oven...your crust will be crispier.

-In conclusion, I believe in moderation in all things. An astounding discovery, I know. :)

Do you have any favorite meatless recipes you'd like to share? I'm always looking for something new.

P.S. This post is in no way intended to be preachy. I just couldn't think of anything else to blog about... and I'm just looking for some more yummy meat-free recipes.

What we're reading...

2010-07-15T20:08:00.000-07:00

In addition to our pool hopping, museum hustling, park frequenting ways this summer, we've also found time to read.

Here's what I'm reading:

A heartbreaking and matter-of-fact look at the heart of the Palestinian/Israeli conflict. The book does a commendable job of joining the historical timeline of events with the personal stories of both Palestinian and Jewish families. I felt it was a fairly even handed account from both a Jewish and Palestinian perspective. It's astonishing, that so much tragedy can occur (and continue to occur) on such a small piece of land.

What Phil's reading:

He'll have to give you a complete review later, but I've been getting updates along the way. I think it's hilarious Phil goes from being completely horrified by what a scoundrel Vanderbilt was, to completely impressed with his ingenuity.

What Offspring is reading:

Did you know that Target has books in their dollar section now? Well, they do. Offspring chose this and has been reading it for the past couple days. She is completely taken with the idea that a person can talk to animals! She has been trying to learn chimp ever since.

What Numero Dos is reading:

Cute, sweet, book that takes less then 5 minutes to read. Perfect for bedtime. Plus, there is nary a back ho to be found in it! Which is a relief for me...who has been reading construction books for the past 6 months.

And in case you are worrying that I am already neglecting The Third, he gets plenty of book time. His favorites are ones with bright colors, or ones that Offspring reads to him, or ones that involve Darth Vader.

So, what have you been reading lately????

a change will do you good...

2010-06-30T17:48:00.001-07:00

I thought it fitting I quote the great Sheryl (with an "S") Crow in my blog title because, if you haven't noticed, I mixed it up around here. It took me approximately 3 years and 6 months to finally do so but I like it. Blogging is so much easier now (design wise) then it was when I first started a half a decade ago. Now topics? Not quite as easy as it used to be. Either I'm loosing brain cells and my writing mojo or I just don't have as much time as I once did. Apparently, having 3 kids keeps one busy. Especially when the #2 spot of the 3 kids is filled by Numero Dos. (stay with me here). This kid is crazy. Crazy AWESOME. But, crazy none the less.

Up until last Friday I've been faking the three kids thing. Offspring was in school 5 days a week 7 hours a day, and Numero dos had preschool on my beloved Tuesday mornings. That left me juggling three kids, but not necessarily simultaneously. But, as we ushered in the start of summer break last Friday I came to realize my fortitude as a caretaker would soon be tested. Three kids all day, all week, and often weekends. So, I did what anyone would do and started to make lists. I made lists of chores for me, chores for the kids, things to do outside, things to do inside, things to eat, places to go, and goals to accomplish. I needed a schedule. Somehow writing things down like this helps me. It's therapeutic, and it means I don't have to remember anything...other then to consult the list.

We're on day 3 of summer vacation and everyone is still alive, and relatively unscathed. As it turns out, Offspring is a really big help. Numero dos is currently in his crazy phase and has me scouring the parenting books for what to do and The Third spends his time laughing at the rest of us from his bumbo seat.

I took the two kids older kids to get hair cuts today at our local barbershop (go to Annie--she's the best!). As we were finishing up and loading everyone into the car a woman who was walking by commented on what a "happy bunch" we were. And, indeed. At that moment we were happy. Two freshly shorn children each carrying their prized dum-dum reward and a mama, carrying her smiley baby. It was 5:00. Now, usually I would rush home and fix dinner, nag kids to clean up or not destroy things and then whisk them off to bed. But today was different. The weather was delightful 78 degrees with nary a drop of humidity so I threw all caution to the wind (as much as a mini-van driving stay at home mother of three can) and went to the park instead. We'd have dinner later, now was a time to celebrate. It was a beautiful day, and I had three beautiful children, and so we went to the park.

...And it wasn't even on my list.

My how they've grown

2010-06-25T10:54:00.000-07:00

First day of Kindergarten

(and garbage day, apparently)

Last day of Kindergarten

(with Numero Dos sporting the one sock look)

This whole kids-growing-up thing is ridiculous.

In other news, Yay for summer!!

Also, I will starting (and most likely not following through) on a new blog series called

"How to entertain your children in 95 degree heat and 95% humidity".

Stay tuned.

First, up--

Camping.

With Dad.

And not Mom.

Because I'm not a masochist.

Keeping up with the Isabellas, Madisons, and Aidans

2010-06-17T19:23:00.001-07:00

Two weeks ago, Offspring came home all aflutter-- spouting off about some mysterious bracelet shaped like animals, trucks, unicorns, and stars that everybody has. She gesticulated wildly, hoping that her over zealous enthusiasm would compensate for her old-fart mother having no clue what she was talking about. It didn't work. I had no idea what she was talking about. Until in a moment of weakness and shame, I watched "Kate Plus 8" (the premier-- I can't help it, it's like a train wreck). And there, on all 12 of their cute little over exploited arms were those bands. "Silly bandz" as I believe they are called. And then suddenly, they were everywhere. The school was crawling with them. The day care at my gym, the grocery store, birthday parties, everywhere. She wasn't kidding when she said everybody had them. And she really wanted some. And this is where I took a parenting time-out by the catch all phrase, "I'll think about it."

And I thought about it.

On the one hand, they are cheap and the kids like to trade them. I don't really care if she wears them as long as she shares and they aren't a distraction. She could earn money for them or earn them one at a time. Every generation has their strange elementary school craze. For Amy March it was limes (like my Little Women reference? it's a favorite), for me it was marbles, pogs and slap bracelets. Why not let Offspring enjoy that rite of passage?

On the other hand, I thought this the perfect time to teach her that she doesn't need to have what everyone else has. The whole "jump off a cliff" thing. It is a silly thing to waste money on, although in all fairness--it does tell you that straight up, the name "Silly Bandz" doesn't really shout out "quality investment". And, what's more, I'll probably be the one to pick them up off the floor. Or Charlie could eat one and choke on it. And probably die. And then who would eat diapers from the garbage?

So, as I promised Offspring I would "I thought about it", and decided to consult my co-parent Phil. When I brought up the subject of the bracelets he said "Oh, yeah. I just ordered some off the internet today." Doh!

So much for co-parenting.

So, elders of the internet---what would you do?

- authors note: upon receiving said "bandz" in the mail, we (Phil and I) decided to give her 3 and have her earn the rest. We also gave instructions to share, not to eat them, and should I find one on the floor it will be confiscated and sold to the highest bidder.

Happy Monday!

2010-06-14T15:25:00.000-07:00

love,

Numero dos

We be pirates, yo.

2010-06-07T11:30:00.000-07:00

Phil and I celebrated our 8th year of wedded bliss in April.

After 8 years of togetherness, gift giving becomes a little redundant. I don't want to give something lame and I don't want to buy things because then I usually just end up having to pick it up off the floor.

As I was fretting my problem (via google chat) to my good friend (and queen of the harpies) C she suggested perhaps a sailing cruise. Brilliant. Five minutes of internet surfing later, I had signed us up for a romantic sunset sail on the potomac. The only catch was it was in June, a good month and a half post anniversary. Phil didn't care. And, June came quickly.

Friday night we set sail. The threatening thunderstorms veered south and left a perfect evening in it's wake. A perfect evening with very little wind, which is kinda a predicament when you're on a sail boat.

We went anyway, and enjoyed a leisurely float down the potomac. We cut through the water at a whopping two knots (roughly 2 mph). Paddling ducks left us in their wake as we zig-zagged (there is a more official term that I cannot recall) our way up "wind". Despite the very slow going it was a lovely evening and made my otherwise crappy day (see post below) awesome.

After our 2.5 hours sail we went to our favorite (well, my favorite) Afghan restaurant in Alexandria. They were having a wedding there in the back room while we dined. It was lively, and colorful and vibrant. We got a small glimpse of the bride in her green and gold traditional dress as she was carried into the reception hall amid the dancing wedding party. It was fantastic. It made me realize how boring mormon weddings really are. But, I'll take a boring mormon wedding with Phil any day of the week.

I think he's great.

Happy 8 year, 1 month and 12 day anniversary Phil!

lack of wind.

D.C.

Handsome husband.

More handsomeness.

Phil raising the main sail. Ahoy!

And it's only four o'clock

2010-06-04T13:01:00.000-07:00

Some days are worth recording.

Today....

-I woke up to a myteriously stinky house.

turns out my fridge was the culprit. Something spilled and trickled down to the bottom making it hard to see, but easy to ferment and stinkify.

-Charlie the dog ate a substantial amount of dark chocolate from last night's chocolate-making class.

Called the vet. They said to watch him. So far he has no symptoms other then a little extra energy. I attribute his stomach of steel to all the diapers he's eaten.

-Numero dos emptied a bottle of my smelly lotion (good smell) all over himself, the floor and my purse.

At least it helped mask the stinky fridge smell.

- I stabbed myself in the hand while trying to remove an avocado pit.

So far I haven't bled out. I probably should go get stitches, but I'd rather have an open wound for a day then take the boys with me. It should be noted this is the THIRD time this has happened in my lifetime. And while I was tending my wound Charlie stole my avocado.

Phil and I are slated to go sailing on the Potomac tonight but there is a chance of thunderstorms. With my luck I'll be struck by lightening during our romantic sunset cruise.

To be continued....

Recent Tra-vels (pronounced travails)

2010-05-23T06:49:00.000-07:00

On Autopia, a favorite.

Traveling with children is a Sisyphean task. It's like removing your own eyelashes, one at a time, or repeatedly getting kicked in the kidneys. In a word it's torture. Even the cutest and best behaved children have their limits. And my kids' limit was reached at about 3pm in LAX on Saturday afternoon. After a 4 hour delay we finally boarded our Boeing 777 bound for Dulles. Despite my inexplicable fear of flying it was a relief to be airborn and headed eastward. It was a mercifully uneventful flight with the exception of 2 dirty diapers, and stingy snack service--and only once we survived our midnight cab ride of death was I able to sigh and officially call our trip successful.

It was a last minute decision to hop out to CA. We went to visit family and Disneyland. Both of which were delightful. My hometown was as charming as ever, and Nana maintains her superstar status with my children. Numero dos terrorized his little cousin, while The Third was doted upon by his Great Grandma and Aunt. We ate yummy food, watched little league baseball, and made a general mess of my parent's house until it was time to leave. Lucky for us, we scored $9 Jetblue tickets into Long Beach which is close to Disneyland. Once there we walked though a questionable airport into our questionable mini-van rental and on to "The Happiest Place on Earth". It was an exhausting and tantrum inducing 3 days, but we had a great time. I may or may not have permanatly scarred my children by making them ride Star Tours and Haunted Mansion-- only time will tell. We ate too many churros, didn't nap, and waited way to long for Dole Whip but enjoyed our time in the Tiki Room. We saw great friends and bought into the hype (literally) by walking away with a pair of ears and a watch. Offspring defeated Lord Vadar, and my feet defeated me.

The culmination of our trip was that four hour delay I was talking about, and our luggage. Nothing happened to it, we just had a lot. Ridiculous amounts. Astounding amounts. Ridiculously, astounding amounts.

Today I recieved a survey via email from the Magic Kingdom. One of the final questions was "did all your dreams come true during your stay at the Disneyland resorts?" A lofty question, indeed. If, during those three days, all of my student debt disappeared, I lost 30 lbs, and was spontaneously given a pedicure by Minnie Mouse herself, I might have been able to answer yes. Until then, I checked "almost".

I guess I'll just have to be satisfied with the churros.

Sentences.

2010-05-12T13:34:00.001-07:00

The Third, because he's cute.

The other day I saw a dog that looked like a gorilla. I really thought it was a gorilla.

I accidentally weeded Phil's lily's.

Today, on the walk home from school, Offspring's little friend told me her grandma was endangered.

Numero dos is three.

I'm consciously trying to make my kids work more. If the amish can do it, so can I.

I'm writing this blog because I'm procrastinating rolling over my 401k and 403b into an IRA.

We're going to Disneyland next week!

I found a new park today that is awesome. Except it was full of over-protective parents whose kids couldn't handle a little sand box rough-housing. Wimps.

The third is 3 months, which means and three of my kids ages are divisible by 3. I am enjoying the moment.

Get out of my head Coolio!

2010-05-08T20:56:00.000-07:00

dirt

whacking things

cake

presents

(i thought the tootsie roll hanging out of his mouth is a particularly nice touch)

I've had Coolio's* "Sumpin'" rap in my head since 1997 circa. For those of you not familiar with early 90's rap, the gist of the lyrics are as such:

"Ain't no party like a west coast party, cause a west coast party don't stop!"

(The rest of they lyrics are much more vulgar and in retrospect I can't believe they used to play this at church dances....but I digress.)

Imagine, having that same line of a song (and not even a very good one) running through your head intermittently for more than a decade. It's annoying to say the least. But it does beg the question, is there a better party than a west coast party? And does a west coast party ever stop? Well, today I found out the answer. And the answer is YES! There is a better party than a west coast party...it's an EAST COAST party and this one involves toddlers and trucks, yo! And you bet your "grill" it stops! Promptly at one, I might add.

Numero dos' transition to 3 is imminent so in honor of his birth we held his very first friend party. It was truck themed, and held at a park. Thus, making minimal work for myself. No crafts, no games-- just dirt, hotdogs, cake, and whacking things with sticks. Best. party. ever. Yo.

So, take that Coolio!

*for those of you too young (Alex) or too old (GG) to know who Coolio is, he was a rapper in the '90's who is now dead (or is he?). My brother had a slight obsession with him, and would play his devil music in my geo storm on the way to school. We had a base-tube in the back which is probably why the song has been permanently pounded into my brain.

Glow in the Darkness

2010-04-21T16:59:00.000-07:00

Look what some youth from my church did. Apparently True-tube is the new roadshow. Much cooler then when I was in Young Womens.

Pretty awesome, no?

P.S.

2010-04-15T12:34:00.000-07:00

The photo of Offspring as a deranged Easter Bunny has started to get to me. So I'm posting a new photo so when I check my blog I no longer have to look at her homemade bunny mask & ski gloves (although, I was impressed by her creativity). This photo was taken during a recent trip up to Lancaster County and is a little less scary.

New posts coming soon. Maybe.

P.S. I may be addicted to Scrabble on my iphone.

P.P.S. It is probably the reason I don't blog.

P.P.P.S. I broke 400 tonight playing against my phone.

P.P.P.P.S. I only cheated once.

the end.

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T19:42:00.000-07:00

From Offspring.

It Happened at Friday's

2010-03-27T18:35:00.000-07:00

On Friday, we dined at TGI Friday's. Phil, Numero Dos, The Third, my Dad and myself had all just settled down to an ill-fated lunch when IT happened. I felt the tell tale rumble while cradling my newest babe in my arms. I had just ordered the soup and salad (very unremarkable, by the way...although the bread sticks tasted like scones) when my adorable progeny flared his nostrils and bore down with such force that I knew dark deeds were in the works and that we needed to make a trip to the changing station.

I picked up my designer diaper bag (leftover from Numero Dos) and made my way through the restaurant, under the hanging go-cart, around the nailed-to-the-wall Star Wars paraphernalia, and past the over sized light signal until I finally reached the bathroom. The Third and I then began to set up shop. I laid down the changing pad, readied the new clean diaper, pulled out the wipes and began to get to work. I knew something was wrong by the lack of, eh, substance in the diaper. It's only been six weeks since we met, but I know my baby and this, uh, substance (or lack thereof) was not typical. And then it happened. I was blindsided by the sheer force of it all, as the missing substance came en mass with power that can only be described as "volcanic." I'm talking powerful, like really powerful, like 3 feet range powerful, like I had to clean the opposite wall--that's how powerful. Thanks to my motherly instincts, quick thinking and immunity to horribly disgusting things I was able to use the wipes to act as a shield against any further eruptions. However, just when I thought the worst had passed (no pun intended) and had let down my guard for just a second, an aftershock nearly as powerful as the first would again put me back to just playing defense. This little game went on for nearly 2 minutes as I held my guard and wondered "why!?", "why me?!" I was utterly defenseless, completely at the mercy of my darling baby boy and his explosive bowels. Until finally it was over. Two diapers, a pack of wipes, and a completely destroyed outfit later, it was over. I tried not to think too hard about what I was doing as I removed substance from my babies derriere, the changing table, the changing pad, his clothes, the floor, and the unfortunate wall that, although three feet away, was not out of range of the substance. With one hand on The Third and one hand in my bag, I rummaged around for my phone. I made a frantic call with my clean fingers to Phil who was only a few feet away in our booth, blissfully unaware of my predicament and was no doubt enjoying his Jack Daniels Bacon Burger. I told him there was an emergency and he needed to go to Old Navy, stat. Because, in my haste to make it to the mall before noon I forgot to pack an extra change of clothes for the boy.

So that is how I found myself on Friday afternoon. In the large stall of a TGI Friday's, cradling my nearly nude newborn, waiting for Phil to come back with clothes for our baby, trying not to think of substance. Not to mention I was hungry.

It all worked out in the end. Phil came back with a 3-6 month sized jumper (because the boy is that big!) that said "Mommy's Captain Adorable" on it. We cleaned and sanitized ourselves and the bathroom as best we could and believe it or not...finished our lunch. The Third was in particularly good spirits and Numero dos fell asleep mid-french fry. As I cradled my Captain Adorable to the car I couldn't help but laugh and think about how awesome my life was! I'll clean up explosive substance any day of the week if it means I get to snuggle Captain Adorable every day of the week. And I mean that. I just won't ever eat at Friday's again. Or leave the house without an extra change of clothes and a hose, again.

The End.

Enough

2010-03-22T09:45:00.001-07:00

I ran today. Not very far. Not very fast. But I ran.

I've been thinking a lot lately, about bodies, health, and self-image. For as long as I can remember I've struggled with having a positive image of myself--which I think might be the norm for most people. Like most people, I struggled with weight. Like most people, I wish I looked differently. Like most people, I tried to change, and couldn't. Like most people, it made me unhappy. Like most people, I began resenting my body. This has been my thinking for the past 20+ years.

Until now. I've had enough. This ends now.

Actually, I think it ended 3 weeks ago. I can't explain it other than a tender mercy from our Heavenly Father, and 8 years of being married to a wonderful soul who loves me unconditionally. But I've changed.

It happened while showering and getting ready for the day. My post-partum body was still recovering from the exertion of birth, far from tip-top shape. But somewhere between shampooing and conditioning I was overcome with a great sense of appreciation and love for my physical body. I thought of the life time I've spent criticizing every imperfection and was saddened that I could even think a negative thought about it. This body was able to carry and birth three beautiful babies, and then recover. It was able to run 3 marathons. It allows me to take care of my family. What a beautiful thing that is. What right did I have to even think a negative thought about it? Enough.

Since my shower-time revelation I've changed. Where I used to become angry and discouraged about my post-partum shape I am now appreciative of what that my body has and can accomplish. I want to exercise and eat right because it is the right way to take care of myself physically, not just to lose weight. I want to run because it makes me happy, not just to burn calories. I want to set and achieve goals physically because it makes me a better person, mother and wife. This shift is huge for me. I've had enough.

I think of all the time and energy wasted brooding over my imperfections it makes me sad. Think of all the wasted hours of dwelling over too small jeans, or guilt for missing the gym? Imagine, if I was able to take that time and energy that was put to such a negative use and direct it some other way? Like thinking about ways to help others. Or reading to my children. Or cleaning my darn floor?!

So, I've had enough.

No more self trash talking. No more unrealistic ideals. No more comparing. Enough! Enough!

So, at the risk of sounding too much like a Dove commercial, I hear by resolve to love this body. It was given to me for a reason. Obtaining a physical body in this life is a huge part of my religious beliefs and it's high time I start treating it the way it deserves. It is a beautiful, wonderful, thing and I plan on treating and thinking about it as such. It is enough.

I ran today, and I feel great.

Problems I never thought I'd have to solve

2010-03-18T15:50:00.001-07:00

Helping Offspring unstick herself from a tomato cage.

Recognition

2010-03-16T19:21:00.000-07:00

Today was beautiful.

I took The Third with me on a walk to the post office.

On the way there a lovely middle aged woman approached me and peeked in the baby carriage to get a good look at the little guy.

She showered us both with compliments of the usual sort, like "he's beautiful", etc.

We spoke for a few minutes and then as we turned to leave she looked at me

and The Third and said,

"thank you for your contribution".

Which I took to mean as contributing beautiful babies to the world.

I said "you're welcome", and we parted.

It's nice to be recognized for all my hard work.

One month

2010-03-12T13:17:00.000-08:00

I love bathing babies. They smell so good. Snif.

In the past month...

-The Third has grown 4 lbs.

-Phil has been my co-stay-at-home-parent. (guest post coming soon)

-The snow has finally melted.

-Numero dos has hummed Darth Vadar's theme song 24,365 times.

-I've been pooped on 3 times.

-Made up my mind, and then changed it again, and then made up my mind about where to live. (but that might change)

-listened to Offspring read me a chapter book.

-spent way to much time on facebook via my iphone.

-haven't slept for more than 4 hours at a time.

- have only cooked twice.

- went bowling as a family of five. I won.

- cleaned my closet.

- un-potty-trained Numero dos. Sorry Mom, it just wasn't happening.

- cleaned up lots of urine. (see above)

- laughed hysterically at "Modern Family" (have you seen it? you should!)

- have spent most of my time loving being able to hold and snuggle The Third on the couch (with my iphone in reach, of course)

It's been a fast and fantastic 4 weeks. So far, three kids is a breeze. As long as Phil can stay home with me and people keep bringing us dinner I am quite confident I will be the best stay-at-home mother of 3 ever! I realize this is an alternate reality...so I'm relishing it while I can.

In other news, Numero dos and I played Wii Fit today. According to the smug little robot trainer I have a Wii Fit age of 40 and am obese. Ouch. Too bad they don't have an "I just had a baby" button on there that accounts for such things. But, I'm sure that if I follow a strict regiment of virtual hula-hooping and trying to hit soccer balls with my Mii head I'll be svelt in no time.

Have you played Wii Fit before? When it's not insulting you and calling you old it's actually pretty fun, if a bit misleading. Numero dos is quite good at the ski jump.

A Winner, and it's not Canada

2010-03-01T06:04:00.001-08:00

Remember that little contest I had a few weeks ago when I was deathly pregnant? Well, I'm finally getting around to sorting out the guesses and we have a clear winner.

Shout out to Amberly who guessed the correct date and sex of the baby. No one even came close to guessing the correct weight. But really, who could have seen that one coming?

Amberly was my visiting teacher in NYC (do you remember that Amberly?). She is beautiful and smart and has a great blog and website you should check out. She will also be the recipient of a couple boxes of girl scout cookies!! (Courtesy of Offspring and her troop goal)

Thanks for playing! ....until next time.

Oh, Canada!

P.S. To Amberly- facebook me your address and I'll get these to you A.S.A.P.