100 Random Facts

1. I refuse to buy something new, if the old one still works... I still own my piece of trash $38 vacuum from when I was first married. I am impatiently waiting for it to break.
2. I love being a mom. Nothing is as hard, nor rewarding.
3. I sleep on a heating pad almost every night, it helps my back pain and I think I fall asleep faster when using it.
4. I can't stand it when things are not put in the right place.
5. I love rocking out to my ipod Shuffle while cleaning.
6. Nothing is better than a hot bubble bath with a good book.
7. I went skydiving in my younger, crazier days (and loved it).
8. Now that I am a mom, I could never image going skydiving again.
9. I am so thankful for the safety and health of my family.
10. I won first place in the Pillsbury Bake-Off as a kid... Who would have ever guessed that??
11. I teach preschool and love my little class and all of the fun stuff we do.
12. I changed my major several times in college: social work, fashion design, and elementary education.
13. I love learning new things and would love to go to medical school one day.
14. I really wish my house would stay clean for more than two seconds.
15. I am not a morning person.
16. I need my sleep, 8-9 hours at least.
17. I love books and want a nice library someday.
18. I almost always have a sewing project in the works.
19. I am a huge fan of giving homemade gifts.
20. I love organization and wish I could be more organized.
21. I am the oldest, two little sisters, one brother.
22. I went to four different elementary schools, four jr. highs, and two high schools.
23. One day soon, I would love a nice camera and learn how to take awesome pictures with it.
24. I am a nature person... camping, hiking, kayaking, or just relaxing on the beach.
25. Ryan and I love our shows: Project Runway, The Office, Prison Break, and Lost.
26. I always wanted a big family, but am quite certain now, that I don't have the patience it takes.
27. I love sushi at "Ra," the Tootsy Maki Roll is my favorite.
28. Cleaning the house should have an "easy button."
29. I detest being in the car and dealing with traffic. I wish I had a transporter, Star Trek style.
30. I hate cooking with raw meat.
31. I cannot eat meet off of a bone, it makes me gag just thinking about it.
32. I could be a vegetarian, if it didn't require so much effort. My sister is vegan and I respect her for that.
33. Migraines seem to torment me 1-3 times a week.
34. I have developed a migraine cocktail: 3 tablets Motrin, 2 tablets Tylenol, and 1/4 can of caffeinated soda. If taken early enough it seems to stop a migraine.
35. I always wanted to be a ballerina and have every intention of living my dreams out through my daughters.
36. I hate doing laundry... it is a daunting, never ending task.
37. I wish I was more into exercise and could find the time to do it.
38. I am done with contacts and glasses and really want Lasik Surgery.
39. I am an awful singer and don't dance very well either.
40. I've come to appreciate silence and if I am driving by myself, I sometimes keep the radio off and just enjoy the sound of nothing.
41. I think I have a super-human sense of smell. I am pretty sure that is a bad thing.
42. I go to the movie theater maybe once a year.
43. The computer has turned into a big distraction in my life, e-mail, blogging, digital scrapping, online shopping, etc.
44. I have incredibly dry skin.
45. I need to be a better prioritizer.
46. I don't understand meanness and do not tolerate it, ever.
47. My family is so important to me and I didn't know that my heart was able to contain so much love.
48. My husband is a great, responsible, understanding, and loving man.
49. Sometimes, my husband is my fourth child.
50. I enjoy gardening and love my fresh veggies and fruit.
51. I love my Savior, Jesus Christ.
52. I have a strong testimony, that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Days Saints is the gospel of Jesus Christ in it's fullest.
53. I wish I was more diligent.
54. I am grateful that I have the blessings of the temple and know that my family can be together forever.
55. I am grateful for the example my mother and father have set for me.
56. I wish I had more energy.
57. I wish my kids could share all of their extra energy with me.
58. Public speaking terrifies me.
59. Rainy, cloudy days are the best.
60. I have always wanted to go sailing, but have yet to embark on that adventure.
61. I love finding good deals.
62. I listen to a strange variety of music.
63. I am ashamed to admit it, but I love Martha Stewart.
64. I wish the TV played less of a role in our household.
65. I love reading to my children and wish I did it more often.
66. I love cuddling with my kids, but do not let them sleep in my bed.
67. I love watching my children learn and discover new things.
68. My grandma "Rain" has always been one of my favorite people.
69. Everything is better with cheese on it.
70. I love cooking and baking and trying new recipes.
71. I hate messing up my kitchen.
72. I love going to Disneyland with my kids and watching their faces light up every time.
73. I love holidays and family traditions.
74. I am a huge Jane Austin fan. Oh, and Mr. Darcy,too.
75. My friends are so uplifting and I love being with them and laughing with them.
76. I hope I am always able to remember what my kids were like when they were little.
77. I never watch daytime television.
78. I like to keep things simple.
79. My mom and dad are probably in better shape than me. (They are gym junkies).
80. I am a perfectionist and can tend to be a little too particular about certain things.
81. I love planning and preparing.
82. I wish I was more up to date on current events and politics.
83. I love dancing and being silly with my kids.
84. I wish our family lived closer. (And Kate, too.)
85. The smell of freshly washed sheets is divine.
86. I am the opposite of a pack-rat... I actually take pleasure in getting rid of things.
87. My toenails are always painted, my fingernails are never painted.
88. Pinkberry is so, so yummy. I am shamefully addicted.
89. I love watching musicals and plays. Ryan and I have a goal to see one a year.
90. I am a list maker... apparently.
91. I wear flip-flops 365 days a year.
92. I can't stand wasting electricity, water, or not recycling something that can be.
93. When I was little I wanted to be a scientist, astronaut and artist. Hmmm, I see to have sidetracked.
94. I would love to have a cat or a dog, but have no desire to clean up after one.
95. I love to dabble in things: jewelry making, decoupodge, cake decorating, quilting, etc.
96. My biggest claim to fame is winning the school geography bee in 1992.
97. One day I will have a fabulous, office/sewing/craft room.
98. I love farmer's markets.
99. I didn't care much for chocolate as a child, but as an adult, it has become a favorite indulgence of mine.
100. I love documenting my journey through life to preserve all of life's precious memories.

Seven Months Old

This had been a big month for Lyric. She is changing so much and learning new things every day. She is such a serious baby... but is always willing to share one of her sweet smiles. She has been busy figuring the four-leg -movement thing and is finally able to follow her siblings around. Tatum taught her how to clap on the way to Arizona and Lyric loves to show off and seems so proud of her little achievement.

Lyric Crawling

At seven months, Lyric has not only mastered the art of crawling and clapping, but also knows how to put a little boogie to it.

Little Lady Whistler

Not too long ago, Tatum decided that she wanted to learn how to whistle. She has been practicing over the last couple weeks with much determination... and I am proud to announce the she has mastered the skill. She whistles constantly throughout the day, displaying her new skill for everyone to see... and hopefully comment on.

Hands in the air!

A good friend of ours (Officer Gray) came to preschool for a little visit. The preschoolers were in awe over him. They learned all about police men and how to be safe. My favorite part was when he asked if they had any questions and they excitedly raised their hands. When called upon, they just had random comments to make, such as "my baby has little feet," and "I like to ride the Matterhorn." They thought he was pretty cool and enjoyed their "lick crime" lollipops.

My Real Age

So I took a suggestion from Martha, (Stewart, that is) and I went to RealAge.com to find out what my real age is (in accordance to health). Apparently I am only 24... yeah!! I thought I would be a lot higher. I feel like I am 40 these days. I loved the website... it gave me suggestions to improve my health and helped me set attainable goals. It is pretty quick and super informative... check it out if you get a chance. Here are my healthy goals:

• Get more calcium and vitamin D
• Do some muscle toning exercises a few times a week
• Get a fury friend??? (Not sure about that one yet)
• Drive a little slower
• Get in a little "me time" (well if it's doctor's orders, I'm sure I could fit a pedicure in once in a while)
  

Sounds easy- right? We'll see.

Heather's Pool

We have spent many blazing hot summer afternoons at Heather's Pool (as my kids call it). It was such a fun place, with a huge kiddie pool and a water playground. We have learned through experience that the kids have to wear socks in the pool so their feet don't get scraped raw. Thanks for sharing your pool Heather!

I really do think Crocs are great, but I have to admit that the only thing dorkier than Crocs, is Crocs with socks.
Okay, maybe Swimmies in combination with Crocs and socks tops the list.Lyric loves splashing in the fountains and gets so excited about it... she can't help but flail her arms and giggle.
Tatum loves her "twins," Kara and Kelli.

Homemade Pizza Night

We got together for a bring your own homemade pizza night sans any kids. It was fun having some mostly grown-up time (babies were part of the crew). There was so many delicious recipes. If you want to try some you can get the recipes at: polkadotapron.blogspot.com . Just as a side note... I know we seem like crazy party animals... but those really are just bottles of root beer. :)

First Day of Preschool 2008

A couple of weeks late... Tatum started her second year of preschool, Davis started his first year as part-time preschool participant and Lyric is wearing Tatum's old backpack, whether she likes it or not... Tatum insisted. Davis is very proud of his Spiderman backpack and Tatum has been anxious for preschool to resume all summer. We look forward to a great year!

Super Duper Pooper

Sorry to blog about poop. Yes it's disgusting, however it seems to play a really big role in my life at the moment. Yesterday at church Lyric had the explosion of all explosions. I was holding her in the hallway chatting, when an onlooker asked if I knew that I had poop running down my arm. (Of course I do... it is suppose to be there.) So, we rush off to the bathroom to clean up, until I realize that I already used the two diapers that I had packed. I sneak back into the hallway, poopy baby in tow, find my husband, send him out to the car to grab a spare, and rush back into the bathroom. While trying to clean up, Tatum pops her head in and informs me, that daddy can't find a diaper. Frustrated, I wrap up naked Lyric in paper towels and try to sneak out to the car. Of course, everyone stops to talk, and then needs an explanation. While heading out to the car, Lyric decides to pee... Tatum and I were the target. We manage to get to the car, find a diaper and rush home. Baths for all!

Little Seeds Preschool

So, this is what we have been super busy with the last few weeks. I was inspired by my friend Jenny to give my preschool a little make-over. We had fun painting the walls crazy-bold colors and creating little centers. I also came up with my own curriculum based on several internet resources and using bits and pieces of curriculum units I have purchased in the past. It was a lot of work, but I feel like the end product is great (fourth time's a charm, I guess). Preschool started last week and has been a lot of fun. I can't wait for all of the exciting things that are coming up during the year!

Crib Stander

The other morning Tatum ran into our room yelling, "Lyric woke me up and she is standing in her crib!" Not completely believing, we checked it out and sure enough, Lyric was standing up in her crib. She was so proud of herself, donning a huge, adorable (slightly smug) smile.

Soccer Shooting Star

Tatum is on the 4-5 year old soccer team "The Shooting Stars." They had their first official game on Saturday. She is so cute running around with the other girls. It cracks me up watching how many times the girls trip over each other and start wrestling their own teammate for the ball. We are so proud of Tatum... she scored her first goal!!! She is our little shooting star!

Sticky Hands

I had an interesting conversation with Davis the other day...

Me: Davis your hands are all sticky. Go and wash them.

Davis: They are suppose to be sticky.

Me: Oh, really. Why are they suppose to be sticky.

Davis: Because.

Me: Because Why?

Davis: Because, I am Spiderman.

Me: And Spiderman has sticky hands???

Davis: Yes. So I can climb the walls! (Wiping peanut butter hands on the wall).

Lesson learned: Don't ask Spiderman how he sticks to walls.

Domestic Divas

I was ambitious and purchased two big boxes of fruit one peach and one plum... not sure exactly what I was going to do with them. I asked Marcie for help and she she spent the afternoon showing us how to can fruit, make jam, make freezer pies, baby food and other fun fruit-filled activities. We completely demolished her kitchen, but had a blast discovering our inner domestic divas.

Six Months Old!

I just have to preface this by saying, that for her second professional photo shoot, Lyric is yet again, naked. This was not my initial intention (Ryan is personally not too keen on the whole naked baby thing). I had a freshly pressed pink polka-dotted dress and Lyric looked adorable in it, but wouldn't smile. Finally, after her dress was soaked with spit-up and slobber, I undressed her and she became all smiles. So apparently she is a little free-spirited and I have to admit that (in my opinion) she does happen to have one of the cutest little bums around!
This last month has been a busy one for Lyric. She has mastered sitting, gotten two precious teeth, has added the word dadadadada to her vocabulary, loves to play peek-a-boo and has been intently trying to crawl. Six months has flown by, and we have been loving watching her little personality develop.

Visits from Grr and Papa

My parents came down for a little visit and to babysit our kids while we went to see Brian Reagan. Davis and Tatum provided them with a constant supply of book reading requests, and as Tatum puts gleefully puts it, "Grr reads me the really long books and she reads all the pages and says all the words." (I guess when it comes to the obnoxious Disney novel-length picture books, I am not as sneaky as I thought.) Lyric ate-up all of the extra attention and became quite attached to my mom. Davis loved going on walks with Papa and entertaining him with his cool moves and tricks. We really enjoyed having them here and we were all sad to see them go. While my parents were here we enjoyed a perfect Californian summer evening outside at a Dos Lagos, a park near our house.

Chocolate Bundt Cake

I bought a chocolate bundt cake from Costco, after the kids had gone to bed. I woke up the next morning to Davis' excited squeals. He came in and told me that he wanted some "chocolate fudge bundt cake for breakfast." I have never made or purchased bundt cake, so I am not sure where my two-year-old picked that one up. I don't know who else to credit but the Food Network???

Brian Reagan

We just went with our friends, the Cook's, to see Brian Reagan (our favorite comedian). We laughed our heads off and went home with sore cheek muscles. Here is one of our favorite jokes:

Doheny Beach Camping

We spent a long weekend camping on Doheny Beach with our friends from AZ, the Carter's. Lots of dirty, sandy fun!

Our first family picture with everyone smiling!!! Enjoy it, it may never happen again.
Reason to never leave a watermelon unattended while Davis is in the vicinity:
Daddies at work, building a "sand fortress"
Finished fortress:

Tatum and Nathan spent countless hours chasing waves together.
The kiddos deeply engaged in Watermelon consumption...
Davis had so much fun being silly with his reunited friend Jacob.
Tatum and Lyric, basking in the sun.