The Little Things

currently

2012-02-20T09:11:00.003-05:00

time: 9:18 a.m.
location: computer nook
eating: pretzels
drinking: water
thinking about: lauching my website
wondering: when that will actually happen (goal by the end of Feb.)
wanting: to snuggle up by a warm fire and finish reading The Uglies
needing: to turn up the thermostat
creating: a more organized home (ongoing. With many steps backward...)
listening to: the washing machine rattling the house and strawberry shortcake coming from the other room.
wishing: I wasn't missing the boat on this instagram rage! Love these images, Lew! Thanks!

feeling: grateful

what January looked like...

2012-02-18T08:44:00.001-05:00

Brittain loves playing with her "magnagat dolls" she got for Christmas. After she dressed her doll she said, "Mama, look at me! I'm going to church to be a star rocker!" Because that is what we do on Sundays.

What is the fascination with laundry baskets? I think I have a picture of each of my kids playing in one. And the movie was much more exciting on the small screen. Hmmm...

What turning 4 looks like...

2012-02-17T09:41:00.004-05:00

Brittain could not wait to turn 4. "Only two more birthdays and I can go to school!"

Brittain chose chocolate doughnuts over cake. (Thank you, Krispy Kremes!) And she got to spend the whole day with all her siblings who were home sick with the flu (but not too sick for doughnuts.) She watched lots of Strawberry Shortcake, played musical chairs (not a hit), and chutes and ladders (too long). Brittain loved the heart pillow that Avery sewed for her, and has had lots of fun building and decorating her toy cupcakes. Overall, I think it was a success.

I hope this next year and a half goes by more slowly than the last four years have. I love having Brittain home with me. She is fun and absolutely full of life! She bounces everywhere she goes. She is a wonderful sister to Chapel. They play together so well and are constantly hugging on each other.

The other day Brittain informed me they were playing "grandma and the little kid. I'm the kid and Chapel is pretending she's the grandma."

We were playing Conncet 4 and Brittain blocked my win. "Aah, you blocked my plan." I told her. On my next move she sighed and said, "aah, you blocked my planet."

It's been a big year for Brittain so far. She had her tonsils and adenoids removed because they were giving her so many problems. She was super brave and loved riding around in the wagon at the surgery center. While she was doped up she kept picking at the air, trying to catch something. I asked her what she saw and she said ladybugs. So I reached in the air and "caught" one for her. When I opened my hand to show her she looked at me like I was the only crazy one in the room and laughed, "nothing," she said.
She was back to standing on her head before the day was even over. Eventually the fact that she had just had surgery caught up to her and she slowed down a bit.

While she's four, she hopes to play bingo, do school with mom, and eat at McDonald's.

in pictures: love

2012-02-16T15:27:00.002-05:00

The Invisible Wishing Tree

2012-01-04T21:09:00.006-05:00

Today was the first day back at school for the older kids. We had a skiff of snow yesterday giving them an extra long holiday. It was a gift. One last lazy day spent in pajamas, eating pancakes with buttermilk syrup, closer to lunch time than to breakfast!

Fast forward to this morning,over cold cereal in a cold kitchen Mason was fussing that he had to go back to school while I kept wetting his head with cold water trying to slick down the rooster hair that refused to acknowledge that it was indeed a school day. "Maybe Miss. B won't be there today." He said.

At 2:30 I rushed to get out of my pajamas(I was totally in denial) and rushed up the hill to pick the kids up from school. Mason greeted me with a big smile and an even bigger hug. "Mom, I think there must be an invisible wishing tree in our kitchen!" he exclaimed. "This morning I wished Miss B wouldn't be at school today and she wasn't!"

And now, I'm off to the kitchen to wish for some freshly baked cookies, a cleaner house, and a school schedule that doesn't start until, say, 10:30 a.m.

New Year's Goal

2012-01-04T12:54:00.004-05:00

So... I have a goal to post more than 7 times to this ol' blog this year. And look, I updated my header to include the baby (before she even turned two!)
Off to a good start I think.

Christmas cookies. Check!

2011-12-24T11:06:00.009-05:00

The cookies are made...

My kids love to bake goodies. They (argue) negotiate who gets to put in which ingredient. "But you did the sugar last time." "Mom, can I put in the flour?" "It's my turn to mix it first." The list goes on. And on. Until at last we're down to the chocolate chips. Then everyone is more concerned with getting a handful of chocolate than whose turn it is to put them in the bowl.

The last time we made cookies of the chocolate chip variety, I was fumbling through the messy cupboard that is congested with cookbooks, spices, and prescriptions (that are most likely expired), not finding the ingredient I needed, I said, "Oh Kay- rap!!"

That's when Brittain, who is happy to help with any job, piped in, "can I put the Kay- rap in Mama?"

She's funny. We've been laughing about that one for a while now.

Merry Christmas! I hope it is peaceful, bright, and full of love!

(on a side note. What happened to my header?! Oh well. It's slightly outdated as I now have 4 children and new baby is closer to 2 yrs. than 1. Yikes!)

Ahem...

2011-05-25T23:42:00.002-04:00

This blog is giving me an anxiety attack, sitting here in it's neglected state. I'm organizing images. And thoughts. And I hope to share some of them here. Shortly.

How to fold towels

2011-04-05T12:03:00.004-04:00

Mason's take on folding laundry.

More pictures of Chapel. Seriously.

2011-03-28T11:30:00.003-04:00

More pictures of this monkey at destineeblau.com.

Chapel's favorite time of day

2011-03-04T16:11:00.004-05:00

I guess it's fair that every other post (if not more) has pictures of Chapel. Since she's not even in the banner.

This kid melts my heart

2011-03-03T08:05:00.000-05:00

(and also, someone besides Chapel needs some face time on the blog!)

Mason will be starting kindergarten this fall. This is the thought that keeps popping into my mind at odd times throughout the days, sending me into a panic. That's not enough time. Not enough time to teach him, and to play, and to snuggle up with stories on the couch. I'm thankful for the reminders, before he's gone most of the day. I need to spend more time playing.

This boy is obsessed with all things Mario. Grandma and Grandpa gave us a Wii for Christmas. It's a total blast. But... we've had to limit playing days to Friday and Saturday (and special family time) but even when it's turned off he runs and jumps around the house, shouting he got "a big" (mushroom) or star power. He's renamed Brittain "Baby Peach". In the car, every time he sees a flag it means he passed a level. Sometimes he'll take a break and just draw pictures of Mario and Luigi. It's insane. Really.

Soccer starts this week! I'm looking forward to the distraction!

Hope

2011-03-02T21:50:00.004-05:00

When the world says, "give up,"

Hope whispers, "try it one more time."

~Author Unknown

Roll with it

2011-02-18T11:44:00.003-05:00

I am so, so far behind on blogging. For example, my baby is almost 10 months old. I know! I haven't even recorded the story of her birth and here it is almost her one year old birthday. Grandparents and Christmas have come and gone, along with 3 other birthdays. Not to mention funny things people have said and done. Ay yay yay!

I am hopeful that some day I will be able to make more time for the journaling. For now, juggling 4 kids, shooting birth sessions, working on my new website, and working out (6 flippin' days a week) with Ryan have consumed my waking hours. And I'm just going to roll with that. For now.

Speaking of rolls...

look at this little chubber.

Please Help Me!

2011-02-09T14:14:00.003-05:00

I need your vote! Kelli France is giving away one seat in her 6 week online mentoring program. I really, really, really want to win. All you have to do is go to Francephotography.com, scroll down to Destinee Blau and place your vote! And please tell all of your friends. And cousins, and well, everyone you can think of. It would be an incredible business opportunity for me. Thank you!

(A real post coming in the foreseeable future.)

No Words. No time.

2011-01-12T22:02:00.003-05:00

Just this.

(Loved the b&w version too.)

Better than turkey

2010-12-17T23:13:00.004-05:00

Can I still blog about Thanksgiving if I've already jumped ahead to Christmas?

We had such a wonderful Thanksgiving with some of our favorite people from the branch. The food was fab. I can say that because everyone brought something to share. Turkey- slightly dry but nothin' my neighbors amazing cranberry salsa couldn't fix. Ryan made a jalapeno popper dip that was Out of this World!

I splurged on Claussen pickles for the veggie tray. I'm not the only one who appreciated that little detail. We thought it would be funny to give Chapel a taste and watch her reaction. The joke was on us though because she loved that thing! She gnawed it down to nothing.

I just love this next one. This is our grandma away from home.

Wishing you a... Disco Christmas

2010-12-14T00:38:00.005-05:00

Apparently.

I've been wanting colored lights for the tree for a couple of years. This year we splurged. On 4 boxes. (I'm not sure it was enough! Ha!) These little gems weren't quite what I had in mind, but boy are they fun! I've never seen the likes of it. Seriously, I feel like I should put on some bowling shoes or something.

Mason- with his beloved Nutcracker from last Christmas. Chapel didn't feel at all gypped that she didn't get to help with the actual decorating.

I'm so grateful for this time of year, to remember and reflect on the life of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Yesterday church was canceled. Snow day. So we watched this Christmas Devotional with our kids and my uncle James who was visiting. It was a wonderful way to spend the Sabbath. Tonight some close friends came by, caroling and delivering goodies! It definitely feels and looks like Christmas.

I'm in love...

2010-11-20T17:32:00.003-05:00

Spoiled Rotten: Round 2

2010-11-15T07:33:00.000-05:00

So, I'm thinking about renaming this blog to "What is that smell!?" (You only think I'm kidding.)

Yesterday I was cleaning the disaster which was my kitchen. It was still cluttered with Halloween paraphernalia (minus the good candy- that stuff is long gone!) including real pumpkins that we never got around to carving but the kids did enjoy painting. They were still on the counter top claiming most of the space, for no other reason than I had not taken any pictures and it was/is on my to do list. It occurred to me (13 days post Halloween) that the pumpkins could wait for pictures just as easily on the deck. Two were moved successfully. The third? Apparently that was the smell. When I tried to lift it, the bottom just gooped into my hand and ran all over the place. At least now I'm not feeling the pressure to clean out the fridge. It doesn't smell nearly as bad now that the pumpkin has been exiled from the kitchen.

I'd just give up on the pictures but it is the only evidence that Mason and Avery even celebrated Halloween this year. Well, if you don't count the extra squishy around my middle, a direct result of sneaking and eating part of their stash. What? I learned my lesson.

I did manage to throw Chapel's costume on a few days after Halloween to snap some pictures. Brittain thought it looked like fun and was happy to re-ladybug up. The older kids were not interested. Mason was a "little" Darth Vader, just like last year. Avery was a scary vampire. You'll just have to take my word for it.

Looking for an amazing suzuki piano teacher?

2010-11-14T22:00:00.003-05:00

My friend Sara is an incredible pianist and an amazing teacher! She's relocating to Nashville early 2011 and currently accepting new students! You can check out her site here: http://nashvillesuzukipiano.wordpress.com/.

Please help spread the word if you are so inclined!

Thanks!

P.S. I have a post in the works. For some reason I cannot upload any pictures at the moment. So I think I'll sleep on it.

Spoiled Rotten

2010-10-08T21:05:00.004-04:00

I've been noticing a stench around these parts the last few days. Especially first thing in the morning. As the day wears on it would become barely noticeable.

Until today. No, today I ran errands, which involved leaving the house and breathing fresh air. When I returned home I was nearly knocked off my feet by the putrid smell that enveloped me upon opening the front door. WHAM!

I looked around at the mess that surrounded me and decided I had better get to work. First things first, out with the garbage. Dishes washed. Laundry started. Nothing seemed to be helping. (Nine times out of ten the old sniff test leads me to a bag of rotting potatoes in the pantry. No such luck today.) I considered mopping. In fact, I was ready to bring in the hose and just go to town. Except I had kids that needed me for other things.

Eventually Ryan got home from work and I told him I just could not find where the horrid smell was coming from. That is when he confessed.

"I poured milk in the planters. For nourishment. You know?"

Oh, of course! (Are you Crazy?!!)

I promptly moved the plants outside. Problem solved.

And to think, I almost mopped my floors.

Ten

2010-10-05T08:46:00.010-04:00

1. My baby is growing way too fast. These pictures are from several weeks ago. She's only gotten bigger. She now wears that dress as a shirt. (Thanks to my wonderful sis-in-laws who keep her so well dressed!)

2. I wish she could stay little for longer. She's learning and growing. I love to see her excitement and determination, but my arms ache at the thought of being empty. I know that's down the road a bit. Right? But life really does move so quickly.

3. Brittain, in her own words, is "so glad to have me". She has more personality crammed into her petite little body than you would imagine possible. I am so glad to have her too!

4.I'm thinking about printing this one on canvas. It is so Brittain:

5. Mason started soccer. He loves it! So I am an official soccer Mom. And I love it too! (Loved this post!)Also, I'm co-coaching his team and it is such a blast.

6.

7. Avery is not loving second grade. "Eh, it's fine." Recess has been nearly non-existent, filled instead with laps around the track until her class can learn to be quiet while the teacher is talking. Plus, her table hasn't earned Popsicles one. single. time. Life is rough.

8. She really enjoyed doing her North Carolina Geography project though:

9. I took the kids to the Health Adventure last week. The first exhibit had a chair of the spinning variety. When you pull your arms and legs in it spins faster, then extend them to slow down. I knew better. I should have known better. But Avery looked like she was having so much fun and she gets motion sick too. So I tried it. I was so SICK! Literally. Me and all four of the babes made a mad dash for the restrooms and crammed inside. I felt a little better afterwards, enough so that I could drag myself from one exhibit to the next and fall promptly into a non-spinning chair. It was super lame. And then Brittain had an accident. Of the poo variety. In her big girl underwear. Not good for an already weak stomach. Somehow we managed to clean that mess up and stayed 'til closing time. Some days are like that. No pictures for this one. You're welcome.

10. And some days are like this:
Whispers and giggles while little surprises are thought up and carried out. Melt my heart.

Portrait giveaway

2010-09-23T08:05:00.002-04:00

Need updated portraits for holiday cards and gifts? I'm doing a giveaway at destineeblau.com. Go check it out!

The Orchard: Picture overload. And a link for more pictures!

2010-09-22T17:11:00.006-04:00

Skytop Apple Orchard:

I adore this one. Even with all of Mason's seriousness. The light was beautiful. I could have shot there all day. Except that we actually wanted to pick some apples.
No words necessary.

These next two crack me up. Brittain just kept reaching in the bucket handing Dean more apples!

Aaaww...
Sweet.

Van, Mason, and Harrison enjoying the view from our tractor ride.
I could seriously eat this girl up. She is so happy and sweet. I am so grateful for this picture. Usually on our outings she stays in the stroller. (And all those pictures are kind of running together. )
Contrary to all of Mason's "picture" faces, we had a really great time!
I posted a few more of my favorites at destineeblau.com

Are you local? Come support Brother Wolf

2010-09-08T20:31:00.005-04:00

There is an awesome event coming up this Friday, Sept. 10th. It's the Asheville Mommies 2nd birthday party. There will be yummy (free) food for the whole family and goody bags with lots of great prizes.

They are also holding a fund raiser for Brother Wolf, a local animal shelter. Raffle tickets are $1 each or $5 for 6 tickets. Bring a donation for Brother Wolf and receive a free raffle ticket for the drawing. They are in need of:

Wet and dry dog food,
Cat litter (clumping)
Cat dry food
Kongs & Dog toys
Bleach
Paper towels
Laundry detergent
Big black garbage bags
Reams of white paper
Office Supplies (pens, staples, etc)
File folders

There are over $1000 worth of prizes that have been donated for this great cause, including a free mini session with Destinee Blau Photography. Come out and meet some local mama's, enjoy some great food, and hopefully win a prize!

If you're local and interested in coming email me at destineeg at hotmail dot com and I'll get the information (time and place) to you! Should be lots of fun!

A Mason Post

2010-09-08T20:13:00.003-04:00

Back before the dog days of summer were gone, Avery, Mason, and I were reading books on the deck. The kids were taking turns answering questions. The rhyming page was a piece of cake. So was the counting. Then we came to the "opposites" page, illustrated of course. Avery was first. I said up. She said down. Next came hot and cold. I said hot. Pause. "Mason, your turn." Nothing. Pointing this time, to the picture of fire, I said hot. "Ice cream," he hollered, proud as punch. It was in fact a picture of an ice cream cone. E for effort. Guess we'll be working on opposites next.

Hard at work, practicing letters.

We were strolling downtown one day near Pritchard Park. There was a sign that read,"Please do not feed the birds. It will cause a rodent infestation." That very day I saw squirrels dipping in to the bird feeder on our deck for the first time. Squirrels kind of trip me out. Mason had a great solution. "Let's make a stop sign for the squirrels!" Awesome. If they can read the sign maybe they can help Mason learn his opposites too!

Mason had a birthday. (See how super excited he is that he got a granola bar for his birthday?!) He's four. He can do all kinds of things now. His new talents, according to him, include, but are not limited to:
-swallowing broccoli without plugging his nose
-eating his bread crust
-peeing standing up (he's especially proud of this one. His dad might be too- he was afraid I had created a "sitter")
-jumping on one foot
-skipping

That's a lot to accomplish overnight.That's how it seemed to happen. I'm learning that's the way it is with kids.

Today was Mason's 4 year checkup. I had to fill out a questionnaire to track his skills. One section had questions for him and I had to write down his response. The first question read, "What do you do when you are hungry?" Then it listed appropriate answers, have a snack, eat something... Mason's response, "Say a prayer." So cute. Question number two, "What do you do if you are tired?" He answered with, "Read a story." He has the routine down.

Is this "summer" or what? This picture cracks me up every time I see it.

Mason- with your freckled nose and sparkling eyes, just when I think it's impossible to love you anymore you prove me wrong again and again. I'm so glad you're my boy!

Giveaway at Savvy Photographer

2010-09-08T15:46:00.002-04:00

Awesome giveaway at Savvy Photographer from the incredible Jamie Schultz. I'm crossing my fingers that I'm the lucky winner. But help spread the word and maybe it will be you!

Missing

2010-08-29T16:37:00.006-04:00

Nostalgic. That is how I feel today.

I miss our family.

And Chapel is growing way too quickly. I miss her baby-ness.

She loves to play with her feet.

And roll over.

She smiles the second anyone pays her any attention. She laughs and it's adorable.

Now, if only there were some grandparents close enough to kiss her cheeks and squish on her thighs until she squeals.

This is random but I LOVE this song. And it is adding to the melancholy. (Thanks for introducing it, Lew!)

And then things went south...

2010-08-27T08:33:00.001-04:00

My Grandpa used to say, "the only difference between a good haircut and a bad haircut was two weeks." Boy, I wish that was the truth. You can see my matronly teacher hair-do here. It was a big improvement from the lifeless mop that adourned my head prior to this cut but it wasn't quite what I was looking for. Enter haircut #2. (You can read about haircut #1 here.)

I decided on a fun/funky little salon in downtown Asheville when I just couldn't handle my hair for one more minute. My stylist was a cute young girl with a darling hat on. (Maybe not a good sign.) But she wore it well. Her shirt was see through. I don't know that that is relevant to this post, but there you have it. She was very quiet. Fine by me. (Especially while having my hair washed.)

Now for some pictures that crack me up. Apparently self portraits is not my forte.

So Avery humored me: (I cannot believe I'm actually posting this one.Bleh.)

I did not want to go short and not love it. And I did not love it. Enter haircut #3. Back to above mentioned salon. Same girl. No hat this time. I liked the hat. Shirt- not transparent. That was better.

"I just need a little something. Still." I said.

I'm thinking when I tried to explain what I didn't like about the cut something got lost in translation...

And what she heard was, "please-just take a big chunk out. Right there. I won't be needing that."

And see, if I hold my head just so and tilt my chin down just a bit, you can hardly notice it. Right? Just nod.

Nothing like a bad haircut to bring out the vanity.

And also, I bought a hat!

Chapel's Blessing Day

2010-08-26T08:32:00.005-04:00

I love this first picture!

We were so grateful to have Grandma and Grandpa here with us for Chapel's blessing.

And one of the whole family.

It was a wonderful day and her Daddy gave her a beautiful blessing. Chapel is such a wonderful presence in our home. She is such a content, good-natured baby. She smiles easily and loves to snuggle. I'm so grateful for her!

And a side note: Remind me not to wear that dress for pictures again. This is our most current/only family picture. For that reason I love it. But, we really need to have some family portraits taken. Here I am sporting my teacher hair-do. I like it short. And I like the idea of it. But something was lacking...
To be continued.

Grandparents are the best: Blau version

2010-08-25T10:25:00.009-04:00

We had such a great time with Grandma and Grandpa Blau when they came to visit in June. We spent time at Lake Powahatan:hiking, swimming, fishing, eating. It was fabulous. There was a major thunderstorm and we got caught in the rain but had a great time anyway!

We went to Hot Springs, NC and spent time:hiking, swimming, fishing, and eating. Do you see a theme here? On our way back from the river up to the picnic site rain started to drizzle. Then it started to drop. "Oh, it'll blow over" Ryan assured me as we unloaded our picnic for the second time. Before it "blew over", we huddled under grandpa's raincoats beneath a tree for shelter while the drops turned to buckets of rain. And then, in what can only be described as a torrential down-pour, flash flood sort of storm, we made a mad dash to the cars. Everyone was dripping! We passed the grilled chicken from one car window to the next, along with a bag of chips. And not to worry, we got home safe,sound, and soaking wet. Then we made s'mores in the microwave. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.

Grandpa tinkered around in the yard and installed not one, but two bird feeders. One for the hummingbirds. Grandma helped around the house and did projects with the kids. They helped repair a fence and build a new section of fence. We played lots of games into the wee hours of night/morning. We fit in lots of fun adventures in one short week. Would you believe in one short week we fed Ryan's parents Little Caesar's not once, but twice?! Ever the hostess...

We miss them. We hope they come back soon. We miss swimming, and hiking, and fishing, and eating in the rain.

Hi-ho, hi-ho, it's off to school we go...

2010-08-20T22:25:00.005-04:00

I think the title alone should make me eligible for some kind of blogger of the year award. I typed it and knew immediately it had to go. But it's getting late. And nothing better is coming. Let's face it, things have been slow in these parts. Not the real life parts. The recording of it. So, I'm a little rusty.

New backpack- check
(She's way too old for the princess pack from last year. Princesses are for babies.)
New pants- check
(These ones actually cover her shins and ankles. When did she grow so tall!?)

Three boxes of Kleenexes-check
(Because I miss her terribly. )

Actually, the tissues are for her classroom but I do miss her. We have four days of second grade under our belts. Which, on the bright side, puts us 4 days closer to summer vacation. Right?

Ahem...

2010-08-14T10:18:00.003-04:00

Sorry for the lack of posts. We've been rather...

pre-Occupied.

More of what we've been up to soon!

The amazing Nicole V.

2010-07-14T22:35:00.003-04:00

So, Nicole is an incredible photographer. Among other things. And she's offering her workshop. For FREE!! To one lucky winner. Here's to hoping it's me.

Seriously. This would be life altering. I just know it!

Anyway, check out her amazing talent here.

Becoming

2010-07-14T15:43:00.002-04:00

An unexpected package in a happy-yellow envelope, arrived in the mail. A quick inspection of the label showed that my mother had been thinking of me. I tore into the package and discovered a wall hanging that read “In a world where you can be anything…Be Yourself.” Those words stopped me dead in my tracks and have been resonating in my soul. Be yourself.

It’s a theme that has been on my mind for weeks. I’ve been reading blogs and studying photographers and the advice that each of them seem to share is exactly that- be yourself. Develop your own style. Be true to who you are…

I agree with my whole heart. But then begs the question, and the answer is slower to follow, “who am I? What is my story?”

Sure part of the answer is obvious and putting it to paper is relatively easy, Cliff Notes of sorts. I am a thirty-something wife and mother of four. I go to church, pay the bills, and eat ice cream more than I should. It’s also possible that I’m on the edge (or in the middle of) a midlife crisis. (I may or may not have the haircut to prove that point.) But that is not necessarily a bad thing. It’s given me reason to look inside myself, to question my reflection. “Who am I?” Or maybe more importantly, “who do I want to be?”

I am a photographer. I have the blog site to prove it! It’s missing a crucial element. The “about me” page. Why is that the hardest part to write?

For so long I’ve let fear keep me from dreaming. There’s the fear of failure, of course. There is also fear in success. Could I maintain a balance, follow my dreams of being a photographer and still be a good mom?

I realize the time is going to pass. The children are going to grow. Whether or not I am doing what I love. And at the end of this story I don’t want to flip back through the pages and miss the part about following my dreams. How will I teach my children that they can be anything, how will I teach them to be themselves if I am not?

After my hair appointment (see paragraph 4) I had a few minutes to spare. I ran into one of my favorite little funky shops downtown. A greeting card practically flew off the shelf at me. It read “Life is not about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” And that was exactly the reminder that I needed.

I am the author of my story.

I am a thirty-something wife and mother of four. That inspires me. But I am also a daughter, a sister, a friend, a lover of good books. I am a singer, if only in the shower. I am a writer, perhaps not a gifted one. I love the sound of well-placed adjectives and acoustic guitar.

I am the author of my story. I am a photographer. I’m inspired by the stories of others. Those stories are what I try to capture with my lens. So I will create. Life. Art. Myself.

*Thank you all for your sweet comments. I know there is a time and season for all things, but there's no reason to not be living your dreams every day. Even if it is a smaller scale version of your dream. Know what I mean?

Grandparents are the best: Gallup version

2010-07-13T15:09:00.004-04:00

My parents came out to help after Chapel was born. And boy was it a HUGE help! I think it helped the other kids transition so much better because there was lots of attention to go around. Also, it made the ratio of parents to kids 1:1, and how can you go wrong with that?

Grandma and Grandpa were able to come for two weeks. We didn't get out much, for any number of reasons. New baby. Strep throat for Brittain (and myself). A sinus infection and horrible allergies for Grandma. A deck to build. School to attend. Work- yay!

But we did fit in a few adventures and some game nights to boot! We had a picnic at Lake Powahatan. It was a little chilly but that didn't keep the kids from playing in the water. Then we went downtown one afternoon to see the new fountains and had lunch at the fabulous 12 Bones. (Which was Obama's dining of choice when he was in town! Smart move Obama.) We spent my birthday dinner at Papa's 'n' Beer. Love it! My mom made them sing. I wore a sombrero and the whole bit. Would you believe the waiter smeared my face (and shirt) with fried ice cream? Oh yes he did. There was chocolate and whip cream everywhere.

Grandma Gallup and Chapel-(2 weeks)

Grandpa Gallup and Avery (6)

Brittain (2)

Avery, Mason (3), Brittain, Grandma, Chapel, Grandpa

Grandma and Brittain

We sure miss you grandma and grandpa. Come back soon now that we're up for playing! And thanks so much for all the help with the kids, the house, the meals....

Avery

2010-07-12T22:42:00.002-04:00

Just playing. I desperately need to update this header. (And also the frames on our wall.) This puts me one step closer I think. I posted a few more at destineeblau.com.

Birth Photography

2010-07-09T15:09:00.004-04:00

I am so back-logged. I've been dragging my camera around with us everywhere and shooting like crazy so I'll have lots of pictures to share eventually. In the meantime I just wanted to announce that I am now offering Birth Photography Sessions. I am soooooo excited! It's something I've been wanting to do for quite some time. Anyway, you can read the details at destineeblau.com.

I really, really wish that I had hired a professional photographer to document Chapel's birth. Especially since she is most likely our last. It almost, almost, makes me consider having another. (Just kidding, hon. I think.)

Anyway, I'd love to hear your thoughts. Have you ever considered having the birth of your baby photographed?

I know with my first baby I would never even have entertained the idea. It was just so intimate and personal. And then there is the whole issue of.. ahem, modesty. Yea. I think right about the time I reached 4cm is when all thoughts of modesty flew out the window. Now, four kids later and with the growing trend of birth photography, it makes me want to go back in time and capture those first moments.

Splasheville

2010-07-02T10:11:00.002-04:00

I just wanted to share some pictures of what we've been up to. There's a new shooting fountain area for kids to play in downtown and we LOVE it! We've been at least once a week since it was completed. It's the perfect solution for cooling off on a hot day- 'cause there is no way I'm taking all 4 kids to the swimming pool by myself. (I can't imagine the knots that would create in my stomach.) It's such a fun space, add a picnic and the kids are entertained for hours! Especially when we meet up with friends!

Chapel loved being outside too. And was even awake for some of it.

The Deck that Dad Built

2010-06-30T16:53:00.003-04:00

Almost entirely by himself.

My parents came out for a visit and to help when Chapel was born (9 weeks ago-so I'm a little behind). It was so great to have them come and stay. While they were here we (again, mostly my Dad) demolished our scary old rickety deck and built this awesome new one! We love it! Ryan built the stairs and cut out our kitchen window to put in a sliding door. It's fabulous! Thanks, Dad! You have such a talent!

We've been getting lots of use out of it so far!

Ramblings

2010-06-04T21:48:00.005-04:00

I hate department store elevators. Really, I try to avoid them at all cost. However, having 4 kids, 6 and under, I tend to be pushing a stroller every time I frequent the mall (which is not often). The elevator is always way off the beaten path in some dingy, spooky corner and I feel like I should be carrying mace as I resist the urge to look over my shoulder, again.

I had a hair appointment last night. It was (cringe) on the upper level of a department store. With a stylist I had never been to before. His name was Paul. I had every intention of just getting a trim, cleaning up some layers, and maybe framing my face. It had been months since my hair had seen a pair of scissors. (Truthfully, over a year- and maybe pushing two, so there was a lot of cleaning up to do.) As I sat staring at myself, 5 1/2 weeks postpartum, with disheveled hair that looked and felt more like a mop, I watched as my reflection told Paul's that we were going short. We talked about a few options and I totally put the ball in his court.

(I then drifted off to heaven while I received a shoulder, neck, and scalp massage- included with the cut.)

My nerves assaulted me, and I came hurtling back down to earth as he towel dried my freshly washed hair and I questioned the wisdom of leaving my new "do" to his discretion, someone I'd met only moments before. Just so you have the details, I'd only booked the appointment the night before. That couldn't be a good sign, could it?

I tried to back pedal a bit. Made sure he knew I didn't want anything high maintenance. He promised me it would not be and added that most of the teachers whose hair he cuts went with this style, and "they have to get up at like, 4". Now, no offense, I have some darling teacher friends who are way more stylish than I could ever dream to be. That being said, I can't really imagine walking into a Salon and asking for the "teacher haircut", please? It's like shopping for clothes and asking where you can find the mom jeans. Not really something you go looking for. (Not to say they won't find you. The mom jeans that is.) My palms were sweating.

Then he began talking trekky. You see, I didn't want to feel like I had to rush home so I toted the youngest one with me. Which led to Paul asking her name and when I answered, he responded with, "Oh, like Nurse Chapel." I had no idea what he was referencing. I admitted it. He told me about Nurse Chapel, from Star Trek and that it was his life and he had learned a lot of important lessons from the show. (Did you know that Star Trek is the only show that Martin Luther King, Jr. let his children watch? Me neither.) He then continued to school me in all things Star Trek. All the while I was willing my angel baby to wake up, wailing, so I could excuse myself and run from the parlor before he started in on my head. Lest he mistake my idea of "short" for something like this:

On she slept. And am I ever glad she did. I think I lost 10 lbs. just sitting in Paul's chair as he snipped away. Why, oh, why did I wait so long to cut my hair? I feel like a new woman. Plus, the next time I meet a lover of Star Trek I'll have something to talk about.

And besides that, Paul informed me they were sending all of my discarded hair to the gulf, where someone makes special mats from the hair and they place them in the ocean to help sop up the oil. (I realize as I'm typing this that I should probably do some research to verify that before I just post it to the blog but I don't have that kind of time so I am taking Paul at his word.) Besides, it feels good to think I did something to help out so I'll just leave it at that.

I braved the elevator, survived (and embraced) the haircut, and maybe helped the environment in some small way. A pretty productive day all in all.

Fresh

2010-06-03T13:33:00.000-04:00

I forgot just how good newborns smell. When Chapel arrived I just wanted to breathe her in, ya know? I just could not get enough. I'm going to miss that.

She has now entered the, "Wanna see what I just ate? Here's 37 minutes worth of nursing time down your shirt and over your shoulder, just in case you wondered how much milk I am getting" phase. It's lovely.

[Fresh out of the bath-4 weeks]

Ahhh, but she is lovely. Thank heavens for Baby Magic lotion. It's different than the newborn smell. But still yummy. And way better than curdled rotten milk.

And because I can't resist...

Strawberry Fields Forever

2010-05-31T13:35:00.006-04:00

Last weekend we went to a strawberry farm. It was sweet! If you don't believe me just ask Brittain. She was eating them as fast as she could. And not very discreetly, if you ask me. Her face, not to mention her new shirt and shorts, were a shade of strawberry-red.

Avery was an expert picker. (She's had lots of practice in our own strawberry patch, spotting the ripe ones and eating them before anyone else has a chance! Better her than the birds though.)

Mason was a great helper too. The farmer warned us that there was mold on some of the strawberries because it had been so wet and if we found any to just drop them in the walk way. So, each strawberry that Mason picked he would hold it up and ask if it had mold. Every. Single. One. And he picked a lot of strawberries.

Chapel was a great sport and slept the entire time. I think she was dreaming of strawberry milk. Just look at that sleeping smile. On a side note,I think this girl is going to have a sense of humor. She is already cooing and starting to smile but she laughs in her sleep all the time. It is so stinkin' cute.

We ended up with 16 quarts of strawberries, not counting the ones Brittain ate on the sly. (We gave the man some extra money for those.) Seriously the best strawberries I've ever had!

Chapel

2010-05-02T11:19:00.003-04:00

Some day I will post Chapel's birth story. Until then, here are a few pictures. We are all in love!

She's a Keeper!

2010-04-27T18:12:00.005-04:00

Just wanted to post a few first glimpses of the newest addition to the Blau Crew. Chapel was born yesterday (April 26th) at 5:06 PM (our only child to venture out while the sun was still in the sky). She was also our largest newborn, weighing in at 7lbs-15oz and stretching out to 19 3/4 inches.

I think she has already won all of our hearts (even an outnumbered and previously skeptical big brother). Both Mom and Baby are doing great. We are excited to have Chapel in our family.

I assure you, there will be many, many photos of this little one to come (mom just got a new camera and this one can't run yet).

Y'all, have a great day

-Proud Papa

Home S-t-r-e-t-c-h: female version

2010-04-23T12:53:00.002-04:00

I've had a few requests for a belly picture. I like to make my readers happy. So, Mom and Julie, here you go. In all my glory:

This was taken Easter Sunday. Yeah, just add a few weeks, a batch of homemade donuts, and a scoop or two of carmel and vanilla ice cream and you can imagine how house-like I'm looking now. At 38 weeks and 5 days. But who's counting? And I guess it's appropriate that I resemble a house. Because that is precisely what I am. A home to this sweet girl who already owns my heart.

My belly button seems considerably lower today than it did last week. I think that's a good sign. And the last loose ends that needed tying up before baby's arrival are coming to a close. I am ready. I only hope she is soon!

And...Done

2010-04-16T21:01:00.005-04:00

So it took a little longer than I had originally planned to get these posted (it has taken a little longer for just about everything with the basement project), but it is done. Here's the proof:

Finished railing

Up the stairs

View from stairs into TV nook. You can also into the "playhouse" under the stairs

Another view

Looking the other direction at closet and door to "phase 2" of the basement remodel.

Looking back to stair well and also a glimpse of the playhouse doorway.

There are a couple of other shots I'd still like to post, but we haven't taken them yet. It may take a little longer. Check back.

-Ryan

The Home S-t-r-e-t-c-h

2010-04-08T21:27:00.005-04:00

This is our family blog - so I decided (with some encouragement) that I should make my annual contribution (Ryan speaking).

I apologize in advance to any of you who were eagerly anticipating one of Destinee's witty, inspiring and endearing posts. Not today folks, not today.

It's been a while since we've posted a status update on the basement progress... so long, in fact, that we have pretty much been able to wrap it up. It's finally done (well, 99.37% done - still have an outlet cover and a couple of speaker connection boxes to hook up). We have taken some photos of the finished room, but I thought it would be more fun to build the anticipation a little more and post a few progress pics from a couple weeks ago first. So here ya go...

Our new closet and framework for the railing along the stair well.

going down

looking back up

a shot of the play room and newly textured ceiling

you can never have too many ceiling texture shots - this one's looking towards the TV nook and other end of the room

So there you have it. We will try to get some photos of the finished room up this weekend so stay tuned (they will be much better -Dest took the finished photos as opposed to my feeble attempts above). Until next year, -Ryan

Now that's the spirit!

2010-03-27T08:06:00.006-04:00

It is spirit week at school. Unfortunately Avery was sick the first half of the week and she missed crazy hat and sports day. She had an awesome idea for crazy hair day, a bun and 8 pony tails. Like an octopus. Pretty clever. In the end though it was apparently not what she envisioned and she refused to leave the house. I had to take out the bun and she wore 10 pony tails instead. Just like every other first grade girl I saw in the drop-off line. Sometimes there is comfort in just fitting in. I get that.

Today was book character day. Avery's pick: Fancy Nancy. I think she totally pulled it off. Getting a picture to prove it was more difficult. Here's Ms. Fancy rather perturbed (that's a fancy word for mad) at the prospect of having her photograph made.

Bonne journée(that's a fancy french word for goodbye)!

ETA: In her defense, I did get one picture of her trying to smile but her eye is wonky. (And she was so worried she'd be late for school.)

Snow, snow go away

2010-03-04T19:24:00.007-05:00

The phone rang at 6 am. In another life, Ryan would have leapt from bed and grabbed the receiver in under a second. Not so much anymore. No reason anyway. It's someone from the school district, again. Last week the caller announced, "due to an uncertain forecast...", then school was canceled and we had a beautiful sunshine-y day. And maybe 24 flakes of snow. When the phone rang Tuesday I just rolled over and put a pillow over my head, but not before I heard her say something about no school and not having a crystal ball. (I think maybe they are getting some slack.) At least this time it actually snowed. About 6 inches. I'm ready to move further south.

I feel like a shut-in. I can count on one finger the number of times I have actually gotten dressed and left the house this week.

The kids are feeling it too. I know because my ears are starting to hurt from all the whining and arguing.

Would you believe that our television broke. Just this week. You can watch the TV without sound, or you can listen to a dvd without a picture. Go figure.

Thank goodness for pbskids.com.

We have also enjoyed a "tea party" complete with cherry kool-aid, (because being cooped up and on a sugar high is so much more exciting)in our fancy glasses, and saltines topped with peanut butter and toothpicks sticking out the top.

We've made birthday cards and had pretend birthday parties. We've done play dough and painting. We've raced cars, dressed baby dolls(over and over and over), learned "Twinkle, Twinkle" on the keyboard, and "decorated" homemade pizza. We ate leftovers by candlelight and made the best oatmeal chocolate chip cookies ever.

So, it hasn't been all bad. But really, I am ready to get out of dodge. Especially because our house is currently torn to pieces.

Today the sun was shining. That makes me hopeful!

I think tomorrow I'll get dressed. And if nothing else, at least walk up to the mailbox.

Two

2010-02-24T07:48:00.003-05:00

Party time!

A birthday kiss.

And a birthday wish.

Brittain is talking up a storm and has been forever. She is such a sweet girl and is constantly (constantly) saying, "I love you, Mom.", "I love you, Dad." She calls Avery, "Avery Cakes" and Mason, "Mason boy" just like the rest of us. She gives loves all the time while saying, "oh, ohhh..." If anyone is crying she will be the first to try and console. She's often the first to say thanks for dinner.

Brittain can still balance in the air on her daddy's hand and she loves to do it. She's all smiles and loves to perform. Ryan thinks at this rate he might be able to balance Brittain and the new baby at the same time. I think not.

Brittain loves to dance, run, jump (especially on the bed), and she can already do sommersaults. She love, loves to sing. Anything from I am a Child of God or Old McDonald to Lady Gaga.

She entered the "why, Mom?" and "watch, Mom" phase way earlier than her siblings. It's so hard to believe that she's only two. It's so hard to believe that she's already two.

She gave us a run for our money as a baby but she's making up for it every day! I'm so grateful she's a part of our family!

She's changed so much since last year.

(Back) Down Under

2010-02-23T09:19:00.005-05:00

A few more pictures from the basement. Ryan cut the floor to the basement this weekend. (I still need to get a picture of that.)

We have walls! We may just get this finished before baby makes her debut after all!

Down Under

2010-02-11T10:30:00.002-05:00

Update on the basement. We (Ryan)(I've helped some) are making progress. In fact, I need to take some new pictures. We have electricity folks! Thank you Bro.Jones! The family room is now completely drywalled and the first layer of mud has been applied and sanded! Next week this time there should be a gaping hole upstairs where the floor used to be! It's getting there!

I'll have to label things bigger on the next round. Sorry you can't really read it!

Remember when...

2010-02-03T11:11:00.003-05:00

I thought it would be a good idea to check my email while Brittain painted?

(I love watercolors! So much fun. Such a big mess. So quick to clean up!)

Tomorrow. Today.

2010-02-02T09:22:00.000-05:00

Is already off to a much better start.

Looking forward to tomorrow

2010-02-01T21:17:00.003-05:00

Today.
Today, I was in tears before breakfast was even over.
I may have said a curse word when the same bowl of cereal was knocked over for the THIRD time. (Thankfully we eat it dry!)
Lunch was blessedly uneventful.
Dinner brought on more tears. And perhaps some ranting and raving. Then I ate alone in my room. With the door locked.

Some days are just like that. (I'm praying pregnancy hormones are at least partly to blame?!)

I'm really looking forward to tomorrow.
Because I get to start over.
(And also, it's Groundhog's Day!)

Something worth mentioning: it snowed like crazy here again this weekend. 8 inches is huge in these parts. I do not love winter. Not even a little bit. My kids went out to play in the snow on Saturday. Mason from top to bottom:
one hood, one hat
one coat
two shirts
two pairs of gloves
three pairs of pants and some underwear
two pairs of socks
and one shoe for each foot.
He returned red nosed with icy cheeks and was dripping wet, wearing all of the above mentioned attire minus one shoe. Did I mention they were crocs? Poor kid. Avery found it two days later.

Then on round two of enjoying the snow Saturday afternoon, Avery lost a shoe. We have yet to discover that one. I'd give you the lowdown on what she was wearing but thankfully she can get ready by herself. She has been known to layer her underwear in extreme cases of snow. (You would too if your mama wouldn't buy you snow pants!)

Something I'm grateful for today: the sound of my shoes click-clacking across the floor as my youngest tries to maneuver around the house in them.

Christmas- in a word

2010-01-29T10:51:00.002-05:00

Last year the word was sticky. This year was sweet.

We had the missionaries and some friends over for Christmas Eve dinner (yummy chimichangas and guacamole, which I could eat for days!) and games. We played Christmas pictionary. When it was Avery's turn, she drew a picture of a little girl holding a book talking to another girl who had a caption over her head that said "Wow". After several wrong guesses from the crowd Avery explained that the first little girl was telling the second girl about the true meaning of Christmas.

It was a super late night by the time the fun was over. Avery put together a plate for Santa and his reindeer. The note read:
"Dear Santa
I can't believe it is Christmas all ready and How fast it comes and go's. I have a little Poem, well in a minit my mom is busy and my dad is to. We left some treats out hope you and your randeyr... (then I must have finished up with what I was doing because she skipped right back to the poem)
Mary knows and marvels. Joseph's certain too. You can read the rest in the book."

(Then she left a copy of The Friend , a church magazine for children, turned to a poem we had read earlier in the week. Here's the rest of the poem:

Witnesses
by Linda Hoffman Kimball

Mary knows and marvels. Joseph's certain too.
Their baby is the Son of God. The promise has come true.

There are few who know it. Some wise men from afar
Come searching for the Savior by following a star.

Shepherds on the hillside hear angels sing with joy.
They hurry to the manger and kneel before the boy.

Perhaps a dove or donkey, perhaps a cow or lamb
Recognize the Master in the tiny great I Am.

Then Simeon and Anna, so old and very wise,
See the true Redeemer in the little baby's eyes.

The Peacemaker is Jesus! Let Israel's glory shine!
He will bless all nations. Oh, praise the Lord divine!

We are also witnesses of God's great gift to earth.
We know that Jesus is the Christ-
Come celebrate His birth!

You can see why I suggested she just leave The Friend rather than copy the whole thing!)

Finally all the darlings were off to bed. Morning dawned, but not too early. (I'm guessing our midnight bedtimes played a role in that.) Around 8 o'clock we heard some whispering in the living room. We stayed in bed another 20 minutes. Then we figured the kids had been patient long enough. Earlier in the week Ryan had the brilliant idea to let the kids each pick out their own breakfast cereal. They had been anticipating bowls overflowing with Captain Crunch and Lucky Charms for days. They were so excited about the cereal that they actually chose to eat breakfast before opening presents.

After we finished up breakfast we watched this video a handful of times. And talked about Jesus Christ and His birth. Avery and Mason asked to watch it over and over.

We eventually got to the gifts.

Mason got his much hoped for Nutcracker. He was super excited. (He later voiced that he wished it had crackers. One step closer to solving that mystery?) He was equally excited for his new underwear, which looked like Disney/Pixar had thrown up all over it. Santa misjudged his bum and accidentally brought size 6. Which would technically fit his older sister but she refused them. We've since replaced them with the appropriate size. I guess Santa can pull the others back out in a couple of years!

Brittain had a mouth Full of candy and a gift in each hand. She was set. She had considerable help from her siblings opening her remaining gifts as her hands were occupied. Her doggie and stroller were a huge success! (I had to stitch the stroller back together the very next day. Apparently it is more fun to ride in than to push.)

Avery was more excited about what she picked out for me and Mason than she was about opening presents. At least at first. The girl cannot keep a secret though so I had a pretty good idea what was "in the box." For me, silky bath beads. And for Mason, a dinosaur egg that dissolved in the tub to reveal a baby T-Rex. Both big hits!

Ryan got a remote controlled helicopter that actually flies. Flew. For about 20 minutes before it crashed and burned. Sad.

We spent a very relaxing day playing with toys and watching "Up", in which I bawled. Like a baby. The whole dog thing was a little weird but the love story was just so lovely.
It was a wonderful day. Full of gratitude and love.

A picture of the 3 kiddo's in their new pj's from gma and gpa gallup:
Mason's tent from gma/gpa blau was a huge hit with all the kids.

Phew.... done. And it isn't even February yet.

Teamwork is...

2010-01-27T21:49:00.003-05:00

Avery plugging Mason's nose while he attempts to swallow cauliflower.
(that his mean Mom made him eat for dinner.)

Sleep vs. blogging

2010-01-20T20:10:00.003-05:00

Being 26 weeks pregnant I decided there was no time like the present to take my first zumba class. If nothing else, I'd have a good excuse to be huffing and puffing and ending up in a puddle on the floor, right?

Thankfully I kept up for the most part. It was amazing! I had soooo much fun! And baby didn't seem to mind too much.

I have a Christmas post sitting like a duck in the draft box. I have pictures I want to include but they aren't the right size. And lately, sleep trumps blogging. Hopefully I'll hit publish sometime before next Christmas.

Also, we've (mostly Ryan- but I've put in some time) been working on the basement. The drywall is almost finished and we'll be breaking through the floor upstairs soon. I think. (Right now the only way to get to the basement is to go around outside.) Brilliant. It's finally taking shape and I'm getting super excited.

I think I'll just end things here so I don't waste more of your precious time.
Like I said, sleep trumps blogging. And I am turning in for the night. I realize it is only 8:23 p.m. Is that a problem?!

All dressed up

2010-01-08T15:22:00.003-05:00

(maybe I should have said "decked out") and no place to go. (But it's too darn cold anyway!)

Brittain spent the morning in frustration trying to get and keep both backpacks on her back while keeping her too big, mismatched shoes on her baby doll. Here's a moment when all the world was right!

Resolution Smesolution or whatever...

2010-01-04T19:50:00.006-05:00

Another year come and gone. Time for reflection and setting goals.
Being pregnant, I was excited about not having to include any weight loss or diet restrictions this year. And then I went to my midwifery appointment.

I stepped onto the scale. Then stepped off. Wait, what?! And had to step back on the scale to see if I had just misread the numbers. I had not. When I reported the grim results to my midwife she said, and I quote, "Whoa, where did that come from?!"
At the time, I hung my head in embarrassment. Later I thought, "how rude!"

And that was before Christmas. I shudder to think what the last couple of weeks might add to the scales. As I huffed and puffed into bed the other night my dear husband asked me if I was winded from climbing into bed. (He's lucky, I guess, that I didn't roll over on him!)

Anyway, long story short, it turns out I will have to add some kind of exercise routine and healthier eating into my new year's resolutions for 2010 after all. Because really. I can barely breathe. And I'm only over the halfway mark by two weeks.

I'll start tomorrow. For sure. Just as soon as I polish off the chocolate chip oatmeal cookies calling my name in the kitchen.

ETA: Any great exercise routines or recipes for a pregnant lady?

ETA take 2: (Thanks for all the comments.
So, this was for another post but it will save me from writing it. Unless I decide to anyway. Yes, Ryan was released on Sunday! (I feel slightly guilty about the exclamation point at the end of that last sentence.) I'm looking forward to what adventures this new year will bring. When Ryan came to sit with us Sunday after he was released Brittain kept squealing, "Daddy, Daddy" It was really sweet.)

Merry Christmas: part 2

2009-12-23T21:31:00.007-05:00

So I said I was checking out, but a friend just emailed this youtube clip (thanks, Maggi) and I wanted to pass it along.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-23T17:19:00.013-05:00

Just wanted to wish you all a very Merry Christmas! (Maybe I should have retaken these pictures after the "big storm"!)

Also, I probably won't be checking in until sometime after the new year. Not that I've been around much lately anyway. I tell you. When I'm shooting (sessions) I just cannot write. So... I don't.

Hope your holidays are filled with love and laughter! I'm so grateful for this time of year to reflect more fully on the miracle of the Savior's birth and life.

Thanks for the adorable hats, Liz! Check out her amazing work here.

*ETA: I love this idea! It's on my sidebar right now, Christmas Candlelight Devotional, but in case you missed it here is the link. I think we'll do this tomorrow night on Christmas Eve!

A Simple Wish

2009-12-19T10:28:00.005-05:00

My three year old son wants a Nutcracker for Christmas. I have no idea why. He asked for a Nutcracker for his birthday actually but they are a little hard to find. In July! I thought surely he'd forget about it and move on to more, uhh, exciting things, but every time I ask him what he wants his face lights up and he replies, "a Nutcracker. And some candy."
So Santa, if you're reading this...

(I sure hope he's not disappointed. Because really, what can you do with a nutcracker? It's hard to find one these days that actually cracks nuts.)

In other news, we got dumped on yesterday. 11 inches of snow. (It's been 16 years since they've seen that much snow in these parts.) Crazy!
Avery and Mason loved it. Brittain stood in the driveway crying, "scary, scary." And while it's fun for a day or two, it is definitely not something I miss from back home!

Pink

2009-12-09T11:11:00.005-05:00

The color of my ultrasound.

It's a girl baby!

I would never have admitted it before (and I'm sure I would have been excited about a boy too) but I was secretly hoping for another girl. Call me crazy. My girls have been way harder than my boy. (Although his three year old self is giving them a run for their money.) There is just something about baby girls. Maybe it's because I'm an only girl with 3 (totally awesome) brothers.

Mason was a bit disappointed at first to not be getting a brother, but now says he will be "very good friends with the new baby."

Ryan's fear was confirmed and visible in his expression, I might add. (Breathe, honey. Just breathe! You're doing great!) I'm sure in no time this little girl will have him wrapped around her little finger, just like her sisters before. Have I mentioned how easy Mason was?!

Avery can't believe it's another girl but she's fine with the news.

And miss Brittain, while she lovingly pats my belly and says "baby", she really has no idea how life is about to change.

Grandma just knew it would be a girl. (No, we're not naming her Nelly!) No offense.

Now, all we have to do is wait. 20 more weeks to go.

Do you think that is enough time to finish a basement, wean a toddler from her Binky, and possibly begin potty training? Just a few ideas we are contemplating...

I'm feeling lucky!

2009-12-04T08:37:00.002-05:00

Some day I hope to write. In the meantime, check out this fabulous giveaway at Design Dazzle. Super cute maternity clothes from Moody Mamas (sounds about right!) And if you could see what I unearthed in the maternity bin I just brought up from the basement you would understand why I really hope to win!!

Design Dazzle has some really fun stuff so check it out!

I love this book!

2009-11-29T20:26:00.004-05:00

I was just chatting with my sis-in-law, swapping books we like, and I remembered that I wanted to share this book I stumbled across with y'all. It is such a cute story! And I love, love, love the illustrations! (Especially at the beginning. Sample from the web below.)

I'd love to hear what you're reading. We are always on the look out for new reads. Children's books or otherwise! Leave me a comment with your faves!

Six words.

2009-11-18T08:17:00.003-05:00

That are guaranteed to make you Move!

"Mom, there's poop on the floor!"

My stomach is still churning.

The end.

Aware

2009-11-09T07:35:00.004-05:00

Several weeks ago, I was having a day. And feeling very alone. (Not the good kind where you have a few minutes to yourself to read a book or shower or something equally as lovely.) Because I wasn't actually alone, I had three little people who needed my help and attention. There were a million things to do and places to be. I'm sure it is familiar. Most days I handle it. Not always beautifully, but still, we get through.

Not this day. This day I was ready to wave the white flag. And I may have muttered something about "I can't be a single mom anymore." Which is really, really far from the truth and not something my children need to hear me complaining about.

Background: My husband is currently serving as Branch President of our church unit. And while we have been blessed immeasurably, sometimes I just really miss/need him. His schedule is crazy. Full of visits and meetings. Planned or at the drop of a hat. On Sunday he is gone before the kids and I (or the sun, for that matter) are up and only sometimes makes it home for dinner. He works hard and he is tired but he doesn't complain. I'm so grateful he is willing and worthy to do it.

But this particular day I just needed him. And I was feeling a little bit sorry for myself, inside. And my heart was definitely turning a little hard.

The end of the day found me in the foyer of our church building following a Memorial Service (see, and I'm complaining about a bad day?) surrounded by a few other members of our congregation. Out of the blue, one gentleman put his arm around my shoulder and said, "You're doing a good job. You're doing a good job as the branch president's wife. I know you all sacrifice a lot for him to be able to serve." I sort of got a lump in my throat. He continued about what a good man my husband is and told me to never forget that.

Then another friend spoke up and said, "I pray for you every day. Every day. And I pray for your children by name." And it really touched my heart. And suddenly it didn't feel quite as hard as it had earlier in the day. (But I also thought, lady, that may be the only reason we make it some days!)

And then I talked about Sister Jones, she was standing there too, and how grateful I am for her. She has sat with me nearly every Sacrament meeting for over 4.5 years to help me with the kids. And the lump in my throat started to rise and my eyes were filling up with wet because then I remembered.

I remembered that my Heavenly Father is aware of me. He knows this is not easy for our family. He knows my struggles. And He allows me to have them so that I can stretch and grow. And lean on Him. But also, He blesses me with sweet experiences that remind me that I am not alone.

Pay it Forward: the follow up

2009-11-04T07:55:00.002-05:00

Way back in February I got on the "Pay it Forward" (blog style) bandwagon. Original post here.

I love Halloween so when I came across this post, I knew I wanted to make my own. I had no idea how hard it would be to find cute Halloween paper. Or letters that stand up. Once I found the materials it was easy as pie. And fun to do. Here's what I finally came up with:

A plate of pumpkin chocolate chip cookies topped it off. And done.

But seriously, check out this site. So cute! (Thanks for sending me the link, Beckii!)

Happy Fall!

boo!

2009-10-31T21:02:00.004-04:00

May your Halloween be as spooky as what lurks in the depths of my refrigerator.
Mwaahaahaa ha ha...

You can see my little spooks here. (Sorry for linking. The pictures posted better bigger.)

Six. (And some change.)

2009-10-29T21:14:00.003-04:00

The when she turned 6 is not as important as the fact that she did turn 6, right?

Six years (and some months ago) my life changed. Forever. (I stopped sleeping through the night for one thing.) But more than that, my heart grew six sizes that day. And nearly burst through my chest. Before that I never knew what it meant to love someone so unconditionally.

Avery had the most beautiful little baby lips I had ever laid eyes on. I just kept saying how perfect they were. She also had the biggest feet I had ever seen on a newborn babe. Almost like she came with skiis. (Which was appropriate since we lived in Jackson, Wyoming at the time.)

There has not been a dull moment since her arrival. I can't believe she's already in the first grade. She loves to read, draw, and ride her bike without training wheels. She's an amazing big sister and a huge help. She loves to surprise her mom and dad with flowers, pictures, and doing chores without being asked, including mopping the floors. (Ay yay yay.)

One of my favorite things about Avery right now is how she just bursts into song whenever she hears Taylor Swift or Miley Cyrus. Even if we're in the middle of Kohl's. Like the whole world is her stage. I Love It! I hope she will always have that confidence.

"D" is for Doughnuts!

2009-10-21T12:17:00.005-04:00

Last Wednesday was a teacher's workday. Which presented the perfect opportunity to give in to my craving (can you call them cravings if you want them just as badly when you're not pregnant?) for Krispy Kremes. I know all that stuff about, "breakfast is the most important meal of the day" and all that jazz, but really, I can't think of a better way to have started the day. Especially considering how the rest of the day went.
I'm in love with these pictures. And also, looking at them makes me want another donut. (Doughnut?)

When can we do it again?!

Beautiful noise

2009-10-15T20:58:00.002-04:00

12 weeks.

I heard baby's heartbeat today. I love that sound.

I feel so very blessed.

I never said I was a fast learner

2009-10-12T08:37:00.001-04:00

Note to self:

Do not send 3 yr. old child to room for time out.

If you must, please check the premises for any scissors, child variety included, that may be stashed in the vicinity.

Failure to do so may result in altered jeans (aka holes in the knees.) As you may remember from the two previous incidents.

Thank you for your attention to this (less than minor) detail.

Denied

2009-10-09T08:52:00.002-04:00

You know that lady, the one in front of you at the checkout line with about a gazillion items and a price check? And then, finally everything is scanned and accounted for but then her credit card doesn't work?

Card Denied!?

I was that lady yesterday.

And to add insult to injury, I was shopping at the Goodwill.

They do not take Discover (I'm finding that a lot.) So I pull out my check card instead and hand it over. Card Expired. No problem, I have my cell phone I'll call and activate the new card. Problem, cell phone- dead. Turns out you have to call from your home phone anyway. I then proceeded to pull out another check card from another bank account that we rarely use and are on the verge of closing. PIN number invalid.

"Could you just write a check?", the trying-to-be-patient cashier prodded.

A check. Yes. I could write a check. I fumbled through my purse for the checkbook and a pen and began to fill in the amount. The pen ran out of ink.

I borrowed one. Wrote my check. Picked up my bag, my children, and my pride and we left.

On the way home I stopped at another Goodwill. I'm a glutton for punishment and I was on a mission to find some items I needed for a Halloween craft and our first attempt left us empty handed. (Except for the awesome deals we found on Halloween costumes for the girls and some stinkin' cute gymboree shoes that I'm sure Brittain will grow into in the next year or two.)

This time I was prepared. I made my way to the checkout, confidently pulled out the rarely used, saved my tush checkbook and asked to borrow a pen. I included my phone and driver's license number for good measure.

"I'm sorry. The system won't accept your check."

What?!!!!

"It's probably just an error with our system but it won't process your check at this time..." she said, an apology in her eyes.

By now I was panicking because that is our main account. And I knew with a surety there was plenty in the account to make my Goodwill purchase. My mind ran wild. I knew someone had hacked our account and taken all the funds.

The cashier put everything in a bag to hold for me while I went to get some cash. Luckily the bank, with the account we are about to close was in the same parking lot. I went through the ATM and was able to enter the correct PIN.

Armed with $20 cash I returned to Goodwill. Made my purchase. I still don't have the item we went in for. Candlestick holders if you must know.

I came home, checked the account online. Everything looked right. Yes, it probably was your system, thank you very much. Then I activated my new card (the one that I received probably two months ago).

I should be good to go.

But you may not want to get behind me in line. Just in case.

Adieu Binky, Adieu

2009-10-06T14:09:00.007-04:00

Yeah, right.

Day 1 started off like any other typical morning in these parts with Brittain contentedly talking, singing, or hollering around her binky (pacifier). Mostly happy as a clam. Throughout the day she enjoys emptying every cupboard she can reach or climb to. Especially the Tupperware and canned good items. Occasionally she will put things into those same cupboards. A shoe, the now overdue library book, her binky. So I wasn't overly concerned when evening approached and there was no binky to be found. After searching several of her favorite hiding places to no avail and bedtime coming steadily nearer, however, I began to worry. It was Sunday after all so I didn't want to run to the store. Besides only a few weeks had passed since the last time we had to buy replacement binky's. Surely we could unearth one somewhere. But no.

Night 1 I resigned myself to the fact that baby (I use this term loosely as she is 19months old and a seasoned nursery goer) would have to go to sleep without her prized possession. We substituted with an extra doggie to snuggle and the routine went on as normal, a story while we rocked, followed by a couple of songs. Then I tucked her quietly into bed. She did not make a peep. Not one. I made my exit.

A while later I could hear her talking and playing quietly in the crib. Not too shabby I thought. (But I forgot to knock on wood.) And right after that little pat on the back is when the noises went from quiet/happy to loud/angry. And that continued. Until after 10. And because she is not an only child I, against my better judgement, got her out of bed. She finally passed out sometime after midnight. Only to be awakened again when the phone rang at 3:30 am. She then woke up every hour or so after that and in the saddest cry you've ever heard asked for "Binky?"

Day 2 I headed straight for the binky aisle at Walmart. Call me weak. I bought a two-pack that we ripped open right away and another one I stashed for a rainy day. We are not ready to give up the binky. Although she'll only get it for naps and bedtime (and "maybe when I'm on an important phone call and she's whining"- that was Avery's idea). I decided we should ease into it rather than go cold turkey.

Any tips you can share for weaning of a pacifier? For once I'm ready.

With Mason we cut off the tips and that helped. He even threw them away himself. Of course, with him, I was ready.

3 and counting (part II)

2009-10-04T15:38:00.007-04:00

Not too long ago I wrote this post titled 3 and counting..., wherein a few of my readers thought I was announcing another baby but instead it was a celebration of 3 yr. old's birthday. Those readers may have been on to something but my suspicions had not yet been confirmed. And while I was playing on words with little proof I was totally hoping it was true. Which may be crazy- some days I can barely handle the 3 kids we've already been blessed with.

Never the less,(wow, where did that come from?) after weeks of being sick as a dog (that expression always kills me) and jumbling through extreme, exaggerated (more than normal) tiredness it has been confirmed. Baby #4 is on the way. I'm super excited. The kids are too but I think that's mostly because that means Grandma(s) will come to visit (we hope!) Ryan is acclimating to the idea. I think. Right, hon?
(For clarification, he's acclimating to the idea of another baby, not that the grandmas are coming. He's definitely good with that.)

Baby is not due until the end of April/beginning of May. Which is going to seem like a really, really long time to Mason. And probably to myself by then. In the meantime, I am feeling much better. Hallelujah! And I do not feel guilty, even a little bit, catching a nap with the kiddos every chance I get. (Except for when Ryan comes home for lunch and I'm zonked out on the bed. Again. With dishes and laundry piling up everywhere. But believe me, those things will wait. And Mason only had to go commando once for a couple of hours so that's not too bad, right?)

Back

2009-09-29T09:06:00.004-04:00

to my regularly scheduled life (snotty noses, stinky diapers and lots and lots of love.)

I had an amazing time at the photography workshop I went to. It was so much fun and I learned a lot! (Also, I got to spend some time with my parents not to mention eat Cafe Rio-for lunch and dinner! Awesome!)

However I am glad to be home. Being away does help me to appreciate my family but not as much as coming home does. I was re-immersed into a world of sticky hugs and kisses and I wouldn't have it any other way.

Imposter

2009-09-18T11:29:00.003-04:00

I'm feeling like a business woman sitting at the airport in Greenville with my laptop. And no children. Kind of weird. Kind of nice. (Although truth be told I almost teared up when I said goodbye.)
I'm off to a photography workshop and two nights of uninterrupted, much needed sleep. I'm not sure which I'm more excited for. But then, I don't have to choose.

Good news

2009-09-08T09:59:00.004-04:00

I imagine there is never a good time to have your computer go out on you but right now was just super bad timing on many levels. So, when my computer wouldn't boot I left it alone for the night and prayed it would start the next day. When that didn't happen, I prayed it would start the next day. Nothing. Finally I took it in to get fixed. With the diagnosis being the motherboard I hoped I could pick one up on ebay without breaking the bank, all the while I was still praying, hoping for a miracle, which may sound extreme, I realize there are a lot worse things that could be happening, but I just could not put much money into getting it fixed.

Then one afternoon as I was shopping for motherboards I received an email from Brian (the techie) to stop looking. He'd walked past my computer and decided to try and boot the system himself (someone else had looked at it before). And would you believe it booted up! And instead of buying a new motherboard upwards of $200-$300 he ran some tests and the problem was bad memory instead. Maybe it was misdiagnosed originally. Or maybe it was an answer to my prayers. Either way, to me it was a miracle. One that I am very grateful for.

Are you a Hannah Montana fan?

2009-09-02T21:22:00.004-04:00

We watched Hannah Montana tonight. We just finished up. I realize it's a school night but we don't start homework until next week so it still sorta feels like summer vacation, ya know.

I'll be honest. I've been resisting Hannah Montana. Big time. I was blown away at Christmas last year when perusing the aisles and Avery let out a big "Hannah Montana!" squeal as we passed some mumbo jumbo accessory or another with the star plastered all over it. I didn't know Avery even knew who she was. Slowly, through school and friends Hannah Montana has made her way into my little girl's heart.

So tonight I broke down and rented the movie. (Ryan had meetings and I can't be responsible all the time.) There were some really corny parts. Avery loved it. So did Mason. (I'm not too worried. He loves everything his older sister does.)

Avery wanted to know if Hannah Montana was real. So I was explaining how she's just a character but that Miley Cyrus is real. Of course I had to add,"and isn't she so much prettier just being herself?"

"Mom, that's not what I mean. Does she live here? On earth?"
I assured her it was true. She was giddy. Then later in the movie when "The Climb" came on Avery couldn't contain her excitement, "I've heard this on the radio. She really is real!" It was great.

Several times throughout the movie, chair-couch-floor was abandoned because the temptation to get up and dance was just too much. And I'll be darned if Mason didn't know most of the words as well as Avery. It was so much fun! Even Brittain got in on the moves.

Afterwards everyone was super tired. Not one single fuss was made about it being bed time. Also, Avery really, really, really, really wants a Hannah Montana CD. I told her maybe she could do some extra chores and earn some money to buy one. She's even excited about that.

So I'm thinking, maybe Hannah Montana isn't so bad after all.

The good news or...

2009-09-01T12:49:00.004-04:00

So, the good news is that my hard drive is not messed up. (All files are intact.) That is great news, actually. The bad news is the mother board is no longer functioning. That was short lived. (Like, just over a year. In other words, just over the warranty expiration. Ah, well.) She must have been overworked. I think many of us can relate to that, right?
In the meantime I'm stealing moments on my husband's computer to let you know that the rest of us are alive and well. Which is something considering how this weekend went down...

ETA: so the bad news just got worse. It's almost twice as much to replace the motherboard as the hard drive. And all my files are saved on an external hard drive anyway. Bummer! Any ideas on where to pick up an inexpensive motherboard? (On the bright side, motherboard is a funny word.)

We tried to hide...

2009-08-25T11:26:00.005-04:00

We played hard and ran fast but summer's end found us anyway. Last night we trudged uphill to the elementary school with heavy feet, longing for the freedom of flip flops and days spent at the pool. We met Avery's 1st grade teacher, Mrs. Reilly (yay!), and although we'd been resisting, we couldn't help but get caught up in the excitement and anticipation.

This morning we headed up the same hill. Today there was a skip in our step.

Although we will really miss having Avery around all day I know she is going to have a great year!

3 and counting...

2009-08-19T08:50:00.005-04:00

I'm quickly remembering that age three is not a favorite of mine. So much harder than two. It's the age when naps no longer make a regular appearance whether needed or not. (And believe me, they are needed!) The age where indecision and independence collide.

But it's not all bad. I still get glimpses of my favorite little guy. And he slows down enough for a cuddle now and then.

We celebrated Mason's birthday first with the Blau side and the next week at my parents. My grandparents came over as well so I told Mason to tell them how old he was. "I'm four," he answered confidently. I reminded him he was actually only three. "We just had your birthday, remember you turned three?"

His response, "But, I've already been that." He figured he turned 3 the week before, it only made sense that now, since he was celebrating again, he must be 4.

I can't imagine my life without you in it, Mason. One of your favorite things to do is make people laugh and you are very successful at that. You are a such a sweet brother. I love you like crazy little man!

Quick story:

For months Mason would say his prayers and pray for Jesus to come to our house. One day we'd pulled into the church parking lot and I was talking to him about which friends he might see in nursery... Van, Jared, Lily. He interrupted, "And Jesus." The conversation took a turn when he said, "Look, see his car!" I looked to where he was pointing and saw Brother Jevne, with his brown hair falling below his ears, step out of his car. It was so sweet and funny at the same time.

Thief! Theif!

2009-08-12T19:07:00.004-04:00

I'd love to know what the gentleman on my front porch thought when he couldn't help but over hear the following conversation, in part because it was loud and also because the front door was left wide open:

6 yr. old at the top of her lungs: "Mom just stole all of my money!"
Mom: "I did not steal your money. And stop yelling."
6 yr. old (again at the top of her lungs): I'm not yelling!
3 yr. old to 6 yr. old- wanting to get in his two cents worth: "You're yelling. Not Mom."
6 yr. old: "Well, she stole my money!"
Innocent man on the porch just trying to drop off a package: "Uh. Mrs. Blau?"

Classy.

The part he missed was when 6yr. old got some birthday money from gma and gpa but didn't have it with her at the store where she found the goggle/snorkel kit that she just had to have and had been dreaming about all summer. I explained that we could get it but that she would have to pay me back with her bday money. She shook with excitement and promised she would. Apparently it was easier said than done.

Home Sweet Home

2009-08-10T14:50:00.002-04:00

We made it home after a two week trip back west to spend time with family! I cannot believe all that we crammed into a two week period. It was so much fun!!! Posts and pictures coming soon!
But, today is Avery's bday so it will have to wait... we have some partying to do!

Cherries

2009-07-21T16:38:00.003-04:00

Earlier this summer I was at the grocery store with the kids. As we roamed through the produce aisles Avery spotted scrumptious looking cherries and asked if we could get some. They were not cheap. I told her no and she settled on some grapes instead. But she was really disappointed. That very same week some good friends from church invited us to go cherry picking with them.
Sometimes our prayers our answered before ever being uttered. In seemingly simple ways.

Crash. Boom. Bang. A 4th of July recap.

2009-07-19T21:09:00.007-04:00

Our 4th of July was not filled with parades, picnics, or fireworks. Instead, Ryan was suffering from kidney stones. Really suffering. I have never seen him in so much pain. It was awful. After many sleepless nights, his and mine, we were plumb tuckered out by the time Saturday rolled in. We did go to the small nature center here. Ryan joined us. I'm not sure he didn't regret that decision but he was a good sport.

Next I had to pick up a few items from the grocery store. An end cap graciously offered pop-its and sparklers. Back at home the children threw pop-its with delight. They even enjoyed the pre-dusk lighting of the sparklers until their tired mother ushered them off to bed before they could say, "but it's not dark yet..."

Writing about how tired I was made me sleepy. So I am skipping ahead a little.

The end.

Cobwebs

2009-07-06T10:11:00.002-04:00

I am cleaning out the cobwebs. In my house. And my brain.

I hope to be back soon!

Splish Splash and a Giveaway

2009-06-22T22:38:00.002-04:00

Here are some pictures of what we've been up to most this summer.

And even if you don't really want to see the pictures head over and find out how you can win a free lifestyle photography session with Destinee Blau Photography. Session will take place in Asheville (or Idaho- see the photo site for more details.)

Get a Job!

2009-06-19T17:30:00.002-04:00

Avery: Mom, how old are you again? Thirty-something?

me: Just 30.

An hour later.

Avery: So, Mom, you're 30?

me: Yeah.

Avery: Oh. When are you going to get a job?

A Graduation Post: Could she be any brighter?

2009-06-17T15:06:00.005-04:00

Just kidding. (My flash batteries were dying so I ended up with some super bright pics when the flash was charged and some really dark ones when it wasn't. Grr...) Moving on, we love Mrs. Langefeld. She is so good at what she does and she made Kindergarten a super fun place to be.

The kindergartner's did a great job on their program. I loved these pictures of Avery. She was so embarrassed to get up on stage! Once the music started though she got into it.

After the songs we went back to Avery's classroom and she read some stories she had written and illustrated. Then Mrs. Langefeld gave each of her students an award.

Mrs. Langefeld was announcing, "this next award goes to someone who is a friend to everyone. No matter what table she is at or what center she is working in, this person just always gets along with whoever she is with." Then several kids started whispering, "Avery. That's Avery." And it was. Avery was awarded "Best Friend to All".

I was down right proud. (On a side note, I'd really like to see Lawrence's artwork because his award was "Best Illustrator" and it must be pretty impressive because for a split second I thought that one was going to Avery.) Where was I... oh yes, proud. I was down right proud. Then Ryan pointed out that she must get that from him. After all, he was "Most Conscientious Boy in room 22" when he was her age.

Kayla, Avery, Mrs. Pfeiffer (we love her too!), and Jackson

Avery and Beatris

Beatris is Avery's best friend from school. She only lives 4 houses up the street, making play dates very convenient!

It amazes me to see all that Avery has learned. I'm blown away that she is already doing math. Story problems even. My favorite part though is listening to her read. So fun! We all loved Kindergarten. Minus the part about having to be somewhere by 7:50 am five days a week. Not going to miss that. But now we are so looking forward to summer vacation! Hopefully week one, which consisted of sick kids and flooding toilets, is not a foreshadowing of things to come.

Beautiful Mess

2009-06-05T20:03:00.004-04:00

Before the mess.

I couldn't pass up the sweet light going on in the front yard. So here is Miss Brittain with all of her messy hair, dirty face, slobber-soaked shirt, I-couldn't-be-cuter self. I still haven't done her 1 yr. old pics (and she's almost 15 months!). It's stressful to be on both sides of the camera on picture day so I keep putting it off, wanting everything to be perfect.

It turns out this is exactly how I want to remember her at this age.

Counting my blessings

2009-06-03T10:38:00.003-04:00

This is one of those times when you say, "Where was her mother?!"

It was Avery's parent teacher conference. Ryan and I both wanted to go so we gathered the flock, two in the double stroller, and one on foot, and headed up the hill to school. Avery and Mason happily built tree houses out of Lego's while Brittain did everything she could to wriggle free from my inhibiting arms. I gave her my keys. My cell phone. Eventually she won and joined her siblings on the floor.

We continued to look over Avery's work and talk with her teacher. After awhile Avery came over and asked where Brittain was. From the corner of my eye I saw that the back door that opens to the kindergarten playground was open a crack. I jumped up and flew out the door. When I saw that the gate to the playground that leads to the parking lot and road was open my heart fell to the floor and stopped beating.

Brittain loves to be outside. I knew immediately if she saw that she could get out she would. I headed first to the street, running and screaming her name. I scanned up and down what is easily one of the busiest streets this part of town. All the while praying for her safety. Avery came out and I hollered for her to check the back playground. She was nowhere to be found.

Then Ryan came out and was heading the opposite direction. I was in a complete panic. After a while Ryan yelled out, "I see her!" He pointed to the main playground. She had made it down 30-ish concrete steps and was standing at the base of the hill, all but hidden from view, in a pile of gravel. Happy as a clam. She didn't even know she was missing!

We both ran to her. Ryan made if first and held her tighter than I've ever seen. I continued praying. This time in thanksgiving. Once Ryan placed Brittain in my arms my heart started to beat again. Race, actually. I'm sure it was just trying to make up for all the beats it had skipped when I couldn't find my baby.

It's crazy how fast things can happen. It is a miracle that she was kept safe and I am so grateful for that.

I love Blue Lily!

2009-06-02T10:25:00.004-04:00

I just learned that Blue Lily Photography is coming to NC. It's a wife and husband team and they do amazing work! They're funny too. I'm hoping to persuade them to come to Asheville. Won't you join me? What's in it for you, you ask? Possibly a free session! Check out their blog and then do your best to help sway their decision!!

Good Day, Mate

2009-06-01T20:47:00.009-04:00

You know it's a good day when...

You put on capri's from last summer and
a) they fit.
b) you find money in the pockets. Of the dollar variety. Three of them!

You see a friend you weren't expecting to see.

You can actually see the couch and the floor at the same time. (In other words, laundry is folded and put away- or wadded in a heap in the dryer- and the toys are picked up.)

All three kids- 1,2,3- take a nap. Unfortunately, not all at the same time. That would be a great day. But still, nice.

You start sneezing like mad from blasted allergies and realize you didn't even have to cross your legs to keep from peeing your pants. The Kegel's are finally paying off!

My kids are usually pretty sweet (a complete stranger approached me just today at Sam's Club to comment on how beautiful my children are, "and so well behaved, too", thankfully she was on her way out and did not see the inevitable tantrum that occurred when I tried to load the littlest one back into the shopping cart!) They love to pick dandelions and make pictures. Avery loves to write. Why just the other day I was braggin' on how sweet her notes are. I am often the recipient of several letters/pictures a day.

But it can't all be sunshine and smiles, right? The other day she was whistling one second and madder than a hot hen the next. At me. With absolutely no provocation on my part. She hand delivers a note with a picture of a little girl and her mama and the words "I love you, Mom", then in dark, angry pencil marks she crossed through the text several times. Ouch. I was going to scan it in but she felt bad later and "scrambled" it up. I did manage to save this gem though...

She is a firecracker. I sent her off to take a nap. This is how I found her later. Tucked in her closet on the floor with Mason's hat over her eyes. It took the sting out a little.

When you can't go home again

2009-05-24T23:35:00.002-04:00

Not so long ago on a beautiful spring morning my husband came in and announced that a squirrel had just been sitting on his shoe up at the mailbox. Now there's something you don't hear every day. He grabbed Mason to go out and recreate the scene. I was skeptical. Once maybe, but twice? I stayed inside.

Imagine my surprise when moments later I look out the front window and Ryan is walking down the driveway with Mason in one arm and a squirrel firmly attached to his pant leg.

I ventured outside. "It's a baby," my husband informed me, "Do you want a pet squirrel?" Um, no. "I couldn't leave him up by the road. I'm afraid he'd get hit by a car." My husband is very sweet like that. Let me add that Mason was really enjoying all of this. By now the squirrel had inched a little further up Ryan's leg. I headed inside for a camera.

I took a picture or two. Then the sweet thing looked at me with his beady little squirrely eyes, crept down Ryan's leg and onto the lawn. That's when he made his way toward me. And because I'm a nurturing mother and all, I did what I imagine most mothers (tell me I'm not wrong here) would do. I high-tailed it out of there. Screaming. Like a little girl. I jumped two stairs onto the deck and closed the gate as quick as I could. In my defense, that squirrel charged. Full force. I may have misled you with the whole, "he made his way toward me" line. It was much more aggressive than that.

I was freaking out. While he may have been a cute little baby squirrel, a rodent is still a rodent. Right? Then Ryan said things like, "I don't think he has mother" and "he's probably starving." So I went inside to look for sunflower seeds. (I saw a squirrel eating from a sunflower once.) I couldn't find any so I grabbed the next best thing, saltine crackers. I handed one to Ryan and he held it out for the squirrel, who in turn actually jumped off the ground trying to get the cracker. But then he didn't know what to do with it. I went back inside and filled a lid with milk. I'm not completely heartless. And we set it out for the squirrel. Then there was more charging, and running, and screaming.

Not long after that I needed to run some errands. With a baby in each arm I carefully made my way to the van. The squirrel appeared at my feet out of nowhere. I ran to the other side (screaming) and threw Mason in, jumped in myself and slammed the door lest the squirrel hopped in too and we had a National Lampoon's vacation situation on our hands. The only problem now was that I had a few more things to grab from the house. My heart was literally pounding. I gathered my courage and flew inside. Then I made Ryan walk me back to the car. Only because I didn't want to smash the squirrel as I backed out of there. (I wasn't scared or anything.) The squirrel made himself comfortable on my hubby's shoe. That's when I heard laughter. I hadn't noticed my neighbor outside washing his car, witnessing the entire scene. How chivalrous of him. Good to know who you can count on, or not, in dire circumstances.

As I buckled Mason into his seat I could tell he was a little worried. I didn't want to pass my fear onto my son. So I told him he didn't need to be afraid of the squirrel, Mama was just a dork. That little guy looked at me and very endearingly said, "I'm afraid of that squirrel, Mom. I'm a dork too!" Have I ever told you how much I love that boy?

At last we were all squared away, the squirrel was safe and sound at Ryan's feet and I was able to get out of the driveway. It took a long time for me to calm down. And all I thought about as I washed and vacuumed the van, bought groceries, and stopped at the bank was how in the world am I ever going to go home again. Will Ryan have to walk me to and from the car? Will I ever let my children play outside?

It turns out I needn't have worried. That squirrel was never to be seen again. The story goes that the baby squirrel found his mama and they moved into a nice tree at the park two blocks over. (The sad fact is that he most likely starved to death. At least he didn't get hit by a car.)

And just so you know I did not make this up ...

On turning 30

2009-05-14T22:23:00.003-04:00

So, earlier this week I turned thirty. THREE- ZERO! It was a piece of cake. Ha. (Upside down German Chocolate if you want specifics.) I was writing a list about myself of "thirty things you never knew you wanted to know" but it proved to be too much work. I got stuck on #21. And a few before that were a stretch. Instead, I'll just share a few highlights from my nearly a month of celebrating.

-Yes. Nearly a month. My parents came to visit back in April and took me out for a birthday dinner at Papas and Beer! It was fantastic. Then we had Molten Lava cakes and played Settlers of Zarahemla late into the night.

-That got the ball rolling. Avery and/or Mason made me a birthday card nearly everyday from April 18th until my actual birthday, May 11th, 24 days later. That's a lot of cards folks. At church, Mason scribbled me a note then read it to me, "this is for your birthday, Happy Birthday. Mom I love you." Aaww.

My favorite one from Avery was in the form of a poem:
Desdnee
I thot you wode like this pooeem so lisin to it klooslee (closely) and see what you can find.

run run as fast as you can
you can't catch me I am the birthday girl
I like your giggle
I like your smile
you are lokee (lucky) to be 30
30 30 30 lokee pants 30 30 30
I love you

At 30, you probably could catch me, but I really love that poem! She also sketched a cute little birthday gingerbread girl, party hat and all.

-I took a road trip with a rad girlfriend for the day. It made for some good memories. Even if I did get car sick several times and my friend was attacked by a woolly spider.

-Then I went to Time Out For Women (the fact that it was scheduled the weekend before my birthday was just icing on the cake!!) It was the perfect excuse to leave my children, whom I love dearly, and my husband, whom I also love dearly to fend for themselves, err, I mean spend quality time alone together. This event really deserves a post of its own but I'm afraid that might not happen. Let me just say it was amazing!! A temple session, great food, Michael McLean (he had me laughing so hard one minute and then sobbing audibly the next. Awesome.), a hotel suite, 5 amazing women that I love, and hearing birds chirp before we finally could not stay awake for a second longer. Followed by more great food and speakers on Saturday.

Back on the home front, Ryan and the kids decked the place out! Avery blew up 24 balloons by herself. (She was quite proud of that accomplishment.) And Ryan finished up with streamers and a homemade disco ball! Suh-weet! Then at long last my birthday arrived. We had a bbq (sorry, I mean cookout) with some friends then we danced the night away to all the hits from 1979. Okay, we didn't actually dance (well, maybe just a little) but Ryan had the tunes playing in the background. It was the perfect ending to a much anticipated (at least by the kiddos) day.
Thanks babe for such a fun night! And a fun post (I can't believe I missed posting the 100th post.) The only disappointment is that ya'll weren't able to feel these pants. Velvet baby! Thanks for all the birthday wishes! Mom, I think the bod in the last post belongs to Madonna.