Ruesch Love

Sleeping Babes

2018-08-23T23:49:00.003-06:00

Ellie, Fitz, and Liam,

I have to admit. I haven't been the kind of mom that I want to be lately. I've been stressed, grouchy, and not patient with your cute little selves. All 3 of you are getting too big too quickly. It kills me. But, since I can't stop it, I need to start enjoying it. You. Each of you. I love you quirks, your messes, your giggles, your idiosyncrasies, your sticky kisses, even your ridiculous potty talk!

Ellie, you are a force to be reckoned with. Most days I can't keep you entertained to save my life! You are always on the go from one activity to the next. You need outing and friends, but lucky for me, a good coloring book and gel pens will suffice as a short-term substitute. I promise to sit with you, to color and cut up magazines. Also, lets read more. Lots more. Your creative mind amazes me.

Fitzy, you've needed lots of extra love and attention lately. You want to snuggle all day long, and watch batman, but you want me right next to you while you do it. I will sit with you longer and snuggle with you before you fall asleep. You deserve it. When you're not cuddling, you're playing cars and super heros, or we're reading about construction tractors. You're such a boy and I love watching you play.

Liam, you're only technically a baby for a few more weeks! How?! You, my love, are keeping me on my toes. You are fast! You're almost standing on your own, but its way faster for your to crawl. You fly up the stairs, straight for the bathroom. I can't even tell you how many times I've caught you with your hands in the toilet water. I hate to tell you this, but your sister isn't good at flushing. You eat more than Ellie and Fitz combined and you eat it everything. Today your dad fed you tomatoes and cheese drizzled with a balsamic glaze. You basically licked your highchair clean. I will be spending more time with you on the floor, taking in your baby details. Your two tiny teeth, your dirty little feet, and your sparkly eyes.

Life is so good with the 3 of you! You are all everything I've ever wanted, plus some. Thank you for reminding me to stop and smell the roses.

I love you no matter what.

2018-06-10T07:12:00.003-06:00

My sweet babies,

Oh, how I love you so. Each of you are perfect, just the way you are, right this very second. Never forget that, please.

Love, Mom

William Roger: A Birth Story

2018-01-25T10:14:00.002-07:00

I think this is the earliest I've ever written a birth story!

Liam, I was so excited for you to get here! With you being my third, I felt like I more or less knew what to expect. I assumed that we would have a bit of a difficult time getting you here, just like your brother and sister. I assumed you would be tiny and perfect and I couldn't wait to hold you on my chest the second you were born. I was most excited for the hospital bubble, spending time relaxing with just you.

But, I want to rewind for a second. Your original due was September 30th and the plan was to induce you on the 26th (daddy's birthday). Your pregnancy was normal and healthy. You measured a little bit small, but after Fitz we weren't super worried. My blood pressure was up and down though and because of that my doctor was on high alert. It had actually lowered for the 3rd trimester, so we didn't think it would be any sort of problem. So, I went in for my weekly appointment on a Thursday and I had high BP, just 2 points higher than it needed to be. When my doc saw this she turned to me and asked if I wanted to have you by Saturday. I was more than ready and agreed because I wanted her to be the one to deliver you. I don't know if my doctor just wanted to deliver you at a convenient time but either way, it was divine intervention, I'm sure of it.

I called your Dad on my way home and he was shocked. I was too excited to care. I was actually scheduled to go in the next night (Friday) to get everything moving, so we had to get everything ready quickly. Friday was the longest day ever. I was called to go in to LDS hosptial at 9 p.m. We loaded up Ellie and Fitz and they admitted me. I was planning on sending your dad home with the kids but at the last minute we decided to have him take Ellie and Fitz to Nana's and Papa's for the night. Good thing he did because I progressed quickly and by 4:30 you were ready to come! I couldn't believe it because it took Ellie and Fitz FOREVER to come, especially Fitz.

You were a bit different from your siblings in that labor wasn't very stressful. My anesthesiologist was amazing and I was sitting pretty for most of it. You kept your heart rate up for the most part but I did have to strap on the good old oxygen mask. I was planning on it though. When my doc got there I was ready to push and you were out in about 5 pushes. You made it to my stomach, but as they cleaned you up they realized that you were having a hard time breathing on your own. So they had to take you over to the table to help you with that. They kept saying that you should be good in just a second, but they had to take you to the NICU because you just couldn't hang. Before they took you the nurses kept saying, "look at all that hair!". I thought they were joking, but they weren't. You came out with the cutest, longest, silkiest blonde hair I've seen on a baby and you still have it at 4 months. It's still untamable and I LOVE IT.

I sent your daddy with you and I was surprised how not worried I was. I think I was mostly in shock, and was for the next 48 hours. After living through it all and looking back, I'm sure it was my coping method because being wheeled to my room without my baby was heartbreaking. I still get a lump in my throat thinking about that. Once I was settled into my room I got extra anxious because I just kept waiting for your daddy to bring you back so we could all be together. He sent me these 2 pictures in the process:

I couldn't even see what you looked like! It was killing me! Eventually, Dad came back, but without you. In my mind, it was just a matter of moments until everything was back to normal, but it was 6 hours until I was even able to go and visit you. Isn't that ridiculous that I had to go and visit my own baby! I hadn't even held you yet, or seen your face for that matter. When I was finally able to hold you it was surreal. You were so tiny and so adorable. Granted, I didn't get to see you without any kind of tubes until you were almost a week old, but I could just tell. I knew how long you had waited to get here and it just wasn't fair that you had to be under so much stress. After the nurse gave us the rundown of what everything was and what was going on I asked when I would be able to take you back to my room. She told me you'd be staying here, until I was discharged, at least. I was shocked and was so sad. What I have learned about the NICU is they don't like to give parents timelines. Which I get, but is the most infuriating thing ever. I do have to put in a plug for our nurses. Nurses are angels that walk this earth, I'm sure of it. You were always under the best care.

So, again, I was sent back to my room, without you. My doc came in to check on me and gave me an ambien so that I could finally get some sleep. The second I woke up though I was back to needing to see you. The second time there, everything hit me much harder. I realized that even after almost a whole day, things had stayed the same and I would be going to bed without my baby. Moms should never have to be in their hospital room without their babies. Never. If we're looking for the positive, I did get almost a full nights sleep your first week of life, which I guess is unheard of. It was such a bitter sweet time. When all of the emotions and fears were stripped away, I knew you were going to be ok. I knew you'd come home with us. I knew how badly you were fighting to be here and I was (and am) so proud of you.

The next week ended up being one of the most trying weeks of my life. But I'll write about that next time. I'm so glad you're here my sweet Liam. You were so anxious to get here. I'm sure I've told you, but you came to visit me a few days after we brought Fitz home from the hospital. I couldn't tell much about you except that you were SO excited to come. I felt like you were telling me that you were ready to come whenever we would have you and that you missed your brother. You came a few other times the year and I really and truly believe that if I hadn't felt you, I wouldn't have been very ready for you to come. Honestly, I think Fitz wasn't very anxious to come here because he didn't want to leave you. I can't wait to watch your relationship with each other grow and develop. You two need each other. So, thank you for coming to visit me before you came sweetheart. It is one of the experiences I hold most dear to my heart and I will never forget it.

I love you William.

Words for my Babies

2017-10-22T17:15:00.001-06:00

Dear Ellie, Fitz, and Liam,

I've been sparsely updating this blog for the past 7-8 years, and while I've been doing it to record our history, I've been writing it mostly with the idea that other people will be reading it, others besides you. That's all well and good, but I'm really hoping if I shift my focus and dedicate this blog to recording you for you, that I will do a much better job at doing it. All of you deserve it. You're each so special.

Ellie Bean: I'm so sorry. I've missed the most of your first 4 years and it makes my heart ache a little everytime I think about it. I'll do better baby girl, I promise. You are so spunky sis. Something I hope you don't remember about your first 4 years is that I didn't get down on the floor and play with you as much as you or I would have liked. Today all you wanted was to play with me. So, we played princess and unicorn. You were the princess and I was your unicorn. We roped your dad and Fitzy into playing with us and you both rode around on our backs and you both giggled and fed us imaginary carrots. It was the best. I promise to get on the floor and play with you every day. You keep me honest and you are truly my dream come true. I didn't think I'd ever get to have a little girl and if you end up being my only one, I'll be deliriously happy with all of the mother/daughter times we have to come.

Fitzy: You're having a bit of a hard time adjusting to being the middle child. Luckily, you're not taking it out on your brother. In fact, you have nothing but kisses and love for him. I think it was a very long 2 years that you boys spent apart and I'm so happy that you're reunited together again. Anyway, you're throwing a few extra tantrums and are a bit more clingy than usual. I hope I never forget how you call me over by saying, "mere! mere!" (come here!). You curl your cute little hand and I have about 10 seconds to follow or else you get ticked. Luckily, you're still my sweet little boy and you'll always hold a special place in my heart. You're such a cuddle bug and you give the best kisses ever.

Liam: You're 5 weeks old and really couldn't be the more perfect baby. You're eating so well. At night you'll go 4-5 hour stretches before you wake again and you only cry when you're hungry. Well, you do just like a good snuggle once in a while too, and it's usually when I'm trying to get all 4 of us ready and out the door in a hurry. It's a good reminder to slow down a bit. Sometimes I get too busy and I tend to put you down when I could be holding you just as easily. I'm trying to do better at that because the moments when I hold you are some of my sweetest. You're beginning to give me the tiniest smiles and whether or not they're gas, I'd like to think they're for me. I'm so excited to watch you play with your brother and sister and what elements you bring to our family sweet babe.

So, my loves, these words are for you, every single one. I hope you enjoy your memories and pictures, but mostly I hope it reminds you how much I love each of you, no matter what. I promise.

Ellie's First Day of Preschool!

2017-09-12T01:07:00.000-06:00

I cannot believe we're already here! This is totally going to be the run of the mill sappy mom post, plus, pregnancy hormones, plus insomnia. Ridiculous.

I remember thinking how far away preschool is, but it's here! It does fly! Why does no one tell you that it really really really does fly?! You're right, they totally do. Granted, this is only her first year, but we're officially on a school schedule and as long as the boys stay on the same schedule, we are tied into a half day schedule for the next 6 years, AT LEAST!

But you know what? She's so ready. She loves learning. She's so social. Mom and Fitz just aren't cutting it anymore, and that's ok. It just doesn't make it any easier. I haven't done any crying, but that whole morning I had a lump in my throat and a knot in my stomach as we were getting her ready. I made sure to get up before her so I could get ready and focus all of my attention on her. I was in the bathroom and I heard her feet hit the floor, a gasp, and then a squeal of PRESCHOOL! She ran right into the bathroom, had her blue dress in hand, and asked for Elsa hair and pink lip gloss. I happily obliged, and loved listening to her chatter about her hopes and expectations.

I do need to rewind for a moment, the night before school, her dad gave her the sweetest father's blessing. He blessed her to be kind and brave. To find good kind friends, to have an enthusiasm for learning and a desire to make good choices. He also blessed her that it wouldn't hurt when mom put in her new earrings because apparently that was the biggest deal of them all. It was perfect and gave her the exact confidence boost that she needed.

Ellie loved having her picture taken with the sign and loved it even more that her backpack was involved. She's been waiting months to use it. And yes, she really does want to be a mermaid when she grows up...as long as Fitz will come with her. After snapping a few pictures, we dragged Fitz out of bed (he's such a good sleeper now!!!) and took her up to the school. She was almost shaking with excitement. We found a hook for her backpack, she took my hand, led me into the classroom, gave me a kiss, and found her friends. She didn't even look back. It's exactly what I had hoped for her. Fitz was actually the only one who did any crying that day. He was yelling for his sissy and for the trucks and none of it was fair at all. He actually kept trying to get back into the car for the whole 2.5 hours she was gone. He would point out the window, say "car" and "sissy". Darn it.

I have to remember her "about me" bag. They sent her home with a white paper bag that she was to decorate and fill with 4 things that describe her. I (mostly) let her take the reigns on this one and we were both very content with what she chose. She put in a ballet shoes because she loves to dance, an avocado, because they're her favorite. She chose her swimsuit because she loves swimming. The best part, and I swear she picked this all on her own, was the family picture that she wanted to include, because she loves being with her family the best. Oh, I hope she always feels that way. I hope we're her happy place.

I held my breath as I walked back in to pick her up. She immediately ran out with the biggest grin and hug. She could only tell me about recess (which she calls sesame for some reason?) and what she ate for snacks. But you know what? That's good enough for me. She loves it and I love that she loves it. I'm sure her spongy little brain is soaking up all the necessary preschool things.

So while I don't think I'm completely ready to let go of her hand, she's ready to let go of mine, and I'm so so happy for her. She's going to have so many amazing experiences and I can only pray that I can create the safest haven at home for her, where I'll be ready and waiting to listen and help.

I'll always be here for you baby girl. I love you so so much.

September: Baby Month!

2017-09-11T00:46:00.003-06:00

Okay, so we're not even halfway through September, but it is baby month and we are SO excited over here! If I'm being totally honest, it depends from day to day my level of excitement. I'm always looking forward to it, but I'm also finding myself being very overwhelmed and scared. I know they're all normal things to feel. I'm trying to soak everything in, feel it all, and then let the bad things go. So far, it's working quite nicely.

As I've said before, Ellie can hardly stand it. I told her baby brother would be here in 2 weeks and she immediately took it as 2 days...which is still basically forever in her almost-4-year-old world. We did a name switcheroo on her a few weeks ago and she said she didn't want anything to do with the baby if we changed his name. Silly girl. She actually stuck to her guns until we had the sweetest bedtime conversation. She was asking about heaven and why she jumped down first. I told her it was because she was first in line and oh so brave. She loved that. And then she looked at me with almost sad eyes and asked if she gave Fitz a hug before she jumped down into my tummy. I got a little teary eyed myself and I told her that I was positive that they gave each other the biggest hug and kiss and promised to be together soon. Then she asked if she hugged the baby as well and called him by his actual name that we will be giving him. It was the sweetest experience and she has been so excited ever since. She also threw in there that she hugged her baby sister that's coming after this baby...we'll see. I love the sweet spirit that children bring into our home. There is nothing like it.

Fitz probably has no idea whats about to hit him, but he has been sweetly playing with Ellie's baby dolls and its enough to make me melt. He has me wrap them up, he rocks them, kisses them, gives them a bottle, and puts them to bed. Then we're met with lots of "sshhhhhh's" for the next 5 minutes. It makes me happy that he's so sweet and does give me a glimmer of hope. He also loves to poke my belly, say "bebe", and then kiss it. I die. Seriously, kids are the best, especially when they're yours. Fitz has been a little slow to talk but this last week he has started stringing 2-3 words together. Most of them have to do with trucks, tractors, or motorcycles, but when he says "love you mama" followed with a kiss, well I wouldn't trade that for the world.

Random pictures, but Ellie and Kendall showed up to church in the same dress, which also happens to be Ellie's favorite, so we had to get a picture of these 2 hooligans. Oh, I love them. And would it be a Chelsea blog post if I didn't include a few sleeping pictures. I guess I'm kind of creepy that way. I just can't resist a still sleeping angel child.

Just a few random pregnancy facts before we wrap this up:

1. I actually packed my bags before my due date. With Ellie I packed my bag on my due date and with Fitz it was the night before I was induced...at 11 p.m. as we were leaving to stay with my mom. How ridiculous am I?! I think it's just some weird mental block, like I don't want my body to think that I'm ready. Silly, I know. But, at 37 weeks, I am packed! Baby boy can stay put for a bit longer, but it does give me a nice peace of mind, which I'm desperately searching for this pregnancy.

2. Before I got pregnant I started attending High Fitness classes. They are so hard for me, but have been the best workout. I didn't keep up with working out during my previous 2 pregnancies and have always regretted it, especially after Fitz. I actually was not able to loose much weight after Fitz at all, so getting pregnant with a bunch of old pregnancy weight was a leap of faith for me. Anyway, I promised myself that even if I had to march in place during the whole class, I would workout and go to High my whole pregnancy. And guess what?! I've totally done it! I'm not even bragging, I'm just very very proud of myself, and I should be! It has not been easy. I was a little hit and miss my first trimester, but really started to dedicate specific dates and times to attending during my second and third trimesters. With the exception of a few weeks, I've made it 3-4 times a week religiously. I'm pretty positive that I would have quit about 3 weeks ago unless I would have made myself this promise because man, the jumping, lunges, and squats are getting difficult, but there's not many better feelings than walking out of that class. It's amazing, I've never had an easier pregnancy and I'm positive that it's because I've stayed active. Fingers crossed for an even easier recovery and delivery than last time. I have so much more confidence in myself and my body, and know that I'll be able to keep it up after I heal from delivery.

3. I am a list person and I have most definitely had a before baby list. And again, I've killed it. I think all I have left to do is hang a few pictures in the baby's room, clean the sink, and sit back on my couch and keep the house clean and the kids alive for the next 2 weeks. Ah, it feels good. I'm finding out I will need to start wearing blinders though because there are always projects and gosh dang it, I deserve to relax.

4. Catching up on blogging has been on my list, so this feels extra good. Yay for journaling. My babies deserve it.

Here's to 37 weeks and being full term. Keep getting chunky for us baby boy!

Summer Shenanigans: August Pt. 2

2017-08-31T00:17:00.000-06:00

We welcomed that amazing solar eclipse on the 21st! Jeremy had the amazing foresight to get a pair of glasses for each of us. I didn't think I'd get that into it, but that morning I cancelled my exercise class appointment and we hung out outside and enjoyed the hazy sunlight. Even though we didn't get the full eclipse, we still really enjoyed the experience. The kids were way more into it than I thought they would be. They would take turns using the glasses and finding the sun, or the moon as Fitz called it. At first I was worried that they would burn their corneas, but I think the best part for them was the actual glasses, so I didn't have to worry after the first few times out. The shadows were my favorite part, so pretty! I also loved the temporary cooler temps.

I'll probably regret this one but...I'm almost to the point of a total eclipse of my feet. I'm starting to feel large and in charge, but am just really happy that I have a healthy growing baby in there and I would give up another 9 months of not seeing my feet to get him.

Jeremy was able to take a few extra days off right before Labor Day, which was the perfect way to wrap up August. We made sure to hit up Cherry Hill 2 more times and it's always more fun with dad. It's crazy to think how much Fitz has grown up just over pool season. He's so big now and my goodness, he needs to slow it down. It helps that he's still a big of a scardey cat in the water and needs his mama.

We also always try to make it to the zoo when Jeremy is off. I think he might like it more than the kids. Plus, I've vowed not to step into the reptile house until after the baby is born so Ellie dies for him to go just for that. We lucked out this time and saw all of the big cats, which are very obsolete during the hotter months. Ellie knows they are Jeremy's favorite and loves going with him. I love how she looks at him with starry eyes, and I hope she always does.

I also jumped at the chance to drag everyone to Ikea with me for some dang frames. I hate that it's so far away, but you cannot beat their frame prices and the other random things you need for cheap! We left Ellie at the play place (her happiest possible outcome) and we had Fitz all to himself. He tried to talk us into a few stuffed animals and we only walked out after a few tantrums.

That night we met up with J+M fam at one of our favorite parks for hobo dinners. It's one of my favorite summer traditions, and we're just now getting to it! We always go AT LEAST twice. Melinda and I have talked and we decided next summer we need to plan on May and August and any others in between are lovely bonuses. This time didn't disappoint and Fitz even made it down the slide a few times on his own. That's huge.

That Saturday I ditched my normal obligations and snuck off to Logan with my equally as pregnant friend Maren. We're literally due on the same day and it's been about the best thing ever. I don't think I would have gotten through this pregnancy without her. Anyway, we drove up to Logan, had the most delicious brunch at Herms, shopped literally until we dropped, went to see a horrible dollar movie, and then chatted late into the evening. It was so refreshing. My for closet as well actually because I came home with a few nursing friendly dresses that I cannot wait to wear. Dresses are my Sunday jam and good nursing ones have been difficult to find. Of course, I got 1 picture...of our food. We even have matching dresses, but I haven't given up. We will get a picture in them before we deliver our twin boy baby friends.

That long weekend left myself and Ellie exhausted. Ellie fell asleep on the long 5 minute drive to Costco on Tuesday and stayed asleep after I put her in the cart. Looks comfy, right?

She also hasn't been loving when I'm gone for long periods of time so she's really been wanting me to put her to bed. I've happily obliged and am always rewarded with the best snuggles. Oh how I love this girl of mine.

Summer Shenanigans: August Pt. 1

2017-08-15T20:47:00.000-06:00

August felt like a month of lasts, not bad lasts, but just a sprint to the end of summer. I always get this way right before I have a baby, especially because I have been very pregnant at the end of the summer with every pregnancy. I just wanted to fit everything in while it was so easy to get out of the house and before all of the pools close. It's been so wonderful. I've also been pushing hard through a to-do list that I pretty much demolished, thank you very much.

I have a wonderful friend in my ward who is due literally 1 day before me. We had the fantastic idea of switching babysitting during our doctors appointments and I don't know what I would have done without her, especially with the NSTs at the end of all of my appointments lately. Our kids are all the same gender and practically the same age and I just love her.

I think these 2 posts are going to be full of random pictures, but those are the best right? Jeremy made the kids these awesome helmets out of their magnet blocks and they thought they were pretty much the best ever.

Since we have been squishing in every possible activity I haven't been the most consistent with Fitz's naps. Luckily, he's the most laid back kid every and just makes up for it when he can. Of course he can only fall asleep with truck in hand.

Fitz was in a particularly good mood this evening and let Ellie swaddle him up and rock him for a couple minutes. It was so sweet to watch them together, especially without one of them crying. She's going to be such a big helper with the baby. Neither of us can even handle waiting.

We've been trying to visit Jeremy at work every week before that becomes more difficult too. We just meet up at the food court at City Creek. On this particular day Ellie wanted to see all the fish and Jeremy definitely delivered. We've gotten these lunches down to a science and they are quite enjoyable. The best part though is that Ellie tells everyone that her dad works at the dinosaur play place at City Creek. She thinks he has the most awesome "workshop" ever.

Speaking of Jeremy's work, it seems like he's been getting off earlier than usual plus, he's had some surprise days off. It's been wonderful. Because of this, we've spent a few cooler evenings exploring some new parks. I love when we do things like that together. The kids love having him around and so do I. It's just better when he's home.

Since I have been all sappy and pregnant, I've been trying to take the kids out, just the 3 of us. It's just so enjoyable and easy, and I'm almost mourning being able to leave the house in under 5 minutes with minimal consequences. The zoo is one of their favorites and they love running amok together from animal to animal. This time we took the time to take a picture at all of the picture spots. In the gorilla picture, that's them making their best attempts at gorilla faces.

Ellie has been prepping for preschool all month. Her favorite thing to do was request Letter Factory and then play with my letter board. She's pretty fluent in her letters and their sounds, but things got tricky when she was quizzing me on her words.

I still can't fathom that there will be 3 little people in our group pictures soon. I also can't fathom mothering 3 children on my own from day to day, but why on earth would we want this parenting thing to get too easy, right?

Summer Shenanigans: July

2017-07-31T16:56:00.000-06:00

July is always such a good month, it's hot but no one is sick of it yet and there are of course gobs of holidays to look forward too. It's just the summer, and it's always good.

Melinda and I often find ourselves on the phone many afternoons. I can't speak for her but it definitely makes the afternoons go by faster while I'm trying to get some cleaning done during quiet time. Well, on this particular day she mentioned that there was a new Pretzel Maker at Station Park. As some know one of my pregnancy cravings for all 3 kids has been soft pretzels so we loaded up Fitz, Ellie, and Addie and headed to Pretzel Maker on a whim. Of course it was delicious. We both got the cheese stuffed pretzel bites and if you haven't had them high tail it over there, now. As much as I love having my kids around it does make me look forward to the day that I can lunch without kids on random afternoons. One day...

This boy is getting way too big too quickly. He's growing nicely into her personality and it's quite hilarious. He is also becoming an acceptable playmate for Ellie and it's been fun watching them together this month. Ellie is really working on her patience and Fitz is learning where all of her buttons are. He's also getting really fast a running away.

Ellie is still as spunky as ever. Her ideas are always the best (and only acceptable) ideas, but they always come from a good place. We're still working on cutting out naps so I catch her in funny sleep positions. We got her a few of the classic toddler games and she's slowly catching on and really enjoys them...as long as she wins. We're still working on good sportsmanship.

We haven't been spending much time in our backyard. It's just been so hot and the kids would rather take off on their bikes and bother the neighbors instead. But, it's been cooling off a bit in the evenings so we've been hanging out back there a bit more. We have some delicious grapes that grow over our fence, but obviously they're not quite at their peak ripeness in July. Did that stop Ellie from sampling? Of course not. It was fun catching her sour faces on camera.

Basically, we've just been taking it easy and I'm soaking in their littleness. They're so sweet and curious and when I actually think about it, I am in awe that I made them, that I get to be their mother. And how in the heck did I luck out to stay at home with them every day? This guy. He's the best too. Man, have I struck gold.

Pioneer Day & My 28th Birthday

2017-07-27T17:27:00.000-06:00

My birthday and the 24th celebration kind of ran together this year so 2 posts in 1! This year was a good one for sure. My mom took the day off of work and spent the 24th with us. She treated us to Olive Garden as an early birthday dinner. These 2 little yahoos are not the easiest to take out to eat, but they did relatively well and I loved hanging out with my mom. They love their Mimi too!

After we got home from dinner we walked down to the parade on Main St. Earlier that morning Lisa and I set up blankets and chairs and we picked a pretty dang good spot all things considered. We met her and Tori down there right as the parade began. It's really the only parade that I'm down with because 1) it's close and 2) it's in the evening. While it was still extremely bright and hot, the kids loved watching the parade and Fitz especially loved all of the cars and trucks. There are fireworks that night, but after getting second dinner (ha!) with Jeremy's family, we all pooped out and just relaxed for the rest of the evening. It was a good day.

I lucked out this year for my birthday. Jeremy was able to take the day off, along with a few others, and we had the most relaxing time. Obviously, I'm all about that relaxation right now.

We started out the day at Corner Bakery. We ate our weight in pancakes and eggs and the kids mostly behaved. Jeremy took Ellie to get me balloons the night before and she could hardly handle waiting to give them to me. After brunch we just went home and hung out. The house was clean and the kids played while we lounged and watched New Girl. So nice! After we went to Smiths when Ellie decided that she needed to make me a cake. We had lunch in their food court and gathered the necessary supplies. She was so excited and Jeremy was so patient as they made the cake, which was a pink and purple cake, BTW. Her call.

Soon after we popped the cake in the oven my mom showed up with even more treats to babysit so Jeremy and I could go out to eat. She was left with the task of decorating the cake with Ellie and after prepping her for that we were off! I didn't get any pictures of the 2 of us, but we dined at Cheesecake Factory and thoroughly enjoyed having a hot meal that we didn't have to share with anyone but each other. It was so nice.

When we got home the cake was decorated and we celebrated with the pinkest and purplest cake known the man. The kids sang their little hearts out and even though Ellie wasn't the biggest fan of my cake, I sure was!

I'm learning in my old age, that the best times are the simple ones where I'm surrounded by those who love me and I love more than anything. My birthday was completely perfect and I wouldn't have changed a thing. Like I've said before, I've struck gold in the eternal family department.

Independence Day 2017

2017-07-05T22:23:00.000-06:00

We started off our celebrations this year on the 3rd. Neither Jeremy or I had the energy to attempt fireworks 2 nights in a row with a 7 a.m. breakfast in between so we did our own little fireworks show. Gary and Lisa joined us and we were all exhausted and Ellie had enough enthusiasm for all of us.

Ellie was amazed by her daddy's pyrotechnic skills and Fitz was terrified of everything. He has Lisa put her hand over his face the whole time, plus he was just plain exhausted. I was a little worried that he would freak during the big fireworks the next night, but luckily it's just the at-home kind that make him nervous, especially those little poppers.

Every 4th our ward puts on the best neighborhood breakfast. Fitz was so sleepy from the night before, I let him sleep in and sent Jeremy and Ellie. By the time I got there, no pictures were taken. It was delicious as always and the company can never be beat. We live in the greatest ward.

When we got home Ellie accidentally ran over a bug and was very sad about it. I convinced her it was in heaven and we buried it near the curb.

After the breakfast we continued on with tradition and went over to James and Melinda's for a swim and more delicious food. I love this holiday because there is always lots of low key activities that revolve around naps. It's practically perfect.

After naps Melinda and I went on a Swig run and then we got the kiddos ready for the BBQ at Nana and Papa's. Apparently we were all about the stars this year. The kids were good sports to take pictures because it was HOT outside.

We gobbled up tons of delicious food (lots and lots of corn for Fitz) and then ran off to the Kaysville fireworks.

We've been going to the Kaysville fireworks for years and have loved it every time. We have a spot and everything. It's fun looking back on the pictures, especially as we started adding the kids. Our group has varied every year, but it was fun to have so many of us this year. I remember our first time going was just me, Jeremy, James and Melinda. We went on a whim, sat as close as I think you possibly could to the fireworks and had holes burnt into our quilts. We loved every second!

The fireworks were spectacular and Fitz shocked us all by not moving the whole show. He loved it...probably because they were so far away. We ended the night with me loosing my wallet and making Jeremy drive back to Kaysville with me, at midnight, to look for it. Of course, it was no where to be found. We drove all the way back home only to have Jeremy find it under my seat. Ooops.

None the less, it was such a good day. One of my favorite holidays for sure. I'm so thankful to live in a free country and to raise my family here. We truly are blessed.

Summer Shenanigans: June Pt. 2

2017-07-02T21:58:00.000-06:00

The rest of our June went by way too quickly, but at a nice slow pace. Ellie spent a bunch of afternoons playing with friends from across the street. She was always so sad when it was time to part ways. One afternoon I found her outside in denial and finding cloud animals. At least she has her imagination.

Fitz has an ear for finding every possible plane on the horizon. He makes everyone stop what they're doing and will not stop yelping until we acknowledge that it's there. We're just trying to get him to call them planes instead of "copters". Well, I'm not trying that hard because it's adorable.

We went to James' birthday party at the Roy aquatic center. It's one of our favorite pools. The kids loved playing together and sunbathing during rest times.

After a month of sitting in the box, we finally set up the tramp. Ellie was so excited. Of course, it's been so hot this summer that the kids can't jump on it between the hours of 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. I'm thinking it'll be a hit this fall. Wah wah.

I have no idea why this picture was taken, but how cute are these cousins? The cutest.

Jeremy took some time off at the end of the month and it was the best. We did lots of relaxing and the kids just loved having him around. I think he was off for 5 days straight and it was very rough having him go back to work. Fitz especially went through withdrawls.

We started going to the kids movies that the Megaplex hosted on Tuesdays. Fitz struggles hard, but thankfully Lisa is willing to chase him around and share her nachos with him. It's a good time all around and you cannot beat that $1.50 popcorn. Note to self for next year: I do not get service in the theater. It's a bit painful.

Ellie went to her very first primary activity! They celebrated Pioneer Day and she had a blast. She made a covered wagon entirely out of treats that she didn't care for (and I devoured), and has apparently the best snow cone of her life. However, she was very sad when she sucked all of the purple flavoring out of the ice. She graciously let me finish her plain shaved ice.

We've spent more evenings than days at Cherry Hill. He love taking Jeremy with us. He goes down all of the fun slides and is way more fun than I could ever hope to be.

We roasted more marshmallows at Nana and Papa's and Ellie and I can agree that we could go for a good smores every night.

While Jeremy was off the whole crew came with me to my doctors appointment. We of course ended up waiting for about 40 minutes and the kids were nuts, but what can ya do? After, we were all ravenous and stopped at Mrs. Backer's pasteries. Jeremy and I have been wanting to go there for years. It was a cute shop, but sooooo expensive. It was very tasty though and the perfect appetizer to lunch.

We finished off the month and Jeremy's time off with taking the kids to Cars 3. Fitz was a terror and Ellie didn't do too fantastic either, darn it. I was sad because the movie was actually really cute and I can't wait to see the ending. One day we'll make it through a movie, one day...maybe in 5 or so years.

Ellie & Fitz at this moment in time

2017-06-25T22:40:00.000-06:00

These 2 children of mine never cease to amaze and entertain me. They constantly have me laughing right now and I'm hoping I can remember some of their sweet moments to record as I sit here crunching ice and eating pretzel M&Ms (pregnancy!). Oh, and watching Felicity, again.

Ellie: This girl is a hoot. I love watching the way her mind works. A few nights ago my mom was here visiting and Ellie was shining a flashlight up her nose and stopped and said: "Mimi, why do you have spider webs up your nose?", referring to her nose hairs. Haha. Her favorite name is 'Lovely' and all of her stuffed animals, babies, future real babies, and her name while in princess persona. She's always planning or pretending something. Every morning when she wakes up she asks where we're going and who we're seeing. She's the biggest social butterfly and about dies on Sundays when she can't play with friends. Honestly, this breaks my heart a little because I'm not ready for her to need anyone else but me. A little selfish, huh? She loves saying our family prayers at night and she loves praying for the baby boy to make sure he's a boy, that Grandpa Lasater loves heaven, and that we say, "no no Satan, you can't come into our house today.". Her prayers are full of gold and I need to start voice recording her. One big difference between her and Fitz is their tidiness. Ellie is a tornado who loathes cleaning up after herself. Fitzy closes all the doors, puts away everything and wipes up his sisters spills. How do they even come like this!

Fitz: OK, so this boy had me worried for a little while. He was not, and still isn't, a huge talker. I had him evaluated at early intervention and while he was a little behind, it wasn't enough to qualify for services. This made me feel both good and bad. Good because he wasn't as far behind and bad because I felt completely guilty that I hadn't been putting the time in that I should have with him. He is such an easy going kid and Ellie is...well she demands more of my attention..so needless to say, he doesn't get as much of me as I should. The amazing thing is that once I started reading to him one on one every day his words went through the roof. He has about 40-50 words now, which is all he needs by the time he's 2 and he LOVES books. It's so fun to sit down with him and look through all the of the pictures. He's an observer. When we're outside he's always on the hunt for birds, bugs, cars, or planes (which he lovingly calls 'copters). When he sees one of these things, he stops, makes sure you stop, and points it out with the utmost excitement. He's still loving his pediasure and I'm not sure how I'll ever get him off of it. We actually call it his morning coffee because you don't speak or interact at all with Fitz until he's gotten his morning cup. He spends his time inside lining up his trucks on the arm rests of our couches and chairs. He makes different sounds for each of them and takes turns driving them around. He's such a boy and I love watching him.

Baby: I might as well throw in a few updates on this pregnancy while I'm at it. We're officially less than 100 days and I can't even believe it! He's making us a little nervous by measuring small, but we're getting another good look at him tomorrow to make sure everything is ok. I'm sure it will be. Around 10 p.m. every night he lets me know that he's there and kicks around like crazy. I'm starting to be able to feel him on the outside too and can't wait to let Ellie feel him. I'm pretty sure I'm set on a name, but Jeremy keeps throwing new ones to the list, so who knows what his name will end up being. Hopefully we can pin something down before he gets here.

They're all changing so quickly and I want to freeze time but I also want to get all of my babies here. Seeing them together is the things dreams are made of, seriously. I hope they always choose each other.

Summer Shenanigans: June Pt. 1

2017-06-16T22:34:00.000-06:00

When the pool opens it's officially summer!!! We've been anxiously holding onto our Cherry Hill passes since last November and our first visit did not disappoint. We went in the evening with Jeremy and the weather was perfect. Ellie has fallen in love with the lazy river and Fitz tolerates it. I hope he loves it soon. I also hope we go a million times because I can't even fathom swimming with 3 children next year.

Ellie started swimming lessons and can often be found demonstrating "monkey, airplane, soldier" to anyone who will listen. Fitz didn't find being stuck behind those bars amusing one bit, but he loved exploring the other side of the backyard and getting extra snacks. Ellie jumped off the diving board for her first time! I was very surprised at how apprehensive she was about it, but of course once she did it once, she couldn't get enough. There were a couple days that were freezing (like 57 degrees) and raining. I was worried lessons would be cancelled, but the pool was heated and I think all of the parents were jealous of the kids. The warm water looked SO good. I could hardly bring myself to tell Ellie when it was her last day. She was sad, but handled it like a champ. She's already counting down the days until next time.

It's been getting a bit hot during the day so we end up outside in the early morning and later evenings. The kids love wandering around, exploring, and riding their bikes up and down the street. They're exhausting. Also, if you don't already have one, buy a bubble machine. They're the best.

During the day, when the temps are a little too high for my pregnant body, I've been struggling a bit to figure out what to do with them. Ellie basically thinks she's dying when we don't have a full itinerary for the day. One day she wanted to make cooking, so to avoid turning on the oven, we went to no bake route. They're my favorite. Ellie was disappointed that they looked like poo instead of sugar cookies with pink frosting. She has a type for sure.

I will not deny that they have also had some ample TV time. We put a TV in our room (and I LOVE it, even though it's supposed to be the worst thing even or something) and it's been basically the coolest thing ever to watch TV in mom's bed. Fitz's favorite is when he can sneak up without Ellie noticing and asking for a truck show on his own. He doesn't get many of his own things so I happily oblige.

We've been phasing out Ellie's naps to try and get her to go to bed before 11 p.m. (I wish I was kidding). One afternoon I noticed that she had been quiet for a loooong time so I started looking for her. She wasn't anywhere. Seriously, no beds, couches, anywhere. Finally, I found her between our wall and bed in her own makeshift bed...totally passed out...at 4:50 p.m. She's a tricky one.

We've also been enjoying the Megaplex kids movie punch pass. Fitz isn't quite to the point where he'll sit through a movie, but luckily Lisa has been joining us and she's willing to chase him around. Bless her. Ellie soaks in the movies and has developed an unhealthy love for movie popcorn...as have I.

And of course, we've spent some good time at the zoo. We love that place and have loved going with friends. Now that they've added the park and splash pad, I won't be shocked if we're there almost weekly.

Summer Shenanigans: May

2017-06-02T22:03:00.000-06:00

May was good to us. Not too hot, not too cold. We started dipping our toes into summer with daily Popsicles after naps/quiet time. Sometimes Ellie would even talk me into girl club popsicles before Fitz woke up, so she got 2...and so did I. I love having that time with her where we just talk about everything. Hopefully I can figure out a way to keep girl club strong, I love talking to that girl. I've also loved watching Ellie and Fitz together. Fitz has learned the word "bite" and they have gotten very good at sharing their popsicles.

I found these cute little camp chairs at Walmart for about $5 and they both LOVE them. They've also become very territorial of their own chairs.

I had to throw this one in there because it reminded me of the nursery rhyme, "There was a little girl, who had a little curl, right in the middle of her forehead. When she was good she was very good and when she was bad..." Well, you know the rest. It pretty much rings true. Gosh I love her.

It's also been the perfect weather for park hops. We've spent a few evenings at the park with Jeremy, Costco pizza in tow. It's been glorious.

Jeremy also makes sure to bring his remote control helicopter wherever he can and the kids are obsessed.

We've been hustling to complete a few house projects before the pool opens meaning we've had a copious amount of extra cardboard. Leave it to daddy to create something fun. Below, Ellie is a princess knight with a sword. Fitz takes the much more peaceful approach and made his an airplane (his current obsession).

Along with those fantastic camp chairs we also found a $10 pool and it's been the crown jewel of their day. The water is freezing still, but hey, I don't have to get in and I get to read poolside for hours.

Our Saturdays have been chuck full of yard work and while we've been dealing with that the kids have loved running around the yard, playing in the sandbox, and the like. Their favorite thing, however, has been finding snails. Ellie has deemed all of them her pets and have named them all Lovely. I can't even believe they are brave enough to hold them. Sadly, they ate almost all of my tiny flowers so they had to go. I almost feel bad...

At the end of the month we went with Heidi and her family up to Eden to swim at her parent's pool. The kids were dying to get into an actual pool and we spent hours there. Ellie got a good jump start on her delicious bum tan lines. We've also discovered that Hawaii must have had some lasting effect on Fitz because he does not enjoy getting into the pool...at all. Well, unless he's sitting on me, sitting on a pool float. We'll get there...

We spent the last day of the month celebrating Micah's birthday. We dined at PF Changs and ended the evening at Nielson's. We sure love this boy. I hate that he lives all the way in Logan now.

Water Babies

2017-05-18T21:30:00.000-06:00

Lately, I've been sticking the kids in the shower together to give myself a few seconds to get some things done (mostly cleaning the bathroom) and to avoid the bath water clean up. Turns out they both LOVE it and get along swimmingly. They've been begging to get in almost daily and are content for at least 20 minutes. Is this the most environmentally conscious? Nah, but my sanity is well worth it. Plus, watching Fitz try to take his shirt off is about as cute as it comes...so is Ellie's little bum.

BYU Fan Fest

2017-05-17T21:26:00.000-06:00

We hit up the BYU Fan Fest yesterday and it was quite the experience. I'm not usually much for crowds, long lines, and football in general, but we did have a good time. Jeremy loved being there with his family, who are finally home! He's already counting down the days until football seasons. This helped fill that void for a moment though.

All of the kids basically ran around for 2 hours, playing games and throwing footballs at each other. While it's difficult to keep track of them, they are still so fun to watch. They also spent a good amount of time stuffing their faces with ice cream and cougar tails (which are donuts). Ellie loved seeing the cheerleaders and was on cloud 9 when she got to hold their poms and take a picture with them. Fitz was obviously less than impressed.

We waited in line for face paint of course. Ellie was stoked and again, Fitz couldn't be swayed one way or another. They both looked so dang cute though.

Here we have all of the obligatory family photos, that I of course love taking. It was fun to be all together again. I'm sure we'll have many more of these little outings coming up.

This is super random, but Ellie went to sleep over at Nana's and Papa's with her cousins that night so Fitz got some one on one mommy and daddy time. It was pretty late, but we spent a significant amount of time watching him struggle to lift these 3-5 lb. weights. There was some definite grunting involved. I love watching his little personality develop. You'll get those muscles soon enough baby cakes!

Temple Square in the Spring

2017-05-09T10:20:00.000-06:00

Like I said before, I spent the beginning of the year laying on the couch, keeping the kids cooped up. Once we got back from Hawaii and got back on our time schedule, I tried to make it up to them a little bit.

Enter my friend Heidi, who is the best at doing fun things and planning fun things and then inviting us to join. She invited us to go with them down to SLC and see the flowers at temple square. It was so fun to get the kids together and see the beautiful temple grounds. I want this tree in my yard!

We took the kids into the visitors center to see the Christus and they loved that. Then we made them take a million pictures, which was their favorite. Aren't they the cutest though?

After we checked out every tulip, we headed over to City Creek for lunch. It was nothing short of a 3-ring circus with 5 kids, but Jeremy got to join us, so it was all worth it. Then we rewarded their poor behavior with the dinosaur play place. Who am I kidding? That was to reward our super mom status after eating with 5 kids.

We always love adventuring with the Allen family. We'd be bored without them!

Ellie's Spring Recital

2017-05-08T09:04:00.000-06:00

Ellie has almost officially wrapped up her first season as a ballerina. Apparently after their recital they have a month of dance parties. Oh to be a tiny dancer. She lives the life. We have loved Project Move and her teacher Miss Melanie is the gem of all gems. We recommend her studio to anyone and everyone that will listen.

Monday night, Ellie had her recital, which was the cherry on top of it all. I don't think there are many things cuter than 3 year olds in sparkly tutus attempting a choreographed dance. I had so much fun getting her ready. She is definitely my girly girl. She couldn't wait for me to curl her hair and put on all the makeup that she begs to wear on a daily basis. She has gotten much better as sitting still while I do her eyes. Last time she looks like a sparkly purple raccoon, darn it. After she was dressed and ready she was more than willing to pose for a few photos. During the whole process she kept saying that I was her biggest fan and she was mine. It couldn't be more true. I am by far her biggest fan and I wouldn't rather have anyone else in my corner.

We got to Viewmont High School nice and early to get some good seats, but of course I forgot Ellie's ballet shoes, so Ellie and I raced back home and made it back just before the show started. She ran right into the staging room and cozied up next to her friends. She was lucky enough to have 2 friends for outside of dance in her class this year. Ruby and Abby made dance a little extra fun. They loved singing Moana and talking dress ups on our drives to class during the week. I'm so glad she's already making such good friends.

I always worry that Ellie will freeze once she's up on stage, but of course, she started shaking her hips the second the music started and didn't stop until she was ushered off the stage. She is so fun to watch! She loved watching the rest of the dancers and told me each girl that she wanted to be like when she grows up. I wonder if she will actually stick with it.

After her dance I went to pick her up and she immediately asked when she got to go back on stage. Luckily, there was an encore this time and she got to take her final bow and hang out with all of the other dancers. Even better, she got to sit right in the front and got a rose from her favorite Miss Melanie.

Ellie was lucky enough to have Aunt Tori, Nana, Papa, and Mimi join her. Mimi had to leave early so no pictures, but she didn't leave Ellie empty handed. She pulled out a huge peanut butter chocolate egg that was devoured in seconds. Mimi always has a good treat hiding in her purse.

Nana and Papa gave Ellie a pinwheel in place of flowers and I wish I would have gotten a picture of her face when she saw it. Best idea ever Lisa! She loved having her adoring crowd with her and was so excited to invite everyone over for cake after!

I had to snap a few pictures with Ellie's friend Abby. They are 2 peas in a pod and I've loved watching them dance and play together. We're keeping our fingers crossed for many more spunky years to come.

We did have a quick cake party after but I didn't get a single picture because I was a useless lump on the couch. I think everyone was in and out within 30 minutes because we were all pooped. We're so grateful to have such supportive family and friends. This is the good stuff of parenting and life.

Visiting Grandma & Grandpa Lasater

2017-05-05T22:53:00.000-06:00

Last Sunday we were able to go for a quick visit to my grandparents house. It was so good to see them, even if it was too short of a time. Ellie and Fitz were so excited to see their great-grandparents and were sad when it was time to go. Fitz ran right to Grandpa and gave him his best snuggles. My grandpa has a way with my kids and it's my favorite to watch.

Ellie performed all of her best primary songs and told them all about Hawaii. She has plenty of kisses for grandpa as well and he just couldn't get enough of her. My grandma has a way with Ellie as well and made her day when she offered to sew up a hole in her dress. I don't think I've ever seen Ellie sit still for that long.

I miss being able to see them whenever I want, so that just made this visit extra sweet. I have been blessed with the most wonderful grandparents. They've shaped a huge part of who I am today.

Before we left, we kidnapped my mom and took her to the park for a little bit. It was nice to spend the time with just her. The best part was the donkeys and chickens though. Ellie wanted to take all of them home, but I reminded her that Santa was looking forward to bringing her a fish for Christmas, so that appeased her...for now. Fitz got bit by the donkey and shockingly enough, kept going back to try and pet it again. They're such little animal lovers. I love that about them and think it means they have extra tender hearts.

Ellie cried when we took her back to my grandparents and made me think about how important family is and how lucky we are to live so close to most of our family, especially now that Jeremy's parents are back. I don't know what I'd do without any of them!

Life at Home with Ellie

2017-05-04T22:43:00.000-06:00

As most of you know, my Ellie Bean is a social gal. Every morning when she wakes up she comes into my room, sweetly says, "rise and shine mama!" and then promptly asks where we are going and who we are seeing that day. After I ruin her day before it even starts, by telling her no where and no one, I coax a few more minutes of shut eye by handing her my phone, sending her to make her bed, and then snapping a picture to show me. It's only about 5 minutes, but this girl has gone from feeling totally incapable to a rockstar bed maker. Her photo skills are also improving.

But, because I have my annoying pregnancy energy crisis, we don't get out as much as she's used to. She's coming to terms with it more and more and has gotten very creative in the process. Above, she's doing her own form of exercise. It's lasted for about 30.5 seconds. Besides that, she spends her time bossing Fitz, evading naps, and asking for every snack under our roof. She has come up with "bedtime snacks", which she always needs right after I've told her it's nap/bedtime.

Tori moved home and every since then Ellie has been all about her Aunt Tori. She puts up with Ellie's most ridiculous requests and will even play endless games of ispy with her in the car. I don't know where Tori gets her patience. Where ever she gets it, it never goes unnoticed or unappreciated. Ellie happily shoos me out of the house anytime Tori is over. She doesn't quite get yet that I also like to spend time with Aunt Tori and isn't happy when she has to share.

My favorite thing about spending extra time at home is watching Ellie and Fitz learn to play together. There are times when he drives her absolute nuts and she tries to stick him in time out. On the other end of the spectrum she cries actual tears of sadness when she finds out I've put him down for a nap. But really, for the most part they do pretty well. Their favorite place to hide out together is in Ellie's bed. She's load him up with lots of books and they'll spend tons of time just giggling and looking at pictures. The best was when she came down from one of their hangouts and she told me Fitz smelled like a smelly honey badger and needed a diaper change. That one gave me a good laugh. I've also noticed that when Fitz gets hurt or gets in trouble (by yours truly), he runs straight to Ellie's arms. It melts me into a puddle. He always has the best hugs and biggest puckers for her.

Ellie still misses her Uncle Cale and asks me to take pictures of her to send to him everyday. Cale and I share a love for The Office so we thought he would love this picture and Ellie was happy to oblige.

Anytime we do need to leave the house, she also thinks it needs to be documented...though I swear it's not that bad! Last week was particularly rainy (and snowy) so before she left she said that she looked so cute so we needed to get a porch picture! Haha, have I ruined her or what?

Tomorrow she's made me promise that we'll snuggle on the couch and watch Brave...after we go out and play with friend of course!

The Helicopter

2017-05-03T08:39:00.001-06:00

A couple weeks ago we met up with my mom at her school in SLC for an event they did for their students. They had police cars, fire engines, crash simulators, and a ton of other response and emergency vehicles for the kids to check out. The coolest part was the life flight helicopter that landed right on the field. As we got out of the car I could hear it coming and we had made it just in time!

Fitz loves anything flying in the air lately, so he was in heaven watching the helicopter land. Ellie thought it was pretty cool too once it got close to the ground. Of course, when given the opportunity to go and check it out, did they care? No. I think Fitz will in a few years but Ellie was just obsessed with the playground. Silly kids. They did love running around it and when it was time for the helicopter to take off, Fitz was not ready to evacuate the premises.

While we waited for my mom the kids enjoyed running around the playground. It really was an amazing playground. It had everything you could ever dream of, plus some. Fitz was a good little brother and followed Ellie to and from her every whim. We will definitely be putting this one on our list of playgrounds to visit this summer.

Once my mom got their she showed the kids another secret playground that had sand and water and music galore. We could have spent all day. Fitz is a bit of a scardy cat when it comes to slides. My mom had to coax him down even the tiniest of slides. It's been very interesting going from a daredevil child to a more cautious one.

After we finished up playing we got some corn dogs from the food truck and spent some time looking at all of the fun trucks and cars. We got Ellie and Fitz a corndog to share and Ellie ended up passing and Fitz finished the whole dang thing. It was almost as big as him. There were also some service dogs in training that my kids couldn't get enough of. They loved petting them. Fitz did get his feelings hurt when I told him he wasn't allowed to share his corn dog.

We had such a fun afternoon and loved spending the time with my mom. We don't get to see her nearly enough. Thanks Mimi!

Pregnancy #3 // 0-18 weeks

2017-05-02T21:44:00.000-06:00

I have officially crawled out of the first trimester hole and want to make sure that it's documented, even though 98% of it involves me laying on the couch. I'm due September 30th with our second boy! Y, es it seems that we are on some kind of schedule. When this baby is born Fitz will have (hopefully) just turned 2 and Ellie will be 4 at the beginning of October. Yes, people think we're crazy, but I just want my whole family here. Having a baby in the early fall is pretty great too. And yes, I also know I will be pregnant all summer. I've done it twice. It's not bad, but I don't know any different. Just get me all my babies!

I have to be totally honest, this pregnancy was, and sometimes still is, a huge leap of faith. Fitz's first year of life was one of my hardest. It wasn't completely his fault, but his disdain for sleep was a big contributing factor. Really, in all honesty though, it was the hormones and a lot of growing up that needed to happen anyway. I still wouldn't trade it. It was However, once Fitz turned one, he became a dream napper and night sleeper, just like that! I was finally able to start working out regularly. I didn't feel overwhelmed by life in general. Oh, and I stopped nursing, which I'm pretty sure caused a ridiculous amount of anxiety on its own. I finally felt like myself and it was a beautiful thing.

When Fitz turned 1, I knew our next baby was itching to get here. I had been fighting it and would continue to do so, well, until I got pregnant. I didn't want to give up my body or energy again. Mostly, I didn't want to give up the feeling of finally feeling like I was an active participant in my life again. Sound dramatic? I tend to do that, but it's true.

I got a positive pregnancy test on January 21st and I was nothing but ecstatic. The realization didn't sink in until later and then all of the worries set in. I have kind of miserable first trimesters with lots of throwing up. So my first order of business was to convince myself that this pregnancy would be different. I made it until about 6 weeks and then the nausea set in. Luckily, Diclegis had been invented since my pregnancy with Fitz and while I felt consistent nausea and exhaustion I only threw up when I forgot to take my meds the night before. It was a heaven sent blessing.

Those 8 weeks are always the hardest for me, and they get more and more so each time because I still have tiny people who need me constantly. When I was pregnant with Fitz I would lay on the couch and throw pieces of bread at Ellie to feed her until Jeremy got home while intermittently throwing up. It was ridiculous. Luckily, this time there were only a few days where I couldn't look at food, but still, we made it through our entire Disney library at least 19 times and have watched more Netflix than I'll ever admit. One of the things that I love about having September/October babies, I'm sick during February and March, and nothing exciting happens in February and March. By the time it warms up I feel great and am ready to hit the pools...in a maternity swimsuit (ugh!)

The kids handled it really well. They played together more than they ever have, and I've loved watching their relationship develop. Still, I think we were all excited to take off to Hawaii and get out of the house. Amazingly enough, the day after we got to Hawaii I got off of Diclegis and only had a few sick moments the whole 2 weeks. Since then I've felt pretty good in that regard and I thank my lucky stars every day! I still have several food aversions. This time it's guacamole, salads with meat, and eggs. The eggs have carried over all 3 pregnancies, which drives me nuts because it takes me almost 6 months after to get over it every time.

I'm still really really tired and I have a small disdain for all of the girls that get their energy back in the second trimester. Ok, not really, but I just really really wish that was me. My energy has gone up from zero though, so I can't complain too much. I've also noticed this time around that I have to budget my energy stores and it has been the most frustrating thing so far. If I wake up early, exercise, or just "go" too much during the day, I almost have a crash for the 2 days after. It's made sitting down throughout the day easier to justify, but so dumb when I'm trying to get things done, because getting up after sitting down is rough even when you're not pregnant. Am I right?! I've had to give myself a lot of grace and let a lot of things go, which is never easy.

As far as gender goes, I was super positive I was having a girl. Everyone else, EVERYONE, guessed boy, except you Melinda! Thanks for the support! Okay, and Ellie. Ellie really wants a sister still. We were so excited to find out we're having a boy though. It just feels right and Ellie took it surprisingly well. She's just going to be happy to have a tiny baby to take care of. I'm super excited, but a tiny bit nervous at the amount of freedom she thinks she's going to have. It's going to be the sweetest thing, I just know it. I couldn't stand to wait and surprise ourselves, so Jeremy and I found out and then we told Ellie and Fitz by spraying them with blue silly string. There had to be balloons involved too, of course. It was really fun! Since then, I have found all of the cutest baby things Target has to offer and we're basically ready to roll. Having the same gender is going to be so nice as far as reusing all of the things! We pretty much have a name nailed down, and I'm hoping it sticks, but knowing Jeremy and I, who knows!

So, here I am, 18 weeks in. I have once again given up my body and every ounce of energy I posses. I swear I started showing at 8 weeks...and the zits! It's worth it. I'm so excited for September, and am trying not to wish away the wonderful summer we have ahead of us. I want to soak in every second of Ellie and Fitz time I can get. They're getting so big. So, here we go!

Summer, we're ready for you!

Easter 2017

2017-04-20T11:30:00.000-06:00

I feel like our Easter started the weekend before while we were still with Nana & Papa in Hawaii. We got the kids dressed up in their Easter outfits. Lisa got them both those cute little hats and I can't get over them! There was egg dying, hunts, and plenty of treats.

During the week we spent lots of time practicing our egg hunting skills. Ellie told me that I'm too easy and Fitz finally figured out that it's worth picking up more than one egg. We might even continue them into the summer because it's such an easy way to entertain the two of them with minimal effort on my part.

On Saturday morning we finally took the kids to their first official Easter egg hunt. We walked down to the tabernacle lawn and lined up for the dash. We met up with some friends and family and the kids loved collecting eggs. Ellie's hunt only lasted for about 4 seconds, but I thinks she was happy'with her 4 eggs. Jeremy said Fitz kept picking up eggs and putting them in other kid's baskets. So, I guess our practice only kind of paid off. After we ate some breakfast we headed home for naps. The Easter bunny ended up coming during their naps and left them with a little bit of candy and bubble wands. I'm pretty sure their candy is still sitting untouched, but the bubble wands have been refilled about 20 times already.

On Sunday we headed out the door bright and early for one of my old YW's homecoming talk. She did such a good job. Fitz and Ellie came down with some nasty colds so we stayed home the rest of the day so they could nap. Later that day we headed over to Tori's for dinner. We kept it simple, but the food was delicious. We ended the evening with one more front yard egg hunt, threw the kids into bed and stayed up a little too late playing games. Of course, I got one picture. I was having too much fun.

I'm so thankful for the Atonement. We know He lives! Hope lives because He does. And because of Him I get to be with ALL of my family forever.

Happy Easter.

Hawaii 2017 // Week 2

2017-04-19T22:26:00.001-06:00

Our second week was a good one. We packed in more than I thought possible and spent gobs of time at the beach and brought home about a ton of sand in our rental car. Ellie is still asking every.single.day. to go back. She really did have the time of her life.

On Monday we headed up to the North Shore. We had spent almost zero time up there our past 2 times going so I was so excited to finally explore it! Our first stop was Ted's Bakery. Anyone who has been to Oahu has been to Ted's...except for us! We got a pulled pork plate with 3 pieces of the most amazing garlicky, buttery, shrimp I have ever tasted. It had no shell, and it was to die for. I could have eaten that for rest of the trip. Jeremy finally got a piece of their haupia pie and I talked him into getting one with chocolate in it because, well, chocolate. It did not disappoint. If we didn't have a whole days worth of things to do and an hour drive home, we probably would have bought a whole pie. Fitz and Ellie spent the entire time there chasing the birds. There were birds everywhere and chasing them was easily one of their most favorite things to do there. Weirdos.

Our next stop was to Turtle Beach. We stopped here on our first visit, but didn't have any luck spotting any turtles. We lucked out this time and got to hang out with this big guy for a few minutes right when we got there. Ellie and her animal loving heart couldn't get enough and Fitz couldn't take his eyes off of him. He kept pointing, pulling Jeremy's beard, and grunting. If only you'd talk baby boy! Side note: how touristy does Fitzy look? Bucket hat, back pack, and all. Ahhhh! I love him. We were all sad to see the turtle swim back to the ocean, but it was kinda fun to watch him go. Ellie said it was ok, because she was worried he would get a sunburn if he sat out on the sand too long. Have I brain-washed her or what?

Our last major stop of the day was Waimea beach. I loved this beach, but I word of warning. If you're going with kids take flotation devices and swim with them. Half of the bay has super huge waves and they get more and more gradual as you walk to the other end. We spent most of our time at the calmer end, but we also had to make sure Ellie was in her puddle jumper because there was a drop off that took me up to my neck and knocked me off my feet the first time. Lucky for us, 50% of our children don't go near the water and sit under an umbrella in the sand the whole time. Ellie had a blast with her dad. They caught all the waves and collected about 1000 sea shells. Tori kept me busy on the beach with Fitz, bless her. Fitz loved hanging out with her every time we went to the beach. She's so patient with all of them and will actually play with them. It's safe to say she's the favorite. The sand on this beach was way more coarse, which I preferred, because it wipes off so much easier. The kids loved it because they said it tasted good. Both of them. I don't even know.

On the way home we hit up Main Street in Haleiwa, strongly considered Matsumotos shave ice and then looked at the line and changed our mind. I feel okay about that decision. It was fun people watching and looking at all the shops. Then we made our hour long drive home. Of course the kids slept the whole way and were ready to party when we got home. No rest for the weary (parents).

We loved the North Shore so much that we headed up the next day to do the Waimea Falls hike with our whole family. I'm talking aunts, uncles, cousins, parents, siblings, grandparents, the whole shabang. It was fun to be all together. That hike had been on our list since the first time we came, but it's closed in the "winter" and we've only been in November and January. We were so excited to finally go! Before we got to the hike we stopped to get shave ice cream, another Tori suggestion. I can't believe I didn't get a picture of it! It was like shave ice, but made out of ice cream. It had a crazy texture but was pretty dang good. After we fueled up we hiked. It was so beautiful and Ellie loved pointing all of the flowers and possible fairy hideouts to her very patient Nana. The hike was super easy and paved and at the top was a beautiful waterfall and pond? watering hole? I don't know, but it was fun. We got our life jackets on and hopped in. As you can imagine, Fitz was not happy or willing to get in. Of course we made him and his blood curdling screams reverberated off the walls of the waterfall. He is ridiculous. The only way we could get him to calm down was to put him on the boogie board. He was ok as long as he had a death grip on our hands and we didn't jiggle him. At all.

After the hike we visited Waimea Bay one more time. Jeremy jumped off the huge rock with Tori and his cousin Phteven and I got to swim with Ellie while it rained. Why can't all rain be glorious and warm? Of course while I was in the water, Fitz managed to cover everything in sand. Everything. He was so pleased with himself. He also pooped that grainy sand for the next 48 hours. Yes he did.

On Wednesday we went to the Kaneohe botanical gardens. It was beautiful and Jeremy even picked up a bird guide and the kids were in heaven. We also spotted some wild boars, two fairy houses, and several mongoose. We made a trek up a little hill and thoroughly enjoyed the view. Hawaii is so breathtaking. I would never get tired of the scenery.

After the gardens we got lunch at Maui Mikes (no pictures, dang it) which makes the best rotisserie chicken sandwiches ever! Go! Go! Go! Then we had shave ice round 2 at Island Snow. Not our favorite, but still shave ice, so delicious.

That evening we finally made it to Bellows Beach, which is Jeremy's favorite. Going to the beach was so nice because it wore the kids right out and I didn't have to stress as much about sunblock. We were able to convince Jeremy's grandparents to come with us and it was fun to hang out with them. Some of Jermey's aunts and uncles were staying on the beach so they came over and met us as well and we had ourselves a little evening beach party. Fitz spent most of his time playing in the sand (shocking) and chasing the birds. Ellie got one on one Aunt Marie time and then hit the waves with her daddy on the boogie board. She is an adventure chaser.

Everytime Fitz would throw a tantrum he would collapse face down in the sand and cry. This would happen anytime I would take him anywhere near the water, anytime I wouldn't let him run a mile away to chase the birds, and anytime I would make him leave the beach. And I thought his sister was dramatic. Thus #sandyfacefitz was born.

For record keeping sake, I was 13 & 14 weeks pregnant in Hawaii. I was magically able to get off of my anti-nausea medication the day we got there and only had one sick moment the whole time we were there. A true Hawaiian miracle I tell you. I can't think of a better time to have gone. We announced our pregnancy on the beach (except it wasn't much of a surprise for anyone considering Ellie had been announcing her "teeny tiny baby" to anyone that would listen for months before) and now were anxiously awaiting my next appointment to find out if we'll be adding a brother or a sister.

The whole reason why we went out to Hawaii was for my Father-In-Law's retirement ceremony. He served for 21 years in the Air Force and was an amazing pediatric provider. I know he'll be missed, but we are sure excited to have him home. His ceremony was moving and the kids even mostly behaved. We all got beautiful leis (you should have smelled them -- HEAVEN) and the cake was soooo good! It was fun to spend time all together celebrating Gary's great achievement. We're so proud of him! Love you Papa!

At Gary's ceremony I talked with a few of their local friends and told them about Fitz's crazy fear of the ocean. They recommended Kaiona Beach park and we went the very next day. The beach had a few areas of ocean that were surrounded by a rock wall that calmed the waves before they made it to us. The water was so clear, warm, and perfectly aqua, I was sure Fitz would dive right in. Of course, he didn't, but I did get some delicious snuggles from him that I wouldn't trade for anything. Ellie and I played swimming kitties (?) while he clung for dear life. I would totally recommend this beach with kids. It was so fun.

That afternoon we drove to Laie for a family temple session and stopped at Giovanni's for some more succulent shrimp. Fitz even got in on the action this time and I think he ended up eating half my plate.

The temple is another thing that's been on our list since our first trip out. The first time we weren't able to easily go because I was nursing Ellie and the temple is an hour away from my in-laws and the second time it was closed. Tori's sweet friend Lacy watched all of the kids while we did a session. I love visiting the temple no matter where I am and I'm thankful I was able to add this one to my list.

That night the whole fam dined on Papa Ole's, which was of course delicious and you must go. Are you tired of hearing that? I can't even help myself. My pork had gravy on it. Gravy! Hawaiian gravy heaven.

On Friday we went on another breathtaking hike. It was on Judd trail and we hiked to...wait for it...Jackass Ginger pond. The name itself raises curiosity, yes? The trail was short, shaded, and changed scenery about a million times. Ellie was able to walk everything on her own and Gary carried Fitz on his shoulders the whole time. I took more videos than pictures because pictures don't do it justice. Not one bit. Fun fact, there were gobs of LOST scenes filmed along the trail so I was in nerdy Lostie heaven. We walked across a river, into a bamboo forest, into a tropical forest, and then to the pond. I didn't get into the pond (this fetus stifled my game several times on this trip) but Ellie and Jeremy went down a rock water slide and jumped off of lots of rocks. I sat up by the waterfall and the water felt amazing. Heaven. I could have stayed there all day. It was my favorite adventure we had the whole trip. After, Tori lured me to another Lost filming location (not that it was difficult to convince me) and Jeremy jumped off a huge waterfall. I'm terrified of heights so I held the kids at a safe distance and just have a video to prove he did it.

On the way home we hit up my favorite shave ice place, The Local Hawaiian, and all of my shave ice needs were met, which was a good thing because we went home 2 days later.

That night Gary and Lisa's ward threw them a luau and THE FOOD! I don't even have any pictures because I was too busy inhaling everything in sight. There was even a full roasted pig. Ellie was stunned and kept asking who got to eat that apple out of it's mouth. I said that it just wasn't here. After eating Ellie spent the rest of the night chasing and catching frogs. I'm telling you she's a fearless, free spirited, animal loving gal. Gary and Lisa are sad to leave such an amazing ward. The people are just good. It was fun to visit with the people we had met over the years. Please notice that Ellie's hair goes into perfect ringlets in Hawaii. I didn't use heat on my hair once either. We're much more attractive in the humidity.

On Sunday we went to Aunt Tori's ward to hear her speak and sing. She did such a wonderful job. At the end of sacrament meeting her ward sang her Aloha Oe and everyone lined up to give her leis. I cried. It's such a sweet way to say goodbye! That morning we put the kids in their Easter clothes from Nana and Papa and I attempted a picture. Of course NO ONE cooperated, which ticked me right off. Looking back though, these are way better and show their true sides, little stinks! Thank goodness for patient grandparents that love them so much.

That night we had the girls dye eggs and we started getting ready for our trip home. The 2 weeks flew by and I couldn't even believe it!

On Monday morning Tori took us out to Lanikai Juice for one last acai bowl, or in my case hula bowl, which was heavenly pureed guava. Heaven. I will miss that breakfast. We finished packing up and we did one last beach session with everyone before we had to head to the airport. The day and water were perfection. Ellie cried her eyes out when I told her we were going home that night. We picked up one last Maui Mike's to go order, vacuumed 1000 pounds of sand out of our rental and we made it to the airport with 15 minutes to spare. It was a whirlwind day!

Jeremy and I were dreading the plane ride home but luckily we booked a red eye and the kids slept the whole way from Hawaii to Denver and then Denver to SLC. Hallelujah! We got home around 10 a.m. Tuesday morning. Poor Jeremy had to work a half day and the kids and I literally sat on the couch adjusting to the time for the rest of the afternoon. If I'm being totally honest, it was really the next 3 days. A 4 hour time difference is killer. So worth it though.

It was such a fun trip. Like I said, Ellie asks to go back every single day. It does make it better that Nana and Papa will be home for good. She can't quite wrap her brain around it but I'm sure it won't take long.

Aloha Oahu. You've been good to us.